Community Broadband Bits

Apr 16 2025 666 ep. 29 mins 679
Community Broadband Bits Podcast artwork

Short interviews with people doing interesting things to expand broadband networks that put community needs first.

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Broadband Bottlenecks and Bureaucracy: What’s Holding the Internet Back? - Episode 642 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Apr 16 2025 41 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sascha Meinrath dig into what's gone wrong with federal programs like BEAD and digital equity grants, and what it means for the future of Internet access. ★ Support this podcast ★

Tribal Broadband Bootcamps in Action - Episode 641 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Apr 01 2025 37 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Matt Rantanen shares how Tribal Broadband Bootcamps are equipping Indigenous leaders with the technical skills and policy know-how to build and sustain their own networks. Tune in to learn how these hands-on trainings are closing the digital divide in Indian Country. ★ Support this podcast ★

Rethinking the Internet with Bob Frankston - Episode 640 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Mar 18 2025 47 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by Bob Frankston to challenge the traditional telecom model and explore why Internet access should be treated like a public utility. He explains how shifting to a community-owned model could unlock innovation and make connectivity more resilient. ★ Support this podcast ★

Future-Proofing Texas Schools with Better Internet Infrastructure- Episode 639 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Mar 11 2025 25 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Michael Keough from Region 16 Education Service Center shares how they’re upgrading Internet infrastructure for 60 Texas school districts. He explains how a new 10 Gig ring network and edge data centers will improve reliability, drive competition, and support future technologies. ★ Support this podcast ★

BEAD’s Next Steps: Unpacking State Progress and Challenges - Episode 638 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Mar 04 2025 33 mins  
States are moving forward with BEAD funding, but uncertainty looms over potential changes to the program. In this episode of the podcast, Heather Mills joins to break down what’s happening, what’s at stake, and what communities need to know. Tune in for key insights on the future of broadband expansion. ★ Support this podcast ★

Independent Agencies Under Threat: Gigi Sohn on FCC’s Future - Episode 637 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Feb 25 2025 26 mins  
Is the independence of agencies like the FCC under threat? What does that mean for broadband policy and the future of communications? In this episode, Gigi Sohn joins Chris to break down the latest power struggles, what’s at stake, and why it matters for everyone. Tune in for a critical conversation on the intersection of policy, politics, and broadband access. ★ Support this

The Potential of Fiber: Smart Cities, BEAD, and Municipal Broadband Financing - Episode 636 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Feb 18 2025 27 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean explore the unexpected potential of fiber optic sensing, the latest on BEAD funding, and details on an upcoming webinar with Gigi Sohn on financing municipal broadband projects! ★ Support this podcast ★

Consider Affordable Broadband State-By-State - Episode 635 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Feb 11 2025 35 mins  
In this special episode of the podcast, we revisit our live forum called "Consider Affordable Broadband State by State" to explore how New York’s Affordable Broadband Act is setting a precedent, what other states are doing, and why this fight matters for digital equity nationwide. ★ Support this podcast ★

No Shareholders, Just Service: Sherwood, Oregon’s Community Broadband Success - Episode 634 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Feb 04 2025 22 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Mayor Tim Rosener and IT Director Brad Crawford share how Sherwood, Oregon built its own fiber network, expanded into rural areas, and kept prices low—all while ensuring top-notch service. Tune in to hear how local leadership is making fast, reliable Internet a reality! ★ Support this podcast ★

Championing Community Broadband in Montana with Representative Kelly Kortum - Episode 633 of the Community Broadband Bits Podcast

Jan 28 2025 16 mins  
In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Representative Kelly Kortum of Montana to discuss his fight to repeal laws blocking municipal broadband and expand access to rural communities. Drawing on his personal journey with limited Internet, Kortum highlights the challenges posed by outdated legislation and the critical role of cooperatives and nonprofits in bridging the