Community Broadband Bits

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…

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 p…

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 muni…

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…

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 ensuri…

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. Dr…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and the CBN team dive into bold predictions about BEAD funding, affordability programs, and the growing role of satellite providers. Hear how state policies, fed…

In this episode of the podcast, Blair Levin joins Chris to discuss the 2025’s biggest broadband challenges and opportunities. From the expiration of the Affordable Connectivity Program to shifts in m…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with PJ Armstrong, General Manager of MINET, about expanding reliable Internet in Oregon. Discover how MINET is tackling broadband challenges, from innovat…

In this first episode of the new year, Chris and John Farrell delve into the parallels between broadband and electricity, exploring the challenges of monopolies, the power of local solutions, and the…

In this year-end episode, the team reflects on 2024’s biggest broadband moments—from BEAD delays and ACP’s collapse to Vermont’s bold community-driven efforts. Join Chris and the CBN crew as they rev…

In this episode of the podcast, we explore how NEK Broadband is transforming connectivity in Vermont’s rural Northeast Kingdom. Executive Director Christa Shute shares insights on their recent merger…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with Gene Kimmelman about the historical roots of telecommunications policy, including the 1992 Cable Act and the rise of broadband as an essential service…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris chats with Steven John of DV Fiber to explore how Vermont’s Communications Union Districts are transforming broadband access in rural areas. Learn how this uniqu…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris checks in with Jose Pena, IT Director for the City of Pharr, Texas, to explore their groundbreaking municipal fiber network. Discover how Pharr has achieved a 50…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Andy Schwartzman from the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society to discuss how recent U.S. Court rulings are reshaping FCC authority and broadb…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris talks with Christina Burns and Zach Bachmann about Kendall County’s innovative project to expand Internet access through public-private partnerships and communit…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Karl Bode dive into the challenges of rural broadband, exploring why Starlink isn’t a cure-all, the impact of broadband caps, and the FCC’s push for greater …

In this special episode of the podcast, we revisit a conversation between Chris and Gigi Sohn, Executive Director of the American Association for Public Broadband, discussing the growing movement for…

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and the CBN team discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, the importance of resilient infrastructure, and the controversy surrounding the FCC’s …