In this special episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by Gigi Sohn, Executive Director of the American Association for Public Broadband (AAPB). Originally aired last summer, they discuss the crucial role of state and local governments in broadband policy, efforts to grow community broadband networks across the U.S., and the ongoing challenges these networks face from incumbents and dark money groups.

Gigi also shares insights into her work with Benton, where she helps build coalitions in Missouri, Arizona, and Pennsylvania to ensure effective use of broadband funding. Additionally, the conversation highlights AAPB’s mission to double the number of municipal broadband networks in five years and the importance of defending these networks from attacks like those in Bountiful, Utah.

This show is 47 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by colleagues Sean Gonsalves, Ry Marcattilio, and Jessica Auer to discuss several key topics in the world of broadband. The conversation begins with Jessica’s firsthand account of the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina, highlighting the region’s communication challenges during and after the storm. The team delves into the critical importance of resilient telecommunications infrastructure in the face of natural disasters.

Later in the episode, Christopher, Sean, and Ry discuss the political controversy surrounding the FCC’s decision to deny Starlink's bid for Federal Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) support, analyzing whether the decision was influenced by political bias. They explore how this case fits into the broader debate about satellite Internet's role in rural broadband access.

Finally, the team shares updates on key broadband initiatives, including a project in South Central Los Angeles and Vermont’s workforce development programs aimed at training the next generation of fiber technicians. This episode provides listeners with a broad overview of community broadband efforts across the United States, offering insights into the challenges and successes of bringing high-speed Internet to underserved areas.

This show is 35 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by Professor Alfred Yen from Boston College Law School to discuss a pivotal case involving Cox Communications and copyright infringement. 

The conversation centers on whether Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should be held responsible when their subscribers engage in illegal downloading of music.

They explore the complex legal questions surrounding ISP liability, the potential consequences for smaller ISPs, and how this could reshape the relationship between copyright holders and service providers. 

Professor Yen provides insight into the impact this case could have on Internet users and ISPs, especially as the music industry seeks to make ISPs financially accountable for their subscribers' actions.

The episode also touches on broader concerns about how cutting off Internet access could affect critical services like healthcare and business operations, making this a pressing issue with far-reaching implications.

This show is 33 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris is joined by colleagues Ry Marcattilio and Jessica Auer to discuss the latest developments in broadband policy. The team delves into the BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program, highlighting recent blueprints that offer insights into low-cost plan requirements for ISPs, state-driven policies, and the challenges of implementing affordable broadband solutions across diverse communities.

Jess shares her work on tribal broadband networks, providing updates on the significant progress made by Native American tribes in establishing and operating their own networks. The conversation also touches on the complexities of rate regulation, the varying approaches states have taken to low-cost plans, and the implications for rural and tribal communities.

Tune in to hear about innovative approaches, including open-access networks, and a growing focus on equitable internet access for underserved communities. 

This show is 31 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down once again with Chad Crager, Executive Director of Fort Collins Connexion, to discuss the city's progress in developing a sustainable municipal broadband network. Chad shares exciting updates, including reaching 21,000 subscribers and serving 80,000 premises, while highlighting the city's innovative approach to broadband, such as leveraging underground power infrastructure and implementing dig-once policies.

Chad also emphasizes Fort Collins' commitment to digital equity, explaining efforts to serve mobile home parks, the challenges of wiring such communities, and the introduction of Spanish-speaking staff to reach underserved populations. The discussion touches on the city's long-term sustainability plans, business model, and collaboration with local government, ensuring that Fort Collins Connexion remains financially resilient while fostering digital inclusion for all residents.

Tune in for an insightful look at how Fort Collins is balancing competition with incumbents, expanding broadband access, and setting an example for other cities looking to invest in community broadband.

This show is 30 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

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Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Sean discuss various broadband initiatives and community networks across the United States. The conversation kicks off with updates on California’s Fiber Fund Account and the inclusion of Tribal Communities in broadband projects. 

They both highlight the Paul Bunyan Cooperative’s innovative approach to broadband, including Capital Credit distributions to its members and its impact on local communities. They also explore the potential challenges of spending remaining Federal Rescue Plan Funds before key deadlines and the importance of investing in broadband infrastructure. 

Finally, the episode delves into Harrison County’s partnership with Etex Communications and the release of ILSR’s updated Community Networks Map, which tracks municipal and cooperative broadband projects nationwide. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of community broadband and the exciting possibilities it offers.

This show is 34 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Monique Tate and Raul Enriquez, co-directors of Community Tech New York (CTNY), to explore how grassroots efforts are transforming digital equity. CTNY is dedicated to creating community-centered solutions for digital justice, with a focus on engaging and empowering local residents.

Monique and Raul discuss the origins and evolution of CTNY, emphasizing their commitment to breaking down the barriers of technology through hands-on training and education. A key highlight of the conversation is the Portable Network Kit (PNK), a versatile tool designed to help communities build their own local networks. They delve into how the PNK serves as both an educational resource and a practical solution for emergency preparedness, allowing communities to maintain connectivity even in times of crisis.

Throughout the episode, they also touch on the broader implications of digital inclusion, from preserving cultural legacies to fostering economic and political empowerment. Whether it's using technology to archive community histories or ensuring that neighborhoods have the tools they need to stay connected during disasters, CTNY is at the forefront of building resilient, informed, and connected communities.

This show is 40 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris sits down with Christy Batts, Chief Broadband Officer at CDE Lightband, and Amanda Cherry, Customer Experience Supervisor, to explore the exciting developments in Clarksville's municipal broadband network. They discuss the town's transition from Active Ethernet to XGS-PON, a significant upgrade that promises multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds and increased efficiency. 

Christy and Amanda share insights into the challenges of upgrading 30,000 customers while maintaining high service standards and the ongoing efforts to future-proof Clarksville's network. They also delve into the unique aspects of operating in a military town, the importance of underground infrastructure in new developments, and the innovative use of AI for customer service training. 

Tune in to learn how Clarksville is setting a new standard for municipal broadband and ensuring a robust, reliable service for years to come.

This show is 32 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the podcast, Chris speaks with Stephanie Becken, the Broadband Manager for the City of Superior, Wisconsin. Stephanie shares her journey from moving to Superior to becoming a key figure in the Connect Superior initiative, a project aimed at improving broadband access in the city and surrounding areas.

They discuss the unique qualities of Superior, a city of 26,000 people located on the shores of Lake Superior, and the challenges and opportunities that come with expanding broadband in a region with such a large footprint. Stephanie explains the phased approach to building an open access fiber network, the city's recent formation of a broadband utility, and the collaboration with local and regional service providers.

The conversation also touches on the importance of connectivity for local businesses, residents, and essential services, and the excitement surrounding the initial phase of fiber installation. Stephanie expresses her enthusiasm for the project's potential to transform the community and looks forward to a future where reliable, high-quality internet is the norm for all Superior residents.

Tune in to hear more about this inspiring local initiative and the drive to bring top-notch connectivity to the people of Superior.

This show is 24 minutes long and can be played on this page or via Apple Podcasts or the tool of your choice using this feed.

Transcript below.

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes or view all episodes in our index. See other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.

Thanks to Arne Huseby for the music. The song is Warm Duck Shuffle and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license

In this episode of the Building for Digital Equity Podcast, Jordan Pittman sits down with Dana Northcraft, Natalie Birnbaum, and Emily Schacter from RHITES, the Reproductive Health Initiative for Telehealth Equity and Solutions. The conversation dives deep into RHITES' mission to integrate reproductive healthcare into the larger telehealth ecosystem, addressing critical issues of equity and access.

They discusses the increasing need for telehealth in maternity and reproductive healthcare deserts, emphasizing the importance of expanded broadband access. They also touch on the intersectional barriers to telehealth, such as language access and affordability, and the importance of digital equity in ensuring effective telehealth services. The team shares insights on how telehealth not only provides essential healthcare but also significantly reduces costs, citing a report that showed substantial savings in emergency visits in rural areas.

The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to get involved with RHITES, whether through advocacy, collaboration, or educational resources. Dana, Natalie, and Emily encourage the audience to view broadband access as a human right and a critical utility, essential for achieving equitable healthcare outcomes.

This show is 18 minutes long and can be played on this page or using the podcast app of your choice with this feed.

Transcript below. 

We want your feedback and suggestions for the show-please e-mail us or leave a comment below.

Listen to other episodes here or see other podcasts from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance here.

Thanks to Joseph McDade for the music. The song is On the Verge and is used per his Free-Use terms.