The FCC is one of the most pivotal federal agency in terms of implementing national policies and funding programs that impact broadband deployments and adoption. But do communities maximize the potential to influence these policies and programs, or are the challenges too great?

Sharon Gillett knows FCC procedures from the inside out, and shares this valuable expertise to help listeners develop strategies for navigating the challenges. As the former Chief of the FCC's Wireline Competition Bureau, she herded major agency reforms through DC.'s political and bureaucratic mazes.

This interview summarizes:

some of the FCC major activities affecting broadband that communities can participate in and/or influence; the typical process for moving from policy ideas to actual programs; how to work the public comment period; and ways in which communities and small or regional ISPs and telcos may partner to influence the FCC policy and programs.

For more FCC-related commentary, check out this writeup of my conversation Monday with FCC Chairman Genachowski.