Unbuffered

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 revisit predictions, debate key issues, and share insights on what’s next for community broadband

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, workforce training programs, and innovative strategies to bridge the digital divide while ensuring affordability for underserved communities. 

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. They explore how deregulation shaped today’s Internet landscape and discuss the ongoing fight for affordable, equitable access.

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 unique public-private model is connecting communities, overcoming challenges, and paving the way for universal, high-speed Internet.

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% take rate, saved residents millions annually, and launched digital equity initiatives that include free laptops and digital literacy training.

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 broadband policy. They explore the implications for universal broadband access, including the challenges around funding, school bus Wi-Fi, and net neutrality regulations.

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 community-driven solutions. Discover how this fast-growing Illinois county is balancing urban and rural needs with sustainable infrastructure planning and state-supported funding.

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 pricing transparency. Tune in to hear how these issues affect affordability and why consumer-focused broadband policies matter more than ever.

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 community broadband. They dive into efforts to expand local networks, the challenges posed by incumbents, and the pivotal role of state and local governments in shaping broadband policy.

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 decision on Starlink’s rural broadband funding. Plus, they highlight new broadband initiatives in South Central LA and Vermont’s Fiber Technician Training Program.