Episode 442: Real Talk on Rural Broadband with Dr. Christopher Ali

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine sits down with Dr. Christopher Ali, the Pioneers Chair in Telecommunications and Associate Professor at Penn State’s Bellisario College of Communications. Recorded live at the CBAN Spring Summit, the conversation explores the evolving landscape of broadband policy and BEAD funding. Dr. Ali offers a grounded perspective on what it will truly take to close the digital divide, emphasizing the need for realistic timelines, long-term infrastructure planning, and a balanced approach that integrates both fiber and wireless technologies. He discusses the vital role of middle-mile infrastructure, particularly the untapped potential of electric cooperatives to deliver broadband to underserved communities. The episode also touches on the importance of digital literacy, affordability, and the dangers of sunset clauses that can undermine ongoing connectivity. Dr. Ali shares insights into his upcoming “Broadband Stories” project, which aims to highlight the human impact of broadband through real-world narratives.