Ep 7. Wired Philly

In season 3 episode 7 of This is Life with Lisa Ling, titled "Wired Philly," journalist Lisa Ling travels to Philadelphia to explore the city's unique approach to internet connectivity.

Ling starts her journey by learning about Project HomeNet, a non-profit organization that provides low-income families with free internet access. She speaks with members of the organization and the families they serve to understand how the internet has become an essential part of daily life, from accessing healthcare and job opportunities to staying connected with loved ones.

Next, Ling visits a high school where students are learning to code and create their own websites. She speaks with teachers and students about the importance of digital literacy and the role that technology plays in shaping the future of education and career opportunities.

Ling also explores the city's growing entrepreneurial tech scene, meeting with start-up founders and venture capitalists to learn about the challenges and opportunities in building a tech company in Philadelphia. She visits a co-working space, where she meets with a diverse group of entrepreneurs who are building everything from virtual reality applications to e-commerce platforms.

Throughout the episode, Ling examines the digital divide in Philadelphia and other cities across the United States, and the efforts being made to bridge the gap. She speaks with community leaders and politicians who are working to bring high-speed internet access to underserved communities, and learns about innovative initiatives like the Digital Literacy Alliance, which aims to provide all residents with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Overall, "Wired Philly" offers a fascinating look at the intersection of technology, education, and community development, and the ways in which digital connectivity is shaping the city of Philadelphia and beyond.