Podcasts about nc beer

Rep. Ray Jeffers talks about the deep roots that ground his politics and public service, including stories from his upbringing on his family's 106-year-old farm by his mother and grandparents.   The Person County Democrat reflects on the lessons they passed down, his early love of training dogs, and how those rural experiences continue to shape his perspective in the General Assembly.  Skye and Brian also give a preview of the House budget from subcommittees, Democrats hold a funeral for their bills, raw milk debates gets dangerous, #TOTW, and more.  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Congressman Addison McDowell takes listeners behind the scenes of his 2023 decision to jump in the 2024 race for Congress in the 6th district, the bruising 2024 primary that came with it, and how he won the early endorsement of President Trump.   Skye and Brian also break down a hectic crossover week at the NC General Assembly, major news in the NC Supreme Court race, NC State Board of Election transitions, #TOTW, and Skye talks about her recent stint as a grooms-woman.  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Beth Helfrich shares her deep roots in Davidson as a third-generation resident, a former teacher, and owner of a successful coffee shop with her husband Tim and family.   The freshman Mecklenburg County Democrat also talks about raising five kids, what led her to run for the House in 2024 in a swing district, and her commute to Raleigh on the train.  Plus, Skye and Brian are joined by New Frame intern Claudia Vial to talk crossover, House getting to work on the budget, a perennial budget rumor, a floor debate in the House over DEI, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.    

In this special episode, Skye and Brian sit down with Reagan Perry, daughter of former North Carolina State Senator Jim Perry, for a heartfelt conversation. Reagan opens up about the life-altering experience of losing her leg, the physical and emotional challenges she's faced, and how she turned her pain into purpose through Reagan's Law (HB906), a bipartisan effort to improve care and support for future amputees in North Carolina. This conversation is about the power of resilience, the impact of family legacy, and how one young woman's voice is shaping policy and hope for countless others who are striving to live full and active lives.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Jimmy Dixon makes his third podcast appearance (his last one was 2023) to reflect on Easter and his Mormon faith, which includes membership and local leadership roles in the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.   The 8-term Duplin County Republican opens up about his conversion to LDS in 1976, the differences from the Methodist church he grew up in, and what Easter means to him.   Skye and Brian break down details and drama as the Senate budget was unveiled, debated, and approved with twists and turns.  Meanwhile the House debate gets hot in the absence of Speaker Hall as he and his wife welcome a son. And we get somber news from Rep. Mike Clampitt.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Caleb Theodros began his life in Eritrea, a country in East Africa torn apart by civil conflict in the 1990s.  At age five, his family brought him to the United States in search of a better life.  After a brief stay in Las Vegas, the Theodros family relocated to Charlotte where they created a life for themselves.   20 years later, Sen Theodros earned a degree from UNC Charlotte, worked in banking, managed local campaigns, and successfully ran in 2024 for a NC Senate seat that required he survive a brutal Democratic primary that included spying and car trackers.  Skye and Brian also break down the House bill filing deadline, action in the Senate as they prepare a budget for next week, US Senate candidate announces, DPB Bracket Challenge winner, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Over the last 90 days, the State Auditor position has transformed from a state agency that released audits for various NC departments, agencies, local governments, and non-profits to a department that is working proactively in concert with the General Assembly to hold the entire NC executive branch accountable.   At the helm, is Auditor Dave Boliek, who won the position in November after surviving a bruising primary that resulted in a summer runoff.   The Republican Auditor opens up about his political party affiliation (he was once a Democrat), his vision for the department, and his take on Tarheel politics.   Skye and Brian also break down the Senate Regulatory Reform Committee's inaugural meeting, House Rules approved, a new Senate Majority Leader, a Senate budget update, #TOTW, pollen, and mens' fashion choices inside the General Assembly.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Earlier this session, the General Assembly lost Rep. Joe John to cancer at 85.  Rep. John would be proud of his Democratic replacement, who is an attorney, policy wonk, and one to debate the intricacies of the law without making it personal.   Meet the newly appointed freshman legislator from Wake County:  Rep. Phil Rubin, who was a federal prosecutor, a Special NC Deputy Attorney General, and a policy director for Meta.   Skye and Brian also talk about an epic week at the General Assembly:  Senate Majority Leader Paul Newton resigns, hundreds of Senate bills filed, #TOTW, and more.    The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Reps. Charlie Miller (R-Brunswick) and Reece Pyrtle (R-Rockingham) share a legislative office suite, many committee assignments, and a bond built around their former careers as law enforcement officers in their communities.   The former chief deputy (Miller) and police chief (Pyrtle) talk about their first encounter, their friendship, and how their relationship to their respective Senate colleagues gives them a unique insight into the state's bicameral system of government.   Skye and Brian discuss Governor Josh Stein's budget proposal to the General Assembly, a bipartisan Helene package agreement is reached, a pair of controversial gun bills on the move, tobacco and vaping bills filed, NC State has a new chancellor, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

When Rep. Bryan Cohn decided to challenge an incumbent in 2024, he executed a plan that was based on old school politics combined with new tech tools.  By the time election night rolled in, he knew he was in an excellent position to win the seat.  The Oxford Democrat also talks about the uniqueness of his swing district, including a violent civil rights history documented in the book/movie Blood Done Sign My Name.    Skye and Brian also break down Governor Stein's State of the State Address, the Speaker's response, action on key bills in the General Assembly, #TOTW, and more. The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

As a financial controller, Rep. Jonathan Almond is familiar with sifting through data, studies, and spreadsheets to look for answers.  It's what he did when COVID shut down the world, when his twin boys were diagnosed with autism, and it's what he plans to do as a Cabarrus County legislator.   However, the 38-year old Republican is not just about the numbers.  He's felt anguish for his twin boys, he's grieved, and he's been broken.  Rep. Almond talks candidly about the transformation he continues to make through faith, family, and friends, and how that journey led him to the General Assembly.   Plus, Skye and Brian talk about the Senate Helene package, an alphabet soup of bills (ICE, DEI and AG) on the move, a parliamentary question, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Spend enough time with Rep. Dante Pittman, the 28-year old legislator representing Wilson and part of Nash Counties, and it's evident the freshman legislator is a throwback Democrat.   The National Guard captain describes himself as pro business, pro public education, and pro health care.  He also believes in the power of family, including a single mother who raised him and his brother, and loving grandparents who played a pivotal role in his life.   Plus, Skye and I talk about the House Helene bill, a DMV resignation, pair of controversial Senate bills, competing mobile phone bills, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Heather Rhyne started her official freshman term this year after getting a head start in the House last summer when former Rep. Jason Saine resigned his seat to enter the private sector.   The Lincoln County Republican started her political career on her county's local school board and brings a focus to the General Assembly that is focused on supporting all facets of education and health care.  As a pharmacist, she's got ideas based on her career experience.   Plus, winter weather is hitting much of the state, an announced primary challenger to the state's most powerful political leader, North Carolina's preliminary fiscal forecast released, limited action in the General Assembly this week, #TOTW, and DOGE suggestions for NC.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Tracy Clark has a list "whys" on her decision to serve in the General Assembly.  Two of the three issues that motivated the Guilford County freshman Democrat are the most divisive in politics, but she's optimistic that she can find middle ground, especially with those in her freshman class.   Also, the House drops a Helene package a week after Governor Stein proposes his. Next up is the Senate and hopefully Congress.  An unsubstantiated rumor circulates, celebrating a NC Supreme Court decision, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

There's a good chance you wore a garment of clothing this week that is older than the 22-year old freshman legislator from Onslow County.   Rep. Wyatt Gable visits with Skye and Brian to talk about his improbable political journey to the General Assembly that began in a college economics class a couple years back. Now the eastern NC Republican is a senior in college and stepping into the 2025-2026 biennium ready to get to work for his constituents while serving as an inspiration to a new generation of voters and future office holders.   Plus, former Lt. Governor withdraws lawsuit, Helene spending plans, a Senate gun bill, Cooper v Tillis news drip, #TOTW, class photos, Super Bowl, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Sen. Woodson Bradley is a sexual assault survivor and in this powerful podcast conversation with Skye and Brian she talks about a dark and painful time in her life that led her to this moment as a freshman state senator advocating for change.   The Mecklenburg County Democrat also self-describes as a moderate who campaigned on a pro-law enforcement, pro-business, and pro-public education platform.   The General Assembly gets to work as a House schedule and full committee assignments are released, bill filing begins, a new House member seated, an unsubstantiated rumor surrounding Sen. Danny Earl Britt, a pair of disaster relief hearings, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Grant Campbell was raised by a single mother under very challenging circumstances in rural Lee and Harnett Counties.  The experience shaped every aspect of his life, including his decision to attend UNC (undergrad and medical school), become an OB/GYN, join the military, pen a novel, and serve in the General Assembly.   The freshman Republican representing part of Cabarrus County opens up about his life, including his work, family, and unique approach to politics and policymaking.   Plus, Skye and Brian discuss Governor Stein's executive order, Attorney General news, House committee chair assignments, Rep. Joe John dies, #TOTW, and a big week in NC for snow.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

In part 2 of the podcast's Meet the Freshmen series, Skye and Brian sit down with Rep. Mike Schietzelt, who won a hard-fought swing election in November.   The Wake County Republican talks about growing up without means, his love of music and the law, and ultimately his faith-based decision to run for the House.   Plus, Senate committee assignments, staff announcements, a veteran TV journalist transitions, Sen. Tillis gets a GOP challenger, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Monika Johnson-Hostler is a freshman legislator, but she's no stranger to the General Assembly as she's been working in and around the building since 1999, when she started her career at the NC Coalition Against Sexual Assault, which is represented by New Frame.   The Wake County Democrat talks about her advocacy work, her service on the Wake County School Board, and her decision to run for the NC House when Rep. Rosa Gill announced her retirement.   Plus, a New Year ushers in a new legislative session, a new Governor and Council of State, and a new House Speaker.  Skye and Brian unpack it all and talk about their predictions for the coming year.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Senators Todd Johnson and Jay Chaudhuri join Skye and Brian to wrap up 2024, including key legislation, twists and turns, and a topsy-turvy election as a backdrop. The Republican and Democratic lawmakers also talk about their family Christmas traditions.  The podcast also runs down the news from this past week, #TOTW, holiday gifts, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

There was a time before 2010 in which conservative Democrats ran NC politics, including the General Assembly and much of its leadership team.  And behind the campaign curtain of the 'Crone Caucus' was campaign consultant Brad Crone.  The Johnston County native talks about his career in politics, the partisan realignment in NC, and an assessment of where Democrats are today in the aftermath of the 2024 election.    Skye and Brian also break down the House veto session, constitutional amendments, the NC State Board of Election hearing, Dan Bishop's nomination, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Tim Kent was a journalist, lobbyist, association leader, and a friend to all who knew him, worked with him, and even opposed him on legislation at the General Assembly.  But many have no idea that Tim's legendary kindness and charity towards others was the byproduct of a man who was broken in 2010.   Stephen Kent (DPB guest in 2021) was Tim's oldest son and he sits down with Skye and Brian to talk about his father's life, the "wilderness" Tim found himself in 15 years ago, and how it changed the way Tim lived his life, loved those around him, and was always one to reach out when people needed a kind word.   The podcast also unpacks the Senate session on Monday, Senate Democrats elect a new leader, a House rumor, the election that will not end, #TOTW, cults, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Brenden Jones is the new House Majority Leader in 2025-2026 and ascends to the role as Rep. Destin Hall, Jones' friend and roommate, will be Speaker of the House.   The four-term veteran lawmaker from Columbus County opens up about the House's new leadership team, their plans for the biennium, including building bridges with the Senate leadership and House Democrats.   Skye and Brian also break down a volatile special session this week, Republicans elect leadership teams in House and Senate, #TOTW, Thanksgiving, and remembering Tim Kent.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Most of the NC politics world knows Dr. Jeff Warren as Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger's first science advisor starting in 2011 before he began work at the NC Collaboratory in 2017.   Dr. Warren talks about is policy work for Sen. Berger, his career at what is now the NC Department of Environmental Quality before working in the Senate, the creation of the NC Collaboratory in 2016, teaching science policy at UNC, and how he squares politics, science, and religion.   Plus, Skye and Brian talk about a pair of outstanding Senate and Supreme Court races still counting ballots, big campaign donors, the General Assembly's lame-duck session, House leadership elections, former Labor Commish Josh Dobson's new gig, gubernatorial transition team, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Skye and Brian go through the 2024 election results, including the race for NC's 16 Electoral College votes, U.S. Congress, Governor and Council of State, the General Assembly, the NC courts, and more.   They also talk about the possible power dynamic between a new Democratic governor and his former colleagues in the General Assembly.   Plus #TOTW, holiday decorations, and what to do now that the election is over.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Congressman Patrick McHenry is wrapping up a storied 20-year career in the U.S. Congress this December.  The Republican from the 10th District talks to Brian about his time in Congress, including the nearly three weeks in 2023 he spent as the Speaker of the House, as well as his first elected position as a state legislator in the General Assembly in 2003-2004.   Skye and Brian also talk about strong early voting numbers, campaign finance reports, final polling, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Jake Johnson is Western North Carolina to his core.  Born and raised in rural Polk County, he knows just about everyone in his close-knit district spanning over Rutherford, McDowell, Henderson, and his home county. The 30-year old Republican talks about his public service, including his important position as co-chair of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, also called Gov-Ops for short.   However, the conversation isn't all business as Skye and Brian discover Rep. Johnson has a love for (almost) all things James Bond, and he has family ties to moonshine, racing, and coon dogs.   Plus, NC is inside two weeks of Election Day, early voting numbers are coming in strong, Mark Robinson amends his lawsuit, #TOTW, Skye's appearance on State Lines gets unwanted attention to her feet, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Political consultants Nathan Babcock, a Republican, and Kimberly Reynolds, a Democrat, preview the 2024 General Election.  The veteran operatives discuss #ncpol races from U.S. President to Council of State to the General Assembly, including the disruptive effect of the Mark Robinson scandal on all races.   Skye and Brian also talk early voting, the Lt. Governor's press conference, the latest Carolina Journal Poll, Rep. Jimmy Dixon is running for House Majority Leader, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Professor Chris Cooper's 'Anatomy of a Purple State' hit bookstores this week and the Western Carolina University political scientist stops by the podcast to discuss it with Skye and Brian.   While in Raleigh, Dr. Cooper also talks about Hurricane Helene's impact on his part of the state and the effect he thinks the aftermath of the storm will have on the November 5th election.  And speaking of unprecedented storms, Cooper also talks about Mark Robinson's possible effect on down ballot races.   Plus, the General Assembly returns to Raleigh to begin addressing the Helene recovery process, three new House members seated, swing state POTUS polling, an #ncpol reporter moves up and out, former Rep. Phil Haire dies, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Kelly McCullen is the host of State Lines, a weekly roundtable public affairs show that features political analysts, journalists and elected officials.  Kelly also serves as executive producer to several PBS-NC public affairs shows, including Side by Side with Nido Qubein and The NC Listening Project.   The Clinton native also talks about his start in broadcasting at a regional AM radio station in Sampson County, his path to TV journalism, and his witness to political change in the General Assembly over the last 20 years.   Plus, Skye and Brian talk about the devastation in western NC caused by Helene, 2 new court cases, new polling, #TOTW, and more.    The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Lobbyist Mike Carpenter is a fixture at the General Assembly in his role as General Counsel at the NC Home Builders Association.  However, many don't realize that it was Mike who started the government relations program at NCHBA in 1989 after a career prosecuting drug dealers in the NC Attorney General's Office.   Mike takes listeners all the way to 1971, when he was a college intern in the Lt. Governor's Office (one of the most powerful legislative offices in state government at the time), his stint a few years later working for U.S. Sen. Sam Irvin on the Watergate Committee, and surviving a plane crash in western NC in 1984.  This week's #TOTW also sets Skye and Brian up to discuss the bombshell news still rocking #NCPOL.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Note from DPB:  This podcast was recorded the day before CNN broke the news about Lt. Governor Mark Robinson's alleged online pornography posts.  Skye and Brian record a brief intro before the podcast starts to give listeners a heads up to this fact and to comment about the gravity of the news. The podcast will talk more about the controversy next week.   Sen. Bob Brinson (R-Lenoir/Craven/Beaufort) is the newest member of the NC Senate, and after his first day of casting votes in the September legislative session, he sat down with Skye and Brian to talk about his life, military career, and public service, including the dramatic hours leading up to him filing for his Senate seat.   Then Sen. Benton Sawrey co-hosts the podcast with Brian as Skye enjoys a vacation trip.  The Johnston County Republican helps Brian understand the latest Carolina Journal Poll from the John Locke Foundation, with a focus on the four swing Senate races. They also discuss AI campaigning, nominee taking the seat of the late Rep. Kelly Alexander, a storm hits the coast, the Christian Action League is dissolving, #TOTW, NC State football, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

If you're a Republican embroiled in a media dust-up, Jonathan Felts is the guy to call.  Whether reporters are inquiring about a Kentucky Bourbon Trail or an election complaint has been filed, Felts is the guy who likes to take problems head on.   Felts talks to Skye and Brian about growing up in Davie County, his conservative upbringing, life in Washington, DC, his work on high profile campaigns, and what brought him back to North Carolina.     Plus, a veteran lawmaker dies, lots of action in the General Assembly, new polling, #TOTW, and a wild youth baseball game in Raleigh.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

A fatal 2016 police shooting in Charlotte thrusted Braxton Winston onto the political/advocacy scene and eventually led him to make a successful bid for the Charlotte City Council a year later.   Now, the Onslow County native is running statewide for Labor Commissioner as a Democrat.  Braxton discusses the race and why he feels his experience as a Union member makes him uniquely qualified to protect North Carolina workers.   Plus, Skye and Brian preview a weeklong legislative session next week, a bombshell story from The Assembly, POTUS politics, a resignation, #TOTW, faking fall, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Luke Farley is new to politics.  Yet, the Onslow County native surprised the NC political world when he won a heated Republican primary race for Labor Commissioner against a candidate with more name recognition and high profile endorsements from around the state.   Luke discusses the primary campaign and the general election, including his experience as a labor attorney, and why he feels he's uniquely qualified to protect North Carolina workers.   Skye and Brian also talk about Beth Wood's endorsement of a Republican in the race for her old job, an election complaint, state employee endorsements, new polls, TOTW, and more.  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

There was a time when the Lieutenant Governor ran the NC Senate and had powers equal to the NC Speaker of the House.  Some would argue that from 1973-1988, the so-called second-in-command had more powers than even the Governor.   Tim Kent is the Executive Director of the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association and he was a reporter at WRAL when the LG was stripped of most legislative power in 1988 after a Republican won the position.  This is Tim's second visit to the podcast after he walked listeners through the overthrow of a sitting House Speaker, also in 1988.   Plus, Skye and Brian discuss Rep. John Faircloth's resignation, Speaker Moore's schedule announcement, POTUS campaign updates, digital IDs, TOTW, Lil Jon, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

NC Republican Party Chairman Jason Simmons stops by the podcast to talk about the RNC Convention in Milwaukee, the Republican case against Vice President Kamala Harris, and his professional transition from Executive Director to Chairman of the NC GOP.   The California native talks about growing up an Army kid, his move to South Carolina, managing campaigns, and his love of North Carolina, its barbecue, and the people.   Plus, Skye and Brian talk about shifting and dynamic North Carolina polls, a new legislator named, medical debt relief, presidential politics in NC, NC tourism spending up again, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

In his last visit to the podcast in February 2023, Rep. Garland Pierce had just won his 10th election to the NC House in a hard fought battle against a well funded Republican challenger.  In 2024, he's in another difficult and expensive fight to represent Hoke and Scotland Counties.   In this special edition of the podcast, Rep. Pierce talks politics, his election, and how he leverages his votes on legislation to benefit his poor, rural district.    The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Political polling has always been under public scrutiny, but the 2016 election took our skepticism to an all new level.  To help us understand polling, Skye and Brian sit down with John Locke Foundation CEO Donald Bryson, whose organization issues ten #ncpol polls each year.   Plus, the podcast discusses Governor Cooper's exit from VP consideration, veto overrides, Republican House Caucus TV ad budget, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and winning gold at the Olympics.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Independent expenditures and c4s are an increasingly important yet misunderstood part of modern day politics. So what is an IE and a c4, and how do they function in a political ecosystem?  Veteran political operative Dan Crawford stops by the podcast to have a conversation about it.   Plus, Skye and Brian unpack a wild week in NC politics, including Gov. Cooper Veepstakes, new members selected, staffing changes, Tweet of the Week, and more.  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Stephen Wiley has one job as the NC House Republican Caucus director:  Win elections so the GOP maintains control of the House.  The one-time Apple store employee talks about how the political landscape looks in 2024, the quality of candidates he's fielding versus those he's facing, and his take on the future of the Republican brand.   Skye and Brian talk about a pair of General Assembly resignations, staff changes in the Senate, quarterly fundraising reports, CNBC's business rankings, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, camping, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.    

This podcast episode is the first of two featuring conversations with the elected chairs of the Democratic and Republican parties in NC.   NC Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton is everywhere it seems.  Following her on social media can be downright dizzying as she criss-crosses the state (and nation) as she pushes out her party's message.   However, there is another side to the 26-year old Person County native and she opens up to Skye and Brian, including her father's vote for President Trump in 2016, the role her mother and late grandmother played in her life, and why she lets out a F-bomb now and then.   With Skye traveling this week, NC Home Builders Association lobbyist Steven Webb joins Brian in unpacking the news, including the latest vetoes, the pending veto overrides, a rundown of bills that didn't make it, Sen. Jim Perry resigns, and Senate Republicans go big early in election ad-buys.   The two also discuss their latest visits to the doctor.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Senate 'Big Chair' Brent Jackson is a featured guest one week after his House counterpart, Rep. Jason Saine, made his case for the House budget on the podcast.   The Senate budget writer talks about the impasse with the House, the decision to go it alone with the budget after the House submitted its own, the Farm Act, watermelons and cantaloupes, and how he plans to spend the rest of his summer.   Skye and Brian also break down the last days of session before we return in the fall, including veto overrides, constitutional amendments, spending agreements, #TOTW, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

After weeks of hearing that a budget would be a conference report agreement between the House and Senate, the House pulled the trigger and released its own budget this week.  Meanwhile the Senate said it's heading home at the end of June.   Rep. Jason Saine is a senior budget writer in the House and he takes listeners behind-the-scenes on how we got here in the process and what we can expect next. In other news, some bills are merging, others are collapsing, and all signs point to a General Assembly shut down in July and August.    The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Listeners may not know Frank Eaton's name, but it's likely they're very familiar with his political ads.  They include eye-popping, attention-getting productions for Rep. Charles Graham, Rep. Deb Butler, Sen. Graig Meyer, Sen. Rachel Hunt, and Lt. Governor Walter Dalton.  The former UNC School of the Arts student also has clients in other states. Frank talks about his Emmy-award winning work and his predictions on what kind of ads we'll see during this election cycle in North Carolina.   Skye and Brian also update listeners on the latest budget news, the mask/campaign finance bill gets final votes, a lawsuit in Carteret County over the school calendar law, Race of the Week, #TOTW, baseball fashion, and more.    The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Brent Woodcox serves as the Senior Policy Counsel to Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and Senate Republicans.  Brent also has a presence on X (formerly Twitter) where he weighs in on policy and politics.   Recently, Brent came under fire from a Republican activist who questioned the lifelong Republican's political loyalty.  Brent talks about his social media, his work in the Senate, his faith, and more.    Skye and Brian also unpack the drama in the General Assembly today about a compromise mask/campaign finance bill, Stein launches negative ad, medical marijuana bill up in smoke, pair of state constitutional amendments, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and more.  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Sen. Mary Wills Bode was Democrats' new hope after the 2022 election in which she won a competitive Senate seat and put up solid numbers in rural part of her Wake-Granville counties district.  However, within a year Sen. Bode announced she was not seeking re-election, was rumored to run statewide, but after the candidate filing in December she was undeclared for any elective office.   Sen. Bode talks about her decision, she gives a run-down of the short session, and she responds to a recent appearance on the podcast by a Senate Republican.   Plus, Skye and Brian send condolences to Speaker Tim Moore, Stein-Robinson polling, a budget update, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, a recent pilates class, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Secretary Grier Martin sits down with Skye and Brian for a conversation as we head into the Memorial Day weekend.   The Afghanistan War veteran recently returned to North Carolina after working at the Pentagon and now leads North Carolina's work advocating for the state's military installations, the active military serving, and veterans living in North Carolina.  The former NC House member also talks candidly about the challenges the Department faces.   Plus, the bipartisan mask bill debate, controversial healthcare bill, budget talks stall, NC tourism now ranked #5, staffing news, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and whatever happened to Brian's friend Jake?  The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Sen. Danny Earl Britt, Jr. guest hosts the podcast this week with Skye and Brian as they tick through the latest policy, budget, and process developments inside the General Assembly.   The Robeson County Republican also gives a candid take on many 2024 candidates on both sides of aisle, including his swing Senate district. The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.  

Bryan Anderson is a freelance journalist who founded Anderson Alerts, a substack on all things #ncpol.  The California native talks about his stints at the News & Observer, Sacremento Bee, WRAL, and The Assembly.  While Bryan loves his work as a NC politics reporter, he has concerns about his profession and he opens up about them in this podcast.   Skye and Brian also unpack the second week of the short session, which began with tragedy in Charlotte, a pair of controversial bills, a technical corrections bill emerges, budget news, Race of the Week, #TOTW, protests at UNC, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.