Podcasts about north carolinians

Guest: Brad Panovich, WCNC CharlotteIf you've lived in North Carolina for any length of time, chances are you've turned to one familiar face when the weather turns serious. But being a trusted meteorologist today isn't just about what happens on TV—it's about showing up wherever your audience is, whether that's on-air, online, or in the middle of a rapidly evolving storm. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Brad Panovich, Chief Meteorologist at WCNC Charlotte. For decades, Brad has helped guide North Carolinians through everything from day-to-day forecasts to high-impact events—including more recent storms like Hurricane Helene—building a level of trust that goes far beyond the forecast itself. We'll talk about how his approach to communication has evolved in the age of social media, what it takes to cut through misinformation, and how you balance urgency, clarity, and calm when people are depending on you the most.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brad Panovich and His Journey02:55 The Evolution of Weather Communication05:54 The Importance of Credentialing in Meteorology08:56 The Role of Trust in Weather Forecasting12:05 Break 112:08 Navigating Social Media as a Meteorologist15:13 Handling Negativity and Criticism in the Digital Age20:13 Understanding Public Perception of Weather Forecasts23:40 Break 224:12 The Role of Social Media in Weather Communication26:28 The Impact of AI on Meteorology30:11 Personal Reflections on the Impact of Meteorology34:26 The Educator's Role in Meteorology ResourcesOhio State University Meteorology Program - https://meteo.osu.edu/UNC Charlotte Weather Communication Course - https://physics.charlotte.edu/ Guest linksBrad Panovich on Twitter - https://twitter.com/WXBradWebsite - https://www.wcnc.com/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wxbradSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a utility company like Duke Energy plans for the future, it tries to predict how much electricity its customers will need a decade from now. Unfortunately, and not surprisingly, much of that process amounts to a guessing game in which utility company profits often play a much bigger role than keeping ratepayer bills low or protecting our natural environment. And right now, this appears to be very much the case at the state Utilities Commission as it reviews Duke's latest carbon plan for the years to come. As NC Newsline learned in a recent conversation with the Environmental Defense Fund's North Carolina Policy Director, Will Scott, while Duke's current proposal calls for building a fleet of new gas power plants by 2033, expert testimony indicates that North Carolinians should be deeply skeptical and supportive of alternative proposals that would emphasize improvements to the electric transmission grid and continued rapid development of less expensive and sustainable energy sources like wind and solar power. Click here to listen to the full interview with the Environmental Defense Fund's North Carolina Policy Director Will Scott.

With a new state government fiscal year set to commence on July first, North Carolina state legislators have still yet to pass a budget for the year that's coming to an end on June 30th. We're the only state in the union in which this is the case. While the state has continued to function at a basic level, the lack of funding certainty, and even minimal raises for teachers and other state employees, has caused enormous hardship. Meanwhile, even as the budget and the negotiations around it remain shrouded in secrecy, other important proposals – including more changes to how the state conducts elections – continue to advance. This past week, Newsline caught up with Wake County state Senator Lisa Grafstein to learn what Republican legislative leaders are telling rank and file members, and why from her perspective, average North Carolinians should be deeply concerned. We also discussed legislation that would place new burdens on local government by capping property taxes and limiting their options for dealing with homeless populations, and yet another new effort to alter coastal policy without first hearing from and listening to the science experts. Click here to listen to the full interview with Senator Lisa Grafstein.

Trump says Ships are now moving through the Strait of Hormuz;12 people are dead in a skydiving plane crash in Missouri; Some Kentucky counties and cities are hitting the pause button on data centers; Expert urges North Carolinians to keep cool and avoid extreme heat; Critics question the role of a religious pregnancy center in an Idaho care desert.

The three guys are back this week with a discourse about planting your roots. Lest there be any confusion, this isn’t an episode about gardening. Rather, it’s an important conversation about investing yourself in the people of God in every season of life. The gents kick things off with modified Minnesotan and North Carolinian accents. …

Over 12% of North Carolinians were living in poverty in 2024. However, a new report finds a much larger group in North Carolina still struggles to make ends meet. An additional 28% of the state's households earn above the federal poverty threshold but not enough to afford basic expenses. We discuss the study and the affordability crisis impacting families.

Genuine food insecurity in which people don't know where their next meal is coming from is a subject that merits a lot of attention. By any fair assessment the fact that literally millions of North Carolinians – a large percentage of them children – go to bed hungry in the world's richest nation is, or at least ought to be, a gigantic scandal. As grim as some of these numbers are, recent actions in Washington – most notably big cuts to federal food assistance and the rising prices caused by the war in Iran – have conspired to make the situation even more dire. Recently, to take stock of just how desperate things have gotten and some of the things average folks can do to help respond, Newsline recently caught up with the President and CEO of the Foodbank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, Amy Beros. Click here to listen to the full interview with Amy Beros, President and CEO of the Foodbank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.

Ever since Republicans captured control of the state legislature at the outset of the last decade, North Carolinians have been witness to a steady stream of proposals designed to make voting harder and more complicated and make the day-to-day oversight and regulation of elections more partisan. And now, with yet another national election of great importance just over five months away, new proposals are being introduced. One such measure in the state Senate would reduce the state's early voting period from 17 days to 10 despite the enormous bipartisan popularity of the current system. In addition, a series of proposals at the GOP-controlled state Board of Elections would make it easier to both toss out provisional ballots and mailed ballots on technicalities and restrict nondisruptive demonstrations designed to get voters to the polls. And recently to learn more about these proposals and how average North Carolinians can weigh in on them, Newsline spoke with the Policy Director of Common Cause North Carolina, Brooks Fuller. Click here for the full interview with Brooks Fuller, Policy Director of Common Cause North Carolina.

Last Thursday, North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson said, "VinFast agreed to build a factory and create jobs for North Carolinians — it didn't do either."The statement accompanied a lawsuit against the EV maker for promises made, but not kept.Jackson filed the lawsuit against VinFast on behalf of the North Carolina Department of Commerce, alleging that the company breached agreements to develop an EV and battery manufacturing facility in Chatham County. Now, the state is trying to reclaim the property so it can find a new partner.About four years ago, the state's Economic Investment Committee awarded a Job Development Investment Grant to VinFast Manufacturing US, LLC. The company promised to create 7,500 jobs and invest more than $3 billion in an EV manufacturing facility. To help make it happen, the North Carolina General Assembly earmarked $450 million to prepare the site and improve transportation, as well as water and sewer infrastructure in the area.#Manufacturing #EV #ElectricVehicles #VinFast #NorthCarolina #FactoryNews #IndustrialNews #ManufacturingNow #Automotive #EconomicDevelopment #BatteryFactory #MadeInAmerica #AutoIndustry #SupplyChain #BusinessNews #ManufacturingIndustry #EVManufacturing #Jobs #IndustryNews #AutomotiveNews

Under threat of a potential chemical explosion, 50,000 people in SoCal have been ordered to evacuate; The Trump administration says U.S. and Iran agree in Principle to reopen the Strait of Hormuz; A new guide tells North Carolinians which waterways are safe for swimming; Tenant town halls across Virginia inform renters of new housing laws.

There are several consitutional amendements North Carolinians will vote on this November. Two of the most notable amendements involve a cap on the state's income tax and a proposal impacting property taxes. WRAL State Government reporter Will Doran breaks down what they include and the politics behind them. 

Award-winning author Heather Frese discusses the magic of North Carolina's coastline, her inspiring memories of Hatteras Island, and how her deeply personal characters were brought to life. A message from our sponsor, Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community in Asheville: Your Next Chapter Beings Here Whether you prefer to spend your days in a kayak, on a mountaintop or simply enjoying the view, Asheville is the place of dream retirements. Your exciting new adventure is calling — and the answer is here at Deerfield. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month! Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com https://www.ourstate.com/topics/arts-culture/book-review/book-club/

Good artists borrow, great artists steal. Apparently, Thomas Jefferson got the memo. It turns out some North Carolinians penned their own Declaration of Independence nearly a year before TJ scribed his. So, if Thomas Jefferson stole (borrowed/homaged) the language for the Declaration of Independence, why have we never talked about this? Well, there was one heck of cover up! To get the full story, we call up David Fleming, author of Who's Your Founding Father?: One Man’s Epic Quest to Uncover the First, True Declaration of Independence. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get the book The Leader in Me: How Schools and Parents Around the World Are Inspiring Greatness, One Student at a Time About This Week's Guest Muriel Summers is an award-winning principal who twice guided her school, A.B. Combs Elementary in Raleigh, North Carolina, to being named the top magnet school of America and the original leadership school featured in FranklinCovey's Leader in Me. She has been recognized as teacher of the year, principal of the year, and with an honorary doctorate, the William and Ida Friday award for Leadership in Innovation, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine given by the Governor of North Carolina (the state's highest honor given to a North Carolinian), the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Award for Leadership in Education, and the Ralph Kimmel Award, North Carolina's highest honor for principals. She now serves as the Global Ambassador for the Leader in Me, and is the co-author, with Stephen R. Covey, Sean Covey, and David Hatch, of The Leader in Me: How Schools and Parents Around the World Are Inspiring Greatness, One Student at a Time.  

State lawmakers are homing in on housing expenses as North Carolinians sour on the economy, with rising concerns over the cost of living and broader economic conditions. North Carolina lawmakers are proposing a variety of new initiatives to address the rising cost of living, everything from freezing reappraisals to easing development to boost supply. WRAL state government reporter Paul Specht talks us through some of the ideas lawmakers are putting forward as we get closer to midterm elections in November.

The North Carolina State legislature is back in session with a lot on the docket, from a potential book ban to Medicaid changes that could affect millions of North Carolinians. WRAL State Government Reporter Will Doran breaks it all down from the state legislative building.  

Fr. Ralph and co-host Zach Zywiec bring you the life and times of Notre Dame's oldest and most storied residence hall, St. Edward's. This week's guests are Victor Jorge Pano, Steds freshman, Math whiz, and resident Spaniard, Paul Toups and Liam Verrier, Steds sophomores, and resident Louisianaian and North Carolinian, Jackson O'Neill, Steds senior, Space explorer and resident Wisconsinite, all followed by Good News and Weather with Logan Schober.

Caleb Horowitz reads his poems "Where is that boat going?" and "We are wearing history heavy like a raincoat" from our Spring 2026 issue.Caleb Horowitz is a North Carolinian poet, teacher, and penguin enthusiast. When he is not chaperoning dozens of students across the country for high school speech and debate tournaments, you can find him reading or writing poems about whales. You can find more of Horowitz's writing with Jewish Book Council, Gashmius, Psaltery & Lyre, Tiger Leaping Review, and Calul Journal.

A recent survey shows that while North Carolinians are pessimistic about the nation's political future, they are strongly united in support of constitutional checks and balances. They also oppose presidential overreach. And they say these feelings would influence their vote in the next election, including among members of both parties.

Award-winning author Halle Hill discusses her short story collection, Good Women. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month! Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com https://www.ourstate.com/topics/arts-culture/book-review/book-club/

No world news development of the past few weeks has commanded more attention or spurred greater controversy than President Donald Trump's decision to go to war with Iran. And while, at this point, the ultimate outcome of the war remains very much in question, the war is drawing very high degrees of skepticism from North Carolinians of all political persuasions – especially independents and Democratic voters. Now add to this the largely negative view that most North Carolinians hold right now about the economy and the president's performance in managing it, and it's no surprise that his overall approval ratings have plummeted. So where exactly do things stand, how does this compare to past public attitudes on foreign wars, and what's likely to be the key driver of public opinion during the 2026 election cycle? Recently, Newsline sat down with the director of the Elon University Poll, Prof. Jason Husser, to find out. In Part One of my recent sit down with Elon University pollster and political scientist, Prof. Jason Husser, we discussed his most recent public opinion surveys and what they say about how North Carolinians view the Trump presidency – and why deep-seated skepticism about the war in Iran and the state of the economy are likely to present big problems for the president and his party in the fall elections. In Part Two of our conversation, we turned our attention to North Carolina politics and policy matters, including the fall U.S. Senate race between former Gov. Roy Cooper and challenger Michael Whatley, approval ratings for Gov. Josh Stein, and what North Carolinians are thinking about some high-profile issues, like concealed weapons and the rising costs of health care. Click here to listen to the full interview with Elon University poll director Jason Husser.

No world news development of the past few weeks has commanded more attention or spurred greater controversy than President Donald Trump's decision to go to war with Iran. And while, at this point, the ultimate outcome of the war remains very much in question, the war is drawing very high degrees of skepticism from North Carolinians of all political persuasions – especially Independents and Democratic voters. Now add to this the largely negative view that most North Carolinians hold right now about the economy and the president's performance in managing it, and it's no surprise that his overall approval ratings have plummeted. So where exactly do things stand, how does this compare to past public attitudes on foreign wars, and what's likely to be the key driver of public opinion during the 2026 election cycle? Recently, Newsline sat down with the director of the Elon University Poll, Prof. Jason Husser, to find out. In Part One of my recent sit down with Elon University pollster and political scientist, Prof. Jason Husser, we discussed his most recent public opinion surveys and what they say about how North Carolinians view the Trump presidency – and why deep-seated skepticism about the war in Iran and the state of the economy are likely to present big problems for the president and his party in the fall elections. In Part Two of our conversation, we turned our attention to North Carolina politics and policy matters, including the fall U.S. Senate race between former Gov. Roy Cooper and challenger Michael Whatley, approval ratings for Gov. Josh Stein, and what North Carolinians are thinking about some high-profile issues, like concealed weapons and the rising costs of health care. Click here to listen to the full interview with Elon University poll director Jason Husser.

Tim and Mike sit down with Antoine Lassiter to talk about what kingdom multiplication really looks like — especially in normative-size churches. Antoine shares his personal story, his heart for reaching the community, and practical insights on how multiplication doesn't have to be reserved for the mega-church down the road. It starts right where you are.Antoine Lassiter is the pastor of Think Kingdom Church in Kannapolis, NC and a Church Planting Strategist for SendNC through the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. A native North Carolinian with over 20 years of ministry experience, Antoine is a disciple maker at heart — passionate about coaching and training church planters across the state. As the founder of the Think Kingdom network, his work includes finding, assessing, and developing planters, sending churches, leaders, and church planting coaches — as well as helping local churches create a reproducing culture that leads to multiplication. Antoine and his wife, Latonia, have been married for 25 years and have two sons, Justin and Christopher.Listen to:Antoine's Story — How God shaped his journey and calling into ministry and multiplication.Reaching Your Community — Practical ways churches can engage the people right around them with the gospel.Multiplication in Normative-Size Churches — Why multiplication isn't just for large churches, and how everyday congregations can embrace a multiplication mindset.About Antoine:Website: antoinelassiter.comAntoine's book - "Beyond the Calling: The Cost of Faithful Leadership"

Major education news in North Carolina as the Leandro case is overturned, NCDOT opens an information center about plans for the I-77 toll lanes, Artemis II opens a new era in American space travel with a North Carolinian on board, and the South Carolina women's basketball team is back in the Final Four for the sixth straight year.

State Senate Leader Phil Berger loses to Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page in a GOP primary for the Triad-area. Berger has been a constant in the State Senate and had great control over state legislative measures for years. How will the loss impact N.C. politics? Will Doran and Paul Specht share what this means going forward for the party and for North Carolinians. 

Title: Go Inside Town Brewing Company with Brandon Stirewalt Copy:  Town Brewing Company Director of Operations Brandon Stirewalt sets the stage for Carolina BBQ Festival's barbecue brunch with a detailed look inside the host site. Hear about the roots of the Charlotte-born brewing company in Wesley Heights and you'll understand how Town Brewing combines locally sourced North Carolina products and community-minded operations to produce award-winning beer and an unrivalled on-site experience. Get Brandon's perspective on where Town Brewing Company fits in the larger Charlotte food and beverage scene, and how growing attention on Queen City's culinary offerings boosts the local beer community. Don't miss the barbecue order from this eighth-generation North Carolinian and what Brandon Stirewalt hopes to enjoy during the Carolina BBQ Festival barbecue brunch. This episode of The Low & Slow Barbecue Show is sponsored by Carolina Barbecue Festival, April 17-18 at Victoria Yards in Charlotte. 30+ pitmasters from the Carolinas and beyond celebrate the traditions of whole hog barbecue while supporting Operation BBQ Relief. Reserve your tickets today for the Kickoff, the Festival, or a full weekend of barbecue. Visit The Low & Slow Barbecue Show website here!

Tornadoes, gendered for a reasonNew Grumors!Meteor game! Which metropolis does Spencer dub "The Tampa of Ohio" and why is that not the meanest thing he's going to say in the next ten minutes?Who is the Chet Hanks of the Mannings?This year's Fullcast mystery brackets ask the important questions, such as: Has cryosleep gotten a bad rap? Is there pizza in the future? Will we never trust North Carolinians to handle snakes properly?Who will join previous bracket champions Mariah Carey and Old-Timey Mine Cart? Everybody be cool and follow the instructions to determine our winner! You did a really good job at this last year, and we're proud of you! Do not make us unproudThe Shutdown Fullcast is on Patreon. This is how we pay our producers, and occasionally ourselves. If you'd like to help with that, give us $4 a month (or a larger, funnier number of your choosing) and we'll give you bonus episodes. As of this recording we have delivered 27 (twenty-seven) bonus episodes since launching in August. We think this is a pretty good deal (for you)Now through March 31, 100% of proceeds from all PTKU merch sales will be donated to TransVisible Montana. Visit preownedairboats.com to purchase BRAND-NEW BLUE SHARKS GEAR #EXCLUSIVEShutdown Fullcast is produced by Michael Ray Surber Fullcast theme variant arranged and performed by Trey McClureDID YOU KNOW: Spencer and Holly write Channel 6, a year-round newsletter that is mostly about football, until it's notBefore the world ends (again), treat yourself to Jason's critically praised novel and other workTravel in your mind palace to Phantom Island, Ryan's new show with Steven Godfrey, which is not a college football show because another simply cannot existCheck out Surber's band, Killer Antz

Terry Roberts discusses his novel, The Sky Club. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month! Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com https://www.ourstate.com/topics/arts-culture/book-review/book-club/

As the overwhelming majority of North Carolinians are well aware, the economic news of late remains a mix of good and bad news. On the hopeful side, the official unemployment rate remains comparatively low. What's more, there are some important ways in which our state remains better situated than many others. On the other hand, however, there are several areas in which things are trending in a negative direction. Perhaps most notable here, is the ongoing affordability crisis that continues to keep prices for several basics of life – housing, health care, groceries – beyond the reach of many average households. Now add the failure of state and national policy leaders to tackle these matters effectively and it's no wonder that concerns are running high – both among experts and average citizens. And recently NC Newsline caught up with North Carolina Budget and Tax Center Policy Analyst Alex Campbell to learn more. Click here to listen to the full interview with North Carolina Budget and Tax Center Policy Analyst Alex Campbell. 

Last Valentine's Day, listener Lucas from North Carolina wrote in about retiring early and “taking our foot off the gas.” This year, life looks very different. Lucas and his wife recently received a diagnosis for their almost two-year-old daughter that means she may never live independently. That news sent Lucas down a deep research rabbit hole involving wills, trusts, and something called a third-party special needs trust. What started as a plan for early retirement has now become a much bigger question:How do you financially protect a child who may depend on you forever? To help answer that question, Pete and the crew are joined by estate planning attorney Shawn Scott, who specializes in helping families navigate these exact situations. In this episode we discuss: What a special needs trust actually is The difference between first-party and third-party special needs trusts Why leaving money directly to a child with disabilities can create major problems Common mistakes families make with DIY estate planning When online legal tools are okay — and when you really need an attorney How grandparents and other relatives should structure gifts or inheritances Lucas's story reminds us that estate planning isn't just about wealth.Sometimes it's about love, protection, and making sure your child is cared for long after you're gone. Also: Pete attempts a North Carolinian accent (results may vary).

Do you know if you live in a flood zone? Multiple studies show that more than half of flood damage actually occurs outside of FEMA's regulatory floodzones. WRAL's Climate Change Reporter Liz McLaughlin and WRAL Digital Producer Jaylin Jones discuss what this means for North Carolinians and why funding issues make it hard for those creating new flood maps. 

The official start to spring is still more than a week away, but doctors say North Carolinians are already feeling the effects of allergy symptoms. Allergy season is starting earlier and lasting longer, making symptoms worse for many. Climate change reporter Liz McLaughlin talks to digital producer Jaylin Jones, explaining the reasons behind the intensifying pollen and shares practical tips to manage allergies.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper just won his Senate primary — and he may be Democrats' best shot at flipping the U.S. Senate. In this video, Gov. Cooper tells Marc Elias why he's running, what's at stake, and why North Carolina is the #1 red-to-blue Senate seat in the country.Cooper breaks down his record as governor — 640,000 new jobs, Medicaid expansion for 715,000 North Carolinians, and a commitment to carbon zero by2050 — and explains why all of it is now at risk. He also takes on his opponent, Michael Watley: a DC insider, big oil lobbyist, and 2020 election denier who served as what Marc Elias calls "the field general of election deniers."Support Democracy Docket's mission:https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/anchor-youtube-friday00:00 The Stakes of the 2026 Elections01:16 Why Roy Cooper Is Running for Senate04:41 Cooper's Record as Governor of North Carolina10:09 Fighting Voter Suppression and Election Denial16:05 The Battle Over North Carolina's Board of Elections22:04 The Moore v. Harper Case and the Fight Over Election Law22:51 Restoring Separation of Powers in Washington28:11 Taking On Michael Whatley and the Election Denial Movement37:21 Cooper's Final Message to Voters

In this Our State Book Club bonus episode, Avett Brothers Bassist, Bob Crawford, discusses his first ever book release; America's Founding Son. Cash & Crawford dive into our nation's rich history, as well as the similarities between recording an album in the studio and writing a novel. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month!  Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com https://www.ourstate.com/topics/arts-culture/book-review/book-club/

The Grammy nominated Avett Brothers are well known for their folk rock music around the world. The bassist, Bob Crawford, is also a historian, however.  This week the North Carolinian joins host Tim Boyum to talk about his love for history and his new book "John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick".

USA Today & New York Times best-selling author Meagan Church discusses her book The Mad Wife. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month! Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com https://www.ourstate.com/topics/arts-culture/book-review/book-club/

In this episode, we break down the Democratic primary for North Carolina's 13th Congressional District, featuring three distinct candidates:Paul Barringer – A healthcare consultant, attorney, and farm manager running on constitutional accountability, fiscal responsibility, and practical healthcare reform. He emphasizes independent, district-first representation, balanced budgeting, and bipartisan problem-solving rooted in “common sense” governance.Frank Pierce – A lifelong North Carolinian and small business owner focused on working families. His platform highlights affordable healthcare, strong public education funding, support for farmers and small businesses, immigration reform, housing solutions, climate action, and protecting democracy, alongside a commitment to community service and compromise.Alexander Nicholi – A software developer and self-described labor Democrat campaigning against deficit spending and tech-industry influence. He prioritizes protecting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, enforcing stricter border controls, ending omnibus bills, and restoring transparency and constitutional governance.We explore how each candidate defines the district's challenges and offers a different vision for its future.Democratic Ballot: US House of Representatives District 13 CandidatesPaul Barringer: Facebook/Instagram/X/Bluesky/Paul@PaulBarringer.comFrank Pierce: Facebook/Instagram/X/TikTok/Pierce4Congress@outlook.comAlexander Nicholi: Facebook/X/Substack/SBE@NicholiFTW.com2026 Voters' Guide for Southern Wake CountyCampaign Finance Reports for Federal Candidate CommitteesVoter Information (Register, Am I Registered?, Election Information) Voter Info (Designated Polling Places, Sample Ballots, Registration Status, Voting Jurisdiction, Verify Address and Party Affiliation) Election Information (Absentee by Mail Voting, Early Voting, Election Day Voting) Closest Early Voting Locations February 12-28WE Hunt Recreation Center-Holly SpringsHilltop Needmore Town Park Clubhouse-Fuquay VarinaELECTION DAYTuesday, March 3 from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PMSupport the showAs always, if you are interested in being on or sponsoring the podcast or if you have any particular issues, thoughts, or questions you'd like explored on the podcast, please email NCDeepDive@gmail.com. Your contributions would be greatly appreciated.Now, let's dive in!

During his 2024 campaign to return to the White House, President Trump promised American voters that he would almost immediately deliver a new era of peace and prosperity. Today, a little over a year since his return to office, it's increasingly clear that most Americans do not believe he has delivered. In addition to a string of losses for Trump allies in a series of special elections, several new opinion surveys indicate that most Americans – including a  significant percentage of Republicans – are unhappy with rising costs of everything from housing to health care to groceries. And yet, despite these trends, Trump retains a core of strong supporters – and this is true in North Carolina – who remain loyal and willing to accept his characterization of the facts, even when they're contradicted by official statistics. And recently to get a better handle on this situation, Newsline sat down for an extended chat with the author of one of the most recent polls, veteran Catawba College political scientist, Prof. Michal Bitzer. In Part One of our recent extended conversation with veteran Catawba College political scientist, Prof. Michael Bitzer, we discussed recent polling numbers that indicate that while President Trump retains a core of strong supporters, his overall approval ratings are waning in light of several controversial global policy actions and an economy that's failing to live up to his campaign promise of lower prices and bigger paychecks. In Part Two of our chat, we continued our discussion of the widespread discontent over the state of the economy, as well as the general bipartisan dissatisfaction with the performance of the U.S. Congress. In addition, we checked in on the continued strong polling numbers for North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein and looked ahead to the upcoming North Carolina U.S. Senate contest in which former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to face one of a group of lesser-known Republican candidates. Click here to listen to the full interview with Catawba College political scientist Prof. Michal Bitzer.

Leading with Purpose What happens when your professional success is no longer enough to satisfy your personal “why”? This week on A New Direction, Coach Jay explores the deeper mechanics of fulfillment with a man who has mastered the art of the pivot. Bob Winstead joins us to discuss the essential shift from chasing achievements to living a life rooted in purpose. If you've been feeling like you're winning the race but running in the wrong direction, this conversation is designed to help you recalibrate your internal compass and find a path that truly resonates. Leadership isn't just about the person at the front of the room; it's about the values that person carries when no one is watching. Bob brings a wealth of experience in building organizations and fostering high-performing teams, but his real expertise lies in the “human element.” We will dive into how authentic success is built on a foundation of service and integrity. Bob shares his philosophy on how to lead with a “team-first” mentality, ensuring that every milestone reached is a victory for the collective rather than just an individual accolade. In this deep-dive episode, Coach Jay and Bob unpack the “Purpose Gap”—the space between where we are and where we feel called to be. They'll explore practical strategies for identifying your core mission and, more importantly, how to integrate that mission into your daily leadership style. Whether you are an executive, an entrepreneur, or a community builder, you'll learn why a clear sense of purpose is the ultimate competitive advantage and the only sustainable fuel for long-term success. Join us for this live transformation!  This isn’t just an interview; it’s an opportunity to audit your own leadership journey and ask the hard questions about what success, leadership, purpose and entrepreneurship really means to you. Don’t miss this chance to hear Bob Winstead's insights on how to align your work with your soul's direction. Tune in live and take the first step toward a more purposeful future. About Bob Winstead Bob Winstead: Entrepreneur, Veteran, and Community Champion Bob Winstead is a lifelong North Carolinian whose entrepreneurial journey began at age 16 when he purchased his first property. A graduate of East Carolina University and a former Pirates football player, Bob transitioned from the gridiron to the U.S. Army, serving as an Airborne soldier. As a serial entrepreneur, Bob has successfully launched and scaled businesses across real estate, fitness, and media—even producing the FOX reality show “Entrepreneurs.” But his true legacy lies in mentorship. Having coached youth football for over 40 years and founded three nonprofits, Bob has made it his mission to uplift the next generation, a passion rooted in his own experience growing up without a father. A dedicated member of the Raleigh and Wake Forest Chambers of Commerce, Bob is now running for North Carolina Secretary of State. He aims to bring his purpose and “startup-to-success” mindset to government, focusing on transparency and creating opportunities for all North Carolinians. Bob resides in Raleigh with his wife of 35 years, Amy, their family, and their dog, Koda. You can learn more about Bob by going to www.Bob4NC.com Please reach out and thank the sponsors of A New Direction Linda Craft Team, Realtors no matter the time of year, for more than 40 years Linda Craft Team Realtors have been helping people fulfill their dream of homeownership.  Whether it is buying a new home, or helping them sell your current home to move into your next life dream. Their customers say that their service is “legendary”, and after 40 years of successfully helping 1000’s of people there is a reason why. Click on over and discover for yourself what the Linda Craft Team can do for you! www.LindaCraft.com The Missing Piece to Your Success As a business leader or founder, you often carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. You have the vision, the drive, and the strategy, yet sometimes it feels like you are hitting an invisible ceiling. The truth is, the biggest barrier to your company's growth isn't usually the market or the economy—it is human behavior. As a Behavioral Strategist, I help you decode the psychological patterns that are silently sabotaging your culture, your execution, and your personal leadership. I don't just tell you what to change; I help you understand why those behaviors exist so you can finally break through the noise and lead with absolute clarity and confidence. Your potential is limitless, but only if you are willing to look at the human element of your business through a new lens. Stop letting behavioral blind spots dictate your future and start making decisions that align your people with your purpose. If you are ready to stop spinning your wheels and start moving in a new, more profitable direction, let's have a conversation that will change the way you lead forever. Visit me today at www.jayizso.com or reach out directly to start your transformation at Jay@TheCoachJay.com.

2026 Elections and What Democracy Means This YearWhat if 2026 isn't just an election year, but the fight for representation itself? In this Season 6 premiere of Built by Us, host Kai McNeil sits down with Professor Dr. Irving Joyner from North Carolina Central University to examine the high stakes of the 2026 midterms and what democracy actually means for North Carolinians right now.Professor Joyner, who has spent decades studying civil rights and constitutional law, traces the history of voting rights expansion in North Carolina from the groundbreaking introduction of early voting in 1991 to the historic 2008 and 2012 turnout when Black voter participation outpaced white voter participation for the first time. But he also unpacks the ongoing attacks on those gains, from voter ID laws to the racial gerrymandering that has left one party controlling nearly 80% of our congressional delegation despite North Carolina being a 50-50 purple state.This episode breaks down what members of Congress, NC senators, and NC representatives actually do for everyday North Carolinians, not just the textbook definitions. From understanding provisional ballots to recognizing how gerrymandering in Congressional District 1 undermines fair representation, Professor Joyner explains why active participation matters now more than ever.As we enter a critical year with US House, US Senate, and NC General Assembly races on the ballot, this conversation is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the power they hold and the democracy they're fighting to protect.Support Democracy NC's work at demnc.co/donate and connect with us on Bluesky, Threads, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.Support the showFollow us on all your favorite platforms! Instagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncThreads: @democracyncBluesky: @democracyncFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaYoutube: @DemocracyNorthCarolina

Ever wonder what the crossroads of fandom and public service looks like? Roy Cooper has lived it at a high level. The UNC graduate and former NC Attorney General and Governor joined Joey Powell to talk about Carolina Basketball, his lifetime fandom, the current roster, and more as he now eyes an office in the United States Senate. There's no political discussion here: just honest storytelling and appreciation for the program that binds so many North Carolinians across generations.   This show is brought to you by Inside Carolina, the No. 1 site for UNC sports coverage and community. Visit http://www.InsideCarolina.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tensions flare in Minneapolis after federal agent shoots and injures man who allegedly assaulted him; A setback for chemical companies in the quest for legal immunity; Report: 1 in 8 in OR are food insecure; rate hasn't dropped since COVID; Formerly incarcerated North Carolinian first to buy, repurpose prison.

Tensions flare in Minneapolis after federal agent shoots and injures man who allegedly assaulted him; A setback for chemical companies in the quest for legal immunity; Report: 1 in 8 in OR are food insecure; rate hasn't dropped since COVID; Formerly incarcerated North Carolinian first to buy, repurpose prison.

Best-selling author Vanessa Miller discusses her book The American Queen and how history, faith, and the writing community influence her writing process. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing one episode per month! Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com

Travis Groo, a North Carolina Candidate for US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 11, is running to help unleash a free, peaceful, and prosperous North Carolina where every individual has the opportunity to pursue their unique vision of a rewarding and enriching life. Our political system is broken, and North Carolinians are ready to fix it. This campaign believes they know how to live their own lives and manage their own finances better than what the politicians are mandating. It's time that politicians stop wasting hard earned tax money and end the irresponsible spending, and to see the world set free in our lifetime.

Welcome to the first episode of 2026 of The Home School Show from North Carolinians for Home Education! Hosts Amanda Wares and Melanie Willis kick off the new year with encouragement, practical guidance, and timely updates for homeschool families.Amanda and Melanie discuss how the new year is a natural time to reflect, reset, and refocus in your homeschool. Whether your fall semester was a success or a struggle, this is a great moment to:Evaluate what worked and what didn'tLet go of curriculum or routines that aren't serving your familyImplement new habits like family read-aloud or Bible timeGive yourself grace—especially if this is your first year homeschoolingThe hosts remind parents that pivoting is not failure, and sometimes a simple reset can make a big difference.The episode highlights the importance of preparing now for the ESA Plus Program, which has been a game changer for many special needs homeschool families.Applications open February 1 and typically close in early MarchRequired documentation takes time to gatherListeners are encouraged to revisit Episode 190 for a full breakdown of the programEven if you're not ready to apply this year, learning the process now can help you prepare for the future.k12.ncseaa.edu/the-education-student-accounts/how-to-apply/ Amanda answers real questions from homeschooling parents, including:How to respond when a teacher discourages a child from homeschoolingEncouragement for first-year homeschool parents experiencing “mid-year panic”Key takeaways include reinforcing your why, offering reassurance to your child, extending grace, and seeking support from fellow homeschoolers. The hosts also highlight NCHE's mentor program as a valuable resource for struggling families.The episode wraps up with exciting opportunities for North Carolina homeschoolers:♟️ Free Online Chess Workshop – January 8  nche.com/chessworkshop/ 

My conversation with Allison begins at about 10 mins Subscribe and Watch Interviews LIVE : On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous soul allisonjaslowforcongress.com Allison Jaslow grew up in a working class, union household and much of her early days were defined by her father's alcoholism that ultimately claimed his life when she was a teenager. Around the time of his death she also felt a call to service, and while visiting a military base on a recruiting trip she was inspired to first serve her country in uniform in the United States Army. Alllison ended up earning an ROTC scholarship to college and joined active duty during the height of the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars in 2004. She served two combat tours in Iraq, including a deployment during the surge, and achieved the rank of Captain. She served honorably and earned a Bronze Star Medal for service, and also earned an Army Commendation Medal with a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster before leaving active duty. She then continued her service on Capitol Hill, in the White House and in leadership roles in the nation's leading post-9/11 veterans advocacy organization. In her role as CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, she drove conversations about the issues that the nation's newest generation of war veterans care about, including the need to modernize the VA, put an end to the veteran suicide crisis, and for Congress to reclaim it's War Powers' authority. Now, Allison is running for Congress so that everyday North Carolinians have a voice they can count on in Congress to represent them in Washington. She knows what it's like to live on the edge and is ready to fight to help make life a little bit easier for families like hers that continue to be squeezed by the cost of basic needs like healthcare and housing. On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Listen rate and review on Apple Podcasts Listen rate and review on Spotify Pete On Instagram Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on Twitter Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page

New York Times best-selling author Ben Fountain discusses his book Devil Makes Three as well as his time spent in Haiti, Texas and the Carolinas. Each month, New York Times best-selling author Wiley Cash handpicks contemporary books by fellow North Carolinian authors (and those writing books set in the state), encouraging listeners to read along and get to know the writers behind the stories. Wiley reviews each book in both the print and digital versions of Our State Magazine - producing two podcast episodes a month. Contact Our State Book Club: podcast@ourstate.com

If not for Social Security, more than 37% of older adults would live below the official poverty line, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. But even with Social Security benefits, about 10% of older adults still live in poverty. Today, we hear from one North Carolinian living at that economic line. Also: a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau "humility pledge" and parsing today's (vintage) government economic reports.

If not for Social Security, more than 37% of older adults would live below the official poverty line, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. But even with Social Security benefits, about 10% of older adults still live in poverty. Today, we hear from one North Carolinian living at that economic line. Also: a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau "humility pledge" and parsing today's (vintage) government economic reports.