Podcast appearances and mentions of tony mecia

May was one of the busiest months Charlotte has seen in recent memory. Mayor Vi Lyles announced her resignation, city leaders reversed course on the controversial I-77 toll lane expansion, data centers sparked heated debate at City Hall and the region continued grappling with a months-long drought. In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editors Tony Mecia, Ashley Fahey and Lindsey Banks sit down for a live Reporters Roundtable to unpack the biggest local stories of the month. Recorded via Zoom in front of a live audience on May 29, 2026, the conversation goes beyond the headlines to explain how these developments happened, why they matter and what comes next for Charlotte.Whether you've been following every twist in Charlotte politics or just need a catch-up on the month's biggest developments, this conversation offers context, insight and a behind-the-scenes look at the stories shaping the region. Also, discussed: Lake Lure's reopening after Hurricane Helene and what it says about Western North Carolina's recovery. Why affordable housing is becoming harder to find not only in Mecklenburg County, but across the entire Charlotte region. The rise of homeowners choosing major renovations instead of moving because of today's housing market. Reflections on the lives and legacies of Charlotte figures including Chris Thomas and media pioneer Ted Turner. The surprisingly competitive world of Charlotte birthday freebies. Some of the Ledger stories that stood out most to the newsroom this month, from neighborhood history to soccer moms and hospital oversight. Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com. 

Charlotte didn't become the city it is today by accident — and many of the forces that shaped its neighborhoods, growth patterns and economic divides are still at play. From the rise of streetcar suburbs to the legacy of segregation written into deeds, the city's past continues to influence everything from where people live to why housing has become so difficult to afford.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Tony Mecia sits down with local historian Tom Hanchett for a live conversation about how Charlotte developed and what that history reveals about the city today. Hanchett traces Charlotte's evolution from a compact, walkable town to a fast-growing Sun Belt city, unpacking how business leaders shaped decisions, how neighborhoods became increasingly segregated by race and income, and why Charlotte has long preferred to resolve big issues quietly behind closed doors. He also connects those historical patterns to one of the city's most pressing modern challenges: affordable housing. From the disappearance of “starter homes” to the growing number of working residents who can't afford to live where they serve, Hanchett explains how past decisions created today's housing realities — and why solving them will require both policy changes and a broader understanding of who affordable housing is really for. This episode was recorded during a live conversation at The Sharon at SouthPark on April 21, 2026. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Crimson Park Digital. Get your brand seen, capture demand, and turn attention into revenue, now. Visit CrimsonParkDigital.com to get started.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com. 

Charlotte landed one of its biggest job announcements in years this week, with Japanese banking giant Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) planning a major hub that could bring up to 2,000 jobs. It's a significant win not just for the sheer number of jobs, but for what it signals: Charlotte continues to draw global financial firms looking for talent, lower costs and room to grow. The deal also reflects a broader trend — even as the city diversifies, finance remains at the core of its economic engine.In this bonus breaking-news episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editors Ashley Fahey and Tony Mecia unpack how the deal came together, what it tells us about Charlotte's place in the national banking landscape, and what stood out from the announcement. They also dig into the types of jobs expected, how quickly they might arrive, and what this could mean for everything from hiring to office space — including the possibility of filling one of uptown's most prominent vacant towers. They also explore the bigger picture: why Charlotte keeps winning these projects, how it stacks up against competitors like Dallas, and what may still be in the pipeline.We discussed:Why this deal is unusually large for Charlotte — and how it compares to past announcements What kinds of jobs are coming (and where they may come from) How fast hiring could ramp up — and when to expect openings The behind-the-scenes recruitment effort, including an international push Where the new hub might land — and what it could mean for uptown real estate Why Charlotte continues to attract financial firms — and what that says about the city's futureYou can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.comThis episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Tony Mecia.

Longtime state Senate leader Phil Berger — one of the most powerful figures in Raleigh for more than a decade — lost his primary by just 23 votes. In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, editor Tony Mecia sits down with former North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory to unpack one of the most surprising political upsets in recent memory.McCrory walks through how it happened, from local backlash over a proposed casino to shifting voter sentiment and the limits of political influence. They also discuss:What Berger's loss says about money in politicsThe role of endorsements (including from President Donald Trump)How power in the state legislature could shift in the months aheadHow political dynamics in North Carolina have evolved — and what this moment might signal for future racesThis conversation was recorded as a webinar on March 26, 2026, as part of PBS Charlotte's Unspun series, hosted by former Gov. Pat McCrory. Unspun airs at 8 p.m. on Friday nights on PBS Charlotte. An online version, Unspun Unscripted, with viewer questions is on the last Friday of the month at 10 a.m.Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com. 

For many people, personal finance feels overwhelming until life forces the issue — a first 401(k), a divorce, a diagnosis, retirement or the sudden realization that no one ever really taught them how money works. In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, that uncertainty is at the center of the conversation: how people build financial confidence, why so many avoid planning and what changes when someone finally takes ownership of the numbers.Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Mary Ware, a Charlotte native and wealth advisor with Carnegie Wealth whose path into finance started not with business school, but with journalism and a personal-finance class at Central Piedmont that changed the course of her career. She explains how financial planning goes far beyond picking investments, why women are poised to control more wealth in the coming years, and what people often miss when navigating major transitions like retirement or divorce. They also discuss: Why financial planning is really about values, goals and life decisionsThe most common mistakes people make with retirement and estate planningWhy divorce can be one of the most financially stressful transitions in lifeWhat AI may change in financial advice — and what it probably won'tWhy knowing your numbers is one of the most important steps in planning wellHow mahjong is like financial planning. We hope you enjoy the conversation with Mary Ware. Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. 

Interstate 77 has been one of Charlotte's most frustrating stretches of pavement for years. Now, as state leaders move closer to widening that corridor with new toll lanes, a fresh political battle has erupted — not just over tolls, but over what the expansion would mean for neighborhoods already divided by the highway decades ago.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia sits down with Steve Harrison, political reporter at WFAE, for a live conversation recorded Feb. 23, 2026 at The Sharon at SouthPark Retirement Community. Together, they unpack how the I-77 debate evolved from complaints about expensive toll lanes in North Mecklenburg to a broader fight over equity, neighborhood impact and whether Charlotte leaders still have any power to reshape the project. We hope you enjoy the conversation with Steve Harrison. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger and WFAE's “Charlotte in Motion” newsletter, or to subscribe, please visit TheCharlotteLedger.com.Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thecharlotteledger.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Sucharita Kodali, executive director of The Election Hub, about the Democratic ballot in Mecklenburg County.The primary election is March 3, 2026. Early voting runs through Feb. 28, 2026.Registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters can cast ballots in the Democratic primary, which features races for U.S. Senate, U.S. House, the General Assembly, judgeships, the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners and sheriff.➡️ You can find information about every candidate on the Mecklenburg ballot at TheElectionHub.org.

In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Sucharita Kodali, executive director of The Election Hub, about the Republican ballot in Mecklenburg County.The primary election is March 3, 2026. Early voting runs through Feb. 28, 2026.Registered Republicans and unaffiliated voters can cast ballots in the Republican primary, which features races for U.S. Senate, U.S. House, the General Assembly and an N.C. Court of Appeals seat.➡️ You can find information about every candidate on the Mecklenburg ballot at TheElectionHub.org.

Economics can sound like a subject you suffered through once and never wanted to revisit — but Michael Blanco, president of the Charlotte Economics Club, argues it's actually the stuff people talk about every day: jobs, housing, inflation, interest rates, tariffs, AI, and where the economy is headed.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Tony Mecia sits down with Blanco to talk about what the club does, who shows up to its events and why Charlotte — a longtime banking town that's becoming an even bigger financial hub — is the perfect place for a growing economics club. Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. Visit TheCharlotteLedger.com to learn more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Billions of dollars in public investment. New office towers breaking ground. Nearly 5,000 apartments in the pipeline. After years of pandemic disruption and slow return-to-office trends, Charlotte's center city may be entering a pivotal new chapter.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Michael Smith and James LeBar of Charlotte Center City Partners about the newly released 2026 State of the Center City Report — an annual snapshot of uptown, South End and Midtown. They discuss why 2025 was a “super productive year,” what they mean by an “inflection point,” and how transportation, talent growth and large-scale development projects could reshape Charlotte's urban core over the next decade.The report includes detailed maps, data and projections for the next 12–24 months. You can explore the full 2026 State of the Center City Report here.We hope you enjoy the conversation with  James LeBar and Michael Smith. For more information on Charlotte Center City Partners, visit CharlotteCenterCity.org.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. Visit TheCharlotteLedger.com to learn more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Recorded live Jan. 5, 2026, at The Sharon at SouthPark.PBS and public media have been in the spotlight lately — and not in a way anyone asked for. When federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting was eliminated, NPR and PBS stations across the country faced sudden cuts and hard choices.In this special live episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia sits down at The Sharon at SouthPark with Amy Burkett, general manager of PBS Charlotte, to talk about what that shift has meant locally — and what it's forcing public media to do differently. Burkett, a former commercial TV reporter and anchor, shares how PBS Charlotte has rebuilt itself since nearly going dark in the early 2010s, how the station is adapting after losing $1.2 million overnight, and why she believes public media is more valuable in an era when trust is harder to come by.They also dig into what PBS does best (history, long-form storytelling, local documentaries), what it struggles to compete on (reality-style programming), and how the station is trying to reach viewers across platforms — from broadcast to Passport streaming to YouTube.Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at www.FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Aging rarely arrives all at once. For many families, the realization comes quietly: a holiday visit that feels a little different, a parent who seems less steady, less engaged, or less organized than before.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, we share a recording of a Jan. 14, 2026, webinar produced in partnership with Caregiving Corner, focused on how families can recognize meaningful changes in aging adults and respond thoughtfully without panic, judgment or damaging trust. Ledger executive editor Tony Mecia is joined by Jennifer Szakaly, founder and CEO of Caregiving Corner, for a wide-ranging, practical conversation that blends medical insight, real-world caregiving experience and audience questions from families navigating these decisions in real time.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Caregiving Corner. Caregiving Corner works with families who are taking care of aging relatives and need assistance navigating the long-term care system. Whether you are planning for aging, or needing help managing a crisis, our team is here for you. For more information, visit CaregivingCorner.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

When tragedy struck one of Charlotte's most visible tech companies last fall, it forced an unexpected leadership transition at a pivotal moment. LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda's sudden death in October 2025 left the company — and the city — reeling. Within hours, longtime executive Scott Peyree was asked to step into the top role and steady a business serving millions of consumers nationwide.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Peyree about the night everything changed, how he learned of Lebda's passing, and what it meant to lead through grief while keeping a public company on track. Peyree reflects on his path from founding QuoteWizard to running LendingTree, the company's future in Charlotte, and how artificial intelligence could reshape how consumers shop for financial products. Along the way, he also shares a few personal details — including his love of Seattle grunge and why hybrid work is here to stay.We hope you enjoy the conversation with Scott Peyree. For more information on LendingTree, visit LendingTree.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Crimson Park Digital. Get your brand seen, capture demand, and turn attention into revenue, now. Visit CrimsonParkDigital.com to get started.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode, we quickly break down what's on the ballot in Mecklenburg County for the 2025 election — from the Charlotte City Council races to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education contests and the closely watched transit tax referendum.Tony Mecia of The Charlotte Ledger and Sucharita Kodali of The Election Hub explain what each race means for the future of the community, how the proposed transit sales tax referendum could reshape the region's transportation network and what's at stake in local leadership and education policy.For reliable, nonpartisan information on candidates and issues, visit TheElectionHub.org. It has biographies on every candidate on the Mecklenburg ballot (including races in Mecklenburg's towns), plus information on candidates in the Gaston County cities of Gastonia, Belmont and Mount Holly. It's a project designed to make it easier for local residents to make informed choices.Tune into this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast for a clear, concise overview of what's on the ballot and why it matters for Charlotte's future.Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Early voting runs at 21 sites through Nov. 1.We hope you enjoy the conversation.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In a city full of newcomers eager to make connections, a Charlotte startup found a simple way to bring people together — through learning. From watercolor painting to small business branding, SkillPop has helped thousands of locals discover new skills and friendships by turning breweries, boutiques and coffee shops into classrooms. What began as a handful of pop-up lessons in 2015 has evolved into a thriving business that's marking its 10-year anniversary and expanding once again.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, SkillPop founder and CEO Haley Bohon talks with The Ledger's Tony Mecia about how the company grew from a one-woman experiment into a self-funded success. The conversation explores the challenges of entrepreneurship in Charlotte, the pandemic pivot that reshaped the company and what SkillPop's next chapter says about the city's creative energy and appetite for community.We hope you enjoy the conversation with Haley Bohon. For more information on SkillPop, visit SkillPop.com.For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Crimson Park Digital. For Charlotte businesses, getting noticed and staying visible is tougher than ever. That's where Crimson Park Digital comes in: a boutique marketing agency delivering bespoke strategies for advertising, content, social media, and search engines. They're helping bold, service-focused brands get seen, capture demand, and turn attention into revenue. Ready to bolster your marketing this Fall? Visit CrimsonParkDigital.com to get started. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we hear from Shannon Binns of Sustain Charlotte, who makes the case for a “YES” vote on the proposed transportation sales tax referendum. Binns argues that investing in transit, roads, sidewalks and bike lanes is essential to keep up with the region's explosive growth, improve safety, reduce congestion and make Charlotte more competitive for the future.In a conversation with Charlotte Ledger editor Tony Mecia, Binns explains why he believes the plan offers a balanced approach — funding roads and safety improvements, expanding bus and rail service, and creating cleaner, healthier communities. He urges voters to seize this rare opportunity to build a transportation system that serves everyone.Binns also wrote a column expressing his ideas in a recent edition of Transit Time, a weekly newsletter on transit and transportation produced by The Charlotte Ledger and WFAE.THE OTHER SIDE: This episode and accompanying column are part of a two-part series exploring the arguments for and against Mecklenburg's transportation referendum, which is on the Nov. 4 ballot. Be sure to check out the perspecive of the "VOTE NO" side, in a conversation and column by Robert Dawkins of Action NC.Together, these different perspectives provide a balanced look at both sides of the transportation sales tax debate.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we talk with Robert Dawkins of Action NC, who explains why he believes raising Mecklenburg's sales tax to pay for transit and transportation is unfair and misguided. Dawkins advocates for a "NO" vote on November's referendum, arguing that the plan puts too heavy a burden on low- and middle-income families, lacks accountability and repeats a pattern of broken promises from previous city transportation initiatives.In a conversation with Charlotte Ledger editor Tony Mecia, Dawkins shares stories from his work with displaced residents, outlines concerns about transparency and oversight and questions whether the city's mobility plan truly serves those who rely on public transportation the most. He urges voters to take a closer look at who benefits—and who bears the costs—of the proposed tax.Dawkins also wrote a column expressing his ideas in a recent edition of Transit Time, a weekly newsletter on transit and transportation produced by The Charlotte Ledger and WFAE.THE OTHER SIDE: This episode and accompanying column are part of a two-part series exploring the arguments for and against Mecklenburg's transportation referendum, which is on the Nov. 4 ballot. Be sure to check out the perspecive of the "VOTE YES" side, in a conversation and column with Shannon Binns of Sustain Charlotte.Together, these different perspectives provide a balanced look at both sides of the transportation sales tax debate.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

The Charlotte region is in the middle of a population boom, adding tens of thousands of new residents each year. That growth is fueling opportunity and energy, but it's also straining roads, schools, housing, and infrastructure in ways that demand new solutions.At this year's Canopy Realtor® Association EXPO, Charlotte Ledger executive editor Tony Mecia moderated a panel of regional leaders who dug into what growth means for communities across the Carolinas — and how local chambers and business alliances are responding.The panel featured Kit Cramer of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Tracy Dodson of the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, and Dean Faile of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce.This episode is a recording from the economy and economic development panel at the Canopy EXPO on Sept. 9, 2025.This episode is sponsored by AC Creative Collective. Based in Charlotte, N.C., and founded by sisters Amoura and Avery Carter, AC Creative Collective specializes in end-to-end marketing and learning and development services. They are dedicated to helping businesses and organizations streamline their operations and achieve their goals with creativity and precision. From social media strategies to workshops and brand launches, they've got you covered. Visit www.accreativecollective.com to learn more.For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

After more than 20 years in Charlotte's corporate banking world, Kristen Winkle Beck made the leap into the nonprofit sector. Today, she leads Social Venture Partners Charlotte (SVP), a venture philanthropy organization that supports emerging nonprofits by combining grant funding with business expertise and professional networks.Beck says many nonprofits are started by passionate community members who see a need but could benefit from connections to people who can help them get off the ground. SVP helps fill that gap, pairing funding with skilled volunteers who can strengthen infrastructure and strategy, ensuring local organizations can grow their impact. One of SVP's most visible programs is SEED20, an annual pitch competition and year-long learning experience that equips nonprofit leaders to share their innovative ideas.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Beck sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to talk about the needs and challenges of nonprofits, the history and impact of Social Venture Partners and how its SEED20 program empowers social entrepreneurs.We hope you enjoy the conversation with Kristin Winkle Beck. For more information on Social Venture Partners Charlotte, visit svpcharlotte.org.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Crimson Park Digital. For Charlotte businesses, getting noticed and staying visible is tougher than ever. That's where Crimson Park Digital comes in: a boutique marketing agency delivering bespoke strategies for advertising, content, social media, and search engines. They're helping bold, service-focused brands get seen, capture demand, and turn attention into revenue. Ready to bolster your marketing this Fall? Visit CrimsonParkDigital.com to get started.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In today's workplace, your online presence is just as important as your resume. LinkedIn has become a cornerstone of how careers grow: it's where opportunities surface, reputations are built and connections turn into fruitful business relationships.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Amy George of Charlotte-based By George Communications talks with The Ledger's Tony Mecia about how professionals at every stage can use LinkedIn to strengthen their careers. Amy, who helps clients refine their profiles and presence, shares insights on how to make the platform work for you — whether you're job hunting, networking or building credibility in your field.This episode is packed with practical tips that professionals can apply right away to strengthen their LinkedIn presence and, by extension, their careers. It's useful, real-world advice that can help you look better online, connect more effectively and open doors to new opportunities.About Career Boost: This is part of a September 2025 series in The Charlotte Ledger called “Career Boost,” designed to help professionals sharpen their skills, grow their careers and thrive in the workplace. Each installment offers practical tips and expert insights on everything from leadership and productivity to communication and personal branding. It's smart, actionable guidance for anyone looking to take the next step in their career.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Being good at your job isn't enough. At some point, every professional is asked to step out from behind the spreadsheets, codes or reports and communicate — whether it's presenting to leadership, giving feedback to a colleague or rallying a team around a shared vision. That's where careers are made or stalled.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, The Ledger's Tony Mecia talks with Lou Solomon, founder of Charlotte-based communications training company Interact Studio and an expert in helping leaders communicate with authenticity. Lou shares practical strategies to move from subject-matter expert to communicator, using tools like storytelling, brevity and honest dialogue to build influence and trust.This conversation offers practical tips on how better communication can help you grow in your career.About Career Boost: This is part of a September 2025 series in The Charlotte Ledger called “Career Boost,” designed to help professionals sharpen their skills, grow their careers and thrive in the workplace. Each installment offers practical tips and expert insights on everything from leadership and productivity to communication and personal branding. It's smart, actionable guidance for anyone looking to take the next step in their career.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Maintaining strength and mobility isn't just about looking fit—it's about preserving independence, health and quality of life as we age. Muscles naturally begin to change around midlife, with metabolism slowing and the body losing some of its ability to build or maintain mass.Without attention, that shift can lead to less strength, more fatigue, and a higher risk of chronic conditions. But experts say muscle longevity—the ability to keep muscles strong and functional well into later years—is possible with the right habits.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, The Ledger's Tony Mecia talks with orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Dr. Robert Morgan about how aging affects muscle, what people can do to counteract the decline, and why it's never too late to start.This episode is a recording of the third session of the free “Move Well, Live Well” webinar series, brought to you by The Charlotte Ledger and OrthoCarolina. This summer, we're bringing you a three‑part series designed to help you stay strong, mobile, and pain‑free as you age. Each session features practical advice from experts you can use right away.We hope you enjoy the conversation with Robert Morgan. Click here for more information on the “Move Well, Life Well' webinar series.Other podcasts in the series:Part 1: "Improving your muscle health, with OrthoCarolina's Dr. Barrett A. Little"Part 2: "Understanding arthritis and easing the aches, with OrthoCarolina's Dr. Michael Bates"This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions people face as they age, often bringing pain, stiffness and limits on mobility. But while many assume it's an unavoidable part of getting older, experts say there are steps people can take to slow its progression and even reduce the risk of developing it in the first place.From lifestyle choices like exercise and weight management to newer treatment options, the conversation around arthritis is shifting from inevitability to prevention and management.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Dr. Michael Bates, a Charlotte orthopedic surgeon recognized as a 2023 Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine, sits down with The Ledger's Tony Mecia to explain what arthritis is, dispel common myths, and share practical advice.This episode is a recording of the second session of the free “Move Well, Live Well” webinar series, brought to you by The Charlotte Ledger and OrthoCarolina. This summer, we're bringing you a three‑part series designed to help you stay strong, mobile, and pain‑free as you age. Each session will feature practical advice from experts you can use right away.We hope you enjoy the conversation with Michael Bates. Click here for more information on the “Move Well, Life Well' webinar series.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when a major foundation suddenly triples its giving? In this episode, we talk with Tom Lawrence, CEO of The Leon Levine Foundation, about the decision by the 3rd-largest foundation in the Carolinas to boost its annual grantmaking to $100 million. Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Lawrence and board chair Michael Tarwater about how the move fulfills Leon Levine's longtime vision, what kinds of organizations stand to benefit and how the foundation is navigating this turning point. Lawrence shares insights on giving priorities, how funding decisions are made, and what the surge in grant-making means for communities across the Carolinas.For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

As North Carolina employers grapple with a tight labor market and rapid technological change, community colleges are stepping up to meet the demand, and more students are taking notice. Enrollment at the state's two-year colleges jumped 8.3% this spring compared with the previous year, outpacing the national average.John Loyack, vice president of economic development for the North Carolina Community College System, attributes the growth to the system's flexible pathways, from associate degrees and short-term certificates to custom training for local employers. The state's community colleges are playing a key role in preparing workers for fast-growing industries like advanced manufacturing, aviation, life sciences and cybersecurity — all sectors where hands-on training and technical credentials are essential.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Loyack sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to talk about the role community colleges play in the local economy, the impact of student debt debates on educational choices, "hot jobs" and specific industries and skills that are in high demand, and much more!This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger or to subscribe to one of our newsletters, please visit TheCharlotteLedger.comThis episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Charlotte's hospitality and retail scene is changing rapidly, but what's really driving the evolution? Industry experts agree that Charlotte's hospitality market is thriving but becoming more competitive, with new players entering the scene and raising consumer expectations. Neighborhoods like South End have been pivotal in putting Charlotte on the map. However, the suburban retail market is now gaining momentum — like in SouthPark, Ballantyne and Huntersville. A new report, called the Charlotte Hospitality and Retail Guide 2025, lays out the key trends shaping the city's retail landscape. In this episode, Ledger editor Tony Mecia is joined by three contributors to the report: Daniel Gibson of NiceDay, a marketing agency that specializes in retail, hospitality and real estate; Adam Williams of Rebel Rebel, an urban retail advisory firm that provides full-service brokerage and consulting services; and Bryan Southwick of Southwick Architecture + Interiors, a hospitality-focused architecture and interior design firmThey break down the city's shifting development patterns and the rise of smaller-format retail, new expectations from consumers and how developers and restaurateurs can adapt to stand out in a competitive market.This podcast episode is brought to you by Coca-Cola Consolidated, Charlotte's local bottler and the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the US. Coke Consolidated recently invested $15 million into its Monroe facility, which included a new technical training academy, the first of its kind within the Coca-Cola System. Learn more at www.CokeConsolidated.com/media.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Before Grace Weisiger could join her family's four-generation business, The Weisiger Group (formerly Carolina Tractor and Equipment), her parents told her she needed to gain some experience in a different industry. In 2014, while still a student at the University of Georgia, she received a call from a friend of a friend, who had a cryptic pitch: “I can't tell you what we're doing, but we're starting a company, and it's going to be huge. And we'd like you to be a part of it.” Skeptical but intrigued, Weisiger listened. That call led her to Bumble, a dating app, which was then just a fledgling idea with a bold mission: empower women to make the first move. What followed was a crash course in startup grit, cultural change and marketing innovation that would shape her career. Today, Weisiger is the founder of Willow Hill, a private investment vehicle.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Weisiger sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to discuss her career, including her family's business, The Weisiger Group, her early role at Bumble and what she learned, the principles of search funds, her journey in investment and how she approaches finding and leading scalable businesses.Today's episode is sponsored by Hillandale Advisors, a Charlotte-based investment and advisory firm that provides strategic counsel to local business owners and invests in private businesses, public equities, and commercial real estate. The Private Business Roundtable hosts events to connect and educate the private business community in Charlotte, Raleigh and Winston-Salem. Are you looking for support in capital raising, hiring key talent or selling your business? Contact Matt@HillandaleAdvisors.com or learn more at www.HillandaleAdvisors.com.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger, and subscribe to our locally focused newsletters, at TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Charlotte celebrated the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence on May 20, 2025, at a ceremony and re-enactment in uptown Charlotte.Watch the full celebration, with commentary and interviews by co-hosts Tony Mecia and Cristina Bolling of The Charlotte Ledger — with impromptu guests including former county commissioner Matthew Ridenhour, planning commission member Clayton Sealey and Ledger history correspondent John Short.You might also enjoy this podcast about the Meck Dec:Related Ledger articles:* “Debating the Meck Dec” (May 12)* “Charlotte breweries release Meck Dec-themed beers” (May 7)* “Blowout celebrations planned for Meck Dec milestone” (March 17)* “Historical Heavyweights: Charlotte's revolutionary tavern keeper” (March 15)Need to sign up for this e-newsletter? We offer a free version, as well as paid memberships for full access to all 6 of our local newsletters:The Charlotte Ledger is a locally owned media company that delivers smart and essential news. We strive for fairness and accuracy and will correct all known errors. The content reflects the independent editorial judgment of The Charlotte Ledger. Any advertising, paid marketing or sponsored content will be clearly labeled.◼️ About The Ledger • Our Team • Website◼️ Newsletters • Podcast • Newcomer Guide • A Better You email series◼️ Subscribe • Sponsor • Events Board • Merch Store • Manage Your Account◼️ Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

If you've ever tuned into Charlotte's NPR station in the mornings, you've probably heard the soothing voice of Marshall Terry. But you probably don't know much about him otherwise. In an era marked by building personal brands, influencers and oversharing on social media, Terry is refreshingly old school. He doesn't post on social media, and he rarely talks to media interviews outside of his job.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Terry talks with Ledger editor Tony Mecia about the unique aspects of Terry's career, his love for the early morning radio lifestyle and his unexpected journey into broadcasting.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by Child Care Search, a service of Child Care Resources Inc. Looking for child care? Our team provides guidance every step of the way! Search online at FindChildCareNC.org or call 1-888-600-1685 for live assistance and free, customized referrals. You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger, and subscribe to our locally focused newsletters, at TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In a world where the disparity between different socioeconomic classes is increasing, organizations like United Way of Greater Charlotte play a critical role in forging paths toward greater economic mobility for future generations.United Way of Greater Charlotte is one of the Charlotte region's largest health and human services nonprofits. The nonprofit stands at a unique confluence of the public sector, private corporations, philanthropy and nonprofit organizations, which allows it to harness resources and expertise from different arenas.United Way has put nearly $18 million in community investments into 134 nonprofit organizations across a four-county area: Anson, Cabarrus, Union and Mecklenburg.In this episode of the Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Kathryn Firmin-Sellers, who first joined United Way of Greater Charlotte in 2018 as chief impact officer before becoming president and CEO in April 2025, sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to discuss the organization's mission to lift children and families out of poverty by leveraging community partnerships. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In a time of economic turbulence and market volatility, understanding where things stand—and where they're headed—feels more important than ever.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with economist Mark Vitner. Vitner, a longtime Charlotte-based economist formerly with Wells Fargo, is now chief economist for Piedmont Crescent Capital, a boutique economic consulting firm. He explains why the Charlotte region has remained resilient—and what clouds may be gathering on the horizon.Vitner notes that while the fundamentals remain solid, warning signs are starting to flash—especially when it comes to trade tensions, inflation expectations and real estate. He also discusses how Charlotte's unique strengths position it better than many peer cities to weather a potential downturn.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Tony Mecia.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Workforce trends for 2025 are taking shape — from AI and automation to evolving employee expectations and hybrid work models. In this kickoff of the “Trends in the Workplace 2025” series, experts break down what's coming and what it means for the workplace.This episode is a recording from March 2025 of the first day of a three-part webinar series by Catapult Employers Association and The Charlotte Ledger. The webinar series explores the key trends, technologies and shifts reshaping the workplace in 2025 and beyond.In this episode, The Charlotte Ledger's Tony Mecia talks with:◼️ Dr. Cheryl Richards, the president & CEO of Catapult, who brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in higher education and workforce development; and◼️ Doug Blizzard, Catapult's chief solutions officer with more than three decades in HR, leading service delivery and advising on everything from compliance to talent strategy.Be sure to check out Part 2 and Part 3, which you can listen to on The Charlotte Ledger Podcast.Part 2: Rethinking your hiring strategyPart 3: Retaining and developing your employeesFind out more about Catapult at LetsCatapult.org. Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.This episode is sponsored by Catapult Employers Association. Catapult empowers Charlotte's business community with trusted, local HR expertise. Join Charlotte's top employers this April in Greensboro, NC, at their 2025 HR Conference: HResilient. Learn more at letscatapult.org/hresilient2025/. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

What do recruiters and hiring managers think candidates want? What do job seekers actually need? Rethinking your hiring strategy could be the key to long-term success. In this second installation of the “Trends in the Workplace 2025” series, experts break down the shifting workplace expectations and how to attract and retain top talent.This episode is a recording from March 2025 of the second day of a three-part webinar series, brought to you by Catapult Employers Association and The Charlotte Ledger. The webinar series explores the key trends, technologies and shifts reshaping the workplace in 2025 and beyond.In this episode, The Charlotte Ledger's Tony Mecia talks with: ◼️ Jacqueline Esposito, a compensation advisor for Catapult, who is responsible for advising Catapult's member companies in the areas of compensation and total rewards◼️ Kendra Stewart, who has expertise in talent development, workforce planning, strategic HR implementation and management consultation; and◼️ Shannon Leonida, Catapult's recruiting team lead.Be sure to check out the other two episodes on The Charlotte Ledger Podcast:Part 1: What's coming in 2025?Part 3: Retaining and developing your employeesFind out more about Catapult at LetsCatapult.org. Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.This episode is sponsored by Catapult Employers Association. Catapult empowers Charlotte's business community with trusted, local HR expertise. Join Charlotte's top employers this April in Greensboro, NC, at their 2025 HR Conference: HResilient. Learn more at letscatapult.org/hresilient2025/. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Engaged and motivated employees are more likely to stay and grow. In this third and final installment of the “Trends in the Workplace 2025” series, experts share the secret sauce to retaining talent and how to transform employees into your company's biggest competitive advantage.This episode is a recording from March 2025 of the third day of a three-part webinar series, brought to you by Catapult Employers Association and The Charlotte Ledger. The webinar series explores the key trends, technologies and shifts reshaping the workplace in 2025 and beyond.In this episode, The Charlotte Ledger's Tony Mecia talks with: ◼️ Dr. Carlie Houchins, who leads Catapult's learning solutions team responsible for designing, developing and deploying products; and◼️ Jill Feldman, the director of strategic HR services at Catapult.Here's the line-up for the other two episodes, which you can listen to on The Charlotte Ledger Podcast:Part 1: What's coming in 2025?Part 2: Rethinking your hiring strategyFind out more about Catapult at LetsCatapult.org. Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.This episode is sponsored by Catapult Employers Association. Catapult empowers Charlotte's business community with trusted, local HR expertise. Join Charlotte's top employers this April in Greensboro, NC, at their 2025 HR Conference: HResilient. Learn more at letscatapult.org/hresilient2025/. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

John Short, who writes the "Historical Heavyweights" column for The Charlotte Ledger, talks with Ledger editor Tony Mecia about Charlotte's most fascinating historical figures and the importance of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence and early settlers. They also discuss two of Short's other projects: The Charlotte Podcast (which has nearly 300 episodes) and the Elizabeth neighborhood's Halloween pumpkin wall (which Short helps organize).This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

North Carolina is home to world-class university research — but many groundbreaking ideas never make it beyond the lab. Now, a new nonprofit backed by state and private funds is working to turn university research into thriving businesses, with the goal of creating jobs and boosting the state's economy.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Michelle Bolas, executive vice president and chief innovation officer of NCInnovation, discusses how the organization works to bridge the gap between lab research and market-ready technology.In a conversation with Ledger editor Tony Mecia, Bolas discusses: why university research is important to the future of North Carolina; why private industry alone can't develop promising technologies; projects NCInnovation is supporting at UNC Charlotte, on water quality and electric grid stability; and how NCInnovation spends its money, and what it is doing with the $500 million allocated to it from North Carolina's General Assembly.You can find out more about NCInnovation at NCInnovation.org.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In 2005, a group of friends with a shared love of motorcycles, beer and barbecue opened a restaurant in an industrial area near uptown known as South End. Today, 20 years later, that restaurant — Mac's Speed Shop — has grown into a company with nine such restaurants in North and South Carolina, with more on the way.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Tony Salerno, president of Mac's Hospitality Group, talks with Ledger editor Tony Mecia about how this well-known fixture in Charlotte's restaurant scene has endured and continues to expand. They talk about challenges in the restaurant industry, how Mac's tries to stand out in a growing city, the importance of building a strong team, changes in technology and more. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

This week's podcast guest might sound a little familiar. You've been listening to his voice for more than two years.Steve Dunn regularly interviews winners of The Charlotte Ledger's 40 Over 40 Awards, which are awarded every spring to individuals over the age of 40 who are doing important and inspiring work in Charlotte.While podcasting has become a significant part of his work, Dunn's primary profession is mediation—following a career as an employment lawyer. As a mediator with Miles Mediation and Arbitration, Dunn brings his expertise in navigating complex conversations, a skill that translates seamlessly into his role as a podcast host. His approach to interviewing is marked by curiosity and a deep appreciation for the personal and professional journeys of his guests.Dunn sat down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to talk about his experiences hosting the podcast over the past couple of years, what he's learned during the process, and how his job in mediation translates into podcasting.You can find out more about the 40 Over 40 Awards, presented by U.S. Bank, here. Nominations are open until Feb. 17, 2025, with an awards celebration in May 2025.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Charlotte Center City Partners, an organization that promotes and advocates for uptown and South End, recently published its annual report on the state of the Center City in 2025.Charlotte Center City Partners President and CEO Michael Smith and James LaBar, senior vice president of economic development, recently sat down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to talk about the state of the center city and its upcoming plans for the area.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

The 2025 Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) Championship is set to take place at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte from May 12-18, 2025, bringing one of golf's four major championships back to the Queen City. Tournament Director Jason Soucy, who has spent decades in the sports industry, is leading the effort to organize the event, which is expected to draw global attention.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Soucy to talk about the magnitude of hosting a major championship, the planning to accommodate tens of thousands of fans each day, careers in sports management and the fan experience at Quail Hollow Club.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Michelle Crouch is a freelance writer and healthcare reporter for The Charlotte Ledger and North Carolina Health News, which is a nonprofit statewide newsroom that covers a variety of healthcare topics in North Carolina.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Crouch about the state of healthcare — why it is the way it is, and where it is heading. It's a recording of a conversation and Q&A session at The Sharon at South Park on Jan. 6, 2025. It is part of a monthly series of discussions at The Sharon on current events.In response to questions from Mecia and residents of The Sharon, Crouch also discusses the landscape of healthcare in Charlotte and how it affects patients, why there is a drive to consolidate healthcare, tips for consumers on how to navigate medical billing, the significance of the new medical school at The Pearl in Charlotte and the use of artificial intelligence in medicineFind out more about The Charlotte Ledger and subcribe to our newsletter at TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

One of the questions Charlotte Ledger founder and executive editor Tony Mecia is asked a lot is, “How is it going with The Ledger?” As we begin 2025, now is the traditional time to answer. In the spirit of transparency, we're giving you a peek behind the curtain of our operation.The Ledger published an article on Dec. 30, 2024, recapping the year, what The Ledger accomplished and what we hope to see in 2025. You can check it out here.But we wanted to take it a step further. Mecia recently sat down with Ledger Podcast host Steve Dunn to talk more in-depth about The Ledger's 2024, how we operate and where we're heading. In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, they discuss The Ledger's growth, its revenue, its business model, changes in media, where The Ledger fits into the local media landscape and more.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In 2018, Dr. Dale Owen and nearly 90 physicians left Atrium Health to form Tryon Medical Partners, driven by a vision of patient-centered care without the bureaucracy of large health systems. This bold move, initiated amidst legal battles and skepticism, aimed to prioritize personalized care and coordination while reducing costs.Fast forward six years, Tryon Medical now serves nearly 200,000 patients in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area, demonstrating the viability of independent practices despite immense challenges.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Owen recounts the obstacles faced in establishing Tryon Medical "out of air" — from securing facilities and staff to building insurance partnerships. In a conversation with The Ledger's Tony Mecia, he discusses the lessons he has learned building a medical practice, the challenges of Covid, the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system and Tryon's growth plans following a partnership with a private-equity investment company.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

For many people in Western North Carolina, everything changed on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024.Hurricane Helene brought record levels of rainfall, reaching as high as 30 inches in some places and triggering massive flooding and mudslides. Roads, buildings, trees, power lines and entire water systems were wiped out, affecting hundreds of thousands of people. More than 90 people died in North Carolina.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Ledger staff reporter Lindsey Banks about the storm and its aftermath. Banks is a Buncombe County native with close ties to Western North Carolina, and she spearheads The Ledger's Mountain Updates newsletter. The Ledger created it in September 2024 as a pop-up (temporary) newsletter focused on the crisis and recovery in the North Carolina mountains.The two talk about her experience growing up in the mountains, what it was like seeing her hometown destroyed by the hurricane, what her friends and family have described in the aftermath and the experience of reporting and writing about the mountains.All issues of Mountain Updates can be found online here. If you're not on The Ledger's email list, you can sign up for Mountain Updates and other newsletters at TheCharlotteLedger.com. Ledger subscribers can sign up for Mountain Updates on their account settings page.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia and elections specialist Sucharita Kodali quickly break down the Mecklenburg County ballot, including state legislative races, county commissioner races, local judicial elections and bonds.In less than 10 minutes, they zip through the under-the-radar races that many voters haven't considered but will find on the ballot.Check out the accompanying 10-minute podcast on statewide races, such as those for governor, lieutenant governor, insurance commissioner and attorney general.For full details on the candidates and the races, be sure to check out the Charlotte Ledger Election Hub at NCElectionHub.com. It has brief biographies of 200 candidates in five Charlotte-area counties (Mecklenburg, Union, Gaston, Cabarrus and Iredell), as well as links to candidate questionnaires and articles from other media.The goal is to provide you with trustworthy, unbiased information you can use to cast your vote.Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia and elections specialist Sucharita Kodali quickly break down the 14 statewide races on the 2024 general election ballot.In less than 10 minutes, they zip through the races that will be on the ballot for every North Carolinian: the Council of State — including races for governor, lieutenant governor, agriculture commissioner and so on — as well as statewide judicial races and a constitutional amendment.Check out the accompanying 10-minute podcast on the Mecklenburg ballot.For full details on the candidates and the races, be sure to check out the Charlotte Ledger Election Hub at NCElectionHub.com. It has brief biographies of 200 candidates in five Charlotte-area counties (Mecklenburg, Union, Gaston, Cabarrus and Iredell), as well as links to candidate questionnaires and articles from other media.The goal is to provide you with trustworthy, unbiased information you can use to cast your vote.Find out more about The Charlotte Ledger at TheCharlotteLedger.com.This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

While some Charlotteans might struggle to list even 50 must-do activities in the city, Axios reporter Brianna Crane faced the opposite challenge. In her new book, “100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die,” narrowing it down to just 100 was the hard part.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Crane talks with The Ledger's Tony Mecia about the challenges and excitement of curating a list that captures the essence of the city, balancing beloved staples with hidden gems that even longtime residents might not know. They also discuss advice for newcomers, what makes Charlotte distinctive from other cities and the process of writing a book.This episode is sponsored by HopeWay, a nonprofit mental health organization offering life-changing treatment and education. On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, HopeWay is hosting an evening with Alexi Pappas, an acclaimed Olympian, bestselling author and filmmaker, who will share her story of mental resilience and the lessons she learned along the way. To purchase tickets, visit hopeway.org.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

Effective leadership is key to building a thriving work environment and driving team success. Paulette Ashlin, founder and president of Ashlin Associates, is an executive and business coach with a knack for transforming workplace dynamics. With a career spanning various industries, she works to help leaders and teams thrive.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ashlin talks with The Ledger's Tony Mecia about the art of effective leadership and positive accountability. She shares insights and leadership tips from her latest book, “Five Actions of Positive Accountability,” explaining how clear expectations, constructive feedback and understanding individual motivations can significantly boost team performance.She also discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and adaptive communication, the 360-degree feedback process, how to have hard conversations, challenges of accountability, feedback techniques leaders can employ in their workplace and generational differences in what employees might need.This episode is sponsored by HopeWay, a nonprofit mental health organization offering life-changing treatment and education. On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, HopeWay is hosting an evening with Alexi Pappas, an acclaimed Olympian, bestselling author and filmmaker, who will share her story of mental resilience and the lessons she learned along the way. To purchase tickets, visit hopeway.org.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

What started as a small Charlotte restaurant in 1977 has since grown into a beloved brand with over 800 locations across 17 states, known for its fried chicken, biscuits and sweet tea.That's right, today we're talking about Bojangles.In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with Bojangles' chief marketing officer Tom Boland about how the chicken chain stays relevant in a fiercely competitive industry, how it innovates its menu and the thinking behind its expansion beyond the Southeast.We talk Bo-Berries, sports marketing, customer menu hacks that evolved into menu items, the "Bo-linda" AI drive-thru chatbot, UNC Chapel Hill's "biscuit boys," tailgating strategy, data analytics in fast food, the power of the WWE and many other intriguing topics.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe

As chair of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Planning Commission, Douglas Welton has a front-row seat to the complexities of Charlotte's rapid growth. In his role, he faces the challenges and opportunities presented by the city's expansion, engaging with developers, city staff and residents alike.Welton's tenure has been marked by a focus on increasing housing supply, advocating for density in appropriate areas and fostering community involvement. His vision for Charlotte's future is one of thoughtful growth, ensuring that the city remains vibrant and inclusive while addressing the practical realities of urban expansion.On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Welton talks with the Ledger's Tony Mecia about Charlotte's rapid growth, affordable housing challenges, transportation issues, public safety and future planning strategies to ensure balanced development and community well-being.This podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.Today's episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by SouthPark Community Partners, an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to lead SouthPark's advancement by driving economic vitality, creating memorable experiences, and ensuring an extraordinary quality of life.For more information about The Charlotte Ledger, or to sign up for our newsletters, visit TheCharlotteLedger.com. Get full access to The Charlotte Ledger at charlotteledger.substack.com/subscribe