Carolina Newsmakers: Recent Episodes
Carolina Newsmakers
A weekly public affairs program featuring stories that affect our day-to-day lives - from the local economy to crime to social programs to taxes and education.
Chris Cooper, the Robert Lee Madison Distinguished Professor of Political Science and director of the Haire Institute for Public Policy at Western Carolina University, joins Don Curtis to discuss Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11) ending his reelection campaign, the Senate committee contempt vote involving Dr. Anthony Fauci and the coming change in North Carolina Senate leadership. Cooper also looks at the broader political landscape and what it says about North Carolina heading into the 2026 election.
Public health advocate Peg O’Connell joins Don Curtis to discuss efforts to curb youth nicotine use, regulate emerging products such as nicotine pouches and strengthen North Carolina’s tobacco laws. She also examines Medicaid expansion, distracted driving, seat belt use and the challenges of building bipartisan support for public health initiatives.
BEST NC President and CEO Brenda Berg joins Don Curtis to discuss North Carolina’s new state budget and what it means for public education. She also examines teacher pay and retention, student achievement, workforce preparation and the future of education reform in the state.
Andy Ellen, President and General Counsel of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, discusses the retail and economic outlook for 2025, key legislative issues, technology’s role in shaping consumer habits and what’s ahead for the state’s retailers in 2026.
Former North Carolina Insurance Commissioner and DMV leader Wayne Goodwin joins Carolina Newsmakers to discuss DMV reform, insurance challenges, election changes and the importance of civility and public service,
Thomas Stith, CEO of The Michael Thomas Group & Fellow at UNC Kenan Institute, joins Don Curtis to talk about leadership, entrepreneurship, education and the values that have guided his life and service to North Carolina.
Allen Thomas, President & CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association, discusses how the hospitality industry fuels economic growth, tackles workforce challenges and shapes North Carolina’s future as a premier destination.
Tom Jensen, Director of Public Policy Polling, joins Don Curtis to break down North Carolina’s 2025 elections, redistricting battles, the U.S. Senate race, the federal shutdown debate and how tariffs are shaping voter attitudes.
Matt Calabria, Executive Director of GROW NC, joins Don Curtis to discuss the ongoing recovery in western NC following Hurricane Helene.
Mitch Kokai, Senior Political Analyst with John Locke Foundation, joins Don Curtis to break down bipartisan calls for Rep. Cecil Brockman to resign, a proposal to wipe medical debt for 2.5 million residents and the legislature’s return to redraw congressional maps. They also examine momentum for Lumbee federal recognition, a court ruling curbing the governor’s appointment powers and what potential U.S. Supreme Court moves on Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act could mean for representation.
In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, former NC Supreme Court justice Bob Orr delves into pressing issues such as the implications of Iryna's Law on the death penalty, the ongoing federal shutdown and the evolving landscape of NIL in college athletics.
In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler highlights the upcoming North Carolina State Fair, emphasizing its importance in showcasing the state's agricultural heritage and supporting local farmers. He also discusses new attractions and improvements at the fair, alongside the ongoing challenges farmers face, including recovery from Hurricane Helene.
This week on Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis talks with Mike Olender, state director of AARP North Carolina. They discuss the challenges facing older adults in North Carolina, from the rising cost of prescription drugs to housing and long-term care needs. Olender also shares insights on retirement security, fraud prevention and how communities across the state are working to become more age-friendly
This week on Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis talks with Bob Phillips about the shifting landscape of democracy and governance in North Carolina and beyond. They explore the latest redistricting developments in other states and how court battles over fair representation could shape the national map. The conversation also turns to the political climate following the Charlie Kirk assassination and how leaders, citizens and nonpartisan groups can begin to restore trust and civility in public discourse.
Former NC Governor Pat McCrory joins Don Curtis to discuss the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and the latest political developments in North Carolina and across the nation. McCrory also offers his perspective on state leadership, national politics and the challenges facing voters ahead of 2026.
Travis Fain from CTF Communications joins Don Curtis to break down the latest news from Washington - from Trump’s plan to exempt podcasters and influencers from tip taxes to a new round of tariffs that could raise drug prices. They also look at rising North Carolina test scores, record enrollment at Fayetteville State University and what Gov. Stein’s NC STRONG initiative means for the state’s future.
State Treasurer Brad Briner joins Don Curtis to talk about recent changes to the state health plan, stability of the state pension fund and recovering $170 million in unspent taxpayer dollars. They also discuss how the Treasurer's office is partnering with OpenAI to modernize investments and fight fraud.
North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest issues facing consumers, including disaster recovery, fraud prevention and insurance market trends.
Donna King, Executive Vice President of the John Locke Foundation, breaks down fresh polling on the 2026 U.S. Senate race, shifting views on tariffs and the latest on DMV reforms,
Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University, joins Don Curtis to discuss the impact of new tariffs on the NC economy. In addition, Dr. Walden examines the recent controversy over whether politics are impacting the federal agency responsible for releasing unemployment data,
Brad Crone, President of Campaign Connections, joins Don Curtis to examine the latest updates from the 2026 U.S. Senate race now that former Governor Roy Cooper (D) and RNC chair Michael Whatley have launched their respective campaigns.
PBS North Carolina CEO David Crabtree discusses the challenges and opportunities facing public media - including recent federal funding cuts and the future of statewide broadcasting. He also shares insights on educational outreach, emergency communications and building public trust in an increasingly polarized media landscape.
Dr. David McLennan joins Don Curtis to discuss the political fallout from proposed cuts to Medicaid and public broadcasting. They also look ahead to North Carolina’s 2026 Senate race and the legal fight over FEMA grants.
NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall joins Don Curtis to talk about the rise in new business creation and rural entrepreneurship. She also shares insights on counterfeit threats and new research shaping North Carolina’s economic future.
Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation analyzes U.S. Senator Thom Tillis’ decision to not seek re-election along with what the so-called Big Beautiful Bill actually means for NC.
Political strategist Brad Crone joins Don Curtis to break down the stalled state budget and newly approved Hurricane Helene relief. Plus, they dive into the shrimp trawler controversy and what’s next for the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.”
Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause NC, joins Don Curtis to discuss the group’s ongoing lawsuit challenging the current legislative districts. They also talk about whether state lawmakers can reach an agreement on the budget.
Former Governor Pat McCrory joins Don Curtis to break down the JetZero project bringing 14,000 jobs to the Triad, President Trump’s proposal to phase out FEMA as well as the latest on the federal budget.
Long-time journalist turned consultant Travis Fain joins Don Curtis to dive into the debate over the state auditor’s expanded powers, Governor Stein’s push for cannabis regulation and Amazon’s major AI investment in Richmond County.
Long-time journalist turned consultant Travis Fain joins Don Curtis to dive into the debate over the state auditor’s expanded powers, Governor Stein’s push for cannabis regulation and Amazon’s major AI investment in Richmond County.
Donna King, Executive Vice President from the John Locke Foundation, joins Don Curtis for a deep dive into Trump’s trade policy, state budget negotiations and the debate over health care regulation.
Donna King, Executive Vice President from the John Locke Foundation, joins Don Curtis for a deep dive into Trump’s trade policy, state budget negotiations and the debate over health care regulation.
Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins Don Curtis to talk hurricane prep, vacation safety tips and how to protect your home and health this summer. From rip currents to Medicare savings, don’t miss this essential conversation for North Carolinians.
Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins Don Curtis to talk hurricane prep, vacation safety tips and how to protect your home and health this summer. From rip currents to Medicare savings, don’t miss this essential conversation for North Carolinians.
Are tariffs bringing jobs back home? NC State University economist Dr. Mike Walden breaks down President Trump’s latest trade deals — and what they could mean for North Carolina’s manufacturing future.
Are tariffs bringing jobs back home? NC State University economist Dr. Mike Walden breaks down President Trump’s latest trade deals — and what they could mean for North Carolina’s manufacturing future.
Tom Jensen with Public Policy Polling will join Don Curtis to talk about the shifting political landscape that could lead to more competitive elections.
NC State University political science professor Steven Greene joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest political headlines, including Donald Trump’s campaign messaging, voter behavior in a polarized era and the impact of tariffs and legal battles on the 2026 election landscape.
NC State University political science professor Steven Greene joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest political headlines, including President Donald Trump’s campaign messaging, voter behavior in a polarized era and the impact of tariffs and legal battles on the 2026 election landscape.
Chris Brandenburg, Manager of State and Federal Advocacy for AARP North Carolina, discusses a new proposal that could help address the health care worker shortage in North Carolina. Brandenburg also talks with Don Curtis about changes at the federal level that could impact Social Security beneficiaries.
Chris Brandenburg, Manager of State and Federal Advocacy for AARP North Carolina, discusses a new proposal that could help address the health care worker shortage in North Carolina. Brandenburg also talks with Don Curtis about changes at the federal level that could impact Social Security beneficiaries.
Karen Brinson Bell, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, joins us to share important deadlines for the 2024 election, what to know about voter ID, and the latest on absentee ballots.
Dr. Nathan Dollar, Director of Carolina Demography, is this week's guest as we dive into the changing population dynamics of North Carolina. Where the state's growth is coming from, which areas are losing population, and important trends to watch going forward.
Lee Roberts, Interim Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discusses student debt, athletics, admissions and much more in this episode.
Lee Roberts, Interim Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discusses student debt, athletics, admissions and much more in this episode.
Cecilia Holden, President and CEO of myFutureNC joins us to discuss education and attainment demands that face our growing state.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Administration Pamela Cashwell is our guest as we explore the many duties of her department.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Administration Pamela Cashwell is our guest as we explore the many duties of her department.
Executive Director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections Karen Brinson Bell outlines the biggest changes when it comes to Voter ID, how the State Board of Elections operates, and the potential impact of redistricting.
David Crabtree, Chief Executive Officer of PBS North Carolina, discusses the future of public television, the value of local programming, and shares his thoughts on the evolution of broadcasting and news media.
David Crabtree, Chief Executive Officer of PBS North Carolina, discusses the future of public television, the value of local programming, and shares his thoughts on the evolution of broadcasting and news media.
Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Insurance Mike Causey explains auto insurance rate increases, important coverage not included in most homeowner policies, and his role as fire marshal.
Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Insurance Mike Causey explains auto insurance rate increases, important coverage not included in most homeowner policies, and his role as fire marshal.
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System, discusses his new role, the system's collaborations with the K-12 and University systems, and the financial value community colleges provide.
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System, discusses his new role, the system's collaborations with the K-12 and University systems, and the financial value community colleges provide.
President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone shares his perspective on the Trump indictments, the NC Governor's race, council of state positions, and gaming legislation.
President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone shares his perspective on the Trump indictments, the NC Governor's race, council of state positions, and gaming legislation.
Steve Lawler, President and CEO of the North Carolina Healthcare Association speaks on Medicaid Expansion, cost of health care, cost of prescription drugs, and challenges facing urban and rural hospitals.
Steve Lawler, President and CEO of the North Carolina Healthcare Association speaks on Medicaid Expansion, cost of health care, cost of prescription drugs, and challenges facing urban and rural hospitals.
Rev. Bruce Stanley, President and CEO of the Methodist Home for Children, discusses child services, mental health, bullying and foster care in North Carolina.
Rev. Bruce Stanley, President and CEO of the Methodist Home for Children, discusses child services, mental health, bullying and foster care in North Carolina.
North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Wayne Goodwin details how the DMV operates, what you need to know about REAL ID and what's being done to improve wait times.
North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Wayne Goodwin details how the DMV operates, what you need to know about REAL ID and what's being done to improve wait times.
Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kevin Guskiewicz shares his thoughts on the challenges facing higher education in the state, the future of athletics and the impact of the US Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action.
Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kevin Guskiewicz shares his thoughts on the challenges facing higher education in the state, the future of athletics and the impact of the US Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action.
President of the John William Pope Foundation John Hood is this week's guest as we review U.S. Supreme Court decisions on Affirmative Action and redistricting. We go over the latest on abortion, sports betting and transgender-related issues being discussed by the North Carolina General Assembly.
President of the John William Pope Foundation John Hood is this week's guest as we review U.S. Supreme Court decisions on Affirmative Action and redistricting. We go over the latest on abortion, sports betting and transgender-related issues being discussed by the North Carolina General Assembly.
President of the North Carolina Sheriff's Association Charles Blackwood joins us to discuss how Sheriff's offices operate throughout the state, the needs of law enforcement, and common misconceptions.
President of the North Carolina Sheriff's Association Charles Blackwood joins us to discuss how Sheriff's offices operate throughout the state, the needs of law enforcement, and common misconceptions.
Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina Bob Phillips discusses redistricting and legislation that would impact mail-in voting and same-day registration.
Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina Bob Phillips discusses redistricting and legislation that would impact mail-in voting and same-day registration.
Retired NC State Economics Professor Dr. Mike Walden shares his thoughts on the economic impact of the debt ceiling deal, where we stand with inflation and recession, and gives an outlook on the housing market.
Retired NC State Economics Professor Dr. Mike Walden shares his thoughts on the economic impact of the debt ceiling deal, where we stand with inflation and recession, and gives an outlook on the housing market.
Director of Public Policy Polling Tom Jensen joins us to analyze political races including president and governor. Tom also shares what he believes are the biggest factors that can change political opinions.
Director of Public Policy Polling Tom Jensen joins us to analyze political races including president and governor. Tom also shares what he believes are the biggest factors that can change political opinions.
NC State University Chancellor Randy Woodson joins us to discuss higher education and opportunities that we can seize to improve.
NC State University Chancellor Randy Woodson joins us to discuss higher education and opportunities that we can seize to improve.
State Treasurer Dale Folwell has the latest on the state health plan and how inflation impacts the state's finances.
State Treasurer Dale Folwell has the latest on the state health plan and how inflation impacts the state's finances.
CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Christopher Chung discusses the latest on luring new businesses to North Carolina.
CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Christopher Chung discusses the latest on luring new businesses to North Carolina.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Eric Boyette joins us to provide an update on the state's transportation needs, the status funding and what's on the horizon.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation Eric Boyette joins us to provide an update on the state's transportation needs, the status funding and what's on the horizon.
President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone joins us to discuss Supreme Court rulings on redistricting and voter ID. We also explore what's on the table in the legislative session and take a look at the 2024 elections.
President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone joins us to discuss Supreme Court rulings on redistricting and voter ID. We also explore what's on the table in the legislative session and take a look at the 2024 elections.
President of the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center, Patrick Woodie, joins us to discuss the successes and challenges facing rural counties in the state.
President of the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center, Patrick Woodie, joins us to discuss the successes and challenges facing rural counties in the state.
North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein joins us to discuss fentanyl and the opioid crisis, as well as various lawsuits.
North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein joins us to discuss fentanyl and the opioid crisis, as well as various lawsuits.
President of the John William Pope Foundation, John Hood, provides analysis of the indictment of Donald Trump, the 2024 North Carolina governor's race, and what's next for the general assembly with a supermajority in the House.
President of the John William Pope Foundation, John Hood, provides analysis of the indictment of Donald Trump, the 2024 North Carolina governor's race, and what's next for the general assembly with a supermajority in the House.
Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Wake Tech Community College, discusses the latest innovations in the community college system and how this resource impacts local areas.
Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Wake Tech Community College, discusses the latest innovations in the community college system and how this resource impacts local areas.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Kody Kinsley discusses behavioral health and resilience, the response to COVID-19 and Medicaid expansion.
Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Kody Kinsley discusses behavioral health and resilience, the response to COVID-19 and Medicaid expansion.
Lynn Minges, President and CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, joins us to assess food and hospitality industries in the state.
Lynn Minges, President and CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, joins us to assess food and hospitality industries in the state.
President of BEST NC, Brenda Berg, showcases a new report related to teacher pay and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing K-12 education in the state.
President of BEST NC, Brenda Berg, showcases a new report related to teacher pay and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing K-12 education in the state.
North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins us to discuss the latest on insurance rates, what you need to know about scams, and tips for your policies.
North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins us to discuss the latest on insurance rates, what you need to know about scams, and tips for your policies.
Professor of Economics, Dr. Mike Walden, discusses the economic outlook of North Carolina and also dives into the impact of Asia on the global economy.
Professor of Economics, Dr. Mike Walden, discusses the economic outlook of North Carolina and also dives into the impact of Asia on the global economy.
Representative John Bell, NC House Speaker and representative of District 10, joins us to discuss the current legislative session, including Medicaid expansion, sports betting and more.
Representative John Bell, NC House Speaker and representative of District 10, joins us to discuss the current legislative session, including Medicaid expansion, sports betting and more.
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx joins the program to discuss education, the national debt and foreign affairs.
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx joins the program to discuss education, the national debt and foreign affairs.
Director of Public Policy Polling, Tom Jensen, provides analysis of the 2024 NC governor's race and the 2024 presidential race.
Director of Public Policy Polling, Tom Jensen, provides analysis of the 2024 NC governor's race and the 2024 presidential race.
Political strategist and President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone joins us to discuss the Governor's race, council of state positions and hot issues in the state legislation.
Political strategist and President of Campaign Connections Brad Crone joins us to discuss the Governor's race, council of state positions and hot issues in the state legislation.
Andy Ellen, President of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, discusses inflation and rising retail prices, when we can see relief, and what legislation could be impacting retailers.
Andy Ellen, President of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, discusses inflation and rising retail prices, when we can see relief, and what legislation could be impacting retailers.
North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell discuss the changes being made to the state health plan, as well as the impact on inflation and interest changes on state funds.
North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell discuss the changes being made to the state health plan, as well as the impact on inflation and interest changes on state funds.
Wendy Harris, Past President of the North Carolina Association of Realtors, joins us to discuss the outlook of the real estate market in 2023.
Wendy Harris, Past President of the North Carolina Association of Realtors, joins us to discuss the outlook of the real estate market in 2023.
John Hood, President of the John William Pope Foundation, joins us to discuss the biggest political stories of 2022 and what to expect in 2023.
John Hood, President of the John William Pope Foundation, joins us to discuss the biggest political stories of 2022 and what to expect in 2023.
President of the North Carolina Healthcare Association, Steve Lawler, joins us to discuss the challenges facing hospitals as the state grows, the potential impact of Medicaid expansion and the role of certificates of need.
President of the North Carolina Healthcare Association, Steve Lawler, joins us to discuss the challenges facing hospitals as the state grows, the potential impact of Medicaid expansion and the role of certificates of need.
Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, joins us to discuss legislative priorities in 2023.
Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, joins us to discuss legislative priorities in 2023.
La Dra. Graciela A Rust nos da algunos consejos acerca de como mantener una buena Salud Mental durante las Fiestas Navideñas.
Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, discuss the U.S. Supreme Court redistricting case and where redistricting is headed in North Carolina.
Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, discuss the U.S. Supreme Court redistricting case and where redistricting is headed in North Carolina.
Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Agricultural and Resource Economics at NC State University, joins us to discuss the economic outlook for 2023.
Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Agricultural and Resource Economics at NC State University, joins us to discuss the economic outlook for 2023.
North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall discusses a record year for charitable giving in the state and tips for starting a business.
North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall discusses a record year for charitable giving in the state and tips for starting a business.
Brad Crone, President of Campaign Connections, provides more clarity on the midterm election results.
Brad Crone, President of Campaign Connections, provides more clarity on the midterm election results.