Charlotte Talks With Mike Collins

By WFAE

What's Charlotte Talks With Mike Collins about?

Launched in April 1998, Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins has become the region's exclusive forum for the discussion of politics, arts, culture, social issues, literature, human interest, the environment and more.

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Charlotte Talks With Mike Collins episodes:

06.26.2024
More than halfway through the season, Charlotte FC has shown a lot of heart. But, can the young soccer team keep it going?
As Charlotte FC enters the second half of the Major League Soccer season, we look at what their past performance this year might mean for the rest of the season — and their playoff hopes.
06.25.2024
Charlotte City Council's vote on Bank of America Stadium renovation contribution
On the morning after Charlotte City Council votes to use $650 million to help Tepper Sports with stadium renovations, we take measure of what the decision will mean.
06.24.2024
April Simpkins, mother of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, shares her late daughter's accomplishments and struggles in new book
The story of Cheslie Kryst, former Miss USA, as told in the manuscript she left behind — which became the book, “By The Time You Read This." Her mother, April Simpkins, joins us to share her late daughter's story and...
06.21.2024
Local News Roundup: Public comments about stadium renovations; tension at County Commission meeting; new CATS management agreement
On the local news roundup: a public hearing on the Panthers’ request for stadium remodeling funds gives city council “a lot to think about.” Tension at the county commission meeting regarding Pride Month. Meanwhile, Mecklenburg County Commission approves a new...
06.20.2024
Charlotte faith leaders learn lessons from Northern Ireland, unite to avoid more political violence in America
A group of Charlotte faith leaders went to Northern Ireland to understand The Troubles. They join Mike Collins to discuss what they learned and how it can be applied to the United States.
06.19.2024
A conversation with Dr. Joyce Payne, founder of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund
Dr. Joyce Payne, who has devoted herself to helping fund higher education for African American students since the 1980s, joins us to talk about the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.
06.18.2024
Investigative series '40 Acres and a Lie' explores the history of a government program that gave formerly enslaved people land titles, only to take the land back
On the next Charlotte Talks, we hear from the reporters who worked to reveal how dozens of Black families were denied intergenerational wealth when the federal government took their land after the Civil War.
06.17.2024
'Where I Belong': A conversation with musician Rockie Lynne Rash
Mike Collins meets and hears the story behind Rockie Lynne Rash’s rise through the ranks of successful country music artists.
06.14.2024
Local News Roundup: Public reaction to renovations plan at Bank of America Stadium; Kamala Harris in the Queen City; Charlotte budget approved with tax increase
Not everyone is excited about supporting Bank of America stadium renovations to the tune of $650 million. VP Kamala Harris comes to Charlotte. And we move closer to making the dream of the Red Line train to Davidson a reality.
06.13.2024
How to find joy in a chaotic world
On the next Charlotte Talks, how to find the joy in life even when you’re down, even when things aren’t going your way, even when the news makes you want to scream.
06.12.2024
Hurricane season is expected to be very active — what role is climate change playing? Plus, a closer look at our local weather reporting
What to expect this hurricane season, and how climate change is playing a role? Plus, a closer look at how we report on the weather in the Charlotte area.
06.11.2024
What the Bank of America Stadium upgrades would mean for Charlotte
Tepper Sports has asked the city for $650 million to modernize Bank of America Stadium. In return, the Panthers and Charlotte FC will commit to staying here at least until the 2040s.
06.10.2024
'Unjust Debts' author on bankruptcy and the injustice baked in
UNC-Chapel Hill professor and author Melissa Jacoby on how the bankruptcy system can take advantage of the poor and be used as a tool for those who have done wrong to skirt responsibility.
06.07.2024
Local News Roundup: Bank of America Stadium upgrade discussion; County approves one cent tax hike; new ad in NC governor's race in national news
Charlotte business leaders say Bank of America Stadium needs upgrades for Charlotte to be a “big league city.” Mecklenburg County Commissioners approved a one-cent tax increase to help cover the $2.5 billion budget voted on this week. And a new...
06.06.2024
'When The Sea Came Alive' author on the 80th anniversary of D-Day
In the new book, author Garrett Graff tells the story of D-Day from those who experienced it firsthand.
06.05.2024
'Parliamentary America' author Maxwell Stearns on fixing our democratic system
Many believe our politics and our government are broken — both sides seem able to agree on that. Part of the problem may be that our 18th-century system isn’t a good fit for 21st-century realities. Law professor Maxwell Stearns has...
06.04.2024
What went well this school year, what needs improvement, and what are the priorities for fall 2024? We check in with members of the CMS Board of Education to find out
On the next Charlotte Talks, a conversation with three of the nine members of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education about the challenges they face and about their goals and priorities.
06.03.2024
A look at rent-to-own and other alternative home buying options
The housing market is making it very difficult for first-time buyers to find a home they can afford. Some are taking a different approach: rent-to-own. Is this a good idea? Are there pitfalls to be aware of?
05.31.2024
Local News Roundup: A breakthrough on the Red Line, but Silver Line to Matthews may be dead; street takeovers a problem again; Stewart Haas Racing to close
The city of Charlotte has an agreement in principle with Norfolk Southern to use its tracks, which may pave the way for commuter rail to Iredell County. The Silver Line to Matthews may be dead. Street Takeovers are once again...
05.29.2024
AI and the election
A closer look at a new poll on artificial intelligence and the role AI may play in the 2024 election.
05.28.2024
Barbara Walters broke barriers for women in journalism — the new book 'Rulebreaker' reveals who Walters was as a person
On the next Charlotte Talks, broadcast pioneer Barbara Walters paved the way for women in TV, and now her story is told in Susan Page’s new book, "Rulebreaker." Page joins us for the hour to discuss Walters' life, work and...
05.27.2024
Author Jack Claiborne on his new book, 'Charlotte, the Slugger, and Me: Coming-of-Age Story of a Southern City and Two Tenacious Brothers'
Newcomers often wonder where old Charlotte is in our glowing New South city. Much of it is in the minds and memories of those who have lived here for generations. Jack Claiborne and his brother, Slug, fall into that category...
05.24.2024
Local News Roundup: Local leaders react to tax increases in budgets; Madalina Cojocari's parents in court; ACC Tournament in Charlotte
Both Charlotte City Council and Mecklenburg County Commission members react to tax increases in their respective budgets this week. The parents of the missing Cornelius girl Madalina Cojocari are in court. A Mecklenburg County Commissioner-elect has been arrested and charged...
05.23.2024
From raised beds to potted plants, we've got your gardening questions covered
With spring gardening underway, we turn to local experts with tips on how to make your garden grow.
05.22.2024
Mecklenburg County manager, budget director on proposed budget
We zoom in on the Mecklenburg County proposed budget, including why leaders are asking for a tax increase.
05.21.2024
COVID-19 mutates again just in time for summer. How concerned should you be?
COVID-19 continues to "FLiRT" with us. In fact, that is the name of the new variant making its way through the population.
05.20.2024
David Fleming discusses the wild story of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence
The author of the book "Who's Your Founding Father" joins guest host Erik Spanberg as we celebrate "MecDec Day." It's a day that commemorates the signing of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence on May 20, 1775.
05.17.2024
Local News Roundup: Mecklenburg County manager's proposed budget; city workers concerned about pay; private school voucher supporter criticizes NC
Mecklenburg County Manager Dena Diorio presents next year's proposed budget. Charlotte city workers have concerns about pay. A private school voucher supporter says North Carolina has gone too far. And the Carolina Panthers will play in Germany. Mike Collins and...
05.16.2024
A look at this spring's campus protests and what may lie ahead
Protesters have impacted many schools including UNC Charlotte and UNC-Chapel Hill. Some graduation ceremonies have been disrupted; others canceled. Schools have taken different approaches to the protests. We look back and ahead to what the summer and fall might hold.
05.15.2024
Cicadas emerge in the Charlotte region and around much of the US
The emergence of two cicada broods this year in parts of the U.S. — including ours — means that trillions of these bugs will be singing their mating song. And who can blame them, they’ve been underground for 13 years....
05.14.2024
Authors of 'Witch Hunt: The Cold War, Joe McCarthy, and the Red Scare' join us to discuss how the lessons of the past impact us today
We sit down with the authors of "Witch Hunt: The Cold War, Joe McCarthy, and the Red Scare." Originally written for young adult and teen audiences, the authors shed light on the human stories behind historical events, ensuring that the...
05.13.2024
As we pass another Mother's Day, what is the cost of motherhood?
Women are waiting longer and longer to start a family. Part of this is to be prepared for the cost of motherhood. Not just the financial cost, but the physical and mental toll, as well. Guest host Sarah Delia and...
05.10.2024
Local News Roundup: Deadly storm hits Charlotte area; Property tax increase in Charlotte's proposed budget; Protests at UNC Charlotte; NC voter ID trial
Charlotte’s city manager proposes a property tax increase in his latest budget. Protests over the war in Gaza continue at UNC Charlotte. And the fate of North Carolina’s voter ID law is in the hands of a judge. Mike Collins...
05.09.2024
April Simpkins, mother of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, shares her late daughter's accomplishments and struggles in new book
The story of Cheslie Kryst, former Miss USA, as told in the manuscript she left behind — which became the book, “By The Time You Read This." Her mother, April Simpkins, joins us to share her late daughter's story and...
05.08.2024
Mayor Vi Lyles and City Manager Marcus Jones breakdown newly proposed Charlotte city budget
It’s budget time — and with inflation, rising wages, and a desire to expand services, City Manager Marcus Jones says a tax hike is necessary. We'll go through the details with Jones and Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles.
05.07.2024
An update on the proposed I-77 expansion project
Mike Collins and our panel of guests explore the future of adding toll lanes south of uptown on I-77 and the challenges that presents.
05.06.2024
A federal trial will determine the fate of North Carolina's voter ID law. We take a closer look as the proceedings begin
On the next Charlotte Talks, a conversation about what’s at stake as the federal trial that will determine the fate of our state’s voter ID law gets underway.
05.03.2024
Local News Roundup: 4 officers die in shooting; college protests over the war in Gaza; CMS budget; a win for transgender health care in NC
Four law enforcement officers were shot and killed in Charlotte’s deadliest day for law enforcement. Protesters are arrested at UNC-Chapel Hill. And the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools board plans to send a slightly less expensive budget to the county.
05.02.2024
'Where I Belong': A conversation with musician Rockie Lynne Rash
Mike Collins meets and hears the story behind Rockie Lynne Rash’s rise through the ranks of successful country music artists. The Statesville native joins Charlotte Talks.
05.01.2024
The latest on tragic shooting deaths of law enforcement officers in Charlotte this week
The latest details on the tragic shooting deaths of four law enforcement officers and the injury of four others in an incident that unfolded Monday in east Charlotte.
04.30.2024
The NC General Assembly short session is underway. What can we expect?
We preview some of the items the legislature will be grappling with in their short session. That includes education funding, immigration, and what to do with a budget surplus.
04.29.2024
The ins and outs of the proposed CMS budget
On the next Charlotte Talks, CMS Superintendent Dr. Crystal Hill and the system’s chief financial officer share details of their budget request for next year. WFAE education reporter Ann Doss Helms join us as well.
04.27.2024
Local News Roundup: Panthers get a first round pick after all; CMS budget; Judge Elizabeth Trosch is out in Mecklenburg; District 41's election protest case dismissed
On the Local News Roundup: CMS hears public comments on next year’s budget. The state’s chief justice makes a change at the district court level replacing Judge Elizabeth Trosch. The United Methodist Church holds its General Conference in Charlotte determining...
04.25.2024
Howl in delight: WFAE's Tommy Tomlinson's new book 'Dogland' is out now
On the next Charlotte Talks, our own Tommy Tomlinson shares what he discovered on his three-year quest to find out if show dogs are happy.
04.24.2024
More than fine: A conversation with Indigo Girls' Amy Ray and Emily Saliers
On the next Charlotte Talks, we’re joined by Amy Ray and Emily Saliers. You know them as The Indigo Girls. This highly successful duo is experiencing another peak in their career with one of their songs featured in Greta Gerwig’s...
04.23.2024
What are the current priorities and goals of the Mecklenburg County Commissioners? We check in to find out
On the next Charlotte Talks, a conversation with three of the nine members of the Mecklenburg County Commission — about the challenges they face and their goals and priorities.
04.22.2024
In the Eye of the Storm: A conversation from WFAE's Carolinas Climate Summit
The Carolinas are in the eye of the storm when it comes to feeling the impact of climate change. Mike Collins and guests discuss why and what’s being done about it.
04.19.2024
Local News Roundup: CMPD says homicides are up; new Ballantyne development; Wegmans coming to the Queen City
On this week's local news roundup: homicides are up in Charlotte this year by 31%. A new development is coming to Ballantyne with housing and a new school. Plus – the popular grocery store Wegmans is coming. Those stories and...
04.18.2024
Author Charles Frazier discusses his book 'The Trackers'
Set amid the Great Depression, the novel tells the story of a painter who travels to a rural town in Wyoming. Guest host Erik Spanberg sits down with Frazier to discuss the book, Frazier's past work and the role North...
04.17.2024
Democrats hope to take NC in 2024. Is that realistic?
President Biden and Vice President Harris have been spending a lot of time in North Carolina touting their accomplishments as part of their reelection campaign. That said, a Democratic presidential candidate has only won the state twice in about 50...

What's Charlotte Talks With Mike Collins about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Charlotte Talks With Mike Collins episodes:

More than halfway through the season, Charlotte FC has shown a lot of heart. But, can the young soccer team keep it going?

Charlotte City Council's vote on Bank of America Stadium renovation contribution

April Simpkins, mother of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, shares her late daughter's accomplishments and struggles in new book

Local News Roundup: Public comments about stadium renovations; tension at County Commission meeting; new CATS management agreement

Charlotte faith leaders learn lessons from Northern Ireland, unite to avoid more political violence in America

A conversation with Dr. Joyce Payne, founder of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund

Investigative series '40 Acres and a Lie' explores the history of a government program that gave formerly enslaved people land titles, only to take the land back

'Where I Belong': A conversation with musician Rockie Lynne Rash

Local News Roundup: Public reaction to renovations plan at Bank of America Stadium; Kamala Harris in the Queen City; Charlotte budget approved with tax increase

How to find joy in a chaotic world

Hurricane season is expected to be very active — what role is climate change playing? Plus, a closer look at our local weather reporting

What the Bank of America Stadium upgrades would mean for Charlotte

'Unjust Debts' author on bankruptcy and the injustice baked in

Local News Roundup: Bank of America Stadium upgrade discussion; County approves one cent tax hike; new ad in NC governor's race in national news

'When The Sea Came Alive' author on the 80th anniversary of D-Day

'Parliamentary America' author Maxwell Stearns on fixing our democratic system

What went well this school year, what needs improvement, and what are the priorities for fall 2024? We check in with members of the CMS Board of Education to find out

A look at rent-to-own and other alternative home buying options

Local News Roundup: A breakthrough on the Red Line, but Silver Line to Matthews may be dead; street takeovers a problem again; Stewart Haas Racing to close

AI and the election

Barbara Walters broke barriers for women in journalism — the new book 'Rulebreaker' reveals who Walters was as a person

Author Jack Claiborne on his new book, 'Charlotte, the Slugger, and Me: Coming-of-Age Story of a Southern City and Two Tenacious Brothers'

Local News Roundup: Local leaders react to tax increases in budgets; Madalina Cojocari's parents in court; ACC Tournament in Charlotte

From raised beds to potted plants, we've got your gardening questions covered

Mecklenburg County manager, budget director on proposed budget

COVID-19 mutates again just in time for summer. How concerned should you be?

David Fleming discusses the wild story of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence

Local News Roundup: Mecklenburg County manager's proposed budget; city workers concerned about pay; private school voucher supporter criticizes NC

A look at this spring's campus protests and what may lie ahead

Cicadas emerge in the Charlotte region and around much of the US

Authors of 'Witch Hunt: The Cold War, Joe McCarthy, and the Red Scare' join us to discuss how the lessons of the past impact us today

As we pass another Mother's Day, what is the cost of motherhood?

Local News Roundup: Deadly storm hits Charlotte area; Property tax increase in Charlotte's proposed budget; Protests at UNC Charlotte; NC voter ID trial

April Simpkins, mother of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, shares her late daughter's accomplishments and struggles in new book

Mayor Vi Lyles and City Manager Marcus Jones breakdown newly proposed Charlotte city budget

An update on the proposed I-77 expansion project

A federal trial will determine the fate of North Carolina's voter ID law. We take a closer look as the proceedings begin

Local News Roundup: 4 officers die in shooting; college protests over the war in Gaza; CMS budget; a win for transgender health care in NC

'Where I Belong': A conversation with musician Rockie Lynne Rash

The latest on tragic shooting deaths of law enforcement officers in Charlotte this week

The NC General Assembly short session is underway. What can we expect?

The ins and outs of the proposed CMS budget

Local News Roundup: Panthers get a first round pick after all; CMS budget; Judge Elizabeth Trosch is out in Mecklenburg; District 41's election protest case dismissed

Howl in delight: WFAE's Tommy Tomlinson's new book 'Dogland' is out now

More than fine: A conversation with Indigo Girls' Amy Ray and Emily Saliers

What are the current priorities and goals of the Mecklenburg County Commissioners? We check in to find out

In the Eye of the Storm: A conversation from WFAE's Carolinas Climate Summit

Local News Roundup: CMPD says homicides are up; new Ballantyne development; Wegmans coming to the Queen City

Author Charles Frazier discusses his book 'The Trackers'

Democrats hope to take NC in 2024. Is that realistic?