In this Candidate Conversations episode of Make It Make Sense, Alabama, hosts Neeli Faulkner and Whitney Scapecchi sit down with Chad “Chig” Martin, a Democratic candidate for governor.

Chig shares his path from a blue-collar upbringing in Enterprise to building Thunder Industrial Supply, then launching Alabama’s first hemp dispensary, Honeysuckle Hemp Company. He lays out what he calls a citizens-driven movement, powered by small-dollar donations and volunteers. He argues Alabama needs less party-line politics and more problem solving that puts everyday people first.

The conversation covers big-picture priorities and specific proposals. Economic development and workforce training. Healthcare access and funding ideas, including a gambling-based revenue concept aimed at lowering costs and supporting rural hospitals. Prison reform through trade programs, parole and recidivism, and concerns about contracting and accountability inside the correctional system. Environmental protections, land use, and local pushback on major industrial projects, including carbon pipeline storage plans. Plus the political reality of campaign finance, media influence, and why voters across the state are paying closer attention than they used to.

This episode is part of our ongoing Candidate Conversations series, where we give voters space to hear directly from the people asking to represent them. It contains personal opinions and perspectives shared by our guest. Statements made during this conversation reflect the views of the speaker and have not been independently verified by Make It Make Sense, Alabama or Murder Creek Media. We are not endorsing any candidate or position. This interview is presented so listeners can hear directly from the guest and are encouraged to consult primary sources, public records, and multiple viewpoints when forming their own conclusions.

Make It Make Sense, Alabama is produced by Murder Creek Media. To learn more about our work or listen to other episodes, visit murdercreekmedia.com.