Q-POINT

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Ron Russell

“We Can’t Afford Our Schools.” — Russell On The Stakes Of Property-Tax Reform

Former Maine State Representative and Democratic candidate for Maine House District 17 Ron Russell joined Q-Point to discuss his campaign and legislative priorities. Russell shared how his decades of business experience shaped his approach to public service and representing his district.

Russell discussed property-tax relief, including his effort to expand the Property Tax Fairness Credit and help eligible seniors access assistance. He outlined his views on the homestead exemption, second-home taxation and the challenge of funding schools while keeping Maine residents in their homes.

The conversation also covered retirement benefits, youth-employment rules and Maine’s structural budget gap. Russell emphasized drawing on his business experience, working across party lines and weighing budget decisions against their effects on Maine residents, businesses and communities.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Joe Pratt

“We’re in a Hole, We Need to Stop Digging”
— Pratt On Changing Bangor’s Direction

Bangor City Council candidate Joe Pratt joined Q-Point to discuss his campaign, city government, and priorities for Bangor. He shared how his military service, career in finance, and nonprofit board experience shaped his approach to governance and his desire to restore professionalism and cooperation to the council.

Pratt argued that Bangor’s homelessness policies had not produced the intended results and called for consistent behavioral standards alongside access to services. He explained his opposition to Yellen Pines, advocated a commitment to treatment as a prerequisite to housing, and questioned whether funding existing service providers would have been a better approach.

The conversation also covered property taxes, nonprofit contributions toward city services, affordable housing, and Pratt’s opposition to rent control. He outlined opportunities to attract businesses, promote Bangor’s tourism and transportation assets, and expand waterfront activity, emphasizing effective council governance and a change in policy direction.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

 🎙️  Q-Point Podcast | Bobby Charles

“What I Say I Will Deliver, I Will Deliver”
— Charles On His Campaign Commitments

Republican gubernatorial nominee Bobby Charles joined Q-Point for part two of our conversation, focusing on his concerns about government accountability and his case to undecided voters. He discussed how his federal government experience shaped his proposals for managing state programs and taxpayer money.

Charles outlined allegations involving Hannah Pingree’s connections to nonprofits receiving state funding, including an $840,000 housing award, and called for an investigation and additional records. The hosts clarified that these remained allegations. He also discussed independent inspectors general, contractor reviews, and stronger whistleblower protections.

In a follow-up by phone, Charles addressed a separate federal MaineCare audit, explained why newly announced federal heating assistance did not change his proposed $207 million emergency relief plan, and responded to reporting about his personal financial disclosures. He emphasized oversight, financial accountability, and his commitment to delivering on his campaign proposals.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Bobby Charles

“We’re In The Rainy Day Right Now”
— Charles On Using Maine’s Reserve Fund

Republican gubernatorial nominee Bobby Charles joined Q-Point to discuss affordability and his proposals for Maine’s economy and state government. Drawing on his experience in federal government and business, he outlined how he would approach energy costs, taxes, and spending.

Charles proposed using Maine’s rainy day fund for a temporary gas-tax suspension, school heating support, and additional household heating assistance. He also discussed a $100,000 homestead exemption with full reimbursement to municipalities, expanded property-tax relief for veterans, and changes he said would lower energy costs.

The conversation also covered income taxes, small businesses, healthcare access, and his proposals to review state programs and strengthen oversight. Charles closed by discussing polling, voter turnout, and his priorities for making Maine more affordable.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Maine State Senator Mike Tipping

“It Is Under Attack.”
— Tipping On Rural Healthcare Infrastructure

Maine State Senator Mike Tipping joined Q-Point Podcast to discuss rural healthcare, pressures facing hospitals and birthing centers, and PCHC’s financial challenges. He outlined hospital ownership protections, MaineCare reimbursement concerns, and his proposal to prevent automated and AI-driven health insurance denials.

The conversation also covered DHHS and child welfare oversight, recommendations from OPEGA, state contracting, and questions surrounding the Lewiston response fund. Tipping discussed Maine’s projected budget gap, property taxes, nonprofit payments in lieu of taxes, and education funding for rural communities.

Additional topics included Paid Family and Medical Leave, minimum wage, workforce housing, apprenticeships, and right to repair. Tipping also discussed heating costs, bipartisan cooperation in Augusta, and his reelection rematch with Leo Kenney.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on:
QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

Sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-POINT PODCAST — MAINE GOVERNOR JANET MILLS

“If Anything, We May Have Provided Too Many Services.”
— Mills On The HHS Audit Of MaineCare Autism Services

Governor Janet Mills joined Corenna and David Quirk in studio to discuss Maine’s budget growth, housing affordability, property taxes, and her eight years in office.

Mills addressed the HHS audit of MaineCare autism services, separate fraud allegations involving providers, and changes in child welfare. The conversation also covered education, free community college, pandemic decisions, juvenile gun violence in Lewiston, and oversight of Lewiston response funds.

She closed by reflecting on her career, her legacy, and what comes next.

📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

This episode is prerecorded, produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, broker at NextHome Experience.

Views Disclosure: Q-Point Podcast invites guests and candidates from all parties to join the conversation. The views, information, opinions, and comments expressed during this program do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast, associates, or affiliates.

⬇️ 🎧 Stream On:
QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Leo Kenney

“A One-Sided Government Does Not Serve Its People.”
— Kenney On Political Balance In Augusta

Republican candidate Leo Kenney joined Q-Point to discuss his campaign for Maine Senate District 8 and his rematch against Senator Mike Tipping following a 132-vote loss in 2024. An Orono native, longtime small-business owner, and former town council and school board member, Kenney outlined his case for greater political balance and compromise in Augusta.

Kenney said affordability, particularly property taxes, was the leading concern he encountered with voters. He supported exploring means-tested relief through the homestead exemption for seniors and potentially first-time homebuyers, along with reviewing nonprofit payments in lieu of taxes. He also discussed energy costs, paid family and medical leave, and how state policies affect businesses and investment.

The conversation covered classroom management, child welfare oversight, rural hospitals, maternity services, and PCHC’s importance to the Bangor region. Kenney advocated timely hospital payments, stronger accountability, and safeguards for AI data centers rather than a blanket moratorium. He emphasized business experience, predictable policies, and reducing regulatory burdens as priorities he would bring to the Senate.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Anthony Cote

“I Think This Is A Turning Point For Bangor.”
— Cote On The City Council Election

Bangor City Council candidate Anthony Cote joined Q-Point to discuss why he entered the race and his priorities for the city. A local construction business owner and father, Cote described how attending council meetings and dissatisfaction with city decisions prompted his candidacy.

Cote outlined his concerns about public safety, homelessness, public drug use and the needle exchange program. He explained why he would have voted against Yellen Pines and discussed construction costs, zoning and permitting as barriers to housing development in Bangor.

The conversation also covered property taxes, city funding for nonprofits, school building decisions and his family’s homeschooling experience. Cote said he wanted to hold taxes steady, examine spending and give residents greater attention during public comments. He encouraged voters to research candidates, follow council voting records and remain involved beyond the election.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Amy Sussman — Part Two

“We Should All Be on the Same Side”
— Sussman On The Oversight Hearing

Continuing our conversation with Amy Sussman, aunt of Maxx Hathaway, we turn to the September 16 Government Oversight Committee hearing. Sussman describes her efforts to obtain answers about the Maine Community Foundation’s Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund for victims and their families.

Sussman questions how donations were distributed, including the $1.9 million she says went to nonprofits, and calls for a fuller investigation. She describes a possible shift at the hearing after Lewiston city council members asked for an investigation and committee members discussed inviting the foundation to answer questions.

In a phone update recorded afterward, Sussman disputes statements about her in materials associated with the Attorney General’s investigation. She says an email cited as an attempt to contact her went to the wrong address and that she plans to seek corrections. The episode closes with news that the committee scheduled another meeting for October 21 and invited the Maine Community Foundation.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

Send us Fan Mail

🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Amy Sussman  — Part One

“What He Wanted Most To Be Was A Dad”
— Sussman On Remembering Maxx Hathaway

Amy Sussman, aunt of Maxx Hathaway, joined Q-Point to remember her nephew, one of the 18 people killed in the Lewiston mass shooting, and to explain why she has been advocating for victims’ families and survivors. She described Maxx as a devoted father whose wife was pregnant with their child when he died.

Sussman questioned how donations to the Maine Community Foundation’s Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund were divided. She said donors and families understood the money would help people directly affected by the shooting, while approximately $1.9 million went to 29 nonprofits. She discussed the foundation’s separate donation options, whether donors understood how their gifts would be allocated, and the help survivors continue to need.

Sussman also described how one nonprofit redirected an equivalent amount to Victims First, raised concerns about the nonprofit grant process, and recounted a meeting with the Maine attorney general’s office. She said 57 people asked the office to reopen its investigation after additional documents came to light, but the office declined. She continues to seek answers about what families and donors were told.

📻 Airs statewide weekends on The Voice of Maine and WLOB Portland.

⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on: QPointPodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Amazon Music | YouTube Music

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Q-Point Podcast, its hosts, or its sponsors.

This episode was pre-recorded, produced, and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of  the information presented is made by your use.  The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility.  Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission.  The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.