Kathy Batt, a US Army veteran and former FBI special agent, is running for the North Carolina State Senate in District 24. She shares how her experiences in the military and FBI have shaped her political views and inspired her candidacy. Batt underscores the crucial role of public education and advocates for increased funding in North Carolina, criticizing the Republican-led legislature for defunding public education and reallocating resources to private schools. She also addresses the impact of racism and white supremacy on policymaking and calls for unity among working and middle-class individuals to combat systemic inequalities.

In this discourse, we cover a range of political topics, emphasizing the importance of sound economic policies, the challenge of engaging voters who act against their own interests, and the necessity for improved education and infrastructure. We also discuss the effects of climate change on marginalized communities and low-lying areas, and highlights the potential for economic growth through renewable energy initiatives. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the anti-masking bill and the importance of fostering joy and progress in politics.

Braxton Winston, candidate for North Carolina's next commissioner of labor, joins the podcast to discuss his background and vision for the role. He emphasizes the importance of workers' rights and safety, as well as the need for collaboration between different levels of government and industries. Winston shares stories of labor issues, including wage theft and human trafficking, and highlights the role of the Department of Labor in addressing these issues. He also discusses the opportunities and challenges of the transition to renewable energy and the importance of workforce development in preparing workers for the jobs of the future.

Meet Daniel Franch, the dynamic regional organizing director for the Piedmont region of the North Carolina Democratic Party. Daniel’s transition from a compassionate conservative to a dedicated Democrat is truly inspiring. His story, starting from the Boy Scouts and extending to Germany, highlights the importance of tolerance and embracing different perspectives.

Daniel is actively fighting against the GOP's attack on public education, working to support public schools. He believes in more than just defense; he emphasizes proactive engagement with voters throughout the year to build power and drive progress in North Carolina. Daniel tackles tough issues like abortion and promotes the Democratic Party's positive message.

He advocates for fair play through independent redistricting, challenges extremist views in the Republican Party, and encourages youth participation. Aware of the significant impact of foreign policy on elections, Daniel is driven to share his story, underscoring the power of politics to transform and the critical need for action, engagement, and inspiration for a better future in North Carolina.

Dr. Kimberly Hardy, the Second Vice Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, discusses the importance of engaging voters and communities with a people-first approach. We emphasize the need to counter politicized tragedies and focus on the actual issues to persuade persuadable voters. We also highlight the significance of meeting community needs and being a resource for constituents. She suggests engaging with voters as neighbors and going to where they are, while being culturally sensitive and aware. The conversation concludes with a discussion on elevating county achievements and upcoming canvassing events. In this conversation, Dr. Kimberly Hardy discusses strategies for persuading third-party voters, highlighting Joe Biden's accomplishments, and addressing misconceptions about third-party candidates. She emphasizes the importance of arming volunteers with accurate information and tangible talking points that resonate with voters. Dr. Hardy also highlights the tangible impact of Biden-Harris policies, such as healthcare access and student loan relief. She encourages a focus on changing things rather than changing people and emphasizes the power of planting seeds to change minds. Finally, she emphasizes the need to inspire hope and offer a better future to voters.

We are joined by Dr. Sarah Taber, a candidate for North Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture, who discusses the role's impact on the state's budget, economy, and environment. She emphasizes fighting for the food system, protecting soil and water, and supporting sustainable farming. Advocating for cannabis legalization, she highlights potential tax revenue, accountability, and transparency. Addressing challenges faced by farmers of color, she stresses the importance of providing support. Sarah Taber also explores renewable energy, climate change effects, and the need to address reality in agriculture. She underscores focusing on specific climate change symptoms and finding solutions, building coalitions, and connecting problems for support. Taber promotes onramps to farming like the land management company model. Encouraging a shift from nostalgic views, she aims to create a better agricultural economy. Check it out now!

This episode features a wide-ranging discussion that tackles the challenges and joys of owning a small business while taking stock of an interesting week on the campaign trail. 

William and Tysen kick off the podcast by introducing themselves, sizing up the 2024 presidential race, and focusing on messaging in this campaign cycle.