Quinn and Daniel hang out with Billy Ball, Senior Editor at Cardinal & Pine, for an engaging discussion at the crossroads of media and politics. They dive into journalism's role in the political arena, tackle the complexities of covering state and local issues, and highlight the crucial role of independent media in today’s landscape. They also take a moment to discuss their favorite video games. Tune in and learn why journalism is our nation's fourth branch of government!

This week the Holler hangs out with Beth Helfrich, candidate for NC House District 98! From her roots as a third-generation Davidson resident to her impactful work as a former teacher, school leader, and community advocate, Beth is ready to bring her passion and experience to the North Carolina House. Beth shares her journey from the classroom to local leadership, her commitment to public education, and her vision for a more prosperous and community-oriented North Carolina. Discover how she balances family life with her role as former PTO President and working mom of five while championing the values of community and connectedness on the campaign trail.

Learn more about Beth at https://www.bethhelfrichnc.com/

Connect with Beth on social media @bethhelfrichnc

Want bonus episodes and Holler swag? Become a Friend of the Holler at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.

Connect with the Holler on social media @thehometownholler or by visiting our website www.thehometownholler.com

In this episode of Hometown Holler, Quinn and Daniel sit down with Representative Wesley Harris, candidate for North Carolina State Treasurer. They delve into the responsibilities of the State Treasurer, the issues surrounding the underperformance of the state employees' pension, and explore Wesley's strategies for improving its performance. Tune in to get an insider's perspective on the financial future of North Carolina. Learn more about Wesley at https://harrisfornc.com/

Join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.

This episode is for anyone who eats food. Daniel and Quinn sit down with Dr. Sarah Taber, candidate for NC Commissioner of Agriculture, to chat about North Carolina’s most important economic sector. A bona fide plant wizard, Dr. Taber impresses the Holler with her expertise in agronomy and commitment to sustainable farming while unpacking the innovations and reforms that can make North Carolina the greatest state in the Union for farmers and foodies. 

Connect with Dr. Taber on… 

Instagram: @sarahtabernc

Twitter: @SarahTaber_bww

Website: https://taberfornc.com/

Join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.

Connect with the Holler on social media @thehometownholler or by visiting our website www.thehometownholler.com

Chapel Hill Town Councilor Theo Nollert has a thesis: when it comes to Tar Heel politics, it’s all about housing. In a data-driven and light-hearted approach, the clairvoyant Theo (he wore a Kamala Harris shirt to our early-July taping) tells us how local governments can make housing more accessible for all Tar Heels. Along the way, he stresses the importance of local politics and reveals what motivated him to put his name on the ballot. Want bonus episodes and Holler swag? Become a Friend of the Holler at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.

Connect with Theo on social media @theodorenollert

Connect with the Holler on social media @thehometownholler or by visiting our website www.thehometownholler.com

Daniel and Quinn kick back with renowned sociologist, NY Times columnist, best-selling author, MacArthur Genius, public intellectual, and weapons-grade badass Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom. The Tar Heel trio dive into an array of topics including Southern identity, DEI at UNC, the societal impact of higher education, the ascent of Tim Walz, the myth of the undecided voter, the South’s cultural and political parallels with Ireland and Scotland, the art of the Tressay, and why Americans should love the DMV. Yes, you read that last one correctly. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time. Sign up and help us Holler!

Quinn and Daniel reflect on their podcasting journey over the past eight months. They dive into the unexpected twist in the 2024 presidential race, including Joe Biden's surprise withdrawal and Kamala Harris's dynamic impact on energizing the Democratic base. The boys from Alamance also explore the shifting landscape of state races, spotlighting the latest scandal involving North Carolina's Lt. Governor Mark Robinson. Finally, the duo discusses political messaging and what strategies effectively drive voter turnout.

Love the Holler? Want to build a better North Carolina one conversation at a time? Become a Friend of the Holler on Patreon and enjoy bonus episodes, Holler swag, and other gnarly perks! Click here to make your wildest dreams come true!

00:00 World's Greatest Podcast Intro

01:02 Riding the Political Roller Coaster

03:02 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

07:48 The National Landscape

09:06 Biden's Campaign and Democratic Strategy

13:28 The View from Trumpistan

15:44 Kamala Harris and Future Prospects

17:08 NC Politics and Mark Robinson Scandals

20:09 Daycare Fraud and Negligence

21:31 Messaging in Politics

22:30 Voter Behavior and Policy Impact

30:36 Local Elections and School Board Issues

32:07 Adios, y'all!

The Holler is honored to present a special conversation with North Carolina State Auditor Jessica Holmes. From her humble beginnings in Pender County to becoming the first Black woman on North Carolina's Council of State, Jessica’s journey is the stuff of which Tar Heel legends are made. In this lively discussion, she dives deep into the critical task of safeguarding over $100 billion in taxpayer funds annually, ensuring every cent serves the public trust. Beyond exploring the intricacies of her role as state auditor, Jessica recounts her extraordinary career in public service and even shares a personal ode to the irresistible allure of a Bojangles biscuit. Along the way, she passionately makes a case for her re-election this fall, drawing a clear distinction between her values-driven, people-powered campaign and the self-funded, out-of-touch opposition she faces. Follow Jessica’s re-election campaign at ⁠⁠https://jessicafornc.com/⁠⁠

⁠00:00⁠ Greatest Podcast Intro in the History of the Universe⁠ 

⁠01:37⁠ Guest Introduction: Jessica Holmes⁠

03:53⁠ Role and Responsibilities of the State Auditor

 ⁠07:19⁠ Challenges and Importance of the State Auditor's Office

⁠⁠13⁠:⁠18⁠⁠ Jessica's Journey⁠

17:33⁠ Importance of Down-Ballot Races⁠

21:38⁠ Rapid Fire Questions⁠

23:58⁠ Closing Remarks and Farewell  

Don't worry, there's no premium for this episode! This week on the Holler, Daniel and Quinn welcome Senator Natasha Marcus, NC's Democratic candidate for Commissioner of Insurance. Natasha shares stories from her time in the Senate, her passion for public service, and her vision for holding insurance companies accountable. Along the way, she addresses common myths about the office of Insurance Commissioner and reveals why being a state senator is not as cushy as it sounds. Tune in to hear about this crucial down-ballot race and why Senator Marcus believes she is the right choice for North Carolina's Commissioner of Insurance! Learn more at https://natashamarcus.com/