The Hometown Holler

The Holler welcomes Representative Robert Reives, Democratic Leader of the North Carolina House of Representatives, to break down the future of NC politics. Born and raised in Sanford, Rep. Reives has spent his career fighting for economic development, education, and justice reform. From leading bipartisan efforts to expand workforce training to championing Medicaid expansion, he’s been at the forefront of policies that strengthen working families.

We ask Rep. Reives what leadership means to him, how he balances the diverse voices within his caucus, and what it will take to make competitive elections possible again in gerrymandered districts. We also discuss the GOP’s legislative agenda and, most importantly, what gives him hope for North Carolina’s future.

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The Holler welcomes authors Belle Boggs and Sylvester Allen Jr. to discuss the life and legacy of Wyatt Outlaw, the first African American to serve as Town Commissioner and Constable of Graham, North Carolina. Outlaw was lynched by the White Brotherhood, a branch of the Ku Klux Klan, on February 26, 1870. Belle and Sylvester explore the role of the Union League, the enduring impact of racial violence, and how history continues to shape the present. They also share the inspirations behind their work and the power of storytelling in bringing local history to life, highlighting the importance of community-driven activism and education in building a more just future.

💡Don’t forget to REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE for more deep dives into all things NC!

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In this episode of The Hometown Holler Quinn and Daniel have a powerful conversation with some North Carolina high school students about the current state of education. They discuss the hot topics like school vouchers, mental health resources, and how to improve the learning environment for students and teachers alike. Get unique insights straight from students as they share their personal experiences and ideas for change. If you care about education, student voices, and the future of our schools, this is a must-watch!

In this special MLK Day episode of the Hometown Holler, Quinn and Daniel sit down with veteran civil rights activist and author Chuck Fager. A Quaker writer with a lifelong commitment to justice, Chuck shares his extraordinary firsthand account of marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the unexpected twist that led him to eat Dr. King's dinner.

Chuck’s story goes far beyond Selma and his time as a foot soldier in Dr. King’s army of peace. His decades of activism include leading anti-war efforts, challenging conventional ideas of patriotism and faith, and authoring more than a dozen books, including his acclaimed memoir Eating Dr. King’s Dinner: A Memoir of the Movement, 1963–1966. From organizing peace marches to sparring on The O'Reilly Factor, Chuck’s life is a testament to the enduring fight for equality and justice.

Join us for a conversation that bridges the past and present, reflecting on the progress made and the work still to be done to honor Dr. King’s dream.

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Welcome to Season 2 of the Hometown Holler podcast! In this explosive premiere, the boys from Alamance spotlight Jefferson Griffin—AKA the King of Sore Losers. After failing THREE times to unseat Justice Allison Riggs in 2024, Griffin is now attempting to overturn a fair election by tossing out 60,000 votes. (Visit thehometownholler.com to see if YOUR vote is one of them.) With hand-rolled wit and unfiltered honesty, Daniel and Quinn break down the strategy, the consequences, and the real impact on voters across North Carolina. Could Griffin's attempted coup actually succeed? Is North Carolina headed for a constitutional crisis in 2025? Tune in to find out.

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In this live season finale, Daniel and Quinn call in a special guest to answer the question everyone's asking: what the %&!$ happened?

The Hometown Holler podcast returns in early 2025! In the meantime, stay up to date by following us on social media @thehometownholler. Believe in our mission? Become a Friend of the Holler today by joining our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time.

In the penultimate episode of the season, Daniel and Quinn recap the highs and lows of the election season and consider what’s next for North Carolina. They also break down what North Carolina voters can expect as the results roll in on election night.

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

We had an interview scheduled with Michele Morrow, GOP nominee for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. She bailed at the last minute. We did the interview anyway.

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

Mo Green's Vision for North Carolina's Education System

This week, the Holler hangs out with Mo Green, candidate for North Carolina's state superintendent of public instruction! Our next state superintendent will oversee a school system serving nearly 1.5 million students and a budget in the tens of billions. For these reasons alone, it's one of the most important races on our ballot this year. A former superintendent of Guilford County Schools and NC public school parent, Mo shares his journey from local leadership to statewide advocacy and his vision for fostering both academic success and character development in our public school classrooms. We also get a fun glimpse into Mo's personal side, learning about his favorite road trip jams and how he snacks when those campaign trail munchies hit.

Learn more about Mo at https://www.mogreenfornc.com/

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.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:28 Casual Conversation and Bee Sting Story

03:03 Introducing Mo Green

04:18 Mo Green's Background and Vision

10:21 Challenges in Public Education

13:56 Contrasting Visions for Public Education

23:48 Addressing Concerns and Building Trust

26:52 Funding Challenges and Advocacy

32:51 Role and Structure of the State Board of Education

38:27 Balancing Job Preparation and Character Development

43:26 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

Quamekia "Que" Shavers knows the key to boosting voter turnout: food, fun, and fellowship. It also doesn't hurt to have badass cups (listen and you'll see what we mean). As the founder of The Pink Vote, Que focuses on increasing engagement among Black and Brown voters. She joins the Holler to share her political wisdom, emphasizing the importance of building trust within communities and outlining the innovative tactics employed by The Pink Vote. Que offers strategies for making politics relatable and highlights the critical impact of local elections. Listeners will gain insights into personalized voter registration methods, the significance of ongoing community engagement, and the challenges posed by voter ID laws, all contributing to a deeper understanding of grassroots activism and community-led initiatives that strengthen democratic participation. And did we mention she has badass cups? Connect with Que on Instagram @thepinkvotews

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

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Pumpkin Spice and Holiday Season Debate

01:27 Introducing Today's Inspiring Guest: Quamekia Shavers

02:34 Que's Political Journey and Achievements

05:51 The Birth and Mission of The Pink Vote

12:16 Engaging the Community: Strategies and Success Stories

22:09 Event Strategy and Success Indicators

23:04 Voter Registration at Social Events

23:37 Challenges and Success in Voter Registration

25:19 Impact of Voter ID Laws

27:46 Engaging Communities of Color

29:21 Building Trust in Communities

36:34 Creative Approaches to Voter Registration

42:19 Final Thoughts