What happens when four podcasters who love books host a writer who writes a history of bookstores? A great discussion about books and how they shape our culture, our politics, and the ways that we relate to each other. Evan Friss is a professor at James Madison University and the author of "The Bookshop." And the stories he brings -- from the in-depth chapters on the biggest names in bookselling, to the personal asides that illuminate the power of bookstores -- are a reader's, and listener's, delight. 

The NDP regulars geek out on education this week with director of the Comprehensive Instructional Program Matt Hurt. This program, which more than 70 school districts in Virginia participate in, has delivered some eye-popping results on SOL testing. Special guest Audrey Rackley - a longtime history teacher at James Monroe High School - joins the discussion as we learn what CIP is, how it works, and the tension between testing and intangibles that lead to academic success.

He started out to write a movie script; he ended up with an innovative exploration of Black identity. Justin takes Cori, Megan, and Marty on his journey of self-discovery that also opens up a better of understanding of life in the greater Fredericksburg region.

This week, Marty has a bit of fun with Jeh Hicks, who seems to tower over everything in these days -- especially Goolrick's. Then, Sam Shoukas and Chip Boyles join Cori and Megan to talk all things housing. 

Fredericksburg Republican Committee chair Scott Vezina and Spotsylvania Democratic Committee chair Jeff Kent join Cori, Megan, and Marty to talk about the importance of people becoming more aware and more involved in the political process.

Joseph Lyttle and Amanda Strawn do the impossible everyday in their respective roles at FAHASS (Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services). FAHASS' efforts are centered in the LGBTQ+ community, but their services are there for so many more. Cori, Megan, and Jeh take listeners into a powerhouse nonprofit that delivers big bang with the bucks it earns.