The Roundtable Talk Podcast

In this episode of Roundtable Talk, Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland cut through the noise to discuss i
ssues that matter most to Hoke County and North Carolina.

They break down the North Carolina Supreme Court’s final word on the state’s voter ID law, explore the 
closure of the 32‑year Leandro education case, and examine ongoing debates over educational funding, local accountability, and growth management in our communities.

They also tackle the latest discussion on state marijuana legalization, upcoming GOP meetings and civic events, and the importance of citizen engagement — reminding listeners that informed voters are the 
heartbeat of effective local government.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

The votes are in — now what?

Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland unpack the Hoke County election results and what they mean for our community. Listen to The Roundtable — local voices, real talk, honest solutions.

In this post‑election conversation, Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland sit down in Raeford to unpack the results, the surprises, and the stories behind Hoke County’s 2026 races. From voter turnout to school board shifts and county commission changes, they break down what the numbers really mean for local families and the community’s future. 

But it’s not just about politics. Ruben and Chris dig into the heartbeat of civic engagement—how faith, integrity, and personal responsibility belong right alongside campaign signs and polling booths. Their candid analysis invites neighbors to think, pray, and stay involved long after Election Day.

For anyone trying to make sense of what’s next for Raeford and Hoke County, this is real local talk from people who live it every day.

Episode Highlights: 

• Honest breakdown of 2026 local election results
• Discussion on voter engagement and turnout trends
• The role of church, family, and conscience in civic responsibility
• Encouragement to serve, not just vote

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

In this episode of the Roundtable Talk Podcast, Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland sit down with Dr. Ralph Carter—a local physician, community leader, and candidate for public office—to discuss the issues shaping life in Hoke and Scotland Counties.

Dr. Carter shares his vision for sustainable growth, smarter infrastructure, local healthcare improvements, and fiscal responsibility. The conversation ranges from challenges in local development to the impact of statewide leadership decisions and the need for voter involvement at every level. With early voting underway, the hosts and guest encourage citizens to stand up, speak out, and take an active role in shaping the future of southeastern North Carolina.

This is a candid, hometown conversation about values, leadership, and what it will take to build a better, healthier, and more self‑sufficient Hoke County.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

In this episode, Ruben and Chris dive into the start of early voting in Hoke County, examine the details behind the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act), and discuss why voter ID laws matter for election integrity. The conversation widens to faith and politics, exploring the moral foundations behind law, justice, and civic responsibility.

They also talk about the growing concerns surrounding “fake Republicans”, the importance of vetting candidates, and call on voters to get involved at the local level. The hosts take a faith-informed view of current issues—from debates on transgender identity and Title IX to the moral direction of modern politics—and tie it all back to biblical principles and community leadership.

Stay to the end to catch a historical reflection leading to America’s 250th anniversary, drawing lessons from the early days of the Revolution and applying them to today’s civic challenges.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland dig into North Carolina power shifts and why they matter locally. 

They break down recent Raleigh moves affecting who appoints the State Board of Elections, how that filters to county boards, and what it could mean for voter ID enforcement and local oversight

Then the guys lighten it up with a very North Carolina weather check (brace for a soggy Sunday, maybe a messy Monday).

It’s straight talk, local stakes, and plenty of back-and-forth from two voices who call this community home.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

In Episode 148 of The Roundtable Talk Podcast, hosts Chris Holland and Ruben Castellon sit down with Dr. Ralph Carter, orthopedic surgeon and candidate for North Carolina House District 48 (Hoke and Scotland Counties).

Dr. Carter shares his heart for public service, his perspective on healthcare, and his plan to restore strong local leadership by focusing on affordability, infrastructure, and real wellness for families across southeastern North Carolina.

“Health care, taxation, and education—they’re not distant issues. They affect families right here in Hoke and Scotland Counties every single day. If we take care of our people, we’ll take care of our state.” — Dr. Ralph Carter

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

It’s filing season in North Carolina, and the local slate is taking shape. Ruben and Chris walk through who files where, what it costs, deadlines that actually matter, and what redrawn districts could mean for Hoke County. We hit the basics (age, residency, unaffiliated petitions, fees), local races already drawing primaries, and a quick reality check on challenges and eligibility.
Plus a community calendar—Hometown Christmas, Rockfish’s Old-Time Christmas—and our 250th-anniversary vignette on Henry Knox’s “Noble Train of Artillery.”
If you vote here, pay taxes here, or cheer at Friday-night lights here—this one’s for you.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.

Sponsors:

• North State Journal (Hoke County edition)
• The LIBRE Initiative
• Christian 105.7 FM.