In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, the team dives into the contentious healthcare debate affecting state employees. Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, Suzanne Beasley, and Sam Cline discuss the implications of proposed changes to healthcare premiums based on employee salaries, and the lack of transparency in provider contracts. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and assumptions faced by state employees and the actions needed to address these issues.

The podcast also explores the controversial TikTok ban in the United States, examining its potential impact on millions of users, influencers, and small businesses. Discussing legislative actions and market implications, the hosts provide insights into how this social media disruption could reshape digital communication.

Additionally, the episode touches on various cultural and political topics, including the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the ongoing challenges with wildfire containment in California. Tune in for a thorough examination of how these issues intersect with the lives of state employees and broader societal dynamics.

This week the SEANC team discusses the intricacies of healthcare in North Carolina, including the pressing issues surrounding the state health plan. State Treasurer Brad Briner announced this week his intentions to raise premiums on the 740,000-plus members of the plan.

The team explores the implications of the potential premium hikes as well as how healthcare costs impact not only public servants but all residents of North Carolina. We question the transparency of healthcare provider contracts and discuss the financial burdens placed on families due to rising premiums and deductibles.

The podcast also touches on the complexities of maintaining state road safety during icy conditions, the dedication of DOT workers, and the ongoing challenges in managing public resources efficiently. Tune in for a deep dive into these critical topics, coupled with lighthearted anecdotes about snow, sledding, and cherished winter memories.

Welcome to the first edition of The SEANC View podcast for 2025, featuring Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline. This week, we discuss the significant political transitions in North Carolina, with Governor Josh Stein taking office and a revamped cabinet. We also address the pressing challenges facing the state, such as the fiscal impacts following Hurricane Helene and the critical issue of staff vacancies in the state workforce.

The podcast highlights the pressing fiscal challenges due to hurricane damages and discusses the importance of tackling staff vacancies in state employment. Governor Stein's administration faces a delicate balancing act between recovery efforts and addressing long-standing issues like state employee compensation. The upcoming legislative session will also be a focal point for these discussions, especially concerning revenue forecasts and financial strategies.

Welcome to a special year-end edition of The SEANC View podcast. Jonathan Owens, Suzanne Beasley, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline retrospectively examine the major stories that shaped 2024. Amid lively discussions, we explore the ripple effects of significant events, including the end of coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs, the tragic murder of law enforcement officers in Charlotte, budgetary challenges facing state employees, Hurricane Helene's devastation in North Carolina, and the outcome of the recent election.

We also delve into the pressing issues that remain unresolved and the impact of political changes on state governance. As we look toward 2025, we share our personal hopes and resolutions for the new year, leaving you with a mix of reflective insights and optimistic aspirations. Happy New Year from all of us at SEANC!

Welcome to another edition of the Scenic View podcast, hosted by Jonathan Owens alongside Ardis Watkins, Suzanne Beasley, and Sam Cline. This week we discuss the attack on a correctional officer at Bertie Correctional and the staffing issues that must be addressed in the coming legislative session. 

An inmate at Bertie Correctional murdered Sgt. Meggan Callahan in the first of five correctional officer deaths in 2017, and sadly the issues from almost eight years ago persist. Bertie is one of several North Carolina prisons experiencing extreme understaffing in the ongoing vacancy crisis plaguing state government.

We also talked about the House's vote to overturn Gov. Cooper's veto of a bill that included more hurricane money and provisions to strip powers from the governor and attorney general.

This week, we delve into key developments at the state legislature, focusing on the Senate's recent approval of three significant constitutional amendments pertaining to voter ID, congressional term limits, and the cap on the state income tax. Join Jon Owens, Sam Cline, Suzanne Beasley, and Ardis Watkins as they discuss the implications of these measures and their urgency in the current political climate.

The episode also touches on the economic challenges facing North Carolina, examining the effects of recent natural disasters on local economies and potential shifts in tax structures. The hosts provide a thoughtful analysis of the interplay between state policies and federal initiatives, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing state needs amid national changes.

In a lighter segment, the team explores favorite holiday movies, bringing a festive spirit to the episode. The team shares personal picks and seasonal classics, from timeless tales to modern holiday gems.

Welcome to a special Thanksgiving edition of the SEANC View podcast. In this heartfelt episode, our digital communications specialist, Sam Cline, gathers insights from the Board of Governors and Executive Committee on what they are thankful for this holiday season. From President Kirk Montgomery and Executive Director Ardis Watkins to various district chairpersons, listeners will hear gratitude for meaningful work, supportive communities, and personal well-being.

Throughout the episode, Scenic members share personal stories of thankfulness, emphasizing the importance of family, community support, and gratitude for life’s blessings. This special edition not only highlights the strong bonds within the SEANC community but also serves as a reminder of the power of thankfulness and how it brings people together, especially in challenging times.

Join us in this tapestry of thankfulness and community solidarity, and enjoy the inspirational stories from Scenic's leaders. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

In this episode of The SEANC View podcast, SEANC President Kirk Montgomery discusses his visit to the State Health Plan Board of Trustees meeting, where he reiterated that state employees and retirees can't afford an increase in premiums. Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, Suzanne Beasley, and Sam Cline delve into the latest happenings at the legislature and recap the latest news out of the election.

The team also examines key power transitions, discussing changes in state leadership roles and their implications. They address legislative changes impacting election oversight, the governor's judicial powers, and education funding.

In this post-election edition of the SEANC View podcast, Communications Director Jonathan Owens, Executive Director Ardis Watkins, Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley, and Digital Communications Specialist Sam Cline are joined by EMPAC Statewide Chairman Mark Dearmon to share insights following a historic election night.

With a remarkable 94% success rate for EMPAC-endorsed candidates, the panel delves into the dynamics behind this achievement and the role of nonpartisan endorsements. They explore the unexpected hunger for neutrality among voters, particularly students, and discuss the impact of distributing 10,000 palm cards.

The conversation shifts to the outcomes of key races, including the gubernatorial victory of Josh Stein and the intriguing dynamics of the presidential race. The team reflects on the implications of a legislature without a supermajority and what it means for policy-making in the state.

Election Day is upon us! In this episode of the SEANC Viw Podcast, Communications Director Jonathan Owens, Executive Director Ardis Watkins, Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley, and Digital Communications Specialist Sam Cline dive into the latest updates before the big day on Tuesday.

We explore the impact of early voting trends and delve into the latest polls for key races, including presidential and Council of State contests in North Carolina. The podcast, with insightful analysis, examines the implications of early voting numbers and shares thoughts on the potential outcomes of the upcoming elections.

The team also discusses the ongoing relief efforts in the West, highlighting the importance of state employees and the role of government in times of disaster.

We also get into the Halloween spirit by sharing favorite costume memories and discussing the significance of this spooky holiday. Tune in for an engaging and informative episode as we approach Election Day!