Carolina Newsmakers

Carolina Newsmakers, hosted by Don Curtis, is a weekly public affairs program that delves into issues impacting North Carolinians. Covering topics from the economy to education, it provides a platform for influential voices to share their perspectives and stories, fostering informed discussions on matters affecting our daily lives.

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Mike Causey Discusses Insurance Challenges and Opportunities in North Carolina

On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis interviews Mike Causey, North Carolina’s Insurance Commissioner, recently reelected for his third term. The discussion highlights the evolving challenges of the insurance industry, including disaster recovery, fraud prevention, and the affordability of policies, while offering practical advice for consumers. Causey begins by addressing the...

Andy Ellen Discusses the Challenges and Opportunities in North Carolina Retail

On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis interviews Andy Ellen, President of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (NCRMA), to explore the evolving retail landscape in North Carolina. Ellen shares insights on consumer behavior, workforce challenges, inflation, organized retail crime, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on retail operations. Ellen begins by...

Dale Folwell Reflects on His Tenure and the Challenges Facing North Carolina’s Finances

On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Dale Folwell, the outgoing North Carolina State Treasurer, sits down with Don Curtis to reflect on his eight years in office, discuss his achievements, and share his concerns about the financial future of the state. Folwell, who chose not to seek reelection, also provides advice for his successor and sheds light on critical issues such as health care costs...

Bob Phillips Discusses North Carolina’s Political Landscape and the Role of Common Cause

On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis interviews Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, about the outcomes of the 2024 elections and the challenges facing democracy in the state and nationwide. Phillips provides insights into voter turnout, the role of money in politics, and the importance of nonpartisan advocacy. Phillips begins by reflecting on the 2024...

John Hood Discusses the 2024 Elections and Political Dynamics

In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis interviews John Hood, an accomplished author, columnist, and political analyst, to discuss the upcoming 2024 elections. Hood provides a deep dive into voter trends, key races, and the broader implications of the election outcomes on North Carolina and the nation. Early Voting: A Growing Trend with Strategic Impacts Hood begins by highlighting the...

Justice Robert Orr Reflects on the Changing Landscape of College Athletics

In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, host Don Curtis welcomes Justice Robert Orr, former North Carolina Supreme Court Justice and a national advocate for college athletes. Orr shares his perspective on the rapidly evolving world of college sports, touching on issues such as the transfer portal, conference realignment, coaching challenges, and the future of athlete compensation. From Legal...

Brad Crone Discusses the High-Stakes 2024 Elections in North Carolina and Nationwide

On this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis is joined by Brad Crone, a seasoned political consultant and President of Campaign Connections, to delve into the complexities of the upcoming 2024 elections. Crone offers his insights on the presidential race, North Carolina’s gubernatorial contest, and the impact of down-ballot races, shedding light on what’s shaping up to be one of the most...

Heather Frazee Discusses the Red Cross’s Relief Efforts and the Importance of Community Support

In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis speaks with Heather Frazee, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Piedmont Triad Chapter, about the Red Cross’s ongoing disaster relief work in North Carolina. Frazee sheds light on the organization’s efforts in helping those affected by the recent floods in the western part of the state, the role of volunteers, and the importance of...

Karen Brinson Bell on Preparing for North Carolina’s 2024 Elections

In a timely conversation on Carolina Newsmakers, Karen Brinson Bell, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, spoke with Don Curtis about the upcoming 2024 elections. Bell provided insights into the election process, discussed changes to voting procedures, and emphasized the importance of voter participation. The State of the 2024 Election Process Karen Brinson Bell has...