Do Politics Better Podcast

NC's New Budget! + A Conversation with Rep. Phil Shepard Jul 02, 2026

North Carolina lawmakers finally reached a budget agreement, a bipartisan one at that, and Skye and Brian break down what made it into the spending plan and what's next in the legislative session.

Also, Rep. Phil Shepard (R-Onslow) reflects on his 15 years in the legislature, the evolution of North Carolina politics in his region, and the lessons he's learned.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Secretary Pam Cashwell: America 250, Breaking Barriers, and a Life of Public Service Jun 25, 2026

This week on Do Politics Better, Brian Lewis and Skye David sit down with North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pam Cashwell to discuss her remarkable career in public service and her department's leadership role in commemorating America's 250th anniversary.

Secretary Cashwell made history as the first Native American to serve in a North Carolina Governor's Cabinet. Throughout her career, she has been guided by a commitment to public service, holding leadership positions in civil rights enforcement, litigation, public safety, and state government. She reflects on the experiences that shaped her, the mentors who influenced her path, and why she believes public service remains one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference in people's lives.

The conversation also explores North Carolina's plans for America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As the state agency charged with preserving North Carolina's history, culture, and natural heritage, the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is leading efforts to ensure communities across the state have opportunities to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the nation's founding and the many stories that have shaped North Carolina over the past two and a half centuries.

Plus, Brian and Skye unpack another busy week in North Carolina politics. They provide the latest updates on state budget negotiations, veto override efforts at the General Assembly, and legislation that is moving—or waiting in the queue—as lawmakers race toward key deadlines. They also discuss the Carolina Hurricanes' visit to the legislature, reflect on the life and legacy of a former state senator following his passing, and cover a variety of other political developments from around the state.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

How Powerful Democratic Sen Ken Royall Shaped His Conservative Son, Lobbyist Jere Royall Jun 18, 2026

NC Family Policy Council Lobbyist Jere Royall sits down for a fascinating conversation about politics, family, and the power of relationships in #ncpol.

Jere is the son of the late Sen. Ken Royall, one of the most influential figures in modern North Carolina political history when he became both the Senate Majority Leader and Appropriations Chairman decades ago.

Gov. Jim Hunt described the Durham legislator as "a master of the legislative process" who helped shape state policy from education and economic development to mental health reform and hospitals.

Despite growing up in a household led by a Democratic political giant, Jere charted a different path. He became a lobbyist and advocate for many of the social and family policy causes most closely associated with North Carolina conservatives and the Republican Party.

Jere reflects on lessons learned from his father, the values that shaped his own political worldview, and how respect, trust, and personal relationships still matter in a highly polarized political environment.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the latest political news, including budget news, political news, an election bill, a rumor, the Canes win, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

How a Senator's Fatal Car Crash Still Echoes Through a Family and #NCPOL Today Jun 11, 2026

Mark Ezzell, Director of the North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program, was in his early 20s when his father, Sen. Jim Ezzell, died on Capital Boulevard in Raleigh on the eve of session starting in 1991.

That loss not only changed Mark's life forever, it also created an opening in the North Carolina Senate for a young House member named Roy Cooper.

But this story is about more than politics, it's also about perseverance and grace. Senator Ezzell, who lived with cerebral palsy, and his wife made the intentional decision to adopt a child with a disability. At age eight, Mark was adopted from foster care and welcomed into a family that saw his potential, not his limitations. Born with spina bifida, Mark has spent his life navigating challenges from a wheelchair while building a successful career in public service, including his work today of preventing highway fatalities.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack another busy week: state budget negotiations continue, a moratorium on certain property tax increases heads to Governor Stein's desk, political news, a state senator has his eyes on a mayor's office, and graduation ceremonies are getting out of hand.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Former Lt. Governor Dan Forest Loves His New Job Jun 04, 2026

Former NC Lieutenant Governor Dan Forest sits down for a candid conversation about the twists and turns that have shaped his life, career, and outlook on the future.

The Republican reflects on growing up in a political family, how his parents' divorce affected him and influenced his views on faith, family, and perseverance. He also opens up about one of the most difficult chapters of his public life: his 2020 gubernatorial loss, what he learned from the experience, and how it changed his perspective on politics and leadership.

Today, Forest has embarked on a new chapter that he says he genuinely loves. As a lobbyist and leader of a coalition focused on blockchain technology and AI, he is helping businesses and policymakers navigate some of the most transformative innovations of our time. He discusses the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, the future of cryptocurrency, and why he believes emerging technologies will reshape government, business, and everyday life.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the latest developments at the General Assembly, including a budget update, several key bills on the move, and a notable veto override. They also take a look at the stories shaping the week across North Carolina before turning their attention to the state's collective obsession: the Carolina Hurricanes.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

A Memorial Day Conversation with Rep. Allen Chesser May 21, 2026

Rep. Allen Chesser is a combat veteran who served more than two decades ago, but he says war is still claiming lives today. With veteran suicide continuing to devastate military families, Rep. Chesser joins Skye and Brian for a candid Memorial Day conversation about service, sacrifice, mental health, and why he believes lawmakers must do more to support veterans long after they return home.

The Nash County Republican also discusses his own mental fitness, personal discipline, and how he balances public service and family life.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the latest revenue forecast numbers, where budget negotiations currently stand, a growing list of proposed constitutional amendments at the legislature, and the politics of hugging.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

The NC Speaker Who Never Was: Former Rep. Leo Daughtry's Story May 14, 2026

Former Rep. Leo Daughtry joins Skye and Brian to reflect on his storied political career, including the dramatic battle for Speaker of the North Carolina House heading into the 2003–2004 biennium.

For weeks, the Johnston County Republican was widely viewed as the next Speaker after his party narrowly won the NC House in 2002 by a single seat. But, a last-minute revolt within the Republican caucus stripped away the votes he needed and denied him the gavel on the opening day of session.

The political fallout fractured House Republicans for years and remains one of the most talked-about leadership fights in modern North Carolina political history.

Plus, the podcast breaks down the celebrated announcement of a budget deal, movement on an ABC reform bill in the House, a new John Locke Foundation poll, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Stephen Ross Shares the Family Struggle That Shaped His Life May 07, 2026

Rep. Stephen Ross is wrapping up an incredible political career that began in Burlington, where he served on the City Council, led as Mayor, and eventually was persuaded to run for the NC House.

The Alamance County Republican shares how he worked alongside a fellow mayor from another county (and another political party) to deliver results not just for their hometowns, but for North Carolina politics as a whole.

But the most powerful moment comes when Rep. Ross reflects on his late mother. After his father died of a stroke while Rep. Ross was still in high school, she found herself rebuilding a family from the ground up after the family business was lost. Her determination didn’t just keep the family afloat, it inspired achievement, resilience, and purpose for Rep. Ross and his siblings.

It’s a moving conversation ahead of Mother’s Day weekend.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the week in #ncpol, including a property tax bill on the move, two members of Congress land in hot water, Rep. Budd battles breast cancer, and North Carolina loses a former lawmaker.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Phil Berger on Short Session, Budget, and the NC Senate as an Institution Apr 30, 2026

Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger sits down for a candid conversation about the legislative short session and the question everyone in #ncpol is asking: Will the House and Senate actually come together on a new budget?

Sen. Berger also reflects on his unsuccessful run for the NC House in 1994, his successful bid for NC Senate six years later, and talks about spending a decade in the minority.

We also dig into the pivotal 2010 shift to a Republican majority, Berger’s perspective on that transition, and his respect for the way his Democratic predecessor, Sen. Marc Basnight, navigated a change in power.

Skye and Brian also run through a packed week in #ncpol: another round of party hopping in the House, budget talks, a brewing dispute over access to water, the passing of a former senator, and a deleted #TOTW salvaged. Along the way, there’s also a detour into “slippery when wet” signage at the General Assembly.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Speaker Hall: Short Session, Budget Battles, & Breaking the Impasse Apr 23, 2026

Speaker Destin Hall previews the short session now underway and breaks down the path forward on the state budget after last year’s budget stalemate.

The Speaker walks listeners through his priorities, what’s changed since last year, and whether there’s a realistic path to breaking the impasse. He also reflects on his first year holding the gavel: what he’s learned, his leadership style, and he talks about "the Schedule".

Plus, Skye and Brian run through a packed week: first-day-of-session vibes, the latest on Medicaid rebasing, where budget negotiations stand, and Governor Josh Stein rolling out his proposed budget. We also hit the formation of a new investigative committee, the swearing-in of three new legislators, a few early session predictions, how AI is creeping into policymaking conversations, and plenty more from around Jones Street.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

From Senate to Governor: How Gov Stein’s Career Prepared Him to Lead Apr 16, 2026

Governor Josh Stein talks about how his time in the NC Senate (2009-2016) shaped the way he leads today. Having served under both Democratic and Republican leadership, Gov. Stein reflects on the lessons he learned working across the aisle, building relationships, and navigating the realities of divided government. It's experience he now leans on as he works with the General Assembly.

He also offers a preview of his budget priorities, outlining where he wants to invest, what challenges lie ahead, and how he plans to find common ground with lawmakers. From economic growth to key funding decisions, Gov. Stein shares his approach to governing in a closely divided political environment.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down recommendations coming out of two interim committees, take a look at the latest fundraising numbers, and discuss emerging Democratic target districts. They also touch on the selection of a new legislator and what it means for the political landscape moving forward.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the American Heart Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

From the General Assembly to Congress: Brett Keeter Reflects & Signs Off Apr 09, 2026

Brett Keeter began his political career managing a campaign for a 26-year-old up-and-comer named Patrick McHenry, who won a seat in the General Assembly in 2002, the biennium of co-Speakers. Brett would serve as Rep. McHenry's legislative assistant.

Two years later, the college friends mount a successful campaign for Congress, with Brett going on to lead Congressman McHenry's district offices.

In this conversation, Brett reflects on it all, including watching his boss evolve from a political bomb-thrower to a unifier, and from back-bencher to Speaker of the House for 23 days.

Brett shares candid insights on the good times, the fun times, the challenging January 6 vote, and the moments that defined a career behind the scenes on Capitol Hill.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down a new issue poll, the selection of a new North Carolina senator, the latest developments in the Leandro case, a visit from Secretary Mullin, and the transition from basketball to baseball season.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Thomas Mills on the Rise and Fall of NC Democrats in Rural Districts Apr 02, 2026

Politics NC's Thomas Mills, a Democrat, knows about winning in rural areas because he was the consultant for many successful political campaigns, including former Senator and Lt. Governor Walter Dalton from Rutherford County.

Thomas breaks down how Democrats once built durable voting blocs as moderates, what changed over time, and what it would take to rebuild that connection today.
Plus, Skye and Brian unpack the House’s messaging on the budget, take a look at new polling out of Catawba College, and talk Final Four, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

The Concession Heard Across NC & Sam Hayes Talks State Board of Elections Mar 26, 2026

NC State Board of Election Sam Hayes joins the podcast for an inside look at how elections work, including his role leading and he offers a candid assessment of how the primaries went, what lessons were learned, and what it takes to run secure, accurate, and efficient elections at scale.

We also look ahead to November, as Hayes discusses how his team is preparing for the high-stakes midterm elections and the continued effort to build voter confidence across the state.
Plus, Brian and Skye talk about the political earthquake and aftershock of Sen. Phil Berger conceding a primary, an optimistic economic report, a new Carolina Journal poll, and mounting basketball troubles at UNC and NC State.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, Heal the System NC, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC’s Funky Separation of Powers — And Under Which Branch is the Sheriff? Mar 19, 2026

North Carolina’s government structure can be…complicated. And sometimes, that complexity shows up in ways that raise more questions than answers.

UNC Law School Professor Rick Su is a leading expert on local government and he breaks down a curious exchange between a state House member and Sheriff Garry McFadden that exposed a surprising level of confusion about a basic question: what branch of government do sheriffs actually belong to?

The conversation highlights a bigger issue about North Carolina’s uniquely structured executive branch, where power is fragmented, roles can blur, and even experienced officials can get tripped up.

If you’ve ever wondered who’s really in charge in North Carolina government, this episode is your crash course in the state’s “funky” separation of powers and why it matters more than you think.

Skye and Brian also break down the latest in Berger v. Page, a constitutional amendment on property taxes, Mark Robinson is back, Rep. Mike Clampitt dies, a Senate Pro Tem rumor is unsubstantiated, TOTW, and welcome to March Madness.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

N&O's Danielle Battaglia Returns to Raleigh, Still on the Congressional Beat Mar 12, 2026

Before the primary election, the News & Observer's Danielle Battaglia stopped by to talk about her move back from Washington DC to Raleigh while remaining on the congressional beat.

What does this shift mean for political coverage in the state? How might reporting from Raleigh — rather than Washington — change the way stories about North Carolina’s members of Congress are told? And what does it say about how news organizations are approaching state and federal political coverage heading into the next election cycle?

Skye and Brian also update listeners on Berger v Page, Governor Stein's proposed spending plan, agreement on teachers, Trump endorses in CD1, and a webinar open to all. Plus, #TOTW, protein bars, and basketball.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC Primary Election Wrap Mar 05, 2026

Note: The Do Politics Better podcast was recorded and distributed on March 5, but mysteriously was not uploaded to Apple Podcasts. We are resending this podcast.

Primary night delivered clarity in most contested races in North Carolina, but not for the most important #ncpol race most of us were watching: Senator Phil Berger v Sheriff Sam Page in Rockingham and Guilford Counties.

In this episode, Skye and Brian break down the key results from across the state, what they tell us about the mood of the electorate, and which surprises matter heading into November.

But we start with the main event: Berger v. Page, a contest that isn’t finished and may be headed for a prolonged overtime. What does the margin look like? Where are the outstanding votes? And what happens next — legally, politically, and strategically?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Primary Election Recap with Berger v Page in Overtime Mar 04, 2026

Primary night delivered clarity in most contested races in North Carolina, but not for the most important #ncpol race most of us were watching: Senator Phil Berger v Sheriff Sam Page in Rockingham and Guilford Counties.
In this episode, Skye and Brian break down the key results from across the state, what they tell us about the mood of the electorate, and which surprises matter heading into November.

But we start with the main event: Berger v. Page, a contest that isn’t finished and may be headed for a prolonged overtime. What does the margin look like? Where are the outstanding votes? And what happens next — legally, politically, and strategically?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Toss-Up, Lean, Safe: A Rundown of Primary Races with NC FREE's Alex Baltzegar Feb 26, 2026

Alex Baltzegar, Executive Director of NC FreeEnterprise Foundation, talks with Skye and Brian about Tuesday's #NCPOL primary elections.

From US Senate race to key legislative battlegrounds, we break down the races as Toss-Up, Lean, or Safe and explain what the data, fundraising, and political environment are telling us.

If you want a clear-eyed, numbers-driven look at what to watch, who has momentum, and where the surprises could come from, this is your primary primer.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

John Hood on the Future of the GOP: Freedom v National Conservatism Feb 19, 2026

In this episode of Do Politics Better, Brian sits down with John Hood for a candid conversation about the growing divide within conservatism — and what it could mean for the future of American elections.

They explore the tension between traditional free-market conservatism and the rise of populist, nationalist currents on the right. Is this a temporary fracture, or a lasting realignment? And how will these competing visions shape candidate recruitment, voter turnout, and party strategy in the cycles ahead?

It’s a thoughtful, forward-looking discussion about ideology, coalition building, and whether the Republican Party can hold together a movement that increasingly disagrees on what it stands for.

Then Skye and Brian unpack a busy week in North Carolina politics — diving into early voting numbers, an impressive fundraising haul by Speaker Hall, the latest Catawba College poll, key endorsements, the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, our “Tweet of the Week,” and plenty more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Courtship, Campaigns, & Serving Together: Todd & Amanda Johnson Feb 12, 2026

Sen. Todd Johnson and his wife Amanda join the podcast for a special conversation about love, partnership, and public service. From meeting in high school band to navigating college courtship, a proposal, marriage, and raising two boys, the Johnsons share the story of building a life together — including one that now includes North Carolina politics.

Plus, Rep. Grant Campbell returns to the podcast as a guest host as helps Skye and Brian break down a busy week at the General Assembly. They unpack an oversight clash, a civics lesson, State Board of Elections dustups, the Berger v. Page fundraising battle and New York Times coverage, a new poll in the 1st Congressional District, and, of course, Valentine’s Day.

Love and politics — all in one episode.

Rep. Zack Hawkins on His Tragic Loss & Finding a 'Sole' Purpose Feb 05, 2026

Rep. Zack Hawkins is back and a lot has changed since his last visit.

The Durham Democrat joins us to catch up on what he’s been working on at the General Assembly, including the pivotal role he played in getting sports gambling over the finish line.

Rep. Hawkins also opens up about the devastating personal loss of his oldest son and how that grief has been transformed into a "sole" purpose. Listeners can be part of that mission by supporting the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund.

Plus, Skye and Brian dig into the latest campaign finance numbers, talk about an expedited lawsuit involving the State Board of Elections, and has anyone ever seen a Doppler Radar that is supposed to predict weather? (The answer is no.) And, as always, a little more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Tim Longest with the Shortest #NCPOL Commute + Sen Benton Sawrey Guest Hosts Jan 29, 2026

Guest host Sen. Benton Sawrey, a Johnston Co Republican, and co-host Brian Lewis team up to break down a wintry week in #ncpol. From icy politics to the Governor making yet another budget pitch, the latest John Locke Foundation poll, fresh primary chatter, a heartbreaking tragedy in Cabarrus County, House oversight fireworks, #TOTW, and more.

The episode also features a conversation with Rep. Tim Longest, a Raleigh Democrat with possibly the shortest commute to the General Assembly. Longest talks about his unique path to being appointed to the House, the lasting influence of former Governors Jim Hunt and Terry Sanford, and why he believes getting more young people involved is essential to the future of politics in North Carolina.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

What #NCPOL Professors Chris Cooper & Michael Bitzer are Watching in '26 Jan 22, 2026

Political science professors Chris Cooper (Western Carolina University) and Michael Bitzer (Catawba College) break down the emerging landscape of 2026, from the Trump factor and how it’s still rearranging political gravity, to affordability as a defining issue for voters.

The professors connect national dynamics to North Carolina’s uniquely complicated terrain, including the U.S. Senate race, Congressional Districts 1 and 11, and legislative primaries (Page v Berger, Hager v Johnson, Sadler v Cunningham, and Wray v Pierce).

Skye and Brian also unpack a social media dustup over the children’s hospital, new polling, Buckout fundraising, and the epic winter storm prediction for North Carolina.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sens Danny Britt & Mike Woodard's Take on '26 Elections, Session, & More Jan 15, 2026

Sen. Danny Britt, a Robeson County Republican, and former Sen. Mike Woodard, a Durham Democrat, look ahead to 2026, breaking down what’s coming with insight, honesty, disagreement, and plenty of laughs. The conversation covers the looming primary elections, the dynamics of the legislative short session, and whether lawmakers are headed toward a big budget, a mini-budget, or no budget at all.

The duo also size up the November elections, talk winners and losers, and prove that bipartisan conversations can still be candid, sharp, and entertaining.

Skye and Brian also dig into legislative oversight and select committee hearings, Governor Josh Stein’s trip to Capitol Hill, Cooper v. Whatley fundraising, a tough decision by the NC State Board of Elections, #TOTW, and is Brian morphing into Skye?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen Ted Budd: A Life-Changing USSR Trip, Unlikely Friendships, & Listening Jan 08, 2026

U.S. Senator Ted Budd talks about life before Washington, including his family roots in New Jersey and with the New York Knicks. How a trip to the U.S.S.R. while at Appalachian State University changed his life and family forever and informs how he approaches public service today.

Sen. Budd also discusses life in the Senate, his unlikely across-the-aisle friendship with Sen. John Fetterman, and why he believes listening matters in politics. The conversation offers a deeper look at the man who will be NC's senior senator in less than a year.

Skye and Brian also break down #ncpol's first week of the New Year, including House oversight hearings, Governor Josh Stein’s latest endorsement, Republicans finding reasons to celebrate, and the passing of a former Speaker whose legacy shaped state politics today.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

That’s a Wrap, 2025 — Featuring Lucille Sherman & Bryan Anderson Dec 18, 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, the podcast takes a wide-angle look back at the year in North Carolina politics. Skye and Brian are joined by Lucille Sherman, founder of Birdseye Strategies (and former Axios reporter), and Bryan Anderson, politics reporter at The Assembly, for a insightful and fun conversation about the biggest #ncpol developments that shaped NC this year.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Army-Navy Game Meets #NCPOL with Sens Daniel & Brinson & Rep. Ager Dec 11, 2025

The storied Army–Navy Football Game is Saturday afternoon and Sens. Warren Daniel and Bob Brinson, both West Point graduates, and Rep. Eric Ager, a proud Naval Academy alum, are featured guests on this week's pod.

Together, they talk about the traditions of the game, what makes the rivalry and the military academies so special, and they manage to talk a little friendly trash ahead of the big game. It’s a fun, insightful, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about football, camaraderie that transcends politics, and a college football rivalry like no other.

Skye and Brian also break down the growing list of primaries piling up midway through candidate filing, Sen. Berger’s Trump endorsement, Governor Stein backs away from Medicaid cuts, the latest High Point University poll, and the passing of D.G. Martin at age 85. Plus, Skye recaps the gossip from her neighborhood Christmas party.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association

Candidate Filing Season Arrives, Sen. Chris Measmer Joins the Pod Dec 04, 2025

In this latest installment of the pod's #MeetTheFreshman series, Skye and Brian sit down with Sen. Chris Measmer, who was appointed to the Senate following former Majority Leader Paul Newton’s resignation earlier this year.

A multi-generation Cabarrus County native, Sen. Measmer talks about growing up in a community with deep family roots, the path that took him to George Washington University, and his early political experience working for Congressman Robin Hayes on Capitol Hill.

At just 22 years old, the young Republican returned home, won a seat on the Cabarrus County Commission, and served there for more than a decade before joining the NC Senate.

The podcast also unpacks the first few days of candidate filing, take a look at some new laws now in effect, #TOTW, and an update on the unexpected and increasingly bold world of Skye’s foot-fetish fans.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association

Influence NC's Hannah Preston: Giving #NCPOL the Gen Z Glow-Up Nov 20, 2025

Hannah Preston is using her voice and platform at Influence NC to inspire young voters to get involved in the political process. Hannah talks about what motivated her to found Influence NC, what she's doing to reach young voters through social media, and how she wants to include conservative voices in her work.

Skye and Brian also unpack the week in NC politics, including the non-session, a new legislator appointed, ICE in the state, a legislative retirement, a death, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

John Locke’s Andy Jackson Maps Assembly Districts & Forecasts a Bumpy 2026 Nov 13, 2025

With candidate filing for the 2026 elections just weeks away, Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation joins us to unpack the newly updated Civitas Partisan Index — a key measure of how North Carolina’s legislative and congressional districts lean politically.

Andy explains how the CPI works, what makes a district “toss-up,” “lean,” “likely,” or “safe,” and what the numbers suggest about which party could hold power after 2026. We talk about past election surprises, how candidate quality and wave elections can flip districts, and why 2026 could be a bumpy ride for #NCPOL with Republicans on defense and Democrats seeing opportunity.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down a busy week in North Carolina politics — from Governor Stein calling for a special session, to Republican legislators visiting the White House, to new polls, political rumors, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Inside the '08 Expulsion: Former Reps Rick Glazier & Skip Stam on Process & Duty Nov 05, 2025

With Rep. Cecil Brockman’s recent resignation amid questions of possible expulsion, attention has turned to what that process actually looks like in the NC House, and how rare it is for legislators to remove one of their own.

In 2008, the NC House took an extraordinary and historic step — voting 109-5 to expel Rep. Thomas Wright of New Hanover County for ethical misconduct. It was the first time in more than a century that lawmakers had removed one of their own.

In this episode, former Reps. Rick Glazier (D-Cumberland) and Skip Stam (R-Wake) — who chaired and vice-chaired the House Select Ethics Committee that investigated Wright — join us to reflect on that solemn moment in legislative history.

They walk us through the bipartisan process that led to Wright’s expulsion, the “super due process” afforded to him, and the difficult moral and political questions facing the House as it balanced fairness, accountability, and public trust.

It’s a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how North Carolina’s legislature handles its gravest internal matter — the removal of one of its own members.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Mayor Janet Cowell's Journey to Senate Floors to Treasurer Corridors to City Doors Oct 30, 2025

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell's political career has taken her from Raleigh City Council, to the North Carolina Senate, to serving as State Treasurer, and now back to leading the Capital City.

Janet reflects on her time in the Senate — including her decision to hold out on the state lottery vote as one of the “Lottery Five,” a group of Democrats who initially opposed the measure — and how that experience shaped her independence and leadership style. She also discusses her vision for Raleigh’s future, from sustainable growth and smart financial management to the ambitious effort to attract a Major League Baseball team to the City of Oaks.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down an extraordinary week in #ncpol: a sharp Senate press release aimed at House leadership, a school system facing scrutiny, the latest congressional maps lawsuit, how the federal government shutdown is affecting the state, and the political community mourning two recent deaths in North Carolina politics.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Leader Batch's Chief of Staff Lisa Stifler on Friendship & Facing Challenges Oct 23, 2025

Lisa Stifler is the Chief of Staff to Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch — who also happens to be her friend since they were 15. Lisa shares how their lifelong friendship shapes their work at the General Assembly and how she helps navigate the challenges of leading the Senate Democratic caucus.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the week in #ncpol: new congressional redistricting developments, the mini-budget, a Cecil Brockman update, Skye’s exciting family news, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Ag Commissioner Steve Troxler Talks Fried Food, Ferris Wheels, & Farming Oct 16, 2025

We’re on location at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds for a special Do Politics Better episode with NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

From the smell of fried food to the sound of ferris wheels spinning, Commissioner Troxler shares what makes the State Fair one of North Carolina’s most beloved traditions — and why it’s a powerful showcase for the state’s $100 billion agriculture industry.

We talk about the state of farming in North Carolina, his concerns about the loss of farmland, and that memorable moment when he was asked to run for Governor.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack a busy week in North Carolina politics — including the announcement that the General Assembly is redrawing congressional maps, the latest on Rep. Cecil Brockman’s criminal allegations, a split-decision court ruling, candidate news, and much more.

It’s a fun, fairground conversation that blends policy, politics, and fried food.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Donnie Loftis: Army Veteran, Athlete, and His J6 Controversy Oct 09, 2025

Rep. Donnie Loftis shares his story — from his years as a career Army serviceman and elite athlete to managing CVS drug stores and serving on the Gaston County Commission.

In this candid conversation, Loftis reflects on his path to the General Assembly and the controversy surrounding his presence in Washington, D.C. on January 6. He sets the record straight about what happened that day and how it continues to shape his public life and political perspective.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack a full week of NC political news, including Rep. Cecil Brockman facing serious sexual assault charges, Iryna’s Law signed into law, new political candidates emerging, a major rumor being substantiated, and Taylor’s new album reviewed.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Dean Arp: A Life Shaped — Not Defined — by Tragedy Oct 02, 2025

Rep. Dean Arp, one of the chief budget writers in the NC House, reflects on his life and political career. The Union County Republican talks about his reputation in Raleigh as the legislature’s “nice guy,” and the personal tragedies that shaped him—including surviving two fatal car wrecks and growing up without his father, who was in prison during his childhood.

And yes, we ask him about the extraordinary story of him saving an elderly woman’s life from a mobile home fire on his way to the General Assembly earlier this year.

Skye and Brian also unpack a week of news, including tragedy in Southport, a court decision, Medicaid cuts underway, an un-retirement, and it's a great time of year for sports.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Carolina Journal's Donna King: Free Speech, Free Markets, & Free Press Sep 25, 2025

Donna King, editor of the Carolina Journal and one of North Carolina’s most influential conservative journalists, has covered the political battles shaping Raleigh and beyond, offering sharp reporting and unapologetically conservative analysis.

In this conversation, Donna talks about her journey in journalism, what it means to cover politics from a conservative perspective, and why free speech, free markets, and freedom are at the heart of her work. She also shares candid thoughts on today’s media landscape, the role of opinion in political coverage, and how she sees the future of journalism in North Carolina.

Plus, Skye and Brian break down the week in #ncpol, including the budget standoff, what got done (and didn't get done) during this week's legislative session, campaign announcements, rumors, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC's Young Republicans & Young Democrats Unite Against Political Violence Sep 18, 2025

In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, NC Young Republicans President Emily Stack and NC Young Democrats President Zach Finley issued a rare joint statement denouncing political violence and calling for unity. Their message, released just one day after the tragedy, stood in stark contrast to the divisive commentary flooding social media.

On this special episode of Do Politics Better, Skye and Brian sit down with Stack and Finley to talk about why they chose to rise above partisanship at such a critical moment.

The podcast also breaks down the latest rift between the House and Senate, a new Carolina Journal poll, Wiley Nickel's newest race, General Assembly weighs policy changes after Charlotte tragedy, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Commissioner Mike Causey: Insurance, Politics & Wearing an FBI Wire Sep 11, 2025

NC Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey shares his life story, from his early days as an insurance man to his political career that took several attempts before finally winning the office he now holds.

But the most remarkable chapter in his journey came when the Guilford County Republican agreed to wear a wire for the FBI — helping expose corruption at the highest levels of state politics.

Plus, Brian and Skye break down the week’s news: a court case reaches resolution (for now), Charlotte reels from tragedy, Sen. Budd plays hardball, and #TOTW makes its return. Brian reports back from a Brooklyn visit, while Skye celebrates a big birthday and a full football weekend.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Hanging with Dr. Cooper: A Poli-Sci Prof & a Lobbyist Chat NC Politics Sep 04, 2025

Political Science professor Chris Cooper (Western Carolina University) joins Brian for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of North Carolina politics in 2025.

They unpack what to expect from the legislative session, the latest chapter in the ongoing saga of gerrymandering, and how Governor Josh Stein is navigating the political landscape. The two also discuss the rise of a new Speaker of the House, Senator Phil Berger’s high-stakes primary, the brewing U.S. Senate race, and much more.

Plus, Skye and Brian kick things off by breaking down the week’s news: a new AI panel takes shape, the September session looms large, a former senator is remembered, the Bill Belichick Era begins, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Teen DJ Turned Politics Journalist: Colin Campbell’s Life in Radio & Politics Aug 28, 2025

WUNC’s Capital Bureau Chief Colin Campbell has been covering North Carolina politics for over a decade across newspapers, digital outlets, and now public radio. Colin shares how his love for broadcasting began as a teenager reading the news at a small station in Virginia, and how that early passion led him into a long career reporting on the people and policies shaping our state.

Skye and Brian also dig into the behind-the-scenes of his own weekly podcast — how he chooses stories, brings in voices from across the political spectrum, and balances the immediacy of daily news with deeper conversations. Away from the mic, Colin talks about life in Wendell with his family, finding community in a fast-growing town just outside Raleigh, and what keeps him grounded after long days at the legislature.

Plus, new polling numbers from Catawba College, Governor Stein’s appointment of a bipartisan task force, yet another General Assembly rematch, the Taylor + Travis cultural moment, and how students are finding creative ways around a new state law in public schools.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Ardis Watkins’ Boots Were Made for Lobbying for State Employees Aug 21, 2025

This week on the podcast, we sit down with Ardis Watkins, Executive Director of the State Employees Association of NC, whose big hair, cowboy boots, and Texas roots have made her a standout advocate for North Carolina’s state employees.

Ardis shares her perspective on the 2025 legislative session, the challenges and opportunities ahead for SEANC, and how the organization’s bipartisan culture is built on loyalty to policymakers who stand with state employees—no matter their party.

We also learn that the former Texan is now a grandmother, once pursued her passion as an inspiring songwriter, and eventually found her path to law school and leadership at SEANC.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack the news, take a closer look at an odd veto vote in the Senate last month, and reminisce about the return of the Presidential Fitness Test.

It’s a conversation full of personality, politics, and a little nostalgia—don’t miss it.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Dana Jones: Doing Politics Better Long Before Arriving in Raleigh Aug 14, 2025

In this Meet the Freshmen episode, Skye and Brian sit down with Sen. Dana Jones — a small business owner, former Chair of the Forsyth County School Board, and one of the newest faces in the North Carolina Senate.

The Forsyth County Republican shares why she decided to run for the seat after Sen. Joyce Krawiec announced she wouldn’t seek re-election, and how her experience on the school board prepared her for life in Raleigh. Sen. Jones also talks about the challenges she’s faced outside of politics, including the devastating fire that destroyed her family’s business — and how resilience has been a constant theme in her life.

Plus, John Locke polling, a veto, campaign finance reports, a rumor, #TOTW, Taylor Swift, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Longleaf Politics' Andrew Dunn, a Conservative, Pulls No Partisan Punches Aug 07, 2025

Andrew Dunn, publisher of Longleaf Politics and editorial writer for the Charlotte Observer, joins us for a candid conversation about the state of media, politics, and his journey through both in this one-on-one conversation with Brian.

A former advisor to Lt. Governor Dan Forest's gubernatorial campaign, Dunn brings an insider’s perspective to both the press and politics — and he's not shy about calling out Republicans or Democrats when the moment calls for it.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Obama Alum, State Senator: A Conversation with Sophia Chitlik Jul 31, 2025

Before arriving at the General Assembly, Sen. Sophia Chitlik served in the Obama administration — bringing a national policy lens to local politics.

In this episode, the freshman Durham Democrat reflects on her path from presidential staffer to political upstart, including her primary win last year over a popular incumbent. Plus, she shares how she builds unlikely friendships across the aisle — even as she disagrees with her Senate colleagues — with a quirky charm and intentionality that’s as strategic as it is sincere.

Skye and Brian also rundown a week of veto overrides, a mini-budget emerges, reg reform on ice, Tomato Sandwich Day, #ncpol and Happy Gilmore 2, and an upcoming birthday.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Longtime Tillis Advisor Jordan Shaw on His Boss' Exit, Legacy, and '26 Jul 23, 2025

Jordan Shaw's connection to U.S. Senator Thom Tillis dates back to 2009, when Shaw was communications director for the NC Republican Party and Tillis was House Minority Whip.

Sixteen years later, Shaw is a founding partner at Gamechangers Strategies — where Tillis remains one of his clients—and he joins us to break down one of the biggest developments in North Carolina politics: Tillis' decision not to run for re-election in 2026.

Shaw shares his perspective on the Senator’s legacy, his influence on conservatism in the state, and what this means for the GOP’s future in North Carolina and beyond. We also look ahead to 2026 — and what might be next for both Shaw and the broader political landscape.

Plus, Skye and Brian preview the upcoming legislative action in Raleigh and keep the always-watchful #CooperWatch going.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Treasurer Brad Briner is Invested in NC's Future Jul 17, 2025

NC Treasurer Brad Briner joins us for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about money, policy, and personal growth. Briner opens up about how his family’s early financial struggles shaped his outlook, created educational opportunities, and launched a successful career in finance.

Now managing the state’s money, the first term Republican talks with us about the challenges with the State Health Plan, the future of the pension system, and his perspective on bitcoin, digital assets, and the national debt.

Skye and Brian also unpack the week in #ncpol news: Attorney General Jeff Jackson is taking on the Trump Administration with a pair of lawsuits,Charlotte lands the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, candidates are already jumping into the 2026 election cycle, and tragedy strikes the family of a sitting state senator.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

2025 Session Wrap-Up (So Far) with Sen. Amy Galey & Rep. Dante Pittman Jul 10, 2025

As the long session (allegedly) winds down, Sen. Amy Galey (R-Alamance/Randolph) and Rep. Dante Pittman (D-Wilson/Nash) join the podcast for a wrap-up conversation on the bills, the budget, and the big political themes of 2025 at the NC General Assembly so far.

The discussion includes legislation they worked on directly, the raw milk debate, shrimp trawling, immigration, permitless carry, hemp regulation, Tomato Sandwich Day, and what didn’t make it to the finish line, such as a budget.

It’s part recap, part forecast, and full of insight from both chambers.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

'Are You Here for the Shrimp or the Hemp?' Jun 26, 2025

It’s the legislative equivalent of the last day of school before trackout — but with more shrimp, last-minute amendments, and a surprise parliamentary showdown in the Senate.

In this episode, Skye and Brian break down the hectic final week before lawmakers head into their summer recess. From the politics of hemp and seafood to adjournment resolutions and the bills that didn’t make the cut, we’ve got it all.

Plus, a standout Tweet of the Week and the moments that had the legislative building buzzing. Are you here for the shrimp or the hemp? Either way, pull up a chair.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Allen Buansi’s Balancing Act Representing Chapel Hill Values at the General Assembly Jun 19, 2025

Rep. Allen Buansi started his elected political career as a Chapel Hill Town Council member and worked as an attorney with the NC Department of Justice before being elected to represent one of the most progressive communities in NC in the General Assembly.

The Dartmouth College graduate talks about navigating partisan divides, staying grounded in Chapel Hill values, and the challenges of pushing local priorities through a legislature often not politically aligned with his district.

Skye and Brian also update listeners on the budget, bills moving and some crashing, an unfortunate social media post, #TOTW, and a House page that reminds us of young Skye.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Buck Newton's Ride from House Page to State Senator Jun 12, 2025

Long before he was elected to the Senate, young Buck Newton from Wilson walked the halls of the Legislative Building as a House Page in the 1980s—an experience that not only sparked his interest in politics but also led to meeting his future wife.

Sen. Newton reflects on his early exposure to public service, his return to Raleigh decades later as a successful candidate in 2010, and his role in helping Republicans flip the General Assembly for the first time in over a century.

From page to senator to statewide candidate and back again, it’s a candid conversation about lessons learned, battles fought, and what keeps him in the game.

Plus, Skye and Brian update listeners on budget news and rumors, controversial legislation heading to Gov. Stein, #TOTW, bad breaker-uppers, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Inside Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch’s Playbook Jun 05, 2025

Sen. Sydney Batch is six months into her new role as Senate Democratic Leader, and it's obvious that her caucus is following a different strategy compared to past sessions.

The western Wake Democrat returns to the pod (first appearance was in 2021) to about this new strategy and message, her approach to bipartisan negotiations, how she thinks the budget showdown will play out, and her plans for 2026 mid-terms.

Skye and Brian also talk about the latest in those budget talks, a couple leadership bills on the move, Governor Stein on late night TV, Sen. Liddy Dole honored, #TOTW, hugs, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Jimmy Broughton, Sen. Jesse Helms’ Chief of Staff, Reflects on His Former Boss May 29, 2025

In this special recess episode, Skye and Brian sit down with Jimmy Broughton, former Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Jesse Helms, for a rare and candid conversation about his time working for one of the most important and controversial political figures in North Carolina and American politics.

Broughton shares behind-the-scenes stories from Capitol Hill, offers personal insights into Helms' style and friendships, and reflects on the senator’s legacy.

Whether you admired Sen. Helms or were turned off by him, this episode offers a firsthand look at the man behind the headlines and political cartoons, told by someone who knew him best.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Grant Campbell: A Wartime Trauma Surgeon's Memorial Day May 22, 2025

In this special Memorial Day episode, Skye and Brian sit down with Rep. Grant Campbell, a former wartime trauma surgeon, to talk about the solemn holiday from his perspective.

The Cabarrus County Republican talks about the chaos of combat medicine to the quiet moments of remembrance, and the haunting questions that still linger.

Whether you’ve served in uniform, know someone who has, or simply seek a deeper understanding of Memorial Day’s true significance, this episode offers a heartfelt and unflinching perspective.

Plus, the House budget drops and drama ensues, another Helene package emerges, a veteran lawmaker announces retirement, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Ray Jeffers' Life on the Family Farm Shaped His Politics May 15, 2025

Rep. Ray Jeffers talks about the deep roots that ground his politics and public service, including stories from his upbringing on his family’s 106-year-old farm by his mother and grandparents.

The Person County Democrat reflects on the lessons they passed down, his early love of training dogs, and how those rural experiences continue to shape his perspective in the General Assembly.

Skye and Brian also give a preview of the House budget from subcommittees, Democrats hold a funeral for their bills, raw milk debates gets dangerous, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Mr. McDowell Goes to Washington May 08, 2025

Congressman Addison McDowell takes listeners behind the scenes of his 2023 decision to jump in the 2024 race for Congress in the 6th district, the bruising 2024 primary that came with it, and how he won the early endorsement of President Trump.

Skye and Brian also break down a hectic crossover week at the NC General Assembly, major news in the NC Supreme Court race, NC State Board of Election transitions, #TOTW, and Skye talks about her recent stint as a grooms-woman.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Coffee Talk with Rep. Beth Helfrich May 01, 2025

Rep. Beth Helfrich shares her deep roots in Davidson as a third-generation resident, a former teacher, and owner of a successful coffee shop with her husband Tim and family.

The freshman Mecklenburg County Democrat also talks about raising five kids, what led her to run for the House in 2024 in a swing district, and her commute to Raleigh on the train.

Plus, Skye and Brian are joined by New Frame intern Claudia Vial to talk crossover, House getting to work on the budget, a perennial budget rumor, a floor debate in the House over DEI, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Reagan Perry, Daughter of Former Sen Jim Perry, & the Bill That Bears Her Name Apr 24, 2025

In this special episode, Skye and Brian sit down with Reagan Perry, daughter of former North Carolina State Senator Jim Perry, for a heartfelt conversation.

Reagan opens up about the life-altering experience of losing her leg, the physical and emotional challenges she’s faced, and how she turned her pain into purpose through Reagan’s Law (HB906), a bipartisan effort to improve care and support for future amputees in North Carolina.

This conversation is about the power of resilience, the impact of family legacy, and how one young woman’s voice is shaping policy and hope for countless others who are striving to live full and active lives.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Jimmy Dixon Reflects on Easter & His Mormon (LDS) Faith Apr 17, 2025

Rep. Jimmy Dixon makes his third podcast appearance (his last one was 2023) to reflect on Easter and his Mormon faith, which includes membership and local leadership roles in the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The 8-term Duplin County Republican opens up about his conversion to LDS in 1976, the differences from the Methodist church he grew up in, and what Easter means to him.

Skye and Brian break down details and drama as the Senate budget was unveiled, debated, and approved with twists and turns. Meanwhile the House debate gets hot in the absence of Speaker Hall as he and his wife welcome a son. And we get somber news from Rep. Mike Clampitt.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Caleb Theodros' American Story Began in East Africa Apr 10, 2025

Sen. Caleb Theodros began his life in Eritrea, a country in East Africa torn apart by civil conflict in the 1990s. At age five, his family brought him to the United States in search of a better life. After a brief stay in Las Vegas, the Theodros family relocated to Charlotte where they created a life for themselves.

20 years later, Sen Theodros earned a degree from UNC Charlotte, worked in banking, managed local campaigns, and successfully ran in 2024 for a NC Senate seat that required he survive a brutal Democratic primary that included spying and car trackers.

Skye and Brian also break down the House bill filing deadline, action in the Senate as they prepare a budget for next week, US Senate candidate announces, DPB Bracket Challenge winner, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Politics, Party Labels, & Performance (Audits) with Auditor Dave Boliek Apr 03, 2025

Over the last 90 days, the State Auditor position has transformed from a state agency that released audits for various NC departments, agencies, local governments, and non-profits to a department that is working proactively in concert with the General Assembly to hold the entire NC executive branch accountable.

At the helm, is Auditor Dave Boliek, who won the position in November after surviving a bruising primary that resulted in a summer runoff. The Republican Auditor opens up about his political party affiliation (he was once a Democrat), his vision for the department, and his take on Tarheel politics.

Skye and Brian also break down the Senate Regulatory Reform Committee's inaugural meeting, House Rules approved, a new Senate Majority Leader, a Senate budget update, #TOTW, pollen, and mens' fashion choices inside the General Assembly.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Phil Rubin: "I Was a 'West Wing' Kid" Mar 27, 2025

Earlier this session, the General Assembly lost Rep. Joe John to cancer at 85. Rep. John would be proud of his Democratic replacement, who is an attorney, policy wonk, and one to debate the intricacies of the law without making it personal.

Meet the newly appointed freshman legislator from Wake County: Rep. Phil Rubin, who was a federal prosecutor, a Special NC Deputy Attorney General, and a policy director for Meta.

Skye and Brian also talk about an epic week at the General Assembly: Senate Majority Leader Paul Newton resigns, hundreds of Senate bills filed, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Reps. Charlie Miller & Reece Pyrtle on Policing, Politics, & Friendship Mar 20, 2025

Reps. Charlie Miller (R-Brunswick) and Reece Pyrtle (R-Rockingham) share a legislative office suite, many committee assignments, and a bond built around their former careers as law enforcement officers in their communities.

The former chief deputy (Miller) and police chief (Pyrtle) talk about their first encounter, their friendship, and how their relationship to their respective Senate colleagues gives them a unique insight into the state's bicameral system of government.

Skye and Brian discuss Governor Josh Stein's budget proposal to the General Assembly, a bipartisan Helene package agreement is reached, a pair of controversial gun bills on the move, tobacco and vaping bills filed, NC State has a new chancellor, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Old School Politics + New Tech Tools Won Rep. Bryan Cohn a House Seat Mar 13, 2025

When Rep. Bryan Cohn decided to challenge an incumbent in 2024, he executed a plan that was based on old school politics combined with new tech tools. By the time election night rolled in, he knew he was in an excellent position to win the seat.

The Oxford Democrat also talks about the uniqueness of his swing district, including a violent civil rights history documented in the book/movie Blood Done Sign My Name.

Skye and Brian also break down Governor Stein’s State of the State Address, the Speaker’s response, action on key bills in the General Assembly, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Jonathan Almond on Anguish, Transformation, & Purpose Mar 06, 2025

As a financial controller, Rep. Jonathan Almond is familiar with sifting through data, studies, and spreadsheets to look for answers. It's what he did when COVID shut down the world, when his twin boys were diagnosed with autism, and it's what he plans to do as a Cabarrus County legislator.

However, the 38-year old Republican is not just about the numbers. He's felt anguish for his twin boys, he's grieved, and he's been broken. Rep. Almond talks candidly about the transformation he continues to make through faith, family, and friends, and how that journey led him to the General Assembly.

Plus, Skye and Brian talk about the Senate Helene package, an alphabet soup of bills (ICE, DEI and AG) on the move, a parliamentary question, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Dante Pittman: A Young, Old School Democrat from Wilson Feb 27, 2025

Spend enough time with Rep. Dante Pittman, the 28-year old legislator representing Wilson and part of Nash Counties, and it's evident the freshman legislator is a throwback Democrat.

The National Guard captain describes himself as pro business, pro public education, and pro health care. He also believes in the power of family, including a single mother who raised him and his brother, and loving grandparents who played a pivotal role in his life.

Plus, Skye and I talk about the House Helene bill, a DMV resignation, pair of controversial Senate bills, competing mobile phone bills, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Heather Rhyne, a Pharmacist, Has a Prescription for Better Politics Feb 19, 2025

Rep. Heather Rhyne started her official freshman term this year after getting a head start in the House last summer when former Rep. Jason Saine resigned his seat to enter the private sector.

The Lincoln County Republican started her political career on her county's local school board and brings a focus to the General Assembly that is focused on supporting all facets of education and health care. As a pharmacist, she's got ideas based on her career experience.

Plus, winter weather is hitting much of the state, an announced primary challenger to the state's most powerful political leader, North Carolina's preliminary fiscal forecast released, limited action in the General Assembly this week, #TOTW, and DOGE suggestions for NC.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Tracy Clark's Search for the Middle on Divisive Issues Feb 13, 2025

Rep. Tracy Clark has a list "whys" on her decision to serve in the General Assembly. Two of the three issues that motivated the Guilford County freshman Democrat are the most divisive in politics, but she's optimistic that she can find middle ground, especially with those in her freshman class.

Also, the House drops a Helene package a week after Governor Stein proposes his. Next up is the Senate and hopefully Congress. An unsubstantiated rumor circulates, celebrating a NC Supreme Court decision, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Wyatt Gable: A New Generation in NC Politics Feb 06, 2025

There's a good chance you wore a garment of clothing this week that is older than the 22-year old freshman legislator from Onslow County. Rep. Wyatt Gable visits with Skye and Brian to talk about his improbable political journey to the General Assembly that began in a college economics class a couple years back.

Now the eastern NC Republican is a senior in college and stepping into the 2025-2026 biennium ready to get to work for his constituents while serving as an inspiration to a new generation of voters and future office holders.

Plus, former Lt. Governor withdraws lawsuit, Helene spending plans, a Senate gun bill, Cooper v Tillis news drip, #TOTW, class photos, Super Bowl, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Woodson Bradley's Story of Survival, Healing, & Uplifting Others Jan 30, 2025

Sen. Woodson Bradley is a sexual assault survivor and in this powerful podcast conversation with Skye and Brian she talks about a dark and painful time in her life that led her to this moment as a freshman state senator advocating for change.

The Mecklenburg County Democrat also self-describes as a moderate who campaigned on a pro-law enforcement, pro-business, and pro-public education platform.

The General Assembly gets to work as a House schedule and full committee assignments are released, bill filing begins, a new House member seated, an unsubstantiated rumor surrounding Sen. Danny Earl Britt, a pair of disaster relief hearings, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Grant Campbell, an OB/GYN, Wants to Deliver for His District Jan 23, 2025

Rep. Grant Campbell was raised by a single mother under very challenging circumstances in rural Lee and Harnett Counties. The experience shaped every aspect of his life, including his decision to attend UNC (undergrad and medical school), become an OB/GYN, join the military, pen a novel, and serve in the General Assembly.

The freshman Republican representing part of Cabarrus County opens up about his life, including his work, family, and unique approach to politics and policymaking.

Plus, Skye and Brian discuss Governor Stein's executive order, Attorney General news, House committee chair assignments, Rep. Joe John dies, #TOTW, and a big week in NC for snow.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Meet Rep. Mike Schietzelt, a Marine, Musician, Attorney, & Legislator Jan 16, 2025

In part 2 of the podcast's Meet the Freshmen series, Skye and Brian sit down with Rep. Mike Schietzelt, who won a hard-fought swing election in November.

The Wake County Republican talks about growing up without means, his love of music and the law, and ultimately his faith-based decision to run for the House.

Plus, Senate committee assignments, staff announcements, a veteran TV journalist transitions, Sen. Tillis gets a GOP challenger, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

'Meet the Freshmen' Series Kicks Off with Rep. Monika Johnson-Hostler Jan 09, 2025

Rep. Monika Johnson-Hostler is a freshman legislator, but she's no stranger to the General Assembly as she's been working in and around the building since 1999, when she started her career at the NC Coalition Against Sexual Assault, which is represented by New Frame.

The Wake County Democrat talks about her advocacy work, her service on the Wake County School Board, and her decision to run for the NC House when Rep. Rosa Gill announced her retirement.

Plus, a New Year ushers in a new legislative session, a new Governor and Council of State, and a new House Speaker. Skye and Brian unpack it all and talk about their predictions for the coming year.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Wrapping Up 2024 with Senators Todd Johnson & Jay Chaudhuri Dec 19, 2024

Senators Todd Johnson and Jay Chaudhuri join Skye and Brian to wrap up 2024, including key legislation, twists and turns, and a topsy-turvy election as a backdrop. The Republican and Democratic lawmakers also talk about their family Christmas traditions.

The podcast also runs down the news from this past week, #TOTW, holiday gifts, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Brad Crone on When Conservative Democrats Ran NC Politics Dec 11, 2024

There was a time before 2010 in which conservative Democrats ran NC politics, including the General Assembly and much of its leadership team. And behind the campaign curtain of the 'Crone Caucus' was campaign consultant Brad Crone.

The Johnston County native talks about his career in politics, the partisan realignment in NC, and an assessment of where Democrats are today in the aftermath of the 2024 election.

Skye and Brian also break down the House veto session, constitutional amendments, the NC State Board of Election hearing, Dan Bishop's nomination, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Remembering Tim Kent: A Conversation with Stephen Kent Dec 04, 2024

Tim Kent was a journalist, lobbyist, association leader, and a friend to all who knew him, worked with him, and even opposed him on legislation at the General Assembly. But many have no idea that Tim's legendary kindness and charity towards others was the byproduct of a man who was broken in 2010.

Stephen Kent (DPB guest in 2021) was Tim's oldest son and he sits down with Skye and Brian to talk about his father's life, the "wilderness" Tim found himself in 15 years ago, and how it changed the way Tim lived his life, loved those around him, and was always one to reach out when people needed a kind word.

The podcast also unpacks the Senate session on Monday, Senate Democrats elect a new leader, a House rumor, the election that will not end, #TOTW, cults, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

New House Majority Leader Brenden Jones Talks New Leadership Team Nov 21, 2024

Rep. Brenden Jones is the new House Majority Leader in 2025-2026 and ascends to the role as Rep. Destin Hall, Jones' friend and roommate, will be Speaker of the House.

The four-term veteran lawmaker from Columbus County opens up about the House's new leadership team, their plans for the biennium, including building bridges with the Senate leadership and House Democrats.

Skye and Brian also break down a volatile special session this week, Republicans elect leadership teams in House and Senate, #TOTW, Thanksgiving, and remembering Tim Kent.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Dr. Jeff Warren on Science, Politics, & Religion for Hyper-Partisan Times Nov 14, 2024

Most of the NC politics world knows Dr. Jeff Warren as Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger's first science advisor starting in 2011 before he began work at the NC Collaboratory in 2017.

Dr. Warren talks about is policy work for Sen. Berger, his career at what is now the NC Department of Environmental Quality before working in the Senate, the creation of the NC Collaboratory in 2016, teaching science policy at UNC, and how he squares politics, science, and religion.

Plus, Skye and Brian talk about a pair of outstanding Senate and Supreme Court races still counting ballots, big campaign donors, the General Assembly's lame-duck session, House leadership elections, former Labor Commish Josh Dobson's new gig, gubernatorial transition team, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Breaking Down NC's 2024 Election Results Nov 06, 2024

Skye and Brian go through the 2024 election results, including the race for NC's 16 Electoral College votes, U.S. Congress, Governor and Council of State, the General Assembly, the NC courts, and more.

They also talk about the possible power dynamic between a new Democratic governor and his former colleagues in the General Assembly.

Plus #TOTW, holiday decorations, and what to do now that the election is over.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Congressman Patrick McHenry Reflects on His Career Start at the NC General Assembly Oct 31, 2024

Congressman Patrick McHenry is wrapping up a storied 20-year career in the U.S. Congress this December. The Republican from the 10th District talks to Brian about his time in Congress, including the nearly three weeks in 2023 he spent as the Speaker of the House, as well as his first elected position as a state legislator in the General Assembly in 2003-2004.

Skye and Brian also talk about strong early voting numbers, campaign finance reports, final polling, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

License to Legislate: Rep. Jake Johnson Talks Helene, Politics, & 007 Fandom Oct 24, 2024

Rep. Jake Johnson is Western North Carolina to his core. Born and raised in rural Polk County, he knows just about everyone in his close-knit district spanning over Rutherford, McDowell, Henderson, and his home county. The 30-year old Republican talks about his public service, including his important position as co-chair of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, also called Gov-Ops for short.

However, the conversation isn't all business as Skye and Brian discover Rep. Johnson has a love for (almost) all things James Bond, and he has family ties to moonshine, racing, and coon dogs.

Plus, NC is inside two weeks of Election Day, early voting numbers are coming in strong, Mark Robinson amends his lawsuit, #TOTW, Skye's appearance on State Lines gets unwanted attention to her feet, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Consultants Nathan Babcock (GOP) & Kimberly Reynolds (Dem) Preview the Election Oct 17, 2024

Political consultants Nathan Babcock, a Republican, and Kimberly Reynolds, a Democrat, preview the 2024 General Election. The veteran operatives discuss #ncpol races from U.S. President to Council of State to the General Assembly, including the disruptive effect of the Mark Robinson scandal on all races.

Skye and Brian also talk early voting, the Lt. Governor's press conference, the latest Carolina Journal Poll, Rep. Jimmy Dixon is running for House Majority Leader, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Chris Cooper's 'Anatomy of a Purple State' & Helene's Election Effect Oct 10, 2024

Professor Chris Cooper's 'Anatomy of a Purple State' hit bookstores this week and the Western Carolina University political scientist stops by the podcast to discuss it with Skye and Brian.

While in Raleigh, Dr. Cooper also talks about Hurricane Helene's impact on his part of the state and the effect he thinks the aftermath of the storm will have on the November 5th election. And speaking of unprecedented storms, Cooper also talks about Mark Robinson's possible effect on down ballot races.

Plus, the General Assembly returns to Raleigh to begin addressing the Helene recovery process, three new House members seated, swing state POTUS polling, an #ncpol reporter moves up and out, former Rep. Phil Haire dies, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Kelly McCullen on the Ever Shifting 'State Lines' of NC Politics Oct 03, 2024

Kelly McCullen is the host of State Lines, a weekly roundtable public affairs show that features political analysts, journalists and elected officials. Kelly also serves as executive producer to several PBS-NC public affairs shows, including Side by Side with Nido Qubein and The NC Listening Project.

The Clinton native also talks about his start in broadcasting at a regional AM radio station in Sampson County, his path to TV journalism, and his witness to political change in the General Assembly over the last 20 years.

Plus, Skye and Brian talk about the devastation in western NC caused by Helene, 2 new court cases, new polling, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Mike Carpenter Built a Powerhouse Lobbying Program, Career, & Legacy Sep 26, 2024

Lobbyist Mike Carpenter is a fixture at the General Assembly in his role as General Counsel at the NC Home Builders Association. However, many don't realize that it was Mike who started the government relations program at NCHBA in 1989 after a career prosecuting drug dealers in the NC Attorney General's Office.

Mike takes listeners all the way to 1971, when he was a college intern in the Lt. Governor's Office (one of the most powerful legislative offices in state government at the time), his stint a few years later working for U.S. Sen. Sam Irvin on the Watergate Committee, and surviving a plane crash in western NC in 1984.

This week's #TOTW also sets Skye and Brian up to discuss the bombshell news still rocking #NCPOL.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Bob Brinson's Life of Public Service Continues in the NC Senate Sep 19, 2024

Note from DPB: This podcast was recorded the day before CNN broke the news about Lt. Governor Mark Robinson's alleged online pornography posts. Skye and Brian record a brief intro before the podcast starts to give listeners a heads up to this fact and to comment about the gravity of the news. The podcast will talk more about the controversy next week.

Sen. Bob Brinson (R-Lenoir/Craven/Beaufort) is the newest member of the NC Senate, and after his first day of casting votes in the September legislative session, he sat down with Skye and Brian to talk about his life, military career, and public service, including the dramatic hours leading up to him filing for his Senate seat.

Then Sen. Benton Sawrey co-hosts the podcast with Brian as Skye enjoys a vacation trip. The Johnston County Republican helps Brian understand the latest Carolina Journal Poll from the John Locke Foundation, with a focus on the four swing Senate races.

They also discuss AI campaigning, nominee taking the seat of the late Rep. Kelly Alexander, a storm hits the coast, the Christian Action League is dissolving, #TOTW, NC State football, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

GOP Political Operative Jonathan Felts: 'I'm Not One to Back Down from the Press' Sep 12, 2024

If you're a Republican embroiled in a media dust-up, Jonathan Felts is the guy to call. Whether reporters are inquiring about a Kentucky Bourbon Trail or an election complaint has been filed, Felts is the guy who likes to take problems head on.

Felts talks to Skye and Brian about growing up in Davie County, his conservative upbringing, life in Washington, DC, his work on high profile campaigns, and what brought him back to North Carolina.

Plus, a veteran lawmaker dies, lots of action in the General Assembly, new polling, #TOTW, and a wild youth baseball game in Raleigh.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Meet Braxton Winston, the Democratic Candidate for Labor Commissioner Sep 05, 2024

A fatal 2016 police shooting in Charlotte thrusted Braxton Winston onto the political/advocacy scene and eventually led him to make a successful bid for the Charlotte City Council a year later.

Now, the Onslow County native is running statewide for Labor Commissioner as a Democrat. Braxton discusses the race and why he feels his experience as a Union member makes him uniquely qualified to protect North Carolina workers.

Plus, Skye and Brian preview a weeklong legislative session next week, a bombshell story from The Assembly, POTUS politics, a resignation, #TOTW, faking fall, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Meet Luke Farley, the GOP Candidate for Labor Commissioner Aug 29, 2024

Luke Farley is new to politics. Yet, the Onslow County native surprised the NC political world when he won a heated Republican primary race for Labor Commissioner against a candidate with more name recognition and high profile endorsements from around the state.

Luke discusses the primary campaign and the general election, including his experience as a labor attorney, and why he feels he's uniquely qualified to protect North Carolina workers.

Skye and Brian also talk about Beth Wood's endorsement of a Republican in the race for her old job, an election complaint, state employee endorsements, new polls, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Tim Kent's Time Machine Travels to When the Lt Governor Ran the Senate Aug 22, 2024

There was a time when the Lieutenant Governor ran the NC Senate and had powers equal to the NC Speaker of the House. Some would argue that from 1973-1988, the so-called second-in-command had more powers than even the Governor.

Tim Kent is the Executive Director of the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association and he was a reporter at WRAL when the LG was stripped of most legislative power in 1988 after a Republican won the position. This is Tim's second visit to the podcast after he walked listeners through the overthrow of a sitting House Speaker, also in 1988.

Plus, Skye and Brian discuss Rep. John Faircloth's resignation, Speaker Moore's schedule announcement, POTUS campaign updates, digital IDs, TOTW, Lil Jon, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC GOP Chair Jason Simmons Wants to Keep the Conservative Party Going in '24 Aug 15, 2024

NC Republican Party Chairman Jason Simmons stops by the podcast to talk about the RNC Convention in Milwaukee, the Republican case against Vice President Kamala Harris, and his professional transition from Executive Director to Chairman of the NC GOP.

The California native talks about growing up an Army kid, his move to South Carolina, managing campaigns, and his love of North Carolina, its barbecue, and the people.

Plus, Skye and Brian talk about shifting and dynamic North Carolina polls, a new legislator named, medical debt relief, presidential politics in NC, NC tourism spending up again, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Garland Pierce, a Rural Democrat Who Keeps Winning Aug 08, 2024

In his last visit to the podcast in February 2023, Rep. Garland Pierce had just won his 10th election to the NC House in a hard fought battle against a well funded Republican challenger. In 2024, he's in another difficult and expensive fight to represent Hoke and Scotland Counties.

In this special edition of the podcast, Rep. Pierce talks politics, his election, and how he leverages his votes on legislation to benefit his poor, rural district.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Political Polling, Partisan Indexes & More with John Locke Foundation's Donald Bryson Aug 01, 2024

Political polling has always been under public scrutiny, but the 2016 election took our skepticism to an all new level. To help us understand polling, Skye and Brian sit down with John Locke Foundation CEO Donald Bryson, whose organization issues ten #ncpol polls each year.

Plus, the podcast discusses Governor Cooper's exit from VP consideration, veto overrides, Republican House Caucus TV ad budget, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and winning gold at the Olympics.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

The Dark Side of Politics with Political Operative Dan Crawford Jul 25, 2024

Independent expenditures and c4s are an increasingly important yet misunderstood part of modern day politics. So what is an IE and a c4, and how do they function in a political ecosystem? Veteran political operative Dan Crawford stops by the podcast to have a conversation about it.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack a wild week in NC politics, including Gov. Cooper Veepstakes, new members selected, staffing changes, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

House GOP Caucus Director Stephen Wiley is Bullish About 2024 Jul 18, 2024

Stephen Wiley has one job as the NC House Republican Caucus director: Win elections so the GOP maintains control of the House. The one-time Apple store employee talks about how the political landscape looks in 2024, the quality of candidates he's fielding versus those he's facing, and his take on the future of the Republican brand.

Skye and Brian talk about a pair of General Assembly resignations, staff changes in the Senate, quarterly fundraising reports, CNBC's business rankings, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, camping, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC Democratic Chair Anderson Clayton is the Life of the Party Jul 11, 2024

This podcast episode is the first of two featuring conversations with the elected chairs of the Democratic and Republican parties in NC.

NC Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton is everywhere it seems. Following her on social media can be downright dizzying as she criss-crosses the state (and nation) as she pushes out her party's message.

However, there is another side to the 26-year old Person County native and she opens up to Skye and Brian, including her father's vote for President Trump in 2016, the role her mother and late grandmother played in her life, and why she lets out a F-bomb now and then.

With Skye traveling this week, NC Home Builders Association lobbyist Steven Webb joins Brian in unpacking the news, including the latest vetoes, the pending veto overrides, a rundown of bills that didn't make it, Sen. Jim Perry resigns, and Senate Republicans go big early in election ad-buys. The two also discuss their latest visits to the doctor.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Brent Jackson's Take on the Budget Impasse as Session (Kind Of) Wraps Jun 27, 2024

Senate 'Big Chair' Brent Jackson is a featured guest one week after his House counterpart, Rep. Jason Saine, made his case for the House budget on the podcast.

The Senate budget writer talks about the impasse with the House, the decision to go it alone with the budget after the House submitted its own, the Farm Act, watermelons and cantaloupes, and how he plans to spend the rest of his summer.

Skye and Brian also break down the last days of session before we return in the fall, including veto overrides, constitutional amendments, spending agreements, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

House 'Big Chair' Jason Saine on How We Got Here in the Budget Process Jun 19, 2024

After weeks of hearing that a budget would be a conference report agreement between the House and Senate, the House pulled the trigger and released its own budget this week. Meanwhile the Senate said it's heading home at the end of June.

Rep. Jason Saine is a senior budget writer in the House and he takes listeners behind-the-scenes on how we got here in the process and what we can expect next.

In other news, some bills are merging, others are collapsing, and all signs point to a General Assembly shut down in July and August.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Democratic Ad Man Frank Eaton Opens Up About His Craft Jun 13, 2024

Listeners may not know Frank Eaton's name, but it's likely they're very familiar with his political ads. They include eye-popping, attention-getting productions for Rep. Charles Graham, Rep. Deb Butler, Sen. Graig Meyer, Sen. Rachel Hunt, and Lt. Governor Walter Dalton. The former UNC School of the Arts student also has clients in other states.

Frank talks about his Emmy-award winning work and his predictions on what kind of ads we'll see during this election cycle in North Carolina.

Skye and Brian also update listeners on the latest budget news, the mask/campaign finance bill gets final votes, a lawsuit in Carteret County over the school calendar law, Race of the Week, #TOTW, baseball fashion, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Senate Senior Policy Counsel Brent Woodcox: 'I'm a Man of Peace' Jun 06, 2024

Brent Woodcox serves as the Senior Policy Counsel to Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and Senate Republicans. Brent also has a presence on X (formerly Twitter) where he weighs in on policy and politics.

Recently, Brent came under fire from a Republican activist who questioned the lifelong Republican's political loyalty. Brent talks about his social media, his work in the Senate, his faith, and more.

Skye and Brian also unpack the drama in the General Assembly today about a compromise mask/campaign finance bill, Stein launches negative ad, medical marijuana bill up in smoke, pair of state constitutional amendments, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Why Sen. Mary Wills Bode is Not on the Ballot in 2024 May 30, 2024

Sen. Mary Wills Bode was Democrats' new hope after the 2022 election in which she won a competitive Senate seat and put up solid numbers in rural part of her Wake-Granville counties district. However, within a year Sen. Bode announced she was not seeking re-election, was rumored to run statewide, but after the candidate filing in December she was undeclared for any elective office.

Sen. Bode talks about her decision, she gives a run-down of the short session, and she responds to a recent appearance on the podcast by a Senate Republican.

Plus, Skye and Brian send condolences to Speaker Tim Moore, Stein-Robinson polling, a budget update, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, a recent pilates class, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Secretary Grier Martin's Mission at the NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs May 23, 2024

NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs Secretary Grier Martin sits down with Skye and Brian for a conversation as we head into the Memorial Day weekend.

The Afghanistan War veteran recently returned to North Carolina after working at the Pentagon and now leads North Carolina's work advocating for the state's military installations, the active military serving, and veterans living in North Carolina. The former NC House member also talks candidly about the challenges the Department faces.

Plus, the bipartisan mask bill debate, controversial healthcare bill, budget talks stall, NC tourism now ranked #5, staffing news, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and whatever happened to Brian's friend Jake?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Danny Earl Britt, Jr.'s Unfiltered Take on Policy, Politics, & Politicians May 16, 2024

Sen. Danny Earl Britt, Jr. guest hosts the podcast this week with Skye and Brian as they tick through the latest policy, budget, and process developments inside the General Assembly.

The Robeson County Republican also gives a candid take on many 2024 candidates on both sides of aisle, including his swing Senate district.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Budget Surplus a Bust? The Return of Blust? And Talking Shop with Rep. Mark Brody May 09, 2024

The $400 million budget surplus predicted for this fiscal year ending on June 30 and the $1 billion surplus penciled in for next year isn't going to happen, at least not at those levels.

Skye and Brian also talk about an anti-semitism bill, a dense bill, new polling, voter ID lawsuit, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and more.

Plus a conversation with Rep. Mark Brody about his early life in Milwaukee, his move to NC, the construction industry, and his politics.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Political Reporter Bryan Anderson on Politics in the Newsroom May 02, 2024

Bryan Anderson is a freelance journalist who founded Anderson Alerts, a substack on all things #ncpol. The California native talks about his stints at the News & Observer, Sacremento Bee, WRAL, and The Assembly. While Bryan loves his work as a NC politics reporter, he has concerns about his profession and he opens up about them in this podcast.

Skye and Brian also unpack the second week of the short session, which began with tragedy in Charlotte, a pair of controversial bills, a technical corrections bill emerges, budget news, Race of the Week, #TOTW, protests at UNC, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

#NCPOL Operative Nathan Babcock: 'I Went from Missionary to Mercenary' Apr 25, 2024

Nathan Babcock plays two crucial roles in #ncpol. Half of his work is inside the General Assembly working as a policy advisor to Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger. During campaign season he's a Republican political consultant who takes lead on some of the most high profile, battleground districts.

Nathan talks about his two jobs, including some behind-the-scenes accounts of the abortion bill and Medicaid expansion, both enacted in 2023. He also takes listeners back to his first campaign in 2010, one of the most transformational times in #ncpol.

Skye and Brian also unpack the first day of short session, Governor's budget, new polling, ACC politics, #TOTW, and breaking down Taylor Swift's new albums.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Majority Leader John Bell & Sen. Jay Chaudhuri Preview Short Session Apr 18, 2024

There's a lot of unfinished issues for legislators to tackle in the General Assembly short session set to begin on April 24: Medical marijuana, gambling, social issues, opportunity scholarships, immigration, and more.

Then there's the rumors.

House Majority Leader John Bell and Senate Democratic Whip Jay Chaudhuri join Skye and Brian for a comprehensive preview of the short session ahead.

They also talk primary and general election politics, planned and unplanned legislator departures, length of session, #TOTW, and Mr. Beast.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Charles Smith Holds Court as College Hoopster, Lawyer, & Legislator Apr 11, 2024

Rep. Charles Smith was a three-sport athlete (basketball, baseball, and soccer) in high school. The power forward/centerfielder/sweeper would go on to play college basketball at Emory & Henry College before heading to UNC Law.

The newly minted lawyer would return to his native Fayetteville as a prosecutor and entered private practice. Along this journey, the freshman Democrat developed a friendship with the late Sen. Tony Rand, who introduced him to the world of North Carolina politics.

Skye and Brian also talk about former Rep. Jon Hardister's replacement, the race to keep that GOP seat, the rape kit announcement explained, a runoff in the 13th congressional district heats up, #TOTW, and Skye and Brian discuss their quirks.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

GOP Campaign Consultant Jim Burton's One Goal is to Win Apr 04, 2024

Campaign consultant Jim Burton works everyday to get Republicans elected up and down the ballot. Burton takes listeners behind the scenes of his 2022 work to get Sen. Bobby Hanig elected in a Democratic leaning district. Burton also talks about his craft, including how polling informs a political message, the targeting of voters, working directly with candidates, and what he's looking for in the 2024 election.

Democrats announce election targets, Rep. Jon Hardister resigns, former Rep. Grier Martin now a NC Cabinet Secretary, Senate maps approved, ballot signatures, Race of the Week, #TOTW, NC State basketball, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Mujtaba Mohammed Opens Up About His Muslim Faith, Ramadan, & Politics Mar 28, 2024

As Muslims around the world celebrate Ramadan, Sen. Mujtaba Mohammed talks about his faith and its linkage to Christianity and Judaism, the importance of fasting during this Islamic Holy Month, and how it informs his politics.

Skye and Brian also unpack the Rep. Michael Wray concession, Rep. Kevin Crutchfield still fighting, a new presidential poll in NC, sports wagering a good bet for NC, Gov. Cooper calls for a school voucher moratorium, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and the Sweet 16 this Easter weekend.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

A Heartfelt Conversation with Lobbyist Andy Ellen Mar 21, 2024

Veteran lobbyist Andy Ellen went for a morning run in the summer of 2023, returned home to catch up on news before heading to the General Assembly, and he collapsed. He had a heart attack.

The President/General Counsel of the NC Retail Merchants Association opens up about that day, his family's history with heart disease, and why he wants you to see a doctor today.

Skye and Brian also unpack a week of news, including a WRAL gambling poll, Rep. Michael Wray is running out of options, Sen. Thom Tillis running in 2026, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Brian Biggs' Big Ideas Mar 14, 2024

Rep. Brian Biggs is in his first term representing Randolph County, however his path to victory included a primary race in 2022 against a veteran GOP legislator.

The Freshman GOP Whip talks about his life, family and political career, including that intra-party race and his prior service on the Randolph County School Board.

Skye and Brian unpack the week's news, including Congressman-elect Addison McDowell, a pair of polls, John Locke Foundation's 2024 Civitas Partisan Index, Gov. Cooper's court win, Speaker outlines short session priorities, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Knives Out Primary Election Analysis with Sen. Jim Perry Mar 07, 2024

It was a North Carolina primary election for the ages, one that was incorrectly described in the days leading up to it as a "sleeper." Sen. Jim Perry (R-Lenoir/Craven/Beaufort) guest hosts the podcast with Skye and Brian as they try to make sense of a primary election that defied the political odds and protocols.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Special Primary Election Preview with Professors Michael Bitzer & Chris Cooper Feb 28, 2024

Primary Election Day is Tuesday, March 5, the day many races across North Carolina will be ultimately decided. However, some of the more crowded races are likely heading to runoffs.

Political science professors Michael Bitzer (Catawba College) and Chris Cooper (Western Carolina University) join Skye and Brian for the entire podcast to talk early voting trends, races to watch, political party realignment, purity tests, and what surprises could be in store on election night.

Dr. Bitzer and Dr. Cooper also discuss #TOTW and give listeners an update on the modern political science classroom in the age of smart phones, lap tops, and a world of information at their fingertips.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Kimberly Reynolds: Democrats' Maven Political Operative Feb 22, 2024

Kimberly Reynolds is a Democratic political consultant at Maven Strategies, a firm she founded with Maggie Barlow. Kimberly talks about her career dating back to 1999, including her past work for the NC Senate Caucus program and #ncpol campaigns she's managed.

Skye and Brian also share Republican polling from Capen Consulting, which includes the standings for the crowded race for Lt. Governor, Governor, and President.

Plus, campaign endorsements, conservative groups backing Democrats, update on a pair of lawsuits, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and have we unlocked a new level with the mysterious Hendersonville stingray pregnancy?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

The Political Mettle of Sen. Eddie Settle Feb 15, 2024

Sen. Eddie Settle is a no-nonsense, unpretentious, and accessible legislator whose style of legislating has won him admiration and respect from his colleagues, including Democrats. The Wilkes County native talks with Skye and Brian about his politics, life, family, work, and faith.

Plus, early voting is underway, a voter identification lawsuit scheduled, Governor Cooper's executive order, RNC Chair news, casino legislation in short session a bad bet, possible changes to election law, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Caleb Rudow on Trading a Safe House Seat to Run for Congress Feb 08, 2024

Rep. Caleb Rudow is currently sitting in one of the safest House seats in the General Assembly. The Asheville Democrat could sit back in 2024, put a few yard signs up, and coast to re-election victory. So why is he trading it in to challenge GOP freshman Congressman Chuck Edwards in the ruby-red leaning 11th District?

Skye and Brian also break down a pair of polls from Meredith University and High Point University, legislator death threat leads to arrest, Race of the Week, #TOTW, the Super Bowl, and Taylor Swift.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Dylan Watts: The Man Behind the Senate Caucus Curtain Feb 01, 2024

The Senate Republican Caucus is well known as a well-oiled, disciplined machine known for recruiting top-shelf candidates, methodically executing campaign plans, and winning majorities (sometimes supermajorities) since 2010.

Political operative Dylan Watts runs that machine and he sits down to talk about his life and work, which sometimes is a blur except when he's playing golf. The Cary native also discusses candidate recruiting, ideological diversity in districts, polling, and his thoughts about the 2024 election.

Skye and Brian also unpack a trio of legal issues, campaign fundraising, Race of the Week, #TOTW, and the problem with YMCA locker rooms.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sens. Warren Daniel & Julie Mayfield Live from Asheville! Jan 25, 2024

The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a live recording of the Do Politics Better Podcast in front of an audience of over 100 people on the campus of UNC Asheville on January 19.

Skye and Brian were joined by Senators Warren Daniel and Julie Mayfield to review the 2023 General Assembly session, issues they partnered on, and bills they were on opposite sides of.

The Senate duo representing Buncombe County also look to the upcoming short session and provide a scan of issues facing western NC and Asheville, including tourism, crime, and the region getting its fair share of the budget pie.

Plus, Tweet of the Week, Brian trying to kick a 40-year addiction, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Tim Kent: The Life & Stories of an Ultimate Political Insider Jan 18, 2024

Tim Kent, the executive director of the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, traces his North Carolina political roots back to 1981, the year he arrived in the state and started covering its politics as an on-air TV reporter.

Kent talks about covering the Hunt-Helms race in 1984, a bipartisan overthrow of a Democratic Speaker of the House in 1989, and how it led to his transition from journalism to be one of the most high profile and successful association leaders in North Carolina.

Skye and Brian also unpack a week of news, including court cases, a candidate challenge, POTUS visit, Race of the Week, #TOTW, college basketball, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Meet Kian Sadjadi, NC Democratic Party Executive Director Jan 11, 2024

The NC Democratic Party announced last fall it hired Kian Sadjadi as its new executive director. The 36-year old veteran political operative will lead Democrats in 2024 as they try to turn their Election Day fortunes around.

Skye and Brian also talk endorsement announcements, a fledgling redistricting lawsuit, Race of the Week, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Vickie Sawyer on Dealing with Social Media Trolls in the New Year Jan 04, 2024

Sen. Vickie Sawyer kicks off the first podcast episode of 2024, and the conversation centers around social media trolls and how to deal with them. The Iredell County Republican also reads some mean tweets she received from trolls when she announced on X she was running for re-election.

Skye and Brian also discuss how they let each other down in 2023 and their plans to improve in the New Year. Plus, the Tweet of the Year.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Sen. Thom Tillis: From Trailer Parks to NC Speaker to US Senator Dec 21, 2023

In this year-end podcast, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis sits down with Skye and Brian on Capitol Hill to talk about his early life growing up in trailer parks, his first foray into politics, the historic 2010 Republican takeover of the General Assembly, and his approach to representing NC in the U.S. Senate.

Also, Senator Jim Perry (R-Lenoir/Beaufort/Craven) stands in for Skye as guest co-host and runs through the news of the week, including an NAACP election maps lawsuit, the final slate of NC candidates for 2024, and his own blockbuster news that Sen. Perry is not running for re-election. Plus, #TOTW, holiday traditions, simpler times during the holidays.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Journalist Billy Ball Talks NC Politics, Culture, & Coping with Tragedy Dec 14, 2023

Billy Ball writes about North Carolina politics and culture as Senior Editor at Cardinal & Pine, a left-leaning, online newspaper. Whether Ball is covering water quality in rural North Carolina, school funding disparities, or writing about the sounds of the cicada during summer time, his writing is steeped in authenticity.

Billy talks about growing up in eastern North Carolina, his early love of journalism, and his approach to covering complex issues in a way readers can understand and relate to. He also talks about the tragic loss of his son earlier this year, the attacks he endured afterwards, and the challenges of the holidays.

Skye and Brian also unpack week 2 of candidate filing, a Trump endorsement, no GOP gubernatorial debates, a 2026 candidate for U.S. Senate, #TOTW, Christmas cards, and a trip to Capitol Hill.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. David Willis’ Journey from Eastern NC to China to the General Assembly Dec 07, 2023

Rep. David Willis was raised by a single mom in Wilson, NC and eventually made his way to Union County, where he became an early childhood education provider. In between, he had stops in Greensboro, Boone, New York City, and China, where he met his wife at a Christmas party.

The second term Republican talks to Skye and Brian about his life journey, the importance of his family, his decision to run for office, and his political future.

It's also the first week of campaign filing season and Congressman Patrick McHenry's surprise announcement on Tuesday created a ripple effect in many NC races, including campaigns for the General Assembly.

Plus, a legal challenge to the congressional maps, Super Bowl bets are off, an ECU political poll, a prayer for political retribution, #TOTW, a new word is approved for the Oxford Dictionary, and a #DoPoliticsBetter Holiday Cocktail Hour.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Maria Cervania: ’Here’s a Story I’ve Never Shared’ Nov 30, 2023

Rep. Maria Cervania is serving in her first term in the General Assembly after serving her Cary and Morrisville communities on the Wake County Board of Commissioners. The progressive Democrat talks about growing up in a Republican household with deep military ties and an inspiring and heart-wrenching immigration story from the Philippines.

Plus, Senate maps stand (for now), no congressional maps lawsuit (for now), no votes this week, a curious Senate poll in Rockingham County, more campaign announcements, an unsubstantiated rumor, #TOTW, and Skye and Brian share their list of lies told.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Dr. Michael Bitzer: ’2024 is Going to be Off the Charts’ Nov 16, 2023

Dr. Michael Bitzer is often quoted in the media on all things #ncpol in addition to contributing to political discussions with his engaging and informational social media posts. The political scientist at Catawba College sits down with Skye and Brian to talk about his career, scholarly work, the 2024 election, and his fascination with North Carolina's ever-changing political landscape.

Plus, more campaign announcements were announced this week, Auditor Beth Wood's resignation, Meredith College polling, Taylor and Travis, #TOTW, Thanksgiving, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Kelly Hastings on Overcoming a Learning Disability Nov 09, 2023

Rep. Kelly Hastings has served in the General Assembly since 2011, however his work in NC politics dates back to 1992 when Lt. Governor Jim Gardner ran for Governor against Jim Hunt. It's also when the Cleveland County Republican met a young campaign volunteer by the name of Tim Moore, and a friendship began.

The 7-term legislator opens up about his life, growing up with a learning disability, his military service, the toll of politics on family, and caring for aging parents.

Skye and Brian also tick through local elections across North Carolina and explore what the results in Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio mean for 2024 in the state. Plus, Auditor Beth Wood is indicted, Speaker Moore's congressional launch ad, a rumored shake-up in the Buncombe County delegation, #TOTW, and Skye is getting her conceal carry gun permit.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

2023 Long Session Wrap Up with Sen. Todd Johnson & Rep. Allison Dahle Nov 02, 2023

The General Assembly's 2023 long session is adjourned and Sen. Todd Johnson (R-Union) and Rep. Allison Dahle (D-Wake) sit down with Skye and Brian to break it all down, including Medicaid expansion, the party switch, abortion, medical marijuana, LGBTQ+ bills, casinos, budget, redistricting, and more.

The podcast also ticks through some campaign announcements, Council of State news, #TOTW, and Brian finds the Halloween candy.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Reps. Destin Hall, John Bell, Jason Saine, & Brenden Jones on the Speaker Deal Oct 26, 2023

A deal for NC House Speaker has been reached by Reps. Destin Hall, John Bell, Jason Saine, and Brenden Jones. The four Republican legislators talk to Skye and Brian about why an agreement was reached, the timing of the announcement, and details of what a House leadership team will look like in 2025.

The podcast also unpacks a week of political news: General Assembly adjournment, redistricting, campaign announcements, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Israel’s War Hits Home for Lobbyist Bruce Mildwurf Oct 19, 2023

Most of the world looked in horror as Hamas attacked Israel with brutal terrorism on October 7. When General Assembly lobbyist Bruce Mildwurf heard the news, he immediately thought of his daughter who is serving in the Israeli Army. One day later, Israel formally declared war against Hamas.

The NC School Boards Association lead lobbyist opens up about his daughter's decision to enlist in the Israeli Defense Forces after graduating from high school, how his family is processing the Israeli War, and he shares his own story of growing up Jewish and raising a family.

Skye and Brian also break down the redistricting maps, rumors, a gubernatorial campaign announced, #TOTW, a car mishap, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Jarrod Lowery’s Love of Home, Family, & Lumbee Heritage Oct 12, 2023

Rep. Jarrod Lowery loves Robeson County. It's where his Lumbee people have lived for thousands of years, it's where he grew up, and it's where he met his wife and is raising a family.

The freshman Republican talks about life in his home county and how he's been working for most of his life to improve it, honor and celebrate it, and now represent it in the General Assembly.

Skye and Brian also cover the veto overrides, a resolution supporting Israel gets political, redistricting votes scheduled, an adjournment announcement, campaign announcements, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Behind the Lines: Redistricting 101 with Dan Crawford Oct 05, 2023

Dan Crawford has been on all sides of redistricting. In 2001, he worked for a Democratic Senate Redistricting Committee Chair, who oversaw the gerrymandering of congressional and legislative districts that year.

Two decades later, Dan found himself on the U.S. Supreme Court steps holding a press conference about the lawsuit his organization was bringing against Speaker Tim Moore and the General Assembly's 2021 districts.

The political operative takes Skye and Brian behind the lines as they discuss the Redistricting Committee process, lawsuits, and his hope for improving the redistricting process in North Carolina.

Also, Speaker Tim Moore is not running for re-election to the House, Governor Cooper issues a veto, redistricting votes on Oct 9, #TOTW, and Brian is riding his bike across North Carolina this week.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Professor Chris Cooper: #NCPOL Class Is In Session Sep 28, 2023

Dr. Chris Cooper is a regular contributor to #ncpol. His commentary and political insights can be found on X (Twitter) and in NC and national media outlets.

The Madison Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Western Carolina University visited Raleigh to talk about his easy-to-understand public engagement, and his teaching and scholarly work. Dr. Cooper also gives insightful political analysis, historical perspective, and shares his magic wand wish for NC politics.

Skye and Brian also cover the announced Medicaid expansion rollout, redistricting, a Democrat spat, a pair of polls, an unsubstantiated rumor, #TOTW, and a candy debate.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Casinos Fold & Budget Rolls: In the Room with Rep Allen Chesser Sep 21, 2023

Rep. Allen Chesser was in the room on Tuesday afternoon when the news came down that casino legislation in the state budget was dead, including the one planned for his Nash County district.

The freshman Republican takes us behind the scenes of this epic political drama, his work over the last nine months to bring casinos to his district, and why he thinks the issue is far from dead.

Skye and Brian also talk about two election bills pending, the 'Reg-Reform' bill, U.S. Senator Lauch Faircloth dies, #TOTW, sticking it to lobbyists, and an awkward situation with Sen. Paul Lowe.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Senate Doubles Down on Casinos, House Plays Against the Odds Sep 14, 2023

It was an epic week at the General Assembly as casino politics took center stage and threw a state budget vote off track this week. In this special edition of the podcast, Skye and Brian give a rundown of what happened (and what's likely to happen)from their vantage point just outside the Senate GOP Caucus room.

They also discuss Mark Harris' re-entry into NC politics, Josh Stein gets a Democratic challenger in Mike Morgan, a new GOP gubernatorial poll, and the three GOP contenders for governor debate. Plus, a consensus #TOTW at a time when few can agree on much.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

NC’s Capitol Hill Reporter Danielle Battaglia: ‘You Don’t Want Me Digging’ Sep 07, 2023

Danielle Battaglia is the NC Congressional Correspondent for the News & Observer and Charlotte Observer and covers North Carolina's 16 members of Congress and reports on NC news from the White House.

Danielle's reporting career started in Rockingham County in 2011, the year Sen. Phil Berger ascended to the President Pro Tem position. She talks about her journalism career, falling in love with political reporting, and how she transitioned to covering state politics full-time. She also opens up about her challenges with POTS and managing the disease with such a physically demanding job.

Skye and Brian also talk about about the odds on casinos, its effect on the budget, an alcohol bill on the move, a delayed election bill, #TOTW, and Skye's birthday.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Ken Fontenot: A New Look for the Grand Old Party Aug 31, 2023

Rep. Ken Fontenot is known for his fiery floor speeches, dramatic committee presentations, and his constant reminder to his legislative colleagues that he was elected to bring resources and change to his majority Black district in Wilson.

The first term Black Republican talks about his dynamic legislative and political style, his life and careers, and his decision to run for office in an area of the state with strong Democratic Party ties.

Skye and Brian also discuss the UNC tragedy, Rep. Marvin Lucas recovering, a NC Supreme Court justice files a lawsuit, Hurricane Idalia, two more congressional candidates emerge, DGA ad, Governor Cooper endorses, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, and the NC Healthcare Association.

Rep. Cecil Brockman’s Balancing Act as a Swing Vote Aug 24, 2023

Rep. Cecil Brockman is one of a handful of Democrats who is considered a swing vote in the General Assembly. The 5-term legislator talks about how he balances getting needed resources for his High Point district in the budget while holding to his values as a self-described progressive.

Rep. Brockman also talks about his transition from serving as a legislative assistant to serving as a Representative, his evolving views on school choice, and his enduring friendship with Rep. Tricia Cotham.

Skye and Brian also unpack the week of news including Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of the election bill, a Democratic legislator complains to Wake DA about Speaker Moore, GOP Lt. Governor’s race gets another candidate, Freedom Park opens, NC Supreme Court Justice to step down, new polling from John Locke Foundation, an Unsubstantiated Rumor circulating, #TOTW, and the politics of college football.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Intern to Influence: Sen. Brad Overcash’s Story Aug 17, 2023

Sen. Brad Overcash started his political journey as Congressional page for the late Rep. Howard Coble before interning in the NC Senate. He would later go on to serve as an officer in the NC Republican Party.

In 2022, Senate Majority Leader Kathy Harrington announced her retirement and the the Gaston County attorney stepped in to succeed her. Sen. Overcash talks about his first term in the Senate as well as the admiration from his colleagues because of his perfectly coiffed hair, height, and speaking style.

Skye and Brian also cover a news filled week at the General Assembly, including six veto overrides, a controversial elections bill, a new House Republican Whip elected, a new political party approved for 2024, Dan Bishop's AG fundraising, #TOTW, Tomato Sandwich Day, and Brian makes a friend.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Ya Liu’s Journey from Immigrant to NC Legislator Aug 10, 2023

Rep. Ya Liu immigrated to the United States from China two decades ago to pursue higher education and better opportunities. She had little money, spoke very little English, but went on to earn two doctoral degrees, started a thriving law practice, and is raising three children with her husband in Cary, which she now represents in the House.

The western Wake County Democrat talks about her decision to run for office, her work in the Asian American community, and how she works across the aisle to get policy enacted.

Skye and Brian also unpack the week in #ncpol, including budget and casino news, more 2024 announcements and rumors, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

The Adventurous Life & Career of Reporter Rose Hoban Aug 03, 2023

If you work on health care policy at the General Assembly, whether as a legislator or lobbyist, there's a good chance you've spoken to health care reporter Rose Hoban, the founder of NC Health News.

However, you probably didn't know she started her career in architecture, and lived and worked in Micronesia, where she was inspired to pursue a career in health care. Rose talks about her adventurous "origin story", including her decision to become a journalist and how it led her to North Carolina in 2005.

Plus, Skye and Brian cover the budget progress made by the House and Senate leadership, casinos update, campaign finance reports released, a big endorsement, Dan Bishop is in for AG, #NCGA schedule next week, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Jeff Zenger on Surviving Childhood & Thriving Today Jul 27, 2023

Rep. Jeff Zenger is by all accounts a success: A beautiful family, a thriving business, and a productive political career. However, life wasn't always so charmed for the two-term legislator.

The Forsyth County Republican talks about a troubled childhood in the outskirts of Baltimore, a toxic family dynamic, and how he continues to take his childhood experience to the General Assembly.

Skye and Brian also talk about the politics of casinos, another veto, Speaker's race news, Medicaid movement, GOP Lt. Governor's race, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

The Hurt of Rep. Allison Dahle Jul 20, 2023

Rep. Allison Dahle is at the top, or near the top, of everyone's list of favorite legislators. That goes for Republicans, Democrats, staff, and lobbyists. And the Raleigh Democrat has worked hard to cultivate meaningful relations with everyone, including the most conservative legislators in the General Assembly.

However, a recent debate in the House left Rep. Dahle in tears as she pleaded for legislators to choose her over partisanship. She talks about the vote, the strain it put on legislative friendships, and how she plans to move on.

Skye and Brian also cover Speaker Tim Moore's announcement, the legislative schedule, new candidates emerge, tornado hits the state, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Allen Chesser: Combat Veteran, Cop, & Policy Problem Solver Jul 13, 2023

Rep. Allen Chesser was not likely to earn the high school superlative of "Most Likely to Serve in the General Assembly". It was also unlikely he would go on to marry his wife Jessica, who he met in high school, but was far from ever catching her fancy at the time.

However, the Nash County Republican has lived a life of overachievement, and it started with a conversation with a high school guidance counselor, was fortified by the attack on September 11, 2001, and forged into steel as a U.S. combat soldier in Iraq.

The freshman legislator talks about his incredible life, the tragedy he and his family has endured, and his desire to make life better for North Carolinians by solving problems.

Skye and Brian also welcome a special guest host to the podcast this week as they discuss North Carolina's repeat as CNBC's Top State for Business in 2023, the budget impasse, Stein v Robinson fundraising, Sen. Mike Woodard's mayoral bid, medicinal marijuana up in smoke, vetoes, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

The Atonement of Rep. Jeff McNeely Jun 29, 2023

Rep. Jeff McNeely asked Rep. Abe Jones a question with racial overtones during a heated House floor debate in May that landed both legislators in national and state news stories. While the Iredell County Republican immediately apologized and Rep. Jones accepted, Rep. McNeely continues to feel regret for hurting his friend and others.

Rep. McNeely opens up about what he was trying to convey that day, the consequences of his actions, and his views about race, poverty, and access to education. He also talks about his life growing up in Iredell County, his fondness for colorful suits and bowties, and his political journey.

Skye and Brian also discuss the Moore v Harper SCOTUS decision, a rare Monday night Senate session, abortion law clarifications, veto overrides, two more LGBTQ+ bills advance to Governor Cooper, former Rep. Dewey Hill dies, 2024 campaign news, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Sen. Paul Lowe: ’My Style of Politics is Relational’ Jun 22, 2023

Sen. Paul Lowe has served in the Senate since 2015. However, his political work and public service started in the fall of 1991 when he was named as pastor at Shiloh Baptist Church. Sen. Lowe reflects on his abiding faith and political beliefs and the intersection of both in policymaking.

The Winston-Salem Democrat talks about how important relationships with his Republican colleagues produce better outcomes in legislation and gets him the room where it happens.

Skye and Brian discuss the lawsuit that rocked the #ncpol world on Sunday night, the Governor's latest vetoes overridden in the Senate, controversial bills continuing to move, session timeline update, legislator's reaction to abortion lawsuit, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Treasurer Dale Folwell is Running for NC Governor Jun 15, 2023

NC State Treasurer Dale Folwell is known as a fix-what's-broken political leader going back to his days serving in local government in Winston-Salem, his tenure in the General Assembly, and recent service in the executive branch.

Folwell is now focused on the Governor's Mansion in 2024, but he's in a three-person GOP primary with a herculean front-runner known for his fiery speeches and record breaking fundraising. Can a proven problem solver win the Republican nomination? Folwell says he's done it before and will do it again.

Skye and Brian also talk about Governor Cooper's proposed UNC System governance changes as Senate leaders move a pair controversial of election bills, transgender sports bill nearing final votes, the budget (and maybe adjournment) is delayed, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Abe Jones’ Story of Grace & Forgiveness Jun 08, 2023

Rep. Abe Jones is a man of many accomplishments: student leader in high school, a standout runner, double Harvard graduate, attorney, and Superior Court judge.

That's why a question from a House colleague a couple weeks back questioning his achievements was so hurtful. But, it was not the first time the Wake County Democrat, who is black, has been asked such a question.

Skye and Brian also discuss part two of Governor Cooper's bully pulpit campaign, a party switch elections bill, the Farm Act and sports wagering bills pass, budget update, more Dan Bishop rumors, a pair of big decisions at the NC GOP Convention this weekend, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Catching Up, Clearing the Air with Sens. Benton Sawrey & Mary Wills Bode Jun 01, 2023

Senators Benton Sawrey and Mary Wills Bode were guests on the podcast in the weeks following the 2022 election. They return to the podcast this week to talk about their freshman terms, the ups and downs, and their perspectives on crossover week when they were on opposing sides of the abortion debate.

Skye and Brian also cover Sen. Bill Rabon's committee testimony about his cancer journey and use of medical marijuana, sports gambling's winning hand, Governor's ad buy, budget update, tragedy in NC politics, a new GOP candidate for Lt. Governor, rumors, #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Inside Lucille Sherman’s Reporter’s Notebook May 25, 2023

Axios Raleigh reporter Lucille Sherman has broken some blockbuster stories that in many ways have defined the 2023 legislative session: Auditor Beth Wood’s car accident, Rep. Tricia Cotham’s party switch, and the Medicaid expansion deal.

Lucille talks about her career as a journalist, her path to North Carolina, and her approach to covering North Carolina politics.

Skye and Brian also discuss Governor Cooper’s State of Emergency speech, pair of House Republicans resign leadership positions, sports wagering moves in the Senate, medical marijuana scheduled for House committee, and John Locke Foundation’s gubernatorial head-to-head poll.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Jennifer Balkcom on the Importance of Family & Farming May 18, 2023

Rep. Jennifer Balkcom is an 8th generation Henderson County native whose life was shaped by family, farming, and profound loss.

The freshman Republican legislator talks about the heartbreak she experienced as child, helping her family make ends meet to keep their family farm, finding love, and her journey to the General Assembly, where she has been on the forefront of the leadership's legislative priorities this session.

Skye and Brian also talk about the abortion bill veto override, the Senate budget, tension in the House and the apology that followed, sports wagering in the Senate, more statewide candidates, #TOTW, nostalgia, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Cory Bryson’s Inspiring Journey from Growing Up Poor to Senior Advisor to the Speaker May 11, 2023

Cory Bryson is a Senior Policy Advisor to the Speaker Tim Moore. However, the Gaston County native wasn't always so fortunate. Cory was raised by his maternal grandparents, grew up eating food from a local church pantry, and struggling in school.

In this heartfelt conversation, Cory takes listeners through his incredible life, including his enlistment in the U.S. Marines, how a decision to volunteer at the Gaston County Republican Party elevated him to one of the highest offices in North Carolina politics, and how met his wife Britt.

Skye and Brian also talk about the aftermath of the abortion bill, 2024 governor's race polling and updates, the Growler, #TOTW, brunch, and the Coronation.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Crossover Week Upstaged by a 12-Week Abortion Bill May 05, 2023

This week was supposed to be about the crossover deadline on May 4, the day policy bills had to pass either the House or Senate in order to be eligible for consideration by the General Assembly in the biennium. However, a 12-week abortion bill was rolled out late Tuesday night and legislators took to their partisan battle stations.

Skye and Brian also talk about the three major NC Supreme Court decisions announced last Friday, a divisive obscenity bill isn't so divisive after all, #TOTW, Paul Coble punishes protestors by denying them couches, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Jeffrey Elmore: Classroom Teacher, Artist, & Big Budget Chair Apr 27, 2023

Rep. Jeffrey Elmore is the go-to legislator in the House, maybe even in the General Assembly, on all things K-12 related. That's because he's spent 23 years as an active teacher in Wilkes County, a job he still holds.

The 6-term Republican talks to Skye and Brian about how he balances his career with his service in the General Assembly where he has risen to the 'Big Chair' ranks of House budget writers. They also talk education policy, his art, family, and how teaching keeps him grounded in the needs of public education.

It's also the week before the crossover deadline, a controversial education bill is on the move, the internal politics of Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson's gubernatorial announcement, Congressman Dan Bishop running for Attorney General (?), #TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Sen. Rachel Hunt on Growing Up in NC Politics & in the Governor’s Mansion Apr 20, 2023

The Hunt name still carries weight in North Carolina politics two decades after Governor Jim Hunt left office. Sen. Rachel Hunt, the daughter of the "Education Governor," started her political career in 2018 when she successfully defeated a powerful House incumbent and four years later she now serves in the Senate. Now the Democrat from Mecklenburg County is eyeing the Lieutenant Governor position, a seat her father held from 1973-77.

Sen. Hunt talks about her decision to run for office, growing up in the Executive Mansion, working on the family farm in the summers, and how she seems to be following a similar political path of her father.

Skye and Brian also unpack a busy week in the General Assembly, including a controversial women's sports bill, House GOP caucus finds consensus on abortion, executive versus legislative branch legislation, budget update, more statewide candidates, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Dennis Riddell’s One-Time Road to Perdition is Now Paved by Redemption Apr 13, 2023

Rep. Dennis Riddell is known in the General Assembly as legislator for his effectiveness, persistence, and his Christian faith. However, the Alamance County Republican was on a far different path before he was brought to his knees at age 21 and was transformed forever. Rep. Riddell also talks about how he met his wife Polly, a family tragedy they endured, and his career as a social studies teacher, a merchant marine, and as a state legislator.

Skye and Brian also unpack a relatively quiet spring break week in North Carolina politics, including the continuing Rep. Tricia Cotham news, a lawsuit filed, a high profile political endorsement, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

GOP Supermajorities are Official! And a Conversation with Rep Caleb Rudow Apr 06, 2023

Rep. Caleb Rudow is a former lead singer in a David Bowie cover band, a trilingual Peace Corp volunteer in Africa, and he’s as energetic and optimistic as a legislator can be. The second term Asheville Democrat talks about his life and work, his efforts to get to know his legislative colleagues and their districts, and how he hopes it results in bipartisan policy partnerships.

Skye and Brian also break down all aspects of Rep. Tricia Cotham’s announcement this week that she left the Democratic Party and joined the House Republican Caucus, which gives them a 72-member supermajority. All the while a House budget is forwarded to the Senate, #TOTW, a new #ncpol rumor, and the General Assembly breaks for Easter.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Tim Reeder, an ER Doctor Who Makes (NCGA) House Calls on Policy Mar 30, 2023

Rep. Tim Reeder is one of two medical doctors serving in the NC House (the other is Rep. Kristin Baker). The Greenville Republican talks about his career in emergency medicine, teaching at ECU, his work at a homeless shelter and the connection to public policy, and his decision to get into the hottest House legislative race in 2022.

Skye and Brian also break down an epic week at the General Assembly as Medicaid expansion is signed into law by Governor Cooper, the sports wagering gets over a major hurdle in the House, and a veto override gets House members on edge.

Plus, a House budget is unveiled, an announcement for governor, #TOTW, participation trophies, and more in #ncpol.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Billy Lassiter: Growing Up As Albino, Bullied, & Now a Fierce Advocate for Juvenile Justice Mar 23, 2023

Billy Lassiter is the Deputy Secretary for Juvenile Justice at the Department of Public Safety. If you've seen Billy at the General Assembly advocating for more resources and better policies, he stands out. That's because he has albinism, which means he has white hair, pale skin and his vision isn't very good.

Billy talks about growing up as albino and a bullying incident in middle school that changed his life forever. Billy also talks about his work on behalf of children in the juvenile justice system and his requests (on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper) for the children he is treating, educating, and returning to North Carolina communities.

Skye and Brian also unpack an epic week in NC politics, including the final passage of Medicaid expansion, sports wagering, two new announcements for Governor, an internship rap battle, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

NC Supreme Court Justice Phil Berger, Jr.’s Life, Career, and Growing Up Berger Mar 16, 2023

NC Supreme Court Justice Phil Berger, Jr. is the son of NC's most powerful politician, Senator Phil Berger. He talks about his father's sacrifice to make a better life for his family, his own political career, and how sports continues to play an integral part of his life, work, and community service.

Listeners also learn about his inter-party friendships on the court, his future in North Carolina politics, and how he would improve the criminal justice system.

Skye and Brian also talk sports wagering, Medicaid expansion, a pair of opioid bills advance, tension in the House, the Governor's budget, a House member declares for statewide office in 2024, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Ed Goodwin: Farmer, Gun Carrying Federal Agent, & NC Legislator Mar 09, 2023

Rep. Ed Goodwin is part northeastern NC farmer and part James Bond. He's protected Presidents of the United States, fought crime in cities, been in hostile foreign lands, and held victims of sexual assault.

The Chowan County Republican talks to Skye and Brian about his incredible life, his career, and what led him to run for political office, including the General Assembly.

Plus they cover Governor Roy Cooper's last State of the State Address and the GOP response from Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, Medicaid expansion bill moves in the Senate, legislative leaders announce budget cap, two controversial bills goes to Governor Cooper's desk, Tweet of the Week, NC Supreme Court news, staffing news, NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler eyeing a run for NC governor, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Medicaid Expansion Deal! And Sen. Lisa Grafstein’s First Floor Speech was Personal Mar 02, 2023

Usually, a legislator's first floor speech is something easy. Maybe it's a point-of-personal-privilege after the business of the Senate has concluded or they rise in support of an innocuous bill. However, Sen. Lisa Graftstein's first floor speech was personal as she talked about her childhood and coming to terms with her sexuality.

The Wake County Democrat talks about her first speech as well as her life, legal career, and how she is attempting to build relationships across the political aisle to advocate for her community and the issues important to her.

Skye and Brian also unpack the Medicaid expansion compromise, medical marijuana passing the Senate, a House abortion bill push stalls, a declared and not-yet-declared candidates for statewide office, #TOTW, kickball, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Labor Commish Josh Dobson Exits in 2024: ’My Brand Don’t Fit the Times’ Feb 23, 2023

NC Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson announced in December 2022 he was not running for re-election to the post in 2024 nor would he seek any other elected office.

In this exclusive interview, Commissioner Dobson talks to Skye and Brian on how he came to this heartfelt decision and why he is at peace with it. He also talks about his plans for the next two years, the work he would like to do in the next phase of his career, and how he feels about the TikToks about him that are circulating.

Plus, the State of the State address scheduled as House shifts into a higher budget gear, bills (marijuana, guns, immigration, and school calendar) moving through the General Assembly, a parliamentary procedure explained, TOTW, and Brian transitions from belts to suspenders.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

100th Episode! And Sen Julie Mayfield, a Member of the Get (Stuff) Done Club Feb 16, 2023

Sen. Julie Mayfield began her political career on the Asheville City Council in 2015 and five years later was elected to the General Assembly as a Democrat. The environmental attorney talks about her transition from local to state government and how she works to get work done for her district by partnering with Republicans.

While Sen. Mayfield enjoys working with all of her colleagues from both sides of the aisle, she opens up about a confrontation recorded on video in 2021 that included her and the current Lieutenant Governor.

In this 100th episode of the podcast, Skye and Brian also unpack a week of news, including the NC Democratic Party upset, guns, Medicaid expansion, marijuana, House Rules, positive economic forecast, lots of rumors, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Ben Moss, a Blue Collar Railroad Worker and Republican Red Feb 09, 2023

Rep. Ben Moss spent over 20 years working on the railroad and knows about hard (and dangerous) work. So while running for county commission in Democratic controlled Richmond County was a tall order, he knew that his blue collar work ethic and persistence would eventually win him a seat in 2010 after two unsuccessful attempts. A decade later he would win a seat in the NC House.

Skye and Brian talk to Rep. Moss about his life, his politics, and his pride in being a card carrying union member, a fact that often turns heads in Republican circles. He also talks about his plans to run statewide in 2024 for Labor Commissioner.

Plus, it was a packed week in NC politics, including a NC Supreme Court ruling, Parents Bill of Rights, a pair of possible NC Constitutional amendments, the death of Sen. Jerry Tillman, the Speaker's riot bill, a pair of substantiated rumors, Medicaid expansion, Tweet-of-the-Week, Attorney General Josh Stein's reprieve, an unfortunate Twitter fight, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, and the NC Pork Council.

Rep. Garland Pierce: ’Some Issues I’m Willing to Vote with the Party in Power’ Feb 02, 2023

Rep. Garland Pierce is one of the longest serving members in the General Assembly. As a Democrat who was first elected in 2005, he knows what it's like to serve in the majority and he knows the challenges of serving the minority since 2011.

The Scotland and Hoke County legislator talks to Skye and Brian about his politically changing district and how he is positioning himself to get work done in the 2023 session.

Plus, the Parents Bill of Rights bill moves in the Senate, all Democrats sign on to an abortion rights bill, Sen. Berger endorses a NC Constitutional change, Unsubstantiated Rumors, TOTW, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

A Car Crash Case Study in Crisis Communications Jan 27, 2023

The hit-and-run charges against NC Auditor Beth Wood has become a daily news story for the last two weeks. Much of the talk in NC political circles is how the actions and communications surrounding the incident could have been handled better.

Skye and Brian have a conversation with veteran communications professional Seth Palmer, who has advised elected and appointed officials across North Carolina, as well as trade associations, businesses, and nonprofits.

Plus, the General Assembly asks the NC Supreme Court to revisit a redistricting and voter ID case, two polls are released, another House Democrat gets a gavel, contentious bills filed, Tweet-of-the-Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The Eternal Optimism of Sen. Bobby Hanig, a Lifelong Underdog Jan 20, 2023

Sen. Bobby Hanig fights for the underdog, because he is one. Whether it's growing up in poverty in the projects of Philadelphia, fighting county government on a regulation impeding his business, challenging a House incumbent, or just recently, winning a Democratic leaning Senate district.

The Outer Banks Republican opens up to Brian about his life, small business, and his impressive political career. He also talks about his love of surfing, a pastime he's hoping to resume now that campaign season is over.

Also, the House announces committee assignments with bipartisan chairs, Attorney General Josh Stein kicks off his 2024 gubernatorial campaign, time runs out for TikTok on state devices, Auditor Beth Wood charged with hit-and-run, Dr. Michael Bitzer's 2024 Candidate List, Tweet-of-the-Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Opening Day of Session! And a Conversation with the ACLU of NC’s Ann Webb Jan 13, 2023

The NC General Assembly opened its 2023-2024 biennium on Wednesday with a day of celebration, optimism, and bipartisanship (for the most part). This podcast covers the ceremonial day, including a new rule in the House that will allow for easier veto overrides in that chamber, the news that an abortion bill is being negotiated between the House and Senate, and a list of unfinished business from 2021-22 likely to get action this session.

Skye and Brian also talk to ACLU of NC Senior Policy Counsel Ann Webb about her positive approach to the General Assembly on offensive and defensive issues.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

John Locke’s Donald Bryson is Ready for the 2023 General Assembly Jan 06, 2023

One might assume the conservative John Locke Foundation gets everything it asks for from a Republican General Assembly. Well, the think-tank gets a lot, but the organization has differences over big legislative issues, including Medicaid expansion.

JLF President/Chief Strategy Officer Donald Bryson talks with Skye and Brian about Locke's approach to the General Assembly, his life and career, and how JLF prepares for the 2023 General Assembly session.

Skye has a few questions for Brian about the opening ceremonial session on January 11, including the tumultuous 2003 session that required days of roll call votes and back-room deals to produce Co-Speakers of the House.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Wrapping Up 2022 with Senators Danny Britt & Mike Woodard Dec 23, 2022

Republican Senator Danny Britt and Democratic Senator Mike Woodard look back at the year in North Carolina politics, including their top stories and surprises of 2022. They also look ahead to the 2023 General Assembly session and share their views on the 2024 elections. Sen. Britt also gives his take on the race for attorney general.

Skye and Brian also unpack the latest NC Supreme Court rulings, a 2024 gubernatorial poll, and Governor Cooper has a new lobbying team. Plus, Unsubstantiated Rumors, Tweet-of-the-Week, New Year's Resolutions, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Senator-elect Mary Wills Bode: ’I Really Want to Put in the Work’ Dec 16, 2022

Senator-elect Mary Wills Bode was elected to the NC Senate on November 8 after a grueling race that was watched closely by NC political observers. The Granville County Democrat (who also represents part of Wake County) sits down with Skye and Brian to talk about her high profile election, her goals in the General Assembly as a freshman senator serving in the minority, and her life path to elected office.

The podcast also unpacks the Sine Die session that wasn't, Republican leadership previews the 2023 legislative session, Hurricane Matthew Oversight turns into a storm, a NC Labor Commissioner candidate steps up, Tweet-of-the-Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

WUNC Capitol Reporter Jeff Tiberii: ’This is Your State Government’ Dec 09, 2022

Jeff Tiberii is the Capitol Bureau Chief covering the General Assembly and he hosts WUNC's biweekly Politics Podcast, roles he continues through the end of 2022. In the New Year, he'll co-host a daily radio show on WUNC that will focus on North Carolina news, politics and culture.

Before he makes this transition, Jeff sat down with Skye and Brian to talk about his life, family, career, love of sports, and North Carolina politics. He also waves a magic wand and makes an improvement for all who work in the General Assembly.

Plus, we discuss the power grid attack in Moore County, Moore v Harper, 2022 election turnout data, more legislative leadership announcements, Commissioner Josh Dobson's announcement, Unsubstantiated Rumors, Tweet of the Week, Skye's "icks", and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Live from Asheville! Western NC Politics with Professor Chris Cooper Dec 02, 2022

The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a live recording of the Do Politics Better Podcast in front of an audience of over 120 people on November 30. Skye and Brian were joined by Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper.

The discussion was focused on western North Carolina politics, including Buncombe County's delegation turnover, the region's need for bipartisanship in a partisan environment, and the continuing drama in the state's 11th Congressional District.

In addition to a recap of North Carolina political news and the Tweet of the Week, Dr. Cooper waves a magic wand that could fix our politics.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Great Expectations with Senator-elect Benton Sawrey Nov 18, 2022

Senator-elect Benton Sawrey was elected to the NC Senate on November 8. The Johnston County Republican sits down with Skye and Brian to talk about his election, his goals in the General Assembly as a freshman senator, and his path to elected office.

The podcast also dives into the longterm challenges facing the Republican and Democratic parties and the resignation of LT McCrimmon as Governor Roy Cooper's liaison to the General Assembly.

We also feature a Tweet of the Week, the podcast visits Asheville, and Thanksgiving plans.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Mid-Term Election Results & a ’Working Supermajority’ with Sen. Kirk deViere Nov 11, 2022

Sen. Kirk deViere joins Skye and Brian for this special edition of the podcast to unpack the mid-term elections in North Carolina, including the races for U.S. Senate, Congress, the Courts, and the NC General Assembly.

The Democrat from Fayetteville, who was ousted in a Democratic primary this past spring for his moderate voting record, also talks about the need for both political parties to welcome middle-of-the-road legislators in their ranks.

Plus, Skye and Brian spent Election Day in Robeson County with Sen. Danny Earl Britt, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Board of Elections Chair Damon Circosta Stoked About Voting, Surfing, & North Carolina Nov 04, 2022

State Board of Elections Chair Damon Circosta talks about his early career in election reform advocacy, including a stint working for the late Sen. John McCain, and his work now to ensure North Carolina elections are secure and accessible.

The Arizona native also talks about how the state's diverse politics and coastal surfing vibe were determining factors in his family's decision to locate to North Carolina.

In this 2022 mid-term election edition of the podcast, Skye and Brian discuss a Meredith College Poll, make predictions for the U.S. Senate race and General Assembly supermajorities, Tweet of the Week, and a tribute to the late Sen. Stan Bingham.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Speaking to Speaker Moore’s Communications Director Demi Dowdy Oct 28, 2022

Demi Dowdy is the Communications Director for House Speaker Tim Moore, a job that often has her in the room where it happens and working with journalists in the NC Capitol Press Corps to get the story told to the public.

The first generation Cuban-American also talks about her career advocating for conservative causes, including her work for the Civitas Institute (now merged with the John Locke Foundation), and her hopes and aspirations for the Republican Party.

Skye and Brian unpack a pair of polls showing Ted Budd edging out Cheri Beasley in the U.S. Senate race while the congressional race between Wiley Nickel and Bo Hines seems to be knotted. They also tick through swing NC Senate and NC House races, including an odd rumor circulating this week about the Bobby Hanig-Valerie Jordan race.

Plus, Unsubstantiated Rumors, Tweet of the Week, celebrity endorsements, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Your Phone, TV & Computer Are Tracking & Selling Your Info to NC Political Operatives Oct 21, 2022

NC political operatives have access to a voter file that indexes every voter on a scale from 0-100. Your Facebook likes, Instagram shares, iTunes purchases, grocery store purchases, and more, constantly update your file and informs political candidates and PACs on what kind of messages will get you to the polls.

Dan Crawford leads the political work for the NC League of Conservation Voters and he sits down with Skye and Brian to explain how the voter index works. Dan is married to Democratic Sen. Sarah Crawford, who sat in on the podcast interview. It's an informative and fun discussion that delves into their family life and a 2014 attack ad aimed at the political couple.

Also, early voting begins in North Carolina, campaign finance reports filed, tragedy hits Raleigh, a Moore v Harper court update, and Governor Cooper and Senator Berger duke it out in a national magazine article.

Plus, Tweet of the Week, a Do Politics Better visit to the NC State Fair, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

’Oppo-Research’, the Underworld of NC Politics Oct 14, 2022

Opposition (or "oppo") research is the most secretive and underground facet of North Carolina politics, but it's the foundation of most successful political campaigns. NC-based GOP political operative Darren Eustance at Malleus Political Strategies talks about his misunderstood, required, and often maligned industry.

Skye and Brian also break down the Beasley/Budd U.S. Senate debate, discuss crime as an emerging campaign issue in political races, Unsubstantiated Rumors, Tweet of the Week, the NC State Fair, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Nathan Babcock & Morgan Jackson Break Down NC General Assembly Races Oct 07, 2022

Nathan Babcock is a political consultant for Republican state Senate candidates and part of Morgan Jackson's job is to direct Governor Roy Cooper's political investments in key General Assembly races.

Both veteran political operatives are guests on the podcast this week and help Skye and Brian understand the state of play in key NC House and Senate races one month from Election Day.

As to legislative races, it's heating up in swing districts as a lawsuit is filed in a New Hanover County Senate race, court cases are moving, Unsubstantiated Rumors, and Tweet of the Week.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Wayne Goodwin’s Life of Learning, Love, & Loss Sep 30, 2022

Wayne Goodwin grew up poor and with a father with debilitating mental health challenges. These two experiences shaped the Hamlet native and his politics.

In 1996, Wayne was 28-years old when he was elected to represent Richmond County in the NC House, a seat he held for 8 years before running for statewide office.

Wayne's life has been marked by incredible success and heart-wrenching loss, including the 2020 death of his beloved wife and political partner Melanie. Wayne shares their love story and memorializes her service as a legislator who succeeded him in the General Assembly in 2005.

Skye and Brian also break down the latest John Locke Foundation/Civitas poll, talk about the Wilmington Trump/Budd rally, GOP/Dem messaging in swing legislative districts, the politics of Hurricane Ian, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Jim Burgin on the Power of Politics, Policy, & Prayer Sep 23, 2022

Sen. Jim Burgin is a leader in the General Assembly on health care and mental health policy. The Harnett County Republican talks about his passion for the issue, especially mental health, as well as his friendship and partnership with NC Health & Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley, a Democrat, in making the state healthier.

A press gaggle this week at the General Assembly included news from Sen. Phil Berger about a possible December lame-duck session, the latest on Medicaid, and more.

Skye and Brian also talk about an abortion ad cut by Governor Cooper for a Senate candidate that may be seen in other districts, a House Democratic leader is in a tough race, the General Assembly's top fundraisers, and Treasurer Dale Folwell floats his name for governor in 2024.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The Assembly’s Kyle Villemain on ”Creating that ’Assembly’ for the State” Sep 16, 2022

Kyle Villemain founded The Assembly, a digital magazine about North Carolina and its complex politics, in 2021. Skye and Brian sits down with Kyle to talk about the online magazine, his life and career, and his vision for a publication that is digging deeper in our politics at a time when much of journalism is contracting.

Skye and Brian also talk about the week in politics, including an October 7 US Senate debate between Ted Budd and Cheri Beasley, negative ads, unsubstantiated rumors, Tweet(s) of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Judge Jefferson Griffin: From Fisherman to NC’s Highest Court? Sep 09, 2022

Judge Jefferson Griffin has served on the NC State Court of Appeals since 2021. The Nash County native talks about his service in the state's court system, his active military career, and his work after college as a charter fisherman.

Judge Griffin, a Republican, also announces his intentions in the 2024 election.

Skye and Brian also kickoff the post Labor Day election season with new polling, attack ads launched, unsubstantiated prefers, the final NCSBE decision on Hanig v Jordan, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. John Autry’s Life, Travels, Careers, & Politics Sep 02, 2022

Just about everyone knows about the infamous "bathroom bill" of 2016, however many don't know that Rep. John Autry was then a Charlotte City Councilman who successfully pushed for the city's non-discrimination ordinance that prompted HB2 that year.

The Mecklenburg County Democrat talks about why pushing for the ordinance was so important to him. He also takes listeners on a life journey that began in Fayetteville and took him across the country through multiple military posts, careers, and experiences.

Skye and Brian also discuss the effect SCOTUS's Dobb's decision is having on political messaging in North Carolina, the latest on the Leandro lawsuit, an expected decision on a NC Senate candidate's residency status, 2024 rumors, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Steve Jarvis: Builder, Foster Care Champion, & Nice Guy Aug 26, 2022

Sen. Steve Jarvis is a builder by trade and is recognized as a legislative leader on homebuilding and construction issues. However, he is also just as passionate about improving foster care and the adoption process in North Carolina.

The Davidson County Republican talks about his life and family, a nearly tragic construction accident that still negatively affects him today, and he explains how a nice guy can succeed in North Carolina politics.

Skye and Brian unpack a full week of news, including a confounding NC Supreme Court decision, Attorney General Josh Stein strikes back, Lt. Governor Mark Robinson pens a book, GOP leaders disagree on abortion policy, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Cross-Party Friendship & Learning at the NC Institute of Political Leadership Aug 19, 2022

Sen. Amy Galey is an Alamance County Republican and Leonardo Williams is a Durham City Council Democrat. However, the two found friendship and leadership growth from the NC Institute of Political Leadership.

They are joined by NC IOPL Executive Director Brad Young to talk about the political training program, its preparation for candidates for elected office, and why it's designed to throw all political philosophies into one cohort to produce NC's future political leaders. Applications for the fall NC IOPL cohort are open until August 24.

Plus, Skye and Brian are reunited after two weeks of staggered vacations and they cover the latest in NC polling, a complaint about where a senatorial candidate lives, the latest on the state's abortion law, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Lobbyist Brian Lewis: ’Doing Politics the Way I Want to Do It’ Aug 12, 2022

Sen. Jim Perry returns as the podcast interview host for a second week to talk with lobbyist Brian Lewis about his transient mobile home life in eastern North Carolina, his start in NC politics in 1994, and how a lobbying mistake in 2011 led him down a path to #DoPoliticsBetter.

House Majority Leader John Bell also returns to the podcast as Skye David's guest co-host this week. They cover the latest from the Attorney General Josh Stein criminal investigation, Medicaid expansion talks, and the 2022 mid-term elections. They also talk a little Tiger King, Joe Exotic, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Turning the Microphone Around: Sen. Jim Perry Interviews Skye David Aug 05, 2022

Lobbyist and podcast co-host Skye David is interviewed by Sen. Jim Perry, and she talks about her life, education, career, and work in North Carolina as a lobbyist.

And while Skye is on vacation, Sen. Mike Woodard steps into the co-host role of the podcast with Brian and breaks down this week's news, including the latest on Medicaid expansion, Kansas and abortion politics, the Green Party's recognition, and the rise of unaffiliated voters in the state.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Newspaper Reporter Turned TV Journalist Travis Fain Jul 29, 2022

WRAL State Government Reporter Travis Fain covers the General Assembly. The Georgia native talks about his career in journalism and his thoughts on the state of journalism and North Carolina politics.

Skye and Brian also talk about the criminal investigation into Attorney General Josh Stein's 2020 campaign, the General Assembly asks the courts to implement a 20-week abortion ban, and a redistricting case is slated for a NC Supreme Court hearing this fall.

Plus, Brian's inspiration found in Tim McGraw, Skye is going on vacation, and this podcast is a hit in Azerbaijan.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Brent Woodcox & Donald Bryson Settle a Twitter Dust-Up Jul 22, 2022

Brent Woodcox is Senior Policy Counsel to Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and Donald Bryson is President of the John Locke Foundation. Both are conservatives, active in North Carolina politics, and open to share their political opinions.

The two got tangled in a Twitter discussion about a General Assembly line-item in the closing days of session that got the attention of many.

Brent and Donald discuss their Twitter "dust-up", the General Assembly budget process, the role of think tanks, and the perils of social media debates.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack the week in North Carolina politics, including an upcoming skeleton session, rumors, election finance reports, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

House Chief of Staff Neal Inman is in the Room Where It Happens Jul 15, 2022

Neal Inman, age 32, started his political career as an intern in 2012 for Rep. Julia Howard. A decade later he is the Chief of Staff to House Speaker Tim Moore.

The Wilmington, NC native walks listeners through his career path, his day-to-day work, and talks about his 2 1/2 day stint working for Governor Roy Cooper.

Former President George W. Bush also stops by at the end of the podcast and shares his thoughts about Inman, who he refers to as "Boy Wonder".

The podcast also unpacks a full week in NC politics, including a busy Monday for bill signings and vetoes, NC's top ranking for business, a check-in on the US Senate race, a Senate resignation, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Late Night with Sen. Sarah Crawford: From David Letterman to the General Assembly Jul 08, 2022

Before Senator Sarah Crawford arrived in the General Assembly in 2020, she was already a star. She was a guest on Late Night with David Letterman in 1989 as she helped showcase a new dog sport called Fly Ball.

The freshman Democrat also talks about her early life, her work for Congressman David Price, and how a kickball game (and Fly Ball) introduced her to her husband Dan.

Skye and Brian also run down the very last day of session, how the adjournment resolution has the General Assembly returning monthly, and a gubernatorial executive order on abortion.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The Last Days (and Hours) of the Short Session Jul 01, 2022

The last days of the 2022 NC legislative short session, including bills moving, dying, and legislative maneuvering, from the viewpoint of lobbyists Skye David and Brian Lewis.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. DeAndrea Salvador: ’I Can Be a Little Puzzling to Folks’ Jun 24, 2022

Before arriving in the General Assembly in 2021, Sen. DeAndrea Salvador was already a star. The TED Talk fellow's 2018 TED Talk on energy policy has over 1.5 million views.

The Mecklenburg County Democrat talks (13:37) about her life's journey, including being born to a teenage mother and having a father who was incarcerated when she was young.

Skye and Brian also cover a wild week at the General Assembly, including a dramatic loss for sports gambling, medical marijuana goes up in smoke, Medicaid expansion in the House, budget talks, a US Supreme Court decision, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Jim Perry on Life Without a Father & Life as a Father Jun 17, 2022

Sen. Jim Perry has a beautiful family, is a successful businessman, and is a powerful state senator. However, his childhood is a different story.

On this Father's Day edition of the podcast, the Lenoir County Republican opens up about growing up without a father, in economic hardship, and how both motivated him to want more in life.

Sen. Perry also talks about rumors circulating about him in the General Assembly, gives insight into what drives him, and explains how his challenging childhood shapes his conservative politics today.

Skye and Brian also wrap up another busy week at the General Assembly, including a budget update, an announcement by Speaker Moore about a controversial bill, a staffing announcement, and so much more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Retiring Rep. Grier Martin: ’It’s Time To Go’ Jun 10, 2022

Rep. Grier Martin announced last week he was resigning his legislative seat in July to take a job at the Pentagon. The Raleigh Democrat, who is a Afghanistan War veteran, talks about his life, reflects on his service in the General Assembly since 2005, and makes a bold announcement about his future in North Carolina politics.

Skye and Brian also talk about another busy week at the General Assembly, including the latest on the budget, a fun idea on future lobby days, seersucker suit season, and lessons learned from a 'gut and replace' legislative maneuver.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Warren Daniel on Western NC, West Point, & West Jones Street Jun 03, 2022

Sen. Warren Daniel was one of the young guns in the General Assembly in 2011. His freshman class of Republicans had just ushered in GOP control of the Senate, a chamber controlled by Democrats for over a century.

The Burke County Republican talks about his legislative work over the last decade as well as his childhood in western North Carolina, his decision to attend the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and even talks about what his political future may, or may not, hold.

Skye and Brian also talk about two hemp bills moving in the General Assembly, an expansive Medicaid expansion bill, a controversial Parents Bill of Rights bill on the move, a House resignation, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Health & Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley’s NC Homecoming May 27, 2022

Kody Kinsley serves as Secretary of the NC Department of Health and Human Services, a position that puts the 36-year old in the middle of North Carolina politics' most high profile policy debates between Governor Roy Cooper and the General Assembly.

Secretary Kinsley talks about his job, his public service to the Obama and Trump administrations, and his life, which began in Wilmington, NC.

Skye and Brian also talk about a week full of action in the General Assembly, including a divisive bill with possible election consequences, a Medicaid expansion bill in the Senate, a fast-track budget process, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

House GOP Caucus Director Stephen B. Wiley Wraps Up Primary Night May 20, 2022

Stephen B. Wiley knows what it takes to win legislative races. As the NC House Republican Caucus Director, he's the campaign manager for 120 House races in the general election.

Stephen shares his take on a surprising primary election night and what it portends for NC legislative candidates in the fall.

Skye and Brian also talk about the start of the legislative short session, recount a blown tire incident on Tuesday driving through Harnett County, Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Short Session Preview with Rep. John Bell & Sen. Jay Chaudhuri May 13, 2022

The General Assembly short session begins Wednesday, May 18 and House Majority Leader John Bell and Senate Democratic Whip Jay Chaudhuri preview what we can expect to be accomplished and not accomplished in the next two months by lawmakers.

Skye and Brian also talk about the optimistic revenue forecast, a budget proposal by Governor Roy Cooper, what General Assembly races they are watching on Tuesday night, and The Growler returns on May 24.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Mother’s Day is Doubly Special for Rep. Jimmy Dixon May 06, 2022

Rep. Jimmy Dixon's mother was unmarried in 1944 when she was living and working in Wilmington, NC. She was also pregnant. In 1945, Rep. Dixon was born and an arrangement was made for him to live and grow up with his "Granny" in Friendship, NC. While his mother would visit him frequently, Rep. Dixon has never known who his father is.

This is an endearing Mother's Day story of a powerful legislator whose start in life was unlike many of those he grew up with in the middle of the 20th century in Duplin County. It's also a story of love, sacrifice, and the power of family, no matter what it looks like.

Plus, Skye and Brian unpack the week in North Carolina politics, including the latest from Madison Cawthorn, a Meredith University poll, and the General Assembly session this week that was not.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The Life & Humor of Joe Stewart Apr 29, 2022

Joe Stewart is a fixture in NC politics who is parts lobbyist, politico, historian, and stand-up-comic. The 35-year political veteran, who wears suspenders and bowties sans coat, talks about his life, his many jobs in politics and policy, and how lobbying is a lot like bowling.

Skye and Brian also discuss the latest debacle from Congressman Madison Cawthorn, a Leandro update, and a debrief on Skye's camping trip to McDowell County last weekend.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Lisa Stone Barnes Talks Faith, Family, & Farming Apr 22, 2022

If you eat sweet potatoes, there's a good chance that the delicious bounty came from the Nash County farm of Sen. Lisa Stone Barnes and her husband Johnny.

The two-term legislator (one term in both the House and Senate) sat down with Skye and Brian to talk about her love of agriculture, her extensive family, politics, and her work in her community inspired by her Christian faith.

Plus, we are inside a month before the primary election and the opening day of the short session. Skye and Brian update listeners on the latest from the US Senate race, the race to replace Congressman David Price gets ugly, another presidential-run mention for Governor Cooper, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

LT McCrimmon, the Governor’s Lobbyist in the General Assembly Apr 15, 2022

L.T. (La'Tanta) McCrimmon has one of the most challenging jobs in North Carolina politics: She serves as the Legislative Director for Governor Roy Cooper at the General Assembly.

L.T. talks about her life growing up in rural Scotland County, the influence of her mother and great-grandmother, her political work for Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, and how she goes about her work as the chief lobbyist for a Democratic governor who doesn't always see eye-to-eye with a Republican-controlled General Assembly.

Skye and Brian also celebrate the Halifax Resolves, unpack a new WRAL issue/candidate poll, and former President Donald Trump visits Johnston County.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Superintendent Catherine Truitt, from the Classroom to NC’s Top Education Leader Apr 08, 2022

Superintendent Catherine Truitt taught ten years in the classroom before rising to the highest position in education governance in North Carolina. The veteran English teacher talks of her career journey as well as her personal and professional challenges leading education policy in North Carolina.

Skye and Brian also report on US Senate poll numbers, an upcoming visit to NC by President Donald Trump, and we answer the question, “what do lobbyists do out of session?”

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The History Making Political Career of Sen. Dan Blue Apr 01, 2022

Senate Democratic Leader Dan Blue was arguably the most powerful political leader in North Carolina from 1991 to 1994 when he served as NC Speaker of the House, the first black leader of either chamber in the General Assembly.

The Wake County attorney talks about growing up on a farm in Robeson County, his college years as a math major, his decision to pursue a law degree, and how his storied political career began.

Skye and Brian also rundown another news filled week, including Congressman Madison Cawthorn's latest blunder, a car manufacturing company selects North Carolina, a legislative committee meeting featuring nurses versus doctors, and Skye has big personal news to share.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Michael Lee on Life, Loss, & Legislating Mar 25, 2022

Sen. Michael Lee is a powerful Senate Education Committee Chair, a committee he leads with determination and humility. The New Hanover County Republican talks about his early life in Dunn, NC, his four election losses, and what his son's health challenges have taught him about the education system in North Carolina.

Skye explains what's going on with the voter ID and Leandro cases before the NC Supreme Court and Brian talks about Lt. Governor Mark Robinson’s latest controversy, its timing, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, a Trailblazer in NC Politics Mar 18, 2022

Secretary of State Elaine Marshall talks about growing up on a farm, how 4-H changed her life, her decision to go to law school, and run for the NC Senate. The Harnett County Democrat also talks about her successful 1996 race against racing champion Richard Petty, which made her the first woman elected statewide in North Carolina.

Skye and Brian also talk about former Governor John Kasich's virtual visit to a Medicaid expansion committee, review the John Locke Foundation's Civitas Partisan Index, and discuss why unaffiliated voters are now the largest voting bloc in the state. And, of course, they run down the #DoPoliticsBetter #NCGA Bracket Challenge.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Brent Jackson: Farmer, Budget Writer, & Maybe Future Ag Commissioner Mar 11, 2022

Senate Appropriations Chair Brent Jackson (R-Duplin/Johnston/Sampson) talks about growing up in Sampson County, farming watermelons, his decision to run for the Senate in a Democratic leaning district in 2010, and what he thinks about the rumors that he is running for NC Agriculture Commissioner in the future.

Skye and Brian also unpack the news from this week, including an intra-party Senate showdown in Cumberland County, a veto override vote, the General Assembly adjourns until spring, Congressman Madison Cawthorn news,and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Catching Up, Looking Back with Former Rep. Rick Glazier Mar 04, 2022

Former Rep. Rick Glazier was once one of the most powerful legislators in the General Assembly. The Fayetteville Democrat, who now leads the NC Justice Center, made a point to include Republicans on his legislation, including a bill he considers his most important work: the creation of the NC Innocence Inquiry Commission, which continues to make news today.

Rick recounts his partnership on that bill with former Rep. Paul (Skip) Stam, a conservative stalwart, and how they worked past their differences to find common ground, and even friendship.

Skye and Brian run down a few notable House and Senate primary races, talk about a complicated veto override vote next week, and celebrate the podcast's one-year anniversary by sharing an early (and comical) draft of the show's format.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Ashton Clemmons, from the School House to the NC House Feb 25, 2022

Rep. Ashton Wheeler Clemmons is a bridge-builder at the General Assembly. The Greensboro Democrat is often in the negotiating room on some of the state's most high profile education debates, works in partnership with her Republican colleagues on meaningful legislation, and is energized about getting more bipartisan work done in the future.

Skye and Brian break down the final election maps approved by the state courts on Wednesday night and the decisions a few candidates are facing in the aftermath. Brian also recalls a scary surfing session from a couple weeks ago that may have included a shark.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

John Hood is the Conservative Movement’s Renaissance Man in NC Feb 18, 2022

John Hood is an early pioneer in North Carolina’s conservative movement. He helped found found three major conservative institutions — the John Locke Foundation, Carolina Journal, and the Civitas Institute — at a time when NC's politics was dominated by Democrats.

John takes us back to 1989 when he was fresh out of UNC and Art Pope had an idea on building a conservative infrastructure in NC. We also learn about John's life growing up in Mecklenburg County, his love of books and tap-dancing, and how in 2012 a media firestorm put him on the opposite side of many conservatives in the state.

Skye and Brian also update listeners on legislative map-drawing 2.0, give insightful analysis on deals and no-deals on maps, and recount a past intern at New Frame and a practical joke played on him.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Turning the Microphones Around on News Anchor Tim Boyum Feb 11, 2022

Veteran NC political reporter/anchor/podcaster Tim Boyum spends his days (and nights) covering state politics and interviewing political leaders for Spectrum News.

In this podcast, Tim is the interview subject and reveals how he goes about gathering news everyday, how he balances work and family, and gives his thoughts on the state of journalism and state politics.

Skye and Brian also unpack the NC Supreme Court's redistricting decision and lays out the General Assembly's timeline in the coming days, gubernatorial campaign fundraising numbers, General Assembly Bingo, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Deanna Ballard, from the White House to the NC Senate Feb 04, 2022

Sen. Deanna Ballard started her political career working for President George W. Bush. By the age of 30, she had an office in the East Wing of the White House, was advising the President and the First Lady on important policy matters, and traveling the world on Air Force One.

In 2009, the Watauga County Republican returned to North Carolina to work for Samaritan's Purse, and in 2016 she became a North Carolina Senator and now co-chairs the powerful Senate Education Committee.

Brian and Skye break down the redistricting hearing in front of the NC Supreme Court this past week, a new legislator is seated, another gubernatorial rumor, and the latest news about Congressman Madison Cawthorn.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Marcia Morey: Olympic Swimmer, Judge, & Legislator Jan 28, 2022

Rep. Marcia Morey was ranked #2 in the world in 1976 in swimming (breaststroke), the year she represented the USA in the Montreal Olympics. However, systematic doping by the East German swim team denied the future state legislator the opportunity to win an Olympic medal.

The Durham Democrat opens up about how the scandal negatively affected her in the aftermath and how it continues to guide her policy work in North Carolina.

Brian and Skye also talk about a low-key week at the General Assembly, an independent expenditure ad campaign aimed at the NC Supreme Court, and rumors (and rumors of rumors) in North Carolina politics.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Senate Policy Advisor André Béliveau on Finding a Home, a ’Log Cabin’, Inside the GOP Jan 21, 2022

André Béliveau is Senate Policy Advisor to Senator Paul Newton, one of the most powerful legislators in the General Assembly. In this role, André is involved in some of the most high profile conservative legislation moving in state politics, including a landmark energy bill enacted last session.

While André is decidedly conservative, earlier in his formative years he wasn't always convinced he had a home in the Republican Party. André talks about his political journey and how he found a home in the GOP. He also discusses his work inside the General Assembly and his leadership outside of the building in the Log Cabin Republicans of NC.

Brian and Skye also break down the one vote this week in the General Assembly, discuss the importance of legislative oversight committees, and there's talk of snow in Raleigh.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

The Centrist Politics of Rep. Gale Adcock: ’My Job is to Find Common Ground’ Jan 14, 2022

Rep. Gale Adcock has served in the NC House since 2015, but she was no stranger to the General Assembly when she took office. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, she walked the legislative halls for decades advocating for the NC nursing profession.

The centrist Democrat from Cary talks about her early life in southwestern Virginia, how she put herself through college and graduate school, her work as the Chief Health Officer at SAS Institute, and her centrist politics that puts her in the middle of many high profile debates.

Brian and Skye also discuss the Superior Court decision on the redistricting case and what it could mean, an American Idol jumps in a NC congressional race, a U.S. Senate poll, a new legislator is coming to Raleigh, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Amy Scott Galey, a Republican with Democratic Family Ties Jan 07, 2022

Sen. Amy Scott Galey is a Republican from Alamance County, the home-place of the storied Scott Family, the very family that produced two North Carolina Governors, an Agriculture Commissioner, and a President Pro Tem of the Senate. However, they were are all Democrats.

Sen. Galey talks about her upbringing, her decision to register as a Republican, and her impressive political career as a county commissioner and state senator. She even talks about Tomato Sandwich Day at the General Assembly, and how she continued the tradition this past legislative session.

Brian and Skye also unpack the week in North Carolina politics, including the redistricting court hearing, Medicaid expansion news, retirements and staff transitions announced, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Special Holiday Edition: Wrapping Up 2021 with Senators Jim Perry & Kirk deViere Dec 24, 2021

Republican Senator Jim Perry and Democratic Senator Kirk deViere look back at the 2021 General Assembly session, including budget maneuvers, behind-the-scenes bipartisanship, the art of compromise, and insight on how trust is built with legislators when political and policy disagreements surface.

Sen. Perry and Sen. deViere also talk candidly about how the very long legislative session took a toll on their family lives, careers, and waistline.

In this special holiday episode, Brian and Skye are joined by their New Frame colleague Christy Jones as they look back at 2021, look ahead to 2022, and share their family holiday traditions.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

New Frame and the Do Politics Better podcast wishes all of our listeners a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for making this podcast such a success in 2021. The podcast returns on January 7, 2022.

Behind the Scenes with Senate Policy Advisor Brent Woodcox Dec 17, 2021

Brent Woodcox is Senior Policy Counsel to Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, a position in which he helps the Senate majority enact conservative policies for North Carolina. However, Brent's ideas on growing a conservative movement are at odds with some in his Republican Party.

Brent sits down with Brian and Skye to talk about his work in the Senate, his proclivity to tweet, his brand of optimistic conservatism, and his openness to run for political office in the future.

Plus, a Democrat drops out of the 2022 US Senate race and is reportedly eyeing a run for NC Attorney General, rumors of a Governor Roy Cooper POTUS run, and are we headed for an impeachment trial in the General Assembly after the holidays?

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Auditor Beth Wood, from Dental Hygienist to CPA to the Taxpayers‘ Watchdog Dec 10, 2021

Auditor Beth Wood is unlike any modern day politician in North Carolina. She's soft-spoken yet very direct, a CPA with vast knowledge of arcane accounting regulations but just as comfortable talking about priming tobacco, and a proud Democrat who will take on anyone at any level of government, including members of her own party.

The Craven County native chats with Brian and Skye about her humble childhood working and living on a farm, her early career as a dental hygienist, and the decision she made at age 29 to go to college to be a CPA.

The 4-term State Auditor also talks about a troubling audit in Rocky Mount, her advocacy for legislation to prevent future improprieties by municipal leaders, and a recent confrontation in a House committee with a Democratic legislator.

Plus, the start-stop-start-stop of campaign filing this week that eventually delayed the March primaries to May, more retirement announcements, and Brian and Skye get stranded in Akron, Ohio on Wednesday.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. John Bradford: Energy, Optimism, & Effectiveness Dec 03, 2021

Rep. John Bradford is all energy, all optimism, all the time. It's how he runs two businesses he founded , prioritizes time with his family, chairs the powerful House Finance Committee, and sponsors an impressive number of successful bills each session to help small businesses in North Carolina as well as the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community.

However, the Mecklenburg County Republican has faced adversity. He discusses the hurt of his 2018 re-election loss and an alarming health care challenge his family faced that same year.

Brian and Skye also discuss the unique end of the 2021 legislative session, including a combative House Rules committee, more political shake-ups, a confrontation outside the Senate chamber recorded on video, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Special Holiday Edition: Stephen Kent & How the Force Can Fix the World (& Our Politics) Nov 26, 2021

Author, podcaster, and media pro Stephen Kent sits down with Brian to talk about his newly released book, How the Force Can Fix the World. In these divisive times, the North Carolina native (who now lives outside of Washington, DC) uses Star Wars as a framework for how we can improve civility, understanding, and our political discourse.

Stephen also discusses his connection to North Carolina politics, the role religion and spirituality plays in his life, and his evolving conservative political philosophy.

Brian and Skye also explain the implementation of a state budget, list more political moves in the aftermath of redistricting, and have fun talking about Thanksgiving weekend plans, Hallmark Christmas movies, and gratitude this holiday season.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

We Have a State Budget! Plus a Conversation with Rep. Matthew Winslow Nov 19, 2021

Rep. Matthew Winslow wasn't just raised by a teenage mom, he grew up with her, and they even attended college together. The freshman Republican also talks about the importance of his faith and how it's led his family, career, politics, and how he sees those who do not share his values.

Brian and Skye also celebrate a state budget and review the ongoing shakeup in NC's congressional delegation and General Assembly as moves are made in the aftermath of redistricting. Brian also shares his thoughts on a former state senator who is looking at the race for Governor in 2024 and a current state senator who might be considering a run for Attorney General.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Here Comes the Judge: A Conversation with Rep. Joe John Nov 12, 2021

Rep. Joe John is a rare legislator with high level experience in all three branches of government. Before his election to the NC House in 2016, Rep. John presided over court rooms as a judge, including service on the NC Court of Appeals from 1992-2000. The Wake County Democrat also worked as the director of the NC State Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab.

Brian and Skye also review a non-voting week that was full of political drama, including plans for a final budget vote next week, Congressman Madison Cawhthorn's plans to run in a new congressional district many thought was for Speaker Tim Moore, the ongoing Leandro lawsuit, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Michael Lazzara‘s Life in Politics & Love of Pizza Nov 05, 2021

Sen. Michael Lazzara talks about his career in politics, his early life in Sicily and Chicago, and how enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps led him to Camp Lejeune and a life in North Carolina.

The freshman Republican also discusses his love of pizza and how it led to his creation of successful pizzerias in coastal communities in North Carolina. Sen. Lazzara also explains how pizza could fix what's ailing divisive politics today.

Brian and Skye also unpack an action-packed week, including a veto, a protest in the House, Virginia's election results effect on NC politics, sports betting, redistricting, and a budget finale tentatively scheduled for the week of Nov. 15.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep Ricky Hurtado‘s Message to Both Political Parties Oct 29, 2021

Rep. Ricky Hurtado talks about his family’s immigration story from El Salvador, growing up in Sanford, and the journey to Alamance County, where he won a NC House seat in 2020.

The freshman Democrat also talks about the national and state notoriety he attracted on the campaign trail, and he even reveals his winning “playbook”. However, Rep. Hurtado wants more than just winning an election. He wants to be a bridge-builder, both in his community and across the political aisle in the General Assembly.

Brian and Skye also share their optimism about a final budget agreement between Governor Roy Cooper and the General Assembly, they discuss the one bill that was to be voted on this past week and why it was pulled off the calendar, and explain what happens when the Governor does’t appoint a party-selected legislator to a seat.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Tim Moffitt is Back in the General Assembly & Busier Than Ever Oct 22, 2021

Rep. Tim Moffitt returned to the General Assembly in 2020 after losing a tough re-election campaign in 2014. The Henderson County Republican talks about his six years out of the legislature, lessons learned, and how it gave him a different perspective on leadership.

Rep. Moffitt also discusses chairing the House Alcohol Beverage Control Committee at a challenging time for the state's liquor distribution system.

Brian and Skye also update listeners on budget talks, report on a bill limiting the Governor's emergency powers, rundown the list of legislators vying to replace a retiring congressman, recap a fun kickball game played at the General Assembly, and much more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Billy Richardson on Dyslexia, Dealmaking, & His Democratic Party Oct 15, 2021

Rep. Billy Richardson is an accomplished lawyer and legislator, but he was unlikely to be either until he confided in his high school English teacher that he could not read. The Fayetteville Democrat discusses how a teacher and a novel she gave him changed his life forever.

Rep. Richardson also talks about his legislative service in 1992-96 and 2015-present, including his pragmatic political philosophy that makes him one of the most effective and courted Democrats in a Republican General Assembly.

Brian and Skye unpack a volatile week in North Carolina politics after a controversial video featuring Lt. Governor Mark Robinson surfaces, Governor Cooper signs the energy bill, budget talks continue, the NC State Fair begins, the Tweet of the Week, and a second #DoPoliticsBetter Kickball game is announced.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Jimmy Dixon, the General Assembly Agriculture Ambassador Oct 08, 2021

Rep. Jimmy Dixon was raised by his grandmother on a farm before he went on to play football at Wake Forest on a scholarship and returned to Duplin County to build a farm that processed over 700,000 turkeys a year.

The Duplin County Republican talks of why he got into politics and why he is on a mission to educate his legislative colleagues on where their food comes from.

Brian and Skye also report on the ups and downs of final budget negotiations between General Assembly leaders and Governor Roy Cooper, review of a red-hot political ad, a possible gubernatorial candidacy by a NC congressman, a bipartisan energy bill that is sitting on Governor Cooper's desk, and the death of Rep. Dana Bumbardner.

There's also a recap of the inaugural Do Politics Better Kickball game played on October 5 outside the General Assembly.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Sen. Sydney Batch on Legislating Effectively from the Back Row Oct 01, 2021

Sen. Sydney Batch knows that if she's going to positively affect legislation in the Senate she's got to work across the aisle and through back channels. The Wake County Democrat also compares her one term in the NC House with her current term in the NC Senate.

Brian and Skye also discuss the House and Senate budget agreement and negotiations with Governor Roy Cooper, a predicted veto of an executive power bill, a contentious legislative hearing about liquor, a courageous Tweet of the Week, and the announcement of the Do Politics Better kickball game scheduled for the coming week.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Brenden Jones, a Hard-Charger or ‘the Easiest Teddy Bear in the Building‘? Sep 24, 2021

Rep. Brenden Jones is as plain-spoken and to-the-point as legislators come at the General Assembly. But, beneath the Columbus/Robeson County Republican's strong personality is someone with a deep and abiding faith, a love of family, and a servant's heart for a legislative district that relies on him to get the job done in Raleigh.

The Deputy Majority Leader also discusses his "odd couple" friendship with House Rules Chairman Destin Hall, how his mother's cancer diagnosis when he was in high school required he take on adult responsibilities, and how he wants to see our political discourse improve.

Brian and Skye also review the week, including a court decision on a voter identification law, a Senate memorial service for former Sen. Marc Basnight, driverless car legislation, another retirement announcement, the Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.

Rep. Terry Brown on the Importance of Quality Committee Work Sep 17, 2021

While Rep. Terry Brown is a freshman legislator, he's a throwback in many ways as he is known for his preparation and readiness to improve legislation in committees. The Mecklenburg County Democrat talks about why he believes spending more time and focus on marking-up legislation before a floor vote makes for better policy outcomes and bipartisanship.

Rep. Brown also talks about being raised in Fayetteville by his two public school teacher parents, his political start at UNC Charlotte, and the importance of carving out time in his business law practice to represent domestic violence survivors in court.

Brian and Skye also unpack the legislative week, including a revised budget timeline, two vetos, a bill limiting the Attorney General's powers, a House discharge petition, a retirement announcement, the arrival of Do Politics Better merch', and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Rep. Erin Paré, Former Federal Lobbyist Turned State Legislator Sep 10, 2021

If Rep. Erin Paré makes legislating at the General Assembly look easy it may have something to do with the fact she spent seven years on Capitol Hill as a federal lobbyist.

The freshman Wake County Republican also talks about her stint as a Washington (Redskins) cheerleader, how it led to meeting her military husband in Iraq, and how she now manages to juggle family, running a small business, and her work as an effective state legislator.

Brian and Skye also unpack a week at the General Assembly that looks to be winding down, an emergency powers bill, a liquor bill, a budget update, a contempt-of-court threat by a judge, a Sen. Danny Britt sighting, the Tweet-of-the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Rep. Brian Farkas: ‘Be Kind and Be Respectful‘ Sep 03, 2021

Rep. Brian Farkas is a moderate Democrat who thrives in a coin-toss Pitt County district that gives him the freedom to work across the political aisle. The freshman legislator also talks about being one of the younger members in the General Assembly.

This week's podcast also welcomes guest-host Dylan Reel, counsel to House Rules Chairman Destin Hall, who is standing in for Brian Lewis as he takes his daughter to college.

Skye David and Dylan unpack a two-veto week at the General Assembly that includes gun legislation and a hotel bill, which mysteriously caught the disapproval of Governor Roy Cooper. Other topics covered: the riot bill, a primer on what a concurrence vote is, the responsibilities of committee conferrees, critical race theory, a budget update, and redistricting.

And if that's not enough, legislative staffer Carl Gilmore (of Skye’s kickball team) makes a cameo appearance.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Rep. Chris Humphrey, a Republican Winning in a Democratic District Aug 27, 2021

Rep. Chris Humphrey is a Republican who knows how to win in a Democratic district, something he's been doing since he was elected as a La Grange town councilman and county commissioner in Lenoir County.

The self-described moderate talks of how a Democratic activist convinced him to join the Republican Party in 1990. The former UNC classmate of Speaker Tim Moore also reveals what a failed 2010 primary loss to a now prominent NC state senator taught him about politics.

Brian and Skye also unpack another full week at the General Assembly, including a tense Senate committee meeting debate on critical race theory, budget negotiations, the child marriage bill, anti-riot legislation, high school athletics, the Tweet of the Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Sen. Don Davis on Legislating from the Center: 'I'm Getting it from the Left, I'm Getting it from the Right' Aug 20, 2021

Senator Don Davis is known for working across the political aisle at the General Assembly which, as he explains, is not easy in these polarizing times.

The eastern North Carolina Democrat also shares his story of being raised by his grandmother as his teenage mother defied the odds by continuing her education and was eventually reunited with her son. A young Don Davis would go on to enter the Air Force Academy and later launch a successful political career at age 29.

Brian and Skye also break down a General Assembly week that includes criminal justice reform legislation, medicinal marijuana, sports wagering, a budget status update, redistricting, the Tweet of the Week, and so much more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Sen. Paul Newton: 'I Am Here to Solve Problems' Aug 13, 2021

Sen. Paul Newton likes to say "good policy makes for good politics". Learn more about the Republican Senate Finance Chair, his career at Duke Energy, and his life now as a "gentleman farmer" who runs a wedding venue with his wife (and dogs) in Cabarrus County.

Brian and Skye also review a rollercoaster House budget week, what's next in the budget process, and share the latest on the riot bill, the child marriage bill, a gun bill, election redistricting, the Tweet of the Week and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Rep. Zack Hawkins: 'If You Get to Know Me, You'll Like Me' Aug 06, 2021

Rep. Zack Hawkins, in his second term at the General Assembly, has already contributed to the passage of two major bills addressing elections and autism. Learn how the Durham Democrat learned the importance of House rules, seeks opportunities to work across the political aisle, and finds inspiration from his two younger sons who are living with autism.

Brian and Skye also talk about the House budget, a Senate bill that legalizes sports gambling, the ongoing politics of COVID-19, and somber news that hit the Senate and House this week.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Rep. Jamie Boles Puts the 'Fun' in Funeral & Legislating Jul 30, 2021

House Justice & Public Safety Appropriations Chair Jamie Boles, who has represented Moore County since 2008, recalls the General Assembly transition from Democratic-control to Republican-control after the 2010 election, relates the funeral business to NC politics, discusses his side career as a fire truck driver and EMT, and shares how humor has served him in the General Assembly.

Brian also reflects on how a day with Rep. Boles in 2013 helped him through a career crisis and how it led to New Frame and #DoPoliticsBetter.

Brian and Skye talk about ALEC, the politics of COVID-19, a closed-door meeting between legislative leaders and the leadership of the NC High School Athletic Association, the Tweet-of-the-Week, and more.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

House Democratic Leader Robert Reives & How His Parents Inspired Him to Enter Politics; and House GOP Leader John Bell Guest-Hosts the Podcast Jul 23, 2021

House Democratic Leader Robert Reives talks about how his late mother impressed upon him the responsibility to serve his community with these words: "If it’s not you, who is it going to be?"

Rep. Reives also talks about his role as the chief negotiator for House Democrats and his relationship with the House GOP Leadership, including House Majority Leader John Bell, who is co-hosting the podcast this week with Brian.

Rep. Bell and Brian also review the week at the General Assembly, including the latest on the House budget, the Senate's frustration with the NC High School Athletic Association, a Senate Finance Committee vote on medicinal marijuana, a tribute to Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin, and a look at the U.S. Senate race in North Carolina.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Sen. Vickie Sawyer: Once an Underdog Senate Candidate Who Now Fights for Underdogs as a Senator Jul 16, 2021

Senator Vickie Sawyer shares her journey growing up in a trailer with a mother and father struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues to her service in the North Carolina Senate fighting for those who need a voice.

The Iredell County Republican also shares what it was like to face one of the most powerful North Carolina politicians in a 2018 primary, which against all odds she prevailed.

In this 20th edition of the podcast, Brian and Skye also walk listeners through a midnight session vote on the House's energy bill, the Senate's criminal justice bill in a House judiciary committee, and they preview an upcoming Senate committee hearing on the medicinal marijuana bill.

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame and the NC Travel Industry Association.

Special Recess Edition Includes an Interview with Rep. Vernetta Alston and a Vacationing Former President Jul 09, 2021

With the General Assembly on a holiday break this week, the podcast records from Carolina Beach and includes a visit from fellow beach vacationer President George W. Bush.

The week before recess, Brian and Skye recorded a conversation with Rep. Vernetta Alston, a Durham Democrat, who talks about her transition from local government service to serving in the General Assembly, her work as a death penalty lawyer, balancing family as a legislator, and how she would improve North Carolina politics.

The podcast also reviews Governor Cooper's veto of the unemployment bill, his signature of the Farm Act, and tells the story of how Tomato Sandwich Day at the General Assembly began.

House Rules Chairman Destin Hall: "But for My Grandparents and the Grace of God" Jul 02, 2021

Rep. Destin Hall (R-Caldwell) opens up about his childhood and the role his grandparents played in raising him and shaping his life. The powerful House Rules Chairman also talks about his leadership position and an unwritten rule he wants more House members to follow.

Brian and Skye also talk about the Senate Judiciary Committee's approval of a medicinal marijuana bill, Governor Cooper's veto of an abortion bill, the General Assembly's response to the NC State baseball debacle, and a venomous snake on the lam in Raleigh.

All that and more in a shortened week at the General Assembly as the July 1-12 recess begins.

Senate Rules Chairman Bill Rabon on Leading & Listening with a Hearing Disability Jun 25, 2021

Senator Bill Rabon talks about his powerful position within the North Carolina Senate as the Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, his old-school conservatism, his career has a veterinarian, and how his inability to hear affects the way he leads and legislates.

Brian and Skye also discuss the Senate budget, the process as it moves to the House, and the options for interest groups with a stake in the spending plan.

The podcast also introduces the Tweet of the Week, which includes video of a state senator catching a snooze during a medicinal marijuana bill hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sen. Kirk deViere Talks Politics, Poverty, and Pocket Squares Jun 18, 2021

As the Senate prepares to propose its version of a spending and tax reform plan for the state, Brian and Skye talk with Senator Kirk deViere about his unique brand of politics, how growing up poor shaped him, and, of course, his pocket squares.

Plus, the energy bill is unveiled, a partisan vote on three elections bills in the Senate, a NC abortion bill could be heading to the US Supreme Court, and Brian and Skye answer a question about legislative pilot programs. Skye also reads a mean tweet about last week's podcast.

Sen. Todd Johnson: 'Problem Solving is What I Do', and a Budget Cap Agreement Announced Jun 11, 2021

As a budget spending cap deal is announced by Senate and House leaders, Brian and Skye sit down with Senator Todd Johnson, who talks about his practical, problem solving style of legislating.

Plus, the latest on the U.S. Senate race in North Carolina, why members of Congress are visiting state legislators, the need for better pay for legislators, the reason we have skeletal sessions, and more.

'Battle Lines Are Being Drawn' and a Conversation with Democratic Senate Whip Jay Chaudhuri Jun 04, 2021

As battle lines are drawn between the House, Senate, and Governor Roy Cooper over a budget cap and a troubled nominee for a cabinet secretary, Brian and Skye talk to Sen. Jay Chaudhuri about his role as the Democratic Whip in the Senate.

Brian and Skye also discuss two unemployment bills pending in the House and Senate and what's in store (or not in store) in the coming week.

House Majority Leader John Bell on Leadership: 'Like Carrying a Wheel Barrow Full of Frogs' May 28, 2021

Rep. John Bell talks about his role leading the House Republican Caucus, negotiating with the Senate, and the joy he's found in working with Rep. Robert Reives, his Democratic counterpart.

Brian and Skye discuss the latest in budget talks, what a major Senate press conference this week may indicate for spending negotiations, and how an inside-the-General Assembly protest means we may be getting back to normal post COVID-19.

'The Real World' with Rep. Brian Turner: MTV to the NC House May 21, 2021

Rep. Brian Turner talks zipper merging, his early career at MTV, his legislative accomplishments, and why he likes camping when he's in Raleigh.

Brian and Skye also talk about a Senate oversight hearing, explain a campaign finance law specific to NC lobbyists, and shares their thinking on when to testify, and when not to tesify, in a General Assembly committee hearing.

Sen. Danny Britt Keeps Winning on Election Day and in the General Assembly May 14, 2021

Sen. Danny Britt talks about his 67% Democratic leaning district, his impressive work on criminal justice reform, and how he works across the political aisle to move major legislation.

Brian and Skye also follow a bill during crossover that was a roller-coaster ride, explain why the Tennessee flag was flying atop the NC State Capitol, and so much more.

Crossover Week, a Conversation with Senator Mutjaba Mohammed, and Legislative Maneuvers May 07, 2021

Brian and Skye talk about long days and late nights this week at the North Carolina General Assembly, which is running at a frenetic pace as we enter "crossover" week.

Senator Mutjaba Mohammed talks about his collaborative work with Republican legislators and interest groups on criminal justice reform legislation while staying true to his progressive values.

The podcast also breaks down the motion to a lay a motion on the table, a rare legislative maneuver made this past week in the House.

NC Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson, the Personification of Do Politics Better Apr 30, 2021

NC Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson talks about how we wants to keep North Carolina's workers safe, his political career and philosophy, and his bipartisan reputation as a consensus-builder who listens to all voices.

The former McDowell County legislator also opens up about our toxic political environment and what he would do to improve it.

Brian and Skye also talk about Apple coming to North Carolina, the child marriage bill making its way in the Senate, how a House member cast floor votes a week late, and much more.

Do Politics Better also welcomes the North Carolina Travel Industry Association as a sponsor of the podcast.

Rep. Graig Meyer, a 'Loyal Opposition' Leader and the Struggle to Do Politics Better Apr 23, 2021

Rep. Graig Meyer talks about his role in the House Democratic caucus and the barrier it creates to working with his Republican colleagues. The Chapel Hill Democrat also talks about his kinship with a House Republican leader, recounts his participation in a Do Politics Dinner in 2019, and offers up how he would fix our politics.

Brian and Skye also talk about a dust up in the House this past week, a Republican-Democrat team effort to deny a proposed committee substitute (PCS) from getting heard, and an April Fools’ joke that is still getting laughs.

Rep. Jason Saine, a "Big Chair" with a Big Sense of Humor Apr 16, 2021

Rep. Jason Saine discusses how he use humor, including frequent quotes from 'The Anchorman', Ice Cube, and 'Ferris Bueller', while legislating. The powerful House budget writer also opens up about a tough time in his life.

Brian and Skye also talk about the latest on the U.S. Senate race in North Carolina, a "for discussion only" bill heard in the House, and how they spend their off-time when not at the General Assembly.

Sen. Mike Woodard & the NC Senate's Night Owl Caucus Apr 09, 2021

Senator Mike Woodard talks about the Senate's bipartisan Night Owl Caucus, including their favorite Raleigh hangouts, and his impromptu singing duets with former Senator Jerry Tillman.

Brian and Skye also talk about their spring break week, the new bipartisan PSA featuring Governor Roy Cooper and General Assembly leaders, and the social aspects of working as a lobbyist.

Sen. Jim Perry Demystifies the North Carolina Senate Apr 02, 2021

Senator Jim Perry contrasts the Senate with the House, explains how he's never been interested in politics but it was interested in him, and talks about his unique brand of politics in the General Assembly.

Brian and Skye also talk about House and Senate caucuses and how a particular bill went sideways in a committee when Democrats teamed up with Republicans on Wednesday.

Rep. Allison Dahle and the Power of Conversation Mar 26, 2021

Rep. Allison Dahle, a Wake County Democrat in her second term, talks about the power of talking to those with whom she disagrees and how she defends her progressive views while maintaining partnerships with key conservatives.

Brian and Skye also talk about a dust-up in a Senate hearing, Governor Cooper's budget proposal, the measured reaction to the Governor's $27 billion spending plan by legislative leaders, and Skye's recent appearance on WRAL's On the Record with Senator Danny Britt.

Rep. John Torbett, the 'Happy Warrior' Mar 19, 2021

Rep. John Torbett, a Gaston County Republican, talks about politics, his professional and political career, including his stint as a lobbyist on Capitol Hill.

Brian and Skye also talk about Governor Cooper and Senator Berger teaming up once again for a PSA, a daylights savings time bill, the mysterious world of bill drafting at the General Assembly, and the NCAA men's basketball tournament.

Governor Cooper and Senator Berger Fist Bump Mar 12, 2021

Governor Cooper and Senator Berger fist bump after a major compromise is found on a school reopening bill, a joint budget meeting turns into a throw-down, retweets and mean tweets, the difference between a PCS and an amendment, why we love the General Assembly security screeners, and so much more.

Send us your suggestions for the podcast at skye@new-frame.com or brian@new-frame.com.

Our New Podcast! COVID Relief, Motions to Reconsider, Veto Override Strategies, and How To Talk to Legislators About, Well, Sex Mar 06, 2021

The Do Politics Better Podcast debut reviews the week of March 1-5 at the NC General Assembly and discusses the "motion to reconsider" parliamentary procedure, why legislators flip votes on veto overrides, and how lobbyists compare to normal people.

Skye David also talks about her lobbying career and how she talks to legislators about the sensitive subject of sexual assault.

Hosted by lobbyists Brian Lewis and Skye David.