David A. Graham is a staff writer for The Atlantic and author of The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America. David joins the Hometown Holler to unpack what Project 2025 actually is, how it’s shaping Trump’s second term, and the real-world consequences already unfolding for Americans. The conversation also explores the evolution of Trump’s rhetoric, why public fear of crime often outpaces reality, the surge of nationwide anti-Trump protests, and why Southern communities may face the next ...
Jun 30, 2025•1 hr 9 min
The Holler hangs out with Patrick Newton, Chair of the North Carolina Forward Party, to dive into the role of third parties in American democracy. We unpack the arguments both for and against third-party movements, explore what North Carolina voters could gain from having the Forward Party on the ballot, and examine how alternative parties can shift political conversations—even without winning elections. Patrick also shares why putting data above ideology is crucial for building effective polici...
Jun 23, 2025•53 min
This week on The Hometown Holler podcast, we sit down with Blair Reeves—North Carolina’s favorite Waffle House Democrat and co-founder of Carolina Forward. Blair breaks down how the collapse of local media and a decade of ruthless gerrymandering paved the way for unchecked corruption in Raleigh. We dig into how the GOP supermajority seized control—and what it means for our schools, environment, voting rights, and future. What will it take to fight back and restore sanity in North Carolina politi...
Jun 16, 2025•1 hr 4 min
What happens when a nationally touring comedian with ADHD, a love for cats, and a deep sense of political urgency takes a vow to become Democracy's greatest defender? Answer: Blaire Postman! The Holler hangs out with America's Cat-Lady-In-Chief to explore how she turned a meme into a movement! Starting from scratch (pun intended) Blaire unleashed the full furry fury of America's cat ladies in 2024 and she's just getting started! With biting jokes and blistering insight, Blaire brings hope, wisdo...
Jun 09, 2025•58 min
Stormie Daie—drag queen, science educator, and LGBTQ+ activist—returns to the Holler to talk about growing up queer in the South, the intersection of drag and education, and using art as activism. A founding member of the legendary House of Coxx in Durham, NC, Stormie shares how drag became her armor—both a celebration of self and a shield in the fight for visibility and equality. We cover everything from femmephobia and trans rights to drag bans, bomb threats, and Pride parades. Whether she’s p...
Jun 02, 2025•39 min
In this episode of The Hometown Holler, we sit down with former North Carolina State Representative, Attorney Chaz Beasley, to talk about the state of politics — in North Carolina and across the country. From the future of democracy to the challenges of public service, Chaz offers deep insights, honest reflections, and thoughtful takes on what it means to lead in today’s America.If you're interested in North Carolina politics, Democracy, or how real change happens on the ground, this episode is ...
May 26, 2025•53 min
Kenny Wortman ain’t your typical politician. He’s a mohawk-wearing, neck-tattoo-showing, no-time-for-BS father, veteran firefighter, and funeral director. He’s also a lifelong Republican. Wortman joins the Holler to reveal what happens when you stop preaching the party gospel and start asking real questions. From small-town power grabs to backroom deals, this episode unpacks how local corruption can quietly sabotage public education, affordable housing, and economic development anywhere. Wortman...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this episode of The Hometown Holler, we sit down with award-winning North Carolina photographer and storyteller Cornell Watson. Hailing from Weldon, NC, Cornell uses his camera to capture the heart, history, and humanity of black communities across the South, blending artistry with unapologetic truth-telling.From intimate family portraits to bold confrontations with systemic injustice, Cornell’s images don’t just tell stories—they challenge us to see, to reflect, and to act. His work has been...
May 12, 2025•50 min
Stephen Prince is a patriotic millionaire—and he wants you to know the game is rigged. In this episode, the vice-chair of the Patriotic Millionaires breaks down why wealth hoarding isn’t just unfair—it’s un-American. From his humble beginnings in small-town South Georgia to building a multimillion-dollar business, Prince shares how he came to believe that raising taxes on the rich is the most patriotic thing we can do. Along the way, he digs into the need for a living wage, the myth of meritocra...
May 05, 2025•1 hr 8 min
Jacob Brooks of National Director of the Great Economy Project joins the Holler for a whiskey-fueled conversation about the soul of the American economy—and why it's time to rethink everything we thought we knew about taxes, patriotism, and working-class power. Jacob breaks down how the ultra-wealthy are hiding their money in plain sight, why living wages are key to saving rural America, and how the Left can reclaim economic patriotism without apology. We also dive into North Carolina politics, ...
Apr 27, 2025•1 hr 1 min
In this episode, we sit down with Winston-Salem native Sam Grote—entrepreneur, economist, and founder of the NC Business Impact Forum. Sam shares his journey from hedge funds to launching startups and why he believes better business policy can unite a divided democracy. We talk about the power of investing in kids, what government efficiency really means, and why data needs a human story to matter.👉 Support the Holler by Donating to our PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=...
Apr 21, 2025•55 min
In a world of political grandstanders and culture war crusaders, Woodson Bradley is the real deal—grounded, gutsy, and getting things done. She joins The Hometown Holler to talk about what it really means to be a “moderate” Democrat in today’s political climate, and why making politics fun and accessible is key to building power in her community. Woodson dives into the NCGOP’s wildly reckless Un-Concealed Carry Bill, the deeper issue of why some lawmakers continue siding with domestic abusers, a...
Apr 06, 2025•59 min
Justice Allison Riggs joins The Holler for an in-depth conversation on her landmark 2024 election case and the ongoing fight to protect voting rights in North Carolina. As a NC Supreme Court Justice and longtime voting rights advocate, Riggs shares powerful insights on defending election integrity, the challenges of combating voter suppression, and the broader implications for democracy.In this episode, Justice Riggs breaks down:✅ The key legal strategies behind her 2024 election case✅ The growi...
Mar 31, 2025•44 min
Dr. Heather Cox Richardson joins The Hometown Holler to break down the chaos of MAGA-occupied Washington and analyze Trump 2.0, offering a thought-provoking discussion on the future of American democracy. A professor at Boston College and the author of seven influential books, Heather has become one of the most impactful public intellectuals of our time, particularly through her widely read "Letters from an American" newsletter, where she places contemporary news in its historical context. In th...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 8 min
Jello shots, hot takes, and Girl Talk Jenga—this is the episode you’ve all been waiting for. Kate Barr joins Quinn and Daniel for a lively, no-holds-barred (see what we did there???) conversation about what it really takes to shake up politics in North Carolina. From her unconventional “Can’t Win” campaign to her ongoing fight against gerrymandering, Kate breaks down why stepping up—even when the odds are stacked against you—matters more than ever. The Tar Heel trio dives into the current state ...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Quinn and Daniel hang out with Dante Pittman, a first-term state rep from Wilson County, to talk about what it’s really like to be in the room where decisions get made. They cover his journey from grassroots campaigning to flipping a Republican-held seat, the biggest surprises about working in state government, and why the fight for public education, rural communities, and fair wages matters to everyone—even if you don’t follow politics. Whether you’re keeping up with North Carolina news, trying...
Mar 10, 2025•46 min
The North Carolina General Assembly is back at it—pushing bills that range from dangerous to downright ridiculous. Kate Barr (AKA NC's Favorite Loser) helps Quinn and Daniel break down the legislation you need to know about: The Bad—A blatant attempt to limit early voting (HB 66), making it harder for North Carolinians to cast their ballots. The Ugly—A power grab that strips the Attorney General of the ability to challenge unconstitutional executive orders (SB 58). The Wacky—A bill that lets 18-...
Mar 03, 2025•35 min
What does it take to break into the film industry—without Hollywood connections, a big studio budget, or a last name that opens doors? Phil Blattenberger knows. A history buff turned award-winning filmmaker, Phil has made a career out of telling the kinds of stories Hollywood often overlooks. His directorial debut, Point Man (2018), shined a light on racial tensions within the Vietnam War. His WWII thriller Condor’s Nest (2023) brought suspense and action to the big screen. And just weeks ago, h...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 1 min
The boys from Alamance hang out with Tami Kress, executive director of Studio One. Tami shares the inspiring story behind Studio One, a creative hub empowering young artists and performers in North Carolina. From its grassroots beginnings to its impact on local youth, she discusses the power of the arts in shaping communities, fostering self-expression, and building confidence. The trio also dive into the challenges arts organizations face today and why investing in creative spaces is essential ...
Feb 17, 2025•40 min
The Holler welcomes Representative Robert Reives, Democratic Leader of the North Carolina House of Representatives, to break down the future of NC politics. Born and raised in Sanford, Rep. Reives has spent his career fighting for economic development, education, and justice reform. From leading bipartisan efforts to expand workforce training to championing Medicaid expansion, he’s been at the forefront of policies that strengthen working families. We ask Rep. Reives what leadership means to him...
Feb 10, 2025•53 min
The Holler welcomes authors Belle Boggs and Sylvester Allen Jr. to discuss the life and legacy of Wyatt Outlaw, the first African American to serve as Town Commissioner and Constable of Graham, North Carolina. Outlaw was lynched by the White Brotherhood, a branch of the Ku Klux Klan, on February 26, 1870. Belle and Sylvester explore the role of the Union League, the enduring impact of racial violence, and how history continues to shape the present. They also share the inspirations behind their w...
Feb 03, 2025•37 min
In this episode of The Hometown Holler Quinn and Daniel have a powerful conversation with some North Carolina high school students about the current state of education. They discuss the hot topics like school vouchers, mental health resources, and how to improve the learning environment for students and teachers alike. Get unique insights straight from students as they share their personal experiences and ideas for change. If you care about education, student voices, and the future of our school...
Jan 27, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this special MLK Day episode of the Hometown Holler, Quinn and Daniel sit down with veteran civil rights activist and author Chuck Fager. A Quaker writer with a lifelong commitment to justice, Chuck shares his extraordinary firsthand account of marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the unexpected twist that led him to eat Dr. King's dinner. Chuck’s story goes far beyond Selma and his time as a foot soldier in Dr. King’s army of peace. His decades of activism include leading anti-w...
Jan 20, 2025•55 min
Welcome to Season 2 of the Hometown Holler podcast! In this explosive premiere, the boys from Alamance spotlight Jefferson Griffin—AKA the King of Sore Losers. After failing THREE times to unseat Justice Allison Riggs in 2024, Griffin is now attempting to overturn a fair election by tossing out 60,000 votes. (Visit thehometownholler.com to see if YOUR vote is one of them.) With hand-rolled wit and unfiltered honesty, Daniel and Quinn break down the strategy, the consequences, and the real impact...
Jan 13, 2025•30 min
In this live season finale, Daniel and Quinn call in a special guest to answer the question everyone's asking: what the %&!$ happened? The Hometown Holler podcast returns in early 2025! In the meantime, stay up to date by following us on social media @thehometownholler. Believe in our mission? Become a Friend of the Holler today by joining our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler . As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time....
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 8 min
In the penultimate episode of the season, Daniel and Quinn recap the highs and lows of the election season and consider what’s next for North Carolina. They also break down what North Carolina voters can expect as the results roll in on election night. Join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler . As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time. Connect with the Holler on social media @thehometownholler or by visiting our website www.thehom...
Nov 04, 2024•24 min
We had an interview scheduled with Michele Morrow, GOP nominee for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. She bailed at the last minute. We did the interview anyway. Join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/thehometownholler. As a Patreon supporter, you help us build a better North Carolina, one conversation at a time. Connect with the Holler on social media @thehometownholler or by visiting our website www.thehometownholler.com
Oct 21, 2024•47 min
Mo Green's Vision for North Carolina's Education System This week, the Holler hangs out with Mo Green, candidate for North Carolina's state superintendent of public instruction! Our next state superintendent will oversee a school system serving nearly 1.5 million students and a budget in the tens of billions. For these reasons alone, it's one of the most important races on our ballot this year. A former superintendent of Guilford County Schools and NC public school parent, Mo shares his journey ...
Oct 14, 2024•50 min
Quamekia "Que" Shavers knows the key to boosting voter turnout: food, fun, and fellowship. It also doesn't hurt to have badass cups (listen and you'll see what we mean). As the founder of The Pink Vote, Que focuses on increasing engagement among Black and Brown voters. She joins the Holler to share her political wisdom, emphasizing the importance of building trust within communities and outlining the innovative tactics employed by The Pink Vote. Que offers strategies for making politics relatabl...
Oct 11, 2024•45 min
Quinn and Daniel sit down with Senator Rachel Hunt, the Democratic candidate for North Carolina Lieutenant Governor. Senator Hunt shares her insights on what it takes to run a statewide campaign, diving into the challenges, strategies, and personal motivations behind her bid for one of the state's top executive offices. The conversation highlights the essential role of the Lieutenant Governor, breaking down the responsibilities and influence the office holds in shaping North Carolina's future. S...
Oct 07, 2024•35 min
