In this compelling episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Alaska State Representative Sarah Vance, who represents District 6 out of Homer, for an in-depth look at the Alaska State Legislature’s current session. Recorded on March 3, 2025, this conversation unpacks the bills that have landed in House Finance—a key indicator of legislative priorities—45 days into the session. From the recently passed Railroad Corporation Financing bill to proposals like increased educatio...
Mar 08, 2025•26 min•Ep 437•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Alaska State Representative Will Stapp for an in-depth discussion on the pressing financial and legislative issues facing the state. At the heart of the conversation is House Bill 69, a controversial proposal to significantly increase education funding—without a clear plan to pay for it. Rep. Stapp explains the political maneuvering surrounding the bill, the challenges of balancing Alaska’s budget, and the broader implicat...
Mar 03, 2025•46 min•Ep 436•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Coach Stacy Segura of the Nikiski High School Volleyball Team to share their incredible journey to becoming the 3-A 2024 Alaska State Champions. A true Cinderella story, the team overcame early setbacks in the state tournament, clawing their way back from the loser bracket to face the 2-time defending state champions, Kenai High School. In a historic showdown, they defeated Kenai for the first time since 2019, sweeping ...
Nov 26, 2024•29 min•Ep 433•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Rodger Carlyle, a pilot, adventurer, political strategist, ghostwriter, and novelist. Known for weaving historical truths and current events into compelling thrillers and historical fiction, Rodger shares his journey into writing, the inspiration behind his books, and the secrets to crafting stories that readers can't put down. Whether he's uncovering hidden history or tackling unfinished global conflicts, Rodger's hero...
Nov 13, 2024•23 min•Ep 432•Transcript available on Metacast In this compelling episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Speaker Cathy Tilton to discuss her journey, motivations, and aspirations as she seeks re-election for State Representative in District 26. A lifelong Alaskan with deep roots in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley, Speaker Tilton shares stories from her upbringing, her commitment to the community, and her belief in a pro-Alaska agenda. Tune in as they delve into critical topics such as her vision for economic gro...
Nov 04, 2024•15 min•Ep 431•Transcript available on Metacast Host John Quick sits down with Alaska’s own hockey legend, Scotty Gomez, on the Must Read Alaska Show. A two-time Stanley Cup champion and NHL Calder Trophy winner for Rookie of the Year, Scott shares his journey from growing up in Anchorage to reaching the pinnacle of professional hockey with teams like the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers. Now giving back through the Scotty Gomez Foundation, he’s helping the next generation of Alaskans keep hockey alive. Tune in to hear about his career ...
Oct 22, 2024•23 min•Ep 430•Transcript available on Metacast On this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Governor Mike Dunleavy for a deep dive into some of the most pressing issues shaping Alaska's future. The Governor discusses his plans for education reform, including a bonus program aimed at getting money directly into the hands of teachers to help retain top talent across the state. With Alaska leading the nation in charter schools, he also shares his vision for expanding educational opportunities and improving outcom...
Oct 10, 2024•24 min•Ep 429•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, John Quick talks with Nick Begich about his campaign for Congress, challenging incumbent Congresswoman Mary Peltola. Born and raised in Alaska, Nick is a small business owner, family man, and commonsense leader who stands for less government, reduced regulation, and pro-oil development. With a background in entrepreneurship and business, Nick brings a wealth of experience and a passion for responsible growth to the table. Tune in as he shares his vis...
Oct 09, 2024•25 min•Ep 428•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, Rep. Sarah Vance joins us to discuss her re-election campaign for the Alaska State House. Representing Homer, Sarah highlights her ongoing efforts to extend the Senior Benefits Program, improve infrastructure like Homer’s Kachemak Drive and the Homer Harbor, and tackle vital community projects. She shares how her deep roots in Homer and her leadership roles—Chair of the House Judiciary Committee and Vice-Chair of the House Transportation Committee—eq...
Oct 04, 2024•22 min•Ep 427•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Kelly Tshibaka, the Trump Campaign Director for Alaska. They dive into the presidential race, discussing why Trump is the Pro-Alaska, Pro-Oil Development candidate and what this means for the state. Kelly also shares her support for Nick Begich in the congressional race and offers insight into whether Trump has a shot at winning the national election, where Alaska remains a stronghold for the former president....
Oct 02, 2024•35 min•Ep 426•Transcript available on Metacast On this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, John Quick speaks with Rep. Kevin McCabe about his vision for Alaska's future. They dive into McCabe's thoughts on limiting government growth, the state of education in Alaska, and the urgent infrastructure repair needs throughout the state. Rep. McCabe also shares insights into his ongoing reelection campaign, his dedication to a Constitutional PFD, and his commitment to public service, including his stance on fiscal restraint and resource developme...
Sep 18, 2024•19 min•Ep 425•Transcript available on Metacast Join Host John Quick on the Must Read Alaska Show as he sits down with Derek Black, the visionary entrepreneur behind Choose RCVRY and Looking For Summits. Derek shares his inspiring journey of starting and scaling multiple clothing brands in Alaska with a mission to spread hope and raise awareness about addiction and human trafficking. From his personal battle with addiction to his work supporting recovery efforts, Derek offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs on building a purpose-...
Sep 18, 2024•26 min•Ep 424•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Ben Carpenter, who has called Alaska home since 1985. Ben shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Air Force and Army to becoming a dedicated representative in the Alaska State Legislature. He discusses his reasons for running, what sets him apart from his opponent, his stance on new taxes, and his vision for Alaska’s future. Ben also reflects on his family life, his passion for Alaska’s natural resources, and his co...
Sep 16, 2024•25 min•Ep 423•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Bill Elam, a current Kenai Peninsula Borough Assemblyman and candidate for the Alaska State House. Bill discusses why he's running for State House, what he would prioritize first if elected, and the challenges and victories he's experienced during his tenure on the Assembly. Check out Bill here: www.billelam.com
Sep 14, 2024•17 min•Ep 422•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Mike Cronk, a former 1989 Northwest Conference NCAA basketball champion now running for the Alaska Senate. Mike shares how his athletic career shaped his leadership under pressure, his 20+ year teaching career, and his dedication to Alaska's rural communities. Listen as Mike explains what sets him apart from his opponent, why he’s running for Senate, and how teamwork continues to guide his approach to leadership and service...
Sep 04, 2024•19 min•Ep 421•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews John Hillyer, a retired veteran U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, as he enters the race for Alaska's House District 8. Hillyer, who has spent 32 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve, shares his motivations for running, his key priorities if elected, and what distinguishes him from other candidates.
Aug 29, 2024•13 min•Ep 420•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Mayor Edna DeVries, the current Mayor of Mat-Su Borough, to discuss her decision to run for re-election. Edna shares her motivations for seeking another term, outlines her key priorities if re-elected, and explains what sets her apart from the other candidates in the race. Tune in to hear an in-depth conversation about the future of Mat-Su Borough and why Edna believes she’s the right choice to continue leading the comm...
Aug 29, 2024•13 min•Ep 419•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Janice Park, candidate for State Senate District F. Janice shares why she is running, what she stands for, and what sets her apart from her opponents. She also discusses her plans to address key issues for Alaskans and how people can get in touch with her campaign. Janice has a background in public health, co-founded Alaska Water Systems, and has lived in Abbott Loop for over 20 years.
Aug 17, 2024•8 min•Ep 418•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Jeremy Bynum, candidate for Alaska State House District 1. Jeremy discusses why he is running for State Representative, his key priorities, and what sets him apart from his opponents. With experience as an elected assembly member on the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly, Jeremy shares how his background has prepared him for this role and his vision for the future of Southern Southeast Alaska. Tune in to hear more about his...
Aug 17, 2024•10 min•Ep 417•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Gretchen Guess, the new President and CEO of Rasmuson Foundation. Gretchen shares insights on how her previous roles as an elected official in Alaska, including serving as a member of the state legislature and president of the Anchorage School Board, have prepared her for this leadership position. Gretchen discusses the vital role Rasmuson Foundation plays in Alaska, supporting communities through grant programs and initiat...
Aug 06, 2024•18 min•Ep 416•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Rick Whitbeck, State Director for Power The Future, to discuss the impact of the Biden administration on Alaska, the state of Cook Inlet energy, the implications of the Chevron's decision and whether Rick is hopeful for Alaska's future. With a 35-year career in Alaska, Rick brings a wealth of experience from managing political campaigns and hosting the Power The Future Energy Hour radio program. Tune in for an engaging ...
Aug 06, 2024•24 min•Ep 415•Transcript available on Metacast Host John Quick welcomes Senator Matt Claman to The Must Read Alaska Show as part of our Candidate Spotlight Forum. Senator Claman, who has served West Anchorage in the Alaska State Senate since 2023 and previously in the State House, discusses his campaign for re-election and his top priorities. In this episode, he outlines his focus on improving public safety, managing the state budget, and protecting constitutional rights. Matt shares his approach to collaboration and his vision for Alaska’s ...
Aug 01, 2024•18 min•Ep 414•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, your host John Quick sits down with Joelle Hall, President of the Alaska AFL-CIO and a key member of Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance's transition team. Join us as we delve into the roles and responsibilities of the transition team focused on good government, safe streets and trails, and building our future. Joelle shares details about the team's meetings, the collaborative process of developing actionable recommendations for the new mayor, and the i...
Jul 03, 2024•34 min•Ep 413•Transcript available on Metacast Tune in to The Must Read Alaska Show for a compelling conversation with Brandy Pennington, a lifelong Alaskan and candidate for State House. Brandy brings a wealth of experience as a business owner, landlord, and dedicated community member, driven by a deep-rooted commitment to the growth and prosperity of District 9. In this episode, Brandy articulates her vision for District 9, focusing on fiscal responsibility, resource development, and energy independence. She discusses her plans to support ...
Jul 02, 2024•32 min•Ep 412•Transcript available on Metacast Host John Quick dives into a compelling conversation with Andrew Shane, a dedicated community leader and candidate for school board in the Mat-Su. Andrew shares his journey from firefighter to small business owner, highlighting his passion for education and public safety. Discover Andrew's motivations for running, his top priorities if elected, and his commitment to integrity and fiscal responsibility. Learn about his initiatives to protect women's sports, enhance school safety, and expand workf...
Jul 02, 2024•10 min•Ep 411•Transcript available on Metacast Join Host John Quick on this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show as we sit down with former State Representative Sharon Jackson, a dedicated public servant with a rich history of advocating for Alaskan values. Sharon Jackson's journey from Philadelphia, PA to the Alaskan State House of Representatives is a testament to her unwavering commitment to service and leadership. Sharon proudly served in the United States Army, which brought her to Alaska in 1983. After completing her service, she becam...
Jun 28, 2024•12 min•Ep 410•Transcript available on Metacast Join Host John Quick, on this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show as we sit down with Corey DeAngelis, a leading voice in the education reform movement and a passionate advocate for school choice. Corey is a senior fellow at the American Federation for Children, the executive director at the Educational Freedom Institute, and a senior fellow at the Reason Foundation. He has been recognized on the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his impactful work in education policy and has received numerous awards...
Jun 28, 2024•19 min•Ep 409•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Jared Goecker, a candidate running for State Senate, District L, representing Eagle River, Chugiak, Birchwood, and Peters Creek. Jared shares his deep-rooted connection to Alaska, his personal story, and his goals for the future. Join us as we discuss: - Jared's motivations for running for office. - His top priorities if elected, including government accountability, crime reduction, budget management, tax policies, and ...
Jun 19, 2024•10 min•Ep 408•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Senator James Kaufman to discuss his highlights during the recent legislative session. Senator Kaufman, a common sense leader with over 35 years of experience in Alaska’s oil and gas industry, shares how his background in quality management has influenced his work in the Senate. He talks about his commitment to improving the safety, security, and resiliency of the Anchorage Hillside community and beyond. Tune in to lear...
Jun 18, 2024•22 min•Ep 407•Transcript available on Metacast Join host John Quick on this episode of Must Read Alaska as he sits down with Nancy Dahlstrom, the current Lt. Governor of Alaska, who is stepping up to run for the United States Congress. Nancy shares her vision for Alaska's future and her commitment to bringing tough, proven, Alaska First leadership to Washington. Discover her strategies for tackling border security, defending Alaskan energy, combating inflation, and protecting our freedoms. Nancy also delves into her plans for public safety, ...
May 31, 2024•27 min•Ep 406•Transcript available on Metacast 
