A contentious committee hearing in Raleigh revealed that the Chapel Hill-Carborough City School District is not in compliance with Senate Bill 49, the Parents' Bill of Rights, which aims to increase transparency in curriculum and protect children from inappropriate content. The district's superintendent, Dr. Rodney Trice, was questioned by lawmakers over the district's handling of materials in its libraries, with some lawmakers expressing concerns that the district is intentionally subverting the law. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Supreme Court is considering a rehearing of the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to education funding in the state. The case has been a major point of contention in North Carolina politics for decades, with some lawmakers arguing that it is a key factor in the state's education funding woes. [... more]

The Todd Sterns Radio Show discusses the California gubernatorial debate, Lindsey Graham's potential loss, the Southern Poverty Law Center's indictment, and the state of the school system in America, including issues with education, local control, homelessness, and gas prices. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have reached an agreement on legislation to overcome a shortfall in the state's Medicaid program, while tightening oversight of the program. The legislation, House Bill 696, would allocate an additional $319 million to cover the Medicaid rebase for the remainder of the fiscal year and implement several policy changes designed to strengthen eligibility verification and program integrity. Meanwhile, a major election integrity lawsuit is continuing to play out in the state as the State Board of Elections is asking a three-judge panel to jump in on a case dealing with so-called never residents. Additionally, some North Carolina lawmakers have filed a proposal that would dock their own pay if they failed to pass a state budget on time, an idea that appears to have overwhelming public support. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein laid out his recommended state budget for fiscal year 26-27, proposing a $3 billion spending increase and tax cuts. He emphasized the need to invest in public education, workforce development, and public safety, while also addressing issues like childcare and housing costs. The governor's budget also includes proposals to increase teacher pay, expand community college programs, and provide more funding for school safety and mental health services. [... more]

Research suggests that classroom technology may be undermining learning, rather than revolutionizing it. Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, a neuroscientist and educator, argues that digital tools erode attention, empathy, and long-term retention, leading to a decline in cognitive abilities. He advocates for a return to traditional teaching methods, emphasizing the importance of human interaction and empathy in the learning process. [... more]

The North Carolina State Board of Elections adopted new non-citizen voter rules despite heated debate. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana, citing a report that warns of the dangers of the state's unregulated cannabis market. Additionally, Duke Energy is seeking a $800 million rate increase to recoup energy costs from a recent cold snap. The U.S. birth rate has hit a record low, with implications for the economy and public education. North Carolina's demographic shift is expected to have significant impacts on the state's economy and education system. [... more]

Women often struggle with financial confidence due to uncertainty about their identity in Christ, leading to hesitation in making financial decisions. A faith-based approach to financial stewardship can provide a foundation of security and clarity, empowering women to make wise financial decisions and live out their purpose. [... more]

North Carolina made a pivotal decision 250 years ago, adopting the Halifax Resolves, which authorized its representatives to vote for independence from Great Britain, making it the first colony to do so. The document's significance is being renewed as state leaders and historians commemorate its anniversary. Meanwhile, a Vietnamese electric car manufacturer, VinFast, has faced delays and setbacks in its North Carolina factory plans, raising questions about the company's ability to meet its hiring goals and the state's investment in the project. [... more]

North Carolina's rural healthcare system is on unstable footing, with hospital leaders warning of potential closures due to financial strain. The state legislature is considering a $213 million plan to stabilize and transform care in rural areas. Meanwhile, a lawsuit is underway challenging the Trump administration's tariff policies, with multiple states, including North Carolina, joining the suit. Additionally, wildfires are burning across the state, with agricultural officials warning of the risks facing communities statewide. [... more]

Allegations of election mismanagement and misconduct have been made against the election director in Anson County, North Carolina, with claims of failure to execute lawful board duties, interference with statutory duties, and mismanagement affecting election administration. The county board has filed a petition to remove the director, and the state board of elections will decide whether to terminate her. Meanwhile, a lawsuit over election integrity in North Carolina has been settled, with the state board of elections agreeing to comply with a 2023 law requiring the removal of non-citizen voters from the rolls. [... more]

The story of Captain Kangaroo, a beloved children's television show that aired for nearly 40 years, and its creator, Robert James Keeshin, who brought gentle and educational programming to millions of children. The show's legacy continues to inspire and educate new generations. [... more]

A majority of North Carolina voters oppose deploying ground troops to Iran, and a plurality say the United States was wrong to launch military action there. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly are scrutinizing the costs of renewable energy, particularly solar power, and its impact on the state's energy grid and taxpayers. [... more]

The Iran conflict continues to escalate, with President Trump threatening to bomb Iran's power plants and other infrastructure targets if Tehran doesn't reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, lawmakers are working on bipartisan immigration reform, with the Dignity Act aiming to provide legal status to undocumented immigrants who meet certain criteria. In education, the state of Mississippi has seen significant gains in reading and math scores, thanks to conservative reforms, and Governor Tate Reeves discusses the success of the 'Mississippi Miracle' on One Nation. Additionally, Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, talks about the economy and his thoughts on potential presidential candidates, and the World Cup is coming to America this summer, with Alan Rothenberg, a pioneer in American soccer, discussing the sport's growth and the potential for women's soccer to reach new heights. [... more]

A 4-3 decision from the North Carolina Supreme Court has dismissed the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to public education funding. The ruling has significant implications for education policy and the constitutional separation of powers in the state. [... more]

The Todd Sterns Radio Show discusses various topics including the President's address on Iran, the Supreme Court hearing on birthright citizenship, and the audit of the Memphis school district revealing widespread fraud and abuse. The show also touches on the importance of national security, education, and the need for accountability in government. [... more]

A team from the Salvation Army's Southern Staff Band reflects on their 10-day trip to South Africa, where they led worship services and toured facilities. They share moments that humbled them, including the dedication of the local people and the contrast between their own experiences and those of the South Africans, who showed remarkable hospitality and humility despite facing significant challenges. [... more]

In rural Malawi, many children wake up each day unsure if they'll eat and relying on water that can make them sick. Cross International is working to break the cycle of poverty, provide clean water, and introduce families to the love of Jesus. Their long-term approach involves partnering with local ministries to equip communities with vital physical resources and spiritual support. [... more]

Parents on the Level delivers expert localized research and presentations tailored for parents, lawmakers, and community leaders to expose the growing unease about what's happening in schools, where DEI, social-emotional learning, and AI-driven surveillance tools are shaping students' hearts and minds, and turning them into cultural Marxists. [... more]

Kevin Sammy shares his family's story of immigration from rural South India to the United States, where his father's determination to learn and his mother's support helped him achieve success through education and football, embodying the American Dream. [... more]

Many faith-based ministries are missing out on billions of dollars in charitable gift matching programs due to restrictive policies. A Christian investment firm is working to change this by engaging with companies to create more inclusive programs. Meanwhile, a couple is seeking advice on how to manage their retirement accounts, including a TSP with a large balance, and a listener asks about the factors that determine when to start taking Social Security payments. [... more]

Todd Stern discusses various topics including Sharia law, Social Security benefits, immigration overhaul, public education system, illegal voting, radical Islam, terrorist attacks, Department of Homeland Security funding, taxes, business growth in Seattle and Bellevue, and more. [... more]

A new Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education has been formed in North Carolina to study the state's school system, examining areas such as teacher training, student achievement, and accountability measures. Meanwhile, concerns are emerging around Medicaid fraud, with a recent scheme exposing improper enrollment and potential fraud during the sign-up process. Additionally, Western North Carolina is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, with a significant funding shortfall for water infrastructure repairs. [... more]

A close election in North Carolina's 26th Senate District has Sheriff Sam Page extending his lead over Senate President Phil Berger, who has been in the North Carolina General Assembly since 2000. Meanwhile, NC State University is facing a lawsuit over alleged PCB contamination in the Poe Hall building, and a state audit has found financial mismanagement in the Winston-Salem Forsyth County School District, including a $15 million budget deficit. [... more]

New parents can benefit from a financial checklist to ensure they're prepared for the added expenses of raising a child. This includes updating health insurance, life insurance, budgeting, creating or updating a will, building an emergency fund, updating taxes, and considering education savings. A financial advisor can help individuals navigate these changes and make informed decisions about their finances. [... more]

A wild primary night in North Carolina saw several incumbents lose their seats, including some who have served for decades. The results were largely driven by social media, with many voters surprised by the outcomes. The Senate District 26 race between Phil Berger and Sam Page is particularly contentious, with a two-vote difference between the two candidates. The outcome of the election may not be known for several weeks, as provisional ballots and absentee ballots are still being counted. [... more]

The discussion revolves around the concept of knowledge and vengeance in the context of God's sovereignty and accountability. The hosts explore the idea that knowledge and vengeance are not just human concepts, but are also attributes of God, and that He is the one who ultimately weighs actions and brings justice. The conversation touches on the theme of accountability, highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and the consequences that follow. The hosts also draw parallels between the biblical account of Haman and the current situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the idea that God is ultimately in control and that justice will be served. [... more]

A Polish farm wife risked her entire family's life to save two young girls from the Nazi occupation, and her selfless act was later recognized as an example of humanitarianism during World War II. [... more]

Phyllis Wheatley, a young African American slave, was brought to America in 1761 and eventually became the first published African American poet, surprising her owners with her literacy and writing skills, and later gaining recognition and freedom in England. [... more]

The Jeffrey Epstein scandal reveals a complex web of connections between powerful individuals and institutions, exposing a deep state apparatus that seeks to control and manipulate humanity through transhumanism, genetic engineering, and eugenics. This scandal highlights the existence of a satanic pedophilia network that involves some of the world's most influential people, and raises questions about the true nature of power and control in our world. [... more]

The intersection of faith, culture, and society, including discussions on transgender ideology, Christian worldview, mental health, Christian schools, church and state, Jesus Christ, and critical theory. [... more]

The skilled trades are experiencing a massive workforce gap, with millions of openings in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. Mike Rowe, founder of MicroWorks, discusses the importance of retraining the workforce and investing in programs that support trade school education and apprenticeships. He also touches on the need for energy independence and the potential of rare earth mining to create new jobs and stimulate economic growth. [... more]

A Florida couple, Sophia and Deshaun Olds, adopted seven siblings who were separated throughout four different foster homes, providing them with a stable and loving home, and serving as an example of true religion and the importance of caring for orphans. [... more]

Women are increasingly becoming the primary financial decision makers after inheriting wealth from their spouses, and with this responsibility comes the opportunity for wise and faithful stewardship. Sharon Epps, president of Kingdom Advisors, shares insights from research on Christian women's financial habits and generosity, highlighting the importance of clarity, confidence, and biblical understanding in making financial decisions. [... more]

Millions around the world are stuck in generational poverty, but the body of Christ is working together to break this cycle. Faith and Finance is partnering with Cross International to lift 250 kids in Malawi, Uganda, and Zambia out of poverty and introduce them to the love of Jesus. [... more]

Parents can play a significant role in shaping their children's understanding of sexual integrity by teaching them a biblical perspective and modeling healthy values. This involves creating a safe and respectful environment where children can explore their questions and concerns, and learning to communicate effectively about sensitive topics. By emphasizing the importance of God's design for sex and relationships, parents can help their children develop a strong sense of identity and self-worth, and make informed decisions about their own sexuality. [... more]

Christians are being manipulated by a misguided form of empathy, which is leading them to support leftist policies and reject biblical truth. This concept of untethered empathy is being used to hijack Christian societies and institutions, causing them to prioritize feelings over facts and morality. Christians need to be aware of this dynamic and learn to apply biblical compassion, rather than being swayed by the emotional blackmail of untethered empathy. [... more]

The Supreme Court's decision on tariffs has sparked controversy, with President Trump expressing his disappointment and frustration. Meanwhile, a student government president at Iowa State University has been impeached for his association with Turning Point USA, a conservative organization. The incident has raised concerns about the politicization of education and the indoctrination of students with liberal ideologies. [... more]

Archbishop John Hughes, an Irish immigrant, stood toe-to-toe with anti-Catholic nativists in 19th-century America, fighting for the rights of his people and paving the way for the Roman Catholic Church to become a powerful force in the United States. His story is a testament to the courage and resilience of immigrants who came to America seeking a better life, and the importance of religious freedom and tolerance in shaping the country's history. [... more]

Donald Trump's legacy is being reevaluated, particularly in regards to his impact on race relations and education. The podcast discusses the importance of conservative values in education and the need for local elections to be taken seriously. The conversation also touches on immigration policy and its effects on local communities, as well as the current state of the economy. [... more]

Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Security Conference is sparking debate about Western civilization, Islam, and the role of Christianity in America. President Trump's America First agenda is also being discussed, as well as the importance of faith and the Bible in American society. [... more]