Recovery officials in western North Carolina are warning of a long-term wildfire threat after Hurricane Helene left behind hundreds of thousands of acres of downed timber. The state's timber economy is struggling due to aging logging operations, mill closures, and declining markets for low-grade wood products. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly are working to finalize the state budget, which includes a proposed 8% teacher pay raise and a 3% raise for state employees. The Catawba Nation's 2 Kings Casino is also at the center of a legal dispute over sovereign immunity and easements. [... more]

Dr. Amy Sherman joins the show to discuss vocational stewardship, the idea that our work is a means of seeking the common good and participating in God's redemptive mission in the world. She explains how this concept is not just about character and integrity, but also about the actual work itself and how it can reflect God's heart for justice, beauty, and restoration. [... more]

A task force in North Carolina is examining the state's gang violence strategy, focusing on the juvenile justice system and the root causes of violence. Meanwhile, a lawsuit in Jacksonville has led to the removal of onerous food truck regulations, and Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order prohibiting state employees from using inside information to make bets on prediction markets. [... more]

Cody Hobelman shares his personal journey of moving from accumulation to impact, setting a financial finish line, and experiencing transformation in his life and finances. He discusses how this shift in perspective has allowed him to live with greater purpose, clarity, and generosity, and how others can start their own journey by defining what is enough and taking the first step towards setting a financial finish line. [... more]

The discussion revolves around the ongoing Iran crisis, the upcoming World Cup, and the rise of anti-Semitism in the US, particularly within the Democratic Party. The conversation also touches on the debate between socialism and capitalism, the importance of success and innovation, and the complexities of the Middle East conflict, including Israel's role in the region. [... more]

Investors should consider looking beyond the U.S. markets for diversification and growth opportunities, as foreign stocks can offer broader growth potential and emerging markets are exciting due to their significant growth potential and rapidly rising standards of living. [... more]

Glenn Bell, a Marine Corps veteran, turned his hot dog stand into America's largest Mexican food chain, Taco Bell. He was inspired by Mexican takeout and wanted to create a fast food option for Americans. Bell's innovative approach to Mexican food, including his famous taco sauce, helped Taco Bell become a household name. [... more]

Aaron Rodgers' return to the Pittsburgh Steelers has sparked excitement, with Mike McCarthy's coaching and the team's roster setup potentially leading to a successful season. Meanwhile, in the NBA, the Spurs and Thunder are gearing up for the Western Conference Finals, with Victor Wembanyama and Shaquille Harrison facing off against the Spurs' strong defense. The Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo are also in the mix, while LeBron James' future with the Los Angeles Lakers remains uncertain. [... more]

An emergency fund acts as a financial shock absorber, providing stability and breathing room during uncertain times. Wise financial planning involves considering factors such as income stability, job loss, and medical emergencies when determining the right amount to save. Understanding Social Security and disability insurance can help individuals plan for retirement and navigate complex financial situations. Charitable giving through qualified charitable distributions can also be a strategic way to reduce taxable income and give back to the community. [... more]

Families are struggling with rising healthcare expenses, but there are alternatives to traditional health insurance. Medical cost sharing programs like Christian Healthcare Ministries allow individuals to share medical costs with a community of believers, providing a more affordable option. Meanwhile, listeners ask questions about Social Security, retirement planning, and investing, highlighting the importance of financial stewardship and making informed decisions about one's money. [... more]

Believers are exploring how their Christian faith shapes their financial decisions, particularly when it comes to investing. Luke Bolton, co-author of The Theology of Investing, discusses how a biblical perspective can influence investment choices, from avoiding harm to contributing to God's purposes for the world. [... more]

Faith-driven investors are seeking ways to align their investments with their values, and new tools are making it easier than ever. Mike Schnackenberg from Eventide Asset Management discusses the rise of faith-based ETFs and how they can help investors make a positive impact through their investments, while avoiding problematic areas that go against their Christian worldview. [... more]

The growing distrust in institutions across the United States is a pressing concern, with Americans questioning the credibility of the media, government, and academia. Experts argue that institutions must be directed towards a particular goal and maintain their root cause to foster trust. The erosion of trust has severe consequences, including the breakdown of social cohesion and the rise of conspiracy theories. As the country grapples with this issue, some propose a return to the principles of free markets and voluntary exchange, while others advocate for a more radical approach to address the perceived failures of the current system. [... more]

Navigating financial uncertainty with biblical principles can bring clarity and peace. By prioritizing spending, building emergency savings, and minimizing debt, individuals can prepare for uncertain times and trust in the Lord. A simple financial checkup and plan can help individuals stay grounded and avoid emotional decisions. [... more]

Rich Eisen and his guests discuss various sports topics, including the NFL, baseball, and hockey, while also touching on comedy, food hacks, and social media. Corey B joins the show to talk about his son's love for the New York Mets and his own experiences as a comedian and food enthusiast. The hosts also discuss the Ravens' latest draft pick and the potential for an overreaction in the sports world. [... more]

Harlan Akola joins the show to discuss how bringing home equity into financial plans can change everything, especially for retirees. He explains how home equity can function as a third bucket alongside income and investments, and how using it strategically can help preserve investment accounts longer. The conversation also touches on the importance of timing and the best way to use money, as well as the role of stewardship in managing financial resources. [... more]

The story of the Burger King in Mattoon, Illinois, is a tale of a local business standing up against a national brand. Gene Hoots, the owner, registered the name 'Burger King' in the state of Illinois, but the national chain sued him, claiming they had registered the name nationally. The court ultimately ruled in favor of the national chain, but allowed the Mattoon Burger King to operate within a 25-mile radius of the town. The story highlights the importance of local businesses and the challenges they face when competing with larger corporations. [... more]

Faith-based investors can use their ownership to influence companies for good through corporate engagement, a process of talking with company management to encourage better policies and practices on issues that align with their values. [... more]

Representative Carla Cunningham switches party affiliation from Democrat to unaffiliated, potentially impacting veto overrides in the North Carolina House. Meanwhile, a new infusion of federal disaster funding highlights progress and challenges in Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene. Governor Josh Stein's proposed budget would phase out the Opportunity Scholarship Program, affecting an estimated 60,000 students. The U.S. Postal Service's regulations on cluster box units are causing delays and adding costs to housing developments, making homes less affordable for many families. U.S. Representative Alma Adams was cleared of any wrongdoing after an investigation by the House Ethics Committee regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staffer. [... more]