North Carolina's state budget is facing a surplus, with lawmakers cautioning that rising costs and future tax cuts could strain finances. The North Carolina State Board of Elections certified the 2026 primary election results, with early voting up 25% from the last midterm primary. The Trump administration canceled two large offshore wind farm electrical generation leases, with Total Energies set to reinvest the money into LNG, oil, and other forms of electrical generation. North Carolina's community colleges are enrolling more students than at any point since before the COVID-19 pandemic, with full-time equivalent enrollment growing by 23%. A new labeling standard for meat, poultry, and egg producers, known as Product of the USA, was launched by the USDA, allowing producers to label their products as 'Made in the USA'. [... more]

Managing credit reports and scores requires understanding common myths and misconceptions. A certified credit counselor explains how to dispel these myths and achieve financial freedom through debt management and responsible credit use. [... more]

North Carolina continues to experience significant population growth, with a 1.3% growth rate, trailing only Texas and Florida. The state is also facing rising electricity costs due to the growth of data centers, particularly those using AI technology. A bipartisan group of governors, including North Carolina's Josh Stein, are pressuring the nation's largest regional electrical grid operator to lower prices. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is launching a nationwide freedom truck tour to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, with a stop in North Carolina. [... more]

This year's Thanksgiving holiday is expected to see a record number of travelers, with over 81.8 million people projected to hit the roads, skies, and seas. AAA reports that the most popular destinations include Orlando, Florida, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Miami, Florida. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted the 78th annual National Thanksgiving Turkey Pardoning Ceremony, where they spared the lives of two turkeys, Gobble and Waddle, from North Carolina. As the holiday season approaches, experts warn of potential data scams and cybersecurity threats, particularly on Black Friday. With gas prices remaining steady and car rentals 15% cheaper than last year, travelers are expected to have a relatively smooth journey. [... more]

A small group of North Carolina voters received incorrect letters about their voter registration status, but the state board of elections says it was an administrative error. The state is working to repair voter registration records, which will bring the state's voter rolls into compliance with federal and state law. Meanwhile, Charlotte has seen a high rate of property crime, and local leaders are being forced to address the issue. The city has seen a decrease in certain types of crime, but the public perception of safety remains a concern. The United States and South Korea have reached a trade deal that will lower tariffs on Korean auto imports, which will benefit North Carolina auto producers and consumers. Redistricting lawsuits are ongoing in North Carolina, and the state board of elections is working to resolve the issue before the December 1st deadline. The USDA is relocating its agricultural hubs to states like North Carolina, which has a thriving agricultural industry. [... more]

The conversation revolves around the potential deployment of National Guard troops in Memphis, Tennessee, and the controversy surrounding the elimination of DEI programs at the University of Memphis. Additionally, the hosts discuss tariff scams and the importance of being cautious when making online purchases. The show also features an interview with Grayson Groves, a local food blogger who reviews sandwich shops in the Mid-South. [... more]

North Carolina has regained the top position from CNBC as America's top state for business, with a business-friendly climate, strong economy, and favorable workforce development. The state's agricultural industry, which is the largest business in North Carolina, is a key driver of the state's economy. However, there are concerns about foreign ownership of land, particularly near military installations, and efforts are being made to limit and reform the process by which foreign entities can own U.S. farmland. [... more]

The dangers of buy now pay later programs and their impact on financial freedom are explored, with a focus on biblical wisdom for managing debt and making smart financial decisions. Experts discuss the importance of debt management, the benefits of faith-based investing, and how to navigate complex financial situations, including inheritance tax and title insurance fraud. [... more]

Ancient Rome's downfall was not due to a lack of diversity, but rather the absence of a shared identity and cultural values. Similarly, the United States' current cultural warfare, fueled by critical race theory and Marxism, threatens to destroy the country's singular shared identity based on liberty. [... more]

The discussion revolves around Amazon's decision to display tariff costs on their products, the impact of tariffs on the economy, and the need for tax cuts to boost economic growth. The conversation also touches on immigration and border security, with a focus on the efforts of the Trump administration to secure the border and the importance of state and local cooperation in immigration enforcement. Additionally, the topic of Congress's role in addressing the national debt and the need for spending cuts to balance the budget is discussed. [... more]

Credit reports and scores are often shrouded in myths, but understanding the truth can help individuals manage their debt and make informed financial decisions. Neely Simon, a certified credit counselor, dispels common misconceptions about credit reports and scores, providing valuable insights and advice for those seeking to improve their financial health. [... more]

The podcast discusses various topics including US politics, NATO and Ukraine, DEI and BlackRock, climate change, ESG, China, conservatism, European politics, taxation, and economics, with a focus on the intersection of politics, business, and social issues. [... more]

Christian financial advisors help individuals align their values with financial decisions and investments, using biblical wisdom to guide their choices. They discuss the impact of tariffs on the economy and provide guidance on investment strategies, generosity, and stewardship. [... more]

The automotive industry is facing new challenges with the rise of electric vehicles, including collision repair and driver monitoring systems. Auto repair shops must adapt to these changes, and consumers need to be aware of the potential issues and consequences of owning an electric vehicle. Additionally, auto maintenance and repair procedures are evolving, and tow truck drivers are receiving specialized training to handle EVs safely. [... more]

The American church is often producing consumers rather than disciples, with a focus on convenience and comfort rather than transformation and obedience. This is a result of a flawed gospel message that emphasizes individual salvation without self-denial and a lack of understanding of what it means to be a true disciple. The Bible calls believers to be holy vessels for God, to live for Him, and to honor His name, rather than seeking their own glory and comfort. [... more]

Aaron Judge's shot at the triple crown and Shohei Ohtani's incredible season have sparked a national conversation about the state of baseball, but the sport's decline over the last 15 years can be attributed to the rise of football and the mismanagement of the game, including the dominance of pitchers and the lack of variety in gameplay. [... more]

Harlan Akula discusses the benefits of reverse mortgages as a planning tool for seniors, including reducing Medicare premiums, covering long term care costs, and accessing home equity to stay in their homes. He also touches on the importance of retirement planning and debt management in this season of life. [... more]

The president's recent comments about shrinking cookies have sparked a conversation about shrinkflation, a term used to describe the practice of reducing the size of products while keeping prices the same. Critics argue that this is a response to inflation, where consumers are getting less value for their money. The Cookie Monster's observation about smaller cookies has been cited as an example of how people are noticing this trend. [... more]

A perfect storm may be brewing for debt with student loan payments resuming and inflation still running at 3.4 percent annually. Experts advise on debt management and retirement savings, emphasizing the importance of balancing competing priorities and maintaining proper liquidity. [... more]

Christian Healthcare Ministries offers a budget-friendly, biblical, and compassionate healthcare cost-sharing alternative that aligns with your Christian values. You can also save for your grandkids' college expenses with a 529 education savings plan, and consider contributing to a Roth IRA or SEP IRA for retirement. [... more]