Carolina Newsmakers

Carolina Newsmakers

di Don Curtis

NC Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey joins Don Curtis for a wide-ranging conversation on the issues shaping the state’s insurance landscape. Causey discusses his recent letter to President Trump urging him not to pardon Greg Lindberg and explains the concerns behind that request. He also breaks down the stability of North Carolina’s insurance market, disaster preparedness and response, efforts to combat insurance fraud and protections for senior citizens.

Special Tribute to Former Governor Jim Hunt

Carolina Newsmakers presents a special tribute to former North Carolina Governor Jim Hunt, reflecting on his life, leadership and lasting impact on the state. The program includes conversations with former Governor Pat McCrory, long-time aide and communications director Gary Pearce, veteran political strategist Carter Wrenn and former Wilson Times editor Alex Keown. Together, they share personal stories and insights into Governor Hunt’s legacy in North Carolina politics, education and public service.

NC Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley

Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley joins Don Curtis to discuss North Carolina's latest ranking in workplace safety as well as the steps his department is taking to reduce workplace accidents and protect employees.

Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus at NC State University

Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University, joins Don Curtis to discuss the impact of tariffs on the NC economy as well as the latest interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Walden also predicts record job growth in North Carolina for 2026.

Travis Fain, CTF Communications

Travis Fain from CTF Communications breaks down North Carolina’s top stories—from health care costs and traffic safety to political races, innovation and the state of journalism—in this week’s Carolina Newsmakers.

Andy Ellen, President of the NC Retail Merchants Association

Andy Ellen, President and General Counsel of the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, discusses the retail and economic outlook for 2025, key legislative issues, technology’s role in shaping consumer habits and what’s ahead for the state’s retailers in 2026.

Wayne Goodwin, former NC Insurance Commissioner

Former North Carolina Insurance Commissioner and DMV leader Wayne Goodwin joins Carolina Newsmakers to discuss DMV reform, insurance challenges, election changes and the importance of civility and public service,

Thomas Stith, CEO of Michael Thomas Group & Fellow at UNC Kenan Institute

Thomas Stith, CEO of The Michael Thomas Group & Fellow at UNC Kenan Institute, joins Don Curtis to talk about leadership, entrepreneurship, education and the values that have guided his life and service to North Carolina.

Allen Thomas, N.C. Restaurant & Lodging Association

Allen Thomas, President & CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association, discusses how the hospitality industry fuels economic growth, tackles workforce challenges and shapes North Carolina’s future as a premier destination.

Tom Jensen, Public Policy Polling

Tom Jensen, Director of Public Policy Polling, joins Don Curtis to break down North Carolina’s 2025 elections, redistricting battles, the U.S. Senate race, the federal shutdown debate and how tariffs are shaping voter attitudes.
5 di 59