Is Woke Dead?

Energy Fraud and Attempted Murder

Joseph Backholm and Ashley Vaughan unpack two stories raising serious questions about power, accountability, and political ethics. First, they examine the allegations surrounding an energy company accused of a billion-dollar fraud scheme and its connections to a North Carolina state senator. Then they turn to the federal case against former FBI Director James Comey, asking whether his controversial "8647" social media post was protected political speech or something more serious. From government transparency to prosecutorial discretion, this episode explores where politics ends and the law begins.

Is Roy Cooper Really A Moderate?

Is Roy Cooper really the moderate his campaign portrays him to be? This week, Joseph Backholm and Ashley Vaughan examine the former governor's new U.S. Senate campaign, comparing his "football, church, and common sense" messaging with his record on public safety, parental rights, abortion, women's sports, and gender ideology. They also discuss the growing problem of youth sports gambling and why parents should pay attention as betting becomes increasingly normalized among teenagers. Join the conversation as they look beyond the campaign ads to explore the policies, priorities, and worldview shaping these important issues.

The True Meaning of Freedom in Society

In this episode, we delve into the true meaning of freedom, its biblical and American foundations, and how misunderstandings are fueling societal issues like violence, political unrest, and cultural conflicts. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on how virtue, self-control, and family are essential to preserving freedom.

What's Really in North Carolina's New State Budget?

Ashley Vaughan and Joseph Backholm unpack North Carolina's newly signed state budget and explore what it reveals about the state's priorities. From funding pregnancy resource centers and teacher pay raises to tax cuts, AI in education, religious instruction, and parental rights in schools, they examine some of the budget's biggest highlights through a biblical lens. Along the way, they discuss what makes for wise government spending, where Christians can reasonably disagree, and why budgets are ultimately moral documents that reflect what a society values.

Girls' Sports Just Scored a Major Victory

The Supreme Court delivered a landmark victory for women and girls by allowing states to keep boys out of girls' sports—but the justices also missed an opportunity to address the growing problems created by birthright citizenship. Joseph and Ashley break down both rulings, explain what they mean for North Carolina, and discuss why objective truth must remain the foundation of good public policy. They also challenge the growing belief that personal desires should determine law, arguing that society ultimately has to choose between reality and feelings.