WPTF Morning News

Maria Intscher-Owrang, co-founder of Simplifyber, on the Raleigh startup reinventing sustainable manufacturing

Maria Intscher-Owrang, co-founder of Simplifyber, joins Tony to discuss how the Raleigh-based startup is developing bio-based materials molded directly from natural fibers, dramatically reducing production waste, carbon emissions and reliance on plastics while attracting major brand partnerships and new investment, and what it means for the Triangle's growing reputation as a hub for climate innovation.

Bob Passmore and Rebecca Weast on keeping teen drivers safe during the 100 Deadliest Days

Bob Passmore, department vice president of personal lines at the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, and Rebecca Weast, senior research scientist at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, join Tony to discuss teen driver safety as the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day begins, a period when teen traffic fatalities spike by nearly 26%. The two share practical steps parents can take now, from setting driving agreements to choosing safer vehicles and managing insurance costs.

Greg Oates, director of AI advocacy at GuideGeek, on using AI to plan summer travel

Greg Oates, director of AI advocacy at GuideGeek, joins Tony to discuss how artificial intelligence has transformed travel planning ahead of a major summer season featuring the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations. Oates explains how travelers can use AI tools to save money, customize itineraries and get the most out of their trips even with rising gas and flight prices.

Wendy Payne and Marie on the inaugural Cary Garden Tour and the Cary Woman's Club

Wendy Payne and Marie join Tony to discuss the inaugural Cary Garden Tour running May 30-31, 2026, featuring exclusive access to 13-14 private gardens, historic sites and classic car displays headquartered at the Page-Walker Arts and History Center in Cary. The event supports local nonprofits through ticket sales and is presented by the 90-year-old Cary Woman's Club. Tickets and information are available at carygardentour.org [http://carygardentour.org]

Matthias Berninger, executive vice president of public affairs, sustainability and safety at Bayer, on a new report about science misinformation

Matthias Berninger, executive vice president of public affairs, sustainability and safety at Bayer, joins Tony to discuss findings from the new Science Under Siege survey, which found 80% of Americans blame social media for spreading health and science misinformation yet continue to use it as their primary source. Berninger discusses how the generational trust gap is growing and what Bayer's Science Delivers initiative is doing to help Americans spot misinformation and support evidence-based science.