Q-POINT
Q-Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, is a nonpartisan platform for candid conversations with policymakers, public officials, and changemakers shaping Maine and the nation. We go beyond the headlines, diving deep into policy discussions, current events, personal journeys, proposed legislation, and leadership philosophies. From community leaders to government officials and business executives, our guests share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the issues that matter most. Guests have included former Maine Governor Paul LePage, Congressman Jared Golden, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows as well as several Gubernatorial and Congressional Candidates - t...
“Leave Your Ego at the Door. Let’s Make Maine Great Again.” — David Jones on Teamwork Over Wedge Issues. Part ONE
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David Jones joins Q-Point Podcast to talk candidly about his campaign for governor — and his belief that teamwork, humility, and unity must replace ego in politics.
Drawing from decades in business and public service, Jones shares firsthand experiences on the campaign trail, his time as a national convention delegate, and what he’s learned about leadership from working alongside figures like Paul LePage and Donald Trump.
He describes what’s driving him to run: frustration with division, concern over energy costs and education, and a conviction that Maine’s best sol...
“We’ve Got It All Wrong in Augusta.” Libby on Spending and State Priorities - Part Two
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In this continued conversation, Senator Jim Libby discusses welfare expansion, accountability, and the urgent need to realign Maine’s budget priorities. He shares concerns about unbid nonprofit contracts, misuse of public funds, and the growth of dependency programs that he believes “are hurting, not helping” Mainers. Libby calls for stronger oversight at DHHS, transparency in spending, and a renewed focus on workforce participation to strengthen Maine’s long-term fiscal health.
Now airing weekends on VOM — The Voice of Maine 101.3, 103.9, and on the VOM app.
This episode of Q-Point Podcast is prereco...
“We Can’t Tax Our Way To Prosperity.” Senator Libby On Maine’s Economic Future - Part One
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Senator Jim Libby sits down with Q-Point Podcast to explain his decision to run under Maine’s Clean Elections system and share his views on how money shapes policy in Augusta. He breaks down budget growth and tax changes, outlining a four-year plan to reduce income taxes and expand the homestead exemption for property-tax relief. Libby shares concerns about MaineCare expansion and hospital reimbursement challenges, calls for regulatory stability to support small businesses, and details an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy that includes hydro, natural gas, biomass, and selective solar.
Now airing weeken...
“You Don’t Have to Take Politics as It’s Currently Served Up” — Rick Bennett’s Call for Reform
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In Part Two, Maine State Senator and Independent Gubernatorial Candidate Rick Bennett continues the conversation, turning to some of Maine’s most urgent challenges:
⚡ Energy Reform — Bennett warns that Maine’s solar subsidy program has left “$240 million of stranded costs onto ratepayers,” with most benefits going to out-of-state Wall Street firms. He argues these policies drive up rates, hurt small businesses, and stall electrification.
💊 Drug Trafficking — Bennett says cartel-level trafficking is “killing people literally” and pledges stronger enforcement while supporting prevention and recovery. He stresses the need...
“You Can’t Subsidize Your Way to 80,000 Houses” — Rick Bennett on Maine’s Housing Crisis
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Maine State Senator and independent gubernatorial candidate Rick Bennett explains why he left the GOP and why party structures have become an obstacle to real solutions. He says the parties have become a “net negative” and argues for a new path built on cross-partisanship, compromise, and transparency.
Bennett outlines three top priorities if elected governor: housing, energy, and schools. On housing, he highlights a shortfall of 80,000 homes by 2030 and warns, “You can’t subsidize your way to 80,000 houses.” He calls for cutting unnecessary regulations and enabling m...
“The Fentanyl…Was Visible to the Naked Eye on Her Teddy Bear.” — The Push for Stronger Protections PART TWO
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Deputy District Attorney Chelsea Lynds continues her candid conversation, recounting the harrowing “Teddy Bear” fentanyl overdose case and her push for LD 592, which would have created a felony version of endangering the welfare of a child. She reflects on political resistance in Augusta, the influence of lobbyists, stalled appeals, and her call for Maine to invest in young lawyers and expand access to legal education in northern Maine.
📻 Weekends on VOM (Voice of Maine) 101.3, 103.9, or stream on the VOM app — or listen anytime at QPointPodcast.com
"When I Started, an Average Caseload Was Around 180 Cases — Now We All Have Over 300.” — The Strain on Maine’s Justice System PART ONE
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Deputy District Attorney Chelsea Lynds of Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties discusses how Maine’s justice system is straining under the weight of rising felony cases, staffing shortages, and the defense crisis for indigent people. She explains how caseloads for prosecutors have doubled since 2019, the fallout from COVID and attorney shortages, bail reforms, and the challenge of “catch-and-release” dynamics with repeat offenders.
📻 Weekends on VOM (Voice of Maine) 101.3, 103.9, or stream on the VOM app — or listen anytime at QPointPodcast.com
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“Running for Sheriff Isn’t Just About a Title.” — Corey Bagley on Leadership, Transparency, and Vision - PART TWO
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In Part Two, Corey Bagley outlines his vision for the Sheriff’s Office and the leadership style he would bring if elected. He details why he believes cashless bail has failed, why he supports Maine’s yellow flag law and opposes a broader red flag law, and why transparency and accountability must be central to law enforcement.
Bagley highlights the importance of modernizing equipment with body and cruiser cameras, pursuing accreditation, and properly planning for K-9 unit...
“Cashless Bail Has Been a Disaster.” — Corey Bagley on Repeat Offenders and Accountability - PART ONE
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In Part One, Republican candidate for Hancock County Sheriff Corey Bagley shares his story of growing up in Hancock County, serving more than three decades in law enforcement, and building community ties through service and leadership. From his time patrolling Swans Island to supervising for the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, Bagley reflects on the challenges of policing in a county that sees both seasonal surges from Acadia National Park and the impact of fentanyl and cartel-linked trafficking.
He discusses the strain on the <...
“I Don’t Think It’s a Secret That I Was Definitely Thinking About It” — Reflecting on Governor Rumors - Part TWO
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In Part Two, Golden speaks candidly about rising crime and drug trafficking in Maine, including a shootout in Rumford that put police in the line of fire. He reflects on governor rumors, why he chose to remain in Congress, and the balance between public service and family life. Golden also touches on housing legislation, the influence of money in politics, and his independent approach to representing Maine.
📻 Now airing weekend mornings on Voice of Maine Radio – 103.9 FM Bangor / 101.3 FM Augusta – and on the VOM App.
🎧 After broadcast on QPointPo...
“I’m Not Willing To Sacrifice The Entire Maine Fishery” — Defending Lobstermen in the Right Whale Debate - Part ONE
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In Part One of our conversation with Congressman Jared Golden, we dive into foreign policy, Israel, and Maine’s iconic lobster industry. Golden weighs the risks of U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine, calls for conditional oversight on aid to Israel, and explains his concerns with the Biden administration’s approach to EV rebates. He speaks candidly about protecting Maine’s lobstermen from overreaching whale regulations, as well as the long-term fiscal challenges facing the nation, healthcare costs, and the need for smarter permitting processes.
📻 Now airing weekend mornings on Voice of...
“If You Can’t Behave on Our Waterfront, You’re Not Going to Be Here” - PART TWO
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Part Two continues the conversation with Brewer Police Chief Christopher Martin and Brewer Mayor Michelle Daniels. Chief Martin shares unfiltered views on safe injection sites, the rise of dangerous synthetic drugs, and increased northern border activity. Mayor Daniels discusses Brewer’s priorities in land use, zoning reform, and city planning, while also highlighting the pride and accountability residents bring to the riverwalk.
📅 Q Point Podcast now airs on weekends across the Voice of Maine — Saturdays at 6:00 AM and Sundays at 6:30 AM on 103.9 and 101.3 FM, or stream live anywher...
“Heaven Forbid if Somebody Could Not Be a Victim of a Crime That Week” - PART ONE
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In Part One, Brewer Police Chief Christopher Martin and Brewer Mayor Michelle Daniels join us in-studio to discuss pressing public safety challenges. Chief Martin recounts a recent child endangerment incident, shares candid views on bail reform, and highlights the cost of boarding inmates out of county. Mayor Daniels addresses the burden of rising jail costs on Brewer taxpayers and reflects on her family’s unique connection to the Penobscot County Jail.
📅 Q Point Podcast now airs on weekends across the Voice of Maine — Saturdays at 6:00 AM and Sundays at 6:30...
“I Met a Guy Named Jimmy Carter — He Thinks He’s Going to Be President” - Part TWO
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In Part Two, Maine’s broadcasting legend George Hale continues sharing highlights from his remarkable career. He recalls the moment he crossed paths with a young Jimmy Carter, years before Carter became President. Hale also reflects on his involvement in sports, his family’s athletic connections, and memorable moments in track and field.
📻 Airs on VOM – The Voice of Maine (101.3, 103.9) – Sundays at 6:30 AM. Listen from anywhere on the VOM App.
🎧 Drops after airing on QPointPodcast.com or wherever you stream.
This episode of Q Point Pod...
“I Lived a Double Life” — The Early Years That Shaped a Broadcasting Legend - Part ONE
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In Part One, broadcasting legend George Hale reflects on his remarkable journey. He shares memories of his childhood and the challenges of living what he describes as a “double life.” Hale recounts his years as a Navy medic, his transition into broadcasting, and the early days of building a career in Bangor, Maine.
📻 Airs on VOM – The Voice of Maine (101.3, 103.9) – Saturdays at 6:00 AM. Listen from anywhere on the VOM App.
🎧 Drops after airing on QPointPodcast.com or wherever you stream.
This episode of Q Point Podcast...
"Buckle Up on the Purse Strings" – Ben Midgley on Spending Cuts, Law Enforcement, and Education - Part TWO
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In Part Two, Midgley addresses some of Maine’s most pressing policy challenges. He outlines his plans to cut and reallocate state spending, oppose sanctuary city policies, and redirect resources to benefit communities statewide. Midgley discusses the threat of illegal Chinese marijuana grows, the importance of stronger cooperation between local law enforcement and federal agencies, and reforms to improve Maine’s education system, including boosting parental involvement and raising teacher pay. He also shares his positions on Second Amendment rights, red flag laws, and fixing child protection failures within DHHS. Drawing on his expe...
"It Doesn’t Have to Be Like This" – Ben Midgley’s Plan to Turn Maine’s Economy, Energy Costs, and Business Climate Around - Part ONE
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In Part One, Republican gubernatorial candidate Ben Midgley draws from his decades of business leadership — including co-founding Crunch Fitness and growing it to over 500 clubs, more than 3 million members, and 15,000 jobs nationwide — to outline a vision for revitalizing Maine’s economy. He discusses strategies to lower the cost of living, reduce energy costs, attract new businesses, and strengthen the state’s workforce. Midgley shares his views on balancing the budget, supporting rural communities, and building infrastructure that can sustain long-term growth. He also reflects on how his national business experience shapes his appr...
"We've Kind of Lost That Message of Fighting for Working Class People" – Baldacci & Jackson Continue the Conversation Part TWO
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Part Two continues the conversation with Senator Joe Baldacci and Troy Jackson, diving into Troy’s vision for Maine’s future. Topics include immigration policy and ICE cooperation, property tax reform, and the impact of out-of-state buyers on valuations. We also explore economic fairness for industries like logging, farming, and lobstering, municipal service consolidation, and state security measures. The episode closes with insights on leadership, listening to constituents, and building a campaign that connects with Mainers across the state.
Now airing on weekends on VOM, The Voice of Maine.
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"People Want Leaders That Listen and Adapt Their Thinking" – Baldacci & Jackson in Conversation - Part ONE
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In Part One of our conversation with Senator Joe Baldacci and former Senate President & gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson, we tackle Maine’s most pressing challenges—affordable housing, skyrocketing property taxes, and the closure of nursing homes across the state. We also address childcare shortages, workforce needs, rising energy costs, and how to create a stronger business climate. Education, technical training, and the future of passenger rail round out this engaging, solutions-focused dialogue.
Now airing on weekends on VOM, The Voice of Maine.
This episode of Q Point Podcast is p...
“Just Like That... It Was No Longer About the Merits of the Bill” — Rep. Steve Bishop on Optics Over Substance in Augusta
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In this episode of Q-Point Podcast, Rep. Steve Bishop returns to share what he’s learned after his first year in the Maine Legislature—and the surprises that came with it. Bishop dives into a candid conversation about how often optics overshadow real solutions at the State House, including LD 717, a bill designed to stop municipalities (and taxpayers) from paying drug testing fees—a bill that originated from a discussion in our studio between Sheriff Troy Morton and Rep. Bishop before bringing it to Augusta. What began with bipartisan suppor...
“You Can’t Pay for Bail with a Gift Card” — The Number One Complaint Flooding the AG’s Office PART TWO
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In Part Two, AG Frey discusses the growing landscape of fraud in Maine — from imposter scams that hit close to home to contractor deception and rising concerns about deed theft. He outlines how criminals target vulnerable residents, why consumer protection matters, and how the justice system is struggling to keep up. The conversation also covers Maine’s court backlog, the shortage of public defenders, and legislative efforts to license home contractors.
📻 Now airing weekends on VOM — The Voice of Maine — Saturday's at 6AM and Sunday;s at 6:30AM on 103.9 FM, 101.3 FM, and streami...
“It Really Has to Be About What Makes the Most Sense for Maine”: Inside the AG’s Decision-Making PART ONE
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In Part One, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey joins Corenna and David Quirk to break down how and why Maine gets involved in national litigation — including the opioid crisis and fights to protect federal funding. Frey explains his office’s nonpartisan mission, the unique way Maine selects constitutional officers, and reflects on the Laurel Libby censure case. He also shares the principles guiding his legal decisions and when he believes the state should act.
📻 Now airing weekends on VOM — The Voice of Maine — Saturday's at 6AM and Sunday's at 6:30AM on 103.9 FM, 101.3 F...
"It Was Both The Slowest and The Fastest Five Months of My Life"
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State Representative Laurel Libby returns to Q Point Podcast to reflect on a turbulent five-month stretch following her censure. “It was both the slowest and the fastest five months of my life,” she says, recounting the legal fight to restore her vote and the conversations she had with Mainers along the way.
In this in-studio interview, Libby discusses the atmosphere at the State House, staying connected to her district, and what the final hours of the legislative session looked like. She also shares her perspective on Maine’s $11.6 billion budget...
“It’s the Most Mysterious of All Voting Methods, and People Don’t Trust It.”
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In this episode of Q Point Podcast, Maine Assistant House Minority Leader Katrina Smith returns to the studio for an in-depth discussion on key legislation and issues shaping Maine's political landscape.
She shares her concerns about LD 1971, a bill limiting local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities, and calls ranked choice voting “the most mysterious of all voting methods.” Smith also discusses tax increases in the new $11.6 billion state budget, including new real estate transfer taxes and streaming service fees, and what she sees as an inc...
"You Wanna Fix the State? Show Me You’re Ready." – Poliquin on What It’ll Take to Step In
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🎙️ "You Wanna Fix the State? Show Me You’re Ready." – Poliquin on What It’ll Take to Step In
In his first appearance on Q-Point Podcast, former Congressman Bruce Poliquin joins us for a frank, wide-ranging discussion on the challenges facing Maine — and what it would take for him to run for governor.
Poliquin tackles it all: cartel-driven drug activity in Maine, illegal marijuana grows by Chinese nationals, hospital closures, soaring energy costs, overregulation, immigration enforcement, and the economic pressures squeezing Maine families and small businesses. H...
"We've Taken Our Hands Off The Wheel" - Bobby Charles on Maine's Future
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2026 Republican Gubernatorial candidate Bobby Charles sits down with Corenna and David Quirk on Q Point Podcast to talk about the critical issues he believes are steering Maine in the wrong direction — from fentanyl and drug trafficking to rising taxes, energy costs, and educational decline. He shares why he believes urgent action is needed and lays out his vision for restoring accountability, safety, and opportunity across the state.
Now airing Saturday mornings at 6 and Sunday mornings at 6:30 on VOM – The Voice of Maine.
Stream anytime at QPointPodcast.com o...
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows on Simplifying the Process: “I think you should have a one-stop shop in state government."
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In this episode of the Q-Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, Maine Secretary of State and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Shenna Bellows joins the conversation to discuss key issues central to her role and campaign.
Bellows touches on the rollout of Maine’s new license plates, including production challenges and safety considerations, and outlines her modernization efforts across services like voter registration and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). She also discusses her campaign goals: improving the state’s energy infrastructure, addressing high electricity costs, tackling the...
Why Paul LePage Is Running for Congress: “I Don’t Need the Job, But I’m Gonna Do the Job” Interviewed June 14, 2025
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In this episode of Q Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, former Maine Governor and Republican candidate for Maine's second congressional district, Paul LePage, shares his insights on a range of pressing issues. From the recent political violence in Minnesota and U.S. involvement in Israel-Iran conflict to immigration policies and the Maine lobster industry, Paul provides his perspective on the current political landscape. He discusses his strong stance on ICE enforcement, the federal government's role in healthcare, and the fentanyl crisis, while also touching on personal anecdotes and future plans...
Q-Point Podcast Hits the Airwaves Across Maine! Catch Us Weekend Mornings on the Voice of Maine.
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📢 Q-Point Podcast Hits the Airwaves Across Maine!
Tune in to Q-Point Podcast, now airing on VOM – The Voice of Maine:
🎙 Saturday mornings at 6:00 AM and Sunday mornings at 6:30 AM
We’re launching with a powerful debut weekend featuring two of Maine’s top political voices:
➡️ Saturday, June 28 – Former Maine Governor and Republican Congressional Candidate Paul LePage
➡️ Sunday, June 29 – Maine Secretary of State and Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Shenna Bellows
Each prerecorded podcas...
"That's The Stuff That Never Makes The Newspaper" Inside the Talk About Congress - PART II
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In Part II, Maine State Auditor Matt Dunlap joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about the path that led him into public service—and why he’s now seriously considering a run for Congress in Maine’s 2nd District.
He shares stories from the State House and his years as Secretary of State, where trust, fairness, and showing up were non-negotiable. From the behind-the-scenes process of ballot questions to the balancing act of party loyalty, Dunlap speaks candidly about the values that have shaped his career—and why the calls for him to r...
"We Are Very, Very Picky" - "Now That We've Seen It, We Can't Unsee It" PART I
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In part one of this in-depth conversation, Maine State Auditor Matt Dunlap joins us in studio to explain the recent audit findings that brought $2.1 billion in state contracts under scrutiny. He explains how his office flags risks, identifies weak spots in compliance, and works to strengthen accountability across state agencies. Using real-world examples, Dunlap gives an inside look at why these findings matter and how audits help improve government operations. And yes—he doesn’t shy away from the big question: is a campaign for Congress coming?
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"Loving Them to Death:" What Happens When Accountability Vanishes? PART II
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In Part II of our interview with Brewer Police Chief Christopher Martin, we continue the conversation on Maine’s drug crisis—this time turning to what happens after arrest. Chief Martin shares how bail reform, court backlogs, and limited treatment access are shaping outcomes for both individuals and communities.
He discusses the growing presence of organized drug trafficking, the logistical limits of emergency response, and how policy decisions—no matter how well-intended—can create ripple effects when systems are under strain. With a call for common-sense, bipartisan solutions, this conversation examines how poli...
"Loving Them to Death:" Are Permissive Drug Laws Helping or Hurting Maine? PART I
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Brewer Police Chief Christopher Martin joins Q-Point for a candid conversation on Maine’s escalating drug crisis and the controversial push to decriminalize hard drugs. Chief Martin discusses LD 1288, the national movement influencing Maine policy, and the resulting challenges faced by law enforcement. From shifting thresholds for trafficking charges to the spread of fentanyl and synthetic drugs, this episode explores how permissive laws may be compounding the crisis. Chief Martin also reflects on decades of drug enforcement history, the role of social justice advocacy, and why balanced investments in treatment, prevention, and education ar...
You Grew Up Watching Him -- Now Hear What He's Really Thinking
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Join hosts David and Corenna Quirk as they welcome the legendary Bill Green, an esteemed journalist known for 'Bill Green's Maine.' In this in-depth interview, Bill shares his experiences capturing the heart of Maine's culture, discussing his philosophy behind storytelling and journalism. Learn about his early career, the evolution of news, and the notable stories and people he's encountered. Hear Bill's thoughts on Maine's fiercely independent spirit, politics, and the importance of community engagement. Additionally, Bill talks about his current ventures, including his involvement with the Maine Sports Hall of Fame and...
Justice at Risk: The Impact of Representation Shortfalls in Maine
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In this compelling episode of the Q-Point Podcast, David and Corenna Quirk sit down with attorney Jeff Russell and Sheriff Troy Morton to unpack the mounting pressures on Maine’s criminal justice system. From the release of unrepresented defendants to the strain of overcrowded jails, the conversation reveals how legal gaps and resource shortages ripple through Penobscot County. Jeff and Sheriff Morton share on-the-ground insights about the need for more public defenders, smarter infrastructure, and stronger collaboration. It’s a candid, solutions-focused dialogue about how Maine can better uphold justice—and common sense.
Su...
Maine’s Path Forward: Shawn Moody on Business, Policy, and Politics
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In this episode of Q-Point, hosts Corenna and David Quirk sit down with Shawn Moody, a prominent Maine business leader and former gubernatorial candidate. They explore the effects of Maine's paid family leave program, rising electricity costs, and the challenges facing local businesses. Moody highlights the value of trade careers over traditional four-year degrees and stresses the need for stronger mental health support. The discussion also delves into Maine’s evolving political landscape, including his potential 2026 gubernatorial run. The episode wraps up with a tribute to the late Bob Filanowski and insights on th...
“God Called Me That Day to Start House in the Woods” — Honoring Sgt. Joel House and Serving Veterans Nationwide
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In this moving episode of Q Point Podcast, Corenna and David Quirk speak with Paul House, co-founder of House in the Woods in Lee, Maine. Created in memory of his son, Sgt. Joel House, this retreat has welcomed thousands of veterans, active service members, and Gold Star families from across the country — offering healing, camaraderie, and community in Maine’s outdoors.
Paul shares how House in the Woods began, the role of volunteers and sponsors, and the powerful impact of bringing veterans and families together. From...
Inside the State House: Katrina Smith on Maine’s Key Issues
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*Interviewed on February 10, 2025.
In this episode of the Q-Point Podcast, hosts David and Corenna Quirk sit down with Assistant House Minority Leader Katrina Smith to discuss some of Maine’s most pressing challenges. They examine the Maine Department of Education's decision not to enforce a gender executive order due to conflicts with the Maine Human Rights Act, as well as the potential loss of federal funding and its effects on local sports. The conversation also explores how public pol...
Carroll Conley: Championing Partnerships in Faith and Policy
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In this episode of Q-Point - Carroll Conley, former executive director of the Christian Civic League, discusses his journey from being a music director to leading the organization. He shares challenges faced in rebuilding trust within government and churches, key achievements such as fostering coalitions, and advocacy efforts like the dental therapist bill. Conley also talks about his future plans to work on national issues like addiction, foster care, and human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of state-church collaboration and civil dialogue. He highlights a balanced approach to immigration and expresses optimism for continued...
Maine Rep. Laurel Libby: Tackling Paid Leave, Tax Burdens, and Voter ID
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Hosts David and Corenna Quirk sit down with Maine State Representative Laurel Libby to explore key policy challenges facing the state. They discuss the upcoming public hearing on the Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave Program, its economic impact on businesses, and LD 406, a bill seeking its repeal. The conversation also examines Maine’s high tax burden, budget shortfall, and rising business costs, along with concerning declines in educational test scores. Additional topics include a voter ID initiative designed to ensure only citizens vote and a proposal for the popular election of Maine's co...
