Stanley Cup Frenzy, Budget Blues, and the Atrium–WakeMed Showdown

This week, we start with Raleigh's Stanley Cup fever before diving into state politics and budget delays that are stalling lawmakers. The episode examines rising healthcare costs for retirees, the controversial Atrium–WakeMed merger and its impact on competition and patient bills. Also covered: disputes over early voting sites at Western Carolina University, community vs. campus tensions, plus lighter culture segments on Taylor Swift, Toy Story 5, concert ticket prices, and mental health concerns.