North Carolina Business Minds

Meet Cindy Eckert — serial entrepreneur, pharmaceutical innovator, and self-described "rebel with receipts." In this episode, Lauren Onus of the Triangle Business Journal sits down with the woman behind the Pink Pill to trace her remarkable journey from perpetual new kid (including a childhood stint in Fiji) to billion-dollar exit. Cindy shares how she left a dream job at Merck to chase innovation at smaller companies, ultimately founding Slate Pharmaceuticals in men's sexual health before pivoting to tackle a glaring gap: zero FDA-approved options for women's sexual health. She opens up about the cultural resistance she faced bringing the first-ever female sexual health drug to market, the billion-dollar sale to Valeant, the fight to get the product back when the buyer failed to launch it, and the grit it took to start over from scratch. Cindy also discusses her work with the Pink Ceiling to improve access to capital for women-led startups in STEM, the new documentary The Pink Pill: Sex, Drugs, and Who Has Control, and why she believes science cures bias.Show Links:https://www.thepinkpillfilm.com/https://www.paramountpressexpress.com/paramount-plus/shows/the-pink-pill-sex-drugs-who-has-control/releases/?view=112407-paramount-sets-march-6-north-american-premiere-for-award-winning-documentary-the-pink-pill-sex-drugs-who-has-controlhttps://www.instagram.com/thepinkpillfilm/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/cindypinkceo/?hl=enhttps://addyi.com/Addyi DisclaimerADDYI, flibanserin, is for women under 65 with low sexual desire disorder who have not had problems with low sexual desire in the past, and who have low sexual desire that is troubling to them no matter the type of sexual activity, situation, or sexual partner. The low sexual desire is not due to a medical or mental health problem, problems in the relationship or medicine or other drug use. ADDYI is not for men or to enhance sexual performance. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is increased if you drink 1-2 standard alcoholic drinks close in time to your ADDYI dose. Wait at least 2 hours after one to two drinks before taking ADDYI at bedtime and skip your dose if you drink three or more drinks that evening. If you take certain prescription, OTC or herbal medications, or have liver problems, the risk of low blood pressure and fainting increases and you should not take ADDYI. Do not take if you are allergic to any of ADDYI’s ingredients. Sometimes serious sleepiness can occur. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and dry mouth. See PI and Boxed Warning at addyi.com/pi

In this conversation, Adam Sperling, executive director of the Truist Championship, tells Erik Spanberg about the return of Charlotte’s annual PGA Tour event after stepping aside for the PGA Championship in 2025. Sperling came to Charlotte in 2018 to run the Presidents Cup, played here in 2022. That event broke sales and revenue records. Now, Sperling oversees the Tour’s annual event at Quail Hollow Club, with a new title sponsor and a new owner. 

Winston-Salem-based grocer returns to Charlotte with six stores, plans new Triangle locations. CEO reflects on Carolinas' snowmageddon, talks competition, mulls potential disruption from Buc-ee's.

Lauren Ohnesorge sits down with Jason Caplain, general partner and co-founder of Bull City Venture Partners, to trace his journey from 80th employee at Red Hat to one of the Triangle's most established venture capitalists. Jason shares how a $5 million first fund — raised during the dot-com crash — produced three IPOs, including two billion-dollar companies led by Goldman Sachs. They dig into what makes a great founder (hint: it's not the pitch deck), why the unicorn hype should concern you, how AI is reshaping both startups and VC, and what North Carolina can do to strengthen its entrepreneurial ecosystem. Jason also opens up about the current exit market challenges, the state of seed-stage investing in the Southeast, and why 80% of capital raised by NC startups comes from outside the state

In this conversation, former Charlotte Mayor Richard Vinroot tells Erik Spanberg about his lifetime of leadership roles, from Eagle Scout to mayor, with an interval on Dean Smith’s UNC Chapel Hill basketball team. Vinroot, an attorney by trade, still goes to his office five days a week, lending counsel to younger peers and tackling nonfiction histories and biographies at the prodigious clip of one book per week. Vinroot, a moderate Republican who twice lost in bids to become governor, sees education as the most important issue for Charlotte — and the nation.

Chef Freddy Lee runs nine restaurants across two states. His newest will open this summer, not in a major metro, but in a small town made famous by Andy Griffith. He talks industry headwinds, and offers a stunning insight on chefs' own dining habits.

In this conversation, Jim Segrave, CEO and founder of flyExclusive, shares his journey from his early days in aviation to building a successful business in the private jet industry. After selling a previous company to Delta Air Lines, Segrave's flyExclusive has seen rapid growth as the business leaders turn to private aircraft in the wake of the pandemic.

In this episode, Chris William reflects on the journey of creating and sustaining the Carolina Business Review over three decades. He discusses the challenges of gaining buy-in across two states, the importance of community engagement and the evolution of the show amidst economic changes. Chris shares insights on navigating the complexities of public broadcasting, maintaining a small business and the impact of significant economic events on the program. He concludes with thoughts on the future of media and the legacy of the show.

North Carolina is facing a critical housing shortage with an estimated 800,000 units needed statewide. As major employers like Toyota, Boom Supersonic and JetZero bring tens of thousands of jobs to the state, the question becomes urgent: Where will workers live? Jon Hardister, president of the Triad Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition and former six-term state legislator, joins host Lloyd Whittington to discuss the economic and social stakes of the housing shortage. They explore why the average first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, up from 28 decades earlier, and whether efforts to address density and development challenges are likely to resurface in the General Assembly after stalling amid opposition last year. This conversation reveals how North Carolina's housing shortage could threaten economic development — and what stakeholders are doing now to solve it before it's too late.

amie Ledford, president of Golf Pride, shares insights into the evolution of the brand, his career journey from a small town to leading a global golf company, and the importance of innovation and corporate culture. He discusses the challenges faced by the golf industry, including geopolitical issues and the impact of the pandemic on demand. Ledford emphasizes the significance of personal connections in business and the philosophy behind Golf Pride's success, focusing on the confidence and experience of golfers.

In this conversation, PSA Airlines CEO Dion Flannery tells Erik Spanberg about the company’s headquarters relocation to Charlotte — a move consummated during a challenging time for the airline and the industry. Flannery and his colleagues endured a fatal crash in January 2025 and, later, a government shutdown that rattled air travel across the country. Despite those headwinds, Flannery explains why he's bullish on the year ahead.

As universities face enrollment challenges and questions about the value of a college degree, Wente discusses Wake Forest's position and strategies needed for today's higher ed challenges.

Seven years into leading the N.C. Museum of Art, Valerie Hillings is looking to broaden the Raleigh museum's reach. Here, she speaks with Dane Huffman of the Triangle Business Journal for the next edition of North Carolina Business Minds

North Carolina’s office market is in a new phase, one defined by strong absorption, renewed corporate expansion and rapid leasing in Charlotte’s top towers. CoStar’s Chuck McShane joins NC Business Minds to explain why 2025 became the turning point, how renovated buildings are gaining traction and what’s ahead.

From a merger to a groundbreaking dyslexia academy to a complex 130,000-square-foot wellness facility, Elon's president reveals timelines and strategies behind the university's major expansion projects in the Triad and Charlotte.

The Triangle Business Journal’s Dane Huffman sits down with North Carolina Commissioner of Labor, Luke Farley. In this episode, Commissioner Farley shares the story behind his photo in every elevator, discusses the state’s booming growth, and explains how the Department of Labor balances safety, economic development, and worker protection. From elevator inspections and amusement ride safety to wage and hour laws, Farley offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities facing North Carolina’s workforce. Whether you’re an employer, employee, or just curious about the “man in the elevator,” this episode delivers insights on accountability, public service, and the future of work in the Tar Heel State.

Shelly Cayette-Weston, the Charlotte Hornets’ president of business operations, started her marketing career with Caesars Entertainment and then shifted to pro basketball. Now with her third NBA team, Cayette-Weston is leading a revamped front office that is presiding over major arena renovations and a $150 million training center now under construction. She speaks to Erik Spanberg about those and other changes in the franchise’s business.

From hockey to baseball to women's basketball, learn how Zawyer Sports is bringing new pro teams to cities across North Carolina and attracting high-profile investors along the way.

In this conversation, Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon discusses her journey into higher education and her current role at North Carolina Central University. She highlights the challenges and successes in enrollment growth, financial stability, and the introduction of innovative academic programs. Chancellor Dixon emphasizes the importance of community partnerships and strategic planning for the future of the university, aiming for academic excellence and student success.

Host Erik Spanberg interviews historian Tom Hanchett about Charlotte’s efforts to address spiraling affordable housing needs and how those efforts offer lessons across the state and nation. Hanchett explains the myths and realities of 80 years of evolving housing policies.

NASCAR legend Richard Childress shares his journey from a $20 race car to an empire spanning racing, manufacturing, vineyards, and bull riding. Could bourbon be the next frontier?

Lauren Ohnesorge sits down with Kendal Bowman, North Carolina President for Duke Energy, to explore her journey from law school to leading in the energy sector. They discuss North Carolina's booming data center industry, the transformative role of AI at Duke Energy, and the future of clean energy in the state.

In this conversation, Chris Skibinski shares his extensive experience in the industrial real estate sector, discussing the evolution of the Charlotte market, the impact of major players like Amazon and Macy's, and the trends shaping the future of distribution and logistics. He highlights the importance of infrastructure, population growth, and investor perspectives in driving the industrial market, while also addressing challenges such as land availability and vacancy rates. The discussion concludes with reflections on the future of industrial real estate and the ongoing transformation within the industry.

In this episode of NC Business Minds, Bobby Long, co-chairman of the Piedmont Triad Charitable Foundation and a key figure in the Wyndham Championship, discusses the intersection of golf, business and leadership, reflecting on the late Jim Melvin and JetZero’s Co-Founder and CEO Tom O’Leary as examples. Long also remembers the influence and advocacy of the late Jimmy Buffett, whose role in Margaritaville at the Wyndham has set the stage for the Triad to differentiate itself on live music by nurturing emerging talent.

What does it take to walk away from a stable career and build a bank from scratch—especially when the odds (and the regulators) are stacked against you? In this episode, Lauren Ohnesorge sits down with Larry Barbour, CEO of North State Bank, for a candid conversation about risk, resilience, and the power of relationships in business. From the eureka moments that shaped his career to weathering the Great Recession and the rise of AI, Larry shares hard-won lessons on leadership, community, and why faith in the future is the key to thriving in uncertain times. Whether you’re a business owner, a banking insider, or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Brought to you by Elon University.

Sharon Gaber’s vision for UNC Charlotte includes more growth uptown, in A.I. — and beyond.Brought to you by Elon University.

New Toyota Battery president, Don Stewart, talks factory growth, hiring, military background.Brought to you by Elon University.

North Carolina Chief Information Officer, Teena Piccione, joins to talk about how she is changing digital use and what she expects in the coming years. Brought to you by Elon University.

Steady as he goes: How Jim Phillips and the ACC have navigated the roiling waters of college sports.Brought to you by Elon University.

UnitedHealthcare’s Bachmann defends Medicaid funding, reflects on killing of CEO, leads as UNCG trustee. Brought to you by Elon University.

Richard Boyd pivoted from law school to a life in tech. Now, he's one of the leading voices on the coming impact of artificial intelligence.Brought to you by Elon University.

Exciting insights from our recent conversation with Peter Pappas on the transformative landscape of real estate development. Discover how strategic investments and long-term visions are shaping better communities. Tune into Peter’s insights, including the innovative Pappas Real Estate Development Program at NC State, aimed at nurturing future leaders in the field. Brought to you by Elon University.

CEO Scott Baxter talks tariffs, acquisition, innovation and Triad’s sweet spot as Triangle, Charlotte get pricey.Brought to you by Elon University.

Sheila Mikhail was shocked to find that mammograms can miss cancer if a woman has dense breasts — and is pushing for changes to protect North Carolina women. Brought to you by Elon University.

Charlotte real estate executive Johnny Harris has spent a lifetime in golf’s most hallowed halls — and used that rarefied knowledge to make his home course a landmark in the sport.Brought to you by Elon University.

Dr. Ebony Boulware of Advocate Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist calls research threat ‘devastating’ and addresses expansion in Charlotte, future in Winston-Salem, physician shortage and the possibility of three-year med degrees.Brought to you by Elon University.

From tech entrepreneur to sports magnate: A one-on-one with Steve Malik, the serial founder behind the Carolina Courage soccer team.Brought to you by Elon University.

Banker’s Encore: PhilanthropyHow are banking and philanthropy alike? Cathy Bessant, CEO of the Foundation For The Carolinas, sees a lot more similarities between the two than you might think — and she has the first-hand experience to know.Brought to you by Elon University.

Aviation leader on how Triad and NC are poised as drones, eVTOLs advance, with a near-miss on Joby as a case in point.Brought to you by Elon University.

From intern to President of the Carolina Hurricanes, Doug Warf has an interesting story to tell.Brought to you by Elon University.

NC Business Minds talks to Catapult CEO Cheryl Richards about the rapidly shifting dynamics of work — and how you should be managing through it.Brought to you by Elon University.

With a history ranging from the oil business to Bojangles, this finance analyst turned developer talks industrial, residential outlook across North Carolina. Brought to you by Elon University.

In an interview with the Triangle Business Journal, Chancellor Lee Roberts discusses why UNC is looking at a new basketball arena, potential changes along Franklin Street, and the impact of new football coach Bill Belichick.Brought to you by Elon University.

CBJ/NC Business Minds goes inside the business of running — and expanding — one of the nation’s 10 busiest airports.Brought to you by Elon University.

Here's what North Carolina's insurance commissioner says is needed to curb auto rate hikes, and what can be done to mitigate climate change risks, health insurance clashes.Brought to you by Elon University.

With five airlines under his belt – from WestJet to JetBlue -  serial entrepreneur David Neeleman’s latest adventure is Breeze Airways, an ultra low-cost carrier rapidly expanding in the U.S. On the NC Business Minds podcast, he lets us in on the secret to starting an airline during a pandemic - and what’s next for Breeze.Brought to you by Elon University.

CBJ/NC Business Minds goes inside the business of recruiting and building tourism-friendly sporting events with the top executive of the Charlotte Sports Foundation.Brought to you by Elon University.

Will hurricane recovery hinder projects across the state? Is improved rail, whether to Virginia or Winston-Salem, on a fast track? When might future I-685, I-777, and wider interstates become reality? Mike Fox, chair of the NCDOT and CEO of the Piedmont Triad Partnership, addresses those and other questions on our NC Business Minds podcast.

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