The Foxfire Dispatch

Host Liz Purvis discusses what it means to run outside the two-party system with Jason Brown, an independent progressive candidate for Congress in Virginia’s 4th District, a Democratic-leaning seat spanning urban/suburban areas like Richmond and rural communities farther south. Brown argues reform within a capitalist two-party framework can’t deliver systemic change and says the system prioritizes private profit over public good. His core platform is abolishing ICE and pursuing “affordability for all,” including housing, education, healthcare, universal pre-K, and public transit, while criticizing spending on war and proposed ICE detention expansion. He describes voter frustration with “lesser of two evils” politics, emphasizes organizing working-class power, and shares campaign realities without party infrastructure, including ballot-access signature gathering and relying on small-dollar donations while rejecting corporate PAC and AIPAC money.

Host Liz Purvis welcomes guest host Coach LeVon Barnes of Alamance County, a 23-year educator and working-class father running for a North Carolina General Assembly House district 64, to discuss why he entered politics and what he learned from past campaigns.We break down key North Carolina primary results and dynamics, including Alamance county commissioner and sheriff races, Durham’s Congressional District 4 primary between Valerie Foushee and Nida Allam (and Allam’s concession), new Durham school board members, and debates over severe public education underfunding and how counties are forced to fill gaps. We also discuss Roy Cooper’s Senate run, the importance of judicial races like Justice Anita Earls, surprising statewide outcomes, the razor-thin Phil Berger–Sam Page Republican contest, Democratic primary upsets of incumbents who overrode vetoes, and how turnout, organizing, and down-ballot investment shape November. Find LeVon at LeVonforNC.com

Host Liz Purvis welcomes Kyah Creekmore, a 24-year-old Democratic candidate running in North Carolina’s 5th Congressional District primary to take on 20-year Republican incumbent Virginia Foxx. Creekmore describes the gerrymandered, sprawling 10-county district—largely rural and Appalachian but containing major student populations across campuses like UNC Greensboro, NC A&T, and App State—and argues those students are a growing political force. The conversation covers recent student organizing and marches after the State Board of Elections removed campus polling locations and Sunday voting, which Creekmore frames as youth and Black and brown voter suppression. He contrasts Gen Z’s realities—low wages, high rents, rising tuition, student debt, and weak job prospects—with older, wealthier political leadership, and emphasizes building a youth movement and mobilizing disengaged voters through lived-experience messaging. The episode ends with a lightning round and ways to support the campaign at KyahCreekmore.org, with Liz noting the race’s importance for rebuilding political power in gerrymandered communities.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis interviews Kate Compton Barr, the first Republican candidate to be featured on the show. Barr, a behavioral scientist and advocate for democracy, is running in the March Republican Primary for North Carolina's 14th Congressional District. Known for her radical transparency and previous 'can't win' campaign against gerrymandering, Barr discusses her motivations, experiences, and strategies for challenging incumbent Congressman Tim Moore. The conversation also delves into broader topics such as housing affordability, economic security, and the unique challenges of running as a progressive Republican in a gerrymandered district. Tune in for a candid and insightful discussion about political representation, voter empowerment, and the need for systemic change.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, Liz Purvis is joined by Rebekah Whilden, who returns as a co-host to discuss their political wishlist for 2026, focusing on North Carolina's future. They delve into topics such as fair representation, access to opportunities, and significant upcoming elections, including Roy Cooper's Senate race and Anita Earls' Supreme Court re-election. The conversation also covers structural issues in North Carolina politics and the importance of infrastructure and storytelling. The episode wraps up with a fun discussion on the finale of Survivor Season 49 and the anticipation for Season 50. Tune in for an engaging mix of serious political discourse and light-hearted reality TV talk, emphasizing the importance of imagination and hope in shaping the future.For more on Carolina Forward, visit https://carolinaforward.org/.

In this special New Year episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis offers a reflective and insightful look into 2026 through the lens of numerology and tarot. Liz explores the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune, the Magician, and the Fool cards, considering their relevance to our political and social landscape. Emphasizing the importance of agency, courage, and responsibility, she encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty and push back against cynicism. The episode concludes with a reading of Ada Limón's poem 'In Praise of Mystery: A Poem for Europa' reinforcing the themes of mystery and collective responsibility. Join Liz for a thoughtful start to the new year and a call to light small sparks of change.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis welcomes Rebekah Whilden, the Executive Director of Carolina Forward, for an insightful and candid conversation. Rebekah discusses her journey and the instrumental role Carolina Forward has played in advancing pro-democracy values and policies that serve all North Carolinians. The episode also delves into the significance of storytelling in political advocacy, the unique challenges of organizing in a purple state like North Carolina, and how to bridge the urban-rural divide. Rebekah shares her reflections on balancing non-partisanship while staying true to progressive values, the importance of coalition building, and innovative ways to engage with communities through social media. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on building durable power through narrative and community-centric approaches.For more on Carolina Forward, visit CarolinaForward.org.

In this eye-opening episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis and guest-host Sydnie Hutchinson, the second vice chair of the Gaston Dems and a candidate for the NC House, dive deep into a shocking story of political corruption in Stanley, a small town in Gaston County, NC. They discuss how former mayor Steven Denton manipulated the system, securing a highly paid town manager position for himself and gerrymandering the town to maintain control. Through detailed recounts and personal experiences, this episode exposes the lengths to which some will go to maintain power, and the community’s efforts to reclaim transparency and democracy. Tune in for this special bonus episode to hear how residents are fighting back against entrenched corruption.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz welcomes Paul Barringer, a Democratic candidate for North Carolina's 13th Congressional District. Barringer, a lawyer and public servant, discusses his decision to run for office, shaped by a desire to bring grounded, ethical leadership to a district dealing with rapid urbanization and rural roots. He further elaborates on his career in health law and his work within the prison system. The conversation covers Barringer's views on various policy issues including healthcare reform, immigration, common-sense gun laws, and the national debt, emphasizing his pragmatic and collaborative approach to governance. Liz and Paul also explore the challenges and opportunities of campaigning in a centrist district, concluding with a fun rapid-fire segment to get to know the candidate better.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis chats with Sydnie Hutchinson, a paralegal turned political candidate running for the North Carolina House of Representatives in District 108. Sydnie shares her motivation for entering politics, rooted in her extensive experience in the legal field, and discusses her community-focused platform which emphasizes affordable housing, strong public schools, accessible childcare, and healthcare. Tune in to hear about Sydnie’s grassroots campaign strategies, the challenges of running for office in a gerrymandered district, and the power of community organizing in Gaston County. Sydnie also reflects on her personal journey across different states and her return to North Carolina, underscoring the importance of local engagement and policy impact on everyday lives.

In this special bonus episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis from The Foxfire Dispatch and CJ Robinson and Adrian Brakeley from The Left of Old North reflect on the outcomes of the recent North Carolina municipal elections. We celebrate significant Democratic wins in various races, discuss the strategies that led to increased voter turnout, and share personal experiences and setups during election night. The conversation also delves into the broader political landscape, touching on national events, grassroots organizing, and the importance of addressing affordability and everyday issues in future campaigns. Join Liz, CJ, and Adrian as we analyze the election results and what they mean for the road to the 2026 elections.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis interviews James Whalen, a Democratic candidate running in the March '26 primary for the North Carolina Court of Appeals. We discuss Whalen's background as a former state DOJ attorney and his motivation for reforming the state’s appellate courts. Whalen shares his experiences defending voter rights, his perspectives on education funding, and the importance of judicial decisions in everyday lives. The conversation highlights the generational shift needed in the judiciary and ends with a fun lightning round to get to know Whalen better. Join us as we dive deep into judicial reform and its impact on the future of North Carolina.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis and CJ Robinson, host of Left of Old North, delve into the national implications of recent races, focusing on Supreme Court races in New York and Pennsylvania, and Virginia's gubernatorial win by Abigail Spanberger. They celebrate the election of Ghazala Hashmi, the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office in Virginia. The discussion touches on the significant impact of Prop 50 in California as a response to Texas gerrymandering and the importance of quick election result reporting. Liz and CJ also explore the critical role of canvassing, phone banking, and the need for sustainable infrastructure in electoral campaigns. The episode highlights the successes of young Democrats in local elections and stresses the importance of volunteer efforts. As they look forward, they emphasize the need for consistent, authentic messaging and the importance of translating local electoral wins into long-term power while retaining hope and realism.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis chats with Hannah Preston from Influence NC. They delve into Hannah's work with Influence NC, a recently launched initiative aimed at engaging legislators with social media, and engaging Gen-Z North Carolinians in politics through social media. They discuss the importance of making voting accessible and exciting, the generational perspectives on politics, and the challenges young people face today. The conversation also touches on personal stories, fun event recaps, and the significance of vibrant and joyful political engagement.

In this special Halloween episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis takes listeners on a tour through North Carolina's most haunted locations. From the glamorous Grove Park Inn's resident ghost, the Pink Lady, to the eerie Brown Mountain Lights, Liz explores both well-known and obscure spooky spots across the state. Listeners will journey to the Henry River Mill Village, the mysterious Devil's Tramping Ground, and the haunted coastline of the Outer Banks. This episode diverges from the podcast's usual political focus, delving into the rich, ghostly history of North Carolina and touching on broader themes of memory, loss, and the unending connection between the past and present.

Welcome to the first mini episode of The Foxfire Dispatch hosted by Gina Baxter, a local elected official from Western North Carolina, and Liz Purvis, a progressive organizer in Granville County, North Carolina. In this episode, they delve into the Hatch Act, discussing its origins, significance, and recent relevance concerning government shutdowns and allegations of its violation. The hosts also share their perspectives on the intersection of politics and local governance, highlighting the importance of ethical behavior and examining party endorsement processes. The episode concludes with a rant about political divisiveness and the need for a multi-party system and ranked choice voting to foster a healthier democracy.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Liz and Gina kick off with a light-hearted discussion on Taylor Swift’s new album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’, sharing their personal connections to her music. As the conversation shifts, they delve into the current turmoil within North Carolina, highlighting the complications of the state’s budget crisis, the impact on Medicaid funding, and the ongoing debacle of redrawing congressional maps. They underscore the urgency of civic engagement during these pressing times and the importance of holding elected officials accountable. The episode concludes with a feminist poem from Yemeni American poet Threa Almontaser, exploring themes of identity and culture. Join Liz and Gina for an insightful mix of pop culture and pressing political issues in North Carolina.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, co-host Liz Purvis welcomes Durham County Commission Chair Nida Allam. As the first Muslim woman elected to office in North Carolina, Nida shares her journey from her STEM education background to her current political role. She discusses her commitment to equity and justice, her experience getting into politics following an Islamophobic hate crime that left three of her friends dead, and her grassroots activism. The conversation delves into Nida's advocacy for higher minimum wages, property tax relief, and the unique challenges of governing in Durham County. Nida also offers advice to aspiring young politicians about the importance of mental health, support systems, and coalition-building. Additionally, the episode touches on the broader implications of international and local political issues. Join Liz and Nida for an inspiring and informative discussion about making meaningful change at the local level.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosted by Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis, the discussion kicks off with a recap of the Democratic Municipal Official Summit and a the biggest Democratic fundraiser in Durham, Bourbon and Bowties. The hosts dive into the politics of local candidate endorsement processes. They also analyze recent controversies about COVID-19 vaccination accessibility in North Carolina, highlighting Governor Josh Stein's executive order to reduce barriers to vaccination for adults 18-65 with high-risk conditions. The conversation transitions to discussing federal funding cuts to public broadcasting, emphasizing the critical impact on local journalism and educational resources, particularly in rural areas. To wrap up, Liz shares her excitement about the upcoming seasons of Survivor and the hosts discuss various upcoming Oktoberfest events in North Carolina. The episode concludes with a reminder to participate in early voting and a call to listeners to engage with their community and make positive changes.

This week on The Foxfire Dispatch, Gina is joined by another trailblazing young leader from Western North Carolina: Preston Blakely, the youngest mayor in the state. Together, they dig into their personal journeys into public service, the realities of leading through Hurricane Helene, and why local government is the heartbeat of community resilience. Along the way, we keep it grounded with some lighter moments—including go-to Cookout orders. It’s a conversation about the power of youth, diversity, and everyday leadership in shaping a better South.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Liz Purvis and Gina Baxter delve into the political and social landscape of North Carolina. The discussion opens with personal highlights from their week, including local events like the Apple Festival and a poetry meet-up in Durham. They then tackle the stalled budget negotiations in the North Carolina General Assembly, emphasizing the impacts on teachers, state employees, and infrastructural projects. Liz and Gina criticize Republican leaders Phil Berger and Dustin Hall for not prioritizing budget discussions and highlight the struggles faced by educators due to inadequate pay and rising healthcare premiums. The conversation shifts to economic disparities and the systemic issues exacerbating these problems. They also address a misreported national story involving a college student in Kentucky, critiquing the sensationalist and misleading media portrayal that stigmatizes women's health issues. The episode concludes with a spotlight on WNCW’s Carol Rifkin, her contributions to preserving old-time Appalachian music, and upcoming events of interest, including the North Carolina Folk Festival and Granville County’s Hot Sauce Festival.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis dive into the history and meaning of Labor Day in North Carolina, exploring how the state’s relationship with workers’ rights has evolved—and how it still shapes our communities today. The conversation covers Senator Mark Kelly’s recent visit to Western North Carolina, his engagement with local firefighters, and the ongoing recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene.The episode also shines a spotlight on the story of Luis Alonso Juarez, a beloved Duke University transit worker facing the threat of deportation, and the broader challenges facing immigrant communities in the state. Gina and Liz discuss the importance of solidarity, the realities of service industry work, and the need for continued advocacy at both the local and national level.Plus, don’t miss the “Even Art is Political” segment, featuring a moving poem from Emily Skaja’s Brute, and reflections on the power of art, language, and community action.Tune in for thoughtful discussion, local stories, and actionable ways to get involved—because, as always, we are who we’re waiting for.New episodes drop every Friday. Find us on Instagram, YouTube, Blue Sky, TikTok, and Twitter, or email [email protected] with your stories and ideas.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, co-host Liz Purvis sits down with Anderson Breeze Clayton, the North Carolina Democratic Party Chair. We delve into Clayton's efforts to reshape organizing in North Carolina, particularly in the fight against MAGA politics. Clayton discusses the significance of the Rural Tour, voter registration challenges, and the critical role of local county parties. Additionally, we touch on issues such as gerrymandering, the unique political landscape of North Carolina, and the importance of building a sustainable party infrastructure. The conversation also explores Clayton's approach to social media, her motivations in challenging political times, and her vision for the future of the Democratic Party in North Carolina and beyond.

Join cohosts Liz and Gina on this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch as they dive into Bernie Sanders' Fight the Oligarchy tour in North Carolina, featuring uplifting speeches and union organizing. Plus, discover the North Carolina Hot Sauce Festival, Elizabeth McCorvey's new album Songs I Sent You, and a moving poem by former US Poet Laureate Ada Limón. Don't miss this episode packed with political insights, cultural highlights, and community events!Find Elizabeth McCorvey's album on Bandcamp: https://tinyurl.com/SongsISentYou

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis provide an in-depth overview of reproductive rights in North Carolina, highlighting changes post-Roe v. Wade and the impact of state legislation. We discuss the important efforts of organizations like Carolina Abortion Fund and Carolina Forward in documenting and responding to these changes. The conversation shifts to Roy Cooper's birth chart in a new segment, 'Signs of the Times,' predicting potential challenges and triumphs in his 2026 US Senate race. Liz shares her reality TV binge, 'Perfect Match,' in 'Reality Check,' and they touch on the national political landscape with a focus on gerrymandering efforts in Texas. We also encourage support for local events and actions, especially those relating to reproductive justice and fair voting practices.For more on Carolina Abortion Fund, check out this link:For Zanetta Sirleaf's reporting on reproductive care in NC, check this link out:https://carolinaforward.org/blog/protecting-reproductive-rights-in-post-roe-north-carolina-whats-next/

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Liz and Gina explore key political events in North Carolina, focusing on Governor Roy Cooper's 2026 Senate bid and the entry of RNC Chair Michael Whatley into the race. We discuss recent legislative actions, including multiple veto overrides in the NC General Assembly, and the impact of bills affecting trans healthcare and ICE protocols. The episode also features an interview with Cameron Pruette, director for the Freedom Center for Social Justice, offering insights into the fight against discriminatory policies. Wrapping up on a high note, the hosts share highlights from the NC Democratic Party's Unity Dinner, emphasizing the importance of local elections and community-building. The episode reinforces the power of solidarity and local activism in the face of political challenges.

On the 9th full episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, dive deep into the challenges facing North Carolina communities with town council member Theo Nollert. From disaster recovery to housing policy, this episode offers a compelling conversation on local governance and community resilience. Join us for insights that shape the future! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Join host Gina Baxter and guest Dalton George, Mayor Pro Tem of Boone, for an interview episode in which they dive deep into Dalton's love for Wilco, his journey in tenant rights advocacy, environmental conservation, and his upcoming campaign for mayor in 2025. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of local government, and discover unique insights on tenant protections and the power of community engagement. Tune in for a fascinating conversation that highlights the passion and drive behind making a better North Carolina.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Liz Purvis and Gina Baxter delve deep into the efforts of local organizing in North Carolina. They discuss their recent experiences canvassing for the General Assembly races and municipal elections with the help of the organization C2CNoC. Liz provides insight on calculating win numbers for democratic candidates across various municipalities. The discussion transitions into the critique of the recently signed omnibus budget/tax package, the 'Big Ugly Ass Bill', due to its drastic cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and clean energy investments while significantly boosting ICE funding. They examine the potential fallout for North Carolina, including rural hospital closures and increased hardships for low-income communities. The episode also highlights the critical role of the community in times of disaster, referencing the recent flash flooding in Central North Carolina and calling for mutual aid support. They also share the inspirational story of Tyler Childers' poignant song 'Long Violent History' and introduce the podcast 'Keep it Weird', which dives into the mysterious and paranormal. Join Liz and Gina in their passionate pursuit towards a more just and equitable North Carolina.

Dive into our latest episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, where Gina and Liz break down the importance of the 2025 municipal elections in North Carolina. Learn about key election dates, the significance of local offices, voter ID requirements, and how your vote can make a difference in your community. Don't miss our insights and tips to help you be prepared for the upcoming elections!

Dive in with The Foxfire Dispatch to an engaging conversation on North Carolina politics, covering topics from local leadership to national strategies. Hosts Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis discuss the recent NCDP State Executive Committee Meeting, public leadership training, Shrimpgate 2025, and Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.Special guest Reyna Walters Morgan, DNC Vice Chair for Civic Engagement and Voter Participation, shares her insights on building voter power in rural communities and the transformative impact of grassroots activism. Stay tuned for discussions on election integrity, voter registration, and empowering the next generation of activists!00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:14 Casual Catch-Up in Hendersonville02:17 Public Leadership Training Highlights03:18 Engaging in Public Service07:02 Shrimpgate 2025: A Legislative Tale10:50 Budget and Policy Updates23:01 Voting Rights and Civic Engagement28:37 The Long Road to Change30:06 Challenges in Student Voting32:32 Building Power in Rural Communities44:57 Strategies for Upcoming Elections53:14 Advice for Young Activists56:43 Finding Inspiration and Purpose

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, co-hosts Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis dive into a discussion about political labels. They recount personal experiences with political spectrums, explore how their political views have evolved over time and share their current roles in local Democratic organizations. The episode includes a detailed walkthrough of the Pew Research political typology quiz and reflection on the results. Along the way, they discuss the importance of canvassing, the complexities of being nonpartisan in local government, and the challenges within the U.S. political system. They also touch on military power, economic equity, and the impact of language in communities.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, hosts Liz Purvis and Gina Baxter dive into the unique landscape of North Carolina's political scene. They discuss the complexities and fascinating aspects of living in a purple state, share personal anecdotes from canvassing and local government, and highlight the crucial role women play in political organizing. The episode features conversations about favorite political books, dream podcast guests, and strategies to stay sane while navigating the relentless pace of political work. The hosts also emphasize the importance of community engagement and shout out to the Carolina Abortion Fund for their incredible work. This podcast is supported in part by Carolina Forward.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, Gina and Liz delve into North Carolina politics, focusing on the legislative long session. They explore processes, key bills like House Bill 163 on pharmacy regulations, and their different yet aligning ways of engagement. They also discuss their personal political journeys influenced by controversial bills. Moving to broader issues, they highlight the heartbreaking story of Adriana Smith in Georgia, underscoring systemic injustices. The episode also includes a poem from Tyree Daye and encourages community engagement.

In this debut episode of The Foxfire Dispatch podcast, hosts Gina and Liz reflect on participation in the No Kings rallies across North Carolina. They share their experiences in Hendersonville and Oxford, highlighting the importance of community engagement and the shift towards progressivism in their towns. The episode also covers the historical significance of the Stonewall riots, underscoring the importance of local activism and providing ways for listeners to get involved in their communities. The show wraps up with shoutouts to North Carolina band American Aquarium and a critique of Netflix’s new reality show, Battle Camp.

The Foxfire Dispatch is almost here! Gina Baxter and Liz Purvis give you a taste of what’s coming—Southern voices, honest conversations, and a whole lot of heart. Pull up a chair, press play, and get a sneak peek into the sparks we’re about to ignite.Small sparks, big change, a better South.