On this episode, SEANC Political Strategist Flint Benson and EMPAC Statewide Chair Junior Hulen explain how SEANC’s member-driven political arm (EMPAC) makes endorsements, why this year they avoided races with incumbents, and how they support chosen candidates with boots-on-the-ground activity. They also break down key North Carolina legislative races to watch, offer election timelines (registration deadline Oct 9, early voting begins Oct 15), and urge members to check vote.seanc.org and make a plan to vote on November 3.

On Monday, the Wake County Board of Commissioners voted 5–2 to advance parts of the WakeMed–Atrium merger after weeks of secret meetings, a large public rally, and a late statement from the governor. Community groups led by the Patients Union and the Justice Center protested the process and warned the deal will raise prices, reduce charity care, and erode local control. The transfer still faces federal and state reviews, but residents and county leaders remain sharply divided over transparency, the contract’s terms, and the future of affordable care in North Carolina.

Hosts recap the convention highlights, a new agreement allowing select Atrium hospitals into the State Health Plan access tier, and concerns about coverage and costs. The episode also features an in-depth interview with the Patients Union Executive Director Jamila Headley and Ron Stephens about the proposed WakeMed–Atrium merger, public records and transparency issues, and calls to action for a Monday rally.

The SEANC View team records live from Greensboro at the 42nd Annual Scenic Convention, introducing speakers and previewing the packed agenda, including reports, nominations, and a remembrance for 9/11. The episode covers the controversy over Atrium’s proposed takeover of WakeMed and its potential cost impact on state employees, North Carolina's poor rankings for worker protections and healthcare, concerns about privacy and Flock cameras, and quick convention updates and takes from hosts.

Hosts Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, Suzanne Beasley and Samantha Cline rush through a packed episode ahead of the convention, leading with the big WakeMed–Atrium merger story and its financial and cost implications for North Carolinians. They also cover high-paid university staff, a rabies scare at traveling petting goats, tributes to Dolly Parton, local politics, and a lighthearted roundabout question about personal obsessions.

We open by reacting to Dolly Parton’s death, her impact as a songwriter, and calls to donate to the Imagination Library. Then turn to the WakeMed–Atrium proposal, concerns about rising health costs, the upcoming Wake County commissioners vote, and what the merger could mean for patients and employees. The episode also previews the SEANC convention, highlights state service awards and salary stories, and closes with the question of the week asking listeners for their favorite Dolly Parton song.