Shows
1on1 with Jon EvansKathleen Baker: The Battles She Faced Before and After Winning Olympic GoldKathleen Baker overcame being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease to become one of the best swimmers in the world, winning gold and silver medals in Rio de Janeiro with the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Baker set her sights on returning to the games in 2020, but she never got that second chance at Olympic gold. Now the North Carolina native is supporting a project that could help train the next generation of elite athletes.
2024-12-2048 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBen Folds: Acclaimed singer/songwriter helps Western NC Hurricane reliefBen Folds, the acclaimed singer/songwriter and founder of the 90’s indie rock band Ben Folds Five, is returning to his home state of North Carolina to headline From Wilmington With Love, a benefit concert supporting Hurricane Helene relief. But there’s more on the platinum-record selling performer’s plate. Folds is preparing to record a live performance with the National Symphony Orchestra, and releasing his first collection of Christmas songs, called Sleigher.
2024-10-2529 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMike Oblinger: UNCW’s Athletic Director and the Future of the Front PorchMike Oblinger took over as Athletic Director at UNCW in April of 2023, coming to Wilmington from the University of Connecticut where he worked alongside coaches and administrators who won several national championships. Oblinger brings years of experience in fundraising and administration, looking to take Seahawk athletics to the next level, while ensuring the front porch is in great shape.
2024-09-2040 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMajor Frank Zastoupil: Once a Blue Angel, always a Blue AngelThey fly at 400 miles per hour in fighter jets that are inches apart. The Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron has entertained crowds for decades with precision mid-air maneuvers, and U.S. Marine Corps pilot Major Frank Zastoupil had one of the best seats in the house. Major Zastoupil, who is now stationed in North Carolina, is featured in new movie called The Blue Angels, which takes you behind the scenes and into the cockpits of those blue and gold aircraft for an entire season.
2024-09-0640 min
1on1 with Jon EvansErika Arlee & Kristi Ray: Award-winning filmmakers who put females out frontErika Arlee and Kristi Ray are kindred spirits. A casting call on Craigslist brought them together a decade ago, sparking a friendship that helped launch their production company, Honey Head Films. Their mission is to tell strong stories from the often-overlooked female perspective. The duo’s debut feature film, the multi award-winning A Song for Imogene, is resonating with festival audiences across the country.
2024-05-2459 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJessica Holmes: NC’s State Auditor has gone from Pender County to public serviceWhen Jessica Holmes took the oath of office to become North Carolina’s State Auditor in December 2023, she added another “first” to her growing list of accomplishments. It’s even more impressive when you learn Jessica Holmes experienced homelessness as a child while growing up in Pender County. But thanks to adults who took the time to care, several life-changing moments sent Jessica on her path toward public office, and public service.
2024-04-0552 min
1on1 with Jon EvansKayla Thompson: Grinding to take her golf game to the LPGA TourKayla Thompson had success as a member of the West Bladen High School and UNCW women’s golf teams. Since turning professional in 2019, Kayla has chased the dream of earning her card and playing on the Ladies Professional Golf Association Tour. After several years of ups and downs, Kayla has now earned the chance to take her game to the next level, and she’s working harder than ever to make it happen.
2024-03-2248 min
1on1 with Jon EvansKody Kinsley: From NC to DC and back, just in time for Covid and Medicaid expansionKody Kinsley’s life came full circle in 2023. The man who grew up in Wilmington without health insurance helped roll out a program that will provide coverage for 600,000 North Carolinians. That’s the latest accomplishment for the state’s Health and Human Services Secretary, whose career of firsts has combined his two passions, health care and public service.
2024-03-0145 min
1on1 with Jon EvansTerry Hayes: Back at his storytelling best with "The Year of the Locust"Terry Hayes found international success when his 2014 debut novel I am Pilgrim became a critically-acclaimed best seller. But in achieving his lifelong ambition, the former journalist and Hollywood screenwriter suddenly found himself in an abyss, searching for the emotional drive to take readers on another page-turning thriller ride. Now, with The Year of the Locust, Hayes has found his groove again, delivering a masterful, suspense-filled espionage story that breaks the mold of today’s spy genre.
2024-02-021h 12
1on1 with Jon EvansJim Shockey: Worldwide adventurer adds ‘thriller writer’ to his long list of accomplishmentsJim Shockey is considered one of the world’s best outdoor sportsmen. He’s taken audiences along on wildlife adventure television shows, and led hunting expeditions and conservation efforts into some of the most remote locations on earth. Shockey’s passion for folk and tribal art can be seen in the Hand of Man Museum in his native Canada. Shockey has now embarked on a new adventure, as an author, with his debut thriller, Call Me Hunter, and he wants you to dig and find the fiction.
2023-10-1852 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDon Bentley: Bestselling author closes a chapter with "Tom Clancy: Weapons Grade"In the decade since the death of New York Times bestselling author Tom Clancy, Don Bentley is one of the novelists that have continued to bring life to Clancy’s characters. Tom Clancy: Weapons Grade, Bentley’s newly-released fourth thriller featuring Jack Ryan, Jr., ends one chapter in the former Army Apache helicopter pilot’s writing career, while another is about to begin as he takes over writing for another well-known character, Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp.
2023-09-2953 min
1on1 with Jon EvansTakayo Siddle & Nicole Woods: The State of Seahawk HoopsTakayo Siddle and Nicole Woods have a lot more in common than being head basketball coaches at UNC Wilmington. They both grew up in North Carolina, played high school and college basketball in the state, and worked as assistant coaches at in-state universities before landing their first head coaching jobs in Wilmington. Woods hopes to add another similarity, by rebuilding the Seahawk women’s hoops program that has fallen on tough times. Siddle did it with the men’s team, and he thinks it won’t be long before Woods has the same success.
2023-09-1536 min
1on1 with Jon EvansWalker Jenkins: The talented teenager who is determined to be baseball’s bestWhile most little league baseball players dream about making the major leagues, that’s never been enough for Walker Jenkins. Setbacks like not making the all-star team as a six-year-old have fueled his competitive fire to work harder and be better than everyone who has played the game. It made him a top draft pick of the Minnesota Twins, and earned him a multi-million dollar signing bonus. Now the teenager from Oak Island is getting his chance at pro ball, and his plans don’t include striking out.
2023-07-2840 min
1on1 with Jon EvansWilliston’s Legacy Graduation: Righting a wrong from 1968At the height of America’s civil rights movement, a school board vote closed the only all-Black high school in Wilmington, North Carolina. Generations of families had graduated from Williston Senior High School since its’ inception in 1866. But, in June 1968, facing the possibility of losing federal funding over the school system’s delayed desegregation plan, the New Hanover County Board of Education abruptly closed Williston Senior High, forcing around 900 students to attend mostly-White high schools to complete their education. Now, 55 years later, the community is working to heal the wound caused by that decision.
2023-06-1624 min
1on1 with Jon EvansErik Estrada: Former CHiPs star is now busy making Divine RenovationsWith the uniform, badge, helmet, motorcycle and million-dollar smile, Erik Estrada rocketed to television stardom as Officer Frank Poncherello on CHiPs, one of NBC’s most successful shows of the 70s and 80s. More than 40 years and dozens of roles later, Estrada’s on-screen career brought him to Wilmington for Divine Renovation. It's a home remodeling show with a faith-based twist, with a message that hearkens back to the actor's very first movie.
2023-05-2629 min
1on1 with Jon EvansElle Graham: Teen actress celebrating new movie and hit TV seriesElle Graham already has an impressive acting resume, with appearances on high-profile projects like Stranger Things and The Walking Dead. The 13-year-old from Hampstead is riding a wave of popularity right now, thanks in part to starring in the hit Disney television show The Secrets of Sulphur Springs, which is in its third season. Elle also has a major role in a new movie, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, which opens nationwide this weekend.
2023-04-2821 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCarli Batson: Former Miss North Carolina to soon wear the crown as Queen AzaleaCarli Batson did not enter her first pageant until her teenage years, a decision made after her father lost his job. Once Batson started, though, she found success, winning several titles and enough scholarship money to avoid the burden of college tuition debt. Now the former Miss Wilmington and Miss North Carolina is preparing to wear a new crown, as the 2023 North Carolina Azalea Festival Queen.
2023-04-0731 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJonas Pate: Riding the wave of excitement for Outer Banks: Season 3Fans can’t wait to see what Jonas Pate and the other co-creators of the smash hit television series Outer Banks have planned for the show’s third season, which starts streaming February 23 on Netflix. The writer/director/producer has taken the Pogues on whirlwind adventures and audiences have loved it, sending OBX2 all the way to #1. The North Carolina native previews the new season, talks about the cast and crew that made it happen, and gives a sneak peek into the new project he hopes to launch soon.
2023-02-1724 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDane Barnes: The co-founders of the Shibumi Shade are a wind-driven success storyTheir recognizable blue and teal canopies wave on nearly every beach in the United States. Dane Barnes, his brother Scott and best friend Alex Slater invented the Shibumi Shade after years of lugging their family’s heavy umbrellas on beach vacations. As the wind-driven sunshade gained in popularity, the three UNC grads learned that launching their own company is not a breeze, and a lot of little things must be done to achieve success.
2023-01-2732 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBevin Prince: Determined to show up, with strength, in her new roleBevin Prince has had many roles in her life. The best-known may be playing Bevin Mirskey on the still-popular TV show One Tree Hill. As an entrepreneur, she launched Recess by Bevin Prince, a high-intensity cycling center in Wilmington. Bevin is now cast in a role she never wanted, as a widow. On this episode of the 1on1 with Jon Evans podcast, Bevin talks publicly for the first time about the lightning strike that killed her husband, Will Friend, and how the support of family and friends helped her find the strength to move forward, and to keep showing...
2022-12-0254 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMark Robinson: He stood up and spoke his mind, and he says others should, tooMark Robinson pulls no punches when it comes to his beliefs and principles. Robinson’s direct, some would even say fiery, approach to sharing his opinions is one reason for his rapid ascension into political relevance and history in North Carolina. The outspoken lieutenant governor has written a memoir, We Are The Majority, that recalls how his life’s experiences helped shape the values that Robinson’s supporters admire, and his critics dislike.
2022-10-2831 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMorgan Myles: A finalist on “The Voice” after years as a touring musicianWhen Morgan Myles started singing Hallelujah in her blind audition on The Voice, she got a four-chair turn from the celebrity judges within 40 seconds. The response and high praise Myles received from Camila Cabello, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani and John Legend did more than raise her profile on the national stage. It reaffirmed Myles’s faith in her own talent and gave her a much-needed boost of confidence after years as a touring musician. Now, Wilmington’s connection to NBC's hit show shares her story about taking this chance, so America can hear her sing.
2022-10-1431 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMartin Jarmond: A career of firsts, launched by a life-changing phone callMartin Jarmond knows about success. The UNCW alum has done the hard work it takes to succeed on both personal and professional levels. But had it not been for a single phone call, made at one of Jarmond’s lowest moments when self-doubt threatened to become an obstacle, his achievements may have never happened. Ground may have remained unbroken. Racial barriers may have stood for many more years. UCLA’s Athletic Director talks about the importance of that call on his career, and how he works to help others follow in his path.
2022-09-1633 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCarson Kressley: Original ‘Fab Five’ fashion savant set to emcee Wilmington charity eventCarson Kressley had started a career in fashion when a friend urged him to audition for a reality show. That opportunity turned into his breakthrough role as fashion savant for Bravo TV’s original Queer Eye for the Straight Guy series, which won an Emmy and changed the trajectory of Kressley’s life. The television personality, best-selling author and designer will soon be in Wilmington, to emcee a charity fundraiser to benefit the Welcome Home Angel organization.
2022-09-0221 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDr. Aswani Volety: UNCW’s new chancellor got an early start in educationDr. Aswani Volety has spent nearly all his life in education. In fact, he started school at the age of two in his native India, and hasn’t stopped learning since. Now the newly-installed UNCW Chancellor wants to use his experiences as a student, teacher, scholar, researcher and administrator to ensure every Seahawk receives what he calls ‘a great education’.
2022-08-1242 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJerrod Mustaf: Former NBA star combines life skills and hoops at hometown summer campJerrod Mustaf played against the best basketball talent in the world. The Whiteville, NC native was a first-round NBA draft pick, and made it all the way to the finals, before taking his game overseas and winning a pair of championships in international leagues. Since then, as the CEO and Executive Director of the Take Charge Program his father founded, Mustaf has spent decades creating programs that combine sports and life skills to benefit young men and women.
2022-06-0350 min
1on1 with Jon EvansNina de Gramont: UNCW professor lands on NYT Best Seller List with Agatha Christie novelNina de Gramont’s career as a published author began in 2001 with Of Cats and Men. The UNCW professor’s ninth book, The Christie Affair, has made her a ‘best-selling author’. De Gramont’s fictional novel of Agatha Christie’s famous 11-day disappearance landed on the New York Times’ list shortly after its’ release, thanks in part to being chosen for Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club. De Gramont talks about having to keep that secret, the pressure of her follow-up, and the joys of teaching the next generation of writers.
2022-05-1339 min
1on1 with Jon EvansKevin Cronin: REO Speedwagon front man on playing live again post-pandemicREO Speedwagon has sold more than 40 million records since its’ debut in 1971, and Kevin Cronin has been the front man for the past 45 years. After a mandatory, unscheduled hiatus from touring because of the pandemic, Cronin and the band are ‘Back on the Road Again’ in 2022, with live shows packed with fan favorites, while the singer-songwriter also finishes writing a book about his career.
2022-03-2528 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBrantley Gilbert: Country rocker ready to get back out on tour in 2022Brantley Gilbert has toured with some of the biggest names in country music. The rock star has hundreds of sold-out shows and more than a half-dozen #1 records to his credit. But, like many singer-songwriters, the pandemic has kept the self-proclaimed ‘road dog’ from performing live as often as he wanted. In our conversation, Gilbert talks about getting back out on tour in 2022, the love-letter he wrote to his wife and daughter, and the first time he ever picked up a guitar.
2022-03-0430 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCarson Holmes: The teenager who’s become Ozark’s Three LangmoreAt just 13-years-old, Carson Holmes experienced what he now calls a “life-changing” event. He auditioned for and got the part of Three Langmore on the Netflix series Ozark, which has become one of the streaming service’s biggest hits. The Wilmington actor talks about working alongside the award-winning cast, the scripts his parents wouldn’t let him read, and the cliffhangers still ahead for fans of the show.
2022-02-1133 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMichelle Li: Turning a racist voicemail message into a positive #veryasian movementMichelle Li is an excellent journalist. Several Murrow and Emmy awards are proof of her skills. But nothing in her two decades of television news could have prepared Michelle for the racist voicemail a viewer left her on New Year’s Day. By gracefully sharing her pain, and letting the world hear the viewer’s rant, Michelle started a conversation about race and discrimination against Asian Americans that has turned into the positive #veryasian movement.
2022-01-281h 01
1on1 with Jon Evans2021: The Year in ReviewThe fifth season of the award-winning “1on1 with Jon Evans” podcast is in the books. Season five featured interviews with authors, actors, athletes, directors, television personalities, comedians and newsmakers with ties to southeastern North Carolina. This end-of-the-year compilation features several of the most interesting excerpts from some of the year’s conversations.
2021-12-2242 min
1on1 with Jon EvansNick Ochsner & Michael Graff: Their book “The Vote Collectors” documents what led to the 2018 election fraud scandal in Bladen CountyReporters Nick Ochsner and Michael Graff covered the 2018 election fraud scandal in North Carolina’s Ninth Congressional District for different news organizations. The more time they spent in Bladen County, uncovering networks and identifying individuals working to influence elections, the more they realized politics in this rural county has its’ own set of rules. Their book The Vote Collectors is a deep dive into how it worked and nearly won a seat in Congress.
2021-11-1946 min
1on1 with Jon EvansWiley Cash: Why his new novel will make readers think about life’s ghostsWiley Cash’s fourth novel, When Ghosts Come Home, represents several firsts in the New York Times best-selling author’s career. He’s crafted a murder-mystery and set it along the coast of his native North Carolina. Despite the mid-1980s timeframe, Cash’s characters deal with many of the same social issues making today’s headlines, while they work to exorcise the ghosts of their past. It’s an engaging story that will make readers think, with an ending that turns on the answer to a simple question.
2021-10-2951 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMeredith Viera: How leading with ‘Yes’ helped launch her award-winning careerMeredith Viera’s current project, the Fox-syndicated game show 25 Words or Less is now in its’ third season and seen on television stations across the country. It’s another success in Viera’s award-winning career that began in local radio more than four decades ago, and has taken her around the world to cover the biggest stories and newsmakers.
2021-10-2221 min
1on1 with Jon EvansLee Loughnane: Playing horns on Chicago’s hit songs for more than 50 yearsThey came out of Chicago and put the city’s name at the top of the music charts, where it stayed for decades. Trumpet player Lee Loughnane is one of three founding members of Chicago still touring with the rock and roll band 52 years after releasing their first album in 1969. Now back on the road after a pandemic-forced break, Loughnane talks about the excitement of performing live, what fans can expect to hear at the shows, and why he has no plans to stop playing any time soon.
2021-10-0830 min
1on1 with Jon EvansYaya DaCosta: What led the actress from “Chicago Med’ to “Our Kind of People”Actress Yaya DaCosta left NBC’s Chicago Med after six seasons to play the lead character of Angela Vaughn in Our Kind of People. The new Fox show, which shoots in Wilmington, NC, is inspired by Lawrence Otis Graham’s bestseller that goes inside America’s Black Upper Class. DaCosta talks about the importance of the show, what drew her to the project, and how her experience in Reality TV nearly sidetracked her acting career.
2021-10-0120 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDr. Muneeb Shah: How the @DermDoctor became a social media superstarDr. Muneeb Shah has had a meteoric rise to social media stardom. The fourth-year Dermatology Resident in Wilmington, NC posted his first TikTok video about skin care on May 1, 2020, and now has more than ten million followers. Dr. Shah’s videos on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube have more than three billion views. This is the story of how he became one of the most influential voices in the field of dermatology and the world of social media, and how serious he takes that role.
2021-09-2451 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJohn Maginnes: Taking advantage of his second chance with golf and fatherhoodJohn Maginnes accomplished his dream of becoming a pro golfer, playing on the PGA Tour for a decade and competing alongside some of the biggest names in the sport like Tiger Woods and Nick Faldo. But when an injury presented an opportunity, Maginnes grabbed it. Now, as a host, analyst and on-course reporter on Sirius XM PGA Tour Radio, Maginnes still makes a living in the game he loves, while also enjoying a second chance at being a Dad.
2021-09-1037 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJay Leno & Kevin Eubanks: Together on TV again on ‘You Bet Your Life’Jay Leno and Kevin Eubanks are working together again on television. Leno is rebooting the comedy show You Bet Your Life, and he wanted Eubanks to co-host. Their relationship goes back to the early 90s, when Leno took over as host of The Tonight Show and Eubanks became the bandleader. The two friends talk about what fans can expect to see when the new show airs in September.
2021-08-2715 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBrad Thor: Bestselling author brings back his alter ego Scot Harvath in “Black Ice”Brad Thor tried once to launch a writing career, and it didn’t work. When the pieces started falling into place to give him a second chance, he jumped at it, and is now a #1 bestselling author of 21 thrillers, selling tens of millions of books around the world. Brad joins WECT’s Jon Evans to talk about the idea behind his new Scot Harvath book “Black Ice”, the gamble of killing-off familiar characters, and getting the call to help prevent future terror attacks against the United States.
2021-07-3039 min
1on1 with Jon EvansKathy Reichs: A hurricane, an outbreak and the unsolved murders in her new book, “The Bone Code”Kathy Reichs’ new book, The Bone Code, is the 20th in her bestselling Bones series that features forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan. It’s a murder-mystery ‘ripped from the headlines’ that takes Tempe back to an unsolved case from her past. Reichs has also co-authored the young adult Virals books, and produced episodes of the long-running Bones television series, entertaining millions of fans since her debut in 1997.
2021-07-1633 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJack Carr: Bestselling author & former Navy Seal on making the transition from military to civilian lifeJack Carr spent two decades on the front lines of America’s war on terrorism. The former Navy Seal sniper and Special Operations Commander transitioned into a second career, and is now a New York Times bestselling author. While crafting novels like The Devil’s Hand, which keep readers riveted, Carr supports organizations that help other veterans begin and succeed in their post-military lives.
2021-06-2542 min
1on1 with Jon EvansHannah Black & Megan Petersen: The co-everything forces behind award-winning indie film "Drought"Hannah Black and Megan Petersen have taken different roads to their place in the film industry. Once their paths converged in an acting class, it set off a chain of creative events that resulted in the award-winning independent film, Drought. The co-creators, co-directors and co-stars talk about the project’s long road from start to finish, the messages they wanted to convey, and the one word not contained in their vocabularies.
2021-06-1145 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDrew & Owen Scheid: Actors discuss the messages behind award-winning indie film "Drought"Drew and Owen Scheid play two of the central characters in the award-winning independent film Drought, now streaming on Amazon Prime. While Drew has more acting experience, Drought marks Owen’s film debut, playing a young man on the autism spectrum who is fascinated with weather and storm chasing. The two brothers talk about the messages the movie conveys, overcoming a hurricane interruption, and working together on-screen for the first time.
2021-05-2842 min
1on1 with Jon EvansShaneequa Vereen: From SENC to NASA, now documenting our journeys into spaceShaneequa Vereen took a leap of faith to move halfway across the country without a job. Now, as Public Affairs Officer and Live Mission Commentator at NASA, Shaneequa is helping document mankind’s leaps into the heavens and beyond, while showing other young women of color that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
2021-05-1436 min
1on1 with Jon EvansAlex Highsmith: How the chip on his shoulder helped him make the NFLAlex Highsmith is an imposing figure in his shoulder pads and Pittsburgh Steelers uniform. If you look closely, you will also see a little chip on his shoulder. It’s the fuel that has powered Highsmith’s internal engine, helping the Wilmington native reach the National Football League, where he is now paid to play the game he used to play for fun. Highsmith has already noticed the difference.
2021-04-0222 min
1on1 with Jon EvansPatrick Brien: CEO of CFC is investing in staff, stuff, space and systemsPatrick Brien doesn’t look at complicated issues the way most people do. The Army veteran and CEO of Cape Fear Collective has a view from about ten thousand feet, where he sees potential partnerships and innovative opportunities to address issues like poverty, affordable housing and healthcare. By using data to light the way, and capital to fuel the engine, Brien believes CFC can be the vehicle to drive understanding and generational change.
2021-03-0536 min
1on1 with Jon EvansGreta Van Susteren: How a toga party helped her become an accidental anchorLong before Greta Van Susteren became Chief National Political Analyst for Gray TV and the host of “Full Court Press” on WECT, before she anchored shows on CNN, Fox News Channel, MSNBC and Voice of America, and before she first gained national attention providing legal analysis during the O.J. Simpson Trial, the Wisconsin native had earned two law degrees, taught courses at law school and practiced law for a dozen years. But in the end, Greta says attending a toga party made a bigger difference in launching her television career.
2021-02-1942 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCliff Cash: Comedian who says he’s "Half Way There" reaches #1 on iTunesCliff Cash hasn’t had many chances to make people laugh with his stand-up comedy since the pandemic hit. But fans can get their fill with Half Way There, Cliff’s new album that spent three days at #1 on the iTunes Comedy Chart. In our podcast, Cliff talks about his first on-stage performance, why some people cry during his shows, and the time he had to tell his brother to stop being so funny.
2021-01-2951 min
1on1 with Jon EvansChris Everett: Filmmaker working on the follow-up to his award-winning ‘Wilmington on Fire’ documentaryChris Everett is now working on the follow-up to his award-winning 2015 documentary film Wilmington on Fire, which chronicled the 1898 Wilmington Massacre that overthrew the existing city government and resulted in the deaths of dozens of Black leaders. Chris talks about the film’s renewed importance in conversations about racial justice, the retired pro basketball player who helped to get it finished, and the stories he wants to tell in Chapter II.
2020-12-1146 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJen Lilley: Star of ‘USS Christmas’ movie is making sure Christmas is not cancelled by COVID-19Actress Jen Lilley’s latest project for The Hallmark Channel brought her to Wilmington to shoot USS Christmas during the pandemic. Along with spreading holiday cheer through the movie, Jen also came up with a way to keep COVID-19 from cancelling Christmas for families and children in need. She’s also channeled her advocacy for foster children and adoption into the successful Fostering Hope podcast.
2020-11-2044 min
1on1 with Jon EvansTakayo Siddle: UNCW's Head Coach reflects on the unanswered calls he made to his MomTakayo Siddle became the head coach of the UNCW Men’s Basketball Team in March of 2020. He’s had to work hard, on and off the court, to keep his team virus-free during the COVID-19 pandemic. Siddle talks about that challenge, his journey to becoming a head coach, and the tough love lesson he learned when his Mom did not pick up the phone.
2020-10-3036 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCharles Foust: Taking over New Hanover County Schools at a turbulent timeDr. Charles Foust takes over as the Superintendent of New Hanover County Schools at a turbulent time. The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for students, families, teachers and staff. Three educators from inside the system were arrested and charged with sex crimes against children in the past two years, and the investigation into whether administrators violated any laws in handling allegations brought to their attention. Dr. Foust talks about how he plans to address the challenges that lie ahead, in and out of the classroom.
2020-09-1141 min
1on1 with Jon EvansTrevor Donovan: Bringing a Hallmark Channel Christmas to WilmingtonTrevor Donovan has been on hiatus since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. But the actor is getting back in front of the cameras, coming to Wilmington in September to star in another Christmas movie for the Hallmark Channel. Donovan talks about working under new pandemic-related safety rules, the importance of his breakthrough role on the CW's 90210, and the decision he calls the ‘best of his career’.
2020-08-2829 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJohn Gizdic & Carl Armato: The CEOs behind the multi-billion dollar sale of NHRMC to Novant HealthNew Hanover Regional Medical Center has operated for more than 50 years as a public hospital. That's likely to change by the end of 2020, as negotiations are underway to sell NHRMC to Novant Health in a deal worth upwards of $5 billion. Jon interviews the two Chief Executive Officers, John Gizdic of NHRMC and Carl Armato of Novant, with questions raised by the public, and hears how they believe the partnership will reform healthcare and improve lives in southeastern North Carolina.
2020-07-3157 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBeck Black: Her music career gets a dose of “Starr” powerBeck Black grew up in rural North Carolina loving to sing and play music. Little did she know one day, she would be teamed up with one of the most famous musicians in the world. Beck’s new song, “Who’s Gonna Save Rock n’ Roll”, features Ringo Starr on drums, and the former Beatle also appears in the music video. Here’s the story of how it all came together, and what’s on the horizon for Beck Black’s music career.
2020-07-2436 min
1on1 with Jon EvansReporters Covering Protests: Tear gas, rocks and emotionsAccording to the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker, 129 journalists were physically attacked while covering protests that followed the death of George Floyd. They were shoved to the ground, hit with batons, rubber rounds, tear gas, rocks, bottles and other projectiles, all while trying to document the history-making Black Lives Matter movement. Four television news reporters describe their experiences and emotions of covering the civil unrest.
2020-07-1736 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDr. Mandy Cohen: She is a Mom, a wife, and now the face of North Carolina’s effort against COVID-19After earning three degrees from Ivy League schools and handling multiple health crises on the federal and state levels, Dr. Mandy Cohen says she never anticipated having to help ten million people through a pandemic. Now, as Secretary of North Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Cohen is the face of the state’s effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, while balancing being a wife and mom to two little girls.
2020-06-2631 min
1on1 with Jon Evans‘John Boy’ Isley: Decades of making morning radio laughter with partner Billy JamesFew partnerships in radio or television have lasted as long as the one forged by John Isley and Bill James. They met in 1980 and are still together today on the wildly successful “John Boy & Billy Big Show”, waking people up with laughter on radio stations across the country. We caught up with John Isley in Wrightsville Beach, where he spends a lot of time away from work, and asked about how he got his start, the crew involved in producing the ‘Big Show’ magic, and how much longer the show will go on.
2020-06-1236 min
1on1 with Jon EvansChristina Koch: Her lifelong dream of going to space began along the NC coastAs a child growing up along the North Carolina coast, Christina Koch used to look up at the stars from her backyard and dream about exploring the heavens. Decades later, she rode a rocket to the International Space Station and set the record for longest single space flight by a woman. The NASA astronaut shares stories about her journey, almost missing the phone call, and her favorite memories of working and living in outer space.
2020-05-2228 min
1on1 with Jon EvansPeter Hans: President of NC Community Colleges hopes campuses can reopen in fallThe coronavirus pandemic could cost the North Carolina Community College System $2 billion. Future enrollment numbers are an unknown. Students are struggling financially and need assistance. Online learning must be improved, especially in rural areas. NCCCS President Peter Hans says schools are meeting these challenges and will be ready to offer educational opportunities when campuses are allowed to re-open.
2020-05-0132 min
1on1 with Jon EvansSanah Sayani: How she turned her spa into a mask-making operation to protect people against COVID-19Sanah Sayani had to close her spa business in March because of the coronavirus pandemic. But once the former television news reporter learned about the vital need for personal protection equipment in the fight against COVID-19, her space became headquarters for an all-volunteer effort to get free facemasks to anyone in need. So far, Tucker Makes Masks is at seven thousand, and counting.
2020-04-2427 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCovering COVID-19: Anchoring news from home not as easy as you thinkYou’ve watched them on WECT News for years. Frances Weller and Ashlea Kosikowski continue to deliver vital information to viewers during the coronavirus pandemic, but they are not broadcasting live from the television studio. These award-winning journalists are anchoring newscasts remotely from their homes, practicing social distancing to stay safe. While it may be convenient, both news anchors say it’s not as easy as you might think.
2020-04-1753 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCovering COVID-19: Journalists share stories of reporting on the deadly pandemicThey’ve covered hurricanes, tornadoes and other natural disasters. But the deadly coronavirus pandemic is a different story for journalists. They are living the same reality as their audience, feeling the same emotions, while at the same time searching for and disseminating critical information that can help save lives. This week, three award-winning television news reporters share their experiences of covering COVID-19.
2020-04-0341 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDr. Jose Sartarelli: How UNCW is dealing with coronavirus outbreakWhat’s it like steering a university community through the challenges of the current coronavirus outbreak? UNCW Chancellor Dr. Jose Sartarelli provides an update on the accelerated transition to all-online learning, shares his advice for college seniors preparing to launch their careers in a turbulent economy, talks about possible options for commencement exercises, while also taking extra precautions as someone in the high-risk category for contracting the virus.
2020-03-2330 min
1on1 with Jon EvansSeparating fact from fiction about the COVID-19As the new coronavirus COVID-19 impacts more lives across North Carolina and the United States, rumors about the virus continue to create confusion and uncertainty. Two public health experts answer your questions, looking to separate fact from fiction.
2020-03-121h 00
1on1 with Jon EvansGlenn Tillbrook: Squeeze-ing in a stop in Wilmington during the band’s 2020 U.S. tourGlenn Tilbrook met Chris Difford in 1973, after answering an ad for a guitar player in London. That meeting set the foundation for the pop band Squeeze, which rose to stardom in the 70s & 80s with songs like Cool for Cats, Tempted and Hour Glass. After more than a dozen albums, several breakups and different solo projects, Glenn talks about going back out on a U.S. tour with Chris and Squeeze nearly 50 years after they first got together.
2020-02-2921 min
1on1 with Jon EvansVanna White: Famous? Yes! But still just a down home southern girl at heartShe is one of the few people known around the world by her first name. Vanna White left her family’s home along the Carolina coast four decades ago, aiming to become a TV star. It didn’t happen overnight. Now, after 37 years and more than 7,000 episodes as co-host of Wheel of Fortune, this 'normal, down home southern girl' talks about her road to success.
2020-02-1526 min
1on1 with Jon EvansReggie Shuford: Growing up in Wilmington helped shape his civil rights careerReggie Shuford has spent most of his adult life fighting for civil rights. Growing up in Wilmington’s Creekwood community, the third of five children raised by a single mom on public assistance, Reggie says he lived and observed many of the same dynamics he has fought against in court. Now the Executive Director of the ACLU of Pennsylvania talks about those experiences and the people who shaped his life.
2020-02-0153 min
1on1 with Jon Evans2019 in Review: Did you hear what they said?The third season of our podcast featured interviews with a network news anchor, an Olympic head coach, Captain America's stuntman, a World Cup soccer goalie, a Pearl Harbor survivor and other interesting people who have ties to the Wilmington, NC area. Here is a look back at 2019, featuring parts of several episodes with guests you may recognize.
2019-12-2126 min
1on1 with Jon EvansLeslie “Bud” Hollenbeck: The bomb that nearly killed him at Pearl HarborLeslie ‘Bud’ Hollenbeck was just 19 years old when fate put him on the U.S.S. Pennsylvania on the morning of December 7, 1941. As the Navy Signalman raised a flag on the battleship just before 8:00am, he spotted a group of planes approaching the harbor. Seconds later, the world changed. Now at age 97, Hollenbeck tells the story of how he survived the attack, the destruction he witnessed, and the bomb that came within feet of taking out his entire ship.
2019-11-3032 min
1on1 with Jon EvansHurricane Florence and the memories of Mercer Avenue (“1on1 with Jon Evans” podcast)It’s the image many people remember from Hurricane Florence. A group of Wilmington firefighters gathered along the street in prayer after working for hours to rescue a man trapped inside his home by a fallen tree. The emotion and exhaustion evident on their faces, realizing they could not save the man’s wife and infant son. More than a year later, several of those men share their memories of that day, and the emotions they’ve carried ever since.
2019-11-0259 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBasile Katsikis: The $20 bet that launched his stand-up comedy careerIt was a $20 bet with his cousin that first got Basile Katsikis on stage to tell jokes. Since that night in 1986, ‘Basile the Comedian’ has entertained audiences around the world with his unique brand of humor, often sharing stories of growing up as the son of Greek immigrants. Since being a comedian, entrepreneur, voiceover actor and podcast host is not enough, Basile has set his sights on television, creating a new series based on his life experiences.
2019-10-1954 min
1on1 with Jon EvansLacey Suggs: Lady Seahawks’ co-captain nearly walked away from the gameIt’s the Christmas break that nearly changed Lacey Suggs’ life. After a stellar basketball career at East Bladen HS, her freshman year at UNC Wilmington brought the opposite result. More bench time, less playing time. In December 2016, Lacey thought about giving up basketball. But something told her to stick with it. Now she enters her senior year as a co-captain, and one of the key players as the Lady Seahawks chase a conference championship.
2019-10-0536 min
1on1 with Jon EvansRyan Nyquist: Legendary BMX champion enjoying the ride as Head Coach of U.S. Olympic teamWhen the X Games launched BMX Freestyle to new heights, Ryan Nyquist soared as one of its’ young stars. Now more than 20 years later, Nyquist is still front and center as the sport prepares to make another jump in the 2020 Summer Olympics. The three-time world champion is the Head Coach of the U.S. Olympic Team, helping the country’s best athletes go for the gold on the world’s biggest stage.
2019-09-2154 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDaniel Hargrave: Fighting Captain America’s battles in 'Infinity War' & 'Endgame'If you’ve watched the Avengers’ Infinity War and Endgame movies, you’ve seen Daniel Hargrave in action. You’ve also seen him in Atomic Blonde, Hunger Games and in dozens of other films and television shows. You just didn’t know it. The UNC Wilmington grad has become one of the sought-after stunt performers in the business. Here is the story of how it almost didn’t happen.
2019-08-2446 min
1on1 with Jon EvansSydney Schneider: Making soccer history as one of the ‘Reggae Girlz’Sydney Schneider said ‘no’ the first time she got the call. But when she received a second invitation to join the Jamaican women’s national soccer team known as the ‘Reggae Girlz’, Sydney accepted. Years later that decision, along with her talent and hard work, helped Sydney become part of soccer history on the world’s biggest stage: the 2019 Women’s World Cup.
2019-08-0336 min
1on1 with Jon EvansWorking Narratives: Giving voice and power to the forgottenSome communities have recovered from the devastation of Hurricane Florence. For others, the recovery may never end. Working Narratives, a non-profit group from Wilmington, received grant funding to ensure stories are told during the healing process, and the flow of vital information reaches the often forgotten areas in rural North Carolina.
2019-07-1932 min
1on1 with Jon EvansSuzanne McCormick: How she fell in love with the idea of serviceFor two years, Suzanne McCormick knew what it’s like to be ‘different’. The Peace Corps assignment taught lessons she never learned in school about humility and service to those in need. The New Hanover High and Duke University grad has turned that passion into a career of service, leading to her new position as U.S. President for United Way Worldwide.
2019-07-0634 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBoubacar Aw: A success story both on and off the courtHe walked off the plane in 1993 as a 17-year-old who did not know anyone and did not understand English. Five years after arriving in the United States from Senegal, Boubacar Aw had graduated college with honors and set off on a pro basketball career. Now two decades later, Boubacar is the teacher and the coach, giving back what he received to help today’s students achieve the same success on and off the court.
2019-06-2256 min
1on1 with Jon EvansGannon Medwick: Why it only takes one storm to make a differenceNo matter what the experts predict will happen during the 2019 hurricane season, Gannon Medwick tells viewers it only takes one storm to make a difference in their lives. WECT’s Chief Meteorologist talks about the lessons learned from the most recent tropical systems to impact the Cape Fear area, Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Florence in 2018, and how those lessons should help residents prepare for whatever Mother Nature sends to the North Carolina coast.
2019-06-0844 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJosh Bonifay: His baseball life from batboy to the front officeHe learned from a famous father. He hung around all-stars and Hall of Famers. He earned a college scholarship and a chance at a professional baseball career. The game then became a job for Josh Bonifay. Now 20 years after playing for his “second father” at UNC Wilmington, Josh is taking on a new challenge with the Philadelphia Phillies, helping a new generation of players chase the same major league dream.
2019-05-2539 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJason Fosdick: How demo reels in pizza boxes launched Foz’s careerJason Fosdick grew up loving music on the radio. It’s ironic that years later, a radio commercial would start Jason on his way toward an award-winning career in the industry. It didn’t come easy, but ultimately his idea of putting demo reels in pizza boxes paid off. “Foz” has now spent 15 years waking up Wilmington on Z107.5, and he has no plans of slowing down.
2019-05-1149 min
1on1 with Jon EvansJohn Ingram: Sheriff says law enforcement he started in no longer existsNo one in John Ingram’s family had worked in law enforcement before he earned a deputy’s badge. He carries the memories of personal loss, using it to warn young people about the dangers of drinking and driving. Rising through the ranks to become sheriff of Brunswick County, John has seen new developments in the tools and technology used to solve crimes, while leading young men and women who face new challenges and threats to public safety.
2019-04-2742 min
1on1 with Jon EvansLester Holt: Why an image from Hurricane Florence is still on his iPhoneLester Holt has traveled the world covering stories for NBC News. In September 2018, the job brought him to Wilmington as Hurricane Florence lashed out at the North Carolina coast. As the storm raged on, Lester witnessed firefighters feverishly working to rescue a trapped couple and their infant daughter. The veteran reporter recalls what unfolded that day, and the touching images he still carries months later.
2019-04-1328 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBriana Venskus: Ready to put a new face on the 2019 Azalea FestivalWilmington-born actress Briana Venskus has landed roles on popular television shows including The Walking Dead, Grace and Frankie, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Nashville. In her next role as Queen of the 2019 North Carolina Azalea Festival, Briana wants to honor the tradition of the event, while breaking new ground for the LGBT community.
2019-03-3032 min
1on1 with Jon EvansWebb Simpson: Pro golfer talks faith, family and love of the coastWebb Simpson grew up in Raleigh but learned the game of golf in Wilmington. He’s walked a lot of golf courses since then, winning tournaments as an amateur and a professional, including the U.S. Open in 2012. Webb says his golf game and his life changed when he started walking with Jesus Christ. The 33-year-old credits that personal relationship for his success at work and at home.
2019-03-1627 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDamian Brezinski: Using medicine & music to ‘Keep the Beat Alive’Damian Brezinski has used all kinds of equipment to save lives, including stethoscopes, stents, defibrillators and guitar picks. Whether it’s teaching some of the biggest names in the music industry (Kenny Chesney, Def Leppard, Justin Bieber, Maroon Five) how to do CPR, or inserting balloons into a patient’s artery to treat heart disease, Damian has made it his life’s work to keep the heartbeat, and the music beat, alive.
2019-03-0255 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMick Mixon: Behind the mic with the Panthers' play-by-play manGrowing up in Chapel Hill, all “Little Mickey” Mixon wanted to be was a sports announcer. He’s done it now for almost four decades. Mick has gone from doing early interviews with his dog, to calling Final Fours with the UNC Tar Heels, to doing play-by-play of a Super Bowl with the NFL's Carolina Panthers. We go behind the microphone to learn about the man with the familiar voice, who has made a career of painting pictures with his words.
2019-02-1643 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDevontae Cacok: How a broken wrist started his record-setting basketball careerDevontae Cacok has always loved sports. Football was Devontae’s favorite sport, until he broke his wrist in middle school. That injury, a growth spurt, and a coach’s invitation led Devontae to basketball. He earned a scholarship to UNC Wilmington, and now has his name etched in the school’s record books. But the 6’7” senior is just as driven to succeed off the court.
2019-02-0247 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMaureen O’Boyle: An anchor’s career of telling stories, including her ownMaureen O’Boyle has told thousands of stories in her almost 40 years of broadcasting. She’s anchored local TV newscasts from coast-to-coast, and the nationally syndicated newsmagazines A Current Affair and Extra. By telling her own stories of surviving a vicious sexual assault, and fighting to keep her attacker in prison, Maureen has changed the lives of countless other victims across the country.
2019-01-191h 00
1on1 with Jon EvansKristen Dalton Wolfe: Former Miss USA helps women find "The Sparkle Effect"Kristen Dalton Wolfe dreamed of being Miss USA. When she won the title in 2009, Kristen realized that achievement did not bring the fulfillment she needed. Realizing she wore another crown paved the way for Kristen’s success as a model, television host, motivational speaker and author. Kristen’s new book, The Sparkle Effect, seeks to help women overcome the feelings of insecurity and self-doubt she battled while growing up in Wilmington.
2019-01-0544 min
1on1 with Jon EvansRoy Cooper: Reflects on his first two years as Governor of North CarolinaRoy Cooper was not a novice politician when he was sworn-in as the 75th governor of North Carolina. He quickly learned the demands of the state's top job. Gov. Cooper talks about facing challenges in his first two years that include HB2, GenX, deadly Hurricanes Matthew and Florence, and a legislature with enough strength to make his vetoes virtually meaningless.
2018-12-2220 min
1on1 with Jon EvansCasey Roman: 'Clearing the Air" about lawsuits against hog farmsCasey Roman has produced award-winning documentaries and special reports in her reporting career at WECT-TV. She's tackled opioid addiction, homelessness, panhandling and other crime-related issues. Her latest effort centers around lawsuits filed against hog farms over nuisance-related issues like odors, flies, buzzards and trucks, ultimately pitting neighbor against neighbor.
2018-12-0835 min
1on1 with Jon EvansSheri Lynch: Radio co-host has risen to overcome challenges, and likes life’s view from hereSheri Lynch has co-hosted the ‘Bob and Sheri” radio show for more than a quarter-century. It’s syndicated in dozens of markets across the country, and heard around the world on Armed Forces Radio Network. But Sheri’s road to professional success had some bumps along the way, personal challenges she worked hard to overcome. Listen to this revealing conversation with an award-winning broadcaster who also spends time as a Mom, wife, author, blogger, advocate and social worker.
2018-11-0345 min
1on1 with Jon EvansAlexis Smith: CF Ambassador helps others living with cystic fibrosisAlexis Smith spent years keeping her disease a secret. Only her closest friends knew she had cystic fibrosis. Alexis admits, she was not the perfect patient. It wasn’t until she graduated high school that Alexis accepted her situation. Now as a CF Ambassador, the 28-year-old uses her life experience to help other patients and families cope with the stress of CF, while educating others on the toll the disease can take.
2018-10-1341 min
1on1 with Jon EvansMitchell Slaggert: Meteoric rise from college student to famous faceMitchell Slaggert was walking to class at Cape Fear Community College in 2015 when a stranger, and fate, tapped him on the shoulder. Weeks later, Mitchell was modeling Calvin Klein underwear, appearing on runways and in magazines around the world. He has also appeared in several films and television shows, studying to take his acting career to the next level.
2018-09-2940 min
1on1 with Jon EvansDaniel Peddle: Artist, Filmmaker gets inspiration from trips to Carolina BeachSuccess? Daniel Peddle has achieved it on many levels. Casting Director, artist, filmmaker, author. The native of Winston-Salem graduated from UNC Chapel Hill before setting up in New York City. He’s screened films in Wilmington, and discovered an underwear model here too. But when Daniel needs inspiration, and a backdrop for his most recent project, he's chosen Carolina Beach.
2018-08-1846 min
1on1 with Jon EvansBill Vassar: Studio Exec’s career spans nearly 50 yearsAs Executive Vice-President of EUE/Screen Gems Studios in Wilmington, Bill Vassar runs the largest full-service film and television production facility east of California. Vassar got his start in radio as a teenager, worked at NBC Studios in New York with David Letterman and Saturday Night Live, before joining EUE/Screen Gems. He later moved to the North Carolina coast, seeing productions like One Tree Hill, Iron Man 3 and Good Behavior use his studio.
2018-08-111h 02