Shows
The Foxfire Dispatch2.6 The Stanley Shuffle: When Democracy Takes a Back SeatIn 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 re...
2025-12-261h 04
The Foxfire Dispatch2.5 TFD Interviews Paul BarringerIn 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...
2025-12-191h 03
The Foxfire Dispatch2.4 TFD Interviews Sydnie HutchinsonIn 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 st...
2025-12-051h 44
The Foxfire Dispatch2.3 Bonus Ep! Part 1 of The Night After: NC Elections w/ Left of Old NorthIn 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...
2025-11-2853 min
The Foxfire Dispatch2.2 TFD Interviews James WhalenIn 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...
2025-11-211h 06
Left of Old NorthThe Night After the 2025 NC Elections w/ The Foxfire DispatchThis week, Left of Old North teams up with The Foxfire Dispatch for a special crossover episode! We’re joined by Liz Purvis, organizer, activist, and host of The Foxfire Dispatch, for a deep dive into the epic wins from this year’s elections — in North Carolina and across the country. From local races that flipped seats in tough districts to national victories for progressives, we break down what went right, what it says about the momentum building, and how grassroots organizing turned frustration into power. If you needed proof that people power still works — this is it.
2025-11-0753 min
The Foxfire Dispatch2.1 The Night After: NC Elections 2025 w/ Left of Old North, Part 2In 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...
2025-11-071h 05
The Foxfire Dispatch22. TFD Interviews Hannah Preston, Founder of Influence NCIn 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.
2025-10-3156 min
The Foxfire Dispatch21. TFD: Haunted Tar Heel Trails EditionIn 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...
2025-10-2414 min
The Foxfire Dispatch20. Hatch Act + Endorsements MinisodeWelcome 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...
2025-10-1740 min
The Foxfire Dispatch19. The Bar is in HellIn 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 Thr...
2025-10-1052 min
The Foxfire Dispatch18. TFD Interviews Commissioner Nida Allam of Durham, Part 1In 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...
2025-10-031h 06
The Foxfire Dispatch17. That Blows: No Prescription for DemocracyIn 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...
2025-09-2654 min
The Foxfire Dispatch16. TFD Interviews Mayor Preston Blakely of FletcherThis 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.
2025-09-191h 12
The Foxfire Dispatch15. No Budget, All Excuses - the NCGA’s GOP StandoffIn 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.
2025-09-1251 min
The Foxfire Dispatch14. Labor Fights and Human RightsIn 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 challeng...
2025-09-0444 min
The Foxfire Dispatch13. "Possibility in Their Backyards" TFD Interviews NCDP Chair Anderson ClaytonIn 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...
2025-08-2946 min
The Foxfire Dispatch12. Carolina Forward, Bernie StyleJoin 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
2025-08-2237 min
The Foxfire Dispatch11. The Fight for Our Maps and BodiesIn 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...
2025-08-1554 min
The Foxfire Dispatch10. Cooper Runs, Veto Overrides, & A Very Nice DinnerIn 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...
2025-08-081h 00
The Foxfire Dispatch9. TFD Interviews Theo Nollert, Chapel Hill, NC Town CouncilmemberOn 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.
2025-08-0157 min
The Foxfire Dispatch8. TFD Interviews Dalton George, Mayor Pro Tem of Boone, NCJoin 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.
2025-07-251h 11
The Thriving MompreneurNavigating Meltdowns: Proactive Strategies for Parents of Neurodivergent KidsJoin Liz Kent on this episode of The Thriving Mompreneur as she chats with Lianna Purvis, a therapist and parenting coach specializing in supporting parents of neurodivergent children. Lianna sheds light on why meltdowns often seem to "come out of nowhere" for neurodivergent kids, explaining the concept of a "slow burn" of sensory and emotional buildup. She offers practical, proactive strategies for identifying triggers, helping kids decompress, and fostering open communication. This episode is a must-listen for any parent looking to understand and reduce meltdowns while strengthening their family dynamics.Key Takeaways
2025-07-2221 min
The Foxfire Dispatch7. BBQ, Ballots, Bad Faith BillsIn 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...
2025-07-1846 min
The Foxfire Dispatch6. Front Porch Politics: NC Municipal Election SpecialDive 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!
2025-07-1156 min
The Foxfire Dispatch5. TFD Takes on NC Shrimpgate? Plus, an Interview with Reyna Walters-Morgan, DNC Vice ChairDive 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...
2025-07-041h 00
The Foxfire Dispatch4. Signed, Sealed, Socialist? Exploring Our Political IdentitiesIn 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...
2025-06-271h 02
The Foxfire Dispatch2. Welcome to The Foxfire DispatchIn 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...
2025-06-2034 min
The Foxfire Dispatch3. Bless This Messy LegislatureIn 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.
2025-06-2039 min
The Foxfire Dispatch1. The Foxfire Dispatch Reacts to #NoKings DayIn 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.
2025-06-2052 min
The Foxfire DispatchIntro to The Foxfire DispatchThe 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.
2025-06-1900 min
Oh Crumbs - The Gluten Free PodcastLiz Purvis - Celebrating Coeliacs of Colour & Advocating for Equal RepresentationThis week we spoke to Liz Purvis, an awesome content creator who is a gluten free content creator in the US who is advocating for better representation and health equality in coeliac disease. We spoke to Liz about how she founded the Celiacs of Color Collective, and about studies which suggest coeliac disease is under diagnosed in people of colour.Liz also talked about her GERD and IBS diagnoses and how she’s on a mission to visit every single gluten free bakery across the States. Sarah and Laura xxUSEFUL LINKS:
2025-06-1241 min
ArtyPartiPublishing at the Lit & PhilIn an earlier episode, we met the founder of the new Sunderland Lit and Phil Society, Auburn Langley. This group now host monthly panel discussions - talking about issues and challenges that affect people in Sunderland across a range of sectors. From now onwards, they’re in Pop Recs, but we were there for last month’s Lit and Phil in the place where the original society used to meet - the Abject Gallery upstairs in the Athenaeum building.With a focus on publishing, last month’s panel discussed the challenges facing the publishing indust...
2025-04-221h 03
Celiac Straight Talk83: Talking About Celiac with Liz Purvis from @yeet.that.wheatLiz (@yeet.that.wheat) has been living with celiac disease for 4 years and creates content focusing on health equity, advocacy, and living a fulfilling gluten free life. She uses her experience as a Black woman with celiac to talk about being gluten free through an intersectional lens. Through social media, she aims to create a supportive community for folks who are navigating living gluten free through educational posts, recipes, product recommendations, restaurant reviews, travel, tips and tricks, and of course, memes. In this casual conversation, Liz chats about her jump to social media upon her celiac disease d...
2024-05-1356 minCeliac Straight Talk74: Living Your Best Gluten-Free LifeThis is a recording of the "Living Your Best Gluten-Free Life" panel from our 2023 Community Summity. It features four gluten-free influencers, Phil, Liz, Erin and Emily, discussing how they've tackled their health conditions and thrived on the gluten-free diet. Phil is the creator behind @PhilHatesGluten, a popular TikTok and Instagram account. He uses humor to allieviate the burden of managing eosinophilic esophagitis. Liz Purvis is a celiac disease advocate and content creator (@yeet.that.wheat on Instagram and TikTok) living with celiac disease. Her content focuses on health equity and her experience as a Black wo...
2023-10-3059 min
2 Adoptive MamasUnderstanding Attachment in Any Season of Parenting with Dr. Lark EshlemanThe Main Thing: Attachment is a buzz-word in the adoption and foster care community. Recent research and conversation has brought this important theory to the forefront. If you've been walking the adoptive and foster journey for a while, chances are you've heard a lot about the four different attachment styles and why childhood experiences are important to learn. But how do you fit it into your day to day? Parenting with an attachment-based approach takes practice and dedication. It's a perspective shift. And it's life-changing. Dr. Lark Eshleman is an expert in attachment trauma...
2023-10-0333 min
As I Remember It: Bertie Ahern & The Good Friday AgreementEpisode 7: Two DaysWithin months of the Good Friday Agreement, two significant days - in May and August 1998 - put the peace process to the test but ultimately demonstrated how far the people of Northern Ireland had come.
In this episode, Bertie speaks to those who campaigned in the referendum that was held on 22nd May 1998, including Tony Blair, Dawn Purvis, and Monica McWilliams while Martin Mansergh explains the delicate planning behind the constitutional changes that were put to the people on the same day in the Republic.
Just a few months later, the hard-fought-for peace was jeopardised when the biggest single atrocity...
2023-03-0940 min
Red LinesGFA#2 Women of the hourMark Carruthers is joined by Bronagh Hinds, one of the founding members of the Women's Coalition, Dawn Purvis, a former MLA and leader of the Progressive Unionist Party, Kathleen Stephens, the former US Consul General in Belfast and Liz O’Donnell, a former Progressive Democrat TD and Minister of State in the Department of Foreign Affairs plus of course Mark Simpson who was the BBC Political Correspondent covering the negotiations.
2023-02-2252 min
2 Adoptive MamasMeeting Needs When Living with Loss with Erin BouchardThe Main Thing: Episode 022 provided an opportunity for us to connect with Erin Bouchard. She’s a mama with a really special story touched by foster care and adoption and is passionate about resourcing parents in the trenches. Erin joined us to talk about kinship adoption, trauma-informed parenting, and how to seek out resources in our communities so we are supported and equipped!Episode Resources:Erin shared so much goodness with us in Episode 022 --- and we have more here for you too! You can find Erin at traumainformedfosterparenting.co...
2021-06-2929 min
Country Squire RadioThe End of an EraThis episode of Country Squire Radio is brought to you by Missouri Meerschaum and the Tin Society. We thank them for supporting this show, and we thank you for supporting them.
Episode 238: The End of an Era
Welcome & Housekeeping: Jon David laments on the busy-ness but celebrates the shop’s success with the IPSD sale over the past week. The Country Squire also had 2 pipe pilgrimages on the same day! The NOLA Pipe Club (members Mark Van Vrancken, Jared Purvis, and Ryan Smith) made a trip to Jackson, and two guys from the Austin Texas Pipe Club (Josh White and Za...
2018-02-2856 min