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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Angus King III — Part Two

“There’s A Lot Of Grit In The Gears.” — How Regulation And Red Tape Are Making It Harder To Do Business In Maine.

In Part Two of Q-Point Podcast, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Angus King III continues the conversation with a wide-ranging discussion on Maine’s business climate, regulatory environment, and the practical challenges facing employers, entrepreneurs, and communities across the state.

King describes what he calls “grit in the gears” — the accumulated friction created by permitting delays, regulatory complexity, and administrative burdens that make it harder for businesses to locate, expand, and operate in Maine. He points to real-world examples, including multi-year permitting timelines and businesses choosing other states due to regulatory hurdles, while emphasizing that Maine’s quality of life remains among the best in the nation.

The conversation explores how regulatory decisions disproportionately affect small businesses, which make up the vast majority of Maine employers, and how even minor paperwork requirements can compound across thousands of businesses. King argues that improving coordination, streamlining processes, and creating clearer points of entry for businesses could help Maine better compete while still protecting its natural resources and communities.

Beyond the business climate, the episode also touches on leadership philosophy, executive versus legislative experience, economic development, workforce challenges, and how state government can better align policy with real-world practice. King discusses his view of the governor’s role as a chief executive focused on execution, accountability, and bringing people together to get results.

📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App).
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Angus King III — Part One

“Life’s Just Become Too Hard For Too Many Folks Here In Maine …” — King On Why He Entered The Race

In Part One of Corenna and David Quirk’s conversation with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Angus King III, he explains why he entered the race, arguing that Maine is at a moment where everyday costs, housing shortages, healthcare strain, and energy affordability are making life harder for too many people across the state. Drawing on his background—from early political work and time in the White House to a career spent building affordable housing and large-scale energy projects—King outlines the perspective he says he brings to governing: practical problem-solving with a focus on results.

A central focus of the conversation is Maine’s housing challenge, which King reframes as a housing opportunity. He describes regulatory complexity, lengthy permitting processes, and disconnected state systems as key barriers that drive up costs and slow construction—often making affordable housing harder to build than market-rate homes. King discusses the need for a cultural shift toward “how do we get to yes,” along with better coordination among state agencies, support for municipalities on zoning and planning, and encouragement of innovation in construction, design, and financing.

The discussion then broadens to healthcare and demographic pressures, including workforce shortages, rural hospital closures, aging-in-place needs, and the growing financial impact of dementia care. King emphasizes prevention, public health, and system-wide thinking as ways to improve outcomes while controlling long-term costs. He also addresses challenges within DHHS, stressing that while intentions are good, government must become more responsive and easier for Mainers to navigate.

On energy, King draws on decades of industry experience to outline a systems-level approach focused on affordability, reliability, and accountability for ratepayers. He discusses permitting reform, grid efficiency, renewable energy, and responses to criticism of wind power, emphasizing collaboration among stakeholders and long-term planning. The episode closes with King’s view on bridging partisan divides by focusing on shared priorities, practical solutions, and a bias toward action that puts Maine people first.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine — 101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App).
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Graham Platner — Part Two

“When I Talk About Taxing the Rich, That’s Who We’re Going After.”

In Part Two of the Q-Point Podcast conversation with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, the discussion centers on wealth inequality, federal taxation, and the growing burden placed on working people and small states like Maine. Platner explains what he means by “taxing the rich,” drawing a sharp distinction between ultra-wealthy individuals and multinational corporations versus small business owners, fishermen, and family-run operations. He argues that current tax structures allow extreme wealth to go untaxed through asset borrowing, shifting financial pressure onto states and municipalities.

Platner outlines why Maine continues to experience high property and income taxes, pointing to what he describes as decades of federal retreat from funding infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He makes the case that only the federal government has the capacity to address concentrated corporate and billionaire wealth—and that doing so could ease tax pressure on states, municipalities, and working families.

The conversation turns to Maine’s fisheries and coastal industries, where Platner discusses the lobster industry as a rare example of an economy built around local ownership rather than corporate consolidation. He reflects on the role regulation has played in shaping that model, the challenges fishermen face today, and why he believes long-term thinking is essential for the future of Maine’s working waterfront.

Platner also weighs in on federal regulation, conservation, and economic development, emphasizing the importance of aligning policy with on-the-ground realities. He discusses broader ideas around rebuilding domestic industries, investing in innovation, and thinking more strategically about how Maine’s natural resources can support future growth.

The episode also touches on the Senate committees Platner would seek if elected, why those assignments matter to Maine, and how they align with his broader economic and policy priorities.

Closing the conversation, Platner emphasizes coalition-building across party lines, unscripted town halls, and his belief that rebuilding trust in politics requires long-term thinking, imagination, and genuine engagement with everyday Mainers.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App).
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Graham Platner — Part One

“I Love My Country, But I Don’t Trust My Government.”

In Part One of this in-depth conversation, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner joins Q-Point Podcast to discuss war-making authority, constitutional responsibility, and how his combat experience shaped his political views. A Marine Corps infantryman and later an Army reconnaissance team leader, Platner reflects on deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and explains why he has grown deeply skeptical of U.S. military intervention without clear objectives, congressional authorization, or accountability.

Platner weighs in on the Senate resolution limiting U.S. military action in Venezuela, arguing that Congress has for decades abdicated its constitutional role in declaring war. He speaks candidly about bipartisan political failure, the influence of defense industry interests, and what he sees as a system driven more by expediency than principle. Drawing on firsthand experience from Fallujah, Ramadi, Afghanistan, and later service with the U.S. State Department, he questions whether modern wars have served working Americans—or primarily enriched powerful interests.

The conversation then turns to healthcare, where Platner explains why his experience with VA healthcare informs his support for universal coverage. He outlines how access to reliable healthcare allowed him to become a small business owner and oyster farmer in Maine, and why he believes universal healthcare could unlock economic potential across rural communities. He also addresses hospital closures, Medicaid funding, and the strain on Maine’s healthcare system.

Throughout the episode, Platner emphasizes that his criticism is not aimed at America itself, but at a political and corporate system he believes no longer represents everyday people. He calls for restoring checks and balances, curbing concentrated power, and rebuilding trust through accountability and constitutional governance.

📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & the VOM app).
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Susan Collins — Part Two

“It Clearly Needs an Investigation.” — Collins on Medicaid Billing and Federal Oversight

In Part Two of this wide-ranging conversation, U.S. Senator Susan Collins discusses several major policy and governance issues affecting Maine and the nation. She begins by reflecting on her long-standing leadership on Alzheimer’s research, sharing how personal experience shaped her advocacy and outlining bipartisan efforts to increase research funding and improve early diagnosis and treatment.

Collins also discusses her role as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and how federal funding decisions translate into tangible outcomes for Maine communities. She highlights investments in public safety, emergency response, infrastructure, higher education, childcare expansion, and public health research, and explains why local insight is important when determining how federal resources are allocated.

The conversation then turns to accountability and oversight, including reports of Medicaid overbilling involving Gateway Community Services. Collins explains why she believes the concerns raised warrant investigation and discusses the respective roles of state and federal authorities, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General, in ensuring transparency and proper use of taxpayer funds.

Part Two also addresses broader public safety and enforcement challenges in Maine. Collins describes difficulties faced by local law enforcement when dealing with complex criminal activity and explains why, in some circumstances, federal involvement can provide additional tools and stronger enforcement options. She also discusses the impact of organized crime, housing damage, and drug trafficking on Maine communities.

The episode further includes a discussion of the Social Security Fairness Act, with Collins explaining why correcting long-standing benefit offsets for public servants such as teachers, firefighters, and police officers was important to her. She reflects on the impact the change has had for thousands of Mainers who earned those benefits and why she viewed the issue as a matter of fairness.

The conversation concludes with reflections on bipartisanship, constituent services, seniority and leadership responsibilities in the U.S. Senate, and what experience and continuity can mean for representing Maine.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine) — Saturday at 6:00 AM and Sunday at 6:30 AM.
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represen

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | US Senator Susan Collins — Part One

“Bath Iron Works Is Absolutely Critical to Our Nation’s Security.” — Senator Susan Collins on Maine’s shipyard, Navy readiness, and global threats

In Part One of this in-depth conversation, U.S. Senator Susan Collins joins Q-Point Podcast to discuss national security challenges with direct implications for Maine and the nation. Senator Collins shares her perspective on the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, addressing drug trafficking, narco-terrorism, regional instability, and serious human rights concerns. She also explains the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch when responding to national security threats and the role of oversight under the War Powers framework.

The discussion turns to Maine’s critical role in national defense, with Senator Collins underscoring the importance of Bath Iron Works to Navy readiness, missile defense, and global security as China expands its naval capacity. She highlights the strategic value of Maine-built destroyers, workforce development, and long-term shipbuilding capacity, emphasizing how federal investments support both national security and Maine jobs.

Senator Collins also addresses healthcare challenges facing Maine and the country, including rural hospital sustainability, workforce shortages, and access to care. She outlines federal funding aimed at transforming rural healthcare delivery, supporting emergency services, expanding telemedicine, and helping hospitals remain viable in underserved and island communities. The conversation includes broader healthcare affordability concerns, bipartisan efforts to prevent coverage loss, and policy approaches aimed at lowering insurance costs.

The episode concludes with a discussion on prescription drug pricing, including insulin costs, the role of pharmacy benefit managers, and efforts to ensure negotiated savings are passed directly to consumers. Senator Collins explains why reforming incentives in the pharmaceutical supply chain remains a priority for improving affordability and access to care.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine) at 6:00 AM Saturday and 6:30 AM Sunday.
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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“We Know There’s a Lot of Fraud” — LePage on Audits, Medicaid Overbilling, and Accountability

In Part Two of their conversation, former Maine Governor and Republican congressional candidate Paul LePage continues his discussion with Corenna and David Quirk, focusing on election integrity, government oversight, and accountability in public programs.

LePage raises concerns about unresolved ballot issues and argues that transparency — including third-party audits — is essential to restoring public confidence in Maine’s voting system. He also addresses reports of Medicaid overpayments and alleged misuse of public assistance programs, referencing actions taken during his administration and his belief that proper audits of organizations receiving public funds have not been conducted.

The conversation turns to the broader political climate, including rising hostility, threats against candidates and public officials, and what LePage describes as a breakdown in communication between parties. He calls for leadership capable of restoring dialogue and reducing the escalation of political tensions.

LePage discusses the role of lobbyists in the legislative process, expressing concern about their influence while also acknowledging that they serve as outside voices and play a role in policy development. Drawing on his experience as governor, he explains how the system works in practice, noting that lobbyists exist on both sides of the aisle and that leadership ultimately determines whether collaboration occurs.

As the discussion shifts back to the campaign trail, LePage reflects on voter enthusiasm in Maine’s Second Congressional District and warns against voter disengagement in a midterm election year. He outlines economic pressures facing Maine families, including heating costs, inflation, food prices, property taxes, and education funding, and reiterates his opposition to county bankruptcy proposals, instead calling for structural reforms to jails, public defense systems, and home-rule governance.

📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App).
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Prerecorded. Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience. The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.

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“Affordability. Affordability. Affordability.” — LePage on What Voters Across Maine’s Second Congressional District Are Saying Most

In Part One of this in-studio conversation, former Maine Governor and Republican candidate for Maine’s Second Congressional District Paul LePage returns to Q-Point to discuss what he says voters across the district are telling him most consistently: the rising cost of living is overwhelming families, workers, and small businesses. From energy and food to insurance and housing, LePage argues affordability has become the defining issue in every corner of Maine — from Lewiston to Fort Kent to Washington County.

LePage addresses the impact of lumber tariffs on Maine’s forest economy, explains cross-border lobster processing with Canada, and details his concerns over how funds were distributed following the Lewiston mass shooting. He describes efforts he led to raise and distribute money directly to victims’ families and first responders, and why he believes greater transparency and accountability are needed.

The conversation expands to Maine’s soaring electricity costs, deregulation, solar subsidies, regional nuclear power, and the role of both state and federal policy in driving energy prices higher. LePage outlines his views on immigration enforcement, drug trafficking, and border security, including support for designating Maine as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. He also weighs in on small business pressures, the Family Leave Act, workforce challenges, student loan debt, healthcare costs, education policy, foster care, public safety, and the proper role of government.

This episode captures LePage’s unfiltered perspective on Maine’s economic pressures, public policy failures, and what he believes must change — setting the stage for a deeper continuation in Part Two.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine) at 6:00 AM Saturday and 6:30 AM Sunday.
⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming on QPointPodcast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music & more.
Produced and sponsored by Corenna Quirk, Broker at NextHome Experience.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily represent those of the hosts, Q-Point Podcast associates, or affiliates.

Support the show

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or recommendations of any nature whatsoever, and no warrantee, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy of the information presented is made by your use. The views, information, opinions, comments, and observations of this podcast may not be those of the host or the management, and you entertain and rely on the content presented at your sole risk and responsibility. Your access of this podcast acknowledges that the contents and design are the sole property of the presenter and no use in any shape, manner or form of this podcast may be made without written permission. The presenter of the podcast hereby disclaims any and all responsibility for any and all damages arising out of or related to your use, reference and reliance on podcasts and information presented therein.