Episodes

June 22, 2026

Mayor Robert Burns Unfiltered: Nonpartisan Elections, Data Centers, and Political Pushback

Welcome to another edition of the Carolina Cabinet, Cumberland County's smartest hour of talk radio. This afternoon, Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler are joined by a particularly outspoken and dynamic guest: Mayor Robert Burns of Monroe, North Carolina. Known for winning one of the state's closest mayoral elections by a coin toss and for his unapologetically conservative leadership style, Robert Burns has become one of the most talked-about local elected officials in North Carolina. In this episod...
June 4, 2026

Cumberland County Growth, Teacher Raises, and Data Centers Explained

Are you ready to catch up on North Carolina’s hottest stories with a local perspective you can trust? The Carolina Cabinet is BACK with powerful conversations about the issues shaping our state and Cumberland County. Hosts Peter Pappas and Laura Musler dig into hot topics like: The real impact of immigration policy and spending North Carolina’s big education budget changes—what it means for teachers and parents Local insights on property taxes, housing, and community growth Behind-the-scenes sco...
June 3, 2026

Isabel Garcia Schmidt: Army Spouse of the Year on Community, Resilience, and Opportunity

Meet Isabel Garcia Schmidt! 🌟 Ever wondered how military families thrive through constant moves and career transitions? On this week’s episode of Carolina Cabinet , we spotlight resilience, entrepreneurship, and real solutions for today’s military community! Join Peter Pappas, Laura Mussler, and special guest Isabel Garcia Schmidt, the 2026 Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year, as she shares: How she built a thriving business supporting military relocations Her journey from Army office...
May 17, 2026

Tom Hatch on School Equity, and Fixing Cumberland County Education

🎙️ New Episode: Dive Into the Realities of Education in Cumberland County! Join us on the latest episode of the Carolina Cabinet as Tom Hatch, a veteran educator and "fixer" of local schools, breaks down the real issues facing our schools today. From the true meaning behind "a sound basic education" to the politics and personalities influencing our school board, this episode pulls back the curtain on public education like never before. You’ll learn: Why decades-old lawsuits like Leandro still ma...
May 15, 2026

Lenny Friedman Explains Forward Party Solutions for NC

Are You Frustrated With Politics as Usual in North Carolina? Step inside the Carolina Cabinet —Cumberland County’s smartest hour of talk radio! Join Peter Pappas, Laura Mussler, and special guest Lennie Friedman of the NC Forward Party as they tackle hot-button political issues: Independent movements shaking up the status quo What’s really going on with gerrymandering and legislative gridlock New revelations about crime and recidivism in NC Real talk about building political bridges and making Y...
May 11, 2026

Peter and Laura Dissect NC Teacher Protests and Taxes

🎙️ Don’t Miss the Latest Carolina Cabinet Episode! 🎙️ This week on Carolina Cabinet , Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler dive into Fayetteville’s hottest issues—from heated debates on property taxes and educating the next generation to what really happened at North Carolina’s teacher rallies. Hear unfiltered conservative takes, behind-the-scenes stories from city halls, and debates that aren’t afraid to cross party lines—plus info on must-attend community events like the Running for the Roses Kentuc...
April 21, 2026

Partisan Divide: Examining County Politics, Board Actions, and Community Voices

🎙️ Ready for the smartest hour in Carolina talk radio? Dive into this week's energetic episode of Carolina Cabinet with Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler! From behind-the-scenes local politics and juicy Board of Elections stories to no-filter debates on fiscal responsibility, election integrity, and the real issues shaping Fayetteville and Cumberland County, our hosts pull no punches—while keeping it witty and real. 🔥 Want the inside scoop on: What REALLY goes on in Raleigh’s legislative sessions? ...
April 19, 2026

Tax Day Survival, Local News, and the Data Center Dilemma

🎙️ Carolina Cabinet: Tune in to Cumberland County’s Smartest Hour of Talk! It’s Tax Day, it’s hot topics, and it’s a no-holds-barred hour with Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler—just the two of them, unscripted, unfiltered, and ready to tackle everything you’re talking about in Fayetteville and beyond. From navigating tax tips (without landing in orange!) to exposing local government secrets, and even candid takes on hot-button politics—this episode delivers both laughs and inside scoops. 🔥 Why list...
April 17, 2026

Olivia Cook on Fostering Unity and Local Partnerships

🌟 New Episode Alert: "The Carolina Cabinet" — Building Stronger Communities, One Conversation at a Time! 🌟 Are you ready for straight talk, strong opinions, and real discussions about the issues shaping our communities, our state, and our country? Dive into the latest episode of The Carolina Cabinet, where Peter Pappas, Laura Mussler, and special guest Olivia Cook offer compelling insights you won’t hear anywhere else! 🎙️ In this episode: The truth behind local economics: Is your grocery bill re...
April 17, 2026

Spotlight on Dogwood Festival: Director Kaylynn Suarez Discusses Growth and Community

🌸 Get Ready for Spring at the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival! 🌸 Join thousands of families, friends, and fun-seekers at Cumberland County’s biggest spring event – the legendary Dogwood Festival, happening April 24th–26th in downtown Fayetteville! Experience a weekend of free concerts, delicious food trucks, a vibrant kids zone, local vendors, and so much more . Hear the inside scoop from Caitlyn Suarez, Dogwood Festival Director, as she joins Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler on the latest episode o...
April 17, 2026

Easter, Iran, and Election Drama: Unpacking Current Events with the Carolina Cabinet

🎙️ New Episode of Carolina Cabinet! 🎙️ Dive into the hottest issues shaping North Carolina & beyond with Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler! From breaking down global headlines to unpacking heated local controversies, this week’s episode brings you unfiltered opinions, sharp debates, and a dash of fun. 🚨 This episode covers: The drama behind local board elections—find out what’s really happening behind closed doors (Laura Mussler and Peter Pappas dig deep at 06:17) How America and Iran’s standoff co...
April 17, 2026

Inside Cumberland County: Schools, Infrastructure, and Nonprofit Oversight

🎙️ Ready to Get Smart About Local Issues? Tune in to Carolina Cabinet ! Looking for unapologetically real, sharp, and entertaining coverage of Fayetteville and Cumberland County’s hottest topics? Each week, Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler break down what matters most—public safety, education, local politics, infrastructure, and those behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else. 👉 Whether you want the inside scoop on school funding, want to know why your strawberries cost more, or need ...
April 17, 2026

Lennie Friedman and the Forward Party Vision for North Carolina

🌟 Is North Carolina ready to shake up politics? 🌟 On this week’s episode of the Carolina Cabinet , Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler sit down with Lenny Friedman, Vice Chair of the NC Forward Party, to talk about bold ideas that could break the gridlock and get our state working for the people —not just the parties. From the NFL trenches to the front lines of American politics, Lenny Friedman brings a refreshing perspective on: What the Forward Party really stands for (it’s more than just a “third ...
March 29, 2026

Show #213 - Carolina Cabinet Election Recap: Surprises, Turnout, and the Road to November

Welcome back to the Carolina Cabinet, where Cumberland County’s smartest hour of talk radio digs deep into the latest political buzz. In this episode, host Peter Pappas and co-host Laura Mussler roll up their sleeves to break down all the action and surprises from the recent election results. From the early morning grind of election day to the big upsets and expected wins, they dissect the high-stakes U.S. Senate and House primaries, local sheriff and commission races, and even touch on what the...
March 29, 2026

Show #214 - Cumberland County GOP Shakeup, National Tensions, and Local Voices Unpacked

Welcome to another episode of the Carolina Cabinet! In this edition, host Peter Pappas and co-host Laura Mussler dive deep into the latest shakeups and intriguing moments from the recent Cumberland County GOP Convention. From the razor-thin margins in the primary race between Senate Leader Phil Berger and Sheriff Sam Page, to the evolving grassroots versus establishment battle within the party, this episode is packed with honest commentary, local insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at how par...
March 29, 2026

Show #215 - Lennie Friedman On : The Forward Party, Ranked Choice Voting, and Election Reform

Welcome back to the Carolina Cabinet—your smartest hour of talk radio in Cumberland County and beyond. On today’s episode, we’re taking a fresh look at North Carolina politics with a unique guest who’s tackled challenges from the NFL gridiron to the trenches of American elections: Lennie Friedman, Vice Chair of the North Carolina Forward Party. Joining Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler in the studio, Lennie Friedman shares his journey from Duke Blue Devil to NFL veteran, and now to political reform...
March 29, 2026

Show #216 - Chairman Kirk Deviere on the State of the County

The conversation covers a range of topics including the state of the county address, community engagement, investment in infrastructure, funding models, education funding, school board oversight, and water and sewer management. The discussion also delves into the challenges of community investment, the debate on an aquatic center, and the impact of PFAS contamination on water resources. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community involvement, responsible budget allocation, and the ne...
March 29, 2026

Show #194 - Brenee Orozco Talks Law, Family, and Why She’s Running for District Court Judge

Welcome back to the Carolina Cabinet! In this episode, hosts Peter Pappas, Joshua Goodman, and Laura Mussler are joined by special guest Brenee Orosco, a seasoned attorney and candidate for district court judge in Cumberland County. The conversation dives into Brenee’s diverse background in family law, juvenile justice, and her experiences both in and out of the courtroom—from her service as an Army cook to her career as an Assistant Attorney General. You’ll hear honest perspectives on the reali...
March 29, 2026

Show #193 - Joe Bailer’s Plans for Sheriff, Jail Reform, and Youth Mentoring

Welcome to the Carolina Cabinet! In this episode, host Peter Pappas is joined by co-host Laura Mussler for an in-depth conversation with Joe Bailer, candidate for Cumberland County Sheriff. They dive into Joe’s background—from growing up in Fayetteville, his military police career, and his current role as Director of Public Safety at Fayetteville Tech. Joe shares his vision for reforming the sheriff’s department, focusing on community engagement, mentorship programs for youth, and addressing cha...
March 29, 2026

Show #192 - Inside the Race: Elizabeth Ann Temple on MAGA, Equality, and a Money-Free Campaign

Welcome to another episode of Carolina Cabinet, Cumberland County's smartest hour of talk radio, recorded live from the WFAY and WMRV studios. In this enlightening conversation, host Peter Pappas and co-host Laura Musler welcome a special guest: Elizabeth Ann Temple, U.S. Senate candidate from Smithfield, North Carolina. With roots in North Carolina and a background in education and music, Elizabeth Ann Temple brings a unique perspective to the table. This episode dives into her motivations for ...
March 29, 2026

Show #191 - Sherry Miller for Judge: A Local Perspective on Courts, Community, and Change

Welcome to the Carolina Cabinet—the smartest hour of conservative talk radio in Fayetteville and Cumberland County. In this episode, hosts Peter Pappas and Laura Musler are joined by Sherry Miller, Fayetteville native, family law attorney, and candidate for District Court Judge. The show opens with highlights from local GOP events and Laura Musler’s new role as First Vice Chair. From there, the conversation dives into President Trump’s proposal to ban large investors from snatching up single-fam...
March 29, 2026

Show #190 - Challenging the Status Quo: Caitlin Marsh’s Journey to the NC Senate

Welcome to the Carolina Cabinet, the only homegrown conservative talk radio show in the region, where Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler bring you smart, lively conversations from the heart of North Carolina. In this episode, we’re joined by Caitlin Marsh, Republican candidate for NC Senate District 10 in Johnston County, aka "Goose," as she shares her vision, her passion for local issues, and her journey from single mom and domestic violence survivor to candidate on the ballot. We dive deep into th...
March 29, 2026

Show #189 - New Year, No Kings: Political Drama from Arizona to Venezuela

Welcome back to the Carolina Cabinet! This episode brings together Peter Pappas and Laura Mussler for a spirited discussion of current events and local headlines. Kicking off the new year, they reflect on personal growth, strategies for tackling 2026 and beyond, and the role of automation in simplifying daily routines. As the conversation turns to national news, Peter Pappas and Laura take a closer look at the unfolding controversy surrounding Senator Mark Kelly, questioning the boundaries betwe...
184
March 26, 2026

Show #184 - The Cabinet Talks Election Eve Predictions

The Carolina Cabinet radio show covers a range of topics, including local politics, elections, and environmental issues. The hosts discuss recent news, election candidates, and the impact of corporate actions on the community. They also touch on the importance of civic engagement and the challenges faced by local leaders. The conversation covers a range of topics including local elections, political parties, civic duty, town management, holiday celebrations, and more. The hosts share personal an...
Send a Voicemail