Beyond the Bar: Exploring People and Places That Shape North Carolina

Ben Whitley
  • 5.0 (9)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Hosted by Ben Whitley, Beyond the Bar shines a spotlight on the people, places, and organizations that make North Carolina unique. From inspiring stories to discussions about culture and community, Beyond the Bar goes deeper than the courtroom to explore the heart of North Carolina.

Episodes

  1. JAN 18

    Inside the Cockpit

    Pilot Nick Messina joins Ben Whitley to break down the art of flying. Nick discusses how his aspiration to become a helicopter firefighter ultimately led him to a career as a pilot. Drawing from his experience teaching aviation, ferrying aircraft, and chartering flights, Nick offers reassuring insight into how pilots approach safety and flight operations.

    21 min

  2. 12/21/2025

    Inspiring the Next Generation of Civic Leaders

    North Carolina native Erica Gallion joins Beyond the Bar to share her passion for youth advocacy and civic engagement. As a lifelong resident of the state and a leader within the North Carolina Youth Legislative Assembly, Erica discusses how her work with SAFE Harnett County and the Superkids Scholarship Program has shaped her commitment to empowering young people. In this episode, Erica dives into the importance of getting kids interested in government at an early age, breaking down barriers to civic participation, and helping students see themselves as future leaders. Her experiences offer an inspiring look at how community involvement, education, and mentorship can spark interest in public service and strengthen the future of our state.

    24 min

  3. 10/26/2025

    Beyond the Broadcaster

    Ben Whitley welcomes North Carolina native and radio personality Erica DeLong of The Erica Show to the podcast. Together, they talk about her roots in Durham, how she built her career in radio, and what brought her back home after years in major markets. Erica shares the real highs and lows of life on air, along with her favorite self-care strategies for staying grounded while juggling a busy schedule.

    21 min

  4. 09/28/2025

    More Than Real Estate

    Ben sits down with Raleigh real estate legend Marshall Rich for a conversation about growing up in North Carolina and how those roots shaped his career. Together, they explore the Triangle’s rapid growth and what it means for the community, from housing trends to challenges. Marshall also shares practical advice for navigating today’s real estate market, offering insights buyers can use in a changing economy.

    24 min

  5. 09/14/2025

    The Making of a Judge

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a judge? Or what judges really think about our legal system? In this episode, Superior Court Judge Keith Gregory takes us behind the bench to share his journey from waiting tables and writing poetry to presiding over North Carolina's most serious cases. It’s an inside look at the challenges, responsibilities, and values that guide judges as they work to keep the system fair for everyone.

    31 min

  6. 08/31/2025

    Roots and Rifts: Growing Up in a Changing North Carolina

    On the first episode of Beyond the Bar, Ben Whitley sits down with John McCann of North Carolina Black Alliance. Ben and John discuss growing up in North Carolina and the generational differences they experience that has led to a polarizing political climate.

    24 min
  • 6 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Hosted by Ben Whitley, Beyond the Bar shines a spotlight on the people, places, and organizations that make North Carolina unique. From inspiring stories to discussions about culture and community, Beyond the Bar goes deeper than the courtroom to explore the heart of North Carolina.

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