Q-POINT

Corenna Quirk | David Quirk

Q-Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, is a nonpartisan platform for candid conversations with policymakers, public officials, and changemakers shaping Maine and the nation. The show goes beyond the headlines, diving deep into policy discussions, current events, personal journeys, proposed legislation, and leadership philosophies. From community leaders to government officials and business executives, guests share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the issues that matter most to Maine and beyond. Guests have included U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Congressman Jared Golden, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, former Congressman Bruce Poliquin, U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, former Maine Governor Paul LePage, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey, Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart, Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton, Penobscot County Assistant DA Chelsea Lynds, NEFSA Director of Advocacy, Jason Joyce, Maine State Chamber President/CEO Patrick Woodcock, along with numerous gubernatorial, congressional, and state candidates. Focused on substance over soundbites, Q-Point Podcast explores the real-world impact of legislative decisions, oversight, and public policy through long-form conversations designed to inform, challenge, and engage listeners. 📻 Broadcast statewide weekend mornings on VOM (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM, or stream anywhere on the VOM App). ⬇️ 🎧 Available anytime at QPointPodcast.com or on all major streaming platforms. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________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. This podcast does not endorse candidates nor should any episode be considered an endorsement.

  1. “We Have Exhausted Our Fund Balances” — Cushing On The Rising Cost Of County Jails - Part ONE

    23H AGO

    “We Have Exhausted Our Fund Balances” — Cushing On The Rising Cost Of County Jails - Part ONE

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Andre Cushing — Part One “We Have Exhausted Our Fund Balances” — Cushing On The Rising Cost Of County Jails In Part One, Andre Cushing, Chair of the Penobscot County Commissioners and President of the Maine County Commissioners Association, joins Corenna and David Quirk in studio to explain how county government works in Maine and why counties are facing growing budget pressure. Cushing outlines the core responsibilities counties oversee, including county jails, 911 emergency call centers, emergency management, and rural law enforcement support. He explains that rising corrections costs now make up roughly 45–50% of a county budget, placing increasing strain on local finances. Penobscot County, he says, has relied on reserve funds for several years to bridge the gap between jail operating costs and available revenue. “We have exhausted our fund balances,” Cushing explains, describing the financial reality that led to a recent county budget increase. The conversation also covers the county’s plan for a modern correctional facility designed to better address the growing number of inmates entering the system with medical, mental health, and substance use needs. Cushing discusses how expanded in-house services could reduce costly hospital transports and overtime for corrections staff. The episode also explores jail overcrowding, the cost of boarding inmates in other counties, and the growing challenges facing rural emergency services, where staffing shortages are pushing communities toward more regional cooperation. 📻 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.  Pre-recorded, 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.

    27 min
  2. “We Have Lost Around 1,800 License Holders” — Joyce On Maine’s Declining Number Of Lobster Fishermen - Part Three

    5D AGO

    “We Have Lost Around 1,800 License Holders” — Joyce On Maine’s Declining Number Of Lobster Fishermen - Part Three

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Jason Joyce — Part Three “We Have Lost Around 1,800 License Holders” — Joyce On Maine’s Declining Number Of Lobster Fishermen In Part Three of Corenna and David Quirk’s conversation with Jason Joyce, Director of Advocacy at the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association, the discussion turns to the long-term future of Maine’s lobster industry and the challenges facing the next generation of fishermen. Joyce explains why many in the industry believe expanding lobster hatcheries could help strengthen future stock levels, recounting past hatchery experiments in places like Cutler and Stonington and the scientific efforts used to track released lobsters in the wild. The conversation also explores how fishermen enter the industry, from generational fishing families to apprenticeships requiring 2,000 hours on the water, and the growing financial barriers new fishermen face when purchasing boats and gear. Joyce reflects on the shrinking number of lobster license holders in Maine, noting the state has lost roughly 1,800 fishermen in recent years. The episode also touches on the broader seafood economy, the importance of supporting American seafood, and Maine lobster’s global reputation as one of the state’s most iconic products. The conversation concludes with a look at a legislative fight over a proposal that would have removed the requirement for a Maine pilot aboard the international ferry traveling between Nova Scotia and Bar Harbor. Joyce explains why fishermen and maritime pilots argued the safety measure should remain in place and how that effort ultimately succeeded. 📻 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. 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.

    23 min
  3. “You've Gotta Have Proof That There's No Shrimp There” — Joyce On Why Maine Needs Shrimp Data - Part Two

    6D AGO

    “You've Gotta Have Proof That There's No Shrimp There” — Joyce On Why Maine Needs Shrimp Data - Part Two

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Jason Joyce — Part Two “You've Gotta Have Proof That There's No Shrimp There” — Joyce On Why Maine Needs Shrimp Data In Part Two of Corenna and David Quirk’s conversation with Jason Joyce, Director of Advocacy at the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association, the discussion turns to several key issues affecting Maine’s fishing industry — including the unresolved “gray zone” border dispute between the United States and Canada, differences in conservation rules, and ongoing concerns about enforcement and lobster management. Joyce explains how regulatory differences in the gray zone allow Canadian fishermen to harvest larger lobsters that Maine fishermen are required to protect, and why some fishermen believe joint management between the two countries could help address conservation, gear, and enforcement challenges. The conversation also dives into Maine’s long-standing sustainability practices such as v-notching, the role of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and how differing regulations across states and countries can affect the overall health of the lobster resource. Later in the episode, Joyce discusses the current shutdown of Maine’s shrimp fishery and the need for better scientific data to determine stock abundance, emphasizing that management decisions should be based on reliable surveys and evidence. The conversation also explores new efforts by the Maine Department of Marine Resources to improve lobster stock assessments through expanded deep-water data collection and closes with a look at lobster hatcheries as a potential long-term tool to strengthen the fishery for future generations. 📻 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. 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.

    24 min
  4. “It’s Just a Death Sentence.” — Joyce on the Dangers of Ropeless Gear - Lobster Industry Part One

    MAR 7

    “It’s Just a Death Sentence.” — Joyce on the Dangers of Ropeless Gear - Lobster Industry Part One

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Jason Joyce — Part One“It’s Just a Death Sentence.” — Joyce on the Dangers of Ropeless Gear Jason Joyce, Director of Advocacy for the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association and a lifelong Swans Island fisherman, joins Corenna and David Quirk for a detailed discussion about the challenges facing Maine’s commercial fishing industry. With more than 40 years on the water, Joyce explains why safety concerns surrounding proposed ropeless fishing gear are at the top of fishermen’s minds. At one point in the conversation, Joyce describes the potential consequences in stark terms, saying “It’s just a death sentence.” He explains that removing traditional end lines from lobster gear could make it impossible to quickly rescue a fisherman who becomes entangled and goes overboard. Joyce also outlines concerns about the reliability and cost of emerging ropeless technologies, questioning whether federal mandates and subsidies are driving development rather than practical solutions for working fishermen. The conversation also explores broader issues affecting the industry, including offshore wind development in the Gulf of Maine, potential environmental impacts from undersea electrical cables, federal regulations tied to right whale protections, and the economic pressures fishermen are facing today. Joyce also discusses the role of Maine’s congressional delegation, infrastructure challenges affecting island communities, and the realities of fishing life along Maine’s coast. 📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App). ⬇️ 🎧 Streaming after broadcast 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.

    26 min
  5. “They Are Stealing Your Tax Dollars And Mine.” — Wessels On Accountability And Government Spending - Part TWO

    MAR 1

    “They Are Stealing Your Tax Dollars And Mine.” — Wessels On Accountability And Government Spending - Part TWO

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Robert Wessels — Part Two “They Are Stealing Your Tax Dollars And Mine.” — Wessels On Accountability And Government Spending In Part Two of our conversation with Republican gubernatorial candidate Robert Wessels, the discussion centers on government accountability, oversight, and the growing size of Maine’s state budget. Wessels addresses concerns surrounding Gateway Community Services, the role of investigations and law enforcement, and his view that fraud and inefficiency must be confronted regardless of politics. The conversation expands into public safety, crime policy, and the impact of state decisions on law enforcement and community expectations. Education becomes a major focus as Wessels outlines his views on school performance, local control, school choice, and what he describes as the need for significant reform rather than incremental change. Wessels also discusses governing with a divided legislature, his business background, family influences, and his proposal for a Maine version of government efficiency efforts aimed at reducing regulation and spending. The episode closes with immigration policy, campaign priorities, and how listeners can get involved in his grassroots campaign. 📻 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. Pre-recorded, 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.

    30 min
  6. “The Families In Maine Are Hurting” — Wessels Talks Cost Of Living, Energy Prices And State Policy

    MAR 1

    “The Families In Maine Are Hurting” — Wessels Talks Cost Of Living, Energy Prices And State Policy

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Robert Wessels — Part One “The Families In Maine Are Hurting” — Wessels Talks Cost Of Living, Energy Prices And State Policy Republican gubernatorial candidate Robert Wessels joined Corenna and David Quirk in studio for a wide-ranging conversation covering his campaign journey, energy policy, cost-of-living concerns, DHHS leadership, healthcare challenges, and a recent ride-along with The Maine Wire examining Maine’s home healthcare system and related DHHS oversight concerns. Wessels discusses why he entered the race, what he says he’s hearing from Mainers on the campaign trail, and where he believes policy decisions in Augusta are impacting families, businesses, and local governments across the state. 📻 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. This episode of Q-Point Podcast is pre-recorded, 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.

    33 min
  7. “People Will Be Coming Here In Droves.” — Ball On Regional Impact Of The Quirk Sportsplex

    FEB 17

    “People Will Be Coming Here In Droves.” — Ball On Regional Impact Of The Quirk Sportsplex

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | MJ Ball — Coach And Executive Director Of River City Athletics “People Will Be Coming Here In Droves.” In this episode of the Q-Point Podcast, MJ Ball — coach and executive director of River City Athletics — joins Corenna and David Quirk to discuss the vision, development, and community impact of the Quirk Sportsplex in Hampden, Maine. MJ shares the origin story of Fields4Kids, the growth of River City Athletics, and the need for expanded indoor and outdoor athletic space in the region. The conversation walks through the phased development of the Quirk Sportsplex, including outdoor turf fields, the indoor dome facility, and future expansion plans. MJ explains how the project will support youth sports, adult recreation leagues, regional tournaments, and partnerships with schools and community organizations across multiple counties. They also discuss fundraising efforts, naming-rights opportunities, and the long-term economic and community impact the Quirk Sportsplex is expected to bring to the region. At its core, the project reflects River City Athletics’ mission to keep sports accessible, promote healthy lifestyles, and create more opportunities for young athletes and families throughout the area.  For More Information: RiverCityMaine.com 📻 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. 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.

    27 min
  8. “I Would Rather Lose a Deal Than Pick Up a Bad Deal” — LaVerdiere Discusses Financial Discipline and Avoiding Investments That Fail To Meet Core Metrics.

    FEB 8

    “I Would Rather Lose a Deal Than Pick Up a Bad Deal” — LaVerdiere Discusses Financial Discipline and Avoiding Investments That Fail To Meet Core Metrics.

    Send a text 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Mark LaVerdiere — Part Two “I Would Rather Lose a Deal Than Pick Up a Bad Deal” In Part Two of Q-Point Podcast, attorney and business owner Mark LaVerdiere of Apex Business Law continues a practical conversation on what investors need to understand before committing capital to real estate. LaVerdiere discusses why investors must look beyond listing numbers, plan for rising expenses and reassessments, and structure deals with enough margin to absorb regulatory changes and market shifts. He also explains the importance of negotiating financing terms carefully, avoiding costly prepayment penalties, and using LLCs, leases, and property management correctly to reduce risk and protect assets. A central theme of the discussion is financial discipline, emphasizing that walking away from the wrong deal is often preferable to taking on an investment that fails to meet core metrics. 📻 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.

    25 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Q-Point Podcast, hosted by Corenna and David Quirk, is a nonpartisan platform for candid conversations with policymakers, public officials, and changemakers shaping Maine and the nation. The show goes beyond the headlines, diving deep into policy discussions, current events, personal journeys, proposed legislation, and leadership philosophies. From community leaders to government officials and business executives, guests share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the issues that matter most to Maine and beyond. Guests have included U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Congressman Jared Golden, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, former Congressman Bruce Poliquin, U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, former Maine Governor Paul LePage, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey, Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart, Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton, Penobscot County Assistant DA Chelsea Lynds, NEFSA Director of Advocacy, Jason Joyce, Maine State Chamber President/CEO Patrick Woodcock, along with numerous gubernatorial, congressional, and state candidates. Focused on substance over soundbites, Q-Point Podcast explores the real-world impact of legislative decisions, oversight, and public policy through long-form conversations designed to inform, challenge, and engage listeners. 📻 Broadcast statewide weekend mornings on VOM (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM, or stream anywhere on the VOM App). ⬇️ 🎧 Available anytime at QPointPodcast.com or on all major streaming platforms. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________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. This podcast does not endorse candidates nor should any episode be considered an endorsement.

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