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. “Because We Have The Worst Policies” — LaBrecque On Why Maine’s Electricity Rates Remain High

    3D AGO

    “Because We Have The Worst Policies” — LaBrecque On Why Maine’s Electricity Rates Remain High

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | James LaBrecque  “Because We Have The Worst Policies” — LaBrecque on why Maine’s electricity rates remain high. In this episode, Chief Technical Officer at Flexware Control Technology Jim LaBrecque joins Q-Point Podcast for an in-depth discussion on Maine’s energy policies, rising electricity costs, artificial intelligence, data centers, and the future of nuclear power. LaBrecque argues that decades of legislative decisions and public policy mandates have significantly increased costs for Maine ratepayers and businesses, while also criticizing net energy billing, solar subsidies, and what he describes as inefficient energy programs. The conversation explores how electricity costs impact nearly every aspect of the economy — from groceries and municipal budgets to manufacturing and housing affordability. LaBrecque outlines what he believes would be required to reform Maine’s energy system, including a large omnibus energy bill and legal challenges to existing policies. Additional discussion focuses on lobbying in Augusta, constitutional concerns tied to energy legislation, and the political dynamics surrounding utility policy. The episode also takes a deep dive into artificial intelligence and the growing demand for AI data centers. LaBrecque compares the rise of AI to the early days of electrification, describing data centers as systems that “convert electricity to intelligence.” He discusses the former Jay mill site as a potential location for a future data center, the role biomass could play in powering AI infrastructure, and why he believes Maine is positioned to benefit from emerging technology if energy policy changes. The conversation closes with a discussion on small modular nuclear reactors, long-term energy sustainability, and why LaBrecque believes nuclear power will ultimately become necessary to meet future energy demands in the United States. 📻 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. 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.

    29 min
  2. “You Know What? I’m Leaving Maine. I’m Getting Out Of Here.” — Wessels On Why Many Mainers Feel They Can’t Afford To Stay

    3D AGO

    “You Know What? I’m Leaving Maine. I’m Getting Out Of Here.” — Wessels On Why Many Mainers Feel They Can’t Afford To Stay

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Robert Wessels “You Know What? I’m Leaving Maine. I’m Getting Out Of Here.” — Wessels On Why Many Mainers Feel They Can’t Afford To Stay Maine Republican gubernatorial candidate Robert Wessels joins Q-Point Podcast for a wide-ranging discussion on the final stretch leading into Maine’s June 9 primary. Wessels discusses what he is hearing from voters across all 16 counties, including concerns over rising electricity costs, property taxes, healthcare access in rural Maine, workforce challenges, and young people leaving the state due to affordability and limited job opportunities. He argues that Maine must become more business-friendly by reducing regulations, cutting red tape, and focusing on economic growth in order to reverse current trends. The conversation also focuses heavily on ranked choice voting and Wessels’ public endorsement of fellow Republican gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Bush as his second choice. Wessels explains why Bush’s economic philosophy and approach to government closely align with his own, while also sharing his broader concerns about ranked choice voting and election administration in Maine. Bush later joins the program briefly by phone to discuss the endorsement, his campaign, and the devastating Robbins Lumber mill fire, reflecting on the impact to firefighters, employees, families, and the surrounding community. Also joining the conversation in studio is Davey Wessels, who discusses what it has been like campaigning alongside his father across Maine and why he believes voters should support his campaign. Additional topics include energy policy, hydroelectric power, natural gas, small modular nuclear reactors, Maine DHHS, education reform, campaign fundraising, grassroots organizing, and Republican efforts to flip the Maine House and Senate. 📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine. ⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming after airing 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.

    27 min
  3. “I Want To Get Property Taxes Down” —  Charles On His Tax Priorities And Maine’s Tax Burden

    MAY 18

    “I Want To Get Property Taxes Down” — Charles On His Tax Priorities And Maine’s Tax Burden

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Bobby Charles — Part Two “I Want To Get Property Taxes Down”   — Charles On His Tax Priorities And Maine’s Tax Burden  In Part Two, the conversation continues with Maine Republican gubernatorial candidate Bobby Charles as he discusses taxes, property taxes, energy policy, housing, regulations, nonprofits, and the future direction of Maine’s economy. Charles explains why he opposes the millionaire tax, argues that rising taxes and regulations are driving businesses and workers out of the state, and outlines his proposals to lower property taxes, reduce mandates, and create what he describes as a more pro-business environment.  The discussion also covers school funding, local ordinances, public safety, nonprofits receiving taxpayer dollars, housing development, and government oversight. Charles references energy advisor Jim LaBrecque while detailing proposals related to net energy billing, hydro, natural gas, nuclear innovation, biomass, and data centers. He closes the episode with a message to voters ahead of the June primary and explains how supporters can get involved in the campaign.  📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine. ⬇️ 🎧 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
  4. “Leave The Money In The Hands Of The People Who Make It” — Charles On Taxes, Spending, And Economic Freedom

    MAY 18

    “Leave The Money In The Hands Of The People Who Make It” — Charles On Taxes, Spending, And Economic Freedom

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Bobby Charles — Part One “Leave The Money In The Hands Of The People Who Make It” — Charles On Taxes, Spending, And Economic Freedom Maine Republican gubernatorial candidate Bobby Charles returns to Q-Point Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on debates, campaign criticism, his record, government accountability, and his plan to reduce the state budget. Charles responds to questions about recent scrutiny of his résumé, outlines his work at the State Department, and connects that experience to what he says Maine needs now: fiscal management, program outcomes, law enforcement, counter-narcotics, and a more accountable state government. The conversation also covers his proposal to cut billions from Maine’s budget, lower taxes, reduce regulations, reform contracting, address fraud and abuse, and leave more money in the private sector economy. 📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine. ⬇️ 🎧 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.

    33 min
  5. “We Need To Stop Being Afraid Of Nuclear Power” — Mason on Maine’s Long-Term Energy Strategy

    MAY 10

    “We Need To Stop Being Afraid Of Nuclear Power” — Mason on Maine’s Long-Term Energy Strategy

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Garrett Mason — Part Two “We Need To Stop Being Afraid Of Nuclear Power” — Mason on Maine’s Long-Term Energy Strategy The conversation continues in Part Two with Maine Republican gubernatorial candidate Garrett Mason as Corenna and David Quirk dive deeper into energy, affordability, economic growth, education, and Maine’s future workforce. Mason argues the state has created much of its own affordability crisis through energy policy decisions over the past several decades and outlines what he believes are both immediate and long-term solutions.  A major focus of the discussion is Maine’s energy future, where Mason advocates for expanded natural gas access, pipeline litigation against neighboring states, increased hydropower utilization, and a renewed openness toward nuclear energy. He also sharply criticizes industrial solar development on farmland, rising electricity costs, and what he sees as policies that are driving up both housing and grocery prices for Maine families.  The discussion also explores housing affordability, workforce development, local control in education, vocational and trades training, and why Mason believes Maine must do more to retain younger families and workers. He closes by sharing personal stories about his upbringing, businesses, family, and why he believes experience in both government and the private sector is essential in the next governor of Maine.  📻 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.

    25 min
  6. “There Was One Child Who Was Hoteled For 14 Months” — Mason On Foster Care Conditions In Maine

    MAY 10

    “There Was One Child Who Was Hoteled For 14 Months” — Mason On Foster Care Conditions In Maine

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Garrett Mason — Part One “There Was One Child Who Was Hoteled For 14 Months” — Mason On Foster Care Conditions In Maine In Part One, Maine Republican gubernatorial candidate Garrett Mason joins Q-Point Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on his path into politics, his years in the Maine Senate, and why he believes experience inside Augusta matters heading into 2026. Mason reflects on the political climate during the LePage era compared to today, arguing that Maine government has become increasingly partisan, bureaucratic, and disconnected from taxpayers. He discusses the state budget, income taxes, the newly passed millionaire’s tax, paid family medical leave, and what he calls the growing burden on Maine small businesses and family farms. The conversation also dives deeply into Maine DHHS, child welfare failures, alleged MaineCare fraud, and the challenges facing foster care and autism services. Mason outlines why he believes structural reform is needed inside state government and explains how he would approach oversight, budgeting, and negotiations if elected governor. Additional topics include homelessness, public safety, workforce issues, and concerns over government spending and accountability in Augusta.  📻 Airs weekends on The Voice of Maine (101.3 FM, 103.9 FM & The Voice of Maine App). ⬇️ 🎧 Now streaming after airing 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.

    32 min
  7. “The Money Has Never Been Used As Congress Directed” — Joyce On Federal Seafood Dollars, Congressional Intent, and Where The Money Went

    MAY 3

    “The Money Has Never Been Used As Congress Directed” — Joyce On Federal Seafood Dollars, Congressional Intent, and Where The Money Went

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Jason Joyce — Part Two “The Money Has Never Been Used As Congress Directed” In Part Two, Jason Joyce, Director of Advocacy at NEFSA, continues the conversation in studio, diving deeper into the realities facing Maine’s fishing industry—groundfish collapse, federal overreach, and the increasing barriers for small, independent fishermen. He explains how access to groundfish has been stripped away through consolidation, quotas, and decades of regulatory complexity, leaving coastal communities without viable opportunities despite signs the resource may be returning.  The discussion expands into major policy battles—from a lobster boat tracking lawsuit now pushing toward the Supreme Court, to strong opposition against ropeless gear driven by real-life safety risks. Joyce shares firsthand accounts from fishermen and meetings with federal regulators, highlighting the disconnect between policy decisions and life on the water. The conversation also uncovers a striking issue with federal seafood funding—hundreds of millions in import tariffs intended to support U.S. fisheries that, according to Joyce, have not been used as Congress directed.  Additional topics include rising fuel costs, bait supply, seasonal fishing realities, offshore regulations, and the growing complexity of zones and compliance. Joyce also gives a candid look at oyster farming, detailing the labor, time, and economic challenges behind what many assume is a profitable alternative. 📻 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.

    29 min
  8. “One-Tenth Of One Percent Is Actually Tested By The FDA” — Joyce Sounds Alarm On Imported Seafood Oversight And Federal Gaps

    MAY 3

    “One-Tenth Of One Percent Is Actually Tested By The FDA” — Joyce Sounds Alarm On Imported Seafood Oversight And Federal Gaps

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Jason Joyce — Part One “One-Tenth Of One Percent Is Actually Tested By The FDA.” In Part One, Jason Joyce, Director of Advocacy at the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association (NEFSA), returns to Q-Point—joining Corenna and David Quirk in studio, with additional updates following meetings in Washington, D.C.—to discuss a range of urgent issues impacting Maine’s fishing industry. The conversation opens with the controversy surrounding Maine Department of Labor actions involving Representative Billy Bob Faulkingham, with Joyce outlining concerns from fishermen who feel the situation reflects broader targeting and misapplication of labor laws. He explains how early exposure for young people on lobster boats has long been a safe, community-driven tradition essential to sustaining Maine’s coastal workforce and culture. Joyce also details upcoming zone council meetings with DMR Commissioner Carl Wilson, where integrating youth into the industry and addressing regulatory concerns will be a top priority. He emphasizes the distinction between the Department of Labor’s actions and the Department of Marine Resources’ efforts to resolve the issue collaboratively. The discussion then shifts to federal policy, including Joyce’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., where he observed conversations surrounding the Magnuson-Stevens Act and the USDA’s newly established Office of Seafood. He highlights major concerns about imported seafood—specifically that only a fraction is inspected, with a significant portion failing testing—and calls for stronger oversight and accountability. Additional topics include the American Seafood Competitiveness Act, access to federal funding for fishermen, loan and financing challenges, and the potential for expanded opportunities across the industry—from individual lobstermen to larger processing operations. The episode also includes a somber acknowledgment of the tragic loss of a Maine lobsterman, underscoring the inherent risks of the profession and the tight-knit nature of coastal communities. 📻 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. 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.

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 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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