Lawn Enforcement is a Wilmington-based alternative rock band. WKNC caught up with their lead singer, Max, on their latest projects and their creative process.
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Lawn Enforcement – WKNC Interviews
Category: Podcasts
In this episode, I share a glimpse of what’s to come, the mission behind this podcast, and the meaningful conversations you can expect in future episodes.
This is A short interview with Special operator Bob Burton, who was a green beret in the US military. Bob shares with us a few lessons about what it takes to make it to this special operations unit and why he ended up choosing to join the army and serve his country.
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Keep On Rocking in the Free World!
In this episode we will review some big hip hop events as of late, and the future of hip hop in the world’s biggest stage. Following that is an album review of the Rizzle Kicks’ comeback album Competition is For Losers, and we conclude with a deep dive / incoherent rambling into the brief history or rock and hip hop.
Intro and outro music is “Top Ten” by Jeremy Blake
Ever wondered what it’s like to live as a “John Smith”? Well, Abdullah Najjar can tell you—because he did just that! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating (and sometimes hilarious) world of names. Abdullah shares his experience adopting the most common name in the Western world while in Libya, all in an effort to sound less… well, too “exotic”. Spoiler alert: It didn’t go exactly as planned.
From the Roman naming system to the complexities of “Gunther” and “Gustav,” we explore how names shape our identity and perceptions. We also tackle the emotional weight behind some names (yes, even “John Smith” has its baggage). Along the way, we learn how names tie us to history, culture, and sometimes—whether we like it or not—awkward dinner conversations.
So, whether you’re curious about the origin of your name or just need a good laugh at the expense of “John Smith,” tune in! It’s the perfect episode to listen to while traveling, relaxing, or contemplating whether you should change your name to something more… memorable.
This is A conversation with Patrick Weninger, an NC State University alum and a former Case Officer for the CIA. Patrick shares stories from his experience as a case officer, how he became involved with the CIA, and what it is like to engage with people as an undercover officer.
Picture this: You’re sitting around a warm kitchen table in China, where the rich aroma of fresh dumplings fills the air, and your grandmother’s hands, weathered with years of tradition, expertly fold the dough. The room buzzes with soft laughter, and each dumpling she creates is a piece of history, wrapped in dough and steeped in memory.
In this episode, I sit down with Mingduo, a recent NC State graduate originally from China and shaped by his experiences in Hong Kong. Mingduo shares how his cultural background, combined with his love for creative writing, has influenced his storytelling. His short story “Dumplings”, published in NC State’s literary magazine, beautifully captures the intersection of family, identity, and cultural heritage.
We also discuss Mingduo’s journey as an international student, navigating the balance between pursuing a career in literature and the practicality of life ahead, as well as his admiration for role models like Andy Lau. Mingduo’s path toward library science shows how creative passion can evolve into a grounded, meaningful career.
If you’ve ever found yourself questioning whether you should pursue a career in creative writing, or if you’ve been torn between following your passion or taking a more traditional path, this episode is for you. Mingduo’s journey reminds us that passion and practicality can coexist, and the pursuit of creativity is never a waste. Whether you’re traveling, taking a quiet moment, or simply looking for inspiration, I hope this episode encourages you to chase what sets your soul on fire, no matter where that journey takes you.
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Thirsty Curses – WKNC Interviews
Evie Dallmann interviews Wilson from the band Thirsty Curses about their new album “Music is a Scam.” They discuss the challenges of band dynamics, particularly the replacement of lead singers, referencing bands like Van Halen and Greta Van Fleet. Wilson shares insights on songwriting, the influence of live performances, and the impact of technology on society. He also touches on the decline of performative arts and the importance of community. The band’s music blends punk rock with other genres, and they have collaborated with producers and musicians to enhance their sound.
In this episode, I sit down with Gavin Bell, assistant director at NC State’s Multicultural Student Affairs Center and a member of the Lumbee Tribe, to explore Native American identity, cultural resilience, and holistic well-being. Gavin shares the rich history and unique traditions of the Lumbee people, highlighting the diversity among Native American tribes and the importance of cultural preservation.
A central theme of our conversation is the medicine wheel, an Indigenous framework for achieving balance across physical, emotional, spiritual, and communal aspects of life. Gavin explains how this approach can help us cultivate self-love, personal growth, and a deeper connection to ourselves and our communities. We also discuss the power of gentle accountability and the importance of filling our own cup before giving to others.
As we head into spring break, I hope this episode offers you something meaningful to reflect on. Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or bus, or just taking a quiet moment for yourself, I invite you to listen in. Wishing you all a wonderful and restful break!
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newtie – WKNC Interviews
On this episode of Off The Record, Valerie interviews Christian from “newtie,” a Charlotte-based Indie-Freak-Folk band, about their origins and upcoming album.
Original intro music by Valerie