The Must Read Alaska Show

Alaska's Education Funding Battle & Budget Realities with Rep. Will Stapp

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host Ben Carpenter welcomes Alaska State Representative Will Stapp for an in-depth discussion on the pressing financial and legislative issues facing the state. At the heart of the conversation is House Bill 69, a controversial proposal to significantly increase education funding—without a clear plan to pay for it. Rep. Stapp explains the political maneuvering surrounding the bill, the challenges of balancing Alaska’s budget, and the broader implications for taxpayers.
Beyond education, they explore the state’s looming fiscal cliff, the growing tension between spending and taxation, and the need for programmatic cuts to ensure responsible governance. Rep. Stapp also shares details on his efforts to repeal outdated government programs, his proposed constitutional amendment to cap spending based on private sector GDP, and even the grassroots push to designate an official state dinosaur.
With candid insights and behind-the-scenes legislative updates, this episode is a must-listen for Alaskans wanting to understand where their tax dollars are going and what the future holds for the state's economy. Tune in for a deep dive into Alaska’s financial challenges, political dynamics, and a few surprises along the way!

Cinderella Story: Nikiski High School Girls Volleyball’s Road to the 2024 State Championship

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Coach Stacy Segura of the Nikiski High School Volleyball Team to share their incredible journey to becoming the 3-A 2024 Alaska State Champions. A true Cinderella story, the team overcame early setbacks in the state tournament, clawing their way back from the loser bracket to face the 2-time defending state champions, Kenai High School. In a historic showdown, they defeated Kenai for the first time since 2019, sweeping them in four games to claim the title.
Coach Segura reflects on her passion for volleyball, her path to becoming the varsity head coach, and the life lessons that fueled her team’s resilience and triumph. Packed with inspiration and advice for young athletes, this is a story of perseverance, grit, and teamwork you won’t want to miss.
 

From the Cockpit to the Page: Rodger Carlyle's Thrilling Adventures in Writing

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Rodger Carlyle, a pilot, adventurer, political strategist, ghostwriter, and novelist. Known for weaving historical truths and current events into compelling thrillers and historical fiction, Rodger shares his journey into writing, the inspiration behind his books, and the secrets to crafting stories that readers can't put down.
 
Whether he's uncovering hidden history or tackling unfinished global conflicts, Rodger's heroes are ordinary people thrust into extraordinary situations—just like in his own life. Tune in for his advice to aspiring authors and thrilling tales of facing down Russian mobsters, charging grizzlies, and life-threatening adventures that fuel his passion for storytelling.

Cathy Tilton: Speaker of the Alaska State House, Championing Alaska’s Future

In this compelling episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Speaker Cathy Tilton to discuss her journey, motivations, and aspirations as she seeks re-election for State Representative in District 26. A lifelong Alaskan with deep roots in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley, Speaker Tilton shares stories from her upbringing, her commitment to the community, and her belief in a pro-Alaska agenda.
Tune in as they delve into critical topics such as her vision for economic growth, constitutional spending limits, the importance of election security, and her stance on the PFD. The conversation also explores Speaker Tilton’s reflections on the impact of the COVID-19 response and her views on the national political landscape, debating whether Alaska’s future looks brighter under Trump or Harris.
Don’t miss this episode packed with insights from a seasoned leader dedicated to putting Alaskans first, and find out what drives her unwavering dedication to ensuring a prosperous future for all Alaskans.

Scotty Gomez: From Stanley Cups to Community Champion in Alaska

Host John Quick sits down with Alaska’s own hockey legend, Scotty Gomez, on the Must Read Alaska Show. A two-time Stanley Cup champion and NHL Calder Trophy winner for Rookie of the Year, Scott shares his journey from growing up in Anchorage to reaching the pinnacle of professional hockey with teams like the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers.
 
Now giving back through the Scotty Gomez Foundation, he’s helping the next generation of Alaskans keep hockey alive. Tune in to hear about his career highlights, his work in the community, and his current role as a coach for one of the teams where he first made his mark. It’s an inspiring episode you won’t want to miss!

Governor Dunleavy on Education Reform, Resource Development, and Alaska’s Future

 
On this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Governor Mike Dunleavy for a deep dive into some of the most pressing issues shaping Alaska's future. The Governor discusses his plans for education reform, including a bonus program aimed at getting money directly into the hands of teachers to help retain top talent across the state. With Alaska leading the nation in charter schools, he also shares his vision for expanding educational opportunities and improving outcomes for students.
Governor Dunleavy offers a candid look at Alaska’s position as a gold standard for oil and gas development, highlighting the state's commitment to responsible resource management and economic growth. He expresses concern over the impact of 66 executive orders from the Biden administration, which he believes have hindered Alaska's potential. As the upcoming election approaches, he shares his optimism for working with a new administration that might better support Alaska’s resource development and economic goals, paving the way for a brighter future for the state.
Tune in for an insightful conversation on education, energy, and Alaska's path forward.

Nick Begich: A Common-Sense Leader for Alaska's Future

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, John Quick talks with Nick Begich about his campaign for Congress, challenging incumbent Congresswoman Mary Peltola. Born and raised in Alaska, Nick is a small business owner, family man, and commonsense leader who stands for less government, reduced regulation, and pro-oil development. With a background in entrepreneurship and business, Nick brings a wealth of experience and a passion for responsible growth to the table. Tune in as he shares his vision for Alaska's future and the challenges he aims to tackle in Washington.

Rep. Sarah Vance: Championing Homer’s Future and Alaska's Progress

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, Rep. Sarah Vance joins us to discuss her re-election campaign for the Alaska State House. Representing Homer, Sarah highlights her ongoing efforts to extend the Senior Benefits Program, improve infrastructure like Homer’s Kachemak Drive and the Homer Harbor, and tackle vital community projects.
She shares how her deep roots in Homer and her leadership roles—Chair of the House Judiciary Committee and Vice-Chair of the House Transportation Committee—equip her to serve her constituents. Tune in to hear how Sarah is tackling human and sex trafficking and what separates her from her far-left opponent.