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🎙️ 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.

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🎙️ 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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Mark LaVerdiere — Part One

“The Death Nail For The Housing Market In Maine”

In Part One of Q-Point Podcast, attorney and business owner Mark LaVerdiere of Apex Business Law joins Corenna and David Quirk to discuss the launch of his business-focused law practice, designed to operate as fractional in-house counsel for a small group of clients. LaVerdiere explains his transition from large firm practice, the benefits of narrowing his client base, and how his legal work intersects with his experience as a real estate investor operating across multiple Maine markets.

The conversation expands into Maine’s housing challenges and the regulatory environment surrounding rental property ownership. LaVerdiere outlines concerns with proposed policies and legislation, including rental registries, rent control concepts, and expanded compliance requirements. He explains that, if enacted, the combined effect of rental registry and rent control proposals could discourage future investment, redirect capital to other states, and reduce housing availability. He contrasts those concerns with incentive-based approaches—such as accessory dwelling unit reform and market-driven solutions—that he argues could encourage development, expand housing stock, and support both property owners and tenants if implemented without additional regulatory constraints.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine).
⬇️ 🎧 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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Patrick Woodcock — Part Two

“We Want This Gubernatorial Race To Be About The Economy” — Woodcock On Maine’s Economic Priorities

In Part Two of Q-Point Podcast, Corenna and David Quirk continue their conversation with Patrick Woodcock, President and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, focusing on tax policy, infrastructure investment, and the role Maine’s business community plays in shaping the state’s economic future.

Woodcock explains LD 191, the Pass-Through Entity Tax, describing how it operates as an IRS-approved workaround to the SALT cap, why 38 other states have adopted it, and how Maine businesses could save hundreds of millions of dollars while increasing state revenue. The discussion moves into bonding priorities, including affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, bridge repair, and the long-term costs of deferred investment.

The conversation also explores economic connectivity — rail, air service, and Maine’s ties to Boston and the national economy — alongside Bangor’s strengths, demographic challenges, downtown vitality, and workforce integration with higher education. Woodcock outlines the Chamber’s legislative engagement, policy committees, and its upcoming economic plan intended to shape the 2026 gubernatorial race, emphasizing why he believes Maine’s economic trajectory remains within the state’s control.

📻 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.
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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Patrick Woodcock — Part One

President and CEO, Maine State Chamber of Commerce

In Part One of Q-Point Podcast, Corenna and David Quirk sit down with Patrick Woodcock, President and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, for an in-depth conversation on the state of Maine’s economy heading into 2026. Woodcock reflects on the pressures facing Maine businesses in 2025, including shifting federal economic policy, tariffs, interest rates, and disrupted Canadian tourism, and explains why Maine’s long-term economic outlook is constrained by demographic challenges and stagnant employment growth.

The discussion dives into key economic indicators Woodcock is watching closely — from interest rates and inflation to state revenues, energy costs, business starts, tourism trends, and housing production. He outlines why housing has become a top Chamber priority, framing it as a core economic issue tied directly to workforce growth, business expansion, and Maine’s ability to retain younger generations. Woodcock details the Chamber’s high-priority housing policy pillars, including speeding up state permitting, reassessing building code requirements, and placing reasonable limits on municipal roadblocks to compliant development.

The episode also explores Maine’s energy costs and policy decisions, with Woodcock calling out long-term consequences of past choices that have left Maine exposed to volatile and expensive imported natural gas. He explains how rising electricity costs are impacting households, businesses, and economic competitiveness, and why energy policy costs should be re-examined.

Finally, Woodcock weighs in on Maine’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program, highlighting concerns for small businesses, seasonal employers, labor shortages, and program solvency. The conversation concludes with a deep dive into tax conformity, why alignment with federal tax law matters for Maine businesses, and why research and development expensing is viewed as “table stakes” for a competitive state economy.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (The Voice of Maine): Saturday at 6:00 AM & Sunday at 6:30 AM.
⬇️ 🎧 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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Angus King III — Part Two

“There’s A Lot Of Grit In The Gears.” — How Regulation And Red Tape Are Making It Harder To Do Business In Maine.

In Part Two of Q-Point Podcast, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Angus King III continues the conversation with a wide-ranging discussion on Maine’s business climate, regulatory environment, and the practical challenges facing employers, entrepreneurs, and communities across the state.

King describes what he calls “grit in the gears” — the accumulated friction created by permitting delays, regulatory complexity, and administrative burdens that make it harder for businesses to locate, expand, and operate in Maine. He points to real-world examples, including multi-year permitting timelines and businesses choosing other states due to regulatory hurdles, while emphasizing that Maine’s quality of life remains among the best in the nation.

The conversation explores how regulatory decisions disproportionately affect small businesses, which make up the vast majority of Maine employers, and how even minor paperwork requirements can compound across thousands of businesses. King argues that improving coordination, streamlining processes, and creating clearer points of entry for businesses could help Maine better compete while still protecting its natural resources and communities.

Beyond the business climate, the episode also touches on leadership philosophy, executive versus legislative experience, economic development, workforce challenges, and how state government can better align policy with real-world practice. King discusses his view of the governor’s role as a chief executive focused on execution, accountability, and bringing people together to get results.

📻 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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Angus King III — Part One

“Life’s Just Become Too Hard For Too Many Folks Here In Maine …” — King On Why He Entered The Race

In Part One of Corenna and David Quirk’s conversation with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Angus King III, he explains why he entered the race, arguing that Maine is at a moment where everyday costs, housing shortages, healthcare strain, and energy affordability are making life harder for too many people across the state. Drawing on his background—from early political work and time in the White House to a career spent building affordable housing and large-scale energy projects—King outlines the perspective he says he brings to governing: practical problem-solving with a focus on results.

A central focus of the conversation is Maine’s housing challenge, which King reframes as a housing opportunity. He describes regulatory complexity, lengthy permitting processes, and disconnected state systems as key barriers that drive up costs and slow construction—often making affordable housing harder to build than market-rate homes. King discusses the need for a cultural shift toward “how do we get to yes,” along with better coordination among state agencies, support for municipalities on zoning and planning, and encouragement of innovation in construction, design, and financing.

The discussion then broadens to healthcare and demographic pressures, including workforce shortages, rural hospital closures, aging-in-place needs, and the growing financial impact of dementia care. King emphasizes prevention, public health, and system-wide thinking as ways to improve outcomes while controlling long-term costs. He also addresses challenges within DHHS, stressing that while intentions are good, government must become more responsive and easier for Mainers to navigate.

On energy, King draws on decades of industry experience to outline a systems-level approach focused on affordability, reliability, and accountability for ratepayers. He discusses permitting reform, grid efficiency, renewable energy, and responses to criticism of wind power, emphasizing collaboration among stakeholders and long-term planning. The episode closes with King’s view on bridging partisan divides by focusing on shared priorities, practical solutions, and a bias toward action that puts Maine people first.

📻 Airs weekends on VOM (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.

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🎙️ Q-Point Podcast | Graham Platner — Part Two

“When I Talk About Taxing the Rich, That’s Who We’re Going After.”

In Part Two of the Q-Point Podcast conversation with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, the discussion centers on wealth inequality, federal taxation, and the growing burden placed on working people and small states like Maine. Platner explains what he means by “taxing the rich,” drawing a sharp distinction between ultra-wealthy individuals and multinational corporations versus small business owners, fishermen, and family-run operations. He argues that current tax structures allow extreme wealth to go untaxed through asset borrowing, shifting financial pressure onto states and municipalities.

Platner outlines why Maine continues to experience high property and income taxes, pointing to what he describes as decades of federal retreat from funding infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He makes the case that only the federal government has the capacity to address concentrated corporate and billionaire wealth—and that doing so could ease tax pressure on states, municipalities, and working families.

The conversation turns to Maine’s fisheries and coastal industries, where Platner discusses the lobster industry as a rare example of an economy built around local ownership rather than corporate consolidation. He reflects on the role regulation has played in shaping that model, the challenges fishermen face today, and why he believes long-term thinking is essential for the future of Maine’s working waterfront.

Platner also weighs in on federal regulation, conservation, and economic development, emphasizing the importance of aligning policy with on-the-ground realities. He discusses broader ideas around rebuilding domestic industries, investing in innovation, and thinking more strategically about how Maine’s natural resources can support future growth.

The episode also touches on the Senate committees Platner would seek if elected, why those assignments matter to Maine, and how they align with his broader economic and policy priorities.

Closing the conversation, Platner emphasizes coalition-building across party lines, unscripted town halls, and his belief that rebuilding trust in politics requires long-term thinking, imagination, and genuine engagement with everyday Mainers.

📻 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.
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.