PBS North Carolina to Premiere ‘The NC Listening Project’ on January 4
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PBS NORTH CAROLINA TO PREMIERE ‘THE NC LISTENING PROJECT’ ON JANUARY 4
In the new series, distinguished broadcaster David Crabtree invites eight North Carolinians to discuss tough topics openly and respectfully.
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, 12/13/2023 — PBS North Carolina announces the premiere of The NC Listening Project, a new six-part series that brings together eight North Carolinians to discuss challenging subjects with a shared commitment to listen to those they disagree with and the skills to do it effectively. Hosted by PBS North Carolina’s CEO and General Manager David Crabtree, the series aims to demonstrate how individuals with differing points of view can engage in respectful conversation on issues ranging from free speech and religion to immigration and education, often finding common ground when they least expect it.
The NC Listening Project premieres Thursday, January 4, at 8:30 PM, on PBS NC, online and on the free PBS App.
For the series, eight North Carolinians with vastly different experiences, beliefs and worldviews were invited to come together, share their views and hear others’ experiences. Over the course of six episodes, the group examines their opinions on subjects that often create tension and discord. Host David Crabtree gently guides the conversation to preserve an open, engaged environment where everyone can contribute and expand their perspectives.
“Americans are more divided than ever. PBS North Carolina wants to bring people together to talk through complex topics and learn from one another,” says David Crabtree. “Even when we strongly disagree, we can be respectful of others and treat them with empathy. PBS North Carolina is committed to empowering all communities by offering opportunities where we can grow and better understand one another.”
Funding for The NC Listening Project is provided in part by High Point University, Sidney and Rachel Strauss, and Julia Courtney and Scott Oxford.
Broadcast Schedule
New episodes of The NC Listening Project premiere Thursdays beginning January 4. Visit pbsnc.org/schedule for the latest scheduling information.
Episode 1: Where We Are and Where We’re Headed
Premieres January 4, 8:30 PM
Topics: How to talk about politics with friends and family, generational teachings and what should be taught by parents versus teachers.
Episode 2: Rights vs. Privileges
Premieres January 11, 8:30 PM
Topics: Free speech at schools, gun rights, mental health and COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Episode 3: The Politics of Education
Premieres January 18, 8:30 PM
Topics: Banned books, LGTBQ studies in elementary schools, how to teach controversial events in American history and the concept of whitewashing.
Episode 4: Walls and Bridges
Premieres January 25, 8:30 PM
Topics: Immigration, bringing refugees into the United States and what word in the Declaration of Independence means the most.
Episode 5: Lessons in History
Premieres February 1, 8:30 PM
Topics: Civil War monuments, how to discuss the history of slavery in American history and the U.S. Constitution.
Episode 6: Social Codes and Social Media
Premieres February 8, 8:30 PM
Topics: Social media, code switching, social standards in today’s society and religion mixing with politics.
About the Host
David Crabtree has served as the CEO and General Manager of PBS North Carolina since 2022, following a distinguished career as a broadcast journalist at WRAL (1994–2022) in Raleigh. An anchor and reporter with four decades in the television news industry, he has received numerous accolades, including 16 Emmy Awards, an Edward R. Murrow Regional Award and the duPont and Gabriel awards. In 2023 Crabtree was inducted into the North Carolina Media and Journalism Hall of Fame for excellence in journalism and his deep ties to the state. A native of Nashville, Crabtree holds a bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in Theological Studies from Duke University’s School of Divinity.
About PBS North Carolina
As North Carolina’s statewide PBS network serving the country’s third largest public media market, PBS North Carolina educates, informs, entertains and inspires its audience on air, online and in person. Through its unique partnership of public investment and private support, the network includes in-person engagement, digital-first social and online content delivery and four over-the-air channels: PBS NC, the North Carolina Channel, Rootle 24/7 PBS KIDS channel and the Explorer Channel. Its transformational events and content spark curiosity and wonder for all North Carolinians. Additionally, PBS North Carolina serves as the backbone for North Carolina’s state emergency services. To learn more about PBS North Carolina, visit pbsnc.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
-PBS NC-
Media Contact
Allyson Meade, Marketing & Communications
PBS North Carolina
press@pbsnc.org