In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of People, Politics and Pork, hosts Newell Clark and Greg Webb welcome Mayor Zeb Smathers of Canton, North Carolina — a hometown leader who has seen his share of challenges and still manages to keep faith and hope alive.

From devastating floods to the sudden closure of a historic paper mill, Mayor Smathers paints a vivid picture of how a small town has battled heartbreak after heartbreak — and yet found the will to rise each time. With stories of neighbors coming together, kids cheering in a stadium rebuilt after tragedy, and the power of community prayers, this conversation is about far more than politics; it’s about resilience.

Mayor Smathers shares lessons learned through repeated disasters, the struggles of dealing with federal disaster relief, and the importance of bipartisan support to truly rebuild. He also issues a passionate call to take care of your “own backyard” — encouraging listeners to strengthen their homes, neighborhoods, and communities as the first line of defense against division and hardship.

Greg and Newell round out the conversation with their own reflections on local leadership, public service, and the essential role of civic-minded communities.

If you believe in grit, grace, and the power of neighbors coming together, this is an episode you can’t miss.

🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartMedia, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

📩 Share your thoughts or guest ideas with Greg and Newell at peoplepoliticsandpork@gmail.com.
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