Best of Johnston County®

100 episodes. When we started this podcast, I wasn’t sure we’d even make it to 20. Now people stop me in town and say, “Aren’t you the podcast guy?” not “my lawyer.” Along the way, we’ve lost entire interviews, begged friends to come on, and met nonprofits, small business owners, and community leaders who completely reshaped how I see Johnston County.But here’s what I keep asking myself: which conversations truly changed me, and which ones might change you?

Everyone’s asking the same thing: why is Johnston County’s new regional park taking so long? We’ve heard promises of pickleball courts, fishing ponds, and walking trails—yet the site still looks untouched. Is it money? Politics? Or something as simple as… not enough clay in the ground? In this conversation with Parks Director Adrian O’Neal, I dig into the delays, the big plans, and whether we’ll actually see this park finished before my own grandchildren are grown.

What makes someone run toward danger when everyone else runs away? 🚒Cleveland Fire Chief Chris Ellington didn’t dream of being a firefighter—it started as peer pressure from friends. Yet, within seven years, he was chief at just 28 years old. In our conversation, he opens up about learning firefighting “on the way to a call,” leading a department that grew from 230 calls a year to nearly 3,000, and what he believes truly sets firefighters apart.Would you ever step into a career where the training never ends and the stakes are life or death?

What if the only way through grief… was straight through it?This week, we sat down with April Barbour-Capps, the heart behind Johnston County’s SECU Hospice House and Camp Courage—a free program helping children navigate the unimaginable. How do you explain loss to a 6-year-old? How do you help families carry grief without being crushed by it?In this conversation we uncover why Camp Courage exists, how hospice care is evolving, and what it really means to face loss together as a community.

What really happens to the house when a marriage ends? Divorce doesn’t take your name off the mortgage. Courts almost never order a sale. And sometimes, years later, an ex can walk away with hundreds of thousands in equity they didn’t pay toward. In this episode, I ask: Who really owns the home after divorce—the one on the deed, the one on the mortgage, or the one still living there?

What do cemeteries, pirates, and workforce housing have in common? They’re all part of the journey that brought Maureen McGuinness to lead the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. From managing six cemeteries in New York to helping Johnston County tackle childcare deserts, housing shortages, and job growth, her story is anything but ordinary. Why did she choose North Carolina? What’s really keeping businesses up at night? And how is JoCo Works changing the way our kids see their future? This conversation made me rethink what a Chamber of Commerce can do.

What would make someone leave steady work to start a roofing company in one of the most competitive markets around? In this episode, I sit down with Houston Colson, founder of Roof Stepper Roofing, to uncover how a 12-year-old transplant to Johnston County built a business on consistency, trust, and doing what others in his industry often skip. From storm chasers to insurance battles—would you know the right first step if your roof was damaged?

You lived together. Shared a home. Built a life. But you never got married.Now it’s over. What are you legally entitled to? Can you keep the house? The car? The dog? What if your name isn’t on anything?This episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast answers the questions no one asks—until it’s too late.Because when the breakup hits, love isn’t the law… paperwork is.

What if the key to changing a community starts with just one person—and a pair of donated tennis shoes? Coach Fred went from feeding four families on Thanksgiving to mentoring hundreds of kids across Johnston County. But what really happens inside those first two weeks of his program—when most kids say they don’t even like him? And why does he believe the biggest problem with today’s youth... is boredom? This isn’t just a story about mentoring. It’s about rebuilding lives before they break. Would you step in before it's too late?

What do car repairs and concealed carry classes have in common? More than you’d think—especially when Kemp Treger is behind both. From rebuilding engines to teaching firearm safety, Kemp’s built two businesses around one principle: do it right, or don’t do it at all. But what makes women better shooters than men? Why are some luxury cars a mechanic’s worst nightmare? And how do you really make a car last 300,000 miles? This episode goes under the hood in more ways than one.

What if the best career of your life was waiting just down the road — and all it took to start was a $300 class? Novo Nordisk is quietly building one of the largest pharmaceutical campuses in the world… right here in Johnston County. I sat down with Stacy Beard to uncover how this global giant is changing lives, creating jobs, and proving you don’t have to leave home to do work that matters. Would you recognize the opportunity if it were in your own backyard?

What if getting older didn’t have to mean losing your independence? What if care could come to you—on your terms, in your home, with someone you trust? I sat down with Natasha Armstrong, a registered nurse redefining home care and wellness in Johnston County. From IV drips that boost your energy to respite care that gives caregivers a break… she’s doing it differently. The question is: when your family needs help, will you know where to turn?

What happens when your child lives in one state… and your custody order is in another?What if your ex moves across the country without telling you?And how far does a parent really have to go to stay present in their child’s life?In this episode, I unpack the messy, emotional, and legally complex world of multi-state custody—from emergency returns to cross-country visitations.Because when parenting crosses state lines, everything changes.

What do you do when thousands of bats are living in the ceiling of a medical building — and the law says you can’t touch them?Robert Weaver has the answer.From removing birds in big-box stores to tracking raccoons through crawlspaces, Robert built a thriving wildlife control company out of situations most of us never want to think about.In this episode, I sat down with the man behind Freedom Wildlife Solutions to ask:What’s really living inside our homes? How do we stop it? And what happens when we don’t?You won’t look at your attic the same way again.

What happens when a TV reporter walks away from the camera and ends up inside one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies?Stacy Beard thought she’d be covering wars. Instead, her journalism career led her from the anchor desk to Town Hall—and eventually to Novo Nordisk, right here in Johnston County. In this conversation, we unpack the real reason she left WRAL, the burnout no one talks about, and what she’s learned about storytelling, leadership, and local impact along the way.This isn’t just a career pivot—it’s a masterclass in reinvention.

What if your dream home had a hidden flaw—and no one told you until it was too late?Randy Berry thought he was getting a clean bill of health on his new house... until he realized the inspection was too perfect. That moment launched a mission to fix what’s broken in the home inspection industry.Why do some builders welcome inspectors—and others dread them?What should you look for before you ever set foot inside a model home?And could a messy construction site predict how well your home is built?Let’s talk about what’s really behind the walls.

What if one $300 class could change your entire career?What if your teenager could graduate high school and walk straight into a $25/hour job—no debt, no degree required?In this episode, I sat down with Joy Callahan to uncover the hidden engine behind Johnston County’s workforce boom. From biotech labs to backroads apprenticeship programs, she’s helping thousands of people stay local and level up.The question is: Are we doing enough to let them know it’s possible?

What happens when your child wants to join the school band, but your ex refuses to drive them to practice? What if you agree on everything… except which school they should attend? In this episode, I share the real stories behind school-year custody battles—and the one question that changes everything: Do you have a court order, or don’t you? If you’re co-parenting through the school year, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed because your child’s stability might depend on what you do next.

What if the love you thought you had... was actually control?She left a 22-year relationship with nothing but a futon, an air mattress, and her kids, then built a life beyond anything she imagined.But how do you know if you’re living with a narcissist? And what does it really take to break free?In this episode, I sit down with Denise Kavaliauskas to uncover the silent signs of toxic relationships—and the mindset shift that can set you free.

What happens when law enforcement officers swap their badges for handlebars? Meet the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club—a group of current and retired officers riding for a cause. From raising money for fallen officers’ families to promoting motorcycle safety, they’re giving back in ways most people don’t see. But how do bikers with badges bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community? Tune in to find out how this club is changing lives, one ride at a time.

What if you could feel better, have more energy, and regain the confidence you thought was lost to age? Dr. Bob Young, an ER physician turned men's health advocate, is revolutionizing the way men approach their well-being at Gameday Men's Health. Struggling with fatigue, low energy, or low testosterone? You're not alone, and you don't have to accept it. How much of a difference could balanced hormones make in your life? Let’s dive into how Dr. Young is helping men unlock their full potential, without the typical doctor’s office experience. Ready to feel your best?

What does it take to build a business around your passion for dogs? How do you go from washing your own five dogs in a bathtub to creating a thriving pet care empire in Johnston County? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, I sit down with Katie Ast, the owner of Just Dog People, to uncover the inspiring story behind her journey. From self-serve dog washes to harness fittings, discover how Katie turned a love for animals into a community hub—and learn what it really takes to turn your passion into a business. Ready to hear the full story? 🐾

What happens to custody when school lets out — and real life steps in? From track-outs to cross-country travel, custody during school breaks isn’t as simple as splitting time in half. What if your kids are on different school calendars? What happens when parents can't agree? In this episode, family law attorney Jonathan Breeden unpacks the real stories, the surprising complications, and what parents often miss. The rules aren't what you think — and the stakes are higher than most realize.

Ever wondered what fuels Johnston County’s rapid rise from farmland to a bustling community of 250,000? In this episode, I sit down with County Manager Rick Hester, who swapped a dream of Major League Baseball for a career in public service, to uncover the secret behind our zoning rules, water networks, school funding, and more. How did naming every road and building water districts set us up for this boom? Tune in to find out.

Discover the transformative power of community and second chances in Johnston County. In this episode, I sit down with Mark Hall of Hope Center Ministries to explore how a recovery home—where early mornings, disciplined routines, and real-life partnerships converge—can become a haven for those rebuilding their lives after addiction. How does a blend of faith and tangible hope spark true change? What does it take to turn chaos into a new beginning? Join us to uncover the inspiring answers.

Ever wondered what it takes to pivot from chasing a baseball dream to steering a $350 million county budget? In my conversation with Rick Hester, Johnston County’s trailblazing manager, we uncovered the raw moments of minor league life, the high stakes of public service, and the art of balancing passion with fiscal responsibility. How do you transform failure into a legacy? What does it mean to truly serve your community? Join us and explore the unexpected lessons behind every pitch and policy.

Join me as I chat with Princeton native Mike Rose, our newest County Commissioner. How does a lifelong resident balance growth with keeping home’s heart intact? From transforming local infrastructure during torrential rains to navigating a 70% jump in property evaluations, Mike shares his candid, hands-on approach to serving Johnston County. Curious about his journey from teacher and town board leader to county policymaker? Dive in and explore the pulse of our community.

What if a meal could spark a revolution? In my latest journey through Johnston County’s Old North State Food Hall, I uncovered a place where every dish tells a story and every bite fuels a community’s heartbeat. From gourmet hot dogs to bold Cuban flavors, could this be the future of dining? Join me as I explore the magic behind the meals—and ask: How far can a shared plate take us?

Have you ever wondered how a small town reinvents itself? In my latest conversation with Selma’s Mayor Byron McAllister, we explore his journey from New York to the heart of Johnston County—and how Selma transformed from a quiet antique haven into a vibrant, innovative hub. What does it take to turn financial challenges into opportunities and revitalize a community from within? Join me as we uncover the bold moves shaping Selma’s future.

Who gets Christmas morning? What happens if your ex refuses to return the kids? Can you take them out of state without permission?Custody battles don’t take a holiday, and for separated parents, the most wonderful time of the year can feel like a legal minefield. In this special episode, I break down how courts divide holiday time, what happens if custody orders are violated, and why communication is the key to keeping the season stress-free. If you’re co-parenting this holiday season, this is the conversation you can’t afford to miss.

Ever wondered what fuels a local legend? At Salon 42, Sandi Adams transforms hair into art right in the heart of Johnston County. How does she blend raw talent with scientific know-how to build a thriving salon rooted in community spirit? Join me as I uncover her journey—from a hands-on apprentice to an inspiring salon owner—exploring the bold choices and secret techniques that make every cut a story worth telling. What’s your hair’s next chapter?

What if baseball wasn’t just a game, but a miracle in motion?Imagine a place where every child, no matter their ability, steps up to bat with a crowd cheering them on. A place where wheelchairs race to first base, where volunteers become teammates, and where parents get to sit back and just watch their kids play—maybe for the first time ever.This is the Miracle League of Johnston County, and it’s changing lives. But how did it start? What does it take to make baseball truly inclusive? And how can you be part of it?Because in Johnston County, baseball isn’t just a sport—it’s a community.

Ever wonder how a community can change a life in an instant? Join me, Jonathan Breeden, as I dive into a conversation with Randa Gay about the groundbreaking Isaiah 117 House—a 3,000-square-foot sanctuary replacing cold DSS offices with warmth, care, and hope. What does it truly mean to say “yes” when the system only offers “no”? Ready to explore how compassion transforms a crisis into a new beginning?

What makes a great attorney-client relationship? Is it trust? Honesty? Communication? In this episode, I break down the secrets to working effectively with your lawyer—what strengthens the relationship, what sabotages it, and how you can get the best outcome possible. Ever wondered why some legal battles feel endless while others resolve smoothly? It all comes down to strategy and connection. Let’s dive into what truly matters when navigating the legal system. Are you ready to take control of your case?

What makes a great attorney-client relationship? Is it trust? Honesty? Communication? In this episode, I break down the secrets to working effectively with your lawyer—what strengthens the relationship, what sabotages it, and how you can get the best outcome possible. Ever wondered why some legal battles feel endless while others resolve smoothly? It all comes down to strategy and connection. Let’s dive into what truly matters when navigating the legal system. Are you ready to take control of your case?

What does it take to stand out in a crowded marketplace, build trust, and turn your passion into a personal brand? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, we uncover the secrets of marketing pro-Carly Rye. From mastering grassroots strategies and leveraging digital tools to creating authentic connections in your community, this conversation is packed with actionable advice. Plus, discover how the Harbor Shelter is making a difference in Johnston County. Ready to transform the way you approach branding? Let’s dive in.

What makes a business truly sellable? Is it the numbers, the team, or something deeper? On this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, business broker Neal Isaacs reveals the secrets to building a business buyers can’t resist. From reducing owner dependency to creating systems that thrive without you, Neal shares practical strategies for long-term success. Whether you’re dreaming of an exit or just starting, this conversation will leave you asking: Is your business ready for its next chapter?

What does it take to truly transform your business? In this episode, I sat down with Todd Bailey, a former pastor turned business strategist who’s mastered the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). From scaling companies to preparing them for sale, Todd shares the secrets behind doubling growth, solving people's problems, and achieving what he calls the “EOS Life.” Could these simple tools be the key to your business breakthrough? Tune in to discover how vision, alignment, and strategy can change everything.

Join us on The Best of Johnston County Podcast as we chat with Chad Massengill from United Community Bank. Discover Chad's journey from growing up in Dunn to a successful banking career. Learn about United Community Bank's offerings, common banking mistakes, and the importance of community banking. Chad also shares insights on tackling fraud and maintaining good credit. Plus, hear about his involvement with Garner Mid-Day Rotary and their support for Backpack Buddies. Tune in for an engaging discussion!

In this "Ask Jonathan Breeden Anything" episode, we dive deep into the topic of legal custody - what it covers, the different types, and what happens when parents disagree. If you're facing custody issues or thinking about separation, this episode is a must-listen. I share real case examples and practical advice to help you understand your rights and make informed decisions. Don't miss this informative episode - tune in now!

In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, dive into the world of flooring with Tim Ailes from Southern Flooring Solutions. Discover how his family business, based in the 4042 area, stands out by offering both flooring and cabinetry. Learn about Tim's journey, his commitment to quality, and why he loves calling Johnston County home. Whether you're planning a home renovation or just curious about local businesses, this episode is packed with insights and tips. Tune in for an engaging conversation!

In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, we chat with Karriem Kanston, owner of Kanston Development and Little Caesars franchises. Karriem shares insights on business and personal coaching, turning around underperforming stores, and the importance of customer service. We also discuss his involvement with One Blood Movement of Unity in Clayton. Tune in for valuable advice on growing your business and personal development. Don't miss it!

Join me as I chat with Randy Capps, owner of JNOW Media, about his journey in the media world. We dive into the creation of Johnston County Magazine, the JNOW Awards, and the JoCo Sports Network's coverage of high school football. Discover how Randy's passion for positive community stories has shaped his media empire. Tune in for an insightful look at the heart of Johnston County's media landscape and learn how you can get involved in celebrating local heroes.

Join me as I chat with Carlie Rye, Public Relations Manager at Universal Chevrolet, about the evolving car industry and the impact of informed consumers. Discover how Universal Chevrolet stands out in the market, and learn about Carlie's extensive community involvement, including the Cleveland Christmas Parade and Clayton's holiday festivities. Tune in for insights on cars, community, and the holiday spirit in Johnston County. Don't miss this engaging episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast!

In this special edition of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, we dive into how child custody impacts school assignments and interactions. Explore how custody orders affect school decisions, who decides school changes, and how parents should handle school expenses and communications. We also discuss the importance of emergency contacts and school pickups. Tune in for insights on navigating these challenges to prioritize your child's education and well-being. Don't miss this informative episode!

Explore the incredible journey of Sarah Coates, founder of One80 Counseling, as she shares her story of growing from a one-person operation to one of North Carolina's largest mental health providers. Discover how One80 addresses the rising demand for mental health services, especially among teens, and learn about their innovative programs, including a new substance abuse initiative. Tune in to understand the challenges and triumphs of expanding mental health care in Johnston County.

In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, dive into a conversation with Dusta Rhymes, the creative mind behind the Down Home Dirt podcast and owner of The Other Mother Commercial Cleaning. Discover her journey from Sarasota, Florida, to Johnston County, and learn about her entrepreneurial spirit. We explore her podcast goals, unique cleaning services, and the supportive community that helped her thrive. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience and success in Johnston County.

Join me on The Best of Johnston County Podcast as I dive into the heart of our community, highlighting the incredible work of local organizations like Partnership for Children and My Kid's Club. Discover how these groups, along with our schools and bands, make a difference in the lives of our children. Listen in to learn more about the people and programs that make Johnston County a thriving and supportive place to live. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of dedication and community spirit.

In this episode, dive into the story behind RBL Catering and The Redneck BBQ Lab with CEO Mercedes Harris. Discover how they’ve grown from a backyard BBQ competition to serving up to 10,000 people, expanding into multiple locations including PNC Arena. Learn about their unique catering offerings beyond BBQ and what it takes to maintain the highest quality. Tune in to hear about their journey, community impact, and future plans.

Dive into a revealing conversation with Ronald Johnson, Johnston County School Board member, as he shares his journey and vision for local education. We explore his motivations, the challenges faced during his tenure, and his plans for the future if re-elected. From handling controversies to advocating for teachers and students, Ronald provides an inside look at the dynamics of the school board.Tune in to understand the complexities and hear his candid insights on making Johnston County schools better.