PODCAST · news
TC Spotlight
by Twin County Media Group
Our mission is to highlight the positive news and events taking place in Nash and Edgecombe counties. We shine the spotlight on those people doing interesting things in our community.
Episodes
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Dr. Cassandra Conover (D) & Mark Edwards (R) — Civility Across the Aisle
What happens when Nash County's Democratic chair and its former Republican chair sit in the same studio for 39 minutes? Not a shouting match — a shared game plan.Dr. Cassandra Conover and Mark Edwards return to the Twin County Spotlight, this time together, as part of Urban Rural Action's...
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Elton Daniels - City Manager, Rocky Mount
Rocky Mount is writing a comeback story — and this week we sit down with the manager at the helm.City Manager Elton Daniels joins us for a conversation about the financial stabilization of a city that was on the brink. When Daniels took the helm in April 2025, he inherited a municipality burning...
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Justin Sykes - Tar River Arts + Culture Magazine
In this episode, we sit down with Justin Sykes, lead writer and editor of the Tar River Arts + Culture Magazine, ahead of our fall 2026 release. Justin takes us behind the scenes of his pieces on Smith's Red + White, Big Bones Meat Market, Prime Smokehouse, the Rocky Mount Farmers Market, and…
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Jan Warren - Meals on Wheels, Rocky Mount
In this episode, we sit down with Jan Warren, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Rocky Mount, to shine a light on the incredible work they do in our community — from delivering 500 meals each week to homebound seniors, to coordinating more than 125 dedicated volunteers who make it all...
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Jamie Holcomb - NC Children's Museum
Big news for downtown Rocky Mount! On this episode, we sit down with Jamie Holcomb, CEO of the North Carolina Children's Museum, to talk about the announcement that the museum will make the Imperial Centre its flagship headquarters. Under a proposed lease between the city and the museum, the NC...
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Gabby Pacelli - Pacelli's Bakery
What happens when an engineer trades formulas for flour? On this episode of TC Spotlight, we sit down with Gabby Pacelli — founder and head baker of Pacelli's Bakery, Rocky Mount's newest artisan bakery — to talk about her leap from a career in engineering (she holds a Master of Engineering) into...
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Dr. Jason Miller - North Carolina State University
The First Dream Comes Home On Friday, August 28th at 7:30 PM, the Rocky Mount Mills Power House becomes hallowed ground for a historic homecoming—one that will echo across six decades and reconnect our city with its place in civil rights history. North Carolina State University's Dr. Jason Miller...
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David Ess - Pate, Horton, & Ess
David Ess, partner at Pate, Horton & Ess, isn't your typical Twin Counties professional. In this episode of TC Spotlight, David shares the story of his 3,800-mile cross-country bike ride — completed in just 54 days — half of which he completed alone.We dig into what it takes to ride solo across...
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Pam Gould - STEP
Pam Gould is a lifelong resident of the Twin Counties with over 30 years in education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Education from East Carolina University. Her career spans Edgecombe County Public Schools, Nash-Rocky Mount…
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Tonia Grimsley - American Heart Association
In this episode of TC Spotlight, we sit down with Tonia Grimsley, MPH — Development Director for the American Heart Association in Eastern NC, adjunct professor of public health at NC Wesleyan University, and head cheerleading coach at NCWU. Tonia is a native of the Twin Counties — she was…
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Jeff Ellis - Ribeyes & Flo's Kitchen
In this episode of TC Spotlight, we sit down with Jeff Ellis, the entrepreneur behind Ribeyes and Flo's — two of the Twin Counties' most recognizable restaurant brands with locations in both Wilson and Rocky Mount.We dig into the business side of food and beverage: what it takes to run successful...
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Dr. Alexis Brown Exum - Rocky Mount Children's Dentistry
Dr. Alexis Brown Exum is a Rocky Mount native who came full circle — graduating from Northern Nash High School, earning her DDS at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, and completing both her advanced education in general dentistry and pediatric dentistry residencies at ECU before…
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Matt Bristow-Smith - Edgecombe Early College
Matt Bristow-Smith has spent over two decades in Edgecombe County schools — fifteen years teaching English at Tarboro High, and the last ten-plus as principal of Edgecombe Early College High School, a 200-student school in Tarboro that quietly posts some of the best outcomes in the state: an...
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KJ Askew - Director, Marketing & Strategic Engagement, Nash Community College
In this episode of TC Spotlight, we sit down with Dr. Kenyon "KJ" Askew Jr., D.B.A., Director of Marketing & Strategic Engagement at Nash Community College.We start with KJ's story — growing up in Colerain, NC (Bertie County), the path from Bertie County Schools to a leadership role at Nash, and...
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Eric Evans - Edgecombe County Manager
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Evans, County Manager of Edgecombe County, North Carolina, for a conversation about what it takes to lead a rural county through rapid economic transitions. We dig into Edgecombe's current budget priorities and the fiscal realities of governing a community...
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Justin Sykes - Tar River Arts + Culture Magazine, Spring 2026
This week we sat down with Justin Sykes, the multi-talented creative force and content producer behind Twin County Media’s Tar River Arts + Culture (TRA+C) Magazine. In this episode, we dive into the creative evolution of the publication and look at how TRA+C has become the definitive spotlight…
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Derrick Vick - Freedom Industries
In this episode, we sit down with Derrick Vick, President of Freedom Industries in Nash County, to trace the growth trajectory of this local mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) construction powerhouse. Derrick shares his personal journey of coming back home to Eastern North Carolina and...
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Kevin Wilson - Oak Grove Retreat
In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Wilson, owner of The Oak Grove Retreat in Tarboro, North Carolina. Kevin shares the unique story of how a small historic church was transformed into a peaceful retreat center dedicated to rest, reflection, and renewal. What began as a vision to preserve a...
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Ron Green, Melvin Mitchell, Gus Tulloss - Project DREAM, Boys & Girls Club
In this episode, we sit down with Ron Green, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, along with Melvin Mitchell and Gus Tulloss, who are helping lead the capital campaign for one of the most ambitious youth development projects in our area: Project DREAM. Project DREAM is a...
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Bryan Braswell - Rocky Mount Radiator
In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Braswell, fourth-generation operator of Rocky Mount Radiator, to discuss the incredible story of a family business that has been serving the region since 1927. Bryan shares how his family started the company nearly 100 years ago and the many industry…
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Rocky Mount Kids’ Camp - David Farris, Beth Covolo, Bunn Boddie
In this episode, we sit down with David Farris, President of the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce, Beth Covolo, Head of School at Rocky Mount Academy, and Bunn Boddie of Boddie-Noell Enterprises to discuss a community-led effort to keep a critical summer camp program alive for local Rocky Mount...
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Dr. Nettie Williams - Tarboro Choral Society
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nettie Williams, founder and artistic director of the Tarboro Choral Society, to talk about her journey in music and her vision for bringing high-level choral performance back to Eastern North Carolina. A Tarboro native with a distinguished career as a...
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Chris Edwards - Manager of Broadcast & Media Relations for the Wilson Warbirds
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Edwards, Manager of Broadcast & Media Relations for the Wilson Warbirds, to talk about his journey into the world of sports media and broadcasting. Chris shares his early aspirations in media, how he got his start, and the path that ultimately led him to…
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George Thorne - Commissioner, Edgecombe County
In this episode, we sit down with George Thorne, Commissioner for Edgecombe County, to talk about his decision to return home after college and invest his time and energy back into the community that raised him. George shares what drew him to public service, what he’s learned as a county...
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Joseph Bobbitt - Financial Advisor, Boston Marathon Qualifier
In this episode, we sit down with Joseph Bobbitt, a local financial advisor and Momeyer native, to talk about his incredible journey from a novice runner to qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Joseph shares how he first got into running, the discipline it took to improve, and the mindset required...
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Cutchin Anderson - Tarboro Councilman, Anderson Farms
In this episode, we sit down with Cutchin Anderson, Town Councilman in Tarboro and manager at Anderson Farms, to talk about leadership, agriculture, and the future of Edgecombe County. Cutchin shares his background growing up in Tarboro, his work in the family farming business, and what…
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Kristen Brabble - Tackle the Tar
In this episode, we sit down with Kristen Brabble, COO of First Carolina Bank and the founder of the Tackle the Tar race in Rocky Mount. Kristen shares the story behind launching the event nearly a decade ago and how a simple idea—bringing the community together for a fun but challenging race—has...
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Nasir Dukes - Legacy Lofts & Downtown Development
In this episode, we sit down with Nasir Dukes, founder of Dukes Properties & Construction, to discuss his firm’s growing development footprint in both Raleigh and Rocky Mount. Founded in 2004, Dukes Properties & Construction is a real estate investment and development firm focused on building...
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Susan Phelps - Director, Nash County Economic Development
In this episode, we sit down with Susan Phelps, the new Director of Economic Development for Nash County, to talk about her eight-year journey with the county and her transition into this leadership role. Susan shares what energizes her about economic development, the relationships she’s built...
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The Seed - Ripe for Revival's New Venue @ Rocky Mount Mills
In this episode, we sit down with Julie Baggett, General Manager of Rocky Mount Mills, and Anne Parker Chambliss, Director of Marketing and Communications for Ripe for Revival, to talk about an exciting new announcement: The Seed. This new hosting and event space, complete with a full commercial...
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Nish Patel - President, Greystone Hospitality
In this episode, we sit down with Nish Patel, President of Greystone Hospitality, a Rocky Mount–based hospitality group making strategic investments across the region. Nish shares his journey into the family business, how he stepped into leadership, and the vision that’s driven Greystone’s growth...
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Dr. John Kim - Rocky Mount Periodontics
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. John Kim, owner of Rocky Mount Periodontics, to talk about his journey to becoming a nationally recognized periodontist. Dr. Kim shares his educational path—from studying at Harvard to completing his fellowship at UNC—and how those experiences shaped his...
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Kevin Walsh - Owner, Flying-Iron Harley Davidson
In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Walsh, owner of Flying-Iron Harley-Davidson in Rocky Mount, NC, to talk about his unique entrepreneurial journey and life in the motorcycle world. Kevin shares his backstory, including how he built and sold a flight instructor school before making the leap...
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Whit Barnes - President, Wildwood
In this episode, we sit down with Whit Barnes, President of Wildwood, the renowned lamp and lighting company with deep roots in Rocky Mount. Whit shares his background and the family history behind Bulluck’s Furniture, the original business that eventually spun out Wildwood Lamps. While now...
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Matt Dameron - Standup Comedian from Nash County
In this episode, we sit down with Matt Dameron, a stand-up comedian based in North Carolina whose comedy is deeply rooted in his upbringing right here in Rocky Mount. Matt grew up with a classic rural Southern background—fishing, riding four-wheelers, working land—and that “country life meets...
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John Lea & Gardner Noble - Simmons & Harris Commercial Real Estate
In this episode, we sit down with John Lea and Gardner Noble of Simmons & Harris, a full-service commercial real estate firm based in Rocky Mount. As key brokers serving the industrial, land, office, retail, flex, and multifamily markets, John and Gardner join Benton Moss, President & CEO, for a...
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Khatari Lane - Founder, NextUp Theatre Production Co
Join us this week for a fun and inspiring episode with Khatari Lane, Founder and Managing Arts Director of NextUp Theatre, a youth community theatre dedicated to giving local young talent a place to shine. Khatari shares the story behind launching NextUp Theatre and his passion for creating...
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Kyle Pritchard - Mayor of Spring Hope
In this episode, we talk with Spring Hope Mayor Kyle Pritchard, who’s just been reelected this year, about his journey to public service and what it means to lead a small town with vision and heart. Kyle reflects on how he took on the mayor’s role and the values that drive him to serve the...
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Will West - Carolina Grits Company
In this episode, we sit down with Will West, owner of Carolina Grits Company, to explore his journey from the East Coast to the West Coast and ultimately back home to the Twin Counties. Will shares the story of stepping into his father’s legacy and taking over Carolina Grits Co., a beloved local...
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Dr. Will Lamb - Head of School, Kainos School
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Will Lamb, founder of The Kainos School, a new hybrid education model that blends the flexibility of homeschooling with the structure and support of in-person instruction. Dr. Lamb shares the inspiration behind Kainos and how it draws from successful models...
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Jason Gupton - Stunt Man Extraordinaire
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Gupton, a Nash County native and veteran Hollywood stunt coordinator whose credits include the film Roofman starring Channing Tatum. Jason shares how his journey—from action sports and parkour to stunt work—led him to coordinate high-risk sequences in major...
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Kaila Billups, Vicky Mayer, and Madeline Mills - Harrison Family YMCA
In this episode, we sit down with Kaila Billups, Vicky Mayer, and Madeline Mills, three dynamic team members from the Rocky Mount Family YMCA, to explore the incredible impact the Y has on families and youth in our community. Kaila, who serves as Associate Executive Director, leads the…
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Bernnadette Yarborough - Director of Dayschool, Good Shepherd
In this episode, we sit down with Bernnadette Yarborough, Director of the Day School at Good Shepherd Church in Rocky Mount, to talk about her lifelong dedication to early childhood education and her passion for nurturing young learners. Bernnadette shares her professional journey, the personal...
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Devin Keaton, Michael Dallas, David Keaton - Spring Hope Studios & FFGI
In this episode, we sit down with Devin Keaton, founder of Spring Hope Studios, David Keaton, founder of Film Finance Group International (FFGI), and Michael Dallas, the software developer bringing David's innovative ideas to life. Together, they share a fascinating look into how a family’s…
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Dr. Wendy Cook - Nash Community College’s Strategic Enrollment Management Plan
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Wendy Cook, Vice President of Student Access & Success at Nash Community College, to dive into the college’s newly launched Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) plan. Dr. Cook shares her journey in higher education and how it led her to NCC, where she now...
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April Baker - Founder, A Touch of the Father’s Love
In this episode, we sit down with April Baker, Founder and CEO of A Touch of the Father’s Love based in Momeyer, NC. April shares her inspiring journey—how she started the nonprofit from humble beginnings, grew it through hard work and faith, and eventually secured a permanent home in the old…
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Susan Phelps, Bob Pike, Sandy Roberson - Economic Development in the Twin Counties
In this episode, we bring together three leaders shaping the future of the Twin Counties: Susan Phelps (Economic Development Director, Nash County), Bob Pike (CEO, Carolinas Gateway Partnership), and Sandy Roberson (Mayor of Rocky Mount). We explore the region’s growth prospects across housing,...
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Elton Daniels - City Manager of Rocky Mount
In this episode, we sit down with Elton Daniels, the new City Manager of Rocky Mount, NC. Elton shares insights from his first days on the job — the challenges he’s faced, the early wins that have energized his team, and the vision they’re building for the city’s future. We explore Elton’s career...
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Bruce Tyler - Weldon Mills Distillery
Bruce Tyler’s story is one of service, grit, and vision. Before co-founding Weldon Mills Distillery, Bruce served as a JAG officer in the Middle East, advising military leaders on complex legal matters in high-stakes environments. That experience forged the discipline and clarity of mission that...
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Israel James - Youth Leader, Scholar, Entrepreneur, Rocky Mount Native
In this episode, we sit down with Israel James, a proud Rocky Mount native whose story embodies youth leadership, academic excellence, and entrepreneurial innovation. Israel shares his journey from growing up in Rocky Mount to being elected Student Body President at the North Carolina School of...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Our mission is to highlight the positive news and events taking place in Nash and Edgecombe counties. We shine the spotlight on those people doing interesting things in our community.
HOSTED BY
Twin County Media Group
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does TC Spotlight have?
TC Spotlight currently has 179 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is TC Spotlight about?
Our mission is to highlight the positive news and events taking place in Nash and Edgecombe counties. We shine the spotlight on those people doing interesting things in our community.
How often does TC Spotlight release new episodes?
TC Spotlight publishes regularly with 179 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to TC Spotlight?
You can listen to TC Spotlight on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts TC Spotlight?
TC Spotlight is created and hosted by Twin County Media Group.
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