TC Spotlight

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Johnson, CEO of GXP Storage, to discuss his journey in growing the company and his decision to establish GXP Storage in Nash County. Jeff shares how the company's strategic location near the Biopharma Crescent and the Research Triangle made Eastern North Carolina an ideal choice for expansion.

We also dive into Jeff's belief that the Research Triangle is the greatest biotech cluster in the world and how GXP Storage is positioned to support the growing needs of the biotech and life sciences sectors. He provides a glimpse into the future of GXP Storage, including plans for growth and the exciting developments on the horizon. 

For those interested in joining the team at GXP Storage, be sure to check out their careers page for current opportunities. Tune in to learn more about GXP Storage’s vision and why Eastern North Carolina is poised to continue its rise as a global biotech hub.

In this episode, we sit down with Tony and Trevor Foote, a talented married couple who are leaders in the Twin Counties’ real estate and construction industries. Tony Foote, a high-end residential builder, and Trevor Foote, who runs Foote Real Estate Group and is a community partner of Twin County Media, combine their expertise to provide a comprehensive service for clients navigating both the custom homebuilding process and the residential brokerage market.

Tony also shares his meaningful work with veterans through his partnership with Helping a Hero, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing specially adapted homes for severely wounded veterans. He recently completed a brand-new home for a local veteran in the Belmont community, showcasing his commitment to giving back to those who have served. We also discuss the current state of the home building and home sales markets in the Twin Counties, exploring trends, challenges, and opportunities in both sectors.Tune in to hear from this dynamic duo as they share their insights into the real estate and construction industries and how they’re shaping the future of homebuilding in the Twin Counties. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christina R. Peyton, MD, and Charity Stewart, Clinical Director of the UNC Health Nash Women’s Center. Together, they share insights into the center's recent recognition by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top women's centers in North Carolina. We also discuss the remarkable milestone of over 8,000 babies being born at the Women's Center since 2016, underscoring the trust and impact this facility has had on the community.

We discuss the comprehensive services offered at the center, including maternity care, gynecology, and lactation support, and explore the patient experience at this state-of-the-art facility. Dr. Peyton and Stewart also highlight the center's commitment to excellence and its role in providing high-quality care to the community. Tune in to learn more about the exceptional services available at the UNC Health Nash Women’s Center and the dedicated professionals who make it a trusted resource for women's health.

In this episode, we sit down with Trey Braswell, President and CEO of Braswell Family Farms, to discuss the current state of the egg market and the impact of avian flu on egg supply. Trey provides insights into the challenges and opportunities within the industry and shares how Braswell Family Farms continues to support the community through various events.

We highlight upcoming local events sponsored by Braswell Family Farms, including:

• Egg-Citing Saturday in Nashville on April 12, featuring an egg hunt, Easter Bunny photos, crafts, and a sensory-friendly edition. Event Details
• Food Truck Rodeo in Raleigh on April 13, offering a variety of food and dessert trucks. Event Details
• Nashville Blooming Festival on May 9-10, a two-day event with live music, food, a parade, carnival, crafts, and more. Festival Information
• Tackle the Tar Obstacle Course Race on May 17, a 5K race featuring over 20 obstacles, with proceeds supporting local college scholarships. Event Details

Additionally, we discuss Braswell Family Farms' company culture and current hiring needs, emphasizing benefits like free eggs, employee-focused events, and a caring team environment. For career opportunities, visit their careers page.

Join us for an engaging conversation about community involvement, industry insights, and the vibrant events that make our region thrive.

In this episode, we sit down with Kristina Simpson, owner of Victory Learning Academy Inc. and the visionary behind the restoration of the OR Pope School in Rocky Mount. Kristina shares her passion for early childhood education and the journey that led her to open her own academy, offering a nurturing environment for young learners.

We dive into the challenges facing the early childhood education industry today, from funding to the need for more resources, and Kristina’s perspective on how to overcome these obstacles. She also discusses her ambitious plans for the OR Pope School, a former elementary school she is working to restore into a community hub for preschool education. Kristina’s vision for OR Pope is one of growth and renewal, and she shares how the community can get involved in making this dream a reality. To support the project, check out the GoFundMe campaign here. Tune in to hear more about Kristina’s inspiring work in education and her commitment to shaping the future of Rocky Mount’s children!

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Will Paul, founder of Tar River Co and a seasoned fishing guide with expertise in Eastern North Carolina’s waterways. Will shares his deep passion for fishing and his journey as an angler, traveling annually to Alaska’s Tikchik Narrows Lodge as a professional fishing guide. He spends his springs and falls guiding guests down the Tar and Roanoke Rivers, offering unique fishing experiences targeting shad and other native species.

We dive into why Eastern North Carolina is considered one of the most productive fisheries on the East Coast, with the Tar River standing out as a hidden gem. Will also shares his insider knowledge on the region’s fishing scene, its ecological importance, and what makes these rivers so special for anglers. Tune in to learn more about the rich fishing culture in Eastern NC and the incredible opportunities awaiting those who seek adventure on the water!

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Bastian, Executive Vice President of Business Development at The Nautical Group, a firm specializing in executive search assignments for both private businesses and public organizations. Steve shares his journey, from his roots in Rocky Mount to his successful career in business development. He reflects on his experiences and how they shaped his path to working with high-level executives across various industries.

We also discuss Steve’s insights into the economic development trends in Eastern North Carolina, particularly in the context of the region's labor markets. He provides a unique perspective on the growing opportunities and challenges in our area and how businesses can adapt to these changes. Tune in to hear Steve’s expertise on the future of East North Carolina's economy and what’s driving growth in the region.

In this episode, we sit down with Tia Foula, Assistant County Manager for Nash County, to discuss her inspiring journey in municipal government and her commitment to servant leadership. Tia shares her experiences working within local government and how she’s contributed to the growth and development of Nash County through her work in strategic planning.

A key focus of our conversation is Tia’s role in managing the opioid settlement funds and ensuring they are used effectively to benefit the community. We explore the strategies being developed to invest these funds in ways that will make a positive and lasting impact on the health and well-being of residents. Tune in to hear Tia’s thoughtful approach to governance, community-building, and improving lives in Nash County.

To learn more about the opioid statistics statewide, check out the database mentioned by Tia here.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Dwight, a partner at Poyner Spruill, a prominent corporate law firm with deep roots in North Carolina, including a strong presence in Rocky Mount. Chris shares insights into the rich history of Poyner Spruill, their diverse practice areas, and his personal journey into the field of law. We delve into how he discovered his passion for legal practice and what led him to establish his career in the Twin Counties.

Chris also discusses the rewarding experience of balancing a thriving legal career with family life in the Twin Counties. As a devoted father and professional, he exemplifies how this region offers ample opportunities for both professional fulfillment and a high quality of life. Join us as we explore Chris's insights into corporate law, his commitment to community, and his perspective on thriving professionally while enjoying the benefits of living in the Twin Counties.

In this episode, we sit down with Harris Walker, a Rocky Mount native whose impressive career journey spans from the U.S. Department of Energy to the forefront of innovation in the private sector. Now working for Focused Energy, a groundbreaking cold fusion startup, Harris shares insights into the evolving energy landscape and the exciting developments happening in fusion technology.

We also discuss his return to Rocky Mount after the pandemic and how he proves that you can live in the Twin Counties while maintaining a dynamic, nationwide career. Tune in to learn about his experiences shaping the future of energy while staying rooted in his hometown.