Bright Leaf's Johnston County Legacy

Bright Leaf's Johnston County Legacy

What makes a simple red hot dog one of North Carolina's most recognizable foods? This week, Jonathan Breeden sits down with Justin Raymond, Marketing Director at Carolina Packers, to explore the history behind Bright Leaf Hot Dogs, the products many people never knew the company made, and why an 85-year-old Johnston County business continues to grow while staying true to its local roots.

Dividing Retirement the Right Way

What happens to your 401(k), IRA, or pension during a divorce? In this special Ask Jonathan Breeden Anything episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden answers some of the most common questions about dividing retirement assets, explaining how courts determine what is marital property, why proper planning matters, and the costly mistakes people should avoid.

Helping Seniors Stay Home

What happens when the person caring for everyone else suddenly becomes a caregiver themselves? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden sits down with Irene Brooks, owner of No Place Like Home Senior Services, to discuss the realities of senior care, caregiver burnout, and the often-overlooked resources available to families. From navigating dementia care to finding the right support systems, this conversation offers practical guidance and a hopeful reminder that no family has to face these challenges alone.

Why More People Choose Clayton

Why are so many people moving to Johnston County, and what should homeowners know before buying or selling? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden sits down with real estate agent and investor Ryan Overcash to talk about the local housing market, home flipping, first-time buyers, and what makes Clayton and Johnston County such an attractive place to call home. Ryan shares practical advice for homeowners, investors, and anyone considering a move to one of North Carolina's fastest-growing communities.

How Does JoCo Grows Support Farmers?

When most people think about agriculture, they picture fields, tractors, and harvest season. What they may not realize is that agriculture remains one of the largest economic drivers in Johnston County and North Carolina, touching nearly every aspect of daily life. In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden sits down with Nicole Youngblood, Johnston County's Agricultural Marketing and Communications Extension Agent, to discuss the work happening behind the scenes to support local farmers, tell their stories, and strengthen the connection between agriculture and the growing Johnston County community.