Best of Johnston County®

The Leadership Lessons No One Taught You

What if most leadership crises could be prevented before they ever started? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, returning guest Melissa Overton shares the inspiration behind her new book, Focused and Fearless Leadership. Drawing from her experiences as a critical care nurse, entrepreneur, trainer, and speaker, Melissa explains why leadership emergencies rarely happen overnight and how better communication, accountability, and self-awareness can transform the way we lead.

How Animation Is Creating New Possibilities in Johnston County

What if your business could stop people mid-scroll and make them pay attention? In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden sits down with Gabriel Smith, owner of AnimNation, to talk about the world of 3D animation, gaming, and digital storytelling. From working on a DreamWorks project to helping local businesses create memorable brand experiences, Gabriel shares how creativity and technology are changing the way businesses connect with people.

From Fat and Tired to Fitness Leader

What happens when someone reaches a moment where enough is enough? For Amy Locklear, it started with being tired of feeling tired. Years later, that personal decision transformed into something much bigger, a fitness community helping people across Johnston County move more, live healthier lives, and build relationships that extend far beyond workouts. In this episode, Amy shares her journey into fitness, what makes CrossFit different, and why community may matter even more than exercise.

The Family Farm Growing More Than Plants

What starts as a simple nursery can become something much bigger over time. In this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, Jonathan Breeden sits down with Chris Smith of Smith’s Nursery to talk about farming, family, and how a small Johnston County business grew into one of the community’s favorite destinations. From strawberries and hayrides to homemade ice cream and school field trips, this conversation explores why Smith’s Nursery has become a place families return to year after year.

Ask Jonathan Anything: What Does Divorce Really Cost?

Divorce is emotional, but the financial side can be just as overwhelming. In this Ask Jonathan Breeden Anything episode, we break down how attorneys charge, what really drives costs up, and the practical decisions that can save you thousands. If you have ever wondered what divorce actually costs, this conversation brings clarity to a complicated process.