TC Spotlight

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 changes and economic challenges they’ve successfully navigated across four generations. We dive into the highly specialized work Rocky Mount Radiator performs, from repairing everyday car radiators and AC systems to servicing heavy equipment radiators and even large-scale commercial and hospital heat exchangers. Bryan explains how the company carved out a niche in the heat exchanger and radiator industry through technical expertise, quality workmanship, and long-term customer relationships. Tune in to hear the story behind one of Rocky Mount’s longstanding businesses and learn more about the important role Rocky Mount Radiator continues to play in keeping vehicles, equipment, and major facilities running efficiently across Eastern North Carolina.

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 children. For years, this summer camp served inner city children ages 5–8 whose families may not be able to take time off work during the summer months. Due to the city’s recent financial challenges, support for the program was discontinued—creating a major gap for working families across our community. In response, local business and civic leaders stepped up to organize a private fundraising campaign to ensure the camp continues this summer at Rocky Mount Academy. Our conversation explores why this program matters so deeply, how it supports both children and working parents, and what it says about the power of community collaboration in the Twin Counties. The group is currently working to raise $60,000, and they have already secured approximately half of that goal. Sponsoring one child for the full summer costs $1,000. Individuals and businesses interested in supporting the effort can make check outs to "Community Development Foundation of Rocky Mount" with Kids’ Summer Camp  in the memo line and can be sent to: Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce 100 Coastline Street, Ste #200 Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Tune in to hear how local leaders are rallying together to support families and make sure children in our community have a safe, enriching place to learn and grow this summer.

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 conductor and educator, Dr. Williams returned home and launched the Tarboro Choral Society to enrich the region through music and create opportunities for both professional and community performers.   We dive into the mission of the Tarboro Choral Society, which brings together singers from across Eastern NC to study and perform classical and contemporary works while making music accessible to the community.   The organization hosts an annual multi-day music festival featuring concerts, educational programming, and collaborations with musicians from across the state—all aimed at reviving Tarboro’s rich musical traditions and making the arts available to everyone.   We also highlight the upcoming Choral Society Festival weekend (May 15–17), which includes multiple performances and events throughout Tarboro, including a featured concert on Sunday, May 17.   From classical and gospel to Broadway and jazz, the festival showcases a wide range of musical styles designed to inspire audiences of all backgrounds. Tune in to hear Dr. Williams’ story and the impact of the Tarboro Choral Society—and be sure to learn more about the festival and how to attend at: https://tarborochoralsociety.com/ [https://tarborochoralsociety.com/]

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 join the Warbirds organization. We dive into what it’s like to help launch a new Minor League team from the ground up, from building a brand to engaging fans and telling the story of the team. Chris gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his role with the Warbirds and how media, storytelling, and community engagement all come together in the organization’s growth. We also discuss the Warbirds’ deep involvement in the Wilson community and Chris’s vision for the future of the team. Tune in to hear how a passion for media and sports is helping bring baseball—and community pride—to life in Wilson. Website: https://www.mlb.com/milb/wilson [https://www.mlb.com/milb/wilson]

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 commissioner, and why he believes local leadership plays such a critical role in shaping the future of Eastern North Carolina. We also explore George’s writing through his Substack, Briarpatch, where he offers thoughtful reflections on life in Eastern NC, culture, and the ongoing progress in Edgecombe County. From economic development initiatives to the everyday realities of rural communities, George provides a grounded and insightful perspective on where the region is headed. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, place, and purpose—and be sure to check out his writing here: https://briarpatchnc.substack.com/ [https://briarpatchnc.substack.com/].