Shows
Flippin' the SwitchS8 E2: Dreaming Big in a Small Town with Schumata BrownWhat does it take to turn a “passage to the beach” into a small-town destination? We sit down with Maysville’s town manager, Schumata Brown, to unpack a lifetime of roots, the courage to lead at home, and the practical playbook for rural revival: professional management, grant-first funding, and a community that sees itself with fresh eyes.Schumata shares how growing up where everyone knew your name forged integrity and accountability that guide every decision today. From rebranding the gateway sign to acquiring distressed buildings before the grant money was certain, we walk through the bold bets that l...
2026-02-2319 minFlippin' the SwitchS7 E1: New Year, Smarter Power with Member ServicesYour winter bill doesn’t have to be a mystery. We sit down with Member Services representative Staci Berkner to unpack the hidden habits that raise costs, the simple tweaks that actually work, and the free tools that help you manage energy like a pro. From the 68-degree thermostat baseline to spotting when auxiliary heat kicks in, we walk through how to interpret your daily usage, connect it to real-life choices, and act before a small spike becomes an expensive surprise.We also highlight key dates and opportunities around the cooperative, including the virtual annual meeting streaming Fr...
2026-01-2712 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E11: Small Hands, Big Impact - Writing Joy Into A Veteran’s HolidayA ten-year-old with a big heart is changing the holidays for veterans. Tucker, the force behind In Tucker’s Mailbox, shows how handwritten cards can bring comfort to veterans living in VA homes—and how a simple idea can rally an entire community. We follow his journey from practicing his signature to organizing and hand-delivering thousands of Christmas cards to VA homes in Eastern North Carolina.Along the way, Tucker’s letters spark unexpected replies, powerful connections, and living lessons about service, kindness, and showing up for others. He also shares advice for kids who want to make a...
2025-12-2211 min
The Storytelling LabHow a Local Utility Company Became a Storytelling Powerhouse with Krystal Phillips“It’s not just about keeping the lights on—it’s about building a relationship with the people at the end of the line.” — Krystal Phillips, JO-EMCStorytelling isn’t just for trendy brands or startups.In this episode, Rain sits down with Krystal Phillips, Communications and Community Relations Manager at Jones-Onslow EMC, to explore how a rural electric co-op built a storytelling culture that would rival any big tech brand.Krystal reveals the behind-the-scenes thinking that led a utility company to invest in heartfelt video stories, internal leadership programs, and community...
2025-12-0850 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E10: Powering Community In The Season Of GivingOn this episode of Flippin' the Switch, we highlight how United Way of Onslow County shows what happens when generosity works like infrastructure—steady, practical, and built to last. Raquel Painter joins us to share how small, consistent acts can have a real impact: students are fed through the CHEW program, families gain access to fresh produce, and neighbors move from crisis to stable housing with wraparound support.Raquel walks us through their model—funding vetted nonprofits, coordinating a volunteer network that runs smoothly, and expanding food access through a community garden that’s now growing into plans...
2025-11-2522 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E9: A Week in Washington - The Youth Tour Experience with Giana CadwalladerWhat happens when you take four high school students from small-town North Carolina and drop them into the heart of Washington, DC for a week? Magic, transformation, and lifelong connections.The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has been sending students to our nation's capital for over 60 years. In this episode, we get a firsthand account from Giana Cadwallader, a Jacksonville High School senior who experienced this journey of discovery over the summer. From trading state pins with students across America to standing in awe before towering monuments that remind us "freedom isn't free," Giana's story captures the essence...
2025-09-1219 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E8: Leading the Line with New CEO Ricky MareadyLeadership born from experience stands at the heart of our latest Flippin' the Switch episode featuring Ricky Maready, Jones-Onslow EMC's new CEO who brings an extraordinary 37 years of cooperative service to his role. Ricky's journey from load management technician to chief executive offers a masterclass in understanding electric cooperative operations from the ground up. This front-row seat to Jones-Onslow's evolution has shaped his leadership philosophy, which he summarizes beautifully as focusing on "the little old lady at the end of the line" – ensuring that every member receives equal attention regardless of size or influence.The episode takes a...
2025-08-2623 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E7: Ask a Dispatcher - Behind the Scenes with Amanda WilsonWhat happens when you flip a switch and nothing happens? Behind every power outage is a team of dedicated professionals working around the clock to restore your service. At the center of this operation are dispatchers - the unsung heroes who coordinate everything from routine maintenance to emergency response.Amanda Wilson, Operations Center Supervisor at Jones-Onslow EMC, pulls back the curtain on the dispatcher's world in this eye-opening conversation. Discover the intricate dance of technology, teamwork, and problem-solving that unfolds when your power goes out. Most outages are detected automatically through advanced metering systems before you even c...
2025-07-1516 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E6: Summer Baseball with the Jacksonville OspreysGrab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks! Summer in Jacksonville means baseball season is in full swing, and we're diving deep into the heart of our hometown team. Ever wondered how a summer collegiate baseball team comes to life? Dylan Hughes, General Manager of the Jacksonville Ospreys, takes us behind the scenes of creating a baseball tradition from scratch. What began as a simple desire to avoid long drives to neighboring cities for baseball games has blossomed into a community cornerstone that's quickly building its own legacy. The Ospreys represent more than just baseball—they're a testament to com...
2025-06-0915 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E5: Powering Lives Safely During Electrical Safety MonthElectricity powers our lives, but respecting its potential dangers is crucial for keeping our families safe. In this eye-opening episode of Flippin' the Switch, we're joined by Timmy Hall, a job training and safety specialist from Jones-Onslow EMC, who shares critical electrical safety information every household should know.Whether you're a homeowner, parent, or just someone who uses electricity (so, everyone!), this episode delivers practical, potentially life-saving information presented in an accessible way. Take a moment to listen—the safety tips you learn could protect you and your loved ones from electrical hazards all year long....
2025-05-2024 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E4: Honoring Military Children Through Adventure with Quincy MartinIn honor of Month of the Military Child, we’re spotlighting the power of storytelling to reflect the lives and resilience of military kids. In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Quincy Martin—Jones-Onslow employee, US Marine veteran, and proud uncle—whose children’s book "Breezy’s World Adventure" draws deeply from his global travels and military service.The story follows Breezy, a curious 10-year-old girl, as she explores Japan, London, Australia, and Dubai—mirroring the journeys of many military children who grow up moving from place to place. Inspired by his own adventures and his spirited nie...
2025-04-1124 minFlippin' the SwitchJOEMC Virtual Annual Meeting 2025Each year, Jones-Onslow EMC holds its Annual Meeting of the Members on the last Friday in March. This meeting provides members with a robust review of the happenings at the cooperative in 2024, including achievements, future plans, and key initiatives for 2025.This year, the Annual Meeting is virtual, making it more accessible than ever! Members can join from anywhere to stay informed and engaged with their cooperative. Plus, all registered participants will be entered for a chance to win one of 300 $50 Visa Gift Cards, and one lucky member will win $5,000 in cash!Visit www.joemc...
2025-03-2824 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E3: Springtime Energy Reset with TJ SmithReady for warmer weather? Your home's energy needs are about to shift, and we've got you covered with essential tips to make the transition smooth and cost-effective.The winter-to-spring changeover in eastern North Carolina brings unique energy challenges. That's why we invited our energy services representative TJ Smith to share expert advice on preparing your home for the warmer months while keeping your energy bills in check. TJ walks us through the critical importance of spring HVAC maintenance after those brutal 18-degree days we experienced this winter. Just like your car needs regular service, your heating and...
2025-03-1811 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E2: Empowering Community and Honoring Heritage with LaShea Cavers (Part 2)Join us as we continue our conversation surrounding Black History and minority-owned businesses with LaShea Cavers! Unlock the stories behind Jacksonville's thriving minority businesses and learn how these vibrant enterprises are shaping the community’s cultural and economic landscape. First, LeShae dives into the growing trail of historical sites celebrating African-American achievements. This episode peels back the layers of Jacksonville’s diverse culture, highlighting how minority-owned businesses—from bustling food trucks to dynamic retail spaces—are not only fueling economic growth but also building bridges for cultural exchange and creating pathways to generational wealth and philanthropy. Plus, stick around as Natal...
2025-02-2117 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E2: Empowering Community and Honoring Heritage with LaShea Cavers (Part 1)Discover the incredible journey of LaShea Cavers, a trailblazer in business diversity and a beacon of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs. After two decades of serving in the Marine Corps, LaShea transitioned from a career in food service to higher education in psychology, ultimately carving her niche in business psychology. Her dedication to fostering minority entrepreneurship and her deep connection to Jacksonville's vibrant community are nothing short of inspiring. In part one of this special two-part episode, LaShea shares how her faith and commitment to education have fueled her passion for empowering others and giving back to the community she...
2025-02-0417 minFlippin' the SwitchS6 E1: Innovative Billing - A Guide to Energy Management in the New YearUnlock the secrets to managing your energy bills with ease and flexibility as we kick off the new year. Our special guest, Jodi Florian, a seasoned member service representative from Jones-Onslow, guides us through innovative billing options like FlexPay and Budget Billing. Discover how FlexPay can alleviate hefty security deposits and provide daily energy usage updates, perfect for those with fluctuating incomes. Jodi also sheds light on Budget Billing, which offers predictability by allowing you to pay a consistent amount each month based on your previous usage, giving you peace of mind and financial stability. Tune in to this...
2025-01-0115 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E12: The Season of Giving with Power Bucks and Onslow Community OutreachUnlock the spirit of the season and learn how community kindness can light up lives through our latest inspiring conversation. Jennifer Rawls from Jones-Onslow’s Member Services Department shares moving stories about the Power Bucks program. Discover how you can contribute to easing the burden for those facing tough times by giving the gift of energy, whether to someone you know or anonymously. Jennifer’s hands-on experiences reveal the deep gratitude of those who helped and highlight the transformative power of collective support.Hear from Krystal Phillips and Dr. Don Herring of Onslow Community Outreach as they open...
2024-12-0231 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E11: Restoring Power and Hope from the Front Lines of Hurricane HeleneWhat does it take to restore power in the aftermath of a hurricane? Join us on a heartfelt journey with seasoned linemen Lawrence Rochelle and Eric Brown as they share their gripping experiences from the front lines of disaster recovery in Western North Carolina. With over 50 years of combined expertise, these linemen reveal the meticulous preparation and intense teamwork required to tackle the chaos left by Hurricane Helene. Discover firsthand the physical and emotional hurdles they and their families face, and how they embody the cooperative spirit of working together for the greater good. Tune in for a deep...
2024-11-1823 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E10: Celebrating Co-Op Month and the Impact of Cooperatives on CommunitiesJoin us for a heartwarming celebration of Co-op Month as we share the inspiring journey of Mary Ann Gurganus, who has devoted 54 years to Jones-Onslow EMC. Her story is a testament to the remarkable technological advancements and unwavering community spirit that define the cooperative experience. We also take a nostalgic look back at Jones-Onslow EMC’s 85-year history, spotlighting its growth from humble origins to a cornerstone of community strength.But the conversation doesn't stop there. Sarah Coats, Executive Director of the Cooperative Council of North Carolina, joins us to illuminate the unique principles that drive cooperatives an...
2024-10-1429 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E9: EV Unplugged - The Real Deal on Electric VehiclesEver wondered if electric vehicles are really worth the hype? Join us as we explore the world of electric vehicle ownership in honor of Electric Vehicle Month. Guests Quincy Martin and Jody Horn bring you firsthand experiences on the pros and cons of driving an EV. Quincy, a Tesla Model S PD100 owner, shares his enthusiasm for the car’s sleek design, powerful performance, and impressive range. Meanwhile, Jody recounts his initial challenges with range anxiety during a work trip This episode promises to equip you with a well-rounded perspective on making the switch to electric. This episode is pa...
2024-09-0428 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E8: Empowering the Youth in Our CommunityCurious about how cooperative principles can shape the future of our youth? In this episode of Flippin' the Switch, we take you on an enlightening journey with Carson Lee, a rising senior from Jacksonville High School, as well as Caleb Snyder and Corinne Renny, both students from Jones Senior High School. Carson shares heartfelt stories from his time at the North Carolina Cooperative Camp, Caleb reflects on the transformative Washington DC Youth Tour, and Corinne shares the valuable lessons learned during her time as a governer's page. Jones-Onslow EMC is honored to be part of their stories, and we...
2024-08-0824 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E7: Celebrating National Agriculture Month with JS Lowland Cattle and Pogies Adventure CenterOn this month's episode of Flippin' the Switch, we're celebrating National Agriculture Month and Grilling Month with two very special guests! Ever wondered how a family farm can thrive through generations and even a pandemic? Join us as we get to know local farmers Eric and Ashley Smith, owners of JS Lowland Cattle. You'll get an insider's look at the Smith Farm, a legacy that began in 1928 and has evolved with the times. Hear heartwarming stories about the multi-generational involvement, including contributions from Eric's 90-year-old grandfather. Learn about their meticulous cattle management practices, from rotational grazing to raising diverse...
2024-07-0531 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E6: Behind the Lines - Keeping Our Power Supply Safe with James CollinsWhat does it take to keep our power lines clear and our homes well-lit? Join us on this captivating episode of "Flippin' the Switch" as we celebrate Right-of-Way Professionals Week with special guest, James Collins. As a dedicated right-of-way worker at Jones-Onslow for nearly eight years, James opens up about his journey into the world of vegetation management. From early morning equipment checks to maneuvering around power lines and homeowners' properties, James shares the intricacies of his role as a crew foreman. He provides an insider's perspective on the daily responsibilities that ensure a safe and reliable power supply...
2024-06-1718 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E5: Master Your Hurricane Readiness with Erik HedenHow prepared are you for what is shaping up to be an exceptionally active 2024 hurricane season? For this crucial episode, we are joined by Erik Heden from the National Weather Service in the Morehead City area. Erik shares his expert advice on early preparation, assessing personal vulnerabilities, and the essential items for a comprehensive hurricane kit. He also walks us through the sobering statistics and common pitfalls that can make the difference between safety and disaster. This episode is packed with actionable tips that could be lifesaving for you and your loved ones.We explore reliable sources...
2024-05-3018 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E4: Lineworker Appreciation - Honoring the Unsung Guardians of the GridEver wonder who braves the heights and hazards to keep your lights on? Step into the world of Blake McLamb, an apprentice lineman at Jones-Onslow EMC, who peels back the curtain on the high-voltage life of lineworkers. Our latest episode of Flippin' the Switch celebrates these unsung heroes, as Blake recounts his transformative journey from managing tree limbs to maneuvering power lines. He gives us a glimpse into the meticulous morning rituals, the tight-knit brotherhood that prioritizes everyone's safety, and the resolute focus it takes to update aging infrastructures. His tale is a powerful testament to the unseen guardians...
2024-04-2323 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E3: Harvesting Innovation in Local Agriculture with Nicole HallCelebrate National Agriculture Day with us as we chat with the impressive Nicole Hall, a fierce advocate for North Carolina farming and the current National Miss US Agriculture 2023! Known to many as North Carolina Nicole, she's not just a beauty queen—she's a barnyard strategist dedicated to changing the way we think about, and purchase, our food. From her own tale as the daughter of tobacco sharecroppers to her contemporary role in the poultry industry, Nicole serves up a feast of knowledge that's not just about farming, but about making conscious decisions that benefit our local economies.Th...
2024-03-1811 minFlippin' the SwitchS5 E2: Cultivating Minds and Communities with Dr. Sonia MartinWhen the relentless pursuit of education meets the heart of community empowerment, magic happens. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Sonia Martin, personifies this magic through her transformative journey from educator to life coach, the driving force behind Love Loud Coaching and Consulting. From professionals to students, Dr. Martin’s dedication resonates deeply in her community, creating waves of collaboration and excellence. Her initiatives—ranging from convocations for local educators to mental health workshops—epitomize the spirit of empowerment and the remarkable impact of nurturing minds across generations.Weaving spirituality into the fabric of education, Dr. Martin gives us a profo...
2024-02-2024 min