In this episode of Mayberry Unscripted, we sit down with Dr. Phillip Brown, Superintendent of Mount Airy City Schools, for a wide-ranging conversation about education, leadership and what it means to prepare students for the future. Dr. Brown shares his journey from beginning his career as a teacher assistant and bus driver to eventually becoming superintendent, along with some of the programs he is most proud to see growing within Mount Airy City Schools—including dual-language immersion, AVID and the Blue Bear Café.

The conversation also explores some of the biggest issues facing schools and families today, from screen time and changing technology to artificial intelligence, reading, parent involvement and the challenges teachers face in the classroom. Dr. Brown discusses the district’s commitment to individual student growth and its “100% Promise”—a commitment to not give up on any student. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, personal stories and a reminder that education is ultimately about relationships, community and giving every student the opportunity to succeed.

Step into the world of The Andy Griffith Show with one of its most knowledgeable historians. On this episode of Mayberry Unscripted, Jenny, Jamie, and Mayor Jon Cawley sit down with author and lecturer Neal Brower, whose lifelong passion for the series has led him to correspond with its writers, connect with cast and crew members, teach college courses devoted to the show, and spend decades uncovering the stories behind Mayberry. Neal shares fascinating details about how the series was filmed, Andy Griffith’s influence behind the scenes, the writers who shaped some of its most memorable episodes, and even how Don Knotts helped create the character of Barney Fife.

The conversation also explores why The Andy Griffith Show continues to resonate more than six decades later. Neal discusses the realism of Mayberry, the love and respect among its characters, the moral lessons woven throughout the stories, and the sense of hope that remains at the heart of the show. He shares why “Man in a Hurry” stands out as a favorite, reflects on Mount Airy’s special connection to Andy Griffith and Mayberry fans, and gives listeners a glimpse into his ongoing research—including another book project exploring original scripts and material that never made it to the screen. It’s an episode filled with behind-the-scenes stories, Mayberry trivia, laughter, and a deeper appreciation for the timeless show that continues to bring generations of fans together.

In this episode of Mayberry Unscripted: Aviation, Adventure & Mayberry, we sit down with Jeanette Hege, Airport Operations Supervisor at the Mount Airy–Surry County Airport, to hear about a career that has taken her from the cockpit of corporate jets to serving her home community. Jeanette shares how her passion for flying began, her journey through flight school and corporate aviation—including time flying for companies like Krispy Kreme and Renfro Corporation—and what ultimately brought her back home to Surry County.

We also take a closer look at the exciting growth happening at the Mount Airy–Surry County Airport. Jeanette talks about the impact of the new terminal, increased flight activity, the addition of a flight school, and the popularity of The Updraft Kitchen, which has helped turn the airport into a destination of its own. Along the way, we discuss the airport’s role in tourism and economic development, what it’s like being a woman in aviation, and a few memorable stories from Jeanette’s years in the industry. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about what’s happening beyond the runway, this episode offers a whole new perspective on one of Surry County’s unique assets.