Advertise on podcast: Flippin' the Switch

Your 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 Friday, March 27 at 10 a.m., and details on youth basketball camp scholarships for rising sixth and seventh graders. Along the way, you’ll get winter readiness tips, safety reminders, and a clear path to making 2026 your most efficient year yet. Ready to take control? Follow your daily usage, try one small habit change this week, and explore the free EnergyWise tools at joemc.com. 

A 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 difference: start with what you love and use it to help someone else. We round out the episode with practical holiday energy-saving and safety tips, plus a look at PowerBucks—an easy way to help a neighbor with their electric bill. If this story inspired you, share it, subscribe, and consider writing a card of your own. Sometimes, the smallest gestures bring the most warmth.

On 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 for a 28-acre farm. That future farm will supply disaster relief hubs and help the community learn where to turn long before an emergency hits. We also dive into their transitional housing project: 111 units designed with on-site services for therapy, substance-use support, documentation, banking, and job pathways that help people rebuild long-term. United Way’s reentry efforts show what’s possible when barriers come down. And in a rapid-fire segment, Joe—our lineman preparing to join NRECA International in Guatemala—reminds us how technical skills can become life-changing service. Bringing electricity to a village opens doors in education, health, and opportunity. Want to help? Volunteer through Volunteer Onslow, donate at uwonslow.org, or share this episode with someone who believes local action creates lasting change.

What 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 of what makes this program so powerful.  For any high school juniors listening, applications open in December for next summer's trip. Check our website or social media for details on how you could experience this transformative opportunity. As Gianna's story demonstrates, some lessons can only be learned by walking in the footsteps of history. Run Time: 19 Minutes

Leadership 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 meaningful turn as we spotlight the cooperative's Bright Ideas grant program for teachers with Community and Communications Director Krystal Phillips. Whether you're curious about the cooperative's leadership transition, community development, or educational support initiatives, this episode showcases how Jones-Onslow continues evolving while remaining true to our cooperative principles. Ready to learn more about the people and programs that make your electric cooperative special? Listen now and discover the stories behind the service. Run Time: 23 Minutes

What 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 call, but Amanda explains why your reports of specific issues like downed trees or damaged equipment dramatically speed up restoration times. Whether you're curious about how your electric cooperative works or appreciate the satisfaction of understanding the systems that power modern life, this conversation illuminates the human element behind every watt of electricity flowing through your home.

Grab 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 community connection. Players from across the country and even overseas find temporary homes with local host families, creating bonds that extend far beyond the diamond. These college athletes, all looking to perfect their craft during the summer months, bring high-level baseball right to our backyard while becoming honorary members of Jacksonville families. North Carolina has a rich baseball tradition, producing legends like Catfish Hunter and Gaylord Perry. Now, Jacksonville is writing its own chapter in that story. With the All-Star Game coming up on June 28th featuring a Home Run Derby and pre-game festivities, there's never been a better time to catch Osprey fever. Become part of our baseball community and watch as Jacksonville's newest tradition takes flight!

Electricity 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. Run Time: 25 minutes

In 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 niece, Martin brings to life the wonder, adjustment, and cultural curiosity that define the military child experience. Martin, who also illustrated the book, shares how his Marine Corps background helped him authentically shape Breezy’s journey—offering a touching tribute to the adaptability and creativity of military kids. His message to young readers echoes throughout the episode: embrace every new place, capture memories beyond the camera, and stay open to the beauty of the unknown. Listen now! Run Time: 24 Minutes

Each 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.com/2025annualmeeting to view official documents and a full list of this year's prize winners!

Ready 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 cooling system requires attention to run efficiently as we switch to cooling mode. We dig into practical strategies that make a real difference, from proper ceiling fan direction settings to the ideal thermostat temperature ranges recommended by the Department of Energy. TJ also explains how your landscaping choices impact energy efficiency, particularly around outdoor HVAC units, and offers money-saving tips for pool owners facing potentially high pump operation costs. And, of course, tune into the end of the episode to catch Watts Happening at your co-op this month. Listen now! Run Time: 12 minutes

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 Natalie Oldani keeps you up-to-date on cooperative happenings for the month! Run Time: 17 minutes.

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 now calls home. Plus, receive exciting information about local events that celebrate culture, connection, and growth.  Run Time: 18 minutes

Unlock 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 comprehensive guide and make the most of the resources available to you in 2025!

Unlock 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 up about its life-changing programs. From the Caring Community Clinic’s vital medical services to the nurturing environment of the Christmas Cheer program, the outreach's efforts are creating paths to stability and happiness in Onslow County. This episode highlights the importance of volunteerism, and the collaborative efforts needed to tackle challenges such as homelessness and mental health. Learn how these initiatives provide immediate relief and foster dignity, choice, and joy for families during the holiday season. Run Time: 31 Minutes