Mayberry: Unscripted

In this episode of Mayberry Unscripted , we sit down with Anna Simeonides , owner of Meli Bakehouse , to hear the inspiring story behind one of Downtown Mount Airy's newest bakeries. From her Greek heritage and the family traditions that shaped her love of baking to her appearances on Food Network and the leap of faith that brought Meli Bakehouse to Mount Airy, Anna shares how passion, perseveranc...

In this episode of Mayberry Unscripted , Jenny Smith and Mayor Jon Cawley welcome Ashly Lancaster, President of the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, for a conversation about leadership, community, and the relationships that help make Mount Airy thrive. Ashly shares her unexpected journey to the Chamber, what drew her back to working in her hometown, and why building connections remains at t...

In Episode 10 of Mayberry Unscripted , Jenny Smith and Jamie Johnston sit down with Will Marion, owner of Marion's Jewelry in Downtown Mount Airy. Will shares his unique journey from a career in music to leading one of the community's longstanding family businesses. The conversation explores the history and legacy of Marion's Jewelry, what it was like growing up around the family store, and the re...

In this episode of Mayberry Unscripted , Jenny Smith and Jamie Johnston sit down with Cindy Puckett to explore the story and legacy of Gertrude Smith House. Cindy shares the history of Gertrude Smith, the significance of the historic home, and how the property became a living museum with free admission for the public. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving local history, the stor...

Episode 8 of Mayberry Unscripted goes to the dogs — in the best way possible! 🐾 Hosts Jenny Smith and Jamie Johnston sit down with Roxane Cann, owner and operator of The Dapper Hound, to talk about bringing a unique pet boutique experience to Downtown Mount Airy. From stylish pet accessories and gourmet treats to creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors, Roxane shares the story beh...

Episode 7 of Mayberry Unscripted welcomes Morgan Johnson, Executive Director of Mount Airy Downtown, Inc., for an engaging conversation about the momentum building in downtown Mount Airy. Morgan dives into the importance of collaboration—highlighting how Mount Airy Downtown, Inc. works alongside the City of Mount Airy, local businesses, and partner organizations to create a vibrant, welcoming down...

Episode 6 of Mayberry Unscripted features Warner Dodson, owner of Good Time Trolley Tours and a true ambassador of Mount Airy’s “Mayberry State of Mind.” Warner shares how he turned a simple idea into one of the community’s most beloved experiences—from rebuilding his first trolley to creating memorable tours that showcase the charm, history, and hospitality of Mayberry. Recently named a North Car...

Episode 5 of Mayberry Unscripted features special guest Norm Schultz, who shares the story behind his journey to Mount Airy and the experiences that shaped his path. From his acting career—including appearances on shows like Blue Bloods —to his passion for classic television, Norm reflects on how those influences ultimately led him to Mayberry. Throughout the episode, he often references the “Mayb...

In Episode 4 of Mayberry Unscripted , Mayor Jon Cawley and Jenny Smith of Mount Airy Tourism—sit down with Mikel Snow , owner and operator of Mayberry Motor Inn . Mikel shares the story behind the family-owned motel that was originally started by his grandparents and the legacy they built welcoming visitors to Mount Airy. Growing up around Mayberry Motor Inn, Mikel spent much of his childhood help...

Mayberry Unscripted – Episode 3 Special Guest: Tanya Jones, Executive Director of the Surry Arts Council In Episode 3 of Mayberry Unscripted , Mayor Jon Cawley joins the “3 J’s” of the Visit Mayberry tourism team—Jenny, Jamie, and Jessica—for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Tanya Jones, Executive Director of the Surry Arts Council. Tanya shares her story of growing up with a deep appr...

In Episode 2 of Mayberry Unscripted , hosts Jenny Smith and Jamie Johnston sit down with Mike Cockerham , owner of Mayberry Squad Car Tours , for an in-depth conversation about entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the power of storytelling in tourism. Mike shares the origin story of Squad Car Tours—from the spark of an idea rooted in Mount Airy’s Mayberry legacy to turning that vision into one of t...

Episode 1: “Talkin’ Tourism” Welcome to the very first episode of Mayberry: Unscripted . In this debut conversation, we’re setting the stage by talking about one of the driving forces behind Mount Airy’s growth and vitality—tourism. Host Mayor Jon Cawley is joined by special guests Jessica Icenhour Roberts, Jamie Johnston, and Jenny Smith, the team behind Visit Mayberry, for an open and engaging d...