In Episode 44 of The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey sits down with Allen Martin, Downtown Coordinator, and Laura Sullivan, Tourism Coordinator for the City of Covington, for an engaging, wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of downtown Covington. From nostalgic stories of childhood adventures and band days to groundbreaking tourism data and economic development plans, this episode captures the heart and hustle behind Covington’s growth. The trio discusses how strategic film tourism, community-focused events, and smart city planning are turning Covington into a nationally recognized destination with over 774,000 unique visitors and \$130 million in visitor spending.

Listeners will learn about major upcoming projects like a new microbrewery, studio space, food hall, and the city’s ambitious Downtown Master Plan, all while enjoying the rich personality and humor of two local leaders deeply invested in their community. With shoutouts to the Covington Downtown Development Authority, Discover Covington, and the power of partnerships, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves the square, believes in smart growth, or just wants a peek into how Covington continues to thrive.

In Episode 43 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Scott Tredeau, founder and publisher of The Newton Community Magazine, for a heartfelt conversation about transformation—both personal and communal. With Gabriel Stovall out due to transportation issues, Trey leads a one-on-one discussion that covers everything from Scott’s recent Small Business of the Year award to the power of telling over 400 stories from across Newton County. Scott opens up about his early years of isolation, anxiety, and addiction, and how his recovery journey through Celebrate Recovery changed not just his life, but his approach to community, purpose, and storytelling.

Listeners will hear how The Newton Community Magazine evolved from a creative side project into a deeply meaningful platform that celebrates the diverse voices of Newton County. Scott shares how art, advocacy, and empathy intersect in the magazine’s design, editorial choices, and outreach efforts. Whether he’s talking about cover art that becomes fundraisers or the stories of misunderstood neighbors like Tony Pless, Scott reminds us that community begins with compassion—and that the messy middle is often where the best stories are born.

In Episode 42 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Gail Rothman, Executive Director of the Newton Education Foundation (NEF), for an enlightening conversation about the foundation’s impressive progress in supporting local schools. They discuss NEF’s achievements, including raising nearly half a million dollars through donations and the Georgia Peach Tax Credit, funding teacher grants, and launching the REAP literacy pilot program in Newton County schools. Gail also shares her journey as the author of Roadmap for Education Foundations, a practical guide aimed at helping communities build and grow their own education foundations.

This episode highlights the critical role that community-driven funding plays in public education, especially as state and federal contributions continue to fall short. Gail offers valuable insights on the power of nonprofits and the necessity of professional leadership to drive success. Whether you’re interested in supporting education in Newton County or learning about the intricacies of nonprofit work, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Judge Layla Zon, Superior Court Judge for the Alcovy Judicial Circuit. The conversation dives into the vital work of the resource court and drug court, programs designed to provide rehabilitation and second chances for individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. Judge Zon shares inspiring success stories from the court, emphasizing the importance of accountability, holistic treatment, and community support in breaking the cycle of addiction and improving lives.

The episode also touches on Judge Zon's journey to the bench, her passion for justice, and the unique, collaborative approach of the resource courts that sets them apart from traditional legal proceedings. With a focus on healing and reintegration, these programs are not only transforming individuals but also saving taxpayer dollars and reducing recidivism. Tune in to hear about this crucial work and how it’s making a real difference in the Newton County community.

In Episode 40 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Abigail Coggin, the current Board Chair and District 5 Representative on the Newton County Board of Education. With 15 years of service, Abigail reflects on her time navigating the challenges of school funding, the tough decisions made during the recession, and the evolving needs of the school district. She shares her personal journey, including her family’s deep-rooted legacy in Newton County and the lessons learned throughout her tenure. In a surprising twist, Abigail announces that she will not seek re-election in 2026, marking a new chapter in her life.

Abigail also opens up about her upcoming transition to becoming the Executive Director of the Newton County Arts Association, where she plans to continue her service to the community through the arts. With a focus on educational and performing arts programs, Abigail highlights upcoming initiatives like summer camps and concert series that aim to foster creativity and bring the community together. This episode is filled with heartfelt reflections, personal stories, and a look at the bright future of both education and the arts in Newton County.

In Episode 39 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Lindsay Dycus, the Executive Director of Alcovy CASA, Inc., to discuss the vital work of child advocacy in Newton and Walton counties. Alcovy CASA trains and supports community volunteers to act as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for children in foster care, ensuring they have a consistent, caring adult in their lives. Lindsay shares her journey in child welfare, the importance of consistency in volunteerism, and how CASA volunteers help reunite families and advocate for the best interests of children in the system.

This episode highlights the transformative power of advocacy, with real-life stories of how CASA has helped children find stability and healing in difficult circumstances. Lindsay also explains how CASA is funded and how listeners can get involved—whether through volunteering or donations—to continue making a difference in the lives of children in foster care. Tune in to learn more about how you can support this incredible organization and make a lasting impact on your community.

In Episode 38 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Jared Rutberg, the City Councilman for Covington's East Ward Post 3. Jared shares his fascinating journey from Black Hawk pilot in the U.S. Army to his current role in public office, providing unique insights into the city’s budget, infrastructure, and the challenges of local governance. The episode covers a wide range of topics, from Jared's personal experiences in the military and small business ownership to his passion for community development through better parks and recreation.

As an advocate for improving Covington, Jared discusses his vision for the city's future, focusing on key infrastructure projects like Floyd Street renovations and the Covington city square upgrades. The conversation also highlights Jared’s efforts to make the city's parks more accessible, including plans for a mountain biking course and expanded recreational facilities. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the practical challenges facing local leaders while also hearing about Jared's personal commitment to serving the community.

In Episode 37 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey have a candid and insightful conversation with Shakila Henderson-Baker, the District 3 representative on the Newton County Board of Education. Shakila, a longtime advocate for public education and mental health, shares her personal journey and her vision for the future of education in Newton County. As a mental health professional and board member, she discusses the importance of integrating mental health services into the school system and the challenges students face today, including trauma, stress, and absenteeism. Shakila also reflects on her leadership philosophy and how her personal mission to serve children and improve education drives her work.

Throughout this episode, Shakila dives deep into the complexities of balancing her roles as a mother, public servant, and advocate. She offers valuable insights into the changing landscape of public education, emphasizing the need for community involvement, equity, and access to opportunities. This episode highlights the power of persistence, the value of diverse perspectives, and the importance of staying true to one’s mission. Tune in for a powerful conversation about leadership, public service, and the future of our schools.

Episode 36: "The Chairman’s Vision: Lanier Sims Discusses Newton County's Growth, Diplomacy, and Community Leadership"

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Lanier Sims, Chairman of the Newton County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), to dive deep into his leadership journey and vision for the future of Newton County. Known for his diplomatic approach and dedication to community development, Lanier shares insights on the growth of the county, his pivotal role in bringing major industries like Archer Aviation to the area, and his time leading the Chamber of Commerce. With a focus on "community first," Lanier’s philosophy is to ensure that growth benefits both businesses and residents alike, preserving the charm of our small town while embracing the opportunities of tomorrow.

This engaging conversation explores Lanier’s strategy for quality development, the challenges of balancing politics and business, and the importance of building relationships across political divides. Whether you're curious about the economic landscape of Newton County or looking for inspiration from a local leader, this episode has it all. Click to read more and hear firsthand how Lanier Sims is shaping the future of our community with his commitment to unity and growth.

In Episode 35 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey is joined by Kurt Petersheim and Dr. Evan Posey for a deep dive into one of the most significant questions in history: Did Jesus really rise from the dead? With Gabriel Stovall absent due to his coverage of the Masters Tournament in Augusta, this episode explores the trustworthiness of the resurrection, examining historical evidence, biblical accounts, and its theological implications. Dr. Posey, an expert in apologetics, offers valuable insights into the textual evidence and the historical context that support the claim of the resurrection, while Kurt and Trey discuss how this event has shaped the Christian faith and transformed the lives of those who believe.

Through a "messy middle" conversation, the episode challenges listeners to think critically about the resurrection's truth and its impact on our lives today. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode offers a compelling exploration of the resurrection as both a historical event and a transformative moment for humanity. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that combines historical inquiry with personal faith, and join Trey, Kurt, and Dr. Posey as they explore the central claim of the Christian faith in a meaningful and engaging way.

In Episode 34 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Coach Jawan Bailey, the head coach of the Newton High School Lady Rams, who recently led the team to a 6A State Championship. Coach Bailey reflects on his journey from Josey High School in Augusta to Newton High, sharing the challenges he faced during a tough start to his first season and the key decisions that led to his team's remarkable turnaround. He discusses the personal and professional struggles he overcame, his coaching philosophy rooted in faith and family, and how he turned the Lady Rams into champions in just two years.

This episode offers a candid look at Coach Bailey’s leadership, resilience, and long-term vision for the program. From the importance of academics and community involvement to the competitive nature of coaching in metro Atlanta, Coach Bailey provides valuable insights into building a successful team both on and off the court. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and how he continues to shape the future of Newton High girls basketball.

Episode 33: "Next Gen Leadership with Zayvion Sheppard: A Conversation with Newton County’s Future Leader"

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Zayvion Sheppard, a rising leader in Newton County and the youngest-ever Student Body President at Georgia State University. Zayvion shares his inspiring journey of leadership, mentorship, and community service, including his work with the Young Democrats of Newton County (YDNC) and his nonprofit, For Atlanta By Atlanta (FABA). From opposing harmful legislation like House Bill 581 to tackling poverty in Atlanta, Zay’s passion for social impact and public service shines through. He talks about his vision for the future of Newton County and how young voices like his can shape the policies that will impact the next generation.

This episode highlights the potential of the next generation of leaders in Newton County. Zay’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership, mentorship, and community engagement are key to building a brighter future. Whether it’s advocating for education, economic empowerment, or creating opportunities for change, Zay’s dedication to making a difference is sure to inspire. Tune in to hear more about how Zay is leading the charge for positive change in Newton County and beyond.

In Episode 32 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with District 3 Commissioner Stephanie Lindsey for a candid and laughter-filled conversation that explores the messy middle of race, politics, and community. The episode covers a range of important local topics, including Black History Month, the legacy of The Newton Six, and the challenges of navigating complex issues like House Bill 581. With plenty of humor and lighthearted moments, Stephanie opens up about her relationships with fellow commissioners, the impact of her district’s development, and the struggles of balancing outspoken advocacy with the perception of being an "angry Black woman."

This episode is a true reflection of what The Town Square Podcast is all about—engaging in tough but essential conversations while finding common ground through humor, honesty, and a shared commitment to building unity in Newton County. Get ready for plenty of laughs, some thought-provoking insights, and a deep dive into the challenges facing local politics today—all served with a dose of fun and realness.

In Episode 31 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Dr. Duke Bradley, the Superintendent of Newton County Schools, for a candid discussion about his first year leading the district. Dr. Bradley shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the school system, touching on everything from student resilience to mental health services and the impact of recent legislation on local education. He also highlights the importance of community collaboration in shaping the future of education and offers insights into how Newton County Schools is fostering student success despite the many obstacles facing public education today.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Bradley reflects on his journey from leading schools in Georgia, South Carolina, and beyond, to his current role in Newton County. He discusses the district’s focus on student well-being, the importance of supporting underperforming schools, and the power of resilience in students who overcome significant challenges. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, optimism, and the steps being taken to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive in school and in life.

In Episode 30 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Travis Moore, the newly elected East Ward, Post 2 representative on the Covington City Council. A lifelong Covington resident, Moore brings a deep-rooted connection to his community and a unique perspective to his role as council member. From his background in public safety and real estate to his passion for preserving the small-town feel of Covington while navigating its rapid growth, Moore shares insights into his vision for the city's future. He emphasizes the importance of responsible development and transparency, particularly through his social media platforms where he keeps residents informed about local government activities.

In this conversation, Moore discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Covington, including the impact of short-term rentals, the film industry, and infrastructure needs. He opens up about his concerns regarding "irresponsible growth" and how he plans to balance development with the preservation of Covington’s charm. Moore also shares his top priorities for the city, including improving public services and supporting community-driven initiatives. This episode offers an engaging look at the issues that matter most to Covington residents and how one of their new council members is working to shape the city's future.

In Episode 29 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Dr. Tavarez Holston, the president of Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC), for a conversation about the importance of technical education in today’s workforce. Dr. Holston discusses the unique role of technical colleges, the most popular and in-demand degree programs at GPTC, and how the college collaborates with local businesses to ensure its offerings meet regional workforce needs. He also shares insights into the new CDL training center, which is poised to help students quickly enter the workforce with skills in high demand, particularly in the trucking industry.

The episode also touches on Dr. Holston’s leadership style, his passion for woodworking as a way to manage the pressures of his role, and the college’s ongoing commitment to workforce development. He emphasizes GPTC’s mission to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s job market, as well as his excitement for upcoming initiatives and programs at the college. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how Georgia Piedmont Technical College is shaping the future of education and creating opportunities for local communities in DeKalb, Newton, and Rockdale counties.

In this bonus episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey engage in a candid and respectful conversation about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They delve into the historical context of the US Constitution and the founding fathers while examining the ongoing challenges of racism in America. With passion and cordiality, Gabriel and Trey explore how DEI is often used as a shorthand for focusing on "black and brown people" and the ways it has been both helpful and, at times, misused. Their goal is to meet in the messy middle—where different perspectives can be shared and common ground can be found.

This episode offers listeners an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of DEI and how we can engage with its initiatives in a way that promotes unity without demanding uniformity. As always, The Town Square Podcast encourages open dialogue, understanding, and respect for diverse opinions. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the way we think about inclusion and the ways forward for a more cohesive society.

In Episode 27 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Stan Edwards, District 1 Commissioner for Newton County, Georgia. A lifelong resident of the county, Stan brings nearly 9 years of experience on the Board of Commissioners and a deep commitment to his community. During the conversation, Stan discusses his approach to policymaking, focusing on the needs of current residents rather than future growth, and shares his thoughts on controversial issues like the Save Our Homes Act (HB 581) and Governor Kemp’s Tort Reform initiative. His perspective on balancing development with the preservation of community values offers a refreshing take on leadership.

The interview also covers Stan’s vision for District 1 and Newton County’s future, touching on successes, challenges, and his dedication to ensuring thoughtful, sustainable growth. With candid reflections on his personal experiences and mistakes made in his early public service, Stan’s story is one of humility, integrity, and a clear plan for navigating the county’s evolving needs. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the pressing issues facing Newton County today and Stan’s long-term goals for its future.

In Episode 26 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey interview Maurice Carter and Nancy Schulz, two dedicated advocates for sustainability and climate action in Newton County. Maurice, co-founder of Sustainable Newton, has led the organization since 2018, working to inspire local residents and businesses to take action against climate change. Nancy, a former Newton County Commissioner and passionate environmental advocate, has dedicated her post-retirement years to advancing sustainability efforts in the community. Together, they share their personal journeys, explain why climate change is an urgent issue, and discuss the impactful initiatives Sustainable Newton is spearheading to create lasting change in the region.

Maurice and Nancy also emphasize the importance of local engagement and collaboration with businesses and governments to address environmental concerns. They highlight the challenges of overcoming skepticism around climate change and provide actionable ways for individuals to contribute to sustainability efforts. With an eye toward the future, they share their vision for upcoming projects and how citizens can get involved. This episode is an inspiring call to action for those looking to make a difference in their community and help shape a greener, more sustainable future for Newton County.

In Episode 25 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with District 5 Commissioner LeAnne Long for a no-nonsense conversation about her bold vision for Newton County. A self-proclaimed conservative with a strong personality, LeAnne is committed to open communication and tackling the issues head-on. She discusses her reasons for running, the importance of balanced growth, and her concerns about the 2023 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the Future Land Use Map. LeAnne also shares her thoughts on property tax reform, with a special focus on tax relief for senior citizens. Tune in for a straight-talking, insightful discussion on the future of Newton County.