In this Veterans Day edition of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey welcomes Capt. Bret Dunn—Newton County native, Marine Corps officer, attorney, and Republican candidate for Georgia Senate District 42. From the quiet streets of Mansfield to the yellow footprints of Quantico and the courtroom of Strauss & Dunn, Bret’s journey reveals how faith, family, and service have shaped his mission. He shares the lessons his Marine father taught him, his path through Mercer Law School and the U.S. Marine Corps, and what Veterans Day truly means to those who’ve worn the uniform.

Now back home as a partner attorney and community leader, Capt. Dunn opens up about humility, servant leadership, and why he believes the mission to serve never ends. He discusses his campaign values—defending life, supporting law enforcement, strengthening families, and restoring faith in public life—while offering a hopeful vision for the future of Newton County and Georgia Senate District 42. This inspiring conversation reminds us that real leadership begins not with titles, but with towels.

(Listen now at TheTownSquarePodcast.com or watch on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.)

In this week’s episode of The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey sits down with Covington City Councilman Travis Moore (East Ward Post 2) for a candid conversation about two of the most talked-about issues in town—the city’s recent purchase of property from Cinelease/Three Ring Studios and the new ordinance banning for-profit cemetery tours. Amid Facebook rumors and public confusion, Moore breaks down what really happened, explaining how the $15 million Cinelease acquisition was funded through MEAG and the Municipal Competitive Trust—not taxpayer dollars—and why it will help streamline city utilities, save money, and improve efficiency.

The conversation also dives into the viral controversy over cemetery tours that led to heated debates about respect, history, and tourism. Moore, the only council member to vote “no” on the ordinance, shares why he believes the decision unfairly targets a small local business and sends the wrong message about Covington’s hospitality. Along the way, the discussion highlights Moore’s reputation for transparent communication, his advocacy for small businesses, and his vision for a thriving, welcoming downtown Covington.

(Listen now at TheTownSquarePodcast.com or watch on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.)

In Episode 62 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Rockdale County Chairwoman JaNice Van Ness to explore a story that bridges politics, purpose, and practical leadership. A former Georgia State Senator, founder of Peachtree Academy, and now Chair and CEO of the Rockdale County Board of Commissioners, Van Ness shares how her journey from Capitol Hill to the county courthouse has been shaped by faith, fiscal responsibility, and a passion for servant leadership. She discusses her surprising party switch, her approach to budgeting, and the growing need for community collaboration across county lines.

Whether she’s reducing millage rates, planting churches through her school, or playing pickleball to stay balanced, Van Ness demonstrates how local leaders can drive big change without losing sight of the people they serve. This episode offers a refreshing look at what it means to lead from the middle—where practical solutions matter more than political labels, and where faith and service are at the heart of every decision.

"In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Representative Tim Fleming, who represents District 114, covering much of Newton County, Morgan County, and parts of Walton County. Fleming offers insights into the recent local elections, discussing the victories of LeAnne Long and Stan Edwards, as well as the surprising defeat of long-time Coroner Tommy Davis by newcomer Kimberly Griggs. He also shares his perspective on the broader national political landscape, from the Presidential election results to the Republican party's momentum in Congress.

Fleming emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship in government, revealing how he collaborates with both Republicans and Democrats to pass meaningful legislation for the people of Georgia. The conversation also delves into local issues like population growth, transportation challenges, and affordable housing, as Fleming discusses potential solutions to ensure the continued prosperity of his district. Tune in to hear a thoughtful, in-depth discussion about Georgia’s future and the path forward for Newton County."