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 Episode 61 of The Town Square Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III unveils Newton County Schools’ new Workforce Development Framework—a bold plan to connect students with real-world careers from kindergarten through 12th grade. Joined by Dr. Shannon Buff and Dr. Tim Schmitt, the conversation highlights how the district is reimagining education by building a K–12 pipeline of career exposure, exploration, and experience. The framework equips students with the clarity, skills, and confidence they need to thrive—whether they’re heading to college, technical school, or straight into the workforce.

More than a program, this framework represents a cultural shift—powered by partnerships with local industries, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Newton County Industrial Development Authority. From third graders learning soft skills to high schoolers earning certifications and dual enrollment credits, Newton County is becoming a model for what 21st-century public education can look like. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, community leaders, and anyone invested in the future of Newton County.

In Episode 60 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall welcome two behind-the-scenes heroes of Newton County: Claudia Minge, church facilitator at Covington First United Methodist Church and longtime coordinator of Change the World Day, and Margaret McDonald, Executive Director of Giving Hands Food Pantry. What begins as a conversation about a one-day event blossoms into a powerful testimony of what happens when a community chooses to serve together. Claudia shares the origin story of Change the World Day—born from a global Methodist challenge to serve outside the church walls—and how it’s evolved into a multifaceted community celebration offering health screenings, a service fair, free food and clothing, live music, and a strong dose of hope. Now in its 17th year, the event has become a staple of Newton County’s identity, not just for what it provides, but for how it brings people together across denominations, backgrounds, and needs.

Margaret adds a compelling layer to the conversation by describing the year-round impact of Giving Hands Food Pantry, which serves over 200 families weekly. From refrigerated box truck deliveries to volunteers helping shoppers “shop with dignity,” the pantry has become a vital lifeline for families navigating rising grocery costs and food insecurity. The annual Change the World Day is a high point for many who rely on the pantry, offering not just food, but resources, human connection, and a sense of celebration. Margaret and Claudia both echo a core theme: when people serve together, they are changed themselves. This episode is a love letter to community spirit, and a reminder that even in a county of over 125,000 people, we can still feel like a small town when we show up for each other.

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, co-host Trey Bailey sit down with Dr. Cody McNutt, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Covington, for a candid and compelling conversation about faith, leadership, and bold decision-making. Dr. McNutt opens up about the emotional and strategic journey behind First Baptist’s controversial decision to demolish its historic sanctuary—a space rich in memory but limited in future functionality. He shares how the church’s “Growing Together” campaign emerged not just as a building project but as a vision for deeper community engagement and Gospel-centered impact in a rapidly growing Newton County.

The conversation moves beyond bricks and mortar to tackle bigger questions about the role of the Church in today’s cultural landscape. Dr. McNutt reflects on the challenges of navigating public opinion, preserving sacred traditions, and leading a congregation toward future-forward ministry. He also discusses the church’s 5–10 year plan, their approach to outreach, and how pastors can stay rooted in calling while adapting to change. Whether you’re a person of faith, a community leader, or just someone who cares about the evolving story of Covington, this episode offers wisdom, transparency, and a refreshing look at the “messy middle” of modern church leadership.

In Episode 58 of The Town Square Podcast, we sit down with Ms. Taylor Moody, the 2024–2025 Newton County Schools Teacher of the Year and a Top 10 Georgia Teacher of the Year finalist. Taylor shares her deeply personal journey from math major to ELA powerhouse, opening up about how a health crisis reshaped her career path and how early classroom heartbreak turned teaching into her life’s calling. With passion and authenticity, she discusses the power of literacy, the urgency of student mental health, and the transformational role teachers play in shaping young lives.

Listeners will be inspired by the real-world projects her students lead—from designing a CPR guidance mat to pitching a migraine relief patch to healthcare leaders—and the way she uses ELA to build confidence, connection, and critical thinking. Ms. Moody also offers practical advice for parents, educators, and community partners looking to support public education in meaningful ways. Her message is clear and timely: “You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.”

In Episode 57 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Scotty Scoggins, candidate for Covington City Council Post 3 West Ward. Scotty shares his vision for Covington through his four campaign pillars: Transparency, Affordability, Smart Growth, and Access to Decision-Making. From his deep community involvement, including leading events like the Vampire Run, to his past candidacy for the school board, Scotty brings a perspective rooted in civic service and local engagement.

This conversation goes beyond campaign talking points, exploring Scotty’s passion for creating opportunities where everyday citizens feel connected to decisions shaping Covington’s future. Trey and Gabriel guide a thoughtful discussion about responsible growth, preserving community values, and the challenges of balancing affordability with progress. Whether you’re a longtime resident or simply curious about local leadership, this episode offers a clear look at the heart of one candidate’s commitment to serving his neighbors.

Representative Tim Fleming of Georgia House District 114 joins Trey Bailey on The Town Square Podcast for a deep dive into politics, elections, and the future of Georgia. A lifelong Newton County resident, small business owner, and experienced public servant, Fleming shares his journey from being one of the youngest County Commissioners in the state to serving as Chief of Staff under then–Secretary of State Brian Kemp. Now in his fourth year under the Gold Dome, Fleming has announced his candidacy for Georgia Secretary of State—a role he knows intimately after nearly eight years inside that very office.

In this episode, Trey and Fleming unpack everything from how a bill really becomes law to the challenges of election security, voter access, and professional licensing. It’s part civics lesson, part campaign launch, and part hometown conversation. Whether you’re a political junkie, a Newton County neighbor, or simply curious about how state government shapes everyday life, this episode offers insights that matter to Georgia’s future.

In Episode 55, Trey sits down with Marshall “MB” McCart—editor of The Piedmont Chronicles, real estate instructor, and proud “citizen journalist”—for a candid tour through the messy middle of local life in the Georgia Piedmont. McCart traces the origins of his blog, why he rejects the “pundit” label, and how deep family roots keep him invested in Covington and Newton County. From rising property taxes and millage rates to traffic fixes that miss the mark, he connects dots between policy, pocketbooks, and quality of life—offering context you won’t get from a press release.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from hot topics, including the Rivian project and the Morgan County Six, home rule vs. state power, and how multifamily development, zoning decisions, and school funding collide with community priorities. McCart’s take isn’t about left vs. right; it’s about accountability, transparency, and keeping decisions close to the people they affect. If you care about how growth, governance, and everyday neighbors shape Newton County’s future, this episode is a must-listen.

Georgia Senator Brian Strickland (District 42) joins Trey Bailey on The Town Square Podcast for a candid conversation about his journey from Henry County farm life to the State Capitol — and now to his recently announced run for Attorney General of Georgia in 2026. Strickland reflects on how his family’s experience with eminent domain shaped his calling to the law, his early days in the General Assembly, and the lessons learned representing a diverse “purple” district that mirrors Georgia itself.

The discussion dives deep into the role of the Attorney General, Strickland’s legislative record on issues like fentanyl, tort reform, and first responder protections, and how faith and family ground his leadership. With honesty and humility, he lays out a vision for an Attorney General’s office that works for everyday Georgians — not partisan politics. This episode is both a personal story and a glimpse into Georgia’s political future.

In Episode 53 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Newton High School Head Football Coach Josh Skelton for an in-depth look at what it takes to lead a program in one of Georgia’s toughest regions. Skelton shares his journey from volunteer assistant to head coach, the origins of the Rams’ #OutworkEverybody culture, and his philosophy on building young men both on and off the field. Listeners will hear candid insights into the changing high school sports landscape—from NIL opportunities to year-round training—and how Newton is adapting to prepare its athletes for success in life, not just on game day.

With the 2025 season fast approaching, Skelton breaks down his roster, spotlighting standout leaders like quarterback Deron Benson and nationally recruited running back Kevin Hartsfield. He also discusses the importance of academic accountability, the excitement around Newton’s upcoming home stadium, and the unmatched intensity of the Newton–Eastside rivalry. Whether you’re a Rams fan, a Newton County neighbor, or just someone who loves the heart of high school football, this conversation delivers the passion, perspective, and community pride that make Friday nights under the lights so special.

Eastside High School head football coach Jay Cawthon joins The Town Square Podcast for a candid conversation about building a winning culture, developing young athletes, and preparing for another season under the Friday night lights. From balancing intense summer workouts with needed rest, to navigating Georgia’s sweltering heat and sudden downpours, Coach Cawthon shares how his staff keeps players safe, focused, and ready for the long season ahead. He highlights the standout veterans, the rising talents eager to make their mark, and the deep sense of pride that comes with wearing the green and white.

But this conversation goes beyond X’s and O’s. Coach Cawthon talks about “The Standard” that defines Eastside football—an expectation of excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the community—and how that culture has sustained the program’s success for decades. We also look ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the 2025 season, including a tough non-region schedule, region battles that determine playoff hopes, and the excitement of a future where each Newton County high school will have its own stadium. Whether you’re a lifelong Eagle fan or simply someone who values leadership and community pride, this episode is worth the listen.

In Episode 51 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Coach Spencer Fortson, head football coach of the Alcovy High School Tigers, for an energetic and inspiring conversation about football, leadership, and community. Coach Fortson shares how he’s building a culture of belief in South Newton County—on and off the field—by focusing on academics, player accountability, and year-round preparation. From a challenging summer without a home practice field to the excitement of a brand-new stadium coming soon, Fortson gives listeners an inside look at the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Tigers.

With the 2025 season’s motto, “Believe,” Fortson aims to unite his players, school, and community behind one vision. He highlights key returning players, talks about the tough early-season schedule, and explains why developing leaders matters just as much as winning games. Whether you’re a Newton County football fan or simply love stories of perseverance and culture change, this episode offers insight into what it takes to build a program that lasts—and a team that believes.

In Episode 50 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Christine Boggs, Executive Director of Willing Helpers Medical Clinic, for an inspiring conversation about faith-driven healthcare and community impact. Christine shares how the clinic—founded in a church basement—now delivers over $3.5 million in free medical care annually to uninsured and low-income residents of Newton County. With just six staff members and the help of over 20 volunteer providers, Willing Helpers offers primary care, prescription assistance, mental health referrals, spiritual support, and more—all with dignity and compassion.

This episode also highlights the clinic’s exciting next chapter: launching a free dental clinic to serve those who have nowhere else to turn for oral healthcare. From training nursing students in compassionate care to witnessing everyday miracles through divine provision, Christine’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when purpose meets passion. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, a potential volunteer, or just someone looking to be inspired, this episode is a must-listen.

In Episode 49 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Molly Melvin, Executive Director of the Newton Community Partnership, for a powerful and insightful conversation about youth empowerment, prevention work, and the often-invisible efforts that shape community health in Newton County. Molly shares how the Partnership—originally formed to address teen pregnancy—has evolved into a vital connector of agencies, schools, and families. With just two staff members, they lead initiatives around suicide prevention, early literacy, and substance misuse education while equipping young people through the Youth Action Team to be peer leaders and community advocates.

The episode dives deep into how prevention is interwoven with every issue facing families—from mental health to academic success—and how the Partnership’s focus on capacity building and collaboration makes a measurable difference. Molly also highlights the challenges of sustaining funding for prevention work, and she calls on listeners to get involved, share resources, and help expand the impact. It’s a hopeful yet realistic look at the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed but is essential to building a stronger, more connected Newton County.

In this powerful and timely episode of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with two legal professionals who are typically courtroom adversaries — District Attorney Randy McGinley and Defense Attorney Kamau Mason — to discuss a shared concern: the rising tide of gun violence among teens in Newton and Walton counties. With the backdrop of new Georgia legislation allowing 13 to 16-year-olds to be tried as adults for certain crimes, McGinley and Mason dive deep into what’s driving these trends, how the law is evolving, and what can be done to prevent more youth from falling into the criminal justice system.

What follows is a raw, honest, and unexpectedly hopeful conversation that highlights the critical role of community, mentorship, and parental involvement. The two men find common ground in their belief that early intervention, meaningful relationships, and strong role models — particularly for young boys — are key to changing the current trajectory. It’s a true “messy middle” conversation that models the kind of dialogue our divided communities desperately need.

In Episode 47 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Ted Cummings, Chairman of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and President of Onyx Media. From his journey growing up in Kingston, Jamaica to leading one of Newton County’s most influential business organizations, Ted shares how his company evolved from a reluctant startup into a global AV and media powerhouse. He offers behind-the-scenes stories from working with Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, and the Department of Defense, and reflects on his passion for serving local churches, building workforce pipelines, and mentoring young talent—some of whom start earning $25/hour as stagehands straight out of high school.

But the conversation goes deeper than business. Ted issues a bold challenge to the community: “Decide what the hell you want to be when you grow up.” He calls on Newton County to develop a clear identity rooted in Southern hospitality, reject the East vs. West divide, and embrace intentional, community-focused growth. As a leader shaping the Chamber’s new strategic plan, Ted champions public education, small business collaboration, and courageous leadership. His vision: a Newton County where neighbors do business with neighbors, industries invest in schools, and unity—not uniformity—drives the future forward.

In Episode 46 of The Town Square Podcast, Mayor Fleeta Baggett returns for a candid and wide-ranging conversation with hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey. From her announcement to run for a second term to the city’s infrastructure challenges, Baggett delivers her trademark blend of straight talk and Southern wit. She discusses the city’s decision to move Covington’s Fourth of July celebration to July 3rd in response to last year’s public safety concerns, and gives listeners a deeper understanding of the controversial stormwater fee, emphasizing its necessity for long-overdue infrastructure improvements. Mayor Baggett also offers insight into Covington’s strategic planning efforts, the upcoming downtown development initiatives, and the challenges of leading with transparency in the age of online criticism.

The episode also explores some of the city’s most pressing social issues, including the disturbing rise in teen gun violence and the cultural shift in parenting, accountability, and community responsibility. Mayor Baggett doesn’t shy away from tough truths, expressing frustration with keyboard warriors and a lack of civic engagement, while calling for more face-to-face conversations and old-school courtesy. As always, the conversation strikes the podcast’s signature tone—serious but approachable, grounded in facts but laced with humor. Whether you’re a Covington resident or simply curious about what local leadership looks like up close, this episode is a must-listen.

In Episode 45 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down for a solo conversation with Dr. Chip West, Chairman of Newton Trails, to explore how a retired hurricane-chasing Air Force officer became one of Newton County’s most passionate advocates for trail development. From thrilling stories of flying into the eye of the storm to the quiet beauty of paved paths winding through Newton County, Dr. West shares how trails are not just for exercise—they’re for connection, conservation, and community.

Tune in as Trey and Chip tackle the “messy middle” of trail development, addressing safety concerns, public misconceptions, economic benefits, and the exciting vision for how Newton Trails could one day connect Oxford to Porterdale—and even link to trail systems that stretch from Atlanta to Savannah. This is a local story with statewide implications and a must-listen for anyone who cares about quality of life, thoughtful growth, and the power of purpose-driven leadership.

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.