This week, Trey Bailey sits down with Detective DJ Seals of the Covington Police Department for a conversation that is equal parts informative, funny, practical, personal, and deeply local.

If you’ve been around Covington or Newton County for any amount of time, there’s a good chance you know DJ Seals — or at least you know his voice.

Some know him from radio. Some know him from law enforcement. Some know him as the booming, joyful voice announcing Miracle League baseball games. Others know him from his years of community service, public safety work, and willingness to show up wherever he is needed.

But in this episode, listeners get a fuller picture of DJ Seals: the broadcaster, the detective, the fraud investigator, the storyteller, the community servant, and the guy who has somehow lived enough interesting chapters to make Trey compare him to “the most interesting man in the world.”

DJ, of course, laughed that off.

But by the end of the episode, it was pretty clear Trey wasn’t completely wrong.

From Radio Voice to Detective Seals

The conversation begins with DJ’s name — literally.

DJ stands for Daniel Jonathan, though almost everyone has always called him DJ. That made things especially amusing when he worked in radio, because people naturally assumed “DJ” was his radio name.

It wasn’t.

It was just his name.

DJ talked about his early days in radio, including time at WGFS 1430 and later with Atlanta’s 104.7 The Fish. Trey remembered first connecting with him during his Eastridge Church days, when the church was hosting concert events and The Fish brought out its van and promotional team.

That radio background matters because it helps explain part of what makes DJ such a compelling guest. He knows how to tell stories. He knows how to communicate. And now, in his role with the Covington Police Department, he is using those same skills to educate the public about fraud, scams, identity theft, and personal safety.

DJ previously served with CPD before stepping away after a serious car accident and later moving into the world of law enforcement software. In that role, he worked with agencies across all 50 states and eight countries, helping teach best practices around real-time crime centers, drone systems, investigations, SWAT support, and technology tools.

But recently, a conversation with Chief Brent Fuesting led DJ back to the badge.

He had gone to the police department to drop off backpacks his church had prepared for homeless individuals and children who may be present during difficult law enforcement scenes. Those backpacks included small items like fidgets and comfort tools — simple things that can help a child regulate during stressful moments.

One conversation with the chief turned into another.

About a week later, DJ was back with the Covington Police Department.

Fraud, Forgery, Identity Theft — and a Changing World

DJ now focuses heavily on fraud, forgery, identity theft, and scams.

Some of that work is familiar to him from his earlier law enforcement career, but the world has changed dramatically. Identity theft was still a relatively new concept when DJ first worked in this space. Laws were still catching up. Technology was evolving. Investigators often had to do much of the work by hand.

Today, the tools are better.

Unfortunately, so are the criminals.

DJ explained that the core work of investigation is still the same, but the process has changed. Technology gives investigators more ways to track patterns and gather information, but it also gives scammers more ways to deceive, manipulate, and hide.

And the scams themselves have evolved.

The old stereotype was the “Nigerian prince” email — someone promising gold bars or a giant inheritance in exchange for a fee.

DJ said today’s scams are often much more realistic.

They look official.

They use familiar institutions.

They rely on public information.

And most importantly, they are built around emotion.

Fear and Love: The Two Big Hooks

One of the strongest themes from the episode is DJ’s explanation that modern scams are less about greed and more about emotion.

The old scams often worked by promising people money.

Today’s scams usually work by creating fear or exploiting love.

Fear shows up in fake toll notices, fake warrant threats, fake court documents, fake postal service claims, and fake Federal Trade Commission threats. A person receives a text, email, or phone call saying they owe money, missed court, have a warrant, or need to pay immediately to avoid arrest.

Love shows up in relationship scams.

DJ said relationship fraud is one of the biggest things he is seeing right now.

These scams often begin on social media. A stranger comments on a photo, sends a message, finds a point of connection, and slowly builds trust. It is what DJ described as a “long con.” The scammer may spend weeks or months building what feels like a real relationship.

Eventually, the request comes.

Money for a car repair.

Money for a child.

Money for travel.

Money for a medical issue.

And once money starts moving, the losses can become devastating.

DJ shared that his own aunt lost $180,000 in a relationship scam before the family knew what had happened. DJ confirmed that these stories are not rare, and they are heartbreaking because the victim often believes the relationship is real.

That makes the investigator’s job even harder.

DJ said one of the most difficult parts is not simply investigating the crime. It is helping the victim understand that they have been deceived.

There is grief.

There is shame.

There is embarrassment.

And DJ was clear: victims should not carry that shame.

These scammers are professionals. This is what they do. They are trained, organized, and skilled at manipulation.

The Rise of Bitcoin Scams

Another major warning from DJ: be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to pay through a Bitcoin ATM.

Fake warrant scams, relationship scams, and other fraud schemes increasingly route victims toward Bitcoin machines. The scammer tells the victim to deposit thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM to clear a warrant, pay a fee, help a loved one, or resolve an urgent problem.

DJ explained why this is so dangerous.

Traditional financial institutions can be subpoenaed. Banks have fraud departments. Investigators can track certain transactions.

Bitcoin is different.

It is largely unregulated, often international, and can be extremely difficult to recover once money is sent.

DJ described Bitcoin as the “Wild West.”

His advice was blunt: if someone is asking you to put money into a Bitcoin machine, that is almost certainly a scam.

Fake Warrants, Toll Texts, Funeral Scams, and More

DJ walked through several common scams circulating right now.

One is the fake toll text. Many people have received messages claiming they owe money for unpaid tolls. Those scams became so widespread that scammers eventually shifted into other tactics.

One newer version is the fake warrant scam.

A person receives a document or message saying there is a warrant for their arrest because they missed court. The document may include real-sounding language, fake seals, judge names, county references, or courthouse addresses.

But DJ said there are usually clues.

The county may not match.

The judge may be from the wrong jurisdiction.

The address may be wrong.

The language may sound official, but the details do not hold together.

The problem is that panic makes people miss those clues.

DJ told the story of a friend who was standing at a gas station, ready to put thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin machine because he believed he had a warrant. DJ told him to walk away, calm down, sit in his truck, and actually read the document.

Once the panic faded, the errors were obvious.

Another emerging scam DJ mentioned is the funeral scam.

Scammers read obituaries, gather family information, identify the funeral home, and call grieving relatives pretending to be from the funeral home. They may claim that insurance did not cover a final bill and ask for a credit card payment.

It is cruel.

It is targeted.

And it works because people are grieving and vulnerable.

Social Media: Would You Do This in Person?

DJ offered a simple rule that may be the most memorable piece of advice from the episode:

Would you do this in person?

Would you give a stranger on the Covington Square $5,000 because they said their car broke down?

Would you walk up to someone you have never met and tell them about your grandkids, your dog, your family, your church, your schedule, and your personal life?

Most people would say no.

But online, the barrier feels lower.

There is a screen between people. There is a sense of safety. A person can seem kind, familiar, interested, and trustworthy.

DJ said that is exactly what scammers exploit.

His advice is not to stop talking to people altogether. It is to keep your guard up. Ask questions. Verify details. Do not assume a person is who they claim to be simply because they know a few facts about you.

And if someone begins asking for money, gift cards, Bitcoin, favors, or urgent help — slow down.

Ask questions.

Call someone you trust.

Call DJ.

Call law enforcement.

Do not let urgency make the decision for you.

Protecting Older Adults and Vulnerable Loved Ones

One of the most practical parts of the conversation centered on family members and caregivers.

DJ said he currently has cases where the victim did not initiate the report. A caregiver or relative noticed something odd and reached out because they suspected their loved one was being scammed.

That matters.

If you have an older parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, or friend who spends time on social media, pay attention.

Not in a controlling way.

In a caring way.

If you see unfamiliar people commenting frequently or appearing in their online circle, ask gentle questions.

Who is that?

How do you know them?

Where are they from?

Have they asked you for anything?

DJ said those questions can help identify a scam before money is lost.

He also emphasized that many victims are not careless or foolish. Many are lonely, trusting, grieving, or simply unaware of how sophisticated these scams have become.

And some are very tech savvy.

This can happen to anyone.

Fraud Prevention Classes for the Community

One of the most encouraging parts of the episode is that DJ is not just investigating these crimes after they happen.

He wants to prevent them.

DJ is offering free fraud prevention conversations for schools, churches, civic organizations, retirement communities, and other local groups. These sessions are designed to be practical and conversational. He wants people to bring questions, share concerns, and learn how to spot scams before they become victims.

He made it clear that these are not credit repair classes or technical financial seminars.

They are awareness conversations.

What scams are happening right now?

What should people look for?

Who should they call?

What are the red flags?

How do families protect vulnerable loved ones?

DJ’s goal is simple: if one person recognizes a scam before sending money, it is worth it.

To schedule a fraud prevention conversation with Detective DJ Seals:

Phone: 770-385-2127

Email: daniel.seals@covingtonpolice.com

The Team Behind the Badge

DJ also made a point to emphasize that this work is not done alone.

He talked about the detectives and officers at CPD who each bring different strengths to the table. Some are especially strong with social media. Some are strong with research. Some specialize in other investigative tools or processes.

When a case gets complicated, the team works together.

DJ said he has never had a problem asking for help, and he sees that as a strength.

That spirit of teamwork matters because fraud cases can involve multiple victims, stolen identities, out-of-state actors, international phone numbers, fake accounts, financial records, and larger criminal networks.

Sometimes a small local case reveals a much larger machine.

DJ said when investigators can identify patterns and connect cases, they may be able to bring in larger agencies and pursue bigger targets.

The goal is not just to catch the small cog.

The goal is to expose the larger network.

The Joy of Miracle League Baseball

After a heavy conversation about scams, fraud, fear, and vulnerability, the episode ends on a joyful note.

For many in Newton County, DJ Seals is the voice of Miracle League baseball.

He has been announcing games for more than 11 years, and it is obvious that the Miracle League holds a special place in his heart.

DJ told the story of how his wife first heard that the league needed help with announcing. He showed up, sat down, and quickly realized there was a lot of space between names being called.

So he started calling the games like a real baseball broadcast.

A kid hit the ball, and DJ launched into full announcer mode.

The crowd loved it.

The players loved it.

And he has been doing it ever since.

What began with four teams of six players has grown dramatically. DJ said the most recent season included 16 teams and 195 players.

He described Miracle League as a place of pure joy — so much so that he joked it deserves the title “the happiest place on earth.”

For DJ, it is also personally restorative.

After a difficult day, he can put on his Miracle League jersey, head to the field, hear the first song, and feel the weight of the day lift.

That part of the conversation captures something important about DJ Seals.

Yes, he is a detective.

Yes, he investigates serious crimes.

Yes, he works fraud cases that involve real pain and real victims.

But he is also deeply connected to the community in ways that go beyond the badge.

He serves.

He shows up.

He brings joy.

And he uses his voice — literally and figuratively — to make Newton County a better place.

Final Thoughts

Episode 92 is a reminder of why The Town Square Podcast exists.

This is not just a show about politics, elections, or public issues. It is a show about people who are working in different corners of the community to make life better, safer, stronger, and more connected.

Detective DJ Seals brings a rare combination of humor, experience, compassion, technical knowledge, and old-fashioned community care.

He understands the scams.

He understands the victims.

He understands the systems.

And he understands that education may be one of the most powerful tools we have.

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, church leader, business owner, older adult, or just someone who has ever received a suspicious text message, this episode is worth your time.

Because the scams are changing.

The criminals are getting better.

And the best defense is a community that knows what to look for.

Episode Sponsors:

All Air

This episode is also sponsored by All Air, serving Covington and the greater Atlanta area with heating, cooling, maintenance, repairs, full system installations, free replacement estimates, free second opinions, and flexible financing options. All Air offers 10% off for military veterans and senior citizens. Mention The Town Square Podcast for $25 off your next repair service.

Call 770-761-9914 or visit allairservices.com.

The Appalachia Group Insurance

This episode of The Town Square Podcast is sponsored by The Appalachia Group Insurance. Bobby Stevens and his partner Matt McLean are licensed in Georgia and Tennessee and bring more than 36 years of combined insurance experience. As an independent agency, they are not limited to one carrier, which allows them to shop for coverage that fits the needs of each client.

They offer auto, home, life, commercial, and special event insurance coverage.

Contact: Bobby Stevens

Phone: 770-728-1880

Email: bobby@appgroupins.com

Mason shares how his journey began far from Newton County, growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before moving to Georgia, buying his first home in Newton County, and eventually feeling called into public service. What began as a desire to serve his community through ministry, outreach, and local involvement eventually became a run for county commission in 2018.

For Mason, public service is deeply connected to ministry. He describes elected office as a way to serve people, listen to their concerns, educate residents about how government works, and advocate for the needs of his district.

Throughout the conversation, Mason reflects on nearly eight years in office and points to several District 2 projects he is proud of, including the widening of Salem Road, improvements at Denny Dobbs Park, the county’s first splash pad and skate park, the new Senior Enrichment Center, and ongoing work toward a future recreation and aquatic center.

A major theme of the episode is growth. District 2 is the smallest commission district geographically, but Mason notes that it carries the highest population density in Newton County. Because of that, he says infrastructure, commercial development, public safety, and quality of life are all deeply connected.

Mason discusses his support for economic development, including new retail growth along the Salem Road and Brown Bridge corridors, and explains how he tries to balance residential growth with the need for restaurants, entertainment, services, jobs, and commercial investment closer to where District 2 residents live.

The conversation also explores public safety, including Mason’s support for increased sheriff’s office funding, more deputy presence in District 2, and the creation of the Westside precinct. Mason says visible law enforcement presence is an important quality-of-life issue for residents.

Trey and Mason also talk about the role of partisanship in local government. Mason, a Democrat, emphasizes that while candidates may run under party labels, governing requires serving everyone. He says residents do not ask for road repairs, trash pickup, or county services as Democrats or Republicans — they ask as people who deserve responsive government.

Toward the end of the episode, Mason highlights issues he believes deserve more attention, especially Newton County’s unsheltered population. He discusses efforts to connect housing, mental health resources, substance abuse support, workforce training, and job placement into a more complete pathway for people in need.

As Mason asks voters for another term, he frames his candidacy around servant leadership, accessibility, experience, and unfinished work in District 2.

For more information on Commissioner Demond Mason check out his website here: Demond Mason 4 Commissioner

Episode Sponsors

SCB Construction Group

SCB Construction Group is a locally owned, community-driven commercial construction company and an Engineering News-Record Top 100 Southeast contractor. SCB specializes in turnkey design-build, design-bid, and commercial contracting services for projects ranging from manufacturing facilities and distribution centers to churches, sports complexes, office spaces, and retail buildings. Learn more at scbcg.com.

Main Street Land and Properties

Main Street Land and Properties provides commercial and residential property management, brokerage services, real estate development, and construction management. Located at 2141 Emory Street NW in Covington, Main Street serves as a trusted partner for buying, selling, investing, managing, and developing property. Learn more at mslap.com.

Strong describes herself as a lifelong Newton County resident, wife, mother, woman of faith, and community advocate. She shares that her motivation for running comes from a desire to serve people and help ensure residents feel heard by local government.

Throughout the conversation, Strong returns often to the phrase at the center of her campaign: “Your Voice, Our Future.” For her, that means listening to constituents, hosting town halls, improving communication from county government, and making decisions with the people of District 2 in mind.

A major topic in the interview is growth. Strong says many residents she has spoken with are concerned about whether Newton County’s infrastructure, public safety staffing, teachers, firefighters, deputies, and services can keep pace with continued development. She also says residents are asking for more opportunities and programs for young people, including progress on a long-discussed youth center.

Public safety is another major theme. Strong discusses her belief that county commissioners have a responsibility to work closely with law enforcement, fire services, and emergency response agencies to help keep the community safe. She also shares concern about ambulance response times and says she would like Newton County to revisit how emergency medical services are handled.

The conversation also explores transparency, accessibility, and unity. Strong says she would like to see more town halls, better communication, and more opportunities for county officials and community agencies to work together. She points to a community event she helped organize with the health department, fire services, sheriff’s office, and local families as an example of what she calls “One Newton.”

Outside of politics, Strong shares her love for family, faith, cooking, barbecue, and community gatherings. She closes the episode by encouraging voters to make their voices heard in the May 19 primary.

Find out more about Tamara Strong at her campaign Facebook page: Elect Tamara Strong for District 2 Commissioner

Episode Sponsors

All Air

When it comes to heating, cooling, and healthy air in Covington and the greater Atlanta area, All Air is known for reliable repairs, maintenance, full system installations, free estimates on replacements, free second opinions, and flexible financing options. They also offer 10% off for military, veterans, and senior citizens.

Call 770-761-9914 or visit allairservices.com. Mention this podcast for $25 off your next repair service.

Luther Rice College and Seminary

Luther Rice College and Seminary offers biblical, affordable, accredited, and completely online programs designed for students, adult learners, ministry leaders, and working professionals. Programs include dual enrollment, undergraduate degrees, certificate programs, and doctoral-level study.

Learn more at LutherRice.edu.

District 118 includes the south side of Newton County, extends down Highway 36 into BOE/BOC District 1, includes all of Butts County, and covers much of Monroe County. It is a geographically large and politically diverse district — one that Lewis says deserves active representation, clear communication, and leadership that is willing to listen across party lines.

Lewis introduced herself as a Newton County homeowner, mother, entrepreneur, and first-time candidate. She moved to Covington in 2017, bought her first home in 2020, and has three daughters, including a bonus daughter serving in the United States Navy. She shared that her maiden name is actually Covington, joking that when she moved to Georgia, the city seemed to be “calling her name.”

Professionally, Lewis brings a background in criminal justice, counseling, marketing, communications, and entrepreneurship. She earned her undergraduate degree in criminal justice from Fayetteville State University, followed by two master’s degrees — one in professional counseling and another in public relations and marketing. After working in the mental health field, she transitioned into marketing and launched her own firm in 2012.

Lewis said her work has included marketing strategy, legal case amplification, advocacy communications, and organizing one of the largest Caribbean-themed cruises. She also shared that her company was recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses in 2024 and won recognition for a healthcare marketing campaign tied to breast cancer research.

When asked why she decided to run, Lewis said she was initially contacted by an organization called The Fighting 50, which encouraged her to consider public office. After conversations with the organization and her family, she began to see the campaign as a natural extension of work she had already been doing — advocacy, communications, problem-solving, and public engagement.

Her family’s support helped solidify the decision. Lewis said her daughters and parents reminded her of the work she had already done, the countries she had traveled to, the businesses she had built, and the advocacy she had been part of. That encouragement pushed her to step into the race.

Lewis also said she did not believe any candidate — Democrat or Republican — should simply be handed the opportunity to represent a district. In her view, public office should be earned through listening, engagement, and work.

Throughout the conversation, Lewis returned often to a central theme: people want to be heard.

As she has campaigned across the district, Lewis said the response has been encouraging. She described voters as excited that someone is knocking on doors, asking questions, and giving them an opportunity to share their concerns. Even when people disagree with her politically, she said many have still been willing to engage.

The top issues she said she is hearing from voters include healthcare costs, housing affordability, property taxes, and the rising cost of everyday life.

Lewis said many residents moved to communities like Newton, Butts, and Monroe counties to avoid the high cost of living found closer to Atlanta. But as housing prices rise and new homes are built in the $400,000 to $500,000 range, some residents are beginning to feel those same financial pressures following them.

She connected those concerns personally to her own daughters, saying young adults are beginning to wonder whether they will ever be able to afford homes of their own.

When asked how she would approach affordable housing from the state level, Lewis said she brings what she described as a common-sense and analytical mindset. She argued that complex problems require more than slogans and that elected officials should focus less on claiming credit for legislation and more on whether policies actually improve people’s lives.

Lewis emphasized that she is not a career politician and said she believes politics has too often become like a football game, with each side more focused on winning for its team than solving problems for the people watching from the stands.

Her background in communications also shaped much of the conversation. District 118, as Trey noted, is politically diverse and now leans Republican after redistricting. Lewis, running as a Democrat, said reaching voters across that landscape requires more than speeches and campaign talking points. It requires communication, explanation, and relationship-building.

She argued that many elected officials need stronger communication skills, especially when it comes to explaining complicated policy decisions to everyday voters. Lewis said voters may not always know the name or number of a bill, but when the issue is explained clearly, they often have thoughtful opinions about it.

One of the strongest moments in the episode came when Lewis shared a story about meeting two Republican women at City Pharmacy restaurant on the Covington Square. After introducing herself as a candidate, Lewis said the women told her they were Republicans. Her response was that she wanted to talk with them and better understand their perspective.

That conversation continued beyond dinner, eventually moving to their home, where they talked for hours. Lewis said they did not agree on every issue, but they better understood one another’s experiences and perspectives by the end of the conversation.

For Lewis, that kind of exchange represents what politics should look like: honest, respectful, curious, and focused on finding shared concerns.

That story fit naturally with the mission of The Town Square Podcast — stepping into the messy middle, not to force agreement, but to create understanding.

The discussion then moved into affordability, taxes, and the balance between growth and responsibility. Lewis said she believes growth can be good for communities when it is planned strategically and produces a return on investment. As an entrepreneur, she said she understands that growth should eventually help pay for itself.

At the same time, she pushed back against simplistic arguments around taxes. Lewis said she would love to eliminate taxes, but basic community needs — roads, schools, public safety, and services — still have to be funded. The issue, in her view, is not simply whether taxes exist, but whether government is using public dollars wisely and producing results for the people.

Education became one of the most passionate parts of the conversation.

Lewis said success for students in District 118 means opportunity — not just in one form, but holistic opportunity for every student. She talked about literacy, safety, mental health, workforce readiness, school funding, and accountability.

She shared that she pulled her youngest daughter out of a Newton County high school because of concerns about safety, mental health support, and disruptions that affected her ability to focus. Her daughter is now graduating a year early, working full-time, and exploring entrepreneurship.

Lewis said Georgia must be willing to learn from places that have improved literacy outcomes, including Mississippi, which has been widely discussed for its major improvements in reading achievement. She said the state should be humble enough to study what works elsewhere and apply those lessons.

A major part of the education conversation focused on Georgia’s school funding formula, often referred to as the QBE formula, which was created in the 1980s. Trey noted that the formula dates back to a very different era — a time before modern school technology, today’s safety concerns, and many of the current expectations placed on public schools.

Lewis said it troubles her when elected officials talk about the need to update the formula but have been in positions to help change it for years. If elected, she said she would want to understand why it has not been updated and what barriers are preventing reform.

She also questioned whether Georgia should be proud of large budget surpluses when schools, healthcare, and families are still struggling. Lewis argued that a surplus should not be treated only as a bragging point if the state is not adequately meeting the needs of children and families.

The conversation then shifted to one of the most personal and powerful parts of Lewis’s public advocacy work: Miya’s Law.

Lewis explained that she became involved after receiving a call that a young woman named Miya Marcano was missing. Miya’s father was connected to the Caribbean cruise community that Lewis helps organize. Initially, Lewis stepped in to help manage media attention and organize information so the family could focus on finding Miya.

Miya was later found deceased. Lewis described the grief of sitting with Miya’s family and the immediate conviction that something had to change so other families would not experience the same tragedy.

Lewis helped support the family in launching the Miya Marcano Foundation, raising awareness around missing persons cases, and advocating for stronger tenant safety laws. She described helping families understand what to do when a loved one goes missing, assisting with media outreach, and pushing law enforcement to take cases seriously.

Miya’s Law focuses on tenant safety, including longer notice before apartment entry, stronger background checks for employees entering units, and better logs of who enters apartments and why. Lewis said versions of the law passed in Florida, Nevada, and Virginia, and that she would like to see similar tenant protections pursued in Georgia.

When asked what that advocacy taught her about legislating, Lewis said it showed her the importance of understanding the process, identifying key players, and being willing to work across party lines. She said sometimes getting something done may require allowing someone else’s name to appear on a bill if that is what helps it pass.

For Lewis, the point is not political credit. The point is impact.

She also spoke about the role of public communication in getting legislation passed. In her advocacy work, Lewis said public awareness helped create pressure and momentum. She argued that when people understand an issue and care about it, they can help move lawmakers to act.

As the conversation moved toward closing, Gabriel asked Lewis how she would turn individual conversations — like the one she had with Republican voters at City Pharmacy — into a long-term way of representing a diverse district.

Lewis said the answer starts with authenticity, openness, curiosity, and a willingness to sit down with people. She said she wants to understand why people believe what they believe, even when they disagree with her. She also emphasized focusing on issues that directly affect District 118 rather than allowing national political fights to distract from local concerns.

For Lewis, the issues facing District 118 are practical: affordability, housing costs, healthcare, property taxes, school safety, law enforcement support, and community trust.

She closed by encouraging voters to learn more about her by visiting her campaign website, following her on social media, or simply searching her name online. She said she welcomes questions, challenges, accountability, and direct conversation from voters.

Lewis made clear that she is “in it to win it,” but also said she is in it to work. She described the opportunity to potentially represent District 118 as an honor and said she wants to earn the support of voters.

As with every Candidate Conversations episode, the goal of this conversation is not to tell listeners who to vote for. The goal is to give voters a clearer picture of the person asking to represent them — their story, their priorities, their leadership style, and their approach to public service.

Jodi Lewis website: https://jodilewisforgeorgia.com

Election Day for the primary is May 19, and as Trey reminded listeners, May matters.

Episode Sponsors

The Appalachia Group Insurance

This episode of The Town Square Podcast is sponsored by The Appalachia Group Insurance. Bobby Stephens and his partner Matt McLane are licensed in Georgia and Tennessee and bring more than 36 years of combined insurance experience. As an independent agency, they are not limited to one carrier, which allows them to shop for coverage that fits the needs of each client.

They offer auto, home, life, commercial, and special event insurance coverage.

Contact: Bobby Stephens

Phone: 770-728-1880

Email: bobby@appgroupins.com

Relevant IT Services

This episode is also sponsored by Relevant IT Services, which partners with businesses and nonprofits to improve productivity, cybersecurity, and technology systems. Relevant IT helps with computers, networks, printers, phone systems, cybersecurity training, remote work solutions, and multi-location technology support.

Listeners can schedule a free assessment and mention The Town Square Podcast for 25% off onboarding.

Phone:470-864-4037

Website:relevantitservices.com

Gaines currently serves in the Georgia House of Representatives, representing District 120, which includes portions of Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, and Oconee counties. He has served in the State House since 2019 and is now running for the open GA-10 congressional seat currently held by Congressman Mike Collins, who is running for U.S. Senate. Gaines’ official campaign biography describes him as an Athens native, an eighth-generation northeast Georgian, and a small-business professional with Carter Engineering. 

The conversation began with a reminder of why the primary matters. Georgia’s 10th Congressional District is a large, heavily Republican district, and for many voters, the primary may play a major role in determining who ultimately represents the district in Congress. Early voting is already underway, and primary election day is May 19.

Gaines talked about the size and scope of the district, noting that it includes 20 counties and has already required significant time on the road. He said that while running for Congress, he has continued serving in the State House because he believes when someone signs up for a job, they should finish the job.

Much of the conversation centered on what drew Gaines into public service and what has kept him there. He pointed to the influence of his grandfather, Superior Court Judge Joseph Gaines, and said he believes politics can be a place where people get meaningful things done when they are in it for the right reasons.

Gaines said his record in the Georgia House includes more than 20 bills he authored that were signed by the governor. He emphasized that these were not symbolic measures, but substantive bills touching issues such as public safety, tax relief, cutting red tape, recovery support, domestic violence, human trafficking, and immigration enforcement.

One of the most personal examples Gaines discussed was the Baker-Coleman Act, legislation that created a cold case unit within the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The bill was inspired by the families of Tara Baker and Rhonda Sue Coleman, both murder victims whose cases remained unsolved for years. Gaines described receiving calls from the governor, first lady, and GBI director after a suspect was identified in Tara Baker’s case. He later watched a Dateline episode about the case alongside Tara’s family.

For Gaines, that legislation represented what public service can accomplish when it moves beyond talking points. He said the law not only helped one family move closer to justice, but also created a structure that could help hundreds of families across Georgia whose loved ones’ cases remain unsolved.

The conversation then moved to party, ideology, and representation. Gaines acknowledged that he has clear conservative convictions and that not every voter will agree with him. But he also said constituent service should not depend on party affiliation. If someone contacts his office needing help, he said, he does not ask whether they are Republican or Democrat. He tries to respond and help.

Gaines described constituent service as one of the most important responsibilities of any elected official. Whether the issue involves state government, a health concern, or even something as unexpected as a cable bill, he said accessibility and responsiveness matter.

When asked why now was the right time to run for Congress, Gaines said he and his wife had considered the timing carefully. After Congressman Mike Collins announced his run for Senate, Gaines began calling people across the district. He said the support felt real, doors opened quickly, and the decision felt right both politically and personally.

He also discussed the early momentum of his campaign, including support from Republican state legislators in the district, sheriffs across the 20 counties, and significant fundraising in the first 24 hours after his announcement.

On fiscal policy, Gaines said Congress could learn from Georgia’s requirement to pass a balanced budget each year. He argued that Washington must address waste, fraud, and abuse while having difficult conversations about long-term debt and spending. He called the national debt a generational burden and a national security issue.

Public safety was another major theme. Gaines discussed his work on illegal immigration enforcement following the killing of Laken Riley in Athens. He said he supported legislation requiring greater cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities when someone in custody is found to be in the country illegally.

Gaines also discussed legislation creating oversight for district attorneys, arguing that prosecutors should be accountable when they refuse to enforce the law or misuse their office. He described Georgia’s Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission as a way for citizens to hold district attorneys accountable.

The episode also covered cashless bail, law enforcement funding, and the “defund the police” movement. Gaines said he took action after Athens-Clarke County considered a proposal that would have significantly cut police funding. He argued that public safety requires consistent support for law enforcement.

On affordability, Gaines said housing costs are one of the most pressing issues facing younger adults and families. He described housing affordability as a supply-and-demand challenge and pointed to property taxes, regulation, and red tape as factors that increase the cost of homeownership.

He highlighted state-level tax relief efforts, including income tax cuts, gas tax savings, property tax relief, and direct rebates. Gaines said government should return taxpayer money when the state has the ability to do so while still balancing the budget.

The conversation then shifted to jobs, small businesses, and economic development. Gaines said his private-sector work at Carter Engineering gives him a daily view of how permitting delays, regulation, and government bureaucracy can slow business growth. As an example, he discussed legislation he helped pass to simplify permitting for food trucks by creating a statewide process instead of requiring operators to repeat the same inspection and fee process in every county.

Agriculture also received significant attention. Gaines called agriculture the number one industry in Georgia and in the 10th District. He framed food production as a national security issue, arguing that the United States must maintain its own food supply rather than becoming dependent on other countries.

He also discussed the impact of weather events, including Hurricane Helene and recent wildfires, on Georgia farmers. Gaines said the state stepped in with more than a billion dollars to help farmers recover when federal aid was slow to arrive.

As the discussion moved toward how Gaines would represent such a large district, he said the key is showing up. The 10th District includes 20 counties, and Gaines said he has visited all of them multiple times during the campaign. He said that if elected, he would continue visiting every county regularly and would remain accessible to constituents.

The episode also addressed endorsements, including President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Gaines. Gaines described the call from Trump as meaningful and said the former president emphasized the importance of Georgia and the importance of the race. Gaines also encouraged undecided voters to watch the Atlanta Press Club debate featuring the candidates in the race.

Near the end of the episode, Trey described the kind of representative he wants: someone with “the tenacity of a lion, but the decorum of a statesman.” Gaines responded by pointing again to his legislative record, saying he believes he has shown that he can fight for conservative policy while also doing the work required to pass legislation.

Gabriel closed the interview with the “magic bullhorn” question, asking Gaines what one message he would want everyone in the town square to hear. Gaines said many people in politics like to talk, but he wants to get things done. He pointed back to his original State House campaign slogan: “Gaines gets it done.”

For voters in Georgia’s 10th Congressional District, this episode offers a direct look at Houston Gaines’ background, record, priorities, and approach to public service as the May 19 primary approaches.

Houston Gaines Contact Information

Website: HoustonGaines.com

Email: info@HoustonGaines.com

Facebook: Houston Gaines

X/Twitter: @HoustonGaines

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District 114 includes all of Morgan County, portions of Newton County, and part of Walton County, including communities such as Mansfield, Newborn, Social Circle, and areas near Good Hope. As the district continues to experience growth, development pressure, tax concerns, and shifting political boundaries, this race carries significance for voters across several communities.

McNeal is running in the Republican primary for the open House seat against Brett Mauldin, who has also appeared on The Town Square Podcast as part of the Candidate Conversations series. As with every episode in this series, the goal is not to endorse a candidate, but to give voters direct access to the people asking to represent them.

For McNeal, that story begins long before politics.

From Gordon to Milledgeville

Wendell McNeal was born in Gordon, Georgia, a small town south of Milledgeville. He described growing up in a 975-square-foot house — what people today might call a tiny home — before tragedy changed the course of his childhood.

When McNeal was eight years old, his parents were involved in a car accident. His father did not survive, and his mother was left handicapped. After that, the family moved to Milledgeville, which is why many of his bios list Milledgeville as his hometown.

But McNeal was quick to clarify the full story.

He came from Gordon. He carried lessons from Gordon. And those early life experiences helped shape his worldview.

Throughout the conversation, McNeal returned to themes of resilience, common sense, hard work, and learning how to figure things out when no one hands you a blueprint.

Learning the Legislative Process

Before building his business career, McNeal spent time working around state politics. After moving to Atlanta to work for a candidate running for statewide office, he was later connected to an opportunity with the Georgia House of Representatives.

That job placed him with the House Judiciary Committee.

McNeal said he told the committee chairman that he was not a lawyer. The chairman already knew — and apparently viewed that as part of what made him interesting for the role.

That experience gave McNeal an early understanding of how legislation works, how laws are developed, and how important it is to understand the process before trying to change it.

He said one of the most important lessons he learned is that disagreement does not have to become hostility.

If someone disagrees, McNeal said, his response is simple: tell me why.

That approach — asking people to explain their position rather than dismissing them — became one of the recurring themes of the conversation.

Building a Business From Scratch

McNeal eventually decided he wanted to go into business for himself.

He did not inherit a family business. He did not come from a built-in business structure. He simply decided to start.

With a background in electronics, McNeal opened a Curtis Mathis store in Covington’s Newton Plaza. Many longtime Newton County residents may remember the store, especially from the days when renting a VCR was still part of normal life.

Eventually, McNeal moved the business to a building on Highway 278 and expanded into Conyers. Over time, he grew the business to four stores and approximately 50 employees.

That experience, he said, taught him how to read financial statements, manage operations, handle lenders, understand cash flow, and make decisions based on facts.

McNeal talked about being required to prepare individual financial statements for each location, then a separate financial statement for the home office, then consolidated financial statements for the company as a whole.

He described it as a crash course in business discipline.

If financials were not ready by the fifth of the month, he said, the credit line could be cut.

That kind of pressure taught him how to manage carefully, plan ahead, and avoid making decisions without understanding the numbers.

Property Taxes and the State Budget

When asked what he believes is one of the most important issues facing District 114, McNeal quickly pointed to property taxes.

He said many residents have seen property taxes double or even triple, especially as home values have increased and assessments compare properties against nearby renovated homes.

McNeal specifically raised the issue of homestead exemptions. He noted that Morgan County’s homestead exemption is $2,000, while Newton County’s is $4,000, and questioned why those numbers have not been significantly updated over time.

But he also cautioned that tax policy cannot be handled casually.

Change one part of the system, he said, and it can affect something else.

For McNeal, tax relief must be approached carefully so it does not harm school systems, public employees, or essential services.

He described attending legislative committee meetings during the summer and listening to presentations on various revenue options, including cigarette taxes and hotel-motel taxes. Some of those presentations lasted hours, but McNeal said his business background made him interested in the numbers.

His point was not simply that taxes are too high.

His point was that Georgia needs people in the legislature who can understand the numbers, examine the full picture, and think through unintended consequences.

Public Education and Teacher Retention

One of the strongest portions of the conversation centered on public education.

McNeal said he does not want tax reform to harm public schools. He specifically raised concerns about teacher retention and asked why more state funding is not reaching classrooms and teachers.

He noted that a large portion of Georgia’s state budget goes toward education and said that raises an important question: if the state is spending that much on education, how can lawmakers better support teachers in Newton, Morgan, and Walton counties?

Trey added that Georgia’s public school funding formula, the QBE-Quality Basic Education formula, dates back to 1985 and that schools today face far more complex demands than they did decades ago, including technology, safety, security, special education, and expanded student needs.

McNeal agreed that public education should not be hurt and that experienced teachers should not be lost because of funding pressures.

For him, the issue comes back to distribution.

Like a household or business budget, he said, the state must decide what matters most and how to spend accordingly.

Senior Tax Relief and Protecting Homeowners

McNeal also spoke about the importance of protecting older homeowners and widows who may be struggling to stay in their homes.

He drew a clear distinction between residential tax relief and tax benefits for commercial property owners, rental property owners, or apartment complexes.

As someone who owns rental property himself, McNeal said he does not believe changes in tax structure should be designed primarily to benefit commercial or rental property owners. In his view, the priority should be homeowners — especially seniors and widows who may be forced to choose between basic needs and property taxes.

He said other counties have found ways to reduce or eliminate certain taxes for residents at a certain age, and he believes District 114 should study those models to see what might work locally.

McNeal said he may not always be the smartest person in the room, but he believes in finding people who understand the issue and asking them how they made it work.

A Vested Interest in the Community

Although McNeal lives in Morgan County, he emphasized that he has a vested interest across the district, including Newton County.

He owns rental property in Newton County and has employees who live in the district, including one in Mansfield. For McNeal, that means the decisions made in District 114 affect him personally, professionally, and financially.

He said people sometimes claim to have a vested interest in a community, but in his case, he believes his investments and relationships make that statement real.

Presidential Elector and Political Involvement

One of the more unique parts of the conversation came when McNeal shared that he served as a presidential elector in Georgia.

He described going through the formal process at the Capitol, meeting in the Senate chamber, and signing legal documents to authenticate the popular vote for president and vice president.

McNeal said the process gave him a deeper appreciation for the Electoral College and the structure of American government.

He also shared stories about being invited to Mar-a-Lago and attending events where he met national political figures. But even in those settings, McNeal said what stood out most was the reminder that people are still people.

His larger point was that relationships matter, and that sometimes being connected to people in government allows you to help someone else.

He gave an example of helping connect a municipality with someone in federal government regarding a bond issue and another example of helping someone who had been working through an SBA loan.

McNeal said he does not need much for himself, but he enjoys using relationships to help others.

Data Centers, Rivian, and Responsible Growth

Trey also asked McNeal about economic development, data centers, and the balance between growth and quality of life.

McNeal said he supports good, clean industry and considers himself pro-business. However, he expressed concern about the number of data centers being proposed in Newton County and surrounding areas.

His concerns center on water usage, energy demands, and potential impacts on quality of life.

He said citizens must come first, especially during times of drought or infrastructure pressure.

On Rivian, McNeal said he believes the process was handled poorly. His concern was not simply about economic development itself, but about whether citizens had enough opportunity to understand the project, ask questions, and provide input.

He said when major zoning or development decisions happen, citizens are usually notified through signs, newspapers, and public hearings. In his view, a project of Rivian’s scale should involve meaningful public input.

McNeal said he feels for residents in the Rutledge area who moved there for a certain way of life.

For him, the challenge is balancing economic development with the needs and concerns of the people already living in the community.

“Workhorse, Not Show Horse”

Near the end of the episode, McNeal was asked why voters should choose him.

His answer was simple:

He believes he is a workhorse, not a show horse.

McNeal said some people in politics are gifted speakers, but voters should look beyond speeches and examine what a candidate has actually done.

He pointed to his business background, his community investments, his relationships, his concern for quality of life, and his desire to work for the people of the district.

He said elected officials must remember who they work for.

Not the system.

Not the title.

The people.

Candidate Contact Information

To learn more about Wendell McNeal’s campaign:

Website: www.wendellmcneal.com

Phone: 706-752-7400

McNeal encouraged voters to reach out, ask questions, request campaign signs, and talk with him directly about the issues affecting their communities.

Election Reminder

Early voting is underway for the May 19 primary.

Voters are encouraged to confirm their district, polling location, and election information before casting a ballot.

Visit: www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/vote

May matters.

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For longtime listeners, Nytro may sound familiar. He previously appeared on the podcast for a conversation about the state of the church in Newton County, alongside Pastor Justin Adams. This time, he returns in a very different role: as a candidate asking District 4 voters to consider his vision for county leadership.

Smith describes himself as a lifelong Newton County resident, raised in the Green Acres and Nelson Heights communities. He is a graduate of Eastside High School and the Newton College and Career Academy, a product of Newton County Schools, and an advocate for the public school system that helped shape him.

He also points to the Washington Street Community Center as a major influence in his life, crediting its leadership and programming with showing him what meaningful community investment can look like.

Today, Smith serves in multiple community roles. He is an ordained minister at James Paschal Baptist Church, a community lay coach in Newton County Schools, and has worked in trades including pipefitting, plumbing, and electrical work.

Throughout the conversation, Smith returns often to one central theme: Newton County must preserve what makes it special while also preparing for what is coming next.

A Young Candidate With a Local Foundation

Smith does not avoid the conversation around his age. In fact, he speaks directly to it.

At the time of the election, he will meet the age requirement to serve, and he argues that youth should not be viewed as a weakness. Instead, he sees it as part of what allows him to connect with younger residents who are often disconnected from local politics.

He shares stories of knocking on doors and meeting young voters who were registered but did not even realize it. To Smith, that is not apathy as much as a lack of information and engagement.

He says candidates are often strategic organizers during campaign season — knocking doors, sending mailers, making calls — but he believes that same energy should continue after someone is elected.

For Smith, public service is not only about voting on agenda items. It is also about educating citizens, explaining how government works, and helping people see where their tax dollars go.

“Preserving Newton. Preparing for the Future.”

Smith’s campaign theme is “Preserving Newton. Preparing for the Future.”

When asked what he wants to preserve, Smith talks about the charm, identity, and pride of Newton County. He wants the county to remain a place with roots, relationships, and a sense of belonging — not simply become another extension of Atlanta.

But he also believes preservation alone is not enough.

Smith argues that Newton County must plan for future growth, expand tourism, strengthen workforce development, and create more local opportunities so young people do not feel forced to leave in order to find meaningful work.

He talks about the importance of retention — creating a county where graduates can go to college, technical school, or directly into the trades, and still see a future for themselves right here at home.

Growth, Development, and Economic Opportunity

Growth is one of the major themes in the conversation.

Smith does not describe growth itself as bad. Instead, he says the issue is whether growth is balanced, planned, and beneficial to residents.

He speaks specifically about the need for economic development that strengthens the tax base without sacrificing quality of life. He also talks about District 4 as a largely residential district, but one that still has opportunities for thoughtful commercial development.

Smith mentions Porterdale and the Oak District as examples of areas with potential. He sees Porterdale, especially, as a place where tourism, recreation, food, and riverfront activity could help create a stronger local economy.

Rather than viewing Newton County’s cities and communities as separate pieces, Smith argues for a more unified approach. He wants more collaboration between the county, municipalities, the school system, and economic development leaders.

Intergovernmental Collaboration

One idea Smith discusses is the possibility of stronger intergovernmental cooperation.

He talks about creating more structured conversations between different local entities so leaders can better understand how one decision affects another part of the community.

For example, if the county approves development, how does that affect schools? Roads? Water? Municipalities? Workforce needs?

Smith says he is not trying to replace or interfere with the Industrial Development Authority, but he does want more conversation and cohesiveness between the various groups shaping Newton County’s future.

His goal is not simply to get a “piece of the pie,” but to help the county “bake the pie together” so everyone can benefit.

Data Centers and Infrastructure

The conversation also touches on data centers, a major issue in Newton County.

Smith brings a unique perspective because he has worked on data center construction himself, including pipefitting work connected to cooling systems.

He acknowledges that data centers can provide construction-related jobs and serve a purpose in a modern digital economy. At the same time, he raises questions about post-construction employment, water usage, infrastructure needs, and whether these projects create enough long-term local benefit.

His position is not simply anti-development. Instead, he argues that Newton County should think carefully about where these projects go, what resources they require, and how companies can contribute to the infrastructure they depend on.

Taxes, Budgeting, and Accountability

Property taxes are another major theme.

Smith says conversations about taxes often become emotional because people do not always see or understand where their money is going. He believes one responsibility of local leaders is to explain budgets, tax digest, millage rates, sales tax, and other revenue sources in plain language.

He repeatedly returns to the word accountability.

For Smith, tax relief begins with the budget. He says county departments should be held accountable to the budgets they are given, and leaders should examine where money is being spent, what is essential, what produces a community return, and what may no longer be necessary.

He also discusses the idea of selling or repurposing unused county assets, such as old vehicles or equipment, as one small way to create savings and reduce unnecessary maintenance costs.

Smith acknowledges that property tax relief is complicated. He supports the idea of helping seniors and others who may be struggling, but he also says any solution must be realistic and fair to the broader community.

Housing and Community Stability

Smith also connects property taxes to housing.

He notes that even in rental-heavy communities, property taxes still matter because someone owns those homes or properties, and those costs can affect renters.

He raises concerns about companies or organizations that own multiple properties and whether they are paying a fair share. He also talks about the need to protect long-time homeowners, including seniors who have lived in their homes for decades.

For Smith, housing affordability is connected to economic development, wages, zoning, and long-term community planning.

A “Visionary Mentor” Mindset

One of the most distinctive parts of Smith’s campaign language is his phrase “Visionary Mentor.”

He explains that being visionary means helping people imagine what is possible. He wants to paint a picture of what Newton County could become — better parks, stronger workforce opportunities, better access to food, stronger youth programming, and more strategic investment.

The mentor side, he says, comes from coaching.

Smith sees leadership as helping people grow, correcting without tearing down, and building confidence in others. He says leaders should educate, communicate, and bring people along rather than simply make decisions behind closed doors.

He also says elected officials should be willing to admit mistakes.

For Smith, humility matters in public service. He says citizens deserve leaders who can acknowledge when they got something wrong and commit to doing better.

The Biggest Challenge Facing Newton County

When asked about the biggest challenge facing Newton County, Smith says the county must build the foundation needed to become what residents want it to be.

For him, that foundation is economic development.

He says Newton County must raise median household income, attract businesses that fit the community, and avoid giving too much away in development deals without receiving real benefits in return.

He points to companies that invest back into the community as examples of what good corporate citizenship can look like. In his view, businesses that come to Newton County should be active participants in the community, not just names on a development list.

A Commitment to Service

Smith closes the conversation by saying that if he is not elected, he will continue doing what he has already been doing: serving the community.

He talks about coaching not for the money, but for the reward of seeing students grow. He points to the growth of the wrestling program he helped build as an example of what happens when people believe in a vision.

His message to voters is direct:

“Don’t just hope for change. Vote for change.”

Candidate Contact Information

To learn more about Nytravious “Nytro” Smith’s campaign for Newton County Board of Commissioners District 4:

Website: www.smith4for.com

Facebook: Nytravious Smith for District 4

Email: nytravioussmithfordistrict4@gmail.com

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As always, the goal of The Town Square Podcast is not to create uniformity, but to create understanding. In that spirit, this episode gives Ryan Millsap room to tell his story, explain his worldview, and make his case directly to the people of District 10.

What follows is a candidate who is anything but conventional.

A Candidate with an Unusual Backstory

At first glance, some listeners may assume they know who Ryan Millsap is based on campaign rhetoric, short clips online, or the forceful style he brings to a room. But this conversation quickly revealed a far more layered personal story.

Millsap was born in southern Missouri, where his father’s family had deep roots going back generations. His mother grew up on a cattle ranch in northern Nebraska, and that upbringing — wide open land, hard work, and a culture of toughness and independence — clearly shaped the values Millsap still talks about today.

His father was a recon Marine in Vietnam, a Purple Heart recipient and Bronze Star honoree who returned home carrying the scars of war, including PTSD. Millsap described growing up in a home shaped by both discipline and intensity, with a tom-boy mother who loved college football and a family environment that felt more like a locker room than a quiet suburban home.

The family later moved to Phoenix, Arizona, and then to central California, where Millsap says he spent his teenage years in a deeply conservative farming community. That blend of Midwestern roots, Southwestern grit, and West Coast business exposure became an unusual but formative mix.

More Depth Than Expected

One of the most surprising turns in the episode was hearing how academically layered Millsap’s background really is.

He attended Biola University, where he studied philosophy, and later studied at Oxford, focusing on issues related to time, eternity, and divine omniscience. He also played American football at Oxford and rowed there — experiences that Trey clearly did not expect to come up in what he assumed would be a more conventional campaign interview.

After Oxford, Millsap pursued graduate studies at USC in real estate development. From there, he began doing real estate deals at a young age and eventually built a substantial career in apartment acquisitions, development strategy, and complex deal-making.

For several years, he even taught real estate at USC as a professor, developing course material designed to teach students what real-world entrepreneurship actually looks like. That detail added another layer to Millsap’s profile: not just businessman, but teacher and thinker as well.

Building Wealth, Business, and Opportunity

Millsap described himself repeatedly as an entrepreneur — and in the conversation, that seems to be the identity he values most.

He explained how he partnered with investors after the 2008 financial collapse to acquire thousands of apartment units across the South at a time when the economy was in chaos. He said he saw that moment as one of the greatest buying opportunities of a generation and used it to build a massive real estate portfolio in Atlanta and surrounding Southern cities.

Eventually, that business success brought him to Georgia full time. He moved here in 2014, drawn by both the economics of the region and the opportunities he saw in a growing Southern market.

Then came one of the more unexpected chapters of his story: film studios.

After recognizing what he believed was an overlooked real estate opportunity in Georgia’s booming movie industry, Millsap built an 850,000-square-foot movie studio inside the perimeter of Atlanta. He later leased that studio to major entertainment companies including Disney, Sony, Warner Brothers, HBO, and Netflix. Films such as Jungle Cruise,Jumanji, Venom, Godzilla, andnTomorrow War were among the projects made on the property.

It was a reminder that Millsap did not enter politics from political circles, legislative offices, or advocacy groups. He came from business, development, and entrepreneurship.

Why Politics? Why Now?

That is where the conversation took a more urgent turn.

Millsap said plainly that he never expected to run for office. In fact, he claimed he had little real interest in politics until a long-running conflict involving land he owned in DeKalb County changed the course of his life.

He recounted a years-long land swap deal with DeKalb County that eventually left him in possession of property next to the area now associated with Atlanta’s police training center, often referred to by critics as “Cop City.” According to Millsap, activists later moved onto his property, used it as a staging ground, and occupied the land for an extended period while local authorities failed to act.

He described the ordeal as a five-year war with Antifa, involving litigation, vandalism, threats, public attacks, and government inaction. Whether listeners agree with every part of his interpretation or not, there was no mistaking the intensity with which he told the story. In Millsap’s telling, this experience exposed what he sees as the weakness of government institutions, the danger of ideological extremism, and the unwillingness of career politicians to confront the deeper problems facing the country.

That, he says, is what pulled him into the race.

An Outsider’s Case for Congress

Throughout the interview, Millsap returned again and again to the same core idea: America needs fewer career politicians and more proven outsiders.

He argued that many people in Washington are detached from real American life and have never built anything, risked anything, or had to navigate the pressures of the private sector. In contrast, he sees his own story — raising a family, building businesses, hiring people, managing risk, and absorbing loss — as the kind of preparation voters should value.

He said politics has become a place where the wrong people accumulate power, and he wants to challenge that culture by bringing entrepreneurial thinking into public office.

Whether one agrees with his tone or not, Millsap was clear about how he views the race: not as a gradual climb into political life, but as a disruption of a system he believes is already broken.

The Constitution, Americanism, and Representation

Millsap spoke often and passionately about the Constitution, which he described not just as a legal framework, but as a moral document and the bedrock of American life.

He argued that many Americans misunderstand the country as a pure democracy when, in his view, the United States was intentionally founded as a constitutional republic designed to protect liberty against mob rule. He repeatedly framed his worldview around “Americanism,” which for him means individual liberty, constitutional limits, strong local communities, and a resistance to collectivist thinking.

That constitutional lens shaped nearly every policy topic discussed in the interview. It was central to how he talked about free speech, the Second Amendment, federal overreach, taxation, and civic education.

In his words, even representing a large and diverse district means first representing the Constitution itself.

His Vision for Georgia’s 10th District

District 10 is a massive congressional territory, covering all or parts of numerous counties across east and central Georgia, including Newton County. Millsap repeatedly emphasized that the district should be more organized, more connected, and more self-aware.

He argued that many voters do not even realize they live in the 10th District, let alone understand what shared values connect the region. As congressman, he said he would want to provide not just a vote in Washington, but visible, local leadership back home — helping residents think of themselves as part of a distinctly American, strongly constitutional district.

It was one of the more interesting themes in the episode: Millsap seems to view the office not only as legislative representation, but as a platform for cultural and civic organizing across the district.

Economy and the “Flywheel of Fraud”

Another major theme of the episode was what Millsap called the “flywheel of fraud.”

He argued that federal programs, bureaucracy, illegal immigration, and government-aligned organizations often form self-reinforcing systems that expand political power while wasting taxpayer money. In his view, many of the country’s financial struggles stem not just from bad policy, but from entrenched networks of public spending, political protection, and institutional corruption.

He linked that critique to his support for efforts like DOGE and his admiration for Elon Musk’s willingness to challenge bloated systems. Millsap said he wants to bring a similar entrepreneurial and confrontational energy to Congress, with the goal of shutting down sources of waste and redirecting money back into what he described as the real economy.

His language was often sharp, but the principle was consistent: government should be smaller, more accountable, and far less dependent on permanent bureaucratic structures.

A Strongly Local View of Charity and Community

One of the more unexpected and thoughtful turns in the episode came during a discussion about poverty, charity, and safety-net programs.

Despite his hard criticism of federal welfare structures, Millsap did not argue for indifference to the poor. Instead, he made the case that care works best locally — through churches, families, and communities that actually know the people they are helping.

He contrasted impersonal federal systems with relational, accountable support systems rooted in neighborhoods and congregations. His argument was not that suffering should be ignored, but that help is most transformative when it is personal, communal, and tied to accountability rather than bureaucracy.

That section of the interview revealed something that came up several times: beneath all the forceful rhetoric, Millsap sees many national problems as the result of local structures being hollowed out or replaced.

Faith, Church History, and Surprise Depth

Near the end of the conversation, another side of Millsap emerged.

He spoke openly about his Christian faith, his transition from evangelical Protestantism into Greek Orthodoxy, and his deep interest in church history and theology. He referenced the Nicene Creed, the early councils of the church, and the importance of preserving mystery rather than over-systematizing every theological idea.

It was, frankly, not the direction the hosts expected the conversation to go — and they said as much. But it added a level of depth that likely would not be obvious to many listeners based only on campaign appearances or short-form media clips.

It also helped explain why Millsap so often speaks in terms not only of politics, but of morality, order, inheritance, and foundations.

Final Impressions

Ryan Millsap is not running as a polished institutional candidate. He is running as a forceful outsider with a businessman’s résumé, a storyteller’s instincts, a fighter’s tone, and a deep conviction that the country is in a moment of real danger and real opportunity.

Listeners will have their own reactions to his style, his language, and his policy framework. Some will find his urgency compelling. Others may find it intense. But either way, this episode delivers exactly what the Candidate Conversations series is supposed to provide: a long-form, substantive opportunity for voters to hear directly from a candidate in his own words.

For the people of Georgia’s 10th District, this conversation offers a much fuller introduction to Ryan Millsap than a debate clip, social media reel, or campaign mailer ever could.

And in a season where voters are being asked to make important decisions, that kind of deeper understanding is exactly the point.

Links Discussed

Ryan Millsap Campaign Website:

ryanmillsapforcongress.com

Ryan Millsap Social Media:

Millsap4America

Episode Sponsors

All Air

When it comes to heating, cooling, and healthy air in Covington and the greater Atlanta area, All Air is a trusted local name known for doing things the right way. From repair and maintenance to full HVAC system installation, their team provides reliable, professional service with free replacement estimates, free second opinions, flexible financing options, and special discounts for veterans and senior citizens. Mention The Town Square Podcast for $25 off your next repair service.

Contact All Air:

Phone: 770-761-9914

Website: allairservices.com

Luther Rice College & Seminary

Luther Rice College & Seminary is a fully online, biblically grounded, accredited institution designed to help students pursue their calling from a Christian worldview. Whether you are a high school student seeking dual enrollment, an adult learner deepening your biblical knowledge, or a working professional looking to grow in leadership and purpose, Luther Rice offers affordable and accessible options ranging from certificates to doctoral-level study.

Contact Luther Rice College & Seminary:

Website: lutherrice.edu

That was this one.

In Episode 84 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey welcomed Richard Wright, Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Georgia, into the studio for a conversation that was funny, thoughtful, policy-heavy, personal, and refreshingly unpolished in the best possible way. Wright’s campaign describes him as a financial professional and community-minded leader running to bring “common sense leadership” to Georgia. By the end of the episode, listeners got a strong sense of what that means in his own words. 

This episode is part of The Town Square Podcast’s ongoing Candidate Conversations series — a public-service effort to help voters hear directly from candidates in a long-form, less combative setting. Rather than sound bites, gotchas, or rehearsed talking points, the format invites candidates to explain who they are, what shaped them, and how they think.

Richard Wright did exactly that.

A statewide race with a very personal story

The office of lieutenant governor is a big one in Georgia. The position presides over the State Senate and helps shape the flow of legislation in a meaningful way. As Trey noted early in the episode, this is one of those offices that most citizens know is important, but many couldn’t fully describe day to day. Wright’s candidacy is for a statewide seat, and that alone made this conversation significant for your audience in Newton County, Rockdale, DeKalb, Jasper, Morgan, and beyond. Georgia voters will choose their next lieutenant governor in the 2026 cycle, with the primary scheduled for May 19, 2026. 

But Wright didn’t begin by trying to impress listeners with credentials.

He began with a story.

And it is a story.

He told Trey that he moved to Atlanta from North Carolina in 1997 with no real career plan beyond trying to make it in music. He came to the city hoping to become a rapper and, if that failed, maybe walk on at Georgia Tech. It already sounds like an unusual opening chapter for someone now running for lieutenant governor, but the story got even more memorable as Wright explained how he injured his ankle playing basketball just before moving, arriving in Atlanta not as a rising star, but as what Trey jokingly called “the limping rapper.”

The humor worked because Wright embraced it. He laughed at himself, talked about his old rap names, and let listeners hear the messiness of the journey before the success.

That matters.

In a political environment where too many candidates sound polished to the point of lifelessness, Wright came across as someone who actually remembers where he came from.

From dropped out student to CPA

One of the strongest parts of the episode was hearing the arc of Wright’s educational story. He openly said he dropped out of high school. He also described the jobs he worked, the instability of those early years, and the influence of his mother, whose prayers and persistence clearly helped redirect his life. Eventually, he went to college, earned an undergraduate degree, later earned an MBA, became a CPA, and also attended Georgetown Law School, all details that line up with how his campaign presents him publicly as an experienced financial professional rather than a career politician. 

And that’s one of the central contrasts he seems to want voters to notice.

Richard Wright is not running on the claim that he has spent years climbing a partisan political ladder. He is running on the idea that his life experience, financial background, and ability to talk to ordinary people give him a different kind of credibility.

That theme surfaced again and again throughout the episode.

He framed his CPA background not merely as a résumé line but as preparation for governing. He talked about budgets, tax structures, incentives, and return on investment in a way that felt natural. Whether listeners agreed with every proposal or not, there was no mistaking that this is a candidate who enjoys thinking through how money moves and how policy affects real people.

A “moderate Democrat” in the messy middle

At several points, Trey and Wright locked in on one of the themes that has become central to both The Town Square Podcast and this campaign: the political middle.

Wright describes himself as a moderate Democrat. His website makes the same case — that Georgia needs leadership centered on “common-sense solutions,” collaboration, and helping working families rather than feeding the loudest extremes. 

That opened the door to one of the best stretches of the interview.

Trey, who often speaks from that “messy middle” perspective himself, noted that many people on both the left and the right would hear the phrase “moderate Democrat” and wonder if such a thing even exists anymore. Wright leaned into that tension. He argued that the far right and far left often dominate attention, fundraising, and headlines, but that most Georgians are more practical than ideological. In his framing, the loudest people may get the microphones, but they do not necessarily represent the majority of people trying to raise families, pay bills, and live responsibly.

That idea clearly resonated with the tone of the show.

Wright repeatedly emphasized that people want effective schools, reasonable taxes, economic opportunity, and practical leadership. He argued that the middle is not weak or confused; it is just underrepresented and often drowned out.

That is exactly the kind of conversation Candidate Conversations was built to host.

Civility as a governing strategy

One of Wright’s clearest arguments for why he should be the Democratic nominee centered on civility.

Georgia’s lieutenant governor presides over the State Senate. In the current political environment, that means leading in a chamber where partisan tension is real and often public. Wright acknowledged the challenge directly. He said a Democrat walking into a Republican-controlled Senate must have emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the ability to build consensus.

He argued that his experience as an outsider to the legislature could actually be an advantage. In his telling, existing relationships between some candidates and current lawmakers may already be damaged or hardened by partisan history. He suggested that he could enter the chamber with a different tone — not surrendering principles, but also not defining success as constant combat.

That doesn’t mean he presented himself as soft.

It means he presented himself as strategic.

He said he would always listen, even if he did not always agree. He described himself as someone willing to work with Republicans when the policy helped people and willing to push back when it didn’t. In a race where many candidates may define themselves by how fiercely they fight, Wright is trying to distinguish himself by how effectively he can govern.

Healthcare, Medicaid, and rural Georgia

If there was one policy area Wright kept circling back to, it was healthcare.

He believes Georgia must do more, especially on Medicaid expansion, rural hospital support, and healthcare access for working families. His campaign platform likewise includes healthcare-related priorities and positions expanding Medicaid as part of helping Georgia’s economy and families. 

In the interview, Wright tried to break the issue down in practical terms. He talked about how reimbursement delays can hurt hospitals and providers, especially in rural communities where cash flow is already tight. He argued that state government should think more creatively and proactively about keeping rural hospitals open, not simply because healthcare is morally important, but because healthy communities are also economically viable communities.

That was one of his recurring strengths in the conversation: he linked issues together.

For Wright, healthcare is not just about compassion. It is also about workforce development, business recruitment, rural stability, and long-term economic growth. If a region has poor healthcare access, employers notice. Families notice. Doctors notice. Young professionals notice.

In his view, Georgia cannot claim to be one of the best states for business while underperforming on the health side of the equation.

He also spoke at length about how existing income thresholds and program structures can discourage marriage or leave working families stuck in a gap where they earn too much for one program but not enough to comfortably afford the alternatives. That part of the conversation was especially detailed and reflected the kind of numeric thinking Trey kept drawing out of him.

Rural hospitals and the “Georgia Jobs Act” idea

Wright also introduced a broader idea he called a Georgia Jobs Act, tying job creation and healthcare access together. He argued that helping hospitals stay open, especially in rural areas, is essential not only for current residents but also for future economic recruitment.

Again, he connected the dots:

If rural hospitals close, communities become less attractive for new business.

If communities are less attractive for new business, population and investment lag.

If population and investment lag, the tax base stays weak.

If the tax base stays weak, public services struggle.

Whether one sees that as a sweeping vision or an ambitious political stretch, it was undeniably a coherent one.

He wants voters to see public policy not as disconnected line items, but as an ecosystem.

Housing affordability and private equity

Another standout moment in the episode came when Trey asked Wright about affordability and housing.

Rather than stay at the surface level, Wright launched into a detailed explanation of private equity, carried interest, tax incentives, and how large-scale institutional ownership can reshape the housing market. He argued that private equity has become a major factor in housing affordability, especially in metro Atlanta and surrounding communities, by concentrating ownership and driving up prices.

For listeners who may not have expected a lieutenant governor candidate to spend that much time explaining tax treatment and investment mechanics, it was one of the more revealing parts of the interview. Wright clearly wanted to show that he has done the homework and understands the forces behind the issue, not just the slogans around it.

Trey played that segment well, helping translate and slow down the complexity for everyday listeners.

And that is probably one of the strongest values of this episode overall: it did not oversimplify Wright, but it did help humanize and interpret him.

Transportation and “One Georgia”

At one point the conversation turned toward transportation, and Wright laid out one of his most ambitious ideas of the interview: a more connected Georgia through expanded transit, including the possibility of heavier rail connections across major corridors.

He framed this as part of a “One Georgia” mindset — not just metro Atlanta versus everyone else, not urban versus rural, but a more connected state. He tied transportation to job creation, insurance costs, development, and regional accessibility.

This was not presented as a simple or immediate promise. It was more aspirational than near-term. But it fit a broader theme in Wright’s campaign: he wants to think beyond partisan talking points and ask what Georgia could become if leaders pursued long-range, integrated planning.

Listeners may differ on whether such projects are realistic, affordable, or politically achievable. But the interview gave them enough of Wright’s reasoning to evaluate the vision for themselves.

Farmers, rural voters, and a broader Democratic challenge

One of the most politically interesting parts of the episode came when Wright talked about farmers and rural voters.

He argued that Democrats often fail not simply because rural Georgians reject them on principle, but because too many Democratic candidates do not know enough about rural pain points to speak credibly to them. He mentioned farming, overhead, tariffs, labor concerns, and local economics as examples of issues that deserve more direct attention.

This was one of the more candid moments in the interview because Wright was not just criticizing Republicans. He was criticizing his own party’s habits too.

That theme came up multiple times: Democrats, in his view, must stop relying only on outrage, cultural conflict, or anti-Republican energy and start offering grounded, persuasive, useful ideas to people who may never have voted for them before.

That’s a hard message to deliver in a primary. But it also may be what makes his candidacy distinct.

A candidate who wants to explain, not inflame

If there is one sentence that might summarize Richard Wright’s interview style, it could be this:

He wants to explain things.

Not merely condemn, not merely campaign, not merely provoke.

Explain.

That does not mean he lacks sharp opinions. He clearly has them. But throughout the episode he kept returning to the idea that public life gets worse when leaders emotionalize people without educating them. He argued that fear is often easier to use than reason, but that fear rarely produces durable solutions.

That was one of the deeper philosophical threads of the conversation.

He wants voters to know what the lieutenant governor actually does. He wants them to understand what tax credits are, how policy tradeoffs work, why cash flow matters to doctors and hospitals, and why structural issues cannot be solved by slogans.

In other words, he wants politics to feel a little more grown up.

For The Town Square Podcast, that is fertile ground.

Final thoughts

Episode 84 is one of the more distinctive entries in the Candidate Conversations series so far because Richard Wright does not sound like a traditional candidate. He sounds at times like a teacher, at times like a tax advisor, at times like a preacher’s son with a testimony, and at times like a guy who still can’t quite believe his own life story.

That mix made for a compelling conversation.

Listeners will come away with a clear sense that Wright sees himself as a bridge candidate: someone trying to occupy the center, lower the temperature, and make the case that Georgia politics does not have to be held hostage by the loudest factions.

Whether that message breaks through in a statewide race remains to be seen. But as a podcast guest, he gave your audience something worthwhile — substance, story, humor, and a vision that is different enough to be memorable.

And in a season full of campaign scripts and partisan noise, memorable counts.

Links Discussed

Richard Wright for Georgia 2026

Wright’s official campaign website: wrightforgeorgia2026.com. The site includes his biography, platform, campaign updates, and donation page. His campaign message emphasizes common-sense leadership, collaboration, and opportunity for Georgians. 

Episode Sponsors

All Air

When it comes to heating, cooling, and healthy air in Covington and the greater Atlanta area, All Air is a trusted local name. They provide repairs, maintenance, and full system installations, and they’re known for walking customers through their options with professionalism and care. They offer free estimates on replacements, free second opinions, flexible financing, and 10% off for military, veterans, and senior citizens. Mention this podcast for $25 off your next repair service.

Phone: 770-761-9914

Website: allairservices.com

SCB Construction Group

SCB Construction Group is a locally owned, community-driven commercial contractor serving projects across Georgia and beyond. An Engineering News-Record Top 100 Southeast contractor and repeated Best of Newton winner, SCB specializes in turnkey design-build, design-bid, and commercial contracting services for manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, churches, sports complexes, office spaces, and retail projects. Trey also notes Eastridge partnered with SCB on a 12,000-square-foot building project now known as Life Now Church.

Website: SCBCG.com

For many in the community, Alan Fowler is already a familiar face. After all, he spent 26 years at Eastside High School, where he served as band director and helped shape generations of students. But this conversation goes much deeper than résumé lines or campaign language. It offers a look at the heart of a longtime educator, husband, father, music leader, and community member who believes deeply in public schools and the people they serve.

The episode begins with Fowler sharing the personal foundation of his life: his family. He describes himself first as the father of two daughters and the husband of his wife, Susan. That opening set the tone for the rest of the discussion. Before Alan Fowler is a candidate, he is a family man whose life in Newton County has been built over decades of service, relationships, and roots.

Fowler and his wife moved to Newton County in 1995 after graduate school. He took a job at Salem High School, while Susan began teaching at Livingston Elementary. Not long after, the band director position at Eastside High School opened, and Fowler moved there the following year. That transition would become one of the defining turns in his life and career. What started as a professional opportunity became a long-term commitment not only to one school, but to an entire community.

One of the more charming stories from the interview involved the couple’s first introduction to Newton County. While looking for a house, they picked up a copy of The Covington News and read about a July 4th concert by the community band on the Square. Fowler recalled that one of their earliest experiences in the county was attending that celebration, meeting local people, and seeing the community gather around music. Looking back, it feels fitting that his introduction to Newton County came through the arts and public life—two things that would define his years here.

Listeners also got a fuller picture of Fowler’s background before Newton County. He was born at South Fulton Hospital, spent part of his childhood in Delaware, graduated from North Clayton High School, and later attended the University of Georgia. Both he and Susan were involved in the Redcoat Marching Band, though they somehow never met until their senior year despite overlapping in the same organization for three years. Their eventual connection, sparked by a key to a storage room and followed by a whirlwind early romance, made for one of the most memorable and warmest parts of the conversation.

As the conversation shifted toward education, Fowler offered a thoughtful reflection on what he learned over more than three decades in the classroom. He described three major lessons that shaped him.

The first was that leadership is not about the individual—it is about the team. He traced that lesson all the way back to his early days at Eastside, when he was tasked with building a marching band program from the ground up, with students who had never marched before and without much funding. He quickly realized that success would require teamwork from students, staff, helpers, graduates, and the broader community. That mindset clearly still guides him today.

The second lesson came through fatherhood. Fowler spoke candidly about how becoming a parent made him a better educator. When his oldest daughter was born, he said he immediately understood with greater clarity that he was teaching other people’s children—their “little babies”—and that realization carried a new weight of responsibility. Later, when his daughter moved through the school system and eventually joined the band program, the work became even more personal. His students were no longer just young people he was helping along their journey; they became part of his own journey too.

The third lesson may have been the most philosophical and perhaps the most revealing. Fowler shared how deeply he had been influenced by the statement often heard from Principal Jeff Cher at Eastside High School: “There’s no such thing as an unimportant person or an unimportant day.” Over time, he came to believe that the statement was even more powerful without the limiting phrase “at Eastside High School.” In his view, there is no unimportant person or unimportant day anywhere—not at Eastside, not at Newton, not at Alcovy, and not in any school or community. That belief seemed to capture the heart of his public service philosophy: people matter, every day matters, and every school matters.

When asked how those lessons inform his decision to run for elected office, Fowler’s answer was straightforward. The same values that shaped him as a teacher and statewide education leader are the values he would bring to the Board of Education. In his current role as Executive Director of the Georgia Music Educators Association, he leads an organization with approximately 3,500 members. He spoke about the importance of supporting educators, staying connected to students, and making sure people feel heard. It is clear that he does not see school board service as a place to impose himself, but as a place to collaborate, listen, and help lead responsibly.

That idea came into clearer focus when the hosts asked about the actual responsibilities of a school board member. Fowler identified four key areas: fiscal responsibility, policymaking, climate management, and strategic planning. He emphasized that no single board member arrives and changes everything alone. Instead, school board work is team-based work. It requires relationships, consensus-building, and a willingness to move the group forward together.

Because of his years in education and his current statewide work, Fowler brings a broad view to local issues. He has visited 216 schools in the last three and a half years, keeping himself closely connected to what is happening on the ground in Georgia schools. That exposure has given him both appreciation for what Newton County does well and awareness of where improvement may be possible.

On the positive side, Fowler said Newton County Schools compares favorably when it comes to school safety protocols. He noted that not all school systems have the same level of controlled access and security procedures, and he was direct in saying Newton County is doing well in that area. That kind of comparative perspective is particularly valuable because it comes not from theory, but from firsthand observation.

He also pointed to areas where other systems may have advantages. One was stronger support for fine arts professional development and staffing, particularly in districts that have dedicated fine arts supervisors. Another was the idea of direct feeder patterns from elementary to middle to high school. Fowler said there is great value in systems where students grow up with a strong sense of where they are headed—academically, athletically, artistically, and socially. He acknowledged the complexity of Newton County’s current structure but clearly sees feeder alignment as an idea worth considering.

The conversation turned next to major challenges facing students and school systems. Fowler framed the issue in two connected parts: the challenges facing schools and the challenges facing students are deeply related. One major challenge, he said, is financial pressure—doing more with less in a time when the cost of everything continues to rise. He did not pretend that these issues are easy or avoidable. Rather, he spoke about them as real and pressing.

That perspective is informed by his own leadership experience. When Fowler took over at the Georgia Music Educators Association, the organization had run deficits for seven consecutive years. He shared that they are now about to report a fourth straight year in the black. Again, he was quick not to make it about himself alone, but the experience clearly gives him credibility when it comes to watching budgets, asking hard questions, and helping organizations regain financial stability.

He also addressed another modern challenge: technology and screens in schools. Fowler was careful not to demonize technology outright, but he did express concern that schools across the country may have leaned too heavily into screens after COVID. He talked about the need to “rein that in” and preserve forms of teaching and learning that involve real interaction, discussion, movement, and presence. It was a nuanced answer—one that recognized the usefulness of technology while still asking whether too much screen-based learning can come at the expense of human development.

Teacher support and retention were another major topic, and Fowler’s answer there was one of the clearest and strongest in the episode. He said teachers are professionals and should be treated like professionals. He also stressed that they need to be heard. That line resonated in the conversation because it reflected both respect and practical wisdom. Supporting teachers is not just about compensation, though pay matters. It is also about listening, honoring expertise, and building a system where educators feel valued.

Fowler also praised the district’s efforts to recognize support staff, particularly through recent Hero Awards that honored people such as custodians and school nutrition employees. He clearly sees schools as whole communities, where success depends on far more than classroom instruction alone.

One of the most memorable sections of the conversation came when Fowler articulated his philosophy of education in the simplest possible terms: the purpose of the school system is to develop great citizens. For him, that is the central mission. Anything else that does not support that mission should be secondary. He spoke about the need for students to leave school prepared not just for tests or credentials, but for life—for jobs, hobbies, hope, civic engagement, and contribution to the community.

That philosophy shaped his comments on workforce development and student readiness. Fowler reflected on a time when schools seemed to push nearly every student toward college, even when that was not necessarily the right fit. In his view, that kind of one-size-fits-all thinking misses the reality that students are different, gifted differently, and headed toward different futures. Some may pursue university degrees. Others may thrive in technical programs, coding, welding, animation, agriculture, or other trades and professions. The role of the school system, as he sees it, is not to funnel everyone through the same narrow definition of success, but to prepare each student for the future that best fits them.

That belief was illustrated through his own daughters, who have very different interests and goals. Fowler used their stories to underscore a broader truth: children are not cookie-cutter versions of each other, and schools should not treat them that way.

Late in the episode, Trey Bailey asked Fowler how he stays grounded amid so many responsibilities. The answer came back where the conversation began: family. But Fowler also connected that answer to why he is running in the first place. In a moving story, he described taking up running in 2017 after seeing a challenge online. What began as an unlikely experiment became a lasting discipline. He said he is now thousands of miles into that journey, and it all began because he wanted to be healthy and present for his younger daughter.

That same instinct—to be present, to invest, to show up for children—seems to animate his candidacy. He said plainly that he is running because he wants the best for his own children and for the children across the county. He wants the best for the kids down the street, in every neighborhood, in every school. It is hard to hear that part of the conversation and not recognize how deeply personal public education is to him.

Fowler also shared that he had opportunities in past years to leave Newton County for other jobs. In one especially powerful story, he recounted taking a job elsewhere in 2006, writing a resignation letter, and then realizing—through a mix of grief, conviction, and physical unease—that leaving would be a mistake. He backed out. Another opportunity came later, and again he stayed. His conclusion was simple: he and his wife are who they are because they stayed. Newton County became home, and staying shaped their identity and service.

That story gave emotional weight to the campaign message. Fowler is not running as an outsider stepping in with theories. He is running as someone who has built his life here, stayed here intentionally, worked here, raised children here, and believes this community is worth continued investment.

As the episode closed, the hosts asked how listeners could support the campaign. Fowler pointed people to his website, email, and Facebook presence and acknowledged that like every local campaign, help is needed—from signs to donations to general support.

More than anything, though, this episode did what Candidate Conversations is designed to do: help the community hear the person behind the campaign. Alan Fowler came across as thoughtful, warm, experienced, and deeply committed to the formation of young people. Whether listeners know him from Eastside High School, the music world, or are hearing from him for the first time, Episode 83 offers a meaningful introduction to both the candidate and his convictions.

In the end, one of the best summaries of Fowler’s vision came in a simple phrase he used near the close of the conversation. He wants young people to have jobs, hobbies, and hope. That line, like much of the interview, reflects a belief that education is not merely about achievement metrics. It is about building lives, strengthening communities, and helping students become the kind of citizens who will carry Newton County forward.

Alan Fowler Contact Information

Campaign Website: FowlerForNewton.com

Campaign Email: FowlerForNewton@gmail.com

Facebook: Fowler For Newton

Episode Sponsors

All Air

When it comes to heating, cooling, and healthy air in Covington and the greater Atlanta area, All Air is committed to doing things the right way. Locally owned and professionally operated, All Air provides repairs, maintenance, and full system installations with reliable service and highly trained technicians who take time to walk customers through their options. They offer free estimates on replacements, free second opinions, flexible financing options, and 10% off for military, veterans, and senior citizens. Mention The Town Square Podcast for $25 off your next repair service.

Phone: 770-761-9914

Website: allairservices.com

Relevant IT Services

Relevant IT Services partners with businesses and nonprofits to improve productivity and cybersecurity through customized technology solutions that actually fit each client’s needs. From computers, networks, printers, and phone systems to cybersecurity training and support for remote or multi-location teams, Relevant IT helps organizations stay secure and run smoothly behind the scenes. Town Square Podcast listeners can mention the show to receive 25% off onboarding, and businesses can schedule a free assessment through their website or by phone.

Phone: 470-864-4037

Website: RelevantSvcs.com

Offer: 25% off onboarding for Town Square Podcast listeners

As with the best Town Square conversations, this one was not just about policy. It was about purpose, pain, perseverance, and public service. Sanders shared a deeply personal story of loss, a strong vision for Newton County, and a clear message to voters: she believes this role is not a place to learn on the job, but a place to arrive prepared and ready to work.

A story shaped by family, education, and loss

Sanders begins by sharing her roots. Originally from Louisiana, she moved to Georgia in 1999 and to Newton County in 2007. She comes from a family of educators. Her father was a history teacher and band director, and her mother taught economics and social studies. Education, she said, was never optional in her household.

That foundation shaped the course of her life, but so did tragedy. Sanders lost both of her parents when she was still very young—her mother around the time of her high school graduation, and her father about a year and a half later. She described a frightening head-on collision the night of graduation, the emotional weight of her mother’s terminal diagnosis, and the painful reality of walking through those seasons while still trying to become an adult.

Those experiences, she explained, forced her to grow up quickly. They also deepened her sense of purpose. Rather than becoming defined by grief, Sanders chose to carry forward her parents’ legacy of service, advocacy, and investment in young people.

Why Newton County became home

Though she first purchased a home in Henry County, Sanders said a friend introduced her to Newton County in the early 2000s. After visiting and seeing the area for herself, she made the move and has now spent years raising her daughter and serving the community here.

That long local connection has shaped the way she sees public service. Over the years, residents have known Sanders in a variety of roles: commissioner, professor, lobbyist, organizer, and community advocate. Throughout the conversation, that wide range of experience came through clearly. She did not speak like someone new to public life. She spoke like someone who has spent years learning how systems work and how decisions affect everyday people.

A leader built in many rooms

One of the most interesting parts of the interview was hearing Sanders describe how her different roles have prepared her for higher office. Before serving locally, she worked behind the scenes in political organizing and on campaigns for state representatives. As a lobbyist, she has spent time at the Capitol fighting for issues, navigating legislation, and building relationships. As a professor and trainer, she has taught and presented on policy, technology, and leadership.

She said all of those experiences have prepared her for what would be a different level of public service in the Georgia House. Unlike county government, where a commissioner works with a small board, the legislature requires navigating far more personalities, more competing interests, and broader coalitions. Sanders argued that because she has already been in those rooms and already worked on legislation, the transition would not be a dramatic learning curve.

That readiness became one of the recurring themes of the episode.

People over politics

Again and again, Sanders returned to a phrase that captures her political philosophy: people over politics.

For her, the biggest issues facing families are not truly partisan issues. Housing affordability, mental health, Medicare, education, and property taxes are not just Democratic or Republican talking points, she argued. They are people issues.

That framework fit neatly with the spirit of The Town Square Podcast, where Trey and Gabriel often talk about the messy middle—the place where disagreement does not have to destroy relationships and where public conversation can still be civil. Sanders echoed that same posture, saying that elected officials should be able to fight hard for their districts and still sit down together afterward. Politics should not be personal. It should be purposeful.

What success would look like in the Georgia House

When asked what the most important responsibilities of the job would be, Sanders focused first on communication and accountability.

She said state legislators should host pre-session and post-session town halls so constituents understand what their representatives are supporting, how they are voting, and what actually happened during the legislative session. In her view, representation is not just about casting votes in Atlanta. It is about keeping residents informed, educated, and engaged.

She also emphasized that civic responsibility goes both ways. Elected officials must create spaces for accountability, but residents must show up. In one of the strongest parts of the conversation, she challenged voters not to complain about public decisions while also refusing to participate in the public process.

That two-way relationship—between elected officials and the people they serve—was central to her vision of representative government.

Housing affordability and property tax pressure

If one issue came up more than any other, it was affordability.

Sanders spoke at length about the housing crisis, rising rental costs, and the pressure many homeowners—especially seniors—feel from increasing property tax bills. She argued that the American dream of homeownership has become much harder to reach and much harder to sustain.

One example she shared was especially powerful: seniors who have paid off their homes but still need loans or part-time work just to keep up with property taxes. In her view, that signals that something is fundamentally wrong with the way home values are being assessed and taxed.

She also challenged the current system of assessments in Georgia, saying “the math is not mathing.” For Sanders, this is not simply a local complaint. It is a statewide policy problem that calls for legislative attention and reform.

Public education and school funding

Another major section of the interview focused on public education. Sanders made clear that she supports giving families options, but not at the expense of underfunding the schools most families rely on.

She defended public education as essential not just academically, but socially. Schools provide mentoring, meals, stability, and support for young people whose needs go far beyond a classroom lesson. For many students, school is one of the only consistent places where caring adults are present in their lives.

That perspective connected with Trey’s own role on the school board, and the conversation turned toward how the state could better support local systems. Sanders argued that school funding and property tax strain are deeply connected and that state leaders need to understand the practical consequences their choices create for districts like Newton County.

Infrastructure: planning before growth

Infrastructure readiness was another major campaign issue Sanders discussed.

She argued that Newton County has often approached development backwards—allowing large-scale housing growth and then scrambling afterward to widen roads, build schools, and address public safety needs. In other words, the county has often been reactive instead of proactive.

As a potential state representative, Sanders said part of her role would be helping bring the right funding to the county while also working more closely with local officials, the school system, law enforcement, fire services, businesses, and cities. One of her sharpest observations was that too many public bodies operate in silos. They are not talking enough before major decisions are made.

For a fast-growing county, she sees that lack of coordination as a major problem.

Data centers: not against them, but against the current approach

The podcast also turned to one of Newton County’s hottest topics: data centers.

Sanders made an important distinction. She said she is not anti-data center. She understands that AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure are not going away. In fact, given her background in education and technology, she has taught others how to incorporate AI tools into their work.

Her concern is not the existence of data centers. It is the lack of regulation and the way they are being placed and approved.

She praised local officials for taking steps like moratoriums to slow the process down and create space for better research and regulation. She argued that local governments need clearer rules, especially around water use, proximity to neighborhoods, and long-term environmental and infrastructure impacts.

Her position was one of the more nuanced moments of the episode: acknowledging technological reality while insisting that growth must be handled responsibly.

Transparency and truth-telling

Another defining theme of the conversation was transparency.

Sanders described herself as someone who tells the truth plainly, even when it rubs people the wrong way. She said transparency is not optional for healthy public trust. Residents deserve to know what is happening in their county and why public officials are making the decisions they make.

That led to one of the most memorable lines of the episode: the difference between a public servant and a politician. In Sanders’ telling, public servants serve the community; politicians serve themselves.

That framing sums up how she wants to be seen—and how she wants to govern.

Youth programming and recreation

When asked what issue does not get enough attention in Newton County, Sanders pointed immediately to youth programming and recreation.

This part of the interview felt especially passionate. She described hearing directly from young people and families who feel there is simply not enough for kids to do in Newton County. She argued that the county has often talked about doing more for youth without actually following through in the right way.

One of her strongest criticisms was that adults too often design youth programs without actually asking youth what they want. She described visiting schools, listening to students, and learning that what many of them wanted was not a traditional boys and girls club model, but something more modern, creative, and practical—technology spaces, gaming rooms, study-friendly café environments, green screen tools, and access to multiple support services in one place.

She shared a vision of a youth innovation center that could include wraparound supports, nonprofit partners, commercial components to help fund operations, and programming designed around what today’s students actually need and want.

It was one of the clearest examples in the interview of Sanders moving beyond general rhetoric and speaking in concrete terms.

Economic development on the western side of Newton County

Sanders also addressed the issue of sales tax leakage—how many Newton County residents, particularly on the western side, spend their money in Rockdale County because that is where more of the desired retail and restaurant options are located.

She argued that better economic development in Newton County could help keep that money local and eventually offset some of the tax burden residents feel elsewhere. For her, this is not just about attracting random growth. It is about being strategic and bringing in the kinds of businesses residents actually want and will support.

This part of the conversation connected economic development to quality of life, affordability, and long-term county sustainability.

Staying grounded in faith and accountability

Toward the end of the interview, Trey asked Sanders how she stays grounded while wearing so many hats and carrying so much of other people’s pain and frustration.

Her answer was simple and revealing: faith, accountability, and purpose.

She said politics can drive a person crazy if they do not have the right people around them—people who are not just yes-men, but people who tell the truth, offer support, and help keep perspective. She also said public service must be rooted in genuine calling. If someone enters politics just for the title, they will not last. But if the work is truly purpose-driven, there is strength to keep going even through criticism and challenge.

The closing message to voters

The episode closed with Gabriel's notorious “magic bullhorn” question: why should people vote for Alana Sanders?

Her answer pulled together nearly everything discussed in the interview. She said voters should support her because she has already done the work. She has written bills, worked at the Capitol, fought for local needs, built relationships, and learned how the process operates. In her view, the Georgia House is not a place where Newton County can afford to send someone who needs extensive on-the-job training.

Because House terms are only two years, she argued that the district needs someone who can be effective immediately.

That closing message fit the title of this episode perfectly: Ready on Day One.

Final thoughts

This was a strong episode in the Candidate Conversations series because it gave listeners more than campaign language. It gave them context. Sanders came across as deeply rooted in service, shaped by hardship, experienced in government, and focused on practical issues that matter in Newton County right now.

Whether listeners agree with every position she holds or not, the conversation offered a meaningful look at how she thinks, what she values, and how she would approach the role if elected.

And that is exactly what this series is supposed to do.

Contact Information for Hon. Alana Sanders:

Contact Alana Sanders

Website: repsanders.com

Phone: 404-374-3677

Social Media: Search “State Representative Alana Sanders”

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For listeners in Newton County and across the district, this conversation offers something the modern political cycle rarely provides: time. Time to hear a candidate explain not just what he believes, but why he believes it. Time to hear the story behind the résumé. Time to move beyond campaign signs, social media posts, and party talking points into a fuller picture of a person asking to represent hundreds of thousands of people in Congress.

Blair enters the race with a background that combines public education, local governance, and community-rooted leadership. He is not new to public service, and he is not unfamiliar with the pressures that come with leadership during turbulent times. In fact, some of the most compelling moments in the episode come when he reflects on serving on the Gwinnett County Board of Education during the pandemic and how those years shaped his perspective on what it means to lead during uncertainty.

A Homegrown Story Rooted in Family and Community

One of the first things listeners learn is that Everton Blair’s story is deeply rooted in metro Atlanta. Born and raised in the Snellville and Stone Mountain area, Blair is the son of Jamaican immigrants who made their home in Gwinnett County during a very different era in the county’s history. As he describes it, he grew up watching a community change and diversify around him.

That experience clearly shaped his identity.

He attended Shiloh Elementary, Middle, and High School and describes himself as both a high-achieving student and a student leader. He was the kind of kid teachers noticed — the kind of student whose path was made possible in part because educators believed in him, challenged him, and opened doors for him.

That early support mattered. It gave him both opportunity and perspective.

From there, Blair went to Harvard, an experience that widened his exposure to ambition, talent, and influence. But instead of following many of his peers into finance or consulting, he chose a different route. He came back home and became a high school math teacher at KIPP Atlanta Collegiate. In the episode, he describes that work as both his most difficult and his most rewarding job.

That detail matters, because it reinforces something listeners hear throughout the conversation: Blair’s public identity is not built primarily around political ambition. It is built around service, systems, and a desire to make institutions work better for ordinary people.

From Public Education to Public Leadership

Blair’s background in education is central to the conversation. Trey, as a fellow public education advocate and school board member, is able to engage him in a way that opens up some of the most substantive moments in the interview.

Blair explains that he was first elected to the Gwinnett County Board of Education in 2018, a historic moment in several ways. He became the youngest person ever elected to the board, its first person of color, and its first openly gay member. He was not just entering office; he was entering as a symbol of change in one of the largest and most diverse school districts in the state.

But as he notes, being first is not always easy. The “first” can quickly become “the only,” and being the only often comes with pressure, scrutiny, and weight that others do not have to carry.

Still, he stepped into the role.

And then, just a few years later, he found himself in one of the most difficult leadership contexts imaginable: chairing the board during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For listeners who served in public leadership during those years — especially in education — this part of the conversation will resonate. Trey reflects on his own experience during that same period, and both men acknowledge something many in the public still may not fully appreciate: just how difficult those decisions were.

School boards were making choices that affected children, families, teachers, budgets, safety, and the emotional well-being of entire communities. In Gwinnett’s case, that meant making decisions for roughly 185,000 students. Blair talks about the pressure, the uncertainty, and the importance of using federal relief funds to provide hotspots, laptops, meals, and flexibility for families and staff.

He also expresses confidence in the decisions he and the board made, even when those decisions were unpopular. That willingness to stand by difficult choices is part of the leadership profile he brings into this congressional race.

Why Congress? Why Now?

One of the clearest themes in the interview is Blair’s argument that Congress needs generational change.

He does not dance around that point.

He argues that too many elected officials stay in office too long, become disconnected from the realities of daily life, and fail to respond to the speed at which society, technology, and the economy are changing. In his view, that disconnect is especially dangerous right now, as the nation navigates rising costs, technological disruption, public frustration, and deep political division.

For Blair, this race is not simply about party alignment. It is about whether Georgia’s 13th District will be represented by someone who is present, responsive, and able to communicate clearly with the people he serves.

He describes the district as both diverse and dynamic — the kind of place that needs a representative who understands its complexity and is willing to do the work of staying connected to it. That includes Rockdale County, parts of Newton County including Covington, Porterdale, and Oxford, and portions of Henry, Clayton, and Gwinnett.

It is a large district, a diverse district, and in Blair’s view, a district ready for fresh leadership.

The Primary Matters

Another important thread in the episode is the role of the Democratic primary.

Trey and Blair both emphasize that in a district like Georgia’s 13th — one where the Democratic nominee will likely have a major advantage in the general election — the primary is where the real choice happens for many voters.

That means the election date matters.

It means early voting matters.

And it means voters need to do the work of learning about the candidates before November.

That emphasis fits perfectly with what your Candidate Conversations series is trying to accomplish. The podcast is becoming a resource for local voters who want more than slogans and mailers. In that sense, this episode serves not just as an interview, but as part of a broader civic education effort.

Term Limits and Accountability

One notable portion of the conversation centers on term limits.

Blair says plainly that he supports them. He argues that if the Constitution sets a minimum age for office, it makes sense to also have some limit on how long someone should remain there. In his view, a reasonable cap would be around 12 years, enough time for someone to do the work while still ensuring regular opportunities for renewal and accountability.

This part of the conversation ties into one of his larger concerns: incumbency can create passivity. When officeholders remain in place for decades, voters may assume they are still active and effective simply because they continue to see their names on the ballot. Meanwhile, Blair argues, communities can be changing rapidly while their representation remains stagnant.

Whether listeners agree with him or not, this section offers insight into how he thinks about leadership — not as possession, but as stewardship.

A Foundation in Servant Leadership

When Trey asks where Blair’s servant-leader mentality comes from, the answer is deeply personal.

Blair describes himself as a “church boy,” raised in a family where faith, service, profession, and education were closely intertwined. His mother is both a pediatrician and a minister. His grandfather is a Pentecostal bishop who had also worked as a carpenter. That example — of vocation and calling working together — clearly shaped his view of life and leadership.

He recalls hearing throughout childhood that the two most important things you could have were a good salvation and a good education.

That line stands out because it gives listeners a window into the moral and cultural framework beneath his politics. It also helps explain why education and public service remain so central to the way he understands his role in the world.

“People Before Profit”

Perhaps the biggest policy theme in the episode is Blair’s emphasis on affordability and his phrase “people before profit.”

This is where the conversation becomes especially substantive.

Blair argues that many of the systems shaping daily life in America — the tax code, labor conditions, housing markets, healthcare access, and even food systems — increasingly serve the wealthy few rather than working families. He pushes back against traditional economic indicators like the Dow and unemployment rate as incomplete measures of prosperity, arguing that they often fail to reflect what life actually feels like for people trying to pay bills, buy groceries, raise children, and maintain stable housing.

In his view, the real questions are more practical:

Can one full-time job support a family?

Can a person afford a doctor visit?

Can a young adult buy a home?

Can a family build wealth across generations?

These are the questions, he suggests, that should define economic policy.

Blair supports raising the minimum wage, expanding child tax credits, and shifting the tax burden more heavily onto billionaires and large corporations. His core argument is simple: ordinary families are already paying enough, while the wealthiest institutions and individuals are not contributing proportionately.

Housing and the Middle Class

One of the strongest policy exchanges in the episode concerns housing.

Blair argues that homeownership remains one of the clearest pathways into the middle class and one of the most important tools for building generational wealth. But he says that path is being blocked by a mix of corporate behavior, inadequate supply, and political neglect.

He points to private equity firms and large corporations buying up homes in growing communities and converting them into rental properties, reducing the available stock for individual buyers. He notes that the median age of a first-time homebuyer is now 42, a striking figure that underscores how difficult homeownership has become for younger adults.

In the Newton-Henry-Rockdale-Gwinnett corridor, that issue is not theoretical. It is deeply practical.

Listeners in fast-growing communities will likely connect with this section, because many have seen the same trend up close: homes bought quickly, neighborhoods shifting, rental portfolios expanding, and affordability slipping out of reach.

Blair’s proposed response is to create incentives that favor actual homeownership and discourage speculative accumulation by large firms. He also argues that leaders need to confront the long shadow of the 2008 housing crisis, saying the country has never fully recovered in ways that matter to ordinary buyers.

Public Education: A Core Calling

It is no surprise that the conversation returns in depth to public education.

Blair is passionate about it, and Trey knows how to ask the right questions to let that passion come through.

Blair talks about the danger of weakening the U.S. Department of Education and warns that the schools most likely to suffer are Title I schools and communities already facing resource gaps. He frames public education not only as an institution worth defending, but as a foundational pillar of opportunity.

Two education priorities stand out in particular:

Early Literacy

Blair argues that it is unacceptable for the country to still struggle so severely with reading outcomes. He calls for stronger investments in pre-K, Head Start, early literacy, and better compensation for paraprofessionals and early childhood workers.

Career and Technical Education

He also argues that the education system may have pushed too far in the direction of “college for all” without preserving enough dignity and opportunity around trades and technical careers. He supports stronger career pathways, more industry credentials in high school, and a more intentional connection between education and the workforce.

This part of the interview is especially strong because it connects education directly to economics. Blair is not merely arguing for more school funding. He is arguing for a system that prepares students for a changing labor market and offers real opportunity at different entry points.

Healthcare and Human Need

Healthcare is another central issue in the conversation.

Blair supports expanding Medicaid and is a proponent of Medicare for All, arguing that healthcare should be treated as a public good rather than a privilege tied primarily to employment or income. He acknowledges that universal coverage would cost more upfront, but says it would also create long-term savings by improving health outcomes, reducing instability, and removing employer dependency from the system.

Just as importantly, he frames healthcare as both a moral issue and an economic one.

A country that spends heavily but produces poor health outcomes, he argues, needs to rethink its priorities. He links this to broader concerns about insurance, pharmaceutical interests, food systems, and the incentives embedded in the current system.

Whether or not listeners agree with every policy proposal, the coherence of his worldview is clear: people should not be made sicker, poorer, or more vulnerable because systems are designed primarily to protect profit.

Immigration, Humanity, and the Courts

The episode also touches on immigration, and Blair approaches it from the standpoint of both order and dignity.

He argues that law-abiding, tax-paying undocumented residents who are already part of the fabric of community life should have a pathway to citizenship. He also calls for stronger funding of immigration courts so that people can actually have their cases heard in a timely way.

Rather than treating immigration as a fear-driven security issue alone, Blair argues that the current system is deeply backlogged, punitive, and dehumanizing. He warns that political narratives often distract from practical reforms that could create a more just and efficient process.

This section fits with one of the larger philosophical themes of the episode: Blair believes many divisive national issues are used to keep ordinary people distracted while more powerful interests continue to consolidate wealth and influence.

Bridge Building and Political Reality

Despite taking strong positions, Blair also emphasizes his belief in bridge building.

He says he has conservative friends, worked with people across ideological differences, and understands that effective representation requires finding common ground when possible. He does not present himself as naive about polarization, but he does present himself as committed to conversation.

That balance is one of the more interesting parts of the episode.

On one hand, he is willing to criticize systems, institutions, and political figures directly. On the other hand, he insists that he wants to represent people, not caricatures. For voters tired of both outrage and vagueness, that combination may prove compelling.

Staying Grounded

As the interview winds down, Trey asks Blair how he stays grounded in the middle of an ambitious congressional campaign.

The answer returns to family, community, and place.

Blair says this district is the only home he has really known. His family is here. His memories are here. His foundation is here. The people who shaped him are still around him. That rootedness, he says, helps him stay clear about the purpose of the campaign.

He also says something that lands especially well near the end of the episode: “Democracy is a group project.”

That line captures much of what he has been trying to say the whole time. He is not presenting himself as a savior. He is presenting himself as a representative — someone who wants to do the work with the people, not simply in front of them.

Final Thoughts

Episode 81 is one of the more substantive entries in your Candidate Conversations series so far because it combines biography, philosophy, and policy in a way that feels rooted rather than rehearsed.

Listeners will come away with a much clearer understanding of who Everton Blair is:

• a son of immigrants
• a former math teacher
• a former school board chair
• a public servant shaped by education and faith
• and a candidate arguing that this moment requires a new generation of leadership

Whether voters agree with all of his ideas or not, the conversation gives them something increasingly rare in politics: the chance to hear a candidate think out loud, explain his values, and make the case in his own words.

And in a primary season where many races will be decided long before November, that kind of access matters.

How to Contact Everton Blair

For listeners who want to learn more about Everton Blair or support his campaign:

Website: evertonblair.com

Social Media: @evertonblair or @evertonblairjr

Primary Election Day Mentioned in Episode

May 19

Early Voting Mentioned in Episode

Begins April 27

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For many listeners in Newton County, this episode may have served as their first introduction to Mauldin. Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall opened the conversation by helping listeners understand exactly who he is, where he comes from, and what motivates him to run for office. What followed was a candid, often personal conversation about family, faith, business, public service, and the kind of government Mauldin believes Georgia needs.

A Small-Town Background Rooted in Family

Mauldin described himself as a “small town guy,” someone who grew up around Greene, Putnam, and Morgan counties and who still identifies deeply with the country mindset and rural values of the region. He comes from a small-business family and says those experiences shaped the way he sees money, responsibility, and leadership.

He also spoke warmly about his family. He and his wife, Candice, recently celebrated 20 years of marriage. They have three children, and throughout the conversation Mauldin returned again and again to the importance of family life, raising children well, and creating a future worth passing on to the next generation.

His story included a year of football at the University of West Georgia, time at Lee University near Chattanooga, and a few laughs about his rugby days. But beneath the humor was a clear theme: his life has been shaped by discipline, teamwork, faith, and a willingness to work hard.

Leadership Shaped by Listening

One of the more interesting parts of the conversation came when Mauldin reflected on how different perspectives have shaped him. He spoke about the influence of his wife, noting that she came from a different socioeconomic background than he did. That experience taught him that leadership requires openness, humility, and a willingness to listen.

He shared a line from a mentor that captured his philosophy well: “Minds are like parachutes. The only time they work is when they’re open.”

That outlook has informed both his personal leadership style and the way he runs his business. Rather than surrounding himself with “yes men,” Mauldin said he values challenge, input, and honest disagreement. In his words, if all he wanted was agreement, he could just buy a parrot.

That idea carried throughout the episode. Even while articulating strong convictions, Mauldin presented himself as someone who believes leadership is strongest when it is accountable, participatory, and rooted in listening to others.

Business Experience and Decentralized Leadership

Mauldin currently leads his family’s cabinets and countertops business, which travels throughout the Southeast. He discussed the company’s journey, including the hardships of the Great Recession and the lessons learned through navigating both challenge and growth.

The company was recently recognized as a Family-Owned Small Business of the Year, but Mauldin was quick to redirect praise to his team. He described his leadership style as “decentralized command,” emphasizing that not every decision should run through one person. Instead, he believes strong organizations invite participation, encourage buy-in, and empower others to lead.

That same principle showed up repeatedly in the conversation as he described how he thinks government should work. In business and in government, Mauldin believes the closer power is kept to the people affected by it, the better the results will be.

Why He’s Running

Mauldin said the opening of the House District 114 seat created an opportunity for someone new to step forward and serve. But for him, running is about more than filling a vacancy. He believes good people must be willing to step into public life, especially when politics feels frustrating, divisive, or dirty.

He argued that one reason many good people avoid politics is because they do not want to deal with the messiness of it all. But in his view, that is exactly why strong, grounded men and women should be willing to step up. He believes public service should not be left only to the ambitious or the loudest voices, but should include people with real-world experience, strong values, and a desire to serve.

Throughout the episode, Mauldin emphasized that disagreement is not the problem. In fact, he sees disagreement as healthy. What matters is whether leaders are willing to challenge ideas honestly while still working toward the common good.

Protecting the Vulnerable

One of the strongest recurring themes in the interview was Mauldin’s belief that a just society protects its most vulnerable people. He connected this conviction both to his Christian faith and to his broader political philosophy.

He spoke emotionally about children in particular, arguing that society has a moral duty to defend those who cannot defend themselves. He referenced a friend who worked to rescue children from sex trafficking and said those realities deeply affect how he thinks about leadership and responsibility.

He also used an illustration about archaeologists discovering healed bones in ancient civilizations. For him, those healed bones reflect a society willing to care for those who could not survive on their own. In Mauldin’s view, civilization is measured in part by how it treats the weak, the elderly, children, and the vulnerable.

That theme surfaced in several policy areas he mentioned, including human trafficking, drug trafficking, support for law enforcement, and his views on unborn children.

Property Taxes, Fixed Incomes, and Staying in Your Home

When the conversation turned to issues facing District 114, Mauldin quickly raised concern about property taxes. He made the case that rising property values are putting serious pressure on people who have lived in their homes for decades, especially seniors and those on fixed incomes.

Even when millage rates remain the same, he noted, rising assessments can create a growing tax burden that many families simply cannot absorb. He argued that older residents who spent years contributing to schools and communities should not be forced out of their homes because taxes continue to rise faster than their income.

Rather than framing the issue in abstract budget terms, Mauldin spoke about the emotional and generational cost: losing not only a house, but a lifetime of memories.

Trey added his own perspective from the public education side, noting the tension between providing property tax relief and fully funding schools. Their exchange created one of the more substantive parts of the episode, as both acknowledged the need for thoughtful reform that protects taxpayers without undercutting education.

Government Efficiency and the Cost of Red Tape

Another major focus for Mauldin was government inefficiency and bureaucratic red tape. He spoke bluntly about frustrating state processes that slow down business and create unnecessary burdens for citizens.

One example he shared involved dealing with the Secretary of State’s office over a paperwork issue involving capitalization in a business name. Another involved identity verification questions so strange they became laughable. His broader point was that government processes often waste time and money in ways that frustrate ordinary citizens and business owners alike.

Mauldin said he wants to reduce those burdens and make state government more efficient. He argued that taxpayers deserve a government that serves them well, not one that creates obstacles for the sake of procedure.

He also floated ideas around incentivizing better stewardship inside government agencies. Rather than simply cutting budgets with a blunt instrument, he suggested looking for ways to reward efficiency and redirect savings toward priorities like employee compensation or taxpayer relief.

Growth, Development, and Preserving Rural Character

One of the most important parts of the conversation centered on growth. District 114 includes places experiencing change, pressure from metro expansion, and concern over what development may do to local culture and land use patterns.

Mauldin made clear that he is deeply proud of the district’s agricultural heritage. He spoke about Mansfield, Newborn, Morgan County, and the Social Circle portion of Walton County as places shaped by farming, land stewardship, and a way of life worth protecting.

He expressed concern that too often “the only thing growing is concrete,” and he pushed back on development philosophies that prioritize dense residential and industrial expansion without enough regard for the communities already there.

At the same time, he did not present himself as someone trying to impose a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, he returned to the principle of local control. In his view, local communities, mayors, city councils, county commissioners, and other local officials are best positioned to decide what kind of growth fits their area.

That means his role as a state representative, as he sees it, would not be to dictate local outcomes, but to help facilitate what local communities actually want.

Local Control as a Governing Philosophy

If there was one phrase that tied the whole interview together, it was this: keep power closer to the people.

Mauldin repeatedly returned to the idea that authority should move downward whenever possible. Powers unnecessarily concentrated in Washington should be brought back to the state. Powers unnecessarily concentrated at the state level should be returned to local governments.

He believes the more local the decision-making, the more accountable government becomes. People can more easily meet with city council members, county commissioners, sheriffs, and school leaders than with state or federal officials. Because of that, he sees local engagement as one of the most important responsibilities citizens have.

This philosophy shaped how he answered questions about growth, schools, taxation, and governance. It also influenced how he discussed his own role. He said the office is not really “his seat” at all, but something temporarily rented in service to the district. If done well, he said, people should remember the district more than the person who occupied the office.

Top Priorities at the Gold Dome

When asked what he would most like to accomplish if elected, Mauldin identified three broad priorities.

First, he wants to reduce the tax burden on citizens and help Georgians keep more money in their pockets.

Second, he wants to reduce government red tape and unnecessary regulation that complicates life for businesses and ordinary people.

Third, he wants to resist what he sees as ideological agendas being pushed onto children and families.

Even when discussing these priorities, Mauldin framed them less as political slogans and more as reflections of his underlying values. He told listeners that if people understand his core beliefs and character, they should have a pretty good sense of how he would vote and govern.

Staying Connected to the District

One of the standardized candidate questions in this series asked how he would stay connected to the people of District 114 once in office. Mauldin said he wants to remain accessible through town halls, phone calls, meetings with local elected leaders, and ongoing presence in the community.

He acknowledged that no representative can personally connect with every constituent all the time, but he said accountability matters. Returning calls, listening carefully, and staying in regular communication with mayors, county commissioners, city council members, and sheriffs would all be part of how he intends to stay informed.

At the same time, he showed awareness of a real leadership challenge: the loudest voice is not always the most representative voice. He said elected officials must use discernment to distinguish between individual agendas and the broader concerns of the people they serve.

Working with People Who Disagree

Another standardized question asked how he would work alongside people who strongly disagree with him. Mauldin answered by returning to perspective-taking and common sense.

Drawing on his work in the builders’ association, he described times when people from very different viewpoints arrived at similar conclusions for different reasons. In those situations, he said, the key is not necessarily whether everyone shares the same worldview, but whether they can find genuine common ground around a policy outcome.

He made clear that some issues are non-negotiable for him, especially those involving the Second Amendment, unborn children, and the role of government in personal life. But on many other issues, he believes there is room for practical problem-solving, so long as leaders are not driven by ego or self-interest.

Faith as the Foundation

Faith was not just a sidebar in this interview. It was central.

Mauldin spoke openly about his relationship with Christ and the ways his faith shapes his values, his sense of accountability, and his understanding of public service. He referenced Matthew 5:16 as a life verse and said he believes people should live in a way that points others not to themselves, but to God.

When Gabriel asked whether compromise in public life ever creates tension with his faith, Mauldin answered that if someone is truly grounded in God, that faith should permeate every part of life. He said his deepest accountability is not to public opinion, but to God Himself.

That answer gave listeners one of the clearest windows into how Mauldin thinks about integrity. For him, character is not just about public reputation. It is about who you are when no one else is looking.

Final Message to Voters

At the close of the episode, Mauldin was asked the now-familiar Town Square “bullhorn” question: if he had one message to broadcast to the whole district at once, what would it be?

His answer was direct and simple. He said people want to be left alone, they want more money in their pockets, and they want less government in their lives. He framed his campaign around service, not self-promotion, and said that reducing government burdens and helping people keep more of what they earn is what voters deserve.

That closing answer summed up the episode well. Whether listeners agree with every position or not, they got a clear sense of who Brett Mauldin is, what he believes, and how he would approach public office.

Final Thoughts

This episode is exactly what your Candidate Conversations series is supposed to do. It gives voters the chance to hear directly from a candidate in a long-form setting, beyond slogans and yard signs. Mauldin came across as grounded, values-driven, strongly conservative, and deeply committed to local control, family, and faith.

For voters in House District 114, this conversation offers a meaningful look at the man behind the campaign and the ideas driving his candidacy.

How to Connect with Brett Mauldin

Website: votebrettmauldin.com

Email: brett@votebrettmauldin.com

Facebook: Brett Mauldin for Georgia

Personal Facebook: Brett Mauldin

Phone: 706-717-0307

Sponsors / Advertisers

Appalachia Group Insurance

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Luther Rice College and Seminary

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Website: LutherRice.edu

That framing fit Hooper’s tone well. Throughout the episode, she presented herself not as a career politician chasing office, but as a longtime community advocate who sees this campaign as an extension of work she has already been doing for years.

Hooper began by sharing a little of her story. Born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, she moved to Georgia in 1992 as a student at Emory University and eventually decided this was where she wanted to build her life. She has now lived in Newton County for more than 24 years, longer than she lived in her hometown in Arkansas. Her daughters were born and raised here, and she made clear that Newton County is not just where she lives, but home in the fullest sense.

Her entry into community involvement came from a very local frustration. After returning from a trip, she noticed a cell tower had appeared near her subdivision and wanted to know why and how that had happened. That curiosity led her to attend a Board of Commissioners meeting, which opened the door to understanding how decisions are made in local government. What started as one concern in her own neighborhood eventually grew into a broader commitment to civic engagement and public advocacy.

One of the most memorable parts of the episode came when Hooper discussed her father’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. She shared that he was among a small group of men from Arkansas who traveled to Alabama to march in Selma. In an especially moving story, she explained that seven years ago, on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, reporters were looking to interview her father because he was believed to be the last surviving member of that group. Remarkably, he passed away the very day they were trying to reach him.

Hooper said she did not even know about his role in Selma until she was in middle school and interviewing him for a school project. She recalled him telling her that when Dr. King spoke, it felt as though even the leaves stood still to listen. But she also explained that he and others were pulled over and jailed on the way back from Alabama, and that much of what followed was likely wrapped in trauma he never fully unpacked with his children. That family history clearly shaped her understanding of justice, advocacy, and public responsibility.

She connected that legacy to her own path. Hooper described herself as someone who has long felt drawn to leadership and service, whether in school, work, church, or the broader community. She mentioned being the first Black student government president and first valedictorian in her hometown, and later working for Bill Clinton’s presidential campaign in 1992. Rather than treating public service like a new interest, she framed it as part of a lifelong throughline.

Professionally, Hooper serves as Executive Director of the Diabetes Association of Atlanta, where she has worked for more than 18 years. That work gave depth to much of what she said later in the conversation about healthcare, working families, and affordability. She talked about seeing firsthand how many people do what society tells them to do — work hard, support their families, and check all the expected boxes — yet still cannot afford the medications, supplies, or insurance coverage they need. She described this reality as one that keeps her grounded and connected to the struggles of ordinary people.

That theme of groundedness came up repeatedly. Hooper pushed back on the idea of being seen mainly as a politician, saying she identifies more with being a public servant. She described her candidacy as something that came through prayer, reflection, and a sense of calling. In one striking moment, she said that when something burdens you so deeply it moves you to tears, you have to respond. She gave the example of calling a developer about another proposed gas station in an area already saturated with them. As she spoke to him about what the community needed, she became emotional — not because of political theater, but because of genuine concern for the people who live there.

When asked why she is running again after a previous campaign, Hooper said this moment feels different because Newton County needs healing. That word became one of the episode’s anchors. She spoke candidly about the tension, disappointment, and frustration many residents feel after years of conflict, rapid change, and difficult public debates. In her view, the next chapter of leadership in Newton County has to include bridge-building and unity, not just partisanship or slogans.

Importantly, Hooper did not describe unity as pretending differences do not exist. Instead, she said it begins with listening to understand rather than listening to respond. She shared a story from canvassing in which an African-American woman told her she had once voted Democrat but now supported Donald Trump. Hooper admitted that, for many Democrats, that could have become a moment to shut down the conversation. Instead, she listened. By the end of the exchange, the woman said she was considering pulling a Democratic ballot this time. Hooper’s point was not that persuasion is easy, but that real listening creates opportunities to find shared concerns.

That same instinct shaped how she talked about governing. In the standard candidate questions segment, Hooper said that if elected, one of the first things she wants to do is listen and learn. She does not want to arrive at the Gold Dome acting as though she already knows everything. At the same time, she said she is already building relationships and expects to continue working not only with Democrats, but with Republicans as well. She understands that if she wants to accomplish anything in a Republican-led legislature, bridge-building will not be optional.

When the conversation turned to policy, Hooper identified several issues that are clearly central to her campaign.

First was mental health. She said that as she has talked with residents, one of the concerns she hears more than expected is the need for better mental health resources, especially for families with young adult children who are struggling. She linked that issue not only to families in crisis, but also to broader challenges like homelessness and lack of treatment capacity.

Second was affordability, which she described as the big umbrella issue covering much of what people are dealing with right now. She spoke about the strain of property taxes, especially on seniors, and said she is researching legislation and examples from elsewhere that might help relieve some of that burden. She also discussed housing affordability and the barriers facing first-time homebuyers. She contrasted today’s realities with her own experience buying a home at a young age through assistance programs that gave people a foothold. In her view, younger generations need that kind of pathway again.

Third was healthcare. Because of her nonprofit work, Hooper spoke with conviction about Georgia’s ongoing struggles around access and cost. She expressed support for Medicaid expansion and emphasized that many people who appear financially stable on paper are still one medical crisis away from serious hardship.

The conversation also spent time on public education, a subject especially important to Trey Bailey. Hooper said education remains close to her heart because she once planned to become a teacher and even completed student teaching before her path shifted. She praised educators and acknowledged the tension between senior concerns over property taxes and the local reliance on those taxes to fund public schools. Rather than offering easy answers, she said she wants to understand why the state continues to fall short in this area and how stronger state support could help close those gaps.

On economic development and growth, Hooper struck a balanced tone. She did not reject growth outright, but argued that residents must have meaningful opportunities to be heard. In her view, when people are allowed to speak but feel ignored, frustration grows and misinformation spreads more easily. She said public input has to feel real, even when government cannot grant every request. She also emphasized that companies and industries coming into Newton County should be investing in the community through workforce development, internships, training, and opportunities for local students.

On communication and transparency, Hooper said she wants to stay accessible long after the campaign ends. She has already begun hosting gatherings she calls Coffee, Community, and Conversations, and said she plans to continue that model if elected. She also mentioned a future newsletter and regular community engagement as ways to keep constituents informed about legislation and local concerns. She defined accountability not only as telling the truth and avoiding overpromising, but also as showing up, voting, doing the work, and being honest when something cannot be accomplished.

As the episode wound down, Hooper delivered perhaps her clearest message to voters. She said she wants people to know: I see you. I hear you. I feel what you are feeling. Whether the issue is medication costs, grocery prices, property taxes, or mental health concerns, she wants residents to know she is paying attention. She argued that her life, work, and previous community involvement have prepared her for this role, and that her campaign is rooted in integrity and real representation.

It was a strong ending to an episode that stayed thoughtful from beginning to end. More than anything, this conversation gave listeners a clearer sense of Karla Hooper’s heart, priorities, and style of leadership. For voters in District 113, this episode offers a helpful long-form introduction to a candidate who says she is ready not just to campaign, but to listen, connect, and serve.

How to contact Karla Hooper

Campaign website: Elect Karla D. Hooper

Website: https://electkarladhooper.com/

Facebook: Karla Daniels Hooper for Georgia State House District 113

Instagram/X: @KarlaForNewton

Email: KPDaniels18@gmail.com

Phone: 404-368-0775

Links mentioned in the show

Georgia My Voter Page: mvp.sos.ga.gov

Use this to verify registration, find your district, confirm your ballot, and check voting information.

Sponsors / Advertisers

Relevant IT Services

Relevant IT partners with businesses and nonprofits to improve productivity and cybersecurity with technology tailored to each client. They support computers, networks, printers, phone systems, remote workers, and cybersecurity training. The official website is relevantsvcs.com, and their current published phone number is (470) 864-4037. Mention The Town Square Podcast for 25% off onboarding. 

Turner is still early in his first term, but he is already stepping into the kind of tough, public-facing decisions that come with city leadership. In this conversation, he talks about his background in public service, what led him to run for office, how his experience in law enforcement shapes his perspective, and why he keeps coming back to a few key themes: transparency, representing the people, protecting Covington’s traditions, and making sure growth doesn’t outpace infrastructure.

From Pennsylvania to Covington

Turner shares that he is not originally from Newton County. He was born in a small town in Pennsylvania south of Pittsburgh, later lived in New York, and then joined the Army. After 11 years of military service and living in different places, he eventually landed in Covington, where he decided to put down roots.

That journey matters because it helps explain how he views public service. Turner comes from a family deeply connected to service-oriented professions. His father served in the military and law enforcement. His mother and grandmother worked in nursing. Other family members served in transportation and public-facing roles. For Turner, service was not some abstract idea. It was modeled for him throughout his life.

That background ultimately led him into law enforcement, which he still describes as his dream job. Today, he works in investigations with the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, a role he says he genuinely loves.

A Neighborhood Mindset That Became a Citywide Campaign

One of the more interesting parts of the conversation is how Turner explains the leap from local neighborhood involvement to elected office. Before serving on city council, he was involved in HOA leadership, where he learned firsthand how quickly neighborhood concerns can pile up. What starts as a few complaints about trash, lawns, or rules can quickly become a full-time exercise in listening, explaining, and solving problems.

Turner sees that experience as meaningful preparation for city government. In both spaces, people want to be heard. They want communication. They want follow-through. And often, they are frustrated not just by the issue itself, but by the feeling that no one is talking to them clearly.

That theme of communication came up repeatedly in the episode. Turner says one of the most surprising things he heard on the campaign trail was that many residents did not even know who represented them. That realization helped sharpen his approach. If he was going to serve, he wanted people to know who he was, how to reach him, and how he was thinking through major votes.

“It’s About People, Not Politics”

One of Turner’s central campaign ideas was that public service should be about people, not politics. In the interview, he unpacks what he means by that phrase.

For him, politics can become about holding a seat, protecting status, or building influence. People-first leadership, by contrast, means listening to the residents who put you in office and trying to act on their behalf. It means not silencing their voices, not hiding behind vague language, and not pretending controversial decisions are easy.

Again and again, Turner describes himself as a representative. He says his role is not to impose his will, but to carry the concerns of the people who elected him. Whether the issue is fireworks, growth, a special use permit, or city fees, he insists that his first obligation is to the residents he serves.

That representative mindset is one of the clearest themes in the conversation.

Transparency as a Core Value

If there was one word that surfaced throughout the episode more than any other, it was transparency.

Turner acknowledges that transparency can sound like a buzzword, but he believes the reason it gets repeated so often is because the public is hungry for it. People want to know what government is doing, why decisions are being made, and what elected leaders actually believe.

He says that desire for openness shaped his campaign and continues to shape his service. That is why he posts updates online. That is why he explains votes publicly. That is why he says he wants people to contact him directly if they have concerns.

In Turner’s view, transparency is not just about releasing information after the fact. It is about bringing people into the process, listening before the vote, and being honest afterward.

Growth, Development, and Infrastructure

Turner also spends significant time discussing one of the biggest issues facing Covington: growth.

He is clear that he is not opposed to development in principle. He understands that growth and economic activity matter. But he is concerned about infrastructure failing to keep pace with the speed of new residential and commercial expansion.

He points specifically to traffic bottlenecks and roads that are already strained, especially in areas where apartment growth and neighborhood expansion are putting pressure on two-lane corridors. He describes situations where residents struggle to get out of their subdivisions because traffic has become so heavy.

For Turner, “smart growth” means slowing down enough for infrastructure to catch up. It means asking whether the roads, intersections, and surrounding systems can actually support the projects being approved. It also means protecting what residents love most about Covington, especially the traditional character centered around the square.

He repeatedly returns to the idea that Covington’s identity is tied to its traditions, and that those traditions should not be sacrificed carelessly in pursuit of rapid expansion.

Preserving the Small-Town Feel

Turner knows Covington is growing and that Newton County is not the same place it was years ago. Still, he says residents continue to value the “small-town charm” of Covington, especially the sense of tradition anchored around downtown.

He does not define that charm simply as a lack of growth. Instead, he describes it more as a culture and a feel — a set of traditions and a way of community life that people do not want to lose.

That is why the square matters so much in his view. It is the symbolic and practical center of Covington. When residents talk about preserving what they love, they are often talking about the experience and identity rooted there.

Stormwater Fees, Taxes, and City Revenue

Another major topic in the episode is Turner’s campaign promise to fight for relief on stormwater fees and taxes.

He explains that one of his core ideas during the campaign was that new city revenue — especially revenue tied to major developments already in motion — should be used to reduce the financial burden on residents where possible. He points specifically to the Amazon data center as a potential revenue source that could help the city rethink how it funds certain services.

Turner’s argument is not that infrastructure costs disappear. His point is that when a city gains a significant new stream of revenue, leaders should ask whether some of that money can be used to eliminate or reduce fees that residents strongly dislike.

He frames this as both a financial and moral question. If the city is going to accept major development that many residents do not necessarily want, then city leaders should work hard to ensure the community meaningfully benefits from it.

He also expresses strong sympathy for seniors and long-time residents who feel increasingly squeezed by taxes and rising costs. In his view, part of leadership is finding creative ways to preserve affordability for the people who helped build the community in the first place.

The Fireworks Debate

One of the most interesting parts of the episode is Turner’s discussion of Covington’s controversial fireworks decision.

Turner makes clear that he values tradition and would prefer to preserve major community events where possible. At the same time, as someone with a law-enforcement background, he also takes public safety seriously.

His perspective is that the issue should not be framed too simply. Rather than assuming the event could not be done safely, he believes the city should consider whether better planning, more experienced event support, or stronger coordination could help improve outcomes. He compares large public gatherings in Covington with major venues that also handle crowd control and safety concerns.

Turner is careful not to dismiss the city’s safety concerns. But he does suggest that if the will exists, leaders should keep searching for solutions before abandoning a long-standing tradition entirely.

That balance — tradition on one hand, public safety on the other — is exactly the kind of messy local issue this podcast is built to explore.

The Tattoo Shop Vote

Another local issue discussed at length is the debated special use permit for a tattoo and piercing studio on the square.

Turner’s comments here reveal the tension that often comes with representative government. He openly admits that his personal view was not strongly opposed to the business itself. He says he does not have a broad philosophical problem with someone opening that kind of business.

But when it came time to vote, he says he felt compelled to follow the wishes expressed by the residents who contacted him. In other words, even though his personal opinion may have leaned one way, he believed his duty as a councilman required him to vote the other way.

That is a revealing moment in the episode. Turner describes it as a real internal struggle. He says he could not vote for himself in that moment; he had to vote for the people he represents.

Whether listeners agree with that vote or not, the conversation offers a rare look at how an elected official thinks through competing pressures: personal opinion, constituent feedback, business opportunity, and community identity.

Law Enforcement and City Leadership

Turner’s law-enforcement background adds an important dimension to the conversation.

He notes that his professional experience gives him a different lens on public safety issues than some other council members may have. Whether discussing ordinances, large events, or city decision-making, he brings a perspective shaped by investigation, accountability, and on-the-ground public service.

At the same time, he pushes back against broad negative narratives about law enforcement. He emphasizes the community-oriented and preventative side of the work, not just the crisis-response side. He also speaks positively about how Newton County residents have treated him as a law-enforcement officer and public servant.

That part of the episode helps listeners understand that Turner is not arriving on council from nowhere. He is bringing a professional framework with him — one built around order, service, and public responsibility.

One Newton

Near the end of the episode, Turner talks about something larger than city politics: the idea of One Newton.

Though he is a city councilman, he says he does not want to treat the city and county like enemies or isolated camps. In his view, Covington matters, but so do Oxford, Porterdale, Mansfield, Newborn, and the rest of the county. He believes local leaders should still think broadly about Newton County as a shared community.

That perspective fits well with the larger mission of The Town Square Podcast. It also gives listeners a better sense of how Turner sees his role — not just as a city official, but as part of the wider civic life of Newton County.

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Councilman Dwayne Turner comes across as energetic, direct, and deeply committed to constituent representation. He is still new to office, but he is clearly thinking hard about the responsibilities of public service.

He emphasizes transparency. He values tradition. He wants infrastructure to catch up with growth. He is looking for ways to ease burdens on residents. And he is trying, in his words and actions, to vote with the people he represents in mind.

Whether listeners agree with him on every issue or not, this conversation gives them something valuable: a chance to hear how one of Covington’s newest elected officials thinks, serves, and wrestles with the real tensions of local leadership.

⸻

How to Contact Councilman Dwayne Turner

Councilman Dwayne Turner invited residents to reach out directly.

Facebook: Councilman Dwayne Turner

Email: Turner30014@yahoo.com

Phone: 516-439-1018

⸻

Sponsors / Advertisers Featured in This Episode

SCB Construction Group

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Dr. Adam Phyall, a longtime educator and former Director of Technology and Media Services for Newton County Schools, joins the show as the first guest in the Candidate Conversations series. Now running for the District 5 seat on the Newton County Board of Education, Dr. Phyall brings decades of classroom, district, and national education experience to the conversation.

But before discussing policy or campaign platforms, the conversation begins where it always does on The Town Square Podcast — with story.

From Tutoring Classmates to Teaching Students

Dr. Phyall didn’t originally set out to become a teacher.

While attending Tuskegee University, he began tutoring fellow students in math. What started as a simple act of helping others quickly revealed something deeper.

He discovered joy.

Not the kind of satisfaction that comes from personal achievement, but the fulfillment that comes from watching someone else succeed.

That moment changed everything.

Instead of pursuing occupational therapy, he shifted his focus to education — eventually earning a degree in general science education and beginning his teaching career in 2002.

That decision would shape the rest of his professional life.

Finding a Home in Newton County

After several years teaching in Clayton County, Dr. Phyall and his wife began searching for a place to raise their family.

They found it in Covington.

He described the community as a “Hallmark town” — the kind of place where families could grow roots, build relationships, and invest in the future.

In 2006, he joined the staff at Alcovy High School, where he taught biology, chemistry, and other science courses.

His favorite students?

Juniors.

Not because they were easier to teach, but because they were beginning to understand life.

That transitional moment — when students start thinking seriously about their future — became one of the most rewarding parts of his work.

The Moment Technology Changed Everything

One of the most powerful stories in the episode centers on a laptop.

While in college, Dr. Phyall received a scholarship from the United Negro College Fund. Along with financial support, the scholarship included something that would alter the trajectory of his career:

A computer.

At the time, his mother was battling breast cancer. That laptop allowed him to stay connected with her, research medical information, and communicate in ways that hadn’t previously been possible.

It wasn’t just technology.

It was connection.

That experience shaped his understanding of what technology could do — not as a replacement for teaching, but as a tool to make learning more meaningful and accessible.

Innovation in the Classroom

Years before podcasting became mainstream, Dr. Phyall was already experimenting with new ways to engage students.

In the early 2000s, he introduced podcasting into his classroom — encouraging students to create audio content explaining biology concepts.

The project quickly became a success.

One student discovered that listeners from Ireland had downloaded their podcast.

That single moment changed the way students saw themselves.

Their voices mattered.

Their work reached beyond the classroom.

And their learning suddenly felt real.

Leading the One-to-One Technology Initiative

As his career progressed, Dr. Phyall transitioned into district leadership roles, eventually becoming Director of Technology and Media Services for Newton County Schools.

One of his most significant contributions during that time was helping lead the district’s transition to a one-to-one technology model — providing every student with access to a digital device.

The decision wasn’t easy.

It required careful planning, financial discipline, and long-term vision.

But the result was transformative.

Students gained access to resources that had previously been limited to computer labs or libraries.

Teachers gained new tools for instruction.

And the district built a foundation for future innovation.

A National Perspective on Education

After years serving Newton County Schools, Dr. Phyall accepted a position with Future Ready Schools, part of the national education organization All4Ed.

In this role, he works with school systems across the country — helping districts improve technology integration, expand access to resources, and prepare students for the workforce of the future.

Despite working at the national level, he remains deeply connected to Newton County.

He still collaborates with district staff, shares best practices, and advocates for opportunities that benefit local students.

Why Run for the Board of Education?

For years, Dr. Phyall had considered serving on the Board of Education.

But it wasn’t until recently that the opportunity aligned with his sense of timing and purpose.

He described the decision as deeply personal — shaped in part by a cancer diagnosis that forced him to reevaluate his priorities.

Rather than waiting for the future, he chose to act.

In his words:

“We’re the ones we’ve been waiting for.”

His Platform: The Three A’s

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Phyall repeatedly returned to a simple framework that defines his campaign:

Access

Accountability

Action

These three principles guide his vision for the district.

Access

Ensuring every student has the resources and opportunities needed to succeed — regardless of background.

Accountability

Maintaining transparency in budgeting and decision-making.

Action

Identifying what works, eliminating what doesn’t, and continuously improving.

Supporting Teachers and Staff

One of the most consistent themes in the conversation was the importance of people.

Dr. Phyall emphasized that student success ultimately depends on the adults who serve them.

Teachers.

Bus drivers.

Custodians.

Support staff.

Creating a culture where employees feel valued and supported, he said, is essential for improving retention and performance.

Technology and the Future of Learning

The conversation also explored one of the most pressing questions facing education today:

How should schools balance technology use with traditional learning?

Dr. Phyall believes the answer lies in intentional use.

Technology should enhance learning — not replace it.

He stressed that devices are tools, not solutions.

Real progress comes from strong instruction, engaged teachers, and supportive communities.

Artificial Intelligence and Education

Artificial intelligence was another major topic.

Rather than viewing AI as a threat, Dr. Phyall sees it as an opportunity — provided students learn how to use it responsibly.

He encouraged families and educators to focus on critical thinking and curiosity.

Not just asking questions.

But asking better questions.

A Vision for Newton County Schools

Ultimately, Dr. Phyall’s vision is simple:

Make Newton County Schools the best place for students to learn and families to live.

He wants the district to become known for:

• Strong academics
• Career readiness
• Supportive teachers
• Safe learning environments
• Community pride

And he believes that vision starts with collaboration.

Final Thoughts

This episode marks the beginning of the Candidate Conversations series — an effort to give voters direct access to the people seeking to serve their community.

Whether listeners agree or disagree with a candidate’s positions, the goal remains the same:

Create space for thoughtful dialogue.

Encourage informed decisions.

And strengthen the community through conversation.

Because at the end of the day, public service isn’t about politics.

It’s about people.

Episode Sponsors:

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On Episode 76 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Michelle Norrington and Monica Banks, the co-founders and executive directors of Building Strong Futures. The conversation explores how a small idea that began in church nearly 25 years ago grew into a transformative nonprofit organization helping young people prepare for leadership, careers, and college.

Recently named 2026 Organization of the Year by the Newton County Chamber of Commerce, BSF continues to expand its impact through leadership workshops, career development opportunities, and life-changing college tours.

But behind the programs and recognition is a simple mission: expose young people to possibilities they may never have imagined for themselves.

From Church Program to Community Movement

Like many meaningful initiatives, Building Strong Futures began with a simple observation.

Michelle Norrington was watching her teenage daughter and noticing something many parents eventually recognize: teenagers often reach the end of high school without truly understanding what comes next.

They may not know how to prepare for college, how to present themselves professionally, or even basic etiquette and leadership skills.

Michelle brought the idea to her friend Monica Banks.

Together, they launched a small program at their church called Building Strong Women.

Their goal was straightforward: teach young women leadership, confidence, etiquette, and life preparation through classes and mentorship.

The program quickly gained traction.

What began with a few girls at church grew into something much larger.

Soon other churches and families across Newton County began asking to participate.

Before long, they were organizing leadership classes, etiquette workshops, and an annual cotillion to celebrate the growth and development of the students involved.

The response was immediate.

And the mission began expanding.

Why the Program Expanded to Include Young Men

By 2015, Michelle and Monica noticed something important.

Parents of boys began asking a simple question:

“When are you going to include our sons?”

At the same time, the founders saw a growing need across the community—not just for etiquette training but for college exposure, leadership development, and career guidance for both boys and girls.

So the organization evolved.

Building Strong Women became Building Strong Futures, opening its programs to all students and expanding its mission to focus on broader youth development.

The name change reflected a deeper vision.

They weren’t just mentoring individuals.

They were building futures—plural.

And they were doing it one student at a time.

What Building Strong Futures Actually Does

Today, Building Strong Futures operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving students across Newton County and the broader metro Atlanta region.

The organization focuses on three core experiences:

Leadership Workshops

Each year begins with a series of workshops designed to prepare students for adulthood.

Topics include:

• Financial literacy
• College admissions preparation
• Professional image and presentation
• Career exploration
• Parent information sessions
• Student leadership panels

Local professionals volunteer their time to speak with students, offering real-world insight into careers and life beyond high school.

For many students, it’s the first time they hear directly from professionals about what different career paths actually look like.

Career Development

The program intentionally exposes students to a wide range of careers.

Not every student will go to college—and the founders acknowledge that openly.

Students may pursue:

• College degrees
• Trade programs
• Entrepreneurship
• Technical careers

The key message is simple:

“Find something you love and pursue it.”

By introducing students to professionals from many industries, the program helps them imagine futures they may never have considered.

The Annual College Tour

Perhaps the most powerful component of Building Strong Futures is the annual college tour.

Each year, students travel to visit multiple universities, experiencing campus life firsthand.

These trips include visits to both:

• HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)
• PWIs (Predominantly White Institutions)

This intentional exposure helps students explore different academic environments and determine which setting might best fit their goals.

Recent tours have included visits to schools such as:

• Duke University
• Hampton University
• Xavier University of Louisiana
• Columbia University
• NYU
• Medgar Evers College

For many students, these trips are their first time flying on a plane.

Sometimes it’s their first time leaving Georgia.

And occasionally, it’s the first time they’ve ever stepped onto a college campus.

Exposure Changes Everything

One of the most powerful themes throughout the episode is the idea of exposure.

Many students simply don’t know what options exist.

Michelle describes how some participants begin the program unsure whether college is even possible.

But once they step onto a campus—seeing the size, the resources, and the possibilities—their perspective begins to shift.

One student who once had no plans for college now attends Ole Miss studying pharmacy.

Another student discovered a welding program at Georgia Southern University and enrolled there after the tour.

These moments are what keep the founders motivated.

They see students realize something profound:

Their future can be bigger than they imagined.

Building Leaders Who Give Back

One of the most encouraging aspects of Building Strong Futures is what happens after students complete the program.

Many return to help guide the next generation.

In fact, three current board members are former students who went through the original program.

They now help lead the organization and mentor new participants.

Students also return to speak during workshops, sharing their experiences and advice with younger participants.

This cycle of mentorship is intentional.

The founders want students not only to succeed—but to help others succeed as well.

Overcoming the Biggest Barrier: Cost

Despite the program’s success, one of the greatest challenges facing students today is financial access.

College is expensive.

Travel is expensive.

And many families simply cannot afford opportunities like college tours.

That’s why donations are so critical to the organization’s mission.

Every dollar raised goes directly back into the program—helping lower costs for families.

Michelle and Monica emphasize that no one on the board takes a salary.

Everything they do is driven by passion for the community and the students they serve.

Because of generous donations in past years, the organization was able to take 35 students to New York for just $250 per student, covering flights, lodging, and even some meals.

Without funding support, that simply wouldn’t be possible.

A Well-Deserved Honor

This year, the Newton County Chamber of Commerce named Building Strong Futures its 2026 Organization of the Year.

Among more than 700 Chamber-member businesses and organizations, BSF stood out for its long-term commitment to developing young people.

For Michelle and Monica, the award was both surprising and deeply meaningful.

When they started the program at church two decades ago, they never imagined it would grow into something recognized across the entire community.

But the recognition reflects what many families already know:

Building Strong Futures is changing lives.

Looking Toward the Futur

As the organization approaches its 25th anniversary, the founders are thinking carefully about what comes next.

Their hope is that future leaders—especially former students—will continue the work.

The vision is not centered on one generation.

It’s about creating something that outlives them.

Michelle describes it this way:

“We want someone who went through the program to one day lead the tour and carry it forward.”

If that happens, Building Strong Futures will have achieved exactly what its name promises.

Not just strong students.

But strong futures for generations to come.

How You Can Support Building Strong Futures

Building Strong Futures welcomes community support in several ways.

Financial Donations

Donations help reduce costs for students participating in workshops and college tours.

Professional Mentorship

Local professionals are invited to volunteer their expertise by speaking during workshops.

Event Participation

Community members can support the organization by attending fundraising events.

Upcoming Events

BSF Annual Golf Tournament

📍 Cherokee Run Golf Club

📅 May 22

💲 $400 per team | $125 individual

BSF Annual Gala

📍 Georgia Piedmont Technical College

📅 September 19

🎟 Dress-to-impress fundraising event recognizing community partners and supporters

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Building Strong Futures Website

https://www.build3strongfutures.org

Building Strong Futures Facebook

(Search: Building Strong Futures)

Building Strong Futures Instagram

(Search: Building Strong Futures)

Sponsors

The Town Square Podcast is made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors.

Luther Rice College and Seminary

Website: https://www.lutherrice.edu

What they do: Accredited, biblically grounded Christian education—100% online—including dual enrollment, undergraduate degrees, certificate programs, and doctorate-level study. Built for students and working adults who want education shaped by a Christian worldview.

Whether you’re a student exploring dual enrollment, an adult learner deepening biblical knowledge, or a professional seeking leadership development—Luther Rice offers flexible, fully-online programs designed for your calling. Visit lutherrice.edu.

Main Street Land & Properties

Helping individuals and families navigate land and property investments with integrity and expertise.

Website: https://www.mslap.com

But if you think this episode is simply about an award, think again.

Dr. Morrow represents something much bigger than a title. Her classroom is a place where entrepreneurship is born, where students learn real-world skills most adults wish they had learned earlier, and where relationships, not textbooks, are the foundation of meaningful education.

In a wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Morrow shares her journey from business professional to educator, how she brings real-world marketing into the classroom, and why relationships are the single most powerful tool a teacher can have.

And if you listen closely, you’ll hear something else too: a hopeful story about the future of Newton County’s students.

From the Business World to the Classroom

Dr. Morrow didn’t initially plan on becoming a teacher.

Her first dream was to pursue a career in business. But during high school, one teacher made a lasting impact on her life: her 11th-grade business teacher, Ms. Marshall.

That teacher inspired her to consider education, but the realities of teacher salaries pushed her toward the corporate world instead. After earning her degree in business, Dr. Morrow took a job in finance at Wells Fargo.

But it didn’t take long for her to realize something important.

“This is not for me.”

She attended a job fair in Newton County Schools—and was hired on the spot.

She originally planned to teach for just one year while figuring out her next steps.

Nineteen years later, she’s still teaching.

And changing lives.

A Defining Moment in 2016

Like many educators, Dr. Morrow’s journey hasn’t always been easy.

In 2016, after losing her father, she reached a point where she wasn’t sure what the next chapter of her life should look like. She had even signed a contract to move to China to teach.

Her visa had been approved. Everything was ready.

But a close friend challenged her to reflect on whether she was pursuing the opportunity or simply trying to run away from grief.

After prayer and reflection, Dr. Morrow sent an email declining the position.

That same night, she received an unexpected email from Luella High School offering her an interview—even though she had never applied.

She got the job.

For Dr. Morrow, that moment reaffirmed something she had already begun to realize:

She was exactly where she was meant to be.

The Power of Real-World Learning

Dr. Morrow teaches marketing—but her classroom is far from a traditional lecture environment.

Her students learn through real-world application.

Every year, her classes develop an entire business from the ground up. Students create business plans, develop branding, build websites, manufacture products, and ultimately sell those products through pop-up shops.

This year alone, some students generated hundreds—even thousands—of dollars in revenue through their projects.

But Dr. Morrow teaches them an even more important lesson.

Revenue isn’t the same thing as profit.

“If you made $1,000 but spent $900,” she tells them, “you didn’t make $1,000. You made $100.”

Those are lessons many adults learn the hard way. Her students are learning them in high school.

Entrepreneurship in Action

One of Dr. Morrow’s former students, Jordan Jackson, launched a clothing brand as part of the class’s final project.

His brand—BLXCK Clothing Co.—stood for Bold Leadership Through Creative Knowledge.

The project gained traction through a Shark Tank-style presentation where investors helped him fund equipment for the business.

Jordan continued selling his clothing line even after enrolling at North Carolina A&T.

And he’s not the only one.

Students in Dr. Morrow’s classes have launched baking businesses, apparel brands, and other entrepreneurial ventures.

The goal is simple:

Let students experiment with business ideas while the stakes are still low.

“I would rather you make the mistakes here,” she says, “than in the real world.”

The Speaker Series That Brings the World to Alcovy

Perhaps the most unique element of Dr. Morrow’s classroom is her speaker series.

Every week, she reaches out to entrepreneurs, professionals, and influencers to speak with her students.

The process is not easy.

Every Monday she sends around 150 emails.

On a good week, two people respond.

But over time, persistence built relationships—and now speakers often reach out to her asking when they can visit the class.

The result is remarkable exposure for students.

Her classroom has hosted 180 to 190 speakers each year, including

·      Small business owners

·      Media personalities

·      Entrepreneurs

·      Corporate professionals

·      Influencers

·      Athletes

Students get to hear firsthand what success looks like—and what it actually takes to get there.

And often, those speakers return year after year so students can watch their businesses evolve.

Why Relationships Matter

When Dr. Morrow reflects on her growth as a teacher, one theme stands above everything else: relationships.

Early in her career she focused primarily on teaching content.

Today, she focuses on developing people.

She meets students where they are, not where she expects them to be.

“Kids just want to be seen,” she says.

“They want to be heard. They want to feel valued.”

Once that relationship is built, something remarkable happens.

Students engage.

They work harder.

They believe in themselves.

And the learning follows.

Teaching Life Skills That Matter

Dr. Morrow’s marketing class teaches much more than advertising or branding.

Students learn practical life skills many adults never formally learn, including:

·      Public speaking

·      Professional presentation skills

·      Time management

·      Financial literacy

·      Mock interviews

·      Professional attire

·      Team collaboration

·      Business planning

·      Profit and loss analysis

She even teaches students how to write checks, balance accounts, and understand credit card statements.

Why?

Because those skills still matter in the real world.

“Everything isn’t Cash App,” she tells them.

The Role of Technology and AI

Dr. Morrow is also preparing students for the rapidly changing future of work.

Artificial intelligence is already transforming industries, including marketing.

But instead of discouraging its use, she teaches students how to use AI as a tool—not a crutch.

AI can generate ideas.

But human creativity still has to shape them.

That balance between technology and human thinking is exactly what employers are looking for today.

Branding: The Lesson That Starts on Day One

One of Dr. Morrow’s favorite lessons happens on the very first day of class.

She asks a student wearing a Nike hoodie to come to the front of the room.

Then she asks how much they paid for it.

Usually around $70.

She then asks how many students in the room like the hoodie.

When half the class raises their hands, she multiplies the value.

Suddenly Nike has made thousands of dollars worth of advertising inside that classroom.

Then she asks the question:

“How much did Nike pay you to wear it?”

The answer, of course, is nothing.

The students realize they are walking billboards.

And just like that, the first marketing lesson begins.

Students Are Their Own Brand

One of Dr. Morrow’s central messages is that every student is their own brand.

How they dress.

How they communicate.

How they present themselves.

All of it sends a message.

That message can open doors—or close them.

So, she teaches students to be intentional about how they represent themselves.

Because branding isn’t just something companies do.

It’s something people do every day.

The Pressure Facing Today’s Students

Despite the excitement and innovation happening in classrooms, Dr. Morrow is also deeply aware of the challenges facing today’s students.

One word summarizes it.

Pressure.

Academic expectations are high, but social media adds an entirely new layer of comparison and anxiety.

Students often measure their lives against carefully curated highlight reels online.

Dr. Morrow reminds them that social media rarely reflects reality.

The luxury cars, expensive bags, and glamorous lifestyles they see online often come with unseen realities.

Helping students separate reality from illusion is part of preparing them for adulthood.

Representing Newton County as Teacher of the Year

Being named Newton County Teacher of the Year carries a special responsibility.

Dr. Morrow now represents more than 1,500 educators across the district.

For her, the role is about advocacy.

It’s about speaking on behalf of teachers and students who are working hard every day to create opportunities for young people.

And it’s about reminding the community of something important.

Teachers are not the enemy.

They are partners.

They are mentors.

They are advocates for children.

And they are doing the best they can with the resources available.

A Message for the Community

When asked what message she would share with the community if she had a megaphone in the middle of the Town Square, Dr. Morrow didn’t hesitate.

“We are not the enemy.”

Teachers care deeply about the students they serve.

They want what every parent wants: for children to succeed.

Education works best when schools, families, businesses, churches, and the broader community all work together.

It truly takes a village.

Why This Conversation Matters

At its heart, this episode is about something bigger than marketing or even education.

It’s about investment.

Investment in young people.

Investment in relationships.

Investment in the future of Newton County.

If Dr. Morrow’s classroom is any indication, that future is bright.

Contact & Links

Follow Dr. Quinita Morrow’s Marketing Class:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dr.morrowmarketingclass/

Sponsors

Relevant IT Services

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📞 Phone: 470-864-4037

🌐 Website: https://relevantitservices.com

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SCB Construction Group / SteelCo Buildings

SteelCo Buildings supplies high-quality pre-engineered metal building systems nationwide for commercial, agricultural, and industrial projects.

From design to permitting to delivery, their team helps customers build with confidence.

🌐 Website: https://steelcobuildings.com

Debbie Harper comes back into the studio for her second appearance on The Town Square Podcast, and right out of the gate she re-anchors something people still confuse: the Chamber of Commerce is not government. The Chamber is a member-driven organization—which means it works “at the pleasure of the members,” advocating for the business community from the largest industries all the way down to the smallest mom-and-pop operation.

That distinction matters because the Chamber’s job isn’t to pass ordinances or levy taxes. Its job is influence, connection, advocacy, programming, and building the kind of civic/business ecosystem where Newton County can thrive long-term.

And in 2026, Debbie says the Chamber has momentum.

75 Years Strong and Growing Past 700 Members

One of the coolest headline moments in this conversation is the reminder that the Newton County Chamber is celebrating75 years—established in 1951, with roots tracing back to the Newton County Trade Association.

And the modern Chamber isn’t some tiny networking club. Debbie shares that the Chamber topped 700 members last year—representing roughly 25,000 to 28,000 employees connected to those businesses. That’s a huge “voice” in a county our size, and Debbie makes the point clearly: this many members means the Chamber carries real influence—not by flexing authority, but by convening people and pushing coordinated priorities.

Trey even laughs about it from the perspective of being a small LLC himself: The Town Square Podcast joined the Chamber at the end of last year and is now stepping into Chamber 101 (yes—Debbie had the date ready).

Who the Chamber Serves (Hint: It’s Not Just Small Business)

Debbie breaks down the range of membership in a way that makes the Chamber feel more “whole community” than many folks realize:

• Small businesses (the majority—often defined as 120 employees or fewer)
• Large industries and major employers
• Nonprofits
• Faith-based organizations/churches
• Associate members (individuals)

And she notes a cultural trend that’s been growing: larger employers increasingly want to pour back into the communities where they operate—through grants, sponsorships, volunteer hours, nonprofit partnerships, and intentional local engagement. In the conversation, Meta gets mentioned as an example of major industry support showing up in tangible ways (like grants and community investments).

The underlying theme: you don’t get a healthy small business ecosystem without stable large employers—and large employers need a healthy local community to attract and keep talent. It’s cyclical.

Practical Benefits That Make Membership Worth It

Debbie highlights something a lot of business owners don’t know: Chamber membership isn’t just “events and networking.” There are practical programs that can have real financial impact.

Two examples she mentions:

• Georgia Drug-Free Workplace Program (when certified, businesses may qualify for a state-mandated discount on workers’ comp—Debbie cites 7.5% off).
• Healthcare options for small businesses, including a partnership pathway connected with the Georgia Chamber and Blue Cross Blue Shield for certain business sizes.

That’s the Chamber at its best: not just rah-rah speeches, but real support tools that help businesses survive and grow.

How the Chamber is Led (and Why Board Restructuring Matters)

Debbie explains the Chamber’s governance structure and mentions a board restructuring over the past year designed to make leadership more representative of Newton County’s diverse business landscape.

Key highlights:

• A smaller executive committee structure
• A broader at-large board to ensure big industry + small business + multiple sectors are represented

That’s a subtle but important leadership move: if your membership base is diverse, your leadership should reflect that diversity—otherwise you’ll unintentionally prioritize the loudest voices rather than the most representative voices.

Networking Isn’t “Extra”—It’s the Work

The Chamber calendar is packed, and Debbie acknowledges the strain: a small staff producing a full menu of events. But the strategy is intentional—different events serve different business types, schedules, and stages.

Lunch Links (monthly)

A structured networking lunch with either:

• pure networking, or
• a speaker/program (February features a motivational speaker focused on decision-making in business).

After Hours (quarterly, returning trend)

Debbie notes Newton County used to be more of a “bedroom community,” but that’s shifting. More people are working and staying local, so after-hours events are making sense again.

• The first after-hours of 2026 is at Render: Turner Lake (Feb. 19).

Signature Events (the big ones)

Debbie frames several major “anchors” on the Chamber calendar:

• Pre-Legislative Breakfast (January)
• Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet (the one everyone talks about)
• Business Summit & Expo (March 26)
• Chamber Golf Tournament (April 30)
• Membership Appreciation (Fall)
• Think and Thrive (Women’s event—consistently sells out)

The theme here is simple: the Chamber builds a rhythm of connection, celebration, training, and advocacy.

Business Summit & Expo: Why You Should Go

Trey gives a great personal testimonial here because he attended last year and came away genuinely impressed. He describes the “expo” feel with vendors (where you find businesses you didn’t know existed), but also the breakout sessions where business owners share real strategies and lessons—more like peer mentorship than a formal seminar.

Debbie previews 2026:

• March 26
• Hosted at Georgia Piedmont Technical College
• Breakouts + keynote + practical sessions (including an AI class led by Meta)
• Panel content leaning toward marketing and branding this year

And Trey’s endorsement lands: if you’re a business owner, you will walk out with things you can actually use.

Legislative Breakfast: Business Advocacy Without Partisan Politics

This part matters for The Town Square Podcast audience because it hits your “messy middle” mission: how do you engage policy without becoming partisan?

Debbie describes the legislative breakfast as more “fireside chat” than political rally. The Chamber does have legislative priorities, but the posture is practical: what helps Newton County remain a strong place to do business while maintaining quality of life?

A few key takeaways:

• The Chamber partnered with the school system to share legislative priorities together.
• Discussion included the current buzz around state income tax ideas, with Debbie pointing out the tension: taxes don’t disappear—they shift.
• The Chamber has also been vocal on local issues like housing, and Debbie references work around the development ordinance updates (UDOs).

One of the best “real life” moments here is Debbie describing the Chamber helping a plumber with a local issue like parking his work vehicle at home. That’s not headline-grabbing politics—it’s practical advocacy that removes friction for small business.

Housing, Growth, and the “Tension to Be Managed”

This section turns into one of Trey’s best analogies in the episode: growth isn’t simply a problem to solve, it’s a tension to manage.

Debbie acknowledges:

• Newton County needs updated ordinances (some dating back decades).
• Moratoriums and slowdowns can create ripple effects—especially in construction trades and local contractors.
• Housing conversations keep coming back to “missing middle” inventory and cost drivers (she references “location, land, and lumber” as big factors).

The point: everybody wants quality of life. But quality of life requires a healthy local economy, and a healthy economy requires managed growth—not zero growth or runaway growth.

The Highlight: Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Recap

If you’ve never been, Trey makes the case: the Chamber’s Annual Meeting feels like a small-town version of a major awards show—high production value, a room full of leaders, and a genuine sense of community pride.

Debbie gives major credit to:

• OHCO District for hosting
• The behind-the-scenes AV/marketing pros (ONYX Media & Dualdeko) who make it feel “big league”
• Student involvement (centerpieces, jazz band, etc.)

And then we get into the awards—this is where the episode becomes a “who’s who” snapshot of local impact.

Award Winners & Why They Matter (as discussed)

• Minority Business Award: Ayanna Ford-Bogan (State Farm) — recognized for community involvement and leadership growth.
• Legacy Business Award: The Covington News — for longevity and staying power (with mention of deep community roots).
• Community Impact Award: APCU — for jumping into community sponsorships and a culture of employee volunteerism.
• Nonprofit of the Year: Building Strong Futures — recognized for student support, college pathway guidance, and real-life impact (including nominations from students they’ve helped).
• Ambassador of the Year: Sierra Curry (BizzyBee Exterminators) — highlighted for serving as an “extension” of Chamber staff and championing membership engagement.
• Chairman’s Champion Award: Thomas & Hutton — the “silent partner” engineering firm behind many major projects and master plans.
• Small Business Award: Keenan Media — deeply involved, highly visible, consistent Chamber supporters.
• Deal of the Year: Process Equipment & Controls (PEC) / Ryan Loewe — a strong local expansion story and a reminder that “local wins” matter.
• R.O. Arnold Award: Sam & Loucy Hay — described as legacy-level recipients who embody service, humility, and long-term community commitment.

This part of the episode isn’t just a celebration—it’s a lens into what the Chamber values: business excellence, community service, nonprofit impact, behind-the-scenes infrastructure work, and long-term leadership.

What’s Next: Vision Work + A Chamber Foundation

Debbie shares one of the biggest forward-looking updates: the Chamber is working on visionary planning and exploring the launch of a 501(c)(3) foundation connected to the Chamber.

Why?

Because some community issues need long-range effort and funding streams that aren’t always a fit for the Chamber’s traditional membership model.

One of the biggest focus areas she names:

• Workforce development
• Talent attraction + retention
• Relocation and keeping more Newton County residents working in Newton County

Trey mentions a stat he’s heard before: tens of thousands of residents leave the county daily for work. Debbie ties that reality to a smart strategy: if you can connect local people to local jobs, you improve commutes, strengthen the tax base, and reduce pressure to build endlessly.

And then, of course, there’s the shadow on the horizon: Rivian and the ripple effects of major employment growth.

More Advocacy: Governmental Affairs + DC Fly-In

Debbie also previews a more formal structure for advocacy: establishing a governmental affairs committee and reviving a DC fly-in (timed with broader Georgia Chamber efforts) to keep local business priorities in front of state and federal leaders.

The point isn’t politics. The point is making sure Newton County’s economic development needs—and the policies that affect them—don’t drift off the radar.

Quick Hits: What’s Coming Up (Mark Your Calendar)

Debbie runs through the upcoming calendar highlights:

• Business Summit & Expo: March 26
• Chamber Golf Tournament: April 30 (Ashton Hills)
• Think and Thrive: sells out consistently (plan early)
• Membership Appreciation (Fall): theme-based, community-building event

These are the kinds of moments that pull the business community into the same room—and that’s often where partnerships, hiring, sponsorships, and nonprofit support start.

A Timely Push: Shop Local (Especially Right Now)

Near the end, Debbie drops a super practical message: recent weather weekends hurt restaurants, retailers, and service businesses—and January is already slow.

Her call to action:

• Visit your favorite local spots
• Buy gift cards (Valentine’s Day is an easy excuse)
• Spend where your heart lives

She also mentions the Chamber’s discount initiative:

• “Shop Local, Save Local” — a discount/coupon program promoted through the Chamber. 

Business Buzz: Town Center, New Spaces, and What’s Moving

Debbie addresses a circulating Town Center graphic and clarifies what’s confirmed:

• Target is confirmed
• Other rumored names are still in negotiations (as of the conversation)

They also talk about:

• A new event space opening on/near the square (name still being finalized in the conversation)
• Billy’s Bites (sandwich/soup shoutout—red pepper gouda soup and grilled pimento cheese get the hype)
• Fuel Films growing into new space and expanding concepts (including a taproom/biergarten vibe in the broader Ramsey building area)

It’s a fun “local intel” segment that reminds listeners: things are moving in Newton County.

Final Word: How to Keep Up With the Chamber

Debbie gives the simple answer: the best way to stay in the loop is the Chamber’s emails (Tuesday update + Friday “virtual water cooler”), plus the Chamber website and social channels. 

And Trey ends where he started: if you own a business—or you care about Newton County’s quality of life—you should pay attention to the Chamber calendar, show up, and plug in.

Links Mentioned in the Episode (Show Notes)

• Newton County Chamber of Commerce website (events, membership info, newsletter signup) 
• Chamber business directory / member listings 
• Shop Local, Save Local (discount program info + participating businesses) 

Debbie Harper / Chamber Contact Info

Newton County Chamber of Commerce

2100 Washington St. SW, Covington, GA 30014 • (770) 786-7510 

General email: info@newtonchamber.com 

Sponsors

Relevant IT Services

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SCB Construction Group – SteelCo Buildings

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Affordability.

It’s not a trendy political slogan anymore. It’s a pressure point. A real-life math problem families are trying to solve every month: rent, groceries, utilities, gas, childcare… and now, depending on where you live, fees you didn’t even know existed until the bill showed up.

That’s why this episode matters

In our first recording of 2026, we sat down with Covington City Councilwoman Charika Davis, fresh off a reelection campaign and stepping into her second term. And she didn’t come in with polished talking points. She came in with something you can feel through the mic—conviction, fatigue, gratitude… and a genuine desire to be the kind of public servant who doesn’t forget what it’s like to live on a budget.

“I made it to 2026.”

That’s how Charika answers our opening “what’s good in your world?” question—and it sets the tone.

2025 was a grind. She describes the reality of running for reelection while still doing the job: door knocking, listening sessions, community events, and all the invisible emotional weight that comes with being the person people call when they’re frustrated.

And here’s the part that’s easy to overlook if you’ve never run for office:

Even at the city level, where government feels “closer,” you still can’t promise the world.

Charika says it plainly: “I’m one vote.”

That sentence comes up again and again throughout the conversation, because it explains one of the biggest misunderstandings residents often have about local government. People assume a councilmember has executive power—can hire, fire, fix everything, and change policy with a snap. But as Charika explains, the city manager runs operations: staffing, HR, internal processes, and day-to-day execution. Councilmembers vote on policy, budget priorities, and direction—but they’re not the CEO.

And that misunderstanding gets messy fast when emotions are high.

Why she ran again: “There was still work that needed to be done.”

This was her second race, and she had an opponent again—something she describes as humbling.

Not because she doubts her work, but because campaigning forces you to face the truth: you can do a hundred good things and still lose. You have to show up, ask for trust, and take the risk publicly.

So why do it again?

Charika’s answer comes back to one theme: advocating for working- and middle-class residents—especially when the costs of living rise faster than people’s paychecks. She talks openly about the fear many residents have: that they’ll be priced out of the city they call home.

And she admits something interesting: during her first term campaign, she was advised to avoid the affordability conversation. It was treated like a “code word,” something that might be interpreted as only relevant to certain socioeconomic groups.

But now? She says you can’t avoid it.

If you’re going to claim you’re “for the people,” you have to talk about what people are actually carrying.

The other side of Charika: corporate America, quiet mornings, and soft skills

A lot of folks only know Charika from council meetings and civic debates. But she shares a snapshot of her day-to-day life outside council—working in corporate America (now from home), starting her mornings slowly, and valuing a calmer pace than the old “rat race” schedule.

That contrast becomes important later, because she makes a point that’s easy to miss:

Serving on council doesn’t feel like “work” to her.

It’s purpose. It’s passion. It’s giving back.

And that makes late meetings, community events, and phone calls feel different than a normal job—even when they’re exhausting.

When we ask what she learned from her corporate career that translates into public service, she goes straight to something schools rarely teach directly:

Soft skills.

·      How to handle high-stakes situations.

·      How to communicate without detonating relationships.

·      How to control emotion when the moment is intense.

And if you’ve ever watched a public meeting on a hot-button issue, you already know why that matters.

Born and raised here—and proud of it

Charika is Covington through and through: born at the local hospital, raised on Oxford Road, Newton High, and a childhood that included the movie theater, the skating rink, and the kind of community identity that sticks with you.

She talks about how her early involvement in student leadership, her time at Georgia College, and her connection to service through Delta Sigma Theta shaped her mindset: be the voice for people who feel unheard.

She even answers the “why didn’t you leave?” question in the most honest way possible:

She stayed because she didn’t want to pay rent.

It’s funny, but it’s also quietly profound—because it’s a reminder that many of the “big” life decisions are shaped by very practical realities. And that’s a theme that keeps surfacing all episode long.

How she got into politics: a mentor, a family push, and a legacy transition

Charika explains that she didn’t wake up one day and decide to run. A family member—Councilman Morgan, her cousin—encouraged her after a funeral. That conversation led to a connection with a respected community figure and mentor, Hani Thea Williams, who served for years and helped Charika learn the ropes before stepping away.

That kind of transition matters. Local leadership is often less about ideology and more about mentorship, relationships, and trust built over time.

“People think we have more power than we really do.”

This might be the most important civic education line in the whole episode.

Charika describes taking calls from city employees early on—complaints about workplace issues—and having to explain she didn’t control HR outcomes. She wasn’t the boss. She couldn’t “fix” personnel matters.

Her job, as she sees it, is to:

• listen to residents,
• advocate where policy can help,
• make calls to connect issues to the right department,
• and vote based on what’s fair and workable.

She can help get your trash picked up.

She can help push a concern to the right staff.

But she can’t magically install a stop sign overnight just because someone wants it.

That’s not an excuse—it’s the structure. And understanding the structure is the difference between frustration and productive engagement.

The stormwater conversation: “Paying for the rain” (and why people were angry)

Then we hit the topic that lit up a lot of community conversation: stormwater billing.

If you’ve never dug into stormwater, you’re not alone. Charika admits she didn’t understand it before homeownership either. But the concept is simple in theory:

When rain hits roofs, driveways, streets, and parking lots, it has to go somewhere. The city maintains systems—pipes, drains, tunnels, and infrastructure—to manage runoff so it doesn’t flood roads and properties.

But the controversy isn’t the concept. It’s the implementation—and the human impact.

Charika talks about residents feeling blindsided when the stormwater charges arrived, with different amounts based on impervious surface measurements (like roof size and paved area). People didn’t know why their bill was higher than their neighbor’s. Some didn’t even know what they were paying for.

And for folks who don’t feel like they benefit—people whose yards still flood, or who don’t see drainage improvements near their homes—the fee feels insulting.

One resident told her they were told, essentially: you shouldn’t have bought a house in that area.

Charika’s response is immediate: that’s a slap in the face. People don’t house-shop during a thunderstorm. They don’t know how water is going to behave after years of development and shifting runoff patterns.

This is where Charika’s “messy middle” approach shows up:

• Yes, stormwater systems are real and need funding.
• But people are real too.
• And policy must be compassionate—not just technically correct.

The fear factor: what happens if stormwater moves onto a utility bill?

One of the most emotionally charged parts of the conversation is the discussion about enforcement.

If stormwater is billed annually and someone can’t afford it in the moment, the consequence might be a lien—but they’re still in their home. Their lights stay on.

But if stormwater gets rolled into monthly utilities and someone can’t pay, now you’re talking about shut-offs and essential services—something that disproportionately impacts seniors on fixed incomes, residents with disabilities, and households already operating close to the edge.

That’s where Charika says her mind goes: worst-case scenario, and who pays the price.

She mentions learning that around 90% of residents are already paying—and she raises the question many people are afraid to ask out loud:

Are we reorganizing the whole system to chase the remaining 10%?

She also describes the moment in council when she thought a particular action might pass—and she wasn’t willing to “take that chance.”

So she dug in. She spoke up. She made sure her constituents’ concerns were on record.

Even when you lose a vote, there’s a kind of integrity in being able to say: I didn’t stay quiet.

The other major topic: property tax relief, PILOT revenue, and what’s next

From stormwater we pivot into another huge area of public curiosity: the city’s long-term financial strategy—especially related to major economic development

The conversation touches on PILOTs (payments in lieu of taxes), Industrial Development Authority agreements, and how future revenue could help offset burdens on residents.

Charika confirms council voted unanimously on a resolution tied to homestead-style relief concepts (as discussed in the episode), with the idea that state approval could make it possible to reduce or eliminate certain city property taxesstarting in a future year if approved by the General Assembly and signed by the governor.

We talk about what that could mean:

• Relief for homeowners (especially those feeling squeezed)
• How renters fit into the picture
• Whether relief could unintentionally lead to rent increases

Charika’s hope is clear: the benefit won’t be “taken back” from renters through higher costs, and the broader community will feel the positive impact of better financial footing.

We also discuss a major demographic fact that shapes everything: a large share of city residents are renters, not homeowners. Whether you love that or hate it, it’s reality—and it changes how policy lands.

Charika makes a thoughtful point: if you can reduce the burden on homeowners, maybe some long-term renters can finally cross the line into ownership.

Growth pressures: trucks, roads, sidewalks, and infrastructure that wasn’t built for this

If affordability is the emotional center of the episode, infrastructure is the practical center.

Charika describes a situation many residents have lived: increased truck traffic—delivery fleets, commercial flow, industrial growth—moving through subdivisions and streets that were designed for normal neighborhood use.

Those roads weren’t built for constant heavy loads. The result is predictable:

• more wear,
• more potholes,
• more reactive repairs,
• and higher costs.

She argues the city has to become more proactive instead of constantly playing defense.

We also revisit something you can’t unsee once it’s pointed out: pedestrian safety on high-traffic roads where people are walking, pushing strollers, or even using wheelchairs near the edge of the roadway.

Charika points to sidewalk work as a tangible, quality-of-life improvement that connects people to the square, to commerce, and to safer movement in the city.

The budget reality: “If more people understood it, they might say… okay, I see.”

One of the best “inside baseball” parts of the conversation is budget transparency—not in the political sense, but in the comprehension sense.

Charika says she wishes more residents attended budget sessions. Not because they need to agree with everything—just because understanding changes the tone.

A lot of residents feel:

“I pay taxes. That should be enough.”

And sometimes, unfortunately, it’s not. Not if infrastructure was delayed for years. Not if growth demands more capacity. Not if maintenance gets more expensive as the city ages.

She also says something leaders rarely admit publicly: you can cut costs, but only so far. Eventually you hit the point where cuts start harming essential services.

And that takes us right back to the messy middle:

• You need good roads and drainage and safety.
• Those things cost money.
• People are already stretched thin.

So the tension isn’t going away. The question is whether the city handles it with clarity and empathy.

What Charika wants to accomplish this term

When we ask what she wants to be able to “claim” at the end of this term, she doesn’t hesitate:

Affordability.

Not as a buzzword—as a moral commitment to the people who built this place, who work here, teach here, protect here, and want to stay.

She’s proud of being born and raised in Covington, and she doesn’t want it to become a city only certain income levels can access. She wants working-class families to be able to live where they want to live—not be pushed out by the rising cost of simply existing.

East vs West: is it real?

We also ask about the perception that the city is divided—east side vs west side, ward lines becoming identity lines.

Charika rejects the division.

She says she takes calls from people across the city, not just her ward. And when residents see a sign, recognize a name, or hear a councilmember speaking up, they reach out—because when people have a problem, they don’t always care about maps. They care about whether you listen and respond.

Links mentioned in the episode

• City of Covington — City Council page: https://cityofcovington.org/index.php?section=visit-calendar
• Covington — Main site: https://www.cityofcovington.org/

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How to reach Councilwoman Davis

Charika encourages residents to contact her through the City Council page, where her contact info is listed. She also shared a phone number during the conversation and mentioned she’s not personally active on social media.

If you’ve been anywhere near Newton County or the handful of Facebook pages our there, the last few months, you’ve felt it: the volume is up, the stakes feel higher, and the words annexation, zoning, moratorium, and especially data centerare showing up in everyday conversations like they’ve always been part of the local vocabulary.

They haven’t.

And that’s part of why this episode matters.

In Episode 72 of The Town Square Podcast, we sat down again with District 5 Commissioner LeAnne Long for her second appearance—about a year after our last conversation. The unofficial theme this time? The good, the bad, and the ugly of public service in 2025… with a very specific emphasis on how communication (and yes, transparency) has become the battleground in Newton County’s growth debates.

LeAnne doesn’t pretend to be everyone’s cup of tea. She’s blunt, high-energy, and unapologetically direct. But what’s impossible to miss is this: she’s been a major catalyst in getting regular citizens to pay attention again—especially around development pressure, annexation requests, and the rapid emergence of data center proposals.

And love her approach or not, the impact is real.

The “Good” in 2025: Citizens Woke Up

LeAnne says her biggest accomplishment in 2025 isn’t a single vote or a flashy project—it’s engagement.

Newton County isn’t a small city where everyone bumps into each other at the square and hears news by accident. District 5 includes large rural stretches, and people are busy living life outside the county for work, school, and schedules. That makes engagement harder—and it also makes “surprise outcomes” more likely.

Her solution has been consistent: put information where people already are.

That mostly means Facebook.

She describes her approach as part public service, part community organizing, and part marketing. She posts often, posts long when she has to, and (this part matters) she engages in the comments. The goal isn’t to “win the internet.” The goal is to reduce misinformation and stop the rumor mill from setting the narrative first.

A line that captures her mindset:

“If you’re not telling your story, somebody else is going to tell your story.”

This is the heartbeat of the episode: whether you like the method or not, she believes the people deserve the information early enough to respond.

“My Style Doesn’t Work for Everybody” (And She Knows It)

LeAnne doesn’t hide the fact that her style ruffles feathers. She’s not a “sugar-coater.” She chooses clarity over smoothness, and she’s willing to call out when conversations drift into personal attacks or off-topic narratives.

Her reasoning is simple: vague communication is a breeding ground for confusion—and confusion is where mistrust thrives.

She also admits she’s learned over time. She talked about the value of pausing, re-reading posts, deleting drafts, and listening to a trusted voice (including her daughter, who sometimes has to tell her to “take a chill”).

So no—this isn’t a story of someone who thinks they’re perfect. It’s a story of someone who feels responsibility so intensely that it occasionally overwhelms them… and still shows up the next morning ready to keep going.

The Flashpoint: Annexations + “Too Quiet” Data Center Moves

A big chunk of the episode centers on two annexation situations connected to the City of Covington:

• The Falconwood annexation request on Highway 278
• A proposed data center tied to the Elks Club Road area

LeAnne’s concern wasn’t that the process was “illegal” or that someone was doing something shady. In fact, she repeatedly acknowledged that the city followed the steps correctly.

Her frustration was this: the process can be “correct” and still be too quiet.

Here’s what she was watching for:

• Citizens not finding out until late in the game
• No signage (because sometimes it isn’t required at that stage)
• Public discussion delayed until the moment of a vote
• The fear that once something gets deep enough into the process (including potential state-level review), it becomes harder to stop—or even influence

She explains that annexations often begin with a request to the city, followed by courtesy notification to the county. The county response is time-sensitive and not structured like a full public hearing where people can step up and speak.

So her logic was: If the normal process doesn’t naturally “surface” the situation to the people early enough… then I will.

That’s what kicked off the online storm.

The Outcome: Covington Votes “No” (and the Clock Resets)

LeAnne and the hosts note that both annexations were voted down by Covington City Council on January 20, 2026(as referenced in the conversation). That matters for two reasons:

1. It reduced immediate pressure on those specific proposals.
2. It validated the power of citizen engagement—people showed up, spoke, and participated.

LeAnne also referenced the idea that after a denial, there’s typically a waiting period before the same property can come back again for annexation consideration (she wanted to confirm details with legal, but the practical point stands: it slows the momentum and creates breathing room).

And that breathing room is exactly what she’s been advocating for—not to stop growth entirely, but to make sure growth happens with eyes open.

Data Centers: Not “Anti-Growth,” Just Pro-Balance (and Pro-Information)

If you only caught the headlines, you might assume LeAnne is “anti data center.”

Her actual stance in the episode is more nuanced:

• Data centers can belong in the right places.
• Some have been positive partners (she mentions the growth of the Meta/Facebook presence in the region and how big it became “under our nose”).
• But Newton County is now dealing with volume: she references up to 12 proposals at one point in the conversation.
• The county ordinances haven’t historically been written for the speed and scale of what’s coming.

She also references training/classes taken through a county commissioners association and notes that many communities are pausing to update ordinances (buffer requirements, generator standards, lighting/noise impacts, acreage minimums, etc.).

And she brought up something most regular folks don’t think about until it hits their property line: the power infrastructure. Transmission lines, right-of-way negotiations, and how a single route can change what a landowner can do with acreage in the future.

In other words: the data center conversation isn’t just about one building. It has tentacles—water, power, noise, land use, long-term exit plans, and what happens if the technology changes faster than the county can adapt.

Communication Isn’t a “Bonus” — It’s the Job

One of the most important parts of the episode is LeAnne’s push for better county communication systems—not just one commissioner doing heavy lifting online, but a structure where citizens can easily find what’s happening near them.

She argues that residents shouldn’t have to file (and pay for) open records requests just to understand a zoning issue next door.

She wants:

• information posted earlier,
• more accessible links and documentation,
• online meeting access,
• clearer agendas and public notice that normal people can understand without a law degree.

Her logic is blunt: this is 2026. If other counties can do it, Newton County can do it too.

And she shares a quote that captures modern civic reality perfectly—something a resident told her:

“We elected you to go to the meetings. If we wanted to go to the meetings, we would’ve run for office.”

That’s not an excuse for apathy—but it is a reminder: participation has barriers (time, childcare, work schedules). If government wants informed citizens, it has to meet them where they are.

Property Rights: Both Sides Have Them

This is where the “messy middle” shows up.

LeAnne acknowledges the tension:

• landowners have rights,
• neighbors have rights,
• and zoning exists because “highest and best use” for one person can destroy the quality of life for the next person.

She’s not arguing for a world where nobody can develop. She’s arguing for a world where the rules are clear, the community is informed early, and decisions aren’t made while the public is still trying to figure out what the proposal even is.

Why These Conversations Matter (Even When They Get Messy)

LeAnne believes the hard conversations are healthy.

Not because conflict is fun, but because silence is expensive.

She’s candid about how heavy the job can feel—how overwhelming it gets when growth feels like it’s moving faster than the community can process. She admits she’s gone home frustrated and emotional. But she keeps coming back to the same guiding principle:

No surprises.

And that’s what this episode really is: a behind-the-scenes look at how one commissioner thinks about communication, accountability, growth pressure, and the responsibility to represent people who don’t have time to chase paper trails.

Whether you agree with her methods or not, this is the kind of conversation Newton County needs more of—because growth is coming either way. The question is whether the public gets to participate in shaping it.

Links Mentioned

• YouTube episode link: Episode 72: LeAnne Long
• SCB Construction Group: https://scbcg.com
• Luther Rice College & Seminary: https://www.lutherrice.edu
• Commissioner LeAnne Long (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/leannelongdistrict5
• Email mentioned: llong@co.newton.ga.us
• Georgia Association of County Commissioners (ACCG): https://www.accg.org
• 
  

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This week, we sat down with Covington Police Chief Brent Fuesting, a man who has quietly served this community for 23 years, and who was officially named Chief just recently—after stepping into the role as interim chief in May 2025.

And what made this conversation special wasn’t just learning “what a police chief does.” It was getting to know who he is—what drives him, what he values, what he worries about, and what he hopes Covington becomes as it keeps growing at a pace that, frankly, feels unreal to most of us.

Chief Fuesting didn’t show up with big bravado or polished talking points. He showed up like a guy who actually believes what he’s doing matters… and who still sees policing, at its core, as a form of public service.

Which, in 2026, is a pretty refreshing thing to hear.

“How have we not met?”

Before we even hit record, I had one of those Covington moments: How have we not crossed paths before?

Because here’s the thing—both of us have lived in this community for decades. We’ve run in overlapping circles. We know a lot of the same people. And yet, like a lot of folks in public service, Chief Fuesting has been out there doing his job without necessarily being a public-facing personality.

He even joked that opportunities like this—long-form conversations with the public—don’t happen very often outside of events, neighborhood watch meetings, or community outreach programs.

That’s one of the big reasons we wanted him on.

When a city is growing fast, visitors are pouring in from all over the world, and public confidence in institutions is… complicated… it matters that you know the people leading those institutions.

And Chief Fuesting is now leading one of the most important ones.

Why policing?

When I asked him what got him into law enforcement, his answer was simple: family.

His dad was a police officer. His brother became a police officer too. Law enforcement was in the blood—though Chief Fuesting admitted he actually fought it for a while. He wanted to do something different than what his family had done.

But life has a way of circling you back to what fits.

The story that finally pushed him into the academy is peak small-town Covington: his mom lived across the street from a well-known local figure, Ken Malcom, who literally brought an application over “on his mom’s behalf.” Two weeks later? Police academy.

Now it’s been 23 years—all of them right here with the City of Covington Police Department.

That’s a pretty strong statement, whether you realize it or not.

The brotherhood thing is real

We spent a few minutes talking about something you hear a lot—especially from military families—about the “bond” formed when people work in hard environments together.

Chief Fuesting didn’t hesitate: it’s real.

Policing forms a family-like bond because the work is intense, unpredictable, and often dangerous. The shared principles, the shared experiences, the “in the trenches” moments… it creates something deeper than normal coworker relationships.

And for folks like my daughter Anna Beth in the Marine Corps, that kind of bond is familiar. Different uniform, similar dynamic: a strong sense of mission, teamwork, and sacrifice.

Patrol is the foundation

Chief Fuesting started where most do: patrol, which he calls the foundation of good policing.

Patrol, he explained, exposes officers to every aspect of community life. It forces you to apply policy, training, and decision-making in real-world conditions—where things are messy and unpredictable, and where a textbook doesn’t show up to help you.

Interestingly, he said becoming Chief was never his original goal.

But as he moved into supervisory and command roles, the “leadership side” began pulling him in:

• organizational leadership
• strategic planning
• developing personnel
• making decisions under pressure

And that “developing people” part? That’s clearly a big deal to him.

What he loves about the job

If you had to boil down his “why,” Chief Fuesting said it plainly:

Helping people in need.

Yes, police enforce laws. Yes, they respond to crimes. Yes, there are moments where someone ends up in handcuffs.

But the side of policing that keeps him motivated is the part most people don’t think about first: compassion, empathy, and service—meeting needs when someone doesn’t know who else to call.

He even said it out loud: enforcement is “nuts and bolts,” but there’s another side that draws him—the compassionate side.

And I’ll be honest—he used those words repeatedly throughout our conversation, which tells me it’s not just a convenient phrase. It’s a value.

Life outside the badge

I asked what he does when he’s not at the police station.

His answer was exactly what you’d hope a leader in a high-stress job would say:

Family time.

That’s how he recharges. That’s how he stays grounded. That’s what keeps him focused.

And no—at home, they don’t call him “Chief.” (He made sure we knew that.)

Who leads the department with him?

We talked about how a police department actually sets direction.

Chief Fuesting described a command staff that helps craft a five-year vision for the department. And he was clear: it isn’t the city manager or city council “telling them what to do” operationally.

Instead, the vision is shaped by:

• community concerns
• data and call trends
• city growth
• deployment needs
• staffing and development priorities

He also gave the community a real look at the leadership team behind the scenes, including:

• Assistant Chief Gene Nuqui
• Captain Mike Tinsley (Patrol)
• Captain Mark Jones (Community Support / Outreach)
• Lieutenant Shockley (Training)
• Lieutenant Digby (Special Investigations)
• Lieutenant Slade McCullough (Criminal Investigations)
• Lieutenant Chris Cain (Patrol)
• Lieutenant Alan Seebaran (Patrol)

If you know Covington, you’ve probably heard a few of those names.

Covington has changed — fast

One of the most relatable moments of the episode was how Chief Fuesting described Covington then vs. now:

He remembers when, at 5:00 p.m., it felt like the sidewalks rolled up around the Square.

Now? It’s vibrant, busy, active—often late into the evening. And the city isn’t just full of locals anymore. We’re seeing tremendous visitors “from all over the world.”

That’s a whole new policing dynamic.

And he said straight up: the pace of growth has been “unreal” since he started.

A downtown precinct is coming back

One of the biggest concrete initiatives he shared is this:

Covington PD is working to open a downtown precinct inside the old police department building.

It’ll be staffed by a sergeant (including the sergeant over community outreach), and it will help with:

• golf cart permitting
• reports and walk-in needs
• Square parking issues
• trails and parks responsibilities

But the big idea is simple:

More visible presence downtown.

More accessibility for citizens.

A “return” to the Square without undoing what the newer, more functional department building has solved

That struck me as a smart move—practical and symbolic at the same time.

Transparency and the citizen review board

We also hit the topic everyone wants to know about: transparency.

Chief Fuesting pointed to several ways Covington PD tries to be an “open book,” including:

• an annual report with statistics (call volume, complaints, use of force, etc.)
• open records processes
• community outreach events and initiatives

But the standout piece was the Citizen Review Board.

He explained that Covington PD is one of only three departments in Georgia with a board like this:

• Atlanta PD
• Athens-Clarke County
• Covington PD

And here’s why that’s significant: Covington PD is much smaller—69 sworn officer positions—yet still maintains this level of outside oversight.

The board, made up of citizens appointed by city council, reviews use-of-force complaints and examines how the department responded, including video and evidence.

Whether you’re pro-police, skeptical, or somewhere in the messy middle, that’s a meaningful transparency mechanism.

The biggest challenge: recruitment & retention

If you expected him to say “crime” was the biggest obstacle, he didn’t.

He said the biggest issue facing law enforcement today is:

Recruitment and retention.

It’s difficult to get people into policing now. He pointed to cultural shifts, media narratives, and changes over time that have made the profession less attractive.

But he also said something hopeful: he believes the “pendulum is swinging back” in a more positive direction.

Still, his focus is on building a culture officers actually want to stay in—one that feels like family, where people can build a long-term career.

“Police Who Care” and the golden rule culture

One of the more surprising things Chief Fuesting shared is that Covington PD has a strong internal culture of service through Police Who Care (PwC).

He said every officer has money allotted that can be used to help people in need when they encounter them in the community.

That means the department isn’t only responding to crime—it’s responding to people.

And his “culture statement” for how officers should treat the public was about as straightforward as it gets:

Treat everyone you come in contact with like you’d want your family member treated.

He acknowledged there are moments when someone’s behavior changes what’s possible. But he said 99% of the time, that’s the goal.

His leadership style: servant leadership + accountability

I asked him to describe his leadership style.

He said:

Servant leadership, with a high profile for accountability.

Meaning:

• he wants to serve the community and support his officers
• but officers will be accountable for their actions

That combination matters. Too much “servant” with no accountability becomes chaos. Too much accountability with no servant mindset becomes cold and rigid.

He’s aiming for both.

He also shared a story that really captured this culture: the department recently made a five-year-old with a terminal illness an honorary police officer for the day, complete with a real badge and a full experience—an event that many officers participated in.

Again: compassion showing up in a real way.

Youth engagement is a future priority

When we talked about community needs beyond crime prevention, Chief Fuesting identified one big gap:

Youth don’t have enough to do.

He talked about how limited recreational options can create conditions where “juvenile stuff” happens. So the department is exploring longer-term ideas like:

• after-school programming
• a police activity league concept
• homework help + sports / activities afterward

He was honest: it will take time, money, and investment.

But he sees it as a real need—and a real opportunity to prevent problems before they start.

Technology is changing policing

Another theme he was genuinely excited about: technology.

He described how investigations have evolved dramatically from “boots on the ground knocking on doors” to a world where emerging technology shapes crime-solving and prevention.

He also emphasized the need for oversight and careful use of tools, mentioning audit trails and safeguards.

We also touched briefly on cybercrime—he clarified that if a person is a victim within Covington city limits / jurisdiction, the department can investigate and they do have personnel with specialized skill sets for that work.

What calls do they get the most?

I asked a question I like asking public safety leaders: “What’s the most common call you get?”

Unlike fire services (which often surprise people by saying medical calls), Chief Fuesting said policing is too diverse to narrow to one category.

But he said common categories include:

• accidents and traffic-related calls
• thefts
• domestic situations
• property crimes

And he explained the challenge clearly: every call comes with its own variables. Nothing is “one size fits all.”

Training never stops — and shifts are intense

He explained that Georgia POST requires 24 hours of yearly training, but Covington PD aims to go beyond that—training never really stops.

We also got a peek at the patrol schedule:

• 12-hour shifts
• a 3-2-3 schedule (3 on, 2 off, 3 on… alternating patterns across weeks)
• investigators typically work 8–5 but are on call

And like most departments, shortages increase workload and caseload pressure.

“How safe is Covington?”

I asked him directly.

His answer:

Covington is safe.

He explained that each shift is staffed, with roughly:

• eight officers per shift (24/7)
• plus traffic units part-time
• plus K-9 presence

He also shared that early indicators suggest some violent crime is dropping, while the department continues working property crime and the usual breadth of calls.

His point was reasonable: as call volume increases with growth, staffing will have to increase too.

The “Less Crime Act” and how to redirect state taxes to PwC

Before we wrapped, Chief Fuesting shared something that many citizens and businesses will want to know about.

Covington PD’s Police Who Care is now a certified public safety foundation, which allows participation in a 2023 law:

The Less Crime Act (HB 531C, as he referenced it)

In plain terms, he explained it like this:

If you (as an individual or business entity like an LLC/S-Corp) owe Georgia state income tax, you may be able to redirect a portion of what you owe to support Covington PD’s Police Who Care foundation instead of sending that portion to the state.

Those funds support initiatives like:

• helping people in need
• supporting officer families when an officer is injured or killed in the line of duty
• community support efforts connected to the department

He said details can be found through the department’s website (and we’ll include the link in the show notes).

That’s the kind of practical, local lever that can make a real difference—and it’s exactly the kind of thing most people don’t know exists.

Final takeaway

This conversation wasn’t a crime report. It wasn’t a political debate. It was something simpler—and maybe more important:

A chance to meet the person leading the Covington Police Department, understand how he thinks, what he values, and what direction he’s trying to take the department as the city grows.

Whether you’re a long-time Covington native or a new resident still learning the culture of this place, Chief Fuesting made his message clear:

• Covington PD wants to be visible, accessible, and engaged
• They want transparency and accountability
• They want officers who lead with empathy and compassion
• They need more good people to join the profession
• And they’re planning for the future, not just reacting to the past

If you’ve ever wondered what your police department is really like—beyond headlines and hot takes—this episode is worth your time.

Links Mentioned / Resources 

• Covington Police Department Recruiting / Careers: www.comingtopolice.com
• City of Covington website (jobs / info): cityofcovington.org
• Police Who Care / Less Crime Act info: covingtonfuzzrun.com

Sponsors 

Bizzy Bee Exterminators

Locally owned and operated. Bug and mosquito season is right around the corner.

Phone: 770-787-3718

Website: BizzyBeeExterminators.com

Main Street Land & Properties

Commercial + residential property management, brokerage, development, and construction management.

Address: 2141 Emory Street NW, Covington, GA

Website: mslap.com

Rapid Tax Services (Covington)

Trusted tax prep partner for more than 20 years.

Phone: 678-658-8601

Website: taxpreprt.com

That’s exactly why we wanted him on Episode 70 of The Town Square Podcast.

At first glance, Jim is just one of those familiar faces who’s always smiling, always shaking hands, always showing up. But once we sat him down at the mic, it became obvious: Jim isn’t “everywhere” because he’s bored. He’s everywhere because he’s living on purpose.

His story is part small-town Southern, part entrepreneur, part community-volunteer superpower… and part “I shouldn’t be here, but God kept me here for a reason.”

And somehow—because Jim is Jim—we still managed to weave in hot sauce, barbecue competitions, moonshine experiments, disc golf gear, and a (wild) Newton County history lesson about Dried Indian Creek that none of us will forget.

From South Carolina roots to Clayton County hustle

Jim’s story starts with family movement and working-class grit.

He was raised early on in Beach Island, South Carolina (Aiken County, right across the river from Augusta). His dad worked in the propane industry, and when a business opportunity pulled the family toward Atlanta, they relocated. Eventually, Jim’s father started his own propane business in Clayton County—back when Clayton was still pretty rural.

That entrepreneurial energy clearly stuck.

Jim followed a path that blended education and skilled trade, eventually spending 45 years in the heating and air industry, including 32 years running his own business in Clayton County while raising a family.

It’s the kind of story a lot of folks can relate to: work hard, build something, take care of your people, keep showing up.

But then… life took a turn.

2018–2020: Kidney failure, a fall, and a diagnosis that changed everything

In 2018, Jim’s health took a major hit: kidney failure.

Even with that, he kept working and powering through. He made it through the chaos of 2020 like the rest of us… but then on October 2, 2020, he fell, hit his head, and ended up in the hospital.

That fall exposed something bigger.

During testing—in the middle of COVID—Jim found out he also had leukemia, while dealing with a brain bleed and being on dialysis.

At that point, it was a stacked list nobody wants:

• Kidney failure
• Dialysis
• Brain bleed
• Leukemia
• ICU
• Long hospital stay

Jim ended up being sent to Emory, where he stayed for 75 days. At one point, he woke up in the ICU and found out he had a Do Not Resuscitate order on file.

That’ll make a man pray.

Jim described it as a moment that became very real, very personal, very spiritual:

“You brought me back twice. There must be something you have for me.”

And that line—more than any title or hobby—might be the real center of Episode 70.

“I got out of the hospital and didn’t even know I was retired.”

One of the most jaw-dropping parts of Jim’s story is what happened while he was still in the hospital.

While Jim was fighting for his life, his family handled business—literally.

His son, son-in-law, daughter, and wife sold his company while he was in the hospital. Jim told us:

“So when I got out, I was retired and didn’t even know it.”

Afterward, he faced a long recovery, including six more months of chemo even after leaving the hospital. He had to rebuild basic strength—wheelchair, walker, cane, then walking again.

Once he started regaining his footing, Jim and his wife sold their home (after a guy randomly approached wanting to buy it), moved closer to family in Covington—especially to be near their granddaughter—and Jim started asking a question that a lot of people face in a new season:

“What am I supposed to do now?”

The “Pepper’s” chapter: marketing, hot sauce, and making the rounds

When Jim was able to start working again, he connected with Pepper’s Heating & Air, a local company that had impressed him. He spent about a year and a half doing marketing for them—going to events, Chamber functions, building relationships, promoting the brand.

And this is where the story gets extremely Jim Corbin.

Because Jim didn’t just market the company with flyers and business cards…

He helped create a custom hot sauce as a marketing tool.

A local hot sauce maker—Petreaux’s Gourmet Hot Sauce—worked with Jim to create a custom label for Pepper’s. Jim handed out little bottles everywhere, and it became this perfect “Jim” thing: fun, memorable, and somehow effective.

Even after Pepper’s sold (and Jim didn’t go with the sale), the hot sauce connection stayed relevant because the maker’s products are still available—Jim even tells you exactly where to find them at Publix.

That detail tells you everything about how his brain works.

Habitat for Humanity: the mission he believes he was “saved for”

While the Pepper’s chapter explains why you saw Jim all over Newton County for a while… Habitat explains why he’s still everywhere now.

Jim’s connection to Habitat goes back decades. He first got involved in 1988, when Habitat partnered with industry groups to build homes—including a project connected with Jimmy Carter in Atlanta.

Jim described being a small business owner back then—just him, a helper, and a phone-answering admin—and still showing up to do the work. That early experience stuck because Habitat isn’t a “free house” model. Jim explained the key idea:

Sweat equity + affordable mortgage

Habitat homeowners aren’t handed something for nothing. They contribute time—often around 250 hours—working on their home, other homes, the ReStore, or wherever they’re able. And the home is typically financed with 0% (or low) interest depending on the affiliate.

Jim loved the dignity of that model.

Why Newton County now

A big update from the conversation: Habitat is being re-launched locally as part of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity, serving multiple counties (rather than a tiny one-county affiliate that can burn out over time).

Jim highlighted three major focus areas:

1. New home builds (the one everybody knows)
2. Home repairs

• Including “Brush with Kindness” (ramps, decks, paint, accessibility work)
• And major repairs that can be significant (roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical)

3. Veterans home repair support

• Including programs connected to The Home Depot Foundation’s support of critical home repairs for veterans through Habitat’s Repair Corps program  

Jim also made it clear: if someone hears this episode and needs help, he’s the kind of guy who’ll point you in the right direction.

Miracle League: “Every kid ought to be able to play baseball.”

If you’ve listened to the podcast for a while, you know we’ve talked about the Miracle League of Newton Countybefore. Jim got involved the way a lot of people do:

He heard about it, it hit a nerve, and he couldn’t not help.

Jim’s why is simple and powerful:

“Every kid ought to be able to play baseball.”

Miracle League games are built for joy: two innings, everyone hits, games end in a tie, and the atmosphere is pure fun. Jim volunteers as a buddy, meaning he’s out there on the field helping an athlete run bases, field safely, and enjoy the experience—whether that means pushing a wheelchair or quite literally “taking one for the team” when a ball comes your way.

It’s one more place where Jim’s “everywhere” reputation is really just another way of saying:

He’s present where it matters.

Alcovy CASA: being the constant in a kid’s chaos

Jim also serves as a CASA volunteer through Alcovy CASA, which advocates for children in foster care in Newton and Walton counties  .

He explained CASA in a way that cuts through the acronym:

When everything in a child’s life changes—placements, parents, attorneys, schools, routines—the CASA volunteer is the constant.

They spend time with the child, track what’s happening, and submit reports that the judge relies on to understand what’s truly best for that kid.

Jim shared a heavy story about his first CASA case, including how the child had been in the system for years, had an enormous case history, and eventually ended up incarcerated. It was sobering, honest, and full of compassion.

And even after that experience, Jim’s response wasn’t “I’m done.”

It was: “I want another kid.”

That tells you exactly who he is.

Barbecue life: judges, contests, and a whole subculture you didn’t know existed

If you thought Jim was just a casual “I like ribs” guy… no sir.

Jim is deeply connected to competitive barbecue:

• Memphis-style contest culture
• Georgia’s contest circuit
• KCBS events
• Master judge credentials
• Teams, trailers, overnight cooks, blind judging, all of it

He explained how judging works (including the class requirement), the difference between sanctioning bodies, and why so many teams do it even when it costs them more than they make.

And Jim being Jim, he made it personal:

• He’s cooked long enough to have strong sauce opinions (vinegar sauce forever)
• He’s got a Komodo-style smoker (Primo / Big Green Egg world)
• He’s even got moonshine stories—and a strong preference for apple pie moonshine

The funniest part might be how this “hobby” also becomes a relationship network. He talked about the barter system: judges don’t get paid, but they do get fed… and friendships are built one bite at a time.

Tennessee Squire: the most Jim Corbin title imaginable

Somewhere in the middle of all this, we discovered Jim is also a Tennessee Squire—a Jack Daniel’s “fan club” / honorary society that comes with memorabilia and (symbolically) a tiny plot of land at the distillery in Lynchburg.

Jim explained you have to be recommended by another Squire, and that there’s a special Squire room at the distillery.

And because the universe loves irony, Jack Daniel’s also hosts a major barbecue event… that Jim has judged.

He even let us in on the key perk:

The Jack Daniel’s judging goodie bag includes… a bottle of Jack.

Not all volunteer gigs are created equal.

Disc golf: the “new golf” chapter (and Newton County course talk)

After Jim’s health battles, regular golf became harder—especially with blood pressure issues and fatigue. Disc golf became a perfect fit: less time, less strain, still competitive, still outdoors.

He talked about:

• Beaver Park in Mansfield as a great beginner course
• Yellow River Park in Porterdale as his favorite (quiet, scenic, along the river)
• City Park being more challenging and tournament-heavy

He also mentioned the local culture around disc golf—the gear, the discs (drivers/midrange/putters), the techniques, and the “don’t call it frisbee” rule that disc golfers take weirdly seriously.

And yes, he even modified his old golf cart for disc golf.

Of course he did.

Rapid fire fun + a Newton County history bomb

We wrapped the episode with some rapid fire questions, local shout-outs, and a surprise twist:

Local BBQ shout-outs

Jim gave love to:

• Smoke Friendly BBQ (off GA-212)
• Bradley’s BBQ
• …and confirmed his love for Fresh Air BBQ in Jackson.

24 hours in Newton County

His advice was simple and honestly kind of perfect: go look at the old homes, the antebellum history, and take in the character of the community.

Dried Indian Creek story

Then Jim drops a piece of local lore about the origin of the name Dried Indian Creek—a story tied to early 1820s Georgia settlement, removal of Native people, and a violent incident that supposedly led to the creek’s name.

It’s the kind of story that makes you pause—not because it’s entertaining, but because it reminds you that local history holds both beauty and darkness.

And that’s part of what we do on this podcast too: talk about the real stuff, not just the shiny stuff.

Why Jim does all this

At the end, we asked the question behind the whole episode:

Why serve? Why keep showing up? Why help people?

Jim’s answer was honest and deeply personal:

After surviving leukemia, a brain bleed, and kidney failure… he sees his life as something he’s been given back for a reason.

So he’s spending it like it matters.

And Newton County is better for it.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity: https://schabitat.org

Alcovy CASA: https://www.alcovycasa.org

Miracle League of Newton County: https://www.miracleleague.com

Petreaux’s Gourmet Hot Sauce (Dragon Sauce): https://petreauxsgourmethotsauce.com

Georgia Barbecue Association: https://www.bbqga.org

Memphis Barbecue Network: https://memphisbbqnetwork.com

Sponsors

Main Street Land & Properties

• https://mslap.com
• 770-787-5520
• 
  

Bizzy Bee Exterminators

• https://www.bizzybeeexterminators.com
• (800) 273-4958

Chief Turner didn’t stumble into public safety. In fact, he told me he believes he was raised into it without realizing it.

He grew up in a family culture where helping people wasn’t a hobby—it was the posture. That theme showed up again and again in our conversation: service as identity, not just occupation.

But before fire service ever entered the picture, Chief Turner was a sports guy. A real sports guy. He played anything with a ball and was good enough to earn a full basketball scholarship. That shaped him—teamwork, discipline, pressure, leadership, competitiveness. And like most athletes with talent, he had the same dreams a lot of young men have: NBA, NFL… something big.

Then college ended.

And as his mom put it, it was time to go into “the real world.”

That’s where the path got interesting.

He Worked Every Side of Public Safety Before Fire Service

When Chief Turner says he’s been in public safety, he means it. Before becoming a firefighter, he had already worked in multiple public safety arenas:

Department of Corrections

He started in corrections, working at a facility in Hall County known for housing young offenders—young people whose trajectories were hard to watch. He described it as disheartening. For him, the big question became: “Can I make an impact here?” And after a lot of reflection and prayer, he realized the answer was no.

Sheriff’s Department / Law Enforcement

He transitioned to a sheriff’s department environment (in and around Atlanta) and again ran into that same internal tension. Could he make an impact? Could he thrive in an environment that felt like it was swallowing people more than helping them?

Again, the answer was no.

And that’s when his father asked the question that changed everything:

“Have you ever thought about fire service?”

Chief Turner’s response was honest and almost funny in the moment:

“Absolutely not. I’m scared of fire.”

Which is about as logical as it gets.

The Application He Forgot About

Here’s the part that feels like a movie scene.

Chief Turner applied to the City of Atlanta Fire Department, but the hiring process took so long—about three years—that he literally forgot he had applied.

Then one day the call came.

They asked if he was still interested.

And he had to remember what job they were even talking about.

But the timing was perfect. He was already in that transitional season, searching for something that fit. So he took the leap.

He called it faith.

I call it courage.

Finding His Niche: Competition + Teamwork + Helping People

Once he got into fire service, something clicked immediately.

He described it like finding his niche—because fire service combined the elements that were already wired into him:

• Competition
• Team dynamics
• Brotherhood
• Mission
• Helping people

And he talked about mentors—especially one named William Jucks—who didn’t just teach him the job, but helped him see the career. Not just “firefighter,” but growth, development, and leadership.

That mentor pushed him toward paramedic training, and Chief Turner’s initial reaction was relatable:

“I don’t want to go back to school.”

But he was told something important:

If you want to be relevant in fire service, you need to be a paramedic.

So, he did it.

And he didn’t quit.

He admitted it was hard. He said he wanted to quit multiple times, and he was surrounded by people who found reasons to drop out, which made quitting feel easy.

But his upbringing wouldn’t allow it:

If you start something, you finish it.

That mindset became a pattern. Year after year, he challenged himself to grow.

And eventually, he rose all the way through the ranks in Atlanta—starting as a recruit and reaching Deputy Chief in one of the largest departments in the region.

Why Newton County? Because It’s Family

Chief Turner could’ve stayed in Atlanta. He even thought he might be next in line for Fire Chief there.

But leadership shifts happen. Politics happen. Timing happens.

And he made a decision: it was time to lead his own department.

That’s when Newton County came into the picture in a deeper way, because while he grew up in Atlanta, he told me something I didn’t know:

Newton County is his second home.

His grandmother was born and raised here. Many of his relatives are here. He attended church here as a kid—specifically Bethel Grove Baptist Church.

And he said his mom added some “peer pressure” with a line that hit hard:

“I’m not going to be here forever… your grandma would be proud.”

So, when the opportunity opened, the choice wasn’t just career—it was personal.

Newton County wasn’t a stop.

It was a return.

“I’m Like a Reptile”: Leadership and Adaptability

At one point, I asked him about leadership—because nobody becomes Fire Chief by accident.

His answer was unexpected and honestly memorable:

“I’m like a reptile.”

He explained what he meant: he can adapt to the environment. He knows when to step back and let someone else lead, and he knows when to step up.

That adaptability matters in fire service because the culture is competitive. It’s full of strong personalities, “alpha attitudes,” and high-stakes teamwork.

And then he said something that framed fire service in a way I’ve never heard:

Fire service can start as a blue-collar job and evolve into a white-collar job.

Meaning: early on, you’re hands-on, task-driven, on the truck, in the work. As you rise, you become more responsible for strategy, policy, culture, sustainability—building systems that prevent emergencies, reduce risk, and support the team.

That’s where Chief Turner is now.

The Culture He’s Building in Newton County

When I asked what culture he’s trying to establish in Newton County Fire, he didn’t hesitate. He listed it clearly:

• Consistency
• Policy-driven operations
• Sustainability
• Retention
• Camaraderie
• Service excellence for citizens

He said one of the biggest realities today is that public safety staffing is hard across the board. People move from department to department, chasing better pay and benefits. Loyalty looks different than it used to.

And the younger generation is coming in with a challenge older leaders have to understand:

social skills are weaker than they used to be.

He contrasted his childhood—being kicked outside to play, knowing neighbors, building face-to-face community—with today’s reality: screens, isolation, less conversation, less interpersonal confidence.

His solution isn’t complaining about “kids these days.”

It’s meeting people where they are.

That stuck out to me as real leadership.

Do Firefighters Really Get Cats Out of Trees?

I had to ask.

And Chief Turner gave the honest answer:

Yes… and no.

He said if they’re going to be a “full service” department, they meet community needs when appropriate—but they don’t have to, and they won’t put firefighters in unnecessary danger.

Then he delivered the line every firefighter has probably wanted to say out loud:

“If the cat went up the tree, he can come down. If he gets hungry, he’ll come down.”

Fair enough.

The Biggest Challenge: Education and Communication

When we got into obstacles, he framed it around something most citizens don’t think about:

Fire service isn’t just “what the department wants.”

There are compliance standards they’re required to follow:

• NFPA compliance
• Georgia fire standards and training
• State Office of EMS requirements

So, when he talks about budget, staffing, equipment, and infrastructure, he sees it as risk management:

“I’m here to manage liabilities.”

He also made a strong case that prevention is the number one priority—even though firefighters naturally love action.

His perspective was blunt but true:

When firefighters respond to an emergency, that’s often someone’s worst day.

Preventing that worst day is the better outcome.

A Huge Surprise: 60% of Calls Are EMS

This is the stat that made me pause in the studio.

Chief Turner said roughly 60% of their call volume is EMS—medical emergencies.

That means a lot of the time when you see a fire truck show up, it’s not because something’s burning. It’s because:

• someone is having a medical crisis
• someone is injured
• there’s trauma from a wreck
• someone needs urgent care right now

He addressed the common reaction people have when a fire truck arrives instead of an ambulance:

“I didn’t call for a fire truck.”

And he explained it clearly: fire personnel are cross-trained and often carry the same life-saving equipment. The ambulance’s key difference is transport.

Fire trucks show up to save lives, not just fight fire.

Training and ISO: Why It Matters to Homeowners

Chief Turner broke down something that impacts every homeowner: ISO ratings.

ISO (Insurance Services Office) ratings are tied to fire department capabilities and directly affect homeowners insurance risk evaluations. He explained the rating system, the components, and how the score is built.

Newton County Fire is currently at an ISO 3, which is very good.

But Chief Turner’s goal is bold:

ISO 1—the highest rating possible.

He explained that ISO scoring is tied to:

• Fire department staffing/equipment/service delivery (50%)
• Water supply and access (40%)
• 911 systems (10%)
• Additional credit for community risk reduction (extra 5 points)

And he gave Newton County credit: our water resources are strong.

Community Risk Reduction: Smoke Detectors and Car Seats

Chief Turner shared several ways the department engages beyond emergencies:

• partnering with the Board of Education
• working in senior communities
• community events and visibility
• installing free smoke detectors
• partnering with organizations like the Red Cross for victim assistance
• exploring a car seat safety program (because yes, installing car seats correctly is an art)

This is what prevention looks like in real life.

Growth, Development, and “Don’t Sign Off on Bad Development”

I asked how the department keeps up with Newton County’s rapid growth—because growth means risk and demand.

He emphasized the role of the fire prevention division, working closely with planning and zoning, reviewing plans, inspecting developments, and ensuring infrastructure supports what’s being built.

He said it plainly: the department can’t be in the business of signing off on bad development.

He also referenced industrial risk—pointing out the importance of inspections and mitigation capacity to prevent incidents like “another BioLab situation.”

That’s not fear-mongering.

That’s stewardship.

His Big Vision: Accreditation and Internal Leadership Pipeline

Chief Turner is aiming for something beyond day-to-day performance:

Fire department accreditation.

He said something I loved:

“We can all say we’re good… but can we prove we’re good?”

Accreditation is tedious and time-consuming, but it creates accountability, standards, and excellence that doesn’t depend on one person.

He also said he wants to grow internal leadership so future chiefs come from within Newton County Fire. His line was strong:

“I want to be the last outside chief you get.”

That’s a culture statement.

Hiring: “We Can Train Skill… But We Can’t Train Heart”

We talked recruiting and what he wants in future firefighters.

He said fire service is open to anyone willing to do the work—and the department can train almost everything:

• skills
• procedures
• tactics
• certifications

But there’s one thing they can’t train:

heart.

If you bring heart, they can get you to the finish line.

He also encouraged Newton County residents to apply because locals have a vested interest in the community they serve.

(And yes, he mentioned recruitment classes moving through certification and staffing stations—real momentum happening.)

The Five Priorities Hanging in Every Station

One of the most impressive leadership details he shared: when he started, he completed a 100-day evaluation using a SWOT analysis—strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats.

He involved staff, created the package, and shared it with the county manager and every commissioner. Because for him, improving the department isn’t a solo burden—it’s shared accountability.

Out of that, Newton County Fire established five priorities, and he said these priorities are posted in every station:

1. Human Resources – recruit and retain the best people
2. Professional Development – invest in growth and career support
3. Training, Facilities, Equipment, Technology – give members what they need
4. Customer Service – meet the needs of the public daily
5. Public Relations / Public Education / Branding – educate and build trust

That’s a blueprint for sustainable excellence.

A Mustache Requirement?

I couldn’t resist asking if the firefighter mustache is mandatory.

Chief Turner laughed and basically said: not required… but tradition is hard to shake.

Some people just like the image.

And yes, you really can spot a firefighter sometimes.

Advice for Young People: The “Double F”

We ended with one of my favorite questions: what advice would you give a high school junior or senior considering fire service?

Chief Turner gave a thoughtful answer. He said if you’re not going to the military and not going to college, fire service can be a strong career path. You won’t get rich, but you can be stable. You can contribute. You can become a positive fixture in society.

Then he gave what he calls the “double F”:

Faith and Follow-Up

Believe in something, commit to it, and keep moving forward—even when the answers aren’t right in front of you.

He said he didn’t always have the answers, but he had support—family, friends, people helping keep him on the path.

And I told him the truth in the moment: that message hit me personally.

Because some seasons require faith.

And follow-up.

Final Thoughts: A Leader Who’s Building More Than a Department

What I appreciated most about Chief Turner is that he doesn’t talk like someone protecting his ego or his title. He talks like a man trying to serve the community well. He talks like someone who understands that public trust is earned through transparency, performance, prevention, and relationships.

He’s building more than response times and station counts.

He’s building a culture.

And Newton County will be safer because of it.

If you’d like to listen to the full conversation, search The Town Square Podcast – Episode 69 wherever you get your podcasts, or watch on YouTube.

And if you’re someone who has heart and is interested in fire service… Chief Turner made it pretty clear:

They can train the rest.

Others feel important.

And then there are those rare conversations that feel necessary.

This episode of The Town Square Podcast—our Christmas special—falls squarely into that third category.

As the year winds down and the calendar edges toward Advent, Gabriel and I sat down with Pastor Charles Prescott II, Senior Pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Covington—affectionately known by generations of members as “The Mac.” What unfolded was not just an interview, but a holy pause. A space to breathe. A place to name grief honestly, to talk about leadership without ego, and to rediscover hope—not as something loud or flashy, but as something faithful, steady, and often found in the smallest places.

This was a conversation about calling—and what happens when you try to run from it.

It was about institutions—the church, law enforcement, education—and how trust is built when faith in those institutions feels fragile.

It was about grief—personal, communal, generational—and how it shows up most loudly during the holidays.

And it was about hope—not as denial, but as disciplined remembrance of what God has already done.

In other words, it was exactly the kind of conversation we believe belongs in the messy middle.

A Pastor Who Didn’t Want to Be a Pastor

One of the most compelling parts of Pastor Prescott’s story is that he never aspired to the title he now carries.

“I didn’t want to be a pastor,” he said plainly—without bravado, without irony.

For more than a decade, he ran from ministry. Twelve years, by his own account. Until his grandmother—wisely and lovingly—reminded him that sometimes when you keep running, you’re only circling the thing God has already assigned to you.

That tension—between resistance and surrender—became a recurring theme throughout our conversation. Because many people listening right now aren’t running from a pulpit. They’re running from a hard conversation. A leadership role. A responsibility they didn’t ask for. A calling they feel unqualified to carry.

Pastor Prescott’s journey—from Augusta to Atlanta, from youth ministry to bi-vocational leadership, from law enforcement to the pulpit—offers a powerful reminder: calling is rarely convenient, but it is persistent.

From the Streets to the Sanctuary: A Leader in Two Worlds

Pastor Prescott doesn’t just lead a historic church. By day, he serves as the Chief of Police and Associate Vice President of Campus Safety at Morehouse College, his alma mater.

That matters.

Because few people understand the complexity of Black male leadership quite like someone who has lived on both sides of the institutional divide. He has investigated some of Georgia’s most high-profile cases. He has supervised in systems where trust is thin and scrutiny is constant. And yet, when he returned to Morehouse—back to a campus filled with young Black men—he was reminded of something essential.

“These aren’t suspects,” he said.

“These are sons. Scholars. Future leaders.”

That re-centering reshaped how he pastors.

It gave him language for bias—not as accusation, but as reality.

It reinforced the importance of listening before correcting.

And it shaped his conviction that leadership—whether in law enforcement or ministry—requires humility, patience, and emotional intelligence.

You cannot lead people well if you only see them through your worst experiences.

Stepping Into a Church Still Grieving

When Pastor Prescott arrived at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in April, he didn’t step into a blank slate.

He stepped into grief.

The previous pastor had passed away—a beloved leader whose absence was still deeply felt. For more than a year, the congregation had existed without a shepherd. And anyone who has ever loved a church knows: when a pastor dies, the loss is not just professional—it’s deeply personal.

“I walked into hurt,” Pastor Prescott shared.

“And I had to work on the inside before we could ever focus on outreach.”

That insight alone is worth sitting with.

In a world obsessed with growth metrics, branding strategies, and outward impact, Pastor Prescott named a counter-cultural truth: sometimes the most faithful thing a leader can do is tend to wounds before chasing vision.

In-reach before outreach.

Presence before programs.

Listening before leading.

Authenticity Over Performance

At 147 years old, Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church carries deep tradition—and with tradition comes expectation.

Pastor Prescott didn’t dismiss that history. He honored it. But he also made something clear early on: authenticity matters more than performance.

That means preaching with substance—not Saturday-night specials.

It means sneakers with a suit when bunions demand it.

It means sermons that can withstand Google fact-checks from the pews.

“We’re in a generation that wants depth,” he said.

“They want to know how this changes Monday.”

It was one of the most honest conversations we’ve had about the evolving role of the Black Church—and the responsibility pastors carry to speak truth without theatrics, conviction without ego.

Longevity, as Pastor Prescott reminded us, does not always equal correctness.

Christmas, Grief, and the Courage to Be Honest

As the conversation turned toward Christmas, something shifted.

This wasn’t a sentimental holiday episode filled with platitudes and polished cheer. It was real.

Both Pastor Prescott and Gabriel spoke candidly about losing their fathers. About the strange ways grief resurfaces—four years later, two years later, without warning.

A trip to CVS for a Father’s Day card.

A voicemail saved because it’s the last time you’ll hear her voice.

A wedding video rediscovered decades later.

Grief, they reminded us, doesn’t move on a schedule.

And the church must be a place where people are allowed to say:

“I don’t feel blessed and highly favored today.”

Transparency, Pastor Prescott said, is ministry.

And maybe the most faithful thing we can do during the holidays is let people breathe—without guilt, without pressure, without pretending.

Hope Isn’t Loud—It’s Faithful

Hope, in this conversation, wasn’t framed as denial or hype.

It was framed as memory.

Hope is believing God will move again because He already has.

Hope is trusting the promise because the promise was fulfilled once before.

Hope is Advent—waiting, not passively, but expectantly.

As Pastor Prescott put it, sometimes hope is found in the smallest victories:

Waking up

Coming home

Sitting at the table

Making it through another day

And sometimes that’s enough.

Mission Possible: Looking Ahead

When asked about the future of Macedonia, Pastor Prescott didn’t talk about numbers first.

He talked about trust.

He talked about younger generations knowing their pastor.

About mission work that happens not only overseas, but in jails, neighborhoods, and right on the Covington Square.

About a five-year vision called Mission Possible—a reminder that with God, even the most daunting work is achievable.

He knows his role isn’t to own the church—but to steward it for whoever comes next.

That kind of leadership—rooted, confident, unafraid of tight spaces—is exactly what our community needs.

A Christmas Word for the Messy Middle

If there’s one takeaway from this Christmas special, it’s this:

You don’t have to rush past your grief to be faithful.

You don’t have to fake joy to honor Christ.

You don’t have to have it all figured out to have hope.

Sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is name where you are—and trust that God meets you there.

That’s the message Pastor Charles Prescott II brought to the table.

And we’re better for hearing it.

Connect with Pastor Charles Prescott II & Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

📍 Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

• 2051 Henderson Mill Road, Covington, GA
• Website: https://www.macedoniacovington.org
• Facebook & Instagram: Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (The Mac)
• TikTok: Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

📧 Email: CharlesPrescott2@outlook.com

Instagram: @charlesprescott_ii

LinkedIn: Charles Prescott

🎧 Episode Sponsors – Thank You for Supporting Local Conversations

This episode of The Town Square Podcast is made possible by the generous support of our advertising partners:

Luther Rice College & Seminary

Equipping men and women for ministry and leadership through flexible, faith-centered education.

• 🌐 https://www.lutherrice.edu

Bizzy Bee Exterminators

Locally owned. Professionally trusted. Protecting homes and businesses across Newton County and beyond.

• 🌐 https://www.BizzyBeeExterminators.com

Main Street Land & Properties

Helping individuals and families navigate land and property investments with integrity and expertise.

• 🌐 https://www.mslap.com

As always, thank you for pulling up a chair in The Town Square.

From our families to yours—

Merry Christmas, and may you find hope right where you are.

It’s not often that cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and Newton County storytelling intersect, but when they do… man, buckle up. Because Adam doesn’t speak like the stereotypical IT guy hunkered over 12 monitors in a hoodie. He doesn’t talk down to people. He doesn’t hide behind jargon. He is, instead, one of those rare individuals who can take the incredibly complex world of digital threats, corporate hacking, AI evolution, and risk management — and translate it into stories, metaphors, and warnings that hit home for everyday people.

This episode isn’t about selling IT support. It’s about keeping our community safe in a digital world many of us only thinkwe understand.

And as Adam reminds us:

“Cybercrime isn’t coming. It’s already here.”

A Newton County Kid Who Grew Up to Secure the Digital World

Before we dove into ransomware and AI ethics, I wanted to know who Adam Harper is — and how Newton County shaped him.

Adam was born in McDonough but spent nearly his entire life right here in Newton County. His first job was at Chick-fil-A (or as he called it, serving “Jesus Chicken” in Conyers). He graduated from Grace Christian Academy, attended church at Belmont Baptist, and grew up during a time when Covington didn’t yet have the restaurants, parks, and movie scenes we’re now known for.

If you’ve ever wondered whether homegrown Newton kids can build nationally expanding tech companies — well, Adam is proof.

He wasn’t the kid who dreamed of building servers in his basement. He wasn’t some coding prodigy. Like many of us, he grew up fixing his grandparents’ VCR, resetting the Wi-Fi, and helping his family with computers simply because he was “the guy who knew a little bit more than everyone else.”

That little bit?

It grew into a calling.

From Sales to Cybersecurity: A Career That Found Him

Adam didn’t begin in IT.

He began in sales and account management, where he discovered something surprising:

“A lot of people who can build and fix a computer can’t sell one.”

That combination — the ability to understand technology and the ability to communicate with people — became his superpower.

He eventually joined an IT company, learned it inside and out, and discovered that real IT isn’t about machines at all. It’s about people. Relationships. Trust.

And trust is the currency of modern cybersecurity.

IT isn’t just fixing printers anymore.

IT is protecting:

• your bank accounts
• your church databases
• your business operations
• your email and identity
• your family’s digital footprint
• your organization’s survival

When Adam realized he could build a company that prioritized people over products, solutions over sales pitch, and relevance over revenue… Relevant IT Services was born.

And yes — I admit it right here in this blog — in the early days, I wasn’t sure about Adam. I thought he was trying to sell me stuff I didn’t need. I wasn’t sure if Relevant was relevant for me.

Turns out, I was wrong.

Turns out, he was exactly the guy we needed.

What Makes Relevant IT Different? A Boutique Approach to Digital Protection

One of the most refreshing parts of this interview was hearing Adam explain why Relevant IT Services isn’t like other IT companies.

Most IT providers:

• sell the same package to everyone
• push products that give them higher margins
• use the same systems for every client (whether it fits or not)
• avoid small organizations because they “aren’t profitable”

Adam does the opposite.

Relevant IT Services:

✓ builds tailored solutions

✓ treats churches differently than healthcare clients

✓ supports companies with 2 employees or 200

✓ does not push unnecessary products

✓ focuses on prevention, not emergency reaction

✓ serves people first

As Adam put it:

“IT is trust. When someone hires us, they’re trusting us with their entire company.”

That’s not just business.

That’s stewardship.

Cybersecurity: The Digital Crime Wave We Never Saw Coming

This is where the episode really lifts off.

If you’ve ever wondered:

• What exactly is cybersecurity?
• Who’s trying to hack me?
• Why email scams seem to never end?
• Why criminals target small businesses?
• Why your grandma gets tricked by fake Amazon calls?

You need to hear this.

Adam boiled down the entire cybercrime world into one simple sentence:

“Cybercrime exists for one purpose: to get your information so they can get your money.”

That’s it.

That’s the whole game.

But the methods?

They’re multiplying.

Cybercrime is now the 3rd largest “economy” in the world.

Let that sink in.

If global cybercrime were a country, its GDP would rank:

1. United States
2. China
3. Cybercrime

In 2023 alone:

• $10 trillion in cybercrime globally
• $61 billion lost in the U.S.
• $420 million stolen from Georgians
• 42% of victims were seniors
• 43% of attacks targeted small businesses
• 20% of small businesses that get hit shut down within six months

These aren’t statistics.

They’re wake-up calls.

The Two Most Common Attacks Everyone Should Know

Adam says 80% of all attacks come through email.

Here are the big ones:

1. Phishing (PH-ishing)

Fake emails pretending to be:

• Geek Squad
• Microsoft
• Your bank
• UPS
• Your pastor (yes… we’ve seen this!)

They trick you into:

• clicking a link
• downloading malware
• entering your username and password
• sending money

Phishing is the #1 attack method worldwide.

2. Social Engineering

This isn’t hacking your computer.

It’s hacking you.

Criminals use:

• friendly conversation
• emotional manipulation
• “urgent” requests
• fake authority

to get small pieces of information they later assemble like Legos.

Social engineering is how:

• CEOs get tricked
• elderly people send gift cards
• passwords get exposed
• ACH transfers get intercepted
• deepfake videos deceive employees

People think hackers sit in dark rooms typing furiously.

That’s the movies.

Most modern cybercrime?

It’s automated.

AI-powered.

Subscription-based starter kits for criminals.

Yes — hacking kits with 24/7 support exist.

The Dark Web: The Back Alley of the Internet

In one of my favorite metaphors of the episode, Adam explained:

“The dark web is like the alley where all the drug deals go down.”

It’s not illegal to access it.

But nothing good happens there.

The dark web hosts:

• stolen data markets
• hacking services
• ransomware groups
• identity theft networks

It is a world most people will never see — and that’s a good thing.

Real Stories That Will Keep You Up at Night

These were jaw-dropping.

✔ A Florida church had their pastor’s email hacked.

Hackers sent out a fake tithe request with a new payment link.

Members paid.

Money gone.

✔ A two-person company lost $35,000

A fake vendor email redirected their ACH deposit.

Gone in seconds.

✔ A local architect nearly lost $160,000

Cybercriminals infiltrated his email and changed wiring instructions.

Thankfully the FBI got involved — but only because a city government was one of the parties.

✔ Grandparents receive deepfake calls

AI-generated voices pretending to be their grandchildren, begging for money.

If this doesn’t scare you a little, you’re not paying attention.

So… What Can We Do? Real Steps for Real People

Adam broke it down so clearly:

1. Use strong passwords

Not birthdays.

Not dogs’ names.

Not “password123.”

Actual strong passwords.

40 characters if you can manage it.

Use phrases from songs or speeches.

2. Use a password manager

Let it generate random passwords for every account.

Your brain shouldn’t have to hold that much complexity.

3. Use TWO-FACTOR authentication — but the RIGHT kind

Do NOT rely on SMS text messages.

Hackers can hijack your phone number.

Use:

• Google Authenticator
• Microsoft Authenticator
• Password manager–based authenticators

That extra 5 seconds could save you $160k.

4. Update your devices

Updates are security patches, not annoyances.

5. Back everything up

Ransomware is useless if you have clean backups.

6. Verify all ACH or banking changes by phone

Not email.

Not text.

Call a real person.

7. Lock your devices when you walk away

Even at home.

Even if it’s “just your kids.”

Even if it’s “just for a minute.”

8. Pause before clicking

Most attacks thrive on urgency.

If an email feels pushy, emotional, or rushed — stop.

The Rise of AI: Friend, Foe, or Both?

If cybersecurity wasn’t heavy enough, we turned to the other elephant in the room: artificial intelligence.

Is it good?

Bad?

Terrifying?

Promising?

Adam said the smartest thing I’ve heard yet on the subject:

“AI is a tool. Like any tool, it can be used for good or bad.”

AI helps:

• doctors analyze symptoms
• businesses automate workflows
• people navigate roads
• search engines find answers
• content creators build
• cybersecurity companies detect threats

But AI also fuels:

• more effective scams
• deepfake audio and video
• automated hacking
• misinformation
• job displacement
• ethical dilemmas

We’re early in the curve.

Still figuring out guardrails.

Still trying to regulate a technology we don’t fully understand.

But ignoring AI won’t stop it.

Engagement will.

Learn it.

Use it.

Don’t fear it — shape it.

Digital Resilience: How We Live with Technology Without Losing Our Minds

Adam touched on something profound:

We are more dependent on technology than ever.

But dependency doesn’t mean helplessness.

Digital resilience is:

• knowing when to unplug
• using tools without being used by them
• protecting kids
• guarding the elderly
• practicing skepticism
• verifying information
• recognizing deepfakes
• not posting vacation photos until after you return home

It’s about being awake in a world designed to distract us.

Where Relevant IT Goes from Here

Adam sees Relevant IT Services expanding throughout the Southeast, but not recklessly.

“Growth for the sake of growth is the mentality of a cancer cell.”

They want to grow on purpose, not by accident.

Their goals:

• expand to help more people
• stay ethical
• maintain quality
• stay relationship-centered
• keep protecting small and mid-sized businesses
• keep helping churches, schools, and local organizations

Their mission isn’t world domination — despite Adam joking about it at the end.

Their mission is simple:

Serve and protect.

Rapid Fire Wisdom from Adam Harper

Some of my favorite takeaways from our lightning round:

--Cryptocurrency — Good or Bad?

“Both.”

(And yes, he owns some.)

--Biggest cybersecurity myth?

“I’m too small to be a target.”

Nope. Everyone is a target.

--Apple or Android?

He plays it safe:

Both have pros and cons

(But he leans Apple.)

--Best advice he ever received?

Three pieces of gold:

1. “Be bold.”
2. “Attitude and concentration.”
3. “What would your replacement do?”

How to Contact Relevant IT Services

If your organization needs:

• cybersecurity protection
• IT support
• email security
• backup management
• risk assessment
• system upgrades
• vulnerability analysis
• or simply someone you can trust with your digital world…

Adam and his team offer free assessments and customized solutions.

📍 Website: RelevantITServices.com

📧 Email Adam: AdamHarper@RelevantITServices.com

They work with:

• churches
• healthcare providers
• law firms
• architects
• apartment complexes
• nonprofits
• small businesses
• medium businesses

Anyone from 2 employees to 100+.

Town Square Podcast Advertising Partner

A HUGE thank you to the sponsors who make the podcast possible. These organizations support the heart of what we do — strengthening Newton County through storytelling and meaningful conversation.

Rapid Tax Services

📞 (678) 658-8601

🖥️ https://taxpreprts.com

Whether you’re a business or an individual, Rapid Tax Services brings accuracy, honesty, and fast turnaround. Your refund deserves the best.

Main Street Land and Properties

📍 2141 Emory Street NW., Covington, GA 30014

📞 770-787-5520

🌐 https://mslap.com

Local experts who know Newton County property inside and out. Whether buying, selling, or investing, their team treats your land like their legacy.

Luther Rice College & Seminary

📍 3038 Evans Mill Road, Lithonia, GA 30038

🌐 https://www.lutherrice.edu

📞 (770) 484-1204

Offering fully accredited online and on-campus degrees in ministry, leadership, apologetics, and more. Now available for dual enrollment too. Affordable. Flexible. Trusted for over 60 years.

Final Word

Cybersecurity isn’t a tech issue anymore.

It’s a life issue.

A community issue.

A family issue.

And artificial intelligence isn’t science fiction anymore.

It’s shaping the world already.

In Episode 67, Adam Harper gives us something rare:

clarity, without fear.

warning, without panic.

hope, without naivety.

Newton County, this is one you’ll want to listen to — maybe twice.

#TownSquarePodcast #RelevantITServices #Cybersecurity #AI #NewtonCounty #DigitalResilience #MessyMiddle

Most of us have been conditioned to believe that politics has to be ugly. That campaigns are supposed to be mud fights. That candidates win by tearing each other down. That regular citizens like you and me are supposed to just pick a side, yell at the TV, and share a few spicy memes.

But what if politics could feel different?

What if you could walk into a room, sit down with your neighbors, listen to candidates calmly explain their vision, ask your own questions, and walk out feeling more hopeful and better informed—not exhausted and angry?

That’s exactly what Elder J.B. Brockman and the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. are trying to do with the Kappa Koffeehouse Town Hall forums.

In Episode 66 of The Town Square Podcast, I sat down with Elder J.B. Brockman, Chairman of the Political and Civic Action Committee (PCAC) for the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter (CCAC) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. We talked about his personal journey in ministry, his 45-year commitment to Kappa Alpha Psi, and the powerful, nonpartisan civic work their chapter is doing in Rockdale and Newton counties.

Most of all, we talked about what it looks like to bring people together in that “messy middle” where real conversations, real learning, and real solutions can actually happen.

Meet Elder J.B. Brockman: Minister, Mentor, “Boots on the Ground”

Anytime someone walks into the studio with the title “Elder” on their name tag, you know you’re in for a deeper conversation. For Elder Brockman, “Elder” isn’t a nickname. It’s not a cute moniker or fraternity title. It’s a calling.

He shared that while he was baptized as a young man, he fully committed his life to Jesus Christ in 1986. A few years later, in 1989, he answered the call to ministry. By 1993, he was a licensed and ordained minister. And in August of 2023, he was ordained as an elder in his church.

Elder Brockman serves at Victorious Life Church in Conyers, tucked just off Highway 138, behind the post office and not far from the old movie theater. In that role, he doesn’t just “sit on the front row.” He carries significant pastoral responsibility:

• Providing spiritual leadership and guidance
• Teaching and praying for members
• Offering pastoral care and support
• Helping resolve disputes
• Assisting the pastor with assigned duties
• Officiating homegoings and funerals
• Leading an altar team that prays for people during altar calls each Sunday

In other words, when Elder Brockman walks into a room—whether it’s a church sanctuary or a civic town hall—he’s thinking like a shepherd. He wants people to feel safe, heard, and cared for. That pastoral heart would become a defining feature of the way he leads in civic spaces, too.

From Benedict College to a Lifelong Brotherhood

Long before “Elder” came before his name, young J.B. was a college student at Benedict College, a small HBCU in Columbia, South Carolina.

Picture a campus buzzing with activity. Among the athletes, student government leaders, and scholars, there was a group of young men who caught his eye—not because they were throwing the biggest parties, but because of their service and leadership.

They were members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

“I saw these young men on campus that were doing community service. They were leaders in athletics, in student government, and they were achievers in their academics. They were well-respected gentlemen, always doing things to help students around the campus.”

He was drawn in by their charisma, their respect in the community, and their clear commitment to something bigger than themselves. He thought, “I think I could lend my little talents to that organization and see what we can do together as a team.”

That’s how his journey into Kappa Alpha Psi began—spring of 1980—and he’s been walking with that brotherhood ever since.

The fraternity’s motto is: “Achievement in every field of human endeavor.”

That line grabbed him. These weren’t just social guys wearing letters. They were achievers—men who wanted to make an impact wherever they went.

And for Elder Brockman, that idea of achievement with purpose became a through-line in his life: in ministry, in brotherhood, and in civic engagement.

What Makes Black Greek Life Different? (Hint: It Doesn’t End at Graduation.)

One of the things we unpacked together in this conversation is how Black Greek-letter organizations—the fraternities and sororities often associated with HBCUs—operate differently than many people assume.

A lot of folks think of fraternities and sororities as four-year college experiences that end at graduation. You get your photos, your memories, maybe a few stories you can’t tell in public, and you move on.

But in organizations like Kappa Alpha Psi, that’s not the case.

“You are a brother for life.”

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. It started as Kappa Alpha Nu and later, in 1915, officially became Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. That’s where the nickname “Nupes” comes from—a nod to that original name.

Today, the fraternity boasts:

• 700+ undergraduate chapters across the country
• Well over 150,000 members (and growing)
• A presence in virtually every major city in the United States

But the fraternity is not just made up of undergraduates.

Once a member leaves college, he doesn’t leave Kappa. He transitions into an alumni chapter—and that’s where the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter (CCAC) comes in.

Founded in 2011, the CCAC serves Rockdale and Newton counties. And while they may “only” have about 45 members, that number is deceiving.

As Elder Brockman put it, they’re “power packed.”

Their members include:

• Pastors and ministers
• Judges
• Doctors and dentists
• Lawyers
• Superintendents and educators
• School principals
• College presidents
• 
  

When Kappa Alpha Psi says “achievement in every field of human endeavor,” they mean it.

A High Bar: Achievement, Service, and Accountability

One of the most striking things about Kappa Alpha Psi, particularly at the alumni level, is the standard they maintain for membership.

To join an alumni chapter like CCAC, a man must:

• Have a four-year college degree
• Demonstrate a track record of achievement
• Show evidence of service and community involvement

“Most of the men who join our organization are already walking in achievement. What we do is we take that achievement, we cultivate it. We take your leadership skills and help get you more developed.”

This is not an organization for people who just want to put on a red jacket and attend photo ops.

In fact, when a young man once asked Elder Brockman where he could “get one of those red jackets,” Elder had to gently remind him: not just anyone can wear that jacket. There’s a story, a standard, and a responsibility behind it.

Kappa Alpha Psi’s five core objectives drive everything they do. They aim to:

1. Unite college men of culture, patriotism, and honor
2. Encourage honorable achievement
3. Promote the spiritual, social, intellectual, and moral welfare of its members
4. Assist the aims of colleges and universities
5. Inspire service in the public interest

In other words, being a Kappa isn’t about status—it’s about service and stewardship.

And that mindset is exactly what birthed what may be one of the most important civic projects in our local community: the Kappa Koffeehouse.

The Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter: Busy on Purpose

Before we dive into the Kappa Coffee House, it’s worth understanding the broader work of the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter.

CCAC is committed to making a meaningful impact in Rockdale and Newton counties through three main lanes:

1. Mentoring
2. Civic engagement
3. Community service

Their programs and initiatives include:

1. Guide Right & Kappa League (Mentoring)

The Guide Right program—anchored by Kappa League—is their youth mentoring arm.

• It serves young men ages 6 to 22
• It emphasizes leadership, character building, academic achievement, and service
• It exposes young men to positive role models and real-world opportunities

For many young men, this is their first exposure to structured mentorship and an organized brotherhood that encourages them to imagine a life bigger than what they see in front of them.

2. Senior Citizens Involvement

CCAC also has a senior citizens committee that partners with local efforts like the City of Covington’s Mayor’s Walkand senior programs at Turner Lake Recreation Center.

You’ll find them:

• Handing out bottled water at community walks
• Volunteering at senior events
• Offering help and support to older adults in the community

It’s a reminder that community uplift isn’t just about the next generation—it’s about honoring the ones who came before us, too.

3. Health & Wellness

The chapter is serious about health and wellness—not just for themselves, but for the community.

• Many members, like Elder Brockman, work out regularly (he’s in the gym five days a week)
• They recently hosted an inaugural 5K run in Rockdale County
• They partner with local organizations and colleges to offer health screenings, including prostate screenings for men

4. Community Service & Food Support

Through their community service committee, CCAC participates in:

• Food drives and food pantries
• Partnerships with other local organizations to serve people in need
• Service projects throughout Rockdale and Newton that quietly—but tangibly—make life better for families

And then, of course, there is their Political and Civic Action Committee, chaired by Elder Brockman, which operates the Kappa Koffeehouse forums.

The Kappa Koffeehouse: Town Halls Done Differently

My first real encounter with Elder Brockman and CCAC was at a Kappa Coffee House event—a town hall-style forum for political candidates.

Let me be honest: I walked in with my own assumptions.

I knew Kappa Alpha Psi is a historically Black fraternity. In today’s political climate, it’s easy to assume that anything connected to Black Greek life, civic engagement, and politics must automatically tilt in one partisan direction.

So, I expected a certain flavor of political lean.

What I got instead completely disarmed my assumptions.

The Kappa Koffeehouse was:

• Nonpartisan
• Non-combative
• Well-structured
• Fair to every candidate
• Centered on the issues, not political theater

Elder Brockman served as the emcee, and he did it with a mix of warmth, humor, backbone, and pastoral presence. At one point, during a particularly tense sheriff’s race, a candidate started drifting off into a kind of sidestepping answer.

Elder gently but firmly stepped in:

“With all due respect, that’s not what the question was.”

It wasn’t rude. It wasn’t aggressive. It was accountability with respect.

And that’s the heart of the Kappa Koffeehouse.

Not a Debate. A Conversation.

One of the most important distinctions Elder makes is this:

“This is not a debate.”

The Kappa Koffeehouse is intentionally designed as:

• An intimate sit-down meeting
• In a nonpartisan environment
• That is non-combative
• Where issues take center stage instead of candidate attacks

Citizens submit questions—often written on cards. These are passed to a moderator or panelist who then poses them to the candidates, who are referred to as “guest panelists.”

The candidates are instructed to speak to the audience, not to each other. They aren’t there to score points off their opponent—they’re there to present their vision for the community.

“You’re not answering your opponent. You’re answering the citizens who came to hear your vision.”

Because of this format, citizens can:

• Ask meaningful, specific questions
• Hear candidates explain their stance without shouting matches
• Get answers in real time
• Leave with clarity instead of confusion

Over and over again, Elder shared, people come up to him after these forums and say:

“Thank you for providing a space where I can come in, hear, see, and listen without all the negative chatter.”

Boots on the Ground, Not Thumbs on a Keyboard

Elder describes the Political and Civic Action Committee as “boots on the ground.”

Their job is to:

• Attend community meetings—political and civic
• Listen to what’s being discussed
• Build trust with citizens
• Be a resource for accurate information
• Inform, educate, and engage people in the community

People call Elder because they know he listens. They know he’s present. They know he’s “boots on the ground”—not just another voice shouting from the sidelines.

But what gives his words weight is not just his personality—it’s the credibility of the organization behind him.

People know that Kappa Alpha Psi in this community is:

• Nonpartisan
• Respected
• Consistent
• And serious about achievement and service

That credibility matters in a time when trust in institutions is at an all-time low.

Nonpartisan by Design

It’s important to say this clearly:

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter do not endorse candidates or align with a political party.

They are explicitly nonpartisan.

Whether you’re:

• Republican
• Democrat
• Independent
• Or something else entirely

—you’re welcome at the Kappa Koffeehouse.

This sets them apart from many civic spaces that have become de facto extensions of one party or the other. Instead, Kappa Koffeehouse forums are built to be a place where:

• Citizens can hear from all sides
• Candidates of different parties share the same stage
• Respectful dialogue replaces mudslinging

In a world that desperately needs more “messy middle” spaces—places where people of differing views can still sit down, talk, and listen—the Kappa Koffeehouse is leading the way right here in Rockdale and Newton counties.

“You’ll Never Pull This Off” (Challenge Accepted.)

When CCAC started putting on these nonpartisan forums, not everyone believed they could do it.

“We were told there’s no way you’re going to be able to pull this off.”

They were told:

• You can’t bring that many candidates into the same room
• It’ll devolve into arguing
• People won’t come
• It’ll be a logistical nightmare

But they didn’t just pull it off—they raised the bar.

In the spring of 2024, they hosted what Elder describes as the largest town hall meeting in the history of Rockdale County:

• 24 candidates in one forum
• A line wrapped around the building
• People had to be turned away because they couldn’t fit everyone inside

For an organization whose motto is achievement in every field of human endeavor, this was more than an event. It was a statement:

“Oh no, not only are we going to pull this off, but we’re also going to do it well.

And they did.

Word is spreading, too. People come to a Kappa Koffeehouse forum once, and next time they bring ten more people with them.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and a Possible Governor’s Forum

If you think what they’ve done so far is impressive, just wait.

As we head toward 2026, Elder shared that CCAC is already in the exploratory phase of something big:

a possible “Meet the Candidates” town hall for the Georgia governor’s race.

Nothing is finalized yet, but the fact that people are asking them to consider taking on something of that magnitude says a lot.

“We have become the go-to premiere group for quality town hall meetings in the community. That’s what we’re known for.”

They’re also looking at more local races in our area:

• Open seats in the Georgia House of Representatives
• An open State Senate seat
• Local races that directly impact the daily lives of Newton and Rockdale residents

As their reputation grows, so does the demand. Elder mentioned they’ve even been asked about doing follow-up forumson topics like community safety and mental health after highly successful events in both Rockdale and Newton.

To keep up with them, you can visit their website:

www.ccacnupes.org

Click on “Programs and Initiatives” and then the Kappa Koffeehouse tab to see what’s coming up.

They’re also working toward launching a newsletter to keep citizens even more informed and engaged.

Service, Mentorship, and Being a “Solution Agent”

When I asked Elder Brockman what kind of legacy he wanted to leave, his answer wasn’t complicated.

He wants a legacy of service and impact.

• Service that puts citizens first
• Service that makes sure people are connected to resources
• Service that lifts people up and offers real help
• Impact that brings about positive change, not just noise

And when it comes to young people—especially young men—he hopes they will:

1. Find a way to serve.

Find a cause that you’re passionate about. Get involved. Put your hands to the plow.

1. Seek and offer mentorship.

Elder mentors others, and he also has mentors himself. We never outgrow the need for someone ahead of us and someone behind us.

1. Take civic responsibility seriously.

Show up. Attend meetings. Listen. Learn. Ask questions. Hold your leaders accountable in a respectful, informed way.

1. Be a “solution agent.”

This might be my favorite phrase from the entire conversation.

“If you’re going to call me about a problem, then what is the solution to that problem? Don’t call me about the problem if you haven’t thought about the solution.”

We have no shortage of problems in our communities. What we need are solution agents—people who are willing to bring ideas, energy, and creativity to the table instead of just complaints.

The Messy Middle, the Church, and the Coffee House

If you’ve listened to The Town Square Podcast for any length of time, you know we talk a lot about the “messy middle.”

We don’t believe the best answers are found on the far edges of the political spectrum where folks just yell at each other. We believe the best solutions are usually found when:

• We sit down together
• We listen
• We ask honest questions
• We avoid caricaturing each other
• We are willing to disagree without becoming disagreeable

Elder Brockman’s work with the Kappa Koffeehouse is a living example of that messy middle in action.

He’s a minister of the gospel, a lifelong Kappa man, and a civic leader. He loves his community. He loves his church. He loves the idea of people sitting across from each other—not to win, but to understand.

In a world where national politics has modeled some of the worst behavior imaginable, it’s no surprise that local politics often imitates that ugliness. But it doesn’t have to.

“We’ve got to learn how to lovingly disagree. You can disagree—it’s how you disagree. You don’t have to be disagreeable.”

Amen.

How You Can Get Involved

If you live in Rockdale or Newton County—or even nearby—and you’re tired of:

• Drama-filled debates
• Social media arguments
• Sound bites and spin

…then the Kappa Koffeehouse forums might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Here are some practical ways to plug in:

1. Attend a Kappa Koffeehouse forum.

• Watch for announcements at www.ccacnupes.org
• Invite a friend or neighbor to come with you
• Bring your questions and your curiosity

1. Support the Conyers-Covington Alumni Chapter.

• Share their events with others
• Connect young men (ages 6–22) to their Kappa League mentoring program
• Partner on community service or health initiatives

1. Be a “solution agent” where you are.

• Don’t just complain about what’s wrong
• Show up, speak up, and bring solutions to the table
• Model respectful disagreement in your own circles

1. Stay engaged, not enraged.

• Remember: you’re far more likely to run into your local school board member or county commissioner in the grocery store than you are to run into a president or senator.
• Build relationships locally. These are the people you’ll worship with, shop beside, and raise kids alongside.

Why This Conversation Matters

Hosting Elder J.B. Brockman on The Town Square Podcast wasn’t just about highlighting a fraternity, a church, or a civic committee.

It was about shining a light on a way of doing politics and community life that is:

• Constructive rather than destructive
• Grounded rather than sensational
• Local rather than distant and abstract
• Rooted in service rather than ego

From his days at Benedict College to his ministry at Victorious Life Church; from his decades in Kappa Alpha Psi to his leadership of the Kappa Koffeehouse forums, Elder Brockman has been quietly building a legacy of achievement, service, and solution-focused leadership.

And in a time when it would be easy to give up on politics—or write off entire groups of people—we need examples like his to remind us that there is another way.

A way where:

• Candidates respect citizens enough to answer real questions
• Citizens respect each other enough to listen without yelling
• Organizations step up to host spaces that are truly for the people, not for a party

That’s the kind of work worth celebrating, supporting, and replicating.

If you haven’t listened to Episode 66: Elder J.B. Brockman: Brewing Better Politics at the Kappa Koffeehouse – Episode 66 yet, I hope you’ll take some time to do that.

Then keep your eyes open for the next Kappa Koffeehouse event—because the messy middle is a lot less scary when you realize you’re not standing there alone.

Links & Sponsors

Support the local businesses that make The Town Square Podcast possible:

• Rapid Tax Services – Fast, affordable tax prep with integrity. Call 678-658-8601 or visit TaxPrepRTS.com
• Main Street Land & Properties – Your trusted partner for residential and commercial real estate. Stop by 2141 Emory Street NW in Covington or visit MSLAP.com
• Bizzy Bee Exterminators – Locally owned and operated, keeping Newton County bug-free for over 20 years. Call 770-787-3718 or visit BizzyBeeExterminators.com

This wasn’t just another episode.

It was a pause.

A breath.

A moment to reflect on 65 candid, sometimes messy, always meaningful conversations with leaders, influencers, contrarians, thinkers, servants, and everyday Newtonians who give their best to this place we love.

This episode is our Thanksgiving table — a long, heartfelt conversation filled with gratitude, honesty, humor, reflection, and even some tears. It’s a celebration of how far we’ve come, how much we’ve learned, and how much we still want to accomplish together.

What follows is a full exploration of the themes, stories, and heart behind Episode 65.

Back to Day One: Why We Started This Podcast

Before the first microphone was plugged in, before the first episode aired, before the first guest sat across from us, we had a simple question:

“How do we create a space where people in Newton County can disagree without disrespect?”

This began because we watched neighbors talk past each other online.

We watched conversations break down into insults rather than ideas.

We watched people assume the worst about people they’d never even spoken to.

And we knew there had to be a better way.

The messy middle — the space between extremes — is where most people actually live. It’s where complexity lives. It’s where the truth usually lives. But it’s also the space our culture avoids, because the middle requires humility. It requires letting go of absolute certainty. It requires listening long enough to learn something new.

This podcast started as an experiment:

Could we create a platform where real conversations — nuanced, layered, human conversations — were possible?

Sixty-five episodes later, the answer is yes… and then some.

Humbling Growth: A Community That Was Ready for This

We didn’t expect the response.

Not the thousands of downloads.

Not the messages.

Not the people who stop us in the grocery store.

Not the guests who walk in nervous and walk out relieved.

Newton County was hungry for civil discourse, hungry for depth, hungry for context, hungry for a reprieve from the algorithm-driven extremes that dominate our feeds.

As Gabriel said in this episode:

“It’s humbling to watch people finally feel like there’s a place to have these conversations — a place where people can humanize politics again.”

Long-form conversations make room for nuance.

Nuance makes room for empathy.

Empathy makes room for connection.

Connection makes room for solutions.

That’s the heartbeat of the show.

Why the Messy Middle Matters

The messy middle is not comfortable.

It’s not neat.

It’s not easy.

Being in the middle means you have to acknowledge that your side — your comfort zone — might have blind spots. It means recognizing that someone else, someone raised differently, someone shaped by a different neighborhood or childhood or church or trauma, may see the world differently… and may still have something true to say.

In Episode 65, we reflected on what we’ve seen:

• People willing to share perspectives they rarely get to articulate
• People with opposing worldviews discovering shared humanity
• People who disagree learning to disagree without dehumanizing
• People willing to “sit in the tension” rather than run from it

The messy middle isn’t the absence of conflict — it’s the transformation of conflict into conversation.

Episode Highlights: Conversations That Defined Who We Are

We spent a good portion of this episode looking back at some of the most quintessential Town Square conversations — the ones that best represent what we long to do.

Here are some of the standouts we discussed:

Stephanie Lindsey — Courage in the Heat of Controversy

When Newton County’s political climate hit a boiling point, Attorney Stephanie Lindsey walked into our studio with indictments swirling around her name. She sat down, face-to-face, and said:

“Here’s my perspective. Here’s my experience. Here’s my truth.”

No filters.

No rehearsed lines.

No political posturing.

That’s the messy middle. And it took guts.

Marshall McCart — A Different Lens, Same Community

Marshall brought a completely different worldview — politically, culturally, journalistically — and shared it with calmness, self-awareness, and curiosity.

Two very different guests.

Two very different perspectives.

Same table.

Same willingness to talk.

Same messy middle.

Serra Hall — Cutting Through Economic Development Myths

People often assume economic development leaders only want “more chicken restaurants” or fast food chains. Serra clarified misconceptions, explained markets, and shared metrics that most residents have never heard.

That episode helped people understand governance instead of assuming conspiracy.

CEO JaNice Van Ness — Switching Parties and Standing Firm

Few political decisions generate shockwaves like switching parties. The moment JaNice changed her affiliation, the comment sections erupted.

Her episode let people hear why — not the rumor version, but the real version.

Information replaced misinformation.

Understanding replaced speculation.

DEI Episode — Listening Beyond Labels

One of the most formative episodes for Trey personally was our DEI discussion. Gabriel shared what DEI feels like from the inside — not as a political talking point, but as lived experience formed by family history, community dynamics, and racial realities Trey had never personally navigated.

It didn’t change every opinion.

It didn’t erase every disagreement.

But it changed the lens.

And that’s the power of empathy.

DA Randy McGinley & Attorney Kamau Mason — Partners in Solving Youth Gun Violence

Opposite sides of the courtroom.

Opposite life experiences.

Opposite professional roles.

And yet, they came to us together to say:

“There is a problem. We need to talk about it.”

It was raw, honest, and deeply important.

Why Avoiding Hard Topics Hurt Us — And Why We Won’t Do It

We grew up hearing:

“Don’t talk about religion or politics.”

Worst advice ever.

Avoidance doesn’t create harmony — it creates ignorance.

Avoidance doesn’t protect relationships — it erodes trust.

Avoidance doesn’t maintain peace — it builds pressure until it explodes.

The messy middle is our antidote to avoidance.

It’s where:

• Misunderstanding gives way to clarity
• Assumptions give way to truth
• Stereotypes give way to stories
• Hatred gives way to humanity

Why Misinformation Is Our Enemy

As Gabriel said:

“You’ll think everything is a conspiracy when you don’t know how things work.”

We’re not here to tell people what to believe.

We’re here to help them understand how things work so they can believe responsibly.

Every time someone listens and says,

“I had no idea — that really helps,”

we win.

Every time a narrative shifts from rumors to reality,

we win.

Every time someone says,

“I don’t agree with them, but now I understand them,”

we win.

The Power of Story: Race, Upbringing, and Seeing Each Other Clearly

Some of the most moving parts of Episode 65 were the personal stories — moments where Trey and Gabriel reflected on how their upbringings shaped them differently.

Gabriel grew up in North Omaha — a historically Black community — surrounded by stories shaped by Jim Crow, racial injustice, and generational trauma.

Trey grew up in rural Newton County, shaped by a different world entirely.

Neither experience is universal.

Neither experience is complete by itself.

But together, they create understanding.

This is what the messy middle does:

It forces us to see that our worldviews are shaped by worlds we didn’t choose.

Empathy is born the moment we say,

“I hadn’t lived that — but I’m willing to listen.”

Gratitude: The Unexpected Theme of Episode 65

Because this episode airs the week before Thanksgiving, we leaned into gratitude. Deep, honest gratitude.

And here are the things we named:

1.   We’re thankful for Newton County.

This community listens, engages, critiques, celebrates, and cares.

It’s why this show exists.

2.   We’re thankful for our guests.

From elected officials to nonprofit leaders, pastors to police chiefs, activists to influencers — they have trusted us with their stories, even when the topics were emotional or controversial.

3.   We’re thankful for our listeners.

Thousands of Newtonians who genuinely want our county to thrive — and who seek understanding instead of outrage.

4.   We’re thankful for our sponsors.

People who don’t just write checks, but say:

“We believe in what you’re doing — how can we support you?”

5.   We’re thankful for our families.

Because behind every community leader are spouses, children, and loved ones who sacrifice time, energy, and privacy so we can serve publicly.

From Trey’s daughter in the U.S. Marine Corps, to twins about to graduate, to a milestone marriage… to Gabe’s journey through spiritual warfare, near-death health scares, emotional survival, and God’s sustaining grace — this episode held nothing back.

Gabe’s Story: Gratitude for Survival

One of the most powerful parts of Episode 65 came when Gabriel reflected on the past year — a year marked by ambulance rides, heart attack scares, emotional trauma, spiritual attacks, and relentless challenges.

His honesty wasn’t dramatic.

It was pastoral.

Human.

Real.

Sitting in the back of an ambulance the day after his 45th birthday, texting his family goodbye “just in case,” he realized how fragile and precious life is — and how thankful he is simply to still be here.

As Trey reminded him, transparency is ministry.

And his survival is a testimony.

The Bond Between Hosts: Brothers in the Middle

One of the most moving parts of this episode was the acknowledgment of the brotherhood formed between Trey and Gabriel.

Behind the scenes — in parking lots, over late-night calls, through hard seasons, during moments of doubt or exhaustion — this friendship became a lifeline.

This podcast is stronger because the friendship behind it is stronger.

Looking Ahead: The Next Era of Messy Middle Conversations

We’re just getting started.

In Episode 65, we dreamed aloud about what’s next:

• Bringing people with opposing views into the same room
• Modeling real, respectful debate
• Addressing growth, development, schools, public safety, and local politics with honesty
• Offering clarity without agenda
• Building a healthier civic culture in Newton County
• Preparing for massive 2026 elections
• Exploring new voices, new sectors, and new perspectives

The messy middle is evolving — and we’re committed to remain right there in the thick of it.

Referenced Episodes You May Want to Revisit

Here are the episodes we directly referenced or discussed:

🎙️ Randy McGinley & Kamu Mason – Teen Gun Violence Conversation

A rare, powerful conversation between a prosecutor and defense attorney.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e48-randy-mcginley-kamau-mason-teen-gun-violence

🎙️ Attorney Stephanie Lindsey – On Indictments & Perspective

A bold, messy, courageous conversation about truth and narrative.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e32-stephanie-lindsey-newton-boc-district-3

🎙️ Marshall McCart – Piedmont Chronicles and Another Viewpoint

A viewpoint from the opposite side of the political spectrum.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e55-marshall-mccart-the-piedmont-chronicles

🎙️ Serra Hall – Newton County Industrial Development Authority

Clearing rumors and explaining how local economic development really works.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e11-serra-hall-newton-ida

🎙️ CEO JaNice Van Ness – Why She Switched Parties

A transparent look at a controversial political decision.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e62-janice-vanness-rockdale-county-commissioner-peachtree

🎙️ DEI Conversation – Trey & Gabriel

A vulnerable, deeply personal discussion about race, empathy, and experience.

https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/episodes/e28-the-dei-debate

Advertisers Featured in Episode 65

Luther Rice College & Seminary

Affordable, flexible theological education founded on Scripture.

Website: www.LutherRice.edu

RE/MAX Around Atlanta – LeAnne Long

Expert real estate service with deep Newton County knowledge.

Website: www.leanne-long.com

Appalachia Group Insurance

Local, trusted insurance agency serving families and businesses.

Email Bobby@appgroupins.com

Final Thoughts: Gratitude for the Journey

As Episode 65 closes, Trey and Gabriel wrap up with pure, unfiltered gratitude.

Gratitude for each other.

Gratitude for their families.

Gratitude for their faith.

Gratitude for their community.

Gratitude for the chance to sit at this table, week after week, inviting Newton County into the messy middle.

This podcast isn’t perfect — and it shouldn’t be.

It’s human.

It’s honest.

It’s messy.

It’s real.

And that’s exactly what makes it powerful.

Happy Thanksgiving, Newton County.

From the Town Square Podcast — we are grateful for you.

On this special Veterans Day edition of The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey sits down with Captain Bret Dunn, a Newton County native whose life story reads like a roadmap of service, faith, and conviction. Dunn grew up between Oak Hill and Mansfield, graduated from Alcovy High School in 2013, earned his law degree from Mercer University, and went on to serve as a U.S. Marine Corps officer—eventually becoming a defense counsel at Parris Island.

Now a partner at Strauss & Dunn Law Firm and the Republican candidate for Georgia Senate District 42, Capt. Dunn brings his military discipline, courtroom experience, and faith-driven values into a new kind of battlefield: public service.

In this hour-long conversation, Trey and Bret explore his journey from Mansfield to Quantico, from defending Marines to defending Georgians, and from carrying a rifle to carrying a calling. The uniform may be off, but as he says, “the mission is still the same.”

Growing Up Southern Strong

Bret Dunn’s story begins in Mansfield, Georgia—a “Mayberry-style” small town where neighbors wave, manners matter, and your reputation follows you through every front porch.

Raised between his mother’s home in Mansfield and his father’s house in the Oak Hill area, Bret learned discipline early. His father, Jackie Dunn, served as a Marine before spending 37 years as a police captain in Conyers. The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor symbol was a constant presence in their home, as was the sound of “Yes sir” and “No ma’am.”

“Those little things—manners, respect, accountability—laid the foundation for something much bigger,” Bret recalls. “You didn’t say yeah or nah in my house. You said yes sir or no sir.”

A proud product of the Newton County School System, Bret attended Oak Hill Elementary, Veterans Middle, and graduated from Alcovy High School’s Class of 2013. His formative years in Newton County shaped his work ethic and small-town values—qualities he says have never left him, even as his path took him into some of the world’s toughest environments.

Answering the Call: From Mercer to the Marines

Like many who grow up under the shadow of the American flag, Bret knew service was in his future—but he wasn’t always sure how.

After earning his undergraduate degree from Georgia State University, he felt a tug toward military service. Yet when he first tried to enter the Marine Corps in 2015, the timing wasn’t right. Fitness and recruitment standards were high amid federal budget cuts, and Bret found himself temporarily shut out.

But as he says, “Every time I tried to do something that God didn’t want me to do, I failed at it.”

Instead, a Marine Corps officer encouraged him to consider law. That conversation changed everything. Bret enrolled at Mercer University’s School of Law in Macon, joining a long line of “Bears” who have shaped Georgia’s judiciary—including Judge Sammy Ozburn, Judge John Ott, and former Governor Nathan Deal.

Between his second and third year of law school, Bret entered Officer Candidate School at Marine Corps Base Quantico. On June 1, 2019, he stepped onto the famous yellow footprints that have tested generations of Marines. Ten weeks later, he earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant.

“I came home from Quantico on a Saturday,” he remembers, “and by Monday morning, I was back in evidence class at Mercer. One day I’m doing pushups in the Virginia humidity; two days later I’m highlighting case law.”

After passing the Georgia Bar Exam on his first try, Bret received orders to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, where he would serve as a Defense Counsel—representing Marines in courts-martial, administrative hearings, and boards of inquiry. Over time, he rose to the rank of Captain, blending his love of justice with the Marine ethos of “Semper Fidelis”—Always Faithful.

Veterans Day: Honoring Service and Sacrifice

It’s fitting that Episode 64 airs on Veterans Day, a holiday that carries deep meaning for Capt. Dunn.

“Memorial Day is for those who gave their lives,” he says. “Veterans Day is for those who served and came home. The best thing anyone can do for a veteran is to simply say thank you—and to pray for them.”

Bret speaks candidly about the invisible wounds of war, about the friends who came home from Iraq and Afghanistan only to struggle with loss and disillusionment.

“There are folks right here in our community who are still hurting,” he says. “A simple thank you might be what keeps them going another day.”

From Court Martial to Courtroom: A Calling to Defend

Today, Capt. Dunn wears a different kind of uniform: a suit and tie. But his mission remains the same.

At Strauss & Dunn Law Firm, he represents clients in criminal and civil cases throughout Georgia—and still defends service members when called upon.

“When King Nebuchadnezzar looked into the fiery furnace and saw a fourth man, that’s how I see my job,” Bret says. “When someone’s in trouble, I’m that fourth man standing beside them.”

For Dunn, law isn’t just a career; it’s a calling.

“My goal is always to return someone to society better than I found them. Sometimes I represent people who are innocent, and that’s terrifying. Other times they’ve made mistakes and need redemption. Either way, my duty is the same—to defend, to guide, and to point them toward Christ.”

Faith and Humility: The Foundation for Leadership

When Trey asks how his Marine Corps experience and faith intersect with politics, Bret answers without hesitation: “The greatest leader who ever lived was Jesus Christ.”

He tells the story of Christ washing the disciples’ feet in the upper room—a picture of servant leadership that shaped his understanding of public service.

“Jesus wasn’t about titles; He was about towels,” Bret says. “If you want to lead, you have to serve first.”

The Marine Corps taught him humility—a trait he calls his “secret weapon.” He’s learned to let opponents underestimate him and to rely on grace rather than ego.

“I don’t need to be called ‘Senator’ or ‘Captain,’” he laughs. “Just call me Bret.”

District 42: A Cross-Section of Georgia

Georgia’s Senate District 42 covers most of Newton County, all of Morgan County, and portions of Walton and Henry counties—including Mansfield, Covington, Social Circle, and the Ola-McDonough corridor.

It’s a district that mirrors the state’s mix of rural values and suburban growth—what Bret calls “a real cross-section of Georgia.”

He’s quick to note that while the new district leans conservative, his campaign is about serving everyone, not just Republicans.

“I’m here to serve God’s people,” he says. “Those folks aren’t all Republican—and that’s fine. I’ll listen to anyone who loves this community and wants to make it better.”

Bret envisions bringing together law-enforcement leaders from each county—Democrat and Republican alike—to strengthen public safety and share resources.

“Safety isn’t partisan,” he insists. “Everybody deserves to live in a place that’s safe.”

Back the Blue – and Lead with Courage

With a father who spent nearly four decades in law enforcement, Bret’s respect for police officers runs deep. He still wears a Back the Blue bracelet every day—not for show, but as a reminder of his mission.

“I wear it so I never forget who I’m fighting for,” he says. “These men and women go to work every day not knowing if they’ll come home. The least we can do is have their back.”

He points to Georgia Senator Brian Strickland’s pending bill to expand workers’-comp benefits for officers injured in the line of duty, calling it “the kind of common-sense legislation we need more of.”

“An officer like Matt Cooper shouldn’t have to fight through red tape after being shot in the line of duty,” Bret says. “Government should take care of those who take care of us.”

Faith in the Public Square

Throughout the conversation, Bret returns repeatedly to one theme: faith belongs in the public square.

“For too long, the church sat on the sidelines,” he says. “When Christians stepped back, culture filled the void. It’s time for believers to engage again—with grace, conviction, and courage.”

He quotes the Georgia Constitution’s preamble, which acknowledges “the providence of Almighty God,” and argues that America’s strength has always been rooted in Judeo-Christian values.

“Dads should be priests in their homes,” he says. “If fathers lead with faith, families get stronger—and when families get stronger, communities thrive.”

Family First: Raising Jack in a Better World

Bret and his wife Kennedy recently welcomed their first child, Jack—a life-changing blessing that gives new urgency to his sense of mission.

“People always tell you your life will change when you have a kid,” he smiles. “But until you hold that baby, you can’t understand it. Now I wake up every day thinking, ‘What kind of world am I leaving for Jack?’”

That question fuels his campaign. For Dunn, the fight for faith, family, and freedom isn’t abstract—it’s personal.

“We can’t just focus on the next life,” he says. “God gave us dominion here, too. We’re called to make this world better.”

Standing for Life, Family, and Freedom

As the conversation deepens, Bret doesn’t shy away from controversial issues. His convictions are clear:

• Pro-Life: “As long as babies are being murdered in this country, I’ve got a mission,” he declares. He identifies as an abolitionist, supporting legal protections for the unborn with exceptions only for the health of the mother.
• Strengthening Families: Dunn calls fatherlessness “a crisis in America” and advocates for family-court reforms that treat mothers and fathers equally. “We need a presumption of joint custody,” he says. “Kids need both parents.”
• Opposing DEI Mandates: Drawing from his Marine Corps experience, Bret critiques “diversity, equity, and inclusion” policies that he says prioritize ideology over merit. “We’re fixing things that aren’t broken,” he argues. “Merit matters.”
• Protecting Parental Rights: He supports legislation allowing parents to opt their children out of school curricula involving gender ideology or other sensitive content. “Parents—not bureaucrats—should decide what their kids are exposed to.”
• Defending the Second Amendment: As a Marine and gun-rights advocate, Bret sees the right to bear arms as a safeguard against tyranny. “The Second Amendment wasn’t written for hunters,” he explains. “It’s there to keep government in check.”

These aren’t talking points; they’re convictions forged through experience—in uniform, in courtrooms, and in prayer.

“Before I cast any vote,” he promises, “I’ll consult with God Almighty first.”

Hope and Revival in District 42

Despite his concerns about moral decay and political division, Capt. Dunn sees reason for hope.

“Since September 10th, when Charlie Kirk was murdered, I’ve seen more young men coming back to church than ever before,” he says. “There’s a revival sweeping this country.”

He points to a new generation of civic and spiritual leaders in the region—sheriffs like Keith Brooks in Walton County and Tyler Hooks in Morgan County, and commissioners like LeAnne Long and Stan Edwards in Newton County—who, he says, “have the backbone to stand up for what’s right.”

He applauds Newton County’s data-center oversight and praises the Newton County School System for its new Workforce Development Framework, which introduces career readiness as early as kindergarten.

“Not everybody needs college,” he notes. “We need welders, electricians, and truck drivers. Teaching real-world skills is the halftime adjustment Georgia needed.”

A Campaign Rooted in Gratitude

As endorsements pour in from veterans, sheriffs, and district attorneys, Bret remains grounded.

“I don’t like to use the word ‘proud,’” he says. “I’m thankful. Every relationship is a blessing, and every door God opens is one I want to walk through faithfully.”

He references his ever-present “Bret’s Maxims” notebook, filled with lessons and quotes collected along the way. One entry sums up his philosophy:

“The principles you live by will determine the world you live in.”

When he took off the Marine uniform in 2024, Bret wondered what came next. But as he prayed, he says God made it clear: this was his next mission.

“When God shuts a door, don’t crawl through a window,” he laughs. “He opened this one, and I’m walking through it.”

The Mission Continues

As the conversation closes, Trey Bailey thanks Bret for his service—both military and civic—and for the way his faith guides his leadership.

“You can tell your values just bleed out of you,” Trey says. “They’re impossible to hide.”

Bret smiles. “The uniform came off,” he says, “but the mission is the same—to glorify God, serve people, and leave this community better than I found it.”

For listeners across Newton County and beyond, it’s a reminder that true leadership doesn’t begin in the Capitol—it begins at home, with humility, conviction, and a servant’s heart.

Where to Learn More and Connect

To learn more about Capt. Bret Dunn’s campaign for Georgia Senate District 42, visit

👉 DunnForGeorgia.com

Follow him on social media:

• Facebook – @DunnForGeorgia
• Instagram – @BretDunnGA

And listen to the full episode of The Town Square Podcast on

🎧 TheTownSquarePodcast.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

Sponsors & Community Partners

This episode of The Town Square Podcast is brought to you by three incredible partners who share our mission to build a better Newton County:

1. Luther Rice College & Seminary - Equipping men and women to minister with excellence since 1962.
2. RE/MAX Around Atlanta - Your trusted local experts for buying or selling homes throughout Newton County and beyond.
3. Appalachia Group Insurance - Protecting what matters most with personal and business coverage tailored to your needs.

Closing Thought

Capt. Bret Dunn embodies the very ideals The Town Square Podcast seeks to highlight—faithful service, moral courage, and love of community. From the courtroom to the campaign trail, his life testifies that honor, humility, and hope still matter.

This Veterans Day, and every day, may we remember that leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about towels. And for Capt. Bret Dunn, both in uniform and out, the towel of service is still in his hands.

Every community has those moments when social media explodes and rumors outpace reality. For Covington, Georgia, that moment came when the city council voted to purchase property from Cinelease/Three Ring Studios—a move that set keyboards ablaze across Newton County. Many residents wondered: Was the city bailing out the studio? Was this another taxpayer burden?

So this week on The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey sat down with Travis Moore, East Ward Post 2 Councilman, to get the story straight from the source. Moore is known for his transparency, his calm on social media, and his willingness to explain city decisions in plain language.

This conversation also dove into another hot-button issue: the new ordinance banning for-profit cemetery tours in Covington. After a video went viral, emotions ran high, accusations flew, and Moore once again found himself clarifying facts online—and ultimately casting the council’s lone “no” vote.

In true Town Square fashion, Trey and Travis unpacked both stories in the “messy middle,” where nuance replaces outrage and facts matter more than Facebook.

Setting the Scene: A Councilman Who Actually Communicates

Before tackling controversy, Trey opened with appreciation. In an era when public officials often hide behind press releases, Moore has built a reputation for directly communicating with citizens after each council meeting.

“You’re setting the bar for how we should communicate as public servants,” Trey told him.

Moore laughed, modestly noting that he just likes to “be out there with the folks.” Whether it’s concerts, movie nights, or ribbon cuttings, he’s visible—and online, he’s transparent. After every meeting, he posts the highlights, summarizes the votes, and explains his reasoning.

It’s the kind of grassroots accountability residents say they want—and the kind that probably explains why his Facebook posts often calm storms before they turn into political hurricanes.

The Cinelease Purchase: What Really Happened

The Need for Consolidation

At the heart of the Cinelease story wasn’t Hollywood drama—it was logistics.

Covington’s utility departments were scattered all over town: electric trucks here, gas meters rented from a warehouse off Cook Road, poles and transformers stored elsewhere. It was inefficient, costly, and frustrating.

“We needed to consolidate,” Moore explained. “Get all our materials, trucks, and departments in one place.”

So the city put out a Request for Proposals (RFP) to find property suitable for a centralized utilities complex. Several options surfaced, but the Cinelease/Three Ring property—roughly 20 acres with two 36,000-square-foot buildings—offered the most space for the same price as smaller alternatives.

The $15 Million Price Tag

The agreed purchase price hovered around $15 to $16 million. As soon as that figure hit the local paper, the Facebook comment sections caught fire. The narrative? The city was using tax dollars to bail out a struggling studio it once helped attract.

“I could see the tar being heated up,” Moore said with a grin. “We needed to cool the temperature down.”

So he jumped online and clarified the facts.

No, It Wasn’t Paid with Taxpayer Money

The purchase did not use property-tax funds or utility-rate hikes. Instead, it was financed through MEAG Power—the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia—and the Municipal Competitive Trust, commonly called the MCT fund.

Here’s the short version:

• Covington buys wholesale electricity from MEAG.
• Each year, MEAG reconciles its budget. If it collected more than it spent, cities get a refund.
• Covington has historically received money back.
• Rather than spend it, the city deposited those refunds into the MCT Trust—a kind of utility savings account.

“It’s not baked into the city’s annual budget,” Moore explained. “We didn’t raise rates or dip into taxpayer funds. We used money already saved for utility needs.”

That trust can only be used for utility-related projects, such as infrastructure or debt service. In this case, the purchase perfectly fit that criteria.

Why This Property Made Sense

The new complex will:

• Eliminate monthly rent for the warehouse on Cook Road.
• Speed up response times for outages by housing crews and materials together.
• Improve safety and inventory control with fencing, lighting, and cameras.
• Provide a modern, efficient base for Covington’s utility departments.

Construction and relocation are slated to wrap by April or May 2026, saving taxpayers money while improving service delivery.

“It just makes things more efficient,” Moore said. “You’ll see faster repairs, fewer delays, and less wasted time.”

That’s the kind of behind-the-scenes decision that rarely trends online—but makes a real difference when the lights go out during a storm.

The Cemetery Ordinance: Respect, Revenue, and Rumors

How It Started

Then came controversy #2—the cemetery tour ban.

A short video surfaced showing a local ghost tour group walking through Covington’s historic cemetery at night. The clip, though brief, ignited outrage among residents who felt the deceased were being disrespected. The comments grew heated; rumors spread that tourists were trampling graves or filming horror scenes among headstones.

Soon, the City Council drafted an ordinance:

• No for-profit tours in city cemeteries.
• Visiting hours changed to dawn-to-dusk.
• No filming without permission.

The ordinance passed 5-to-1. Moore was the one “no” vote.

What Travis Saw

“I’ve been on that tour,” he said. “It was done respectfully.”

He described how guides instructed participants to stay on the paths, avoid touching headstones, and treat the grounds with reverence. The tours, he emphasized, have been operating for years, long before the current administration, often sharing stories of local history more than ghost lore.

When the viral video hit, Moore watched as rhetoric escalated online—and then spilled offline. The business owner behind the tours even had to hire private security after receiving threats.

“That’s just unfortunate,” Moore said. “Even if you don’t agree with a local business, they’re still our neighbors.”

Savannah Has Them—Why Not Covington?

Trey pointed out that cities like Savannah thrive on historic and ghost tours. Those excursions blend entertainment with education—“edutainment,” as Trey put it. Moore agreed, noting that Covington’s cemetery holds deep historical significance dating back generations—including his own family’s graves.

“As a seventh-generation Covington resident,” he said, “I’ve got family buried there. And I’ve never seen those tours be anything but respectful.”

Why He Voted “No”

Moore saw the ordinance as reactionary—born more from outrage than evidence.

“The rhetoric was blaming the tours,” he said. “But they weren’t breaking any laws. And meanwhile, thousands of visitors still walk through the cemetery every year.”

He pointed out the inconsistency: casual visitors can still stroll the cemetery, take pictures, and explore history—but one licensed, small business can’t guide people through for profit.

“It felt one-sided,” Moore said. “And it sends a message that Covington might not be welcoming.”

That perception matters. Many downtown merchants have told Moore that visitor spending is what keeps their doors open. If Covington gains a reputation as unfriendly to tourists, small businesses—restaurants, boutiques, galleries—will feel the pinch.

“We’re a destination city,” Moore reminded listeners. “Tourism is vital. Let’s not lose sight of that.”

The Business of Being Business-Friendly

Moore’s advocacy for small business isn’t theoretical. He leads the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), regularly hosting “Travis Around Town” visits to highlight local shops and entrepreneurs.

From Your Pie to Roots Boutique, he believes in championing the people who make downtown vibrant.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the community,” he said. “If it weren’t for our visitors, many wouldn’t survive.”

He listed new projects in motion:

• Billy’s Bites & Brews, a new sandwich shop next to Social Goat, filling the lunch gap left by the closing of Plain Nuts.
• A microbrewery under construction in the old Ramsey Furniture building.
• Plans for a food hall-style market beside it—similar to Atlanta’s Ponce City Market.
• New event space behind Your Pie, opening January 2026.

“We’ve already filled two or three downtown vacancies this year,” he said. “And we’re just getting started.”

Add to that the long-anticipated Target development near Covington Town Center and upcoming infrastructure upgrades to the Square—way-finding signs, landscaping, underground utilities—and the city’s momentum is undeniable.

Transparency and Trust: How Government Should Work

Trey steered the conversation toward governance itself—specifically, the role of communication in building public trust.

“The worst thing you can do is be silent,” Moore replied.

After each council meeting, he sits down, types up a digestible summary, and posts it online. He doesn’t include every line item (“If we approved a bucket truck, that’s great for the electric department, but not headline news,” he joked). Instead, he focuses on big-picture votes—rezonings, ordinances, developments—and, crucially, he tells residents how he voted and why.

That approach often earns him respect even from those who disagree.

“Some folks tell me, ‘I don’t agree with your vote, but I appreciate you explaining it,’” he said. “That means a lot.”

Trey agreed, noting how that transparency diffuses misinformation before it festers.

“It goes a long way,” he said. “Just being open builds trust.”

For residents wanting to stay informed, Moore offered simple advice: watch meetings online, read council summaries, and reach out directly. He answers Facebook messages, texts, and calls.

“Accessibility is intentional,” he said. “I want people to be able to reach me anytime.”

Looking Ahead: The Vision for Covington

Asked about his hopes for the future, Moore’s priorities were clear:

1. Keep tourism thriving.
2. Fill downtown vacancies.
3. Complete infrastructure upgrades on the square.
4. Attract more retail and boutique businesses.

“We have 2.5 million annual visits to the downtown square,” he said. “That’s incredible foot traffic. And people love to eat and shop.”

He’d like to see more variety in retail, to balance the “Vampire Diaries” nostalgia with everyday local commerce. And he’s optimistic that new anchors like Target will reduce “retail leakage” to neighboring counties.

“When I grew up, downtown shut down at 5 o’clock,” he reminisced. “Now it’s alive. I’d rather have this problem than empty storefronts.”

Closing Thoughts: Living in the Messy Middle

As the episode wrapped, Trey thanked Moore for showing up quickly—literally dropping everything to bring clarity to two stories dominating local conversation.

“That’s what this show’s about,” Trey said. “We don’t live on the extremes. We talk it out in the messy middle.”

Moore smiled, happy to have had the chance to clear the air.

“Hopefully this wasn’t clear as mud,” he joked.

But it wasn’t. It was Covington, clarified.

Episode Takeaways

• Cinelease Purchase: The $15 million property buy was not funded by taxes but by MEAG/MCT utility reserves. It consolidates city utilities, saving time and money.
• Cemetery Ordinance: Moore cast the only “no” vote, arguing the ban unfairly targeted a long-standing local business and could hurt tourism.
• Downtown Growth: New restaurants, breweries, and event spaces are filling vacancies as Covington prepares for major infrastructure updates in 2026.
• Transparency: Moore’s habit of explaining his votes online has become a model for open local government.

Links & Sponsors

Support the local businesses that make The Town Square Podcast possible:

Rapid Tax Services – Fast, affordable tax prep with integrity. Call 678-658-8601 or visit TaxPrepRTS.com

Main Street Land & Properties – Your trusted partner for residential and commercial real estate. Stop by 2141 Emory Street NW in Covington or visit MSLAP.com

Bizzy Bee Exterminators – Locally owned and operated, keeping Newton County bug-free for over 20 years. Call 770-787-3718 or visit BizzyBeeExterminators.com

📈 From Capitol Hill to the Courthouse: A Life of Service

With a degree in Political Science and International Relations from Auburn University, JaNice’s story began far from Rockdale—on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., where she interned and later worked for U.S. Senators Alan Dixon and Howell Heflin. That experience lit a spark for service but also revealed that calling didn’t always come with a sustainable paycheck. Returning home to Georgia, JaNice entered the world of education and business, which eventually led to her founding Peachtree Academy—a Christian school now serving families from pre-K through 12th grade with multiple campuses.

Her public service career began with a Rockdale County Commission seat in 2005, followed by a successful election to the Georgia State Senate (District 43), representing Rockdale, Newton, and DeKalb counties. A deeply relational campaigner, she prioritized meeting people where they were—often at grocery stores and community events.

📝 Political Labels, Real-World Leadership

In one of the podcast’s most candid moments, JaNice shares her reasoning behind switching political parties—moving from Republican to Democrat—and how that move wasn’t about ideology, but community impact. She explains:

“A pothole is a pothole—there’s no Republican or Democrat version of that.”

Her campaign slogan, “Clean Up the Mess, Vote Van Ness,” reflects her centrist approach. She doesn’t fit neatly into a partisan box, and she prefers it that way. Her focus is simple: responsible budgeting, lower taxes, public safety, and community well-being.

💲 Budgeting Like It’s Personal

Rockdale County’s budget nearly doubled in 10 years—from $58 million in 2014 to $123 million today. As a business owner and former finance committee member, JaNice brings a fiscal discipline that’s often missing in politics.

She led efforts to: - Roll back the county’s millage rate from 18.68 to 18.282 - Conduct deep internal reviews of vehicle fleet spending - Empower citizens via a Financial Oversight Committee - Increase pay for first responders and public safety staff

Van Ness sees herself as a steward of the community’s tax dollars—focused on outcomes, not just programs. “Some government jobs feel more like employment programs,” she quips, “but we’ve got to stay outcome-focused.”

✨ Faith, Family & Peachtree Academy

JaNice’s business, Peachtree Academy, began as a passion for quality Christian education. Over time, it grew into a multi-campus private school and early childhood center. But she’s quick to say that her mission isn’t elitism—it’s service.

“We’re not in an elitist environment. We’re a community of families who prioritize education.”

Peachtree Academy is also a launching ground for local churches, with seven church plants launched from its campuses over the years. JaNice sees spiritual and educational growth as intertwined and believes the local church is a crucial part of any healthy community.

🤝 Bridging Counties, Building Community

With Rockdale and Newton Counties often sharing economic, educational, and cultural challenges, JaNice emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration. Whether it’s economic development (like supplier growth from the Rivian project), local churches, nonprofits, or shared infrastructure concerns, she believes the future is about “good neighbors across county lines.”

⚖️ Redefining Leadership: From Candy Striper to County CEO

Her leadership story is grounded in real-life service. She began volunteering as a candy striper at Rockdale Hospital and shelving books at Nancy Guinn Library. That foundation led to her now holding one of the highest offices in the county—Chair and CEO of Rockdale County. She’s now passionate about grooming the next generation of servant leaders, launching new citizen advisory boards and dreaming of a “So You Want to Serve?” forum for aspiring civic leaders.

“Don’t just win. Serve.”

🎾 Pickleball & Purpose

When she’s not leading commission meetings or mentoring community leaders, JaNice recharges on the pickleball court. The county is even expanding pickleball facilities to keep up with demand—a small but powerful example of her community-centered leadership style.

💬 Want to Contact Chairwoman Van Ness?

·      📧 County Email: JaNice.VanNess@RockdaleCountyGA.gov

·      🏢 County Website: rockdalecountyga.gov

Peachtree Academy

- 📈 peachtreeacademy.com

- 📧 janice@peachtreeacademy.com

Personal Website:

- 👥 janicevanness.com

📚 Related Links & Resources:

·      Rockdale Board of Commissioners Info: rockdalecountyga.gov

·      Learn about Peachtree Academy: peachtreeacademy.com

·      JaNice’s leadership journey: janicevanness.com

🎓 Brought to You By Our Sponsors

⚡ Appalachia Group Insurance

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🐜 Bizzy Bee Exterminators

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🔗 Listen or Watch the Full Episode:

YouTube: @TheTownSquarePodcast

Apple Podcasts & Spotify: The Town Square Podcast

#TownSquarePodcast #JaNiceVanNess #RockdaleCounty #GeorgiaPolitics #MessyMiddle #PeachtreeAcademy #ServantLeadership #FiscalResponsibility #LocalGovernment #BetterTogether

Following Dr. Bradley in the second half of the episode are two of the framework’s architects—Dr. Shannon Buff, Executive Director of School Leadership, and Dr. Tim Schmitt, Director of CTAE and Workforce Innovation. Together, they unpack how this framework is being woven into the DNA of Newton County Schools, in partnership with local industry, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Industrial Development Authority.

🎯 Why It Matters: A Modern Vision for Public Education

Dr. Bradley opens the episode with a simple but profound question: What does it mean for a public school system to truly prepare students for life after high school? For him, the answer lies in creating a “launchpad of opportunity”—not a one-size-fits-all pathway, but a flexible and personalized framework that gives students a head start on their future. Whether a student wants to be a welder, a nurse, an accountant, or an engineer, they should be able to start exploring those paths long before graduation.

This isn’t theoretical. The framework is already in motion. And it’s not just about workforce training—Bradley emphasizes that it’s about clarity, access, exposure, and achievement. It’s about helping students discover their gifts and guiding them toward a career that excites them.

🧱 The Framework: Exposure → Exploration → Experience

The Workforce Development Framework is organized into three progressive stages:

• Exposure (Grades K–5):
• Young learners are introduced to careers through hands-on experiences, guest speakers, and play-based activities. Dr. Schmitt notes that kids “can’t be what they can’t see,” so schools are working to connect lessons with real-world applications. Think counting with golf balls made at Bridgestone or learning sorting using parts from a local automotive plant.
• Exploration (Grades 6–8):
• Middle schoolers begin to explore more defined career clusters. They visit local industries, attend career days, and start seeing the real-life applications of classroom content. At this stage, students are encouraged to ask, “What do I like?” and “What am I good at?”
• Experience (Grades 9–12):
• High school students can participate in CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education) pathways, dual enrollment with colleges, and work-based learning. They can graduate with industry-recognized credentials, early college credit, or even certifications that lead directly to high-wage employment.

🏗️ Building a Workforce Pipeline that Starts in Kindergarten

What makes Newton County’s approach stand out is its start-early, dream-big philosophy. Instead of waiting until high school to begin thinking about careers, the system introduces students to real-life jobs starting in kindergarten. From learning soft skills like communication and teamwork to exploring emerging industries like aviation tech and biotech, students are gaining the exposure and confidence they need to make informed choices.

And this isn’t just about “alternatives” to college. As Dr. Buff explains, “This isn’t college or career—it’s college and career.” Whether a student wants to head to a university, enroll in technical school, or jump into the workforce, they’ll be ready with a plan.

🔍 Workforce-Ready Schools & Real-World Partnerships

To institutionalize this shift, the district is introducing a Workforce-Ready School Designation—a recognition for schools that successfully embed workforce preparation into their culture, instruction, and partnerships. The designation includes six areas:

1. Culture of Workforce Readiness
2. Business & Industry Partnerships
3. Exposure, Exploration, and Planning
4. Workforce Readiness Activities
5. Staff Professional Learning
6. Sustainability

From robotics competitions to industry field trips, from soft skill certification in 3rd grade to engineering dual enrollment in 11th, schools will be recognized for doing the deep work of preparing students for life beyond graduation.

📈 Measurable Outcomes & Statewide Attention

This isn’t just talk. The framework includes clear goals and metrics—and it’s already drawing attention across the state. Georgia State Superintendent Richard Woods, Commissioner Greg Dozier of the Technical College System of Georgia, and Georgia Chamber CEO Chris Clark have all praised Newton County’s efforts.

Dr. Bradley notes that enhancing the work done in the past, the school system is now being seen as a critical partner in economic development—not just producing diplomas, but producing skilled, motivated, and competitive graduates ready for Georgia’s top industries.

💬 Real Students, Real Plans, Real Futures

The passion behind this framework is rooted in stories: the student who never thought college was possible until they passed a dual enrollment English class in their home high school… the 3rd grader who shook a visitor’s hand and proudly declared their dream to be a mechanical engineer… the senior who found their calling not in a textbook, but on a field trip to Takeda’s bioscience lab.

Dr. Buff and Dr. Schmitt share that one of their goals is to eliminate the “I don’t know” answer when students are asked what’s next. Instead, they want every student to leave Newton County Schools with a clear, confident plan—backed by real experiences, real exposure, and real opportunities.

🧠 Reimagining the Role of Schools

In closing, the guests emphasize this is not a trend—it’s a transformation. And it’s being built to last. Through professional development for educators, deep integration with academic curriculum, and authentic community partnerships, the framework is designed to evolve with the needs of the modern world.

As Dr. Bradley says, “If you can create that kind of environment from kindergarten through 12th grade, you change a school system—and a community.”

🛠️ Want to Get Involved?

Whether you’re a parent, a business leader, a nonprofit director, or a community member—there’s a place for you in this vision. Newton County Schools is actively seeking new industry partners, mentors, and career exploration opportunities for students.

If you’re interested in learning more, volunteering, or seeing the full framework document, reach out to the district office or contact the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) team.

🔗 Links & Contact

• 📘 Full Workforce Development Framework – PDF
• 📧 Contact: Dr. Tim Schmitt or Dr. Shannon Buff via the Newton County Schools website
• 🌐 Learn more at newtoncountyschools.org
• 🧑‍🏫 For dual enrollment info, visit gptc.edu, gsu.edu, or lutherrice.edu

🙌 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

🎙️ This episode is made possible by our partners:

• Luther Rice College & Seminary – lutherrice.edu
• Appalachia Group Insurance – Bobby Stevens: 770-728-1880
• Main Street Land and Properties – mslap.com

🎧 Listen to Episode 61 now on:

👉 Apple Podcasts

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📲 And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with your community!

If you’ve never been, think massive community service fair + fall festival + resource clinic + free food + gifts of grace—all in one place, all in one afternoon, all free. It’s the perfect picture of our podcast’s heartbeat: unity, not uniformity—the messy middle made practical.

Episode Snapshot

• What: Change The World Day—Newton County’s signature serve-together event
• When: Saturday, Oct 25, 2025 • 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Where: Covington First United Methodist Church campus (Conyers St., near the Square)
• Why it matters: One day to rally the whole community around compassion, connection, and practical help, while spotlighting year-round ministries like Giving Hands Food Pantry
• Cost: FREE for attendees. Nothing is sold. Everything is offered as a gift.

“Change the World” started as a challenge—now it’s a Newton County tradition

Seventeen years ago, an email landed in Claudia’s inbox—a United Methodist challenge inspired by pastor/author Mike Slaughter’s book Change the World: “Take ministry outside the walls for one day.” Covington First UMC grabbed the baton, learned from year one, and moved the event to Fall to better serve our local rhythm.

From there, it grew—on purpose. Instead of one project, Claudia and a small team imagined a multi-faceted serve daythat could meet real needs, showcase local help, and spark partnerships that last all year. Today, churches, civic groups, nonprofits, schools, health providers, and local businesses flood the campus—each bringing a piece of the puzzle. As Claudia says, “We’re better together.”

What you’ll experience on Oct 25

Easy parking & shuttles. Volunteer golf-cart drivers scoop up guests from surrounding parking areas and drop you right at the action.

Front Campus: Community Service Fair + Fall Fun

• Resource booths from health providers, counselors, civic clubs, schools, recreation, and local businesses
• On-site health services (historically including the Health Department, Piedmont Newton, and Willing Helpers): BP/glucose checks, vaccines & screenings
• Live music from the front steps “stage”
• Free food stations (multiple partner groups pitch in—think sliders, wings, popcorn, iced coffee, and more)
• Zero cost, zero sales—100% hospitality

Back Campus: “Gifts of Grace”

• Giving Hands Food Pantry big-tent “market” with grocery carts so families can shop a curated path of shelf-stable goods and fresh produce (sourced via Atlanta Community Food Bank)
• Warm clothing (racks and racks—adults and kids), blankets, socks, gloves, winter caps, diapers, and hygiene/health kits
• Free haircuts and on-site partners who can connect guests to follow-up resources
• Golf carts help guests get groceries and goods back to their cars

“It’s the happiest day—smiles, hugs, conversations everywhere. You see community.” —Claudia

Why this day unifies Newton County

Change The World Day dissolves the usual lines—denominational, organizational, even “who hosts what.” Claudia is crystal-clear: Covington First UMC simply hosts because the campus can handle the footprint; the entire communitymakes the day work. Groups wear their own swag—you’ll see a sea of shirts from dozens of churches, clubs, teams, schools, and nonprofits. It’s visual unity—one campus, many colors, one mission.

Part of the secret sauce? Networking. For many leaders, CTWD is the one day they’re all in the same place, forging new connections that become co-ops, referrals, and joint projects for the other 364 days.

The year-round engine: Giving Hands Food Pantry

Change The World Day amplifies the daily work of Giving Hands Food Pantry—and Margaret’s team is humming:

• Serving ~200 families every week
• Office hours: Tue–Thu, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (there’s always something happening behind the scenes)
• Fresh produce + grocery staples through partner donations and ACFB
• Volunteers welcome for morning “stock & prep” shifts or afternoon “guest support & loading” shifts
• New 16’ refrigerated box truck (no CDL required) to pick up store donations—drivers needed!

“People leave with dignity—and good food. Volunteers go home tired in the best way.” —Margaret

Get involved: givinghandsfoodpantry.org

Sign up to volunteer, donate, or join the newsletter. (They also list opportunities via Hands On Atlanta.)

How to plug in (before, during, and after)

Right now (before Oct 25):

• Host a 2-week food drive at your church, school, business, or neighborhood (peanut butter, canned vegetables, staples are always winners).
• Make a financial gift to help expand “Gifts of Grace” purchasing power for the big day.
• Offer a booth (service/resource providers): Claudia will find space.

Day-of (Oct 25):

• Just show up with friends, kids, neighbors—11:00 AM–2:00 PM.
• Walk the whole campus (front and back).
• Come hungry (it’s free!) and bring a welcoming smile—hospitality is the vibe.

After the day:

• Adopt Giving Hands for a recurring food drive, monthly volunteer slot, or store-run driving team.
• Book a booth for 2026: Watch for the date at the end of this year; registration typically opens in January at CovingtonFirst.org.
• Partner up—if there’s already “a wheel rolling,” jump on it rather than reinventing.

A story that says it all

One year, a dad tapped Claudia’s arm, coats draped over his shoulders.

“My family comes every year for warm coats.”

That’s the whole point: meet real needs, preserve dignity, and make sure people leave better than they came—body, mind, and soul.

Important Links

• Change The World Day Info & Registration (host site): CovingtonFirst.org
• Giving Hands Food Pantry (volunteer/donate): givinghandsfoodpantry.org
• Hands On Atlanta (find volunteer listings): handsonatlanta.org
• The Town Square Podcast (all episodes & to donate): thetownsquarepodcast.com

Please Like, Subscribe & SHARE

If this episode inspires you, share it on your socials and tag a friend you want beside you on Oct 25. Ratings and reviews on Apple Podcasts and Spotify help more neighbors find the show.

The Town Square Podcast runs on community gifts. If our “messy middle” conversations help strengthen Newton County, consider a one-time gift or a small $2 or $5 monthly donation to keep this local storytelling going:

👉 thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate

Thank You to Our Sponsors

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Busy Bee Exterminators

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Phone: 770-787-3718

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Luther Rice College & Seminary

Biblical, affordable, accredited, 100% online programs for every stage.

Web: lutherrice.edu

Ready to roll up your sleeves? We’ll see you October 25th, 11–2, at Covington First UMC. It will change your world—and ours.

If you’ve driven the Covington Square lately and wondered, “Where did that historic white-columned church go?”—this episode is for you. Dr. Cody McNutt, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Covington, sits down with Trey to walk us—calmly and carefully—through the why, the how, and the what’s-next of FBC’s decision to demolish its 120-year-old sanctuary and rebuild on the same block.

This is more than a construction update. It’s an honest conversation about history, stewardship, theology, hospitality, accessibility, and unity—and why the FBC leadership concluded that the best way to honor a 200-year presence in Newton County was to create space to grow together for the next 100.

“Church buildings come and go and are almost like garments cast off in their season when they no longer suit the congregation.” — Covington News, c.1910, quoted by Dr. McNutt

Not a 200-year-old building—a 200-year-old church

First Baptist Covington (founded in 1823) is nearly as old as Covington itself. Over two centuries, the congregation has worshipped at multiple locations around the Square, eventually purchasing the corner of Floyd & Elm in the early 1900s. The sanctuary we all remember opened around 1910. And like most long-lived churches, the facility went through several significant alterations:

• The original reddish-brown brick exterior (not white), topped by a dome later removed due to leaks.
• Mid-century expansions that blew out the rear wall, added a balcony, and painted over intricate architectural details.
• An annex and education building that helped ministry thrive but also made the campus feel like a downtown hospital—add-on upon add-on—with maze-like wayfinding and difficult access.

Put simply, the sanctuary many of us loved was the building’s third or fourth iteration. What it symbolized was historic; what it provided—capacity, accessibility, and unity—no longer matched the church’s mission.

The long road to a hard decision

This wasn’t sudden. According to Dr. McNutt, FBC voted more than 25 years ago to remain downtown rather than relocate, precisely because they wanted to be “in the city for the city.” When Cody arrived, the church was worshiping in three services (traditional and contemporary) in order to accommodate growth. It “worked,” but it also siloed one congregation into multiple congregations, robbing FBC of the spiritual chemistry that comes from singing, praying, baptizing, and taking the Lord’s Supper together.

Beginning in 2019, the church engaged in prayer, teaching, and planning that came to focus on four convictions:

1. Worship unity – If possible, gather one church, one room on the Lord’s Day.
2. Hospitality – Design for “come early, stay late” community life, with intuitive, dignifying wayfinding and gathering space.
3. Accessibility & safety – Bring the entire campus to modern codes and ADA standards (no more “sneak past the pulpit to find a restroom”).
4. Longevity – Build for generations, not just for now.

FBC engaged architects who specialize in historic, landlocked churches. Could they keep the sanctuary and still achieve those aims? They explored it. The math—on capacity, structure, compliance, and circulation—wouldn’t work. Preserving the mission meant replacing the building.

“We didn’t wake up wanting to tear down a historic structure. I love history. But our call is to shepherd people—not protect paint.” — Dr. McNutt

The congregation discussed, prayed, and voted (FBC is congregationally governed). The decision was overwhelminglyin favor—not unanimous, but decisive. Tellingly, many of the longtime members who said, “It will hurt to see it go,”were first to give financially to the new project. They knew their children and grandchildren need a church that’s spiritually alive and structurally ready for the next century.

Rebuilding the past to serve the future

If you’ve seen renderings and thought, “No steeple? Looks like a courthouse?”—a few clarifications:

• There hasn’t been a steeple for decades.
• The new design is not modernist. It is historically faithful to the 1906–1910 façade—with authentic arches, keystones, coins, and window profiles—recreated in detail to honor the block’s architectural vocabulary.
• The façade is re-centered on the block for better symmetry and presence on Floyd Street.
• Inside, expect a reverent sanctuary (not a black-box concert hall), with the infrastructure to support excellent sound, lighting, and media—while keeping the feel of a historic Baptist worship space.
• The lobby will become a true commons—the kind of place where people linger after worship, meet new friends, and move easily to discipleship spaces.
• Oh, and restrooms? Plentiful, obvious, and accessible—without crossing in front of the preacher.

A theology of space: why unity shaped the blueprint

What pushed this past “we need more seats” into “we must rethink the room” was theology, not just practicality. FBC’s leadership concluded that Scripture presents a compelling vision of one body gathered—intergenerational and, by God’s grace, increasingly multiethnic—sitting under the same Word, singing with the same voice, witnessing the same baptisms, and sharing the same Table. The building had stopped supporting that biblical aspiration. The new one is designed to enable it.

A simple and beautiful side effect: grandparents and grandchildren now sing both the deep hymns of the faith and the best modern songs of today—together. It’s not aesthetic compromise; it’s spiritual formation—rooted, rich, and shared.

“We hear you”: responding to community concern

Dr. McNutt’s message to the broader community is gracious and direct:

• We hear the sadness. For many, FBC’s façade was a landmark backdrop for life’s milestones.
• We didn’t pick a fight. The church submitted to a long, difficult public process with the Historic Preservation Commission and City Council, agreeing to stringent design standards.
• We’re building something beautiful and fitting—not for trendiness, but to honor Covington’s character and the church’s mission.
• If you don’t worship with us, please don’t judge us from a distance. Come see. Ask questions. “Don’t have an opinion of us without coming to check out what God is doing.”

Sunday services: 8:30 & 11:00 AM. Everyone’s welcome.

Beyond bricks: rooted, reaching, replicating

Midway through the conversation, Trey invites Cody to step back from blueprints and talk about the moment we’re living in—polarization, culture fights, confusion about truth—and how a local church should respond.

Dr. McNutt’s answer is both classic and urgent:

• Rooted — In the Word, in prayer, in the church. Like a live oak, roots intertwine to hold each other up.
• Reaching — Into every good corner of Covington and Newton County (and beyond) with engagement, evangelism, church planting, and missions, as far as truth and conscience allow.
• Replicating — Disciples making disciples, groups multiplying, churches supporting churches. Fruit that endures.

He’s careful to distinguish the gospel (“God is our Maker; sin our failure; Christ our Savior; repentance and faith our answer; new life our pleasure”) from social action. The church must do good works—Scripture commands it—but works flow from the gospel; they are not the gospel. That distinction keeps the church clear-eyed and courageous in a confusing age.

“Politics will not save us. Programs will not save us. The gospel of Jesus Christ—proclaimed by a faithful local church—changes people, families, and towns.” — Dr. McNutt

SHARE: If you share this episode with a neighbor who’s been asking, “Why did they do that?”—you’ll be doing Covington a favor.

Important links mentioned

• The Town Square Podcast – past episodes, show notes & donate page: thetownsquarepodcast.com • Donate:thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate
• First Baptist Church, Covington – “Growing Together” vision, service times (8:30 & 11:00 AM), campus updates firstbaptistcovington.com
• Luther Rice College & Seminary – fully online, biblical, accredited programs: LutherRice.edu
• The Appalachia Group Insurance – independent insurance advisors, email Bobby

Enjoying the Town Square? Help us keep it going.

If this conversation helped you understand your town—and your neighbors—just a bit more, please:

1. Like, subscribe, and most importantly SHARE this episode on your social pages.
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Sponsor Thank-Yous

We’re grateful for partners who invest in thoughtful local dialogue.

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About The Town Square Podcast

Local advocates for a better Newton County bring their different perspectives to the messy middle—because our aim is unity, not uniformity. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and explore past episodes at thetownsquarepodcast.com.

Listener note: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts, advertisers, or sponsors. We strive to provide a platform for open and respectful dialogue on community issues. Listener discretion advised.

“All right, well, welcome to the Town Square Podcast today. We are joined by the 2024–2025 Newton County Schools Teacher of the Year, Ms. Taylor Moody.” From that first line, it’s clear this conversation was going to be special. Co-hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey welcomed a guest whose story has already inspired students, teachers and families across Newton County—and whose influence is now being felt statewide.

Ms. Moody holds a rare combination of humility and momentum. In just six years in the classroom, she was named NCS Teacher of the Year and advanced to the Top 10 finalists for Georgia Teacher of the Year. She also serves on district and state advisory groups to help shape the future of ELA standards and teacher voice in Georgia. Yet, as she told us, none of this was part of her original plan.

“I’m a first-generation college graduate. I equated success with money, so I started at UGA as a math major and thought I’d be a real estate lawyer.”

Then life happened.

The Detour That Became a Calling

In college, Taylor experienced a sudden health crisis—fluid building behind her eyes that led to vision loss and migraines. The treatments slowed everything down. Reading and writing felt different. Processing emotions was harder. She needed tutoring, leaned into creative writing, and published poems born out of that season.

“I began to see the power of literacy. I wanted to be on the other side of it—helping students who feel the way I felt: unable, stuck, uncertain—discover what reading and writing can do to heal, express, and empower.”

She switched majors to English Education and then faced an unthinkable early-career hardship—losing two students to suicide within two weeks.

“College prepared me to teach English. It did not prepare me for that. My mom said, ‘You have to decide—this is beyond grading and lesson plans.’ That’s when teaching became my ministry.”

From that moment forward, Ms. Moody wasn’t just teaching ELA standards; she was teaching human beings.

From Math Brain to ELA Heart—Why That Combo Works

Most people either love math or English. Taylor is fluent in both. That makes her especially effective with STEM-minded students who doubt they’ll ever love literature.

“I tell them I started as a math major. It gives me credibility with the STEM kids. But I needed a classroom where 25 different answers could be right if you can support your thinking. I wanted students to experience learning that’s adventurous, expressive, opinionated, and deeply human.”

Her math background also brings structure and systems thinking to the way she designs projects. Which leads us to…

Project-Based Learning That Solves Real Problems

Taylor is a champion of project-based learning (PBL) that merges ELA standards with real-world outcomes. Students don’t just analyze texts or write essays—they design solutions with measurable community impact, collaborate with engineering and healthcare pathways, and present their work to real experts.

“Quick Save CPR” — Student Innovation Takes the Stage

In Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow competition, one of her student teams designed Quick Save CPR, a guided mat that lays over a patient and prompts the rescuer through correct compressions. It lights up to show hand placement, provides rhythm cues (think “Stayin’ Alive”), and changes color feedback if you’re pushing too hard or not hard enough—solving a common failure point in community CPR response.

They connected their innovation to a local problem—ambulance delays and community response anxiety—and worked with engineering instructors to code and prototype the device.

“People think they know CPR until the moment they need it. Anxiety spikes, technique fades. The mat coaches you in real time.”

The team earned state-level recognition and was named Youth of the Year in Newton County.

A Migraine Patch—And a State Win

The next year, her class identified overuse of OTC pain meds as a community issue—especially the risks of ibuprofen/acetaminophen reliance. A new team designed a headache patch concept to stimulate a nerve pathway behind the neck to relieve migraines—like a targeted neuromodulation approach.

They earned State Winner honors and invited Piedmont’s Chief Medical Officer to mentor their work. He offered this simple advice: if they can fully realize the mechanism and conduct validation, file a patent.

“These are 17-year-olds building solutions with professionals. That’s the promise of public education when it’s done right.”

Why PBL Fits ELA

Ms. Moody weaves reading, writing, rhetoric, research, and communication skills into every stage—proposal writing, literature reviews, technical writing, multimodal presentations, and reflective argumentation. Along the way, students learn feedback cycles, iteration, resilience, and audience awareness—all core ELA outcomes with authentic stakes.

It’s one thing to ace a quiz. It’s another to build something a hospital might want on the shelf.

Teaching Through a Pandemic: Black Boxes, Open Hearts

Taylor’s entry into professional teaching intersected with the pandemic. She finished her student teaching on Zoom. Her first year? Half remote, half in person—with black screens, muted mics, and students struggling far beyond academics.

So, she did what great teachers do—she adapted.

• Open Zoom “after hours” for unstructured social time
• Show-and-tell for high schoolers (yes, you read that right), pets included
• Relationship rituals that continue today: fist bumps at the door, celebrations before content

“Mental health became impossible to ignore. The learning mattered, but the relationships mattered most.”

She even got observed by an admin during a show-and-tell. Rather than panic, she leaned in. If anything, it proved what evaluators most hope to see: a teacher building trust so learning can happen.

“You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Powerful.”

That’s the line Ms. Moody carries into every talk and training. As Teacher of the Year, she spoke to new teachers across Newton County, discovering that she loves public speaking and has more to share than she imagined.

“Veteran teachers cried, hugged me, and told me my words mattered. They still text for advice during a tough week. You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful—and we need that truth in education.”

She now serves:

• On Newton County’s Teacher Advisory Committee
• On the Georgia ELA Advisory Committee (as the state rolls out new ELA standards)
• With the Georgia Teacher of the Year cohort, where her Top 10 class still chats and supports each other daily

Her message to teachers and leaders is consistent: teacher voice matters—locally and statewide.

The Power—and Limits—of Public Education

When she advanced to the state Top 10, finalists had to deliver a three-minute elevator pitch on the power of public education. As a proud product of public schools and a first-gen college graduate, Ms. Moody didn’t have to manufacture passion.

She told stories: of students who were dismissed as average or worse, who are now engineers or Naval aviation grads; of a 2021 note that still hangs in her room—“Thank you for believing in me when no one else did.”

“Public education is a launchpad. Not every student has access to the same resources. But school can be where access begins.”

The Challenges We Can’t Ignore

Even so, Taylor doesn’t sugarcoat the obstacles:

• Anxiety is everywhere—and often the gateway to deeper mental-health struggles
• Social media amplifies pressure, comparison, and distraction
• Teacher burnout is real
• Equity of access—to pathways, mentors, and industry-aligned courses—remains uneven
• Recruiting industry professionals into teaching is difficult when pay can’t compete

She believes the system designed long before smartphones—and even before many modern careers—is overdue for re-imagination. And while teacher pensions remain a powerful long-term benefit, we can’t expect people to endure 30 years in unsustainable conditions.

“We need to rethink the system and fund the people doing the work. We can’t add pathways without the humans to teach them.”

Culture, Care, and Classroom Craft

If you visit Ms. Moody’s room at the Newton College & Career Academy, you’ll notice a few things right away.

1. Names first, content second. She strives to learn every name by week one.
2. Belonging is built, not assumed. They start with celebrations and small-group check-ins before diving into ELA.
3. The work feels bigger than grades. Students tackle projects with community mentors, industry advisors, and real audiences.
4. Revision is not punishment. Failure is feedback; iteration is a life skill.
5. Language unlocks power. Whether it’s a poem written through pain or a pitch delivered to a panel, ELA is the engine for every pathway.

“Not everyone will be an English teacher. But everyone will need to read, write, speak, and think in public. That’s our job.”

Advice for Newton’s New Teacher of the Year (and Every Teacher)

Asked what she’d say to Dr. Quinita Morrow, Newton County’s newly named Teacher of the Year, Taylor’s counsel was both warm and weighty:

• This title will change your life. Treat it like the responsibility it is.
• Use your voice—for teachers, students, and schools.
• Tell the stories of Newton County. There’s more good happening than social media suggests.
• Lean into confidence. The county and the state chose you for a reason.

And for new teachers, her day-one advice is simple and profound: save every note and remember why you’re here. In her room, one message—“Thank you for believing in me when nobody else did”—still leads the way.

How Parents and the Community Can Help (Right Now)

Taylor’s heart for partnership is on full display. She works across pathways and invites the broader community into her classroom regularly.

Here’s what she says parents and community partners can do today:

• Show up. Attend events. Reply to emails. Offer supplies when classrooms need them.
• Partner on projects. Bring a real challenge from your business and let students design solutions.
• Mentor and guest-speak. Students listen differently when industry and civic leaders share the mic.
• Scale the wins. Newton College & Career Academy has vibrant partnerships—let’s expand them across all schools.

If you’re in Newton (or nearby) and want to collaborate on a community-based project, Taylor is all in.

“Invite us in. Let my students see your world. They’ll surprise you with what they build.”

Connect with Ms. Moody:

• Facebook: Taylor Moody - https://www.facebook.com/taylor.moody.896371
• Instagram (classroom): @mstb_lit
• Email (County): brownmoody.kimberly@newton.k12.ga.us (Yes, the address is quirky—copy/paste from here!)

Conversation Highlights (Great for Skimming & Sharing)

• From math major to ELA mentor: Health challenges and creative writing changed Taylor’s trajectory—and gave her a mission.
• Teaching is a calling: Early heartbreak in student teaching reframed the work as care and ministry.
• Pandemic-era empathy: She built connection rituals—from open Zoom rooms to pet show-and-tell—to keep students human in an inhuman time.
• Real-world ELA: Students use research, rhetoric, and writing to engineer solutions (CPR mat, migraine patch) and pitch to medical leaders.
• Mental health matters: Anxiety is rising; relationship-first classrooms aren’t optional—they’re essential.
• Teacher voice, statewide: Taylor serves on local and Georgia advisory groups to help implement the new ELA standards with classroom reality in mind.
• Public ed’s promise: Access, opportunity, and belonging. The note that still guides her: “Thanks for believing in me when no one else did.”
• A motto for the moment: “You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.”

Listen, Share, and Support the Show

If you love conversations that live in the messy middle—where Newton County neighbors swap perspectives with humility and hope—this episode is for you. Please:

• LIKE the episode
• SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
• And most importantly, SHARE this conversation on your social media pages so more people hear from the teachers shaping our community

The Town Square Podcast is powered by donations and gifts from our community. If you believe in building unity (not uniformity) here in Newton County, please consider a one-time gift or a small $2 or $5 monthly recurring donation to keep local conversations coming:

👉 Donate: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate

Every share, rating, and dollar makes a difference. Thank you!

Important Links Mentioned

• The Town Square Podcast – Website: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com
• Donate to Support the Show: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate
• Bizzy Bee Exterminators: https://BizzyBeeExterminators.com
• LeAnne Long — RE/MAX Around Atlanta East (Covington): https://leannelong.com
• Samsung Solve for Tomorrow (competition referenced): (search “Samsung Solve for Tomorrow” to learn more & view student entries)
• Newton County School System (NCS): (visit the NCS site to learn about Teacher of the Year and advisory committees)
• Connect with Ms. Moody (Teacher of the Year):
• Facebook: Taylor Moody - https://www.facebook.com/taylor.moody.896371
• Instagram: @ms.tb_lit
• Email: brownmoody.kimberly@newton.k12.ga.us

Sponsor Spotlight (Thank You for Supporting Local!)

Bizzy Bee Exterminators (Locally Owned & Operated)

• Web: https://BizzyBeeExterminators.com
• Phone: 770-787-3718
• What they do: Full-service pest control—residential and commercial. Trusted locally for decades (Trey’s trusted them for 20 years at Eastridge Church!).
• Why we love them: Local technicians, excellent customer care, and timely help—especially for bug & mosquito season.
• Call today for a quote: 770-787-3718

LeAnne Long — RE/MAX Around Atlanta East (Covington)

• Web: https://leannelong.com
• Phone: 770-851-0380
• Who she is: Broker/Owner with 37+ years in real estate and 25+ years as a leading Realtor in East Metro Atlanta.
• Service area: Newton, Rockdale, Walton, Morgan, Jasper, and Oconee counties.
• Credentials: RE/MAX Hall of Fame, Realtor of the Year honors, expertise in negotiations, property management, short sales, and foreclosures.
• Why we love her: A true pro who puts clients first—whether you’re selling for top dollar or hunting for your dream home.
• Call LeAnne: 770-851-0380

Support the businesses that support local storytelling in Newton County.

Whether you’re watching on YouTube or listening on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, this episode delivers insight, laughter, and the kind of “messy middle” conversation that makes The Town Square Podcast a vital space for Newton County and beyond.

Meet Scotty Scoggins: A Life Shaped by Service

Scotty’s story begins in Chamblee, Georgia, where his father coached Pop Warner football for nearly three decades. His dad wasn’t just a coach—he was a mentor, a volunteer, and even recognized as Ronald Reagan’s Volunteer of the Year for the Southeast. Scotty grew up on the sidelines of championship teams, learning that life is about doing a few things really well, paying attention to details, and serving others.

Those lessons carried him into adulthood, where he’s worn many hats: accountant, community volunteer, school board candidate, library board member, and most recently, founder of The Vampire Run 5K and now Covington City Council candidate.

The Vampire Run: Putting the Fun in Fundraising

Scotty’s passion project, the Vampire Run 5K, was born out of personal tragedy. In 2014, his mother passed away from acute myeloid leukemia (AML). To honor her memory and support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), Scotty laced up his running shoes. What started as a personal fitness journey quickly grew into a movement.

In 2020, with traditional races canceled during the pandemic, Scotty launched the first Vampire Run. The theme was simple but brilliant: blood cancer sucks, and vampires suck blood. Set in Covington—the filming home of The Vampire Diaries—the run merged fitness, fandom, and fundraising.

• Year 1: 78 participants
• Year 2: 182 participants
• Year 3: 256 participants
• Year 4: 450 participants
• Year 5 (2025 projection): 600–700 runners

The race is unlike any other. Runners and walkers alike enjoy photo stops at Vampire Diaries filming locations, appearances by Freddy Krueger and Michael Myers along the route, costume contests, and a Founders Day parade float restored by volunteers. It’s less about finish times and more about fun, community, and fundraising.

To date, the Vampire Run has raised tens of thousands of dollars for LLS. As Scotty says, “We put the fun in fundraising.”

From Gwinnett to Covington: Lessons in Politics and Community

This isn’t Scotty’s first foray into public service. In the 1990s, he ran for Gwinnett County School Board, narrowly missing a runoff. That campaign led to an appointment to the library board, where his advocacy for parental oversight of materials sparked countywide debates and even appearances on talk radio shows.

Scotty admits he’s not afraid to stir the pot when necessary. But over time, his approach has shifted from partisan politics to practical problem-solving. “Local politics isn’t about politics,” he told Trey and Gabriel. “If you can’t pay your water bill, it doesn’t matter if you’re a Democrat or Republican—you still can’t pay your water bill. The question is: how do we fix that?”

Running for Covington City Council: The West Ward Campaign

Scotty first ran for Covington City Council (West Ward) in a previous election, earning an impressive 43% of the vote—much higher than typical for newcomers in that race. He attributes that to one simple strategy: knocking on doors, listening to people, and showing up.

His platform focuses on four key priorities:

1. Transparency – Making government decisions easier to understand and more accessible.
2. Affordability – Ensuring residents can keep up with rising utility costs and housing.
3. Smart Growth – Learning from Metro Atlanta’s mistakes in overdevelopment.
4. Access to Decision-Making – Creating more ways for residents to be heard without requiring them to attend 10 a.m. weekday meetings.

Scotty emphasizes that being a good neighbor is at the core of his campaign. “We should be helping each other out,” he says. “Those with means should be helping those without. That’s what community is.”

The Messy Middle Philosophy

What makes Scotty a perfect guest for The Town Square Podcast is his messy middle mindset. He resists political labels, embraces conversation across divides, and believes the truth is often found somewhere between extremes.

He recalls his days in college organizing bipartisan “Political Awareness Society” meetups in pubs, where students from both parties put topics in a jar and debated them over food and drinks. Today, he still carries that spirit.

“The answer is always in the middle,” Scotty says. “Some issues lean left, some lean right, but the extremes aren’t where most of us live. The middle is where community happens.”

Why This Episode Matters

This conversation with Scotty is more than just an interview—it’s a snapshot of what it means to live, work, and serve in Covington. From his moving story of loss that inspired the Vampire Run to his grassroots campaign for City Council, Scotty represents the kind of everyday leadership that makes small towns strong.

And for The Town Square Podcast, this episode is a milestone: our first video podcast. You can now watch full episodes on our YouTube channel. Don’t worry—audio versions remain on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for listeners on the go.

Important Links from the Episode

• Vampire Run Registration: Register Here
• Vampire Run Facebook Page: facebook.com/VampireRun5k
• Vampire Run Instagram: @vampireruncov
• Vampire Run TikTok: @vampire.run
• Vampire Run Email: vampireruncov@gmail.com
• Scotty’s Personal Facebook: facebook.com/scotty.scoggins
• Scotty’s Personal Instagram: @scottyscoggins
• Scotty’s Campaign Group: facebook.com/groups/scottyforcovington
• Campaign Email: scottyforcovington@gmail.com

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Thank You to Our Sponsor

This episode is brought to you by:

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Final Thoughts

Scotty Scoggins is more than a candidate—he’s a neighbor who believes in listening first, serving second, and stirring things up only when it’s necessary for the community’s good. Whether you’re signing up for the Vampire Run or following the Covington City Council race, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts

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Representative Fleming has lived his entire life in Newton County, raised a family here, and built small businesses alongside his wife, Lacey. After years of public service—including time as Chief of Staff in the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office under Brian Kemp—Fleming is now serving his fourth year in the Georgia House of Representatives.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Fleming opens up about his roots in Newton County, his time navigating the Great Recession as a young County Commissioner, and his unique perspective on how the Georgia General Assembly works. Most importantly, he shares his vision as he announces his candidacy for Georgia Secretary of State.

This episode is part civics lesson, part local history, and part look forward to the 2026 elections. If you’ve ever wondered how laws are made under the Gold Dome, or why election integrity and professional licensing are central to Georgia’s future, this episode will keep you glued in.

Who Is Tim Fleming? Newton County Roots

Fleming grew up on the west side of Newton County, where his parents ran a small independent grocery store on Brown Bridge Road and Highway 212. Those small-town roots—and the values of hard work and community service he learned early—continue to shape his political philosophy today.

At age 25, Fleming was elected to the Newton County Board of Commissioners, making him one of the youngest commissioners in Georgia at the time. But his first four years in office came during the Great Recession, a trial by fire that forced him to make tough budget decisions, including painful staff layoffs.

Fleming recalls walking into meetings knowing that hundreds of thousands of dollars had to be cut. “We cut the fat, and then we had to start cutting to the bone,” he said. These decisions were personal, affecting friends and neighbors he would still see at the grocery store or church.

From County Commissioner to the Gold Dome

After four years on the County Commission, Fleming joined then–Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s team, first as campaign manager, then as Assistant Director of Elections, Deputy Secretary of State, and later Chief of Staff.

He helped manage the Secretary of State’s $35 million budget and 250 employees, overseeing everything from elections to corporate filings to professional licensing. Later, when Kemp ran for Governor in 2018, Fleming again managed the campaign—one of the toughest and most closely watched races in recent Georgia history.

Following Kemp’s victory, Fleming served as his first Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office, helping to set the tone for a new administration.

Returning to Politics

In 2021, Representative Dave Belton of Morgan County announced he would not seek re-election. With Newton County at the heart of the redrawn district, Fleming was encouraged to run. He did—and won with over 64% of the primary vote and nearly 80% of the general election vote.

Now in his second term (fourth year) under the Gold Dome, Fleming represents a district that includes East Newton County, South Walton County, and all of Morgan County.

Why Secretary of State?

Fleming says his decision to run for Secretary of State in 2026 is rooted in both experience and passion. Having spent nearly eight years in the office already, he knows firsthand how it operates and where improvements are needed.

When most people think of the Secretary of State’s Office, two things come to mind:

1. Elections
2. Professional Licensing

Both areas, Fleming argues, need urgent attention.

Elections: Secure, Honest, Trusted

Georgia’s elections have drawn national attention since 2020, but Fleming insists on keeping the focus clear: “We must have fair, secure, honest, and trusted elections. If people lose faith in the system, they stop participating.”

As chair of the House Blue Ribbon Study Committee on Elections Procedures, Fleming has traveled across Georgia hearing directly from local election superintendents, staff, and citizens. His committee is examining:

• Voter roll maintenance
• Future voting systems (paper vs. machines)
• Early voting length and costs
• Municipal flexibility on Saturday voting

Fleming emphasizes that solutions must work on the ground at the county level, not just in Atlanta. “If it doesn’t work for local election officials, it doesn’t work,” he said.

Professional Licensing: Getting Government Out of the Way

The Secretary of State’s Office also oversees licensing for hundreds of thousands of professionals—from nurses and electricians to hair stylists and general contractors. Fleming says this system is currently bogged down, with delays hurting workers and small businesses.

“When I left the office in 2019, new licenses were turned around in five days and renewals were automatic,” Fleming explained. “If you’ve met the criteria, passed the checks, and paid the fee, you should get your license. Government shouldn’t be the barrier.”

This issue is personal for Fleming, who grew up in a family that ran a small business in Newton County.

Inside the Georgia General Assembly: A Civics Lesson

One of the most fascinating parts of this interview is Fleming’s deep dive into how the Georgia legislative process really works. For listeners who love civics, this was pure gold.

From drafting a bill, to committee hearings, to the Rules Committee, to floor debate, to the Governor’s desk, Fleming lays out the step-by-step process that shapes Georgia’s laws.

“It’s a team sport,” he explained. “Even a one-page bill involves countless hours of work, revisions, and input from legislators, staff, and the public.”

The 2026 Elections: A Big Year for Georgia

Fleming also previewed what promises to be one of the most consequential election years in Georgia history:

• Governor’s race (Brian Kemp is term-limited)
• U.S. Senate seat (Jon Ossoff)
• 10^th District US Congressional Seat
• Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State
• Open seats in District 114 and beyond

Fleming is quick to stress that while he is focused on his own race, voters should expect a flood of mailers, commercials, and debates as 2026 approaches.

A Vision for Newton County

Despite his statewide ambitions, Fleming remains grounded in Newton County. He still lives in downtown Covington and wants to preserve the county’s small-town charm while preparing for growth.

“This is a special place,” he said. “I want us to keep that small-town feel while continuing to improve education and create opportunities for families.”

Important Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Tim Fleming for GA: http://www.flemingforga.com
• The Town Square Podcast: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com
• Donate to Support the Podcast: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate
• Georgia General Assembly Website: https://www.legis.ga.gov

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United Bank Wealth Management – Angel Pitts

Your trusted community bank can also help you plan for the future. Angel Pitts, United Bank’s Wealth Management Advisor in Covington and Madison, specializes in long-term investing, diversification, and personalized planning.

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