Building Community Podcast

  1. 6 days ago

    What You Didn't Know About Georgia Power’s Community Mission

    Georgia Power is more than just a utility company. In this episode, we explore how they actively support community development.We sat down with Carrie Bridges and Matt Forshee to discuss the broader impact of local infrastructure projects. Instead of focusing solely on energy delivery, we look at how the organization partners with residents to drive meaningful growth. It is a practical look at how large-scale utility operations can align with the specific needs of the neighborhoods they serve.Whether you are involved in local government or interested in corporate social responsibility, this conversation highlights the strategies behind effective community engagement. We break down the balance between maintaining essential services and acting as a catalyst for regional economic prosperity.Subscribe for more updates on local leadership and infrastructure initiatives.

  2. 16 Oct

    Tiffany Heitzman and Georgia Power Part 2

    Tiffany Sits down with Georgia Power to talk about the importance of building community. Georgia Power is helping build infrastructure to facilitate growth and reduce power costs for Georgia residents.

  3. 2 Oct

    The Truth About Community: Why It’s Harder Than You Think

    Most people get community building wrong because they focus on metrics rather than the human element.We sat down with top leaders from Georgia Power to discuss the reality of local leadership and why so many initiatives stall out before they really start. It is rarely about a lack of resources and almost always about a fundamental lack of trust among stakeholders.This conversation moves past surface-level advice to address the difficult conversations that actually move the needle. Whether you are leading a neighborhood group or a growing team, these insights will help you foster a more sustainable organization.

  4. 18 Sept

    The Making of a Mayor: Garnett Johnson's Personal Story

    Garnett Johnson shares his improbable journey from East Augusta to becoming mayor and how he maintained a positive outlook.In this conversation, Mayor Garnett Johnson reflects on his upbringing in East Augusta, a community often defined by negative perceptions. He explains how he moved past those limitations to build a career in public service, emphasizing that his path was not straightforward but rather guided by faith and resilience. This discussion is for anyone interested in leadership, local politics, or personal stories of overcoming humble beginnings to achieve significant goals.Throughout the episode, Johnson highlights the importance of keeping a positive outlook despite the challenges inherent in his home area. He offers a unique perspective on what it takes to serve a city while staying true to one's roots. By focusing on his faith-guided journey, listeners gain insight into the character of a local leader who refused to let his environment define his potential.

  5. 4 Sept

    Tiffany Heitzman and Tyler Jones, Owner of Specialty Gutter Services

    First-time homebuyers can find stability and build a future for their family with this new initiative. Learn how to secure your property.Achieving true happiness often starts with having a place to call your own. This discussion explores the deep connection between homeownership and personal stability, providing insights for anyone looking to build a secure foundation for their family. We break down why owning a home remains a cornerstone of long-term planning and how you can take the first step toward that goal.To make the process more accessible, we are highlighting a specific company initiative that provides financial support for those entering the market. If you are ready to start your journey, you can receive $500 towards closing costs to help offset your initial expenses. This program is designed to lower barriers and help you find a sense of belonging in a community of your own.

  6. 21 Aug

    The Shocking Truth About Kids Without Beds in the CSRA

    Approximately 15,000 children in the Augusta area currently lack a proper bed. Learn the reality of bed poverty and how to help.This discussion focuses on the critical situation facing many families within the CSRA. We examine the specific issue of bed poverty, where thousands of local children are forced to sleep on floors or without basic comfort every single night. Understanding these Augusta community needs is the first step toward creating tangible solutions for our neighbors.By highlighting the scale of this crisis, we hope to connect viewers with the resources and awareness necessary to support these children. Addressing the needs of CSRA children requires a collective effort from the community. Whether you are looking for ways to volunteer or simply want to understand the challenges facing local families, this overview provides the essential context.Subscribe for weekly updates on local community needs and impact reports, and comment below if you want to learn more about specific ways to support families in the Augusta area.

  7. 7 Aug

    What QTS Reveals About Real Corporate Responsibility | Tiffany Heitzman and Cal Wray

    In this episode of the Building Community Podcast, host Tiffany Heitzman sits down with Cal Wray, President of the Augusta Economic Development Authority, to bring an objective view on the data center debate.Cal addresses the questions many Augusta residents have been asking — about water usage, environmental safeguards, zoning, and how the Development Authority vets projects like this before they ever break ground.This conversation goes beyond the headlines to explore what responsible economic growth looks like for a community like Augusta — balancing investment and job creation with the concerns of neighbors living closest to the development.

  8. 31 Jul

    Why Augusta Doesn't Win on Price Alone | Tiffany Heitzman and Cal Wray

    Learn why corporate incentives are about more than just cash. Discover how regions attract businesses through comprehensive benefit assessments.Many people assume that winning over a new company is purely a bidding war. However, successful business attraction strategies often rely on a much broader value proposition. This video breaks down why financial incentives are only one piece of the puzzle and how regions can compete effectively even when they are not the highest bidder.We examine how companies evaluate different locations based on total value rather than immediate subsidies. If you are interested in economic development or curious about how corporate decision-making works during site selection, this overview provides clear context on what actually drives business investment today.Subscribe for weekly economic development breakdowns, and let me know in the comments: what factor do you think matters most when a company chooses a new headquarters?

  9. 24 Jul

    From Civilian to Soldier to Business Owner | Veterans Power Washing

    Tiffany Heitzman from the Homebuilders Association of the Aiken Augusta Region sits down with the owner of Veterans Power Washing to talk business, patriotism, and community.

  10. 19 Jun

    Augusta Administrator Tameka Allen with Tiffany Heitzman

    Tameka Allen has served as Augusta's City Administrator since September 2024, but she's no stranger to city government — she has worked for the city for more than 30 years. Before stepping into the top job, she served as Chief Information Officer for the City of Augusta, as Deputy Administrator for nine years, and as Interim Administrator in 2014.

  11. 22 May

    Tiffany Heitzman Continues Her Conversation with Scott Johnson

    Tiffany Heitzman Continues her conversation with Columbia County Manager Scott Johnson as they talk community, infrastructure, and the future.

  12. 15 May

    Tiffany Heitzman Interviews Scott Johnson

    Tiffany Heitzman sits down with Columbia County County Manager Scott Johnson talking about a variety of topics from leadership, to infrastructure.

  13. 24 Apr

    Business Owner Breaks Down Unexpected Regulation Costs

    Welcome to the Building Community Podcast, where Tiffany Heitzman discusses the significant impact of "local government" regulation on businesses. A guest shares a personal anecdote about an unexpected $5,000 expense due to "government regulation", highlighting crucial "business insights". This conversation sheds light on how such policies affect the broader "economy" and offers valuable perspectives for "small business" owners.

  14. 10 Apr

    Tiffany Heitzman Interviews Dr. Jackson Drumgoole

    In this discussion, we learn about a social service agency's initiative to build "tiny house" communities to help "youth" exit care. This innovative approach to "affordable housing" provides a solution for "homelessness" and highlights the impactful work of "social worker" professionals. It's truly inspiring to see such dedication.

  15. 27 Mar

    Tiffany Heitzman Interviews Pierwood Homes

    In this discussion, we dive into the current state of the "housing market" and the evolving landscape for "home buyers". We specifically focus on the average age of a "first time home buyer" today compared to previous decades, highlighting significant shifts in "housing prices" and what it means for those looking at "buying a home".

  16. 13 Mar

    Tiffany Heitzman Interviews Aimee Hall and Jennifer Frantom

    Tiffany Heitzman sits down with Aimee Hall and Jennifer Frantom from SafeHomes Augusta. SafeHomes of Augusta is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence throughout the East Central Georgia region. Its mission is to transform victims of domestic violence into survivors by providing compassionate advocacy, education, and community awareness, grounded in the belief that every person deserves to live free from fear and abuse. Through services such as a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and life-skills programs, SafeHomes helps individuals find safety, healing, and a path toward independence. By offering free and confidential support while also educating the community, the organization works to break the cycle of violence and build a safer, stronger community for families across the Augusta area.

  17. 28 Feb

    Tiffany Heitzman Interviews Mark and Matt Ivey

    Our latest podcast episode features a compelling panel discussion focused on the essence of building community. The conversation highlights the importance of connection and collaboration in fostering strong groups. As a moderator, I found the insights on public speaking particularly valuable for engaging an audience.

  18. 13 Feb

    Tiffany Heitzman and Laura Adamski

    Join Tiffany Heitzman on the Building Community Podcast as she sits down with Laura Damski of Legacy Homes of Georgia. They discuss leadership as a crucial skill, emphasizing the importance of continuous practice and self improvement. This conversation offers valuable insights into personal development and fostering a resilient mindset.