Lure of the Lake

Robbie King

Lake Oconee, Georgia, located halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, is a man-made paradise with incredible beauty that makes it a great vacation destination for people of all ages. More than that, though, it's a community for those that are looking for a peaceful life filled with nature and beauty. I, myself, am a member of that community. I moved to Reynolds in 2020 and started to hear the incredible stories of its residents. Join me, now, as we take a plunge into some fascinating stories of the many well-lived lives of our community and learn why they were Lured to the Lake.

  1. 14h ago

    A Healthier Future for the Lake: Stonish Pierce’s Vision for St. Mary’s

    When we think about what makes a community a wonderful place to live, we often talk about its natural beauty, its schools, its businesses, and, especially here, life around the lake. But few things matter more to a growing community than knowing excellent healthcare is available when and where we need it. Today’s guest is helping shape the future of healthcare across our region. Stonish Pierce is President and CEO of Trinity Health Georgia, which includes St. Mary’s Health Care System and St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital. Under his leadership, St. Mary’s is making a significant investment in the people and communities it serves, including a $45.6 million expansion of Good Samaritan Hospital. But this story is about much more than a larger building. It is about expanding access to care, bringing more services closer to home, preparing for the continued growth of the Lake Country, and ensuring that our local healthcare system is ready to serve us for generations to come. In our conversation, Stonish shares the vision behind that investment, the advantages of combining strong local relationships with the resources of Trinity Health, and the leadership challenges, and opportunities, facing healthcare today. At some point, nearly every family in our community will depend upon the people and services we are discussing in this episode. That makes this conversation not only timely, but deeply personal. So let’s look beyond the hospital walls and explore what it takes to build a healthier future for the Lake Country in this engaging conversation with Stonish Pierce! Guest: Stonish Pierce - President & CEO Trinity Health Georgia/St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital System Websites: St. Mary’s Healthcare System: https://www.stmaryshealthcaresystem.org/ Trinity Health Care: https://www.trinity-health.org/ St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital: https://www.stmaryshealthcaresystem.org/location/st-marys-good-samaritan-hospital-ga Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  2. Aug 14

    "Still In The Game" - Destiny McClendon's Journey From College Athlete To Champion For "The Boy's & Girls Club"

    Today’s guest knows a thing or two about teamwork, discipline, and showing up when it matters. Destiny McClendon was a standout college basketball player, and now she’s bringing that same competitive spirit, energy, and leadership back to the Lake Country community in a very different way. Destiny serves at the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, working alongside her father, Stacy McClendon, to help create opportunities, encouragement, and a stronger future for young people across our area. And while basketball is certainly part of her story, this conversation is really about what happens after the final buzzer, when the lessons learned through sports, education, mentors, and family begin to shape the way you serve others. We’ll talk about Destiny’s journey as an athlete, the people who helped influence her along the way, what brought her into the Boys & Girls Club mission, and what she’s seeing firsthand in the lives of kids who simply need a safe place, a little encouragement, and someone willing to believe in them. We’ll also explore what it’s like working side by side with her dad, because apparently one competitive McClendon in the building simply wasn’t enough. This is a conversation about potential, purpose, and the difference one caring adult can make in the life of a young person. You’re going to enjoy getting to know Destiny McClendon. Guest: Destiny McClendon - Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club Phone: 706-474-3916 Address: 1471 ML King Jr. Drive; Greensboro, GA Website: https://www.bgcncg.com/pnc Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  3. Aug 7

    Feeding Hope - Service Above Self - Bill Bonnington on Second Harvest - One of Lake's Country's Most Impactful Outreach Programs

    When most people think about Lake Country, they picture beautiful sunsets, sparkling water, championship golf courses, and a community that's growing and thriving. But like every community, there's another story, one that isn't always visible. It's the story of families quietly wondering how they'll put enough food on the table. It's the story of grandparents raising grandchildren on a fixed income. It's the story of hardworking people who, because of an unexpected illness, job loss, or simply the rising cost of living, find themselves needing a helping hand. The good news is... they're not alone. Every month, something remarkable happens right here in our community. Long before most of us are enjoying our Saturday morning, a dedicated group of volunteers comes together with one simple purpose: to make sure their neighbors have enough to eat. It's called Second Harvest, and while thousands of pounds of food are distributed, what they're really delivering is something much greater: hope, dignity, and the reassuring reminder that this community cares. My guest today is Bill Bonnington, a longtime Rotarian and one of the leaders behind this incredible outreach. We'll talk about his own journey of service, the hidden reality of food insecurity in our community, and why Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self" is much more than just words, it's something lived out month after month by volunteers who simply want to make a difference. Whether you've volunteered before, have wondered how Second Harvest works, or simply want to hear a story that reminds us of the very best in people, you're going to enjoy this conversation. Because at the end of the day, a strong community isn't measured by the wealth of its few... It's measured by how well it cares for those who need it most. Guest: Bill Bonnington - Second Harvest Website: https://secondharvestga.com/ Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  4. Jul 31

    "The Pulse of Putnam" - A Conversation With Tog Goss, CEO of Putnam General Hospital

    When you move to a community, there are certain questions you naturally ask. Where are the best restaurants? What are the best schools? Where do I find a good mechanic? And perhaps one of the most important questions of all... "Tell me about your hospital." Because a community hospital says a great deal about a community itself. Today, we're going behind the scenes at Putnam General Hospital with its new CEO, Thomas "Tog" Goss. As you'll hear today, Tog brings more than experience. He brings a vision. A vision of a hospital that embraces innovation, invests in cutting-edge technology, empowers its employees, and continues to expand the quality of care available in Putnam County. It's a conversation about leadership... innovation... and taking care of a community. Guest: Thomas “Tog” Goss, CEO Address: 101 Lake Oconee Parkway, Eatonton, GA 30124 Phone: 706-485-2711 Website: https://www.putnamgeneral.com/ Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  5. Jul 27

    "Aging Isn't Meant To Be A Solo Journey" - Jeanine Lewis Canalis with Seniors Helping Seniors

    Growing older is one of the few experiences we all share. If we're fortunate, each new birthday is another reminder of a life well lived. But with those years often come new challenges, for ourselves, our spouses, our parents, or close friends. The question isn't if we'll face those challenges. The question is... how do we navigate them with dignity, independence, and grace? Today, we're talking about an organization that's changing the way people think about aging. My guest is Jeanine Canales, franchise owner of Seniors Helping Seniors, a unique organization built on a simple but powerful idea: some of the very best people to help older adults are... other older adults. It's not just about assistance. It's about companionship. It's about purpose. It's about helping people remain independent in the homes they love while creating meaningful friendships along the way. We'll talk about the challenges many families face as parents grow older, the signs that it's time to seek a little extra support, and why accepting help doesn't mean giving up your independence, it often means preserving it. We'll also explore how this unique model is giving active retirees an opportunity to continue making a difference in the lives of others, proving that one of the greatest gifts we can offer isn't just our time... it's our experience. Whether you're planning for your own future, caring for aging parents, or simply interested in living well through every stage of life, I think you'll find this conversation both encouraging and inspiring. Because growing older isn't about giving up what matters most. It's about finding new ways to keep living the life you love. Guest: Jeanine Lewis Canales, Seniors Helping Seniors Address: 191 Sammons Industrial Parkway, Eatonton, GA 30124 Email: info@shsmidsouthga.com Phone: 762-775-0006 Website: https://locations.seniorshelpingseniors.com/ga/augusta/259.html Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  6. Jul 17

    "Life Is Better With Ice Cream" (Part 2) David Hodge - The Inspiring Story Behind Crooked D Creamery

    Today's episode is a continuation of last week's fascinating conversation. Sometimes the most interesting people have taken the most unexpected journeys. Today’s guest has worn a lot of hats over the years. He’s been a leader, an author, a consultant, involved in ministry-focused organizations, a rancher… and now he’s adding one more title to the list—ice cream shop owner. That’s right. David Hodge is the owner of Crooked D Creamery, one of downtown Eatonton’s newest and most unique businesses. And while the handcrafted ice cream may be what brings people through the front door, it’s David’s story that makes this episode so compelling. We’ll talk about where his love of ice cream began, the story behind the unusual name Crooked D Creamery, and why, after a lifetime of leadership, writing, and helping organizations grow, he decided now was the right time to open an old-fashioned ice cream shop. Along the way, we’ll explore lessons about entrepreneurship, purpose, community, and the importance of creating places where people can slow down, gather together, and simply enjoy life. Because sometimes the sweetest stories aren’t just found in the ice cream… they’re found in the people serving it. So grab your favorite flavor—real or imaginary—and join me for a conversation with David Hodge that just might leave you smiling… and maybe craving a double scoop before it’s over. Guest: David Hodge, Crooked D Creamery Address: 110 N. Jefferson Street, Eatonton, GA 30124 Phone: 727-207-3640 FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Crooked-D-Creamery-61577781920355/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crooked_d_creamery/ Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  7. Jul 10

    "Life Is Better With Ice Cream" David Hodge - The Inspiring Story Behind Crooked D Creamery

    Today’s guest has worn a lot of hats over the years. He’s been a leader, an author, a consultant, involved in ministry-focused organizations, a rancher… and now he’s adding one more title to the list—ice cream shop owner. That’s right. David Hodge is the owner of Crooked D Creamery, one of downtown Eatonton’s newest and most unique businesses. And while the handcrafted ice cream may be what brings people through the front door, it’s David’s story that makes this episode so compelling. We’ll talk about where his love of ice cream began, the story behind the unusual name Crooked D Creamery, and why, after a lifetime of leadership, writing, and helping organizations grow, he decided now was the right time to open an old-fashioned ice cream shop. Along the way, we’ll explore lessons about entrepreneurship, purpose, community, and the importance of creating places where people can slow down, gather together, and simply enjoy life. Because sometimes the sweetest stories aren’t just found in the ice cream… they’re found in the people serving it. So grab your favorite flavor—real or imaginary—and join me for a conversation with David Hodge that just might leave you smiling… and maybe craving a double scoop before it’s over. Guest: David Hodge, Crooked D Creamery Address: 110 N. Jefferson Street, Eatonton, GA 30124 Phone: 727-207-3640 FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Crooked-D-Creamery-61577781920355/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crooked_d_creamery/ Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

  8. Jul 4

    Special Presentation: More Than Paper: Why The Constitution Still Runs The Show

    What do a social media post, a small business owner, a church service, a peaceful protest, and your right to vote all have in common? More than you might think. They are all shaped by a remarkable document written nearly 250 years ago by a group of imperfect, but extraordinary, individuals who dared to ask a bold question: How do you create a government powerful enough to protect freedom, yet limited enough to preserve it? In this special edition of Lure of the Lake, we take a departure from our usual conversations about the people and places that make Lake Country so special to explore one of the most influential documents in human history: the United States Constitution. This isn’t a dry history lesson or a political debate. It’s the fascinating story of America’s founding, the brilliance of the Constitution’s design, the enduring importance of the Bill of Rights, and the timeless principles that continue to shape our daily lives nearly two and a half centuries later. Along the way, we’ll meet the visionaries behind the Constitution, uncover the challenges they faced, hear memorable stories and quotations from history, and discover why this extraordinary framework has endured through wars, economic crises, technological revolutions, and profound social change. Whether you’re a lifelong student of American history or someone who simply wants to better understand the freedoms we often take for granted, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ideas that have helped define our nation, and the responsibility each generation shares in preserving them. Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the document that has stood the test of time and continues to remind us that freedom is never merely inherited, it is understood, protected, and passed on. Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

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4.9
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

Lake Oconee, Georgia, located halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, is a man-made paradise with incredible beauty that makes it a great vacation destination for people of all ages. More than that, though, it's a community for those that are looking for a peaceful life filled with nature and beauty. I, myself, am a member of that community. I moved to Reynolds in 2020 and started to hear the incredible stories of its residents. Join me, now, as we take a plunge into some fascinating stories of the many well-lived lives of our community and learn why they were Lured to the Lake.

Information

  • Creator
    Robbie King
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    216
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Lure of the Lake

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