The Town Square Podcast

Trey Bailey, Gabriel Stovall
  • 5.0 (13)
  • News Commentary
  • Updated Biweekly

Not just another podcast, but a place to meet in the messy middle and have difficult discussions with transparency and diplomacy where the outcome is unity, not uniformity. The primary topics will be the local interests of Newton County, Georgia residents and those in the surrounding community.

  1. Jun 30

    The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas & What’s Ahead | Episode 93

    The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas & What’s Ahead Sometimes the best conversations happen when there’s no guest sitting across the table. After several weeks of candidate interviews and election coverage, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall return for a wide-ranging conversation about life, community, travel, family, and the future of The Town Square Podcast. The episode begins with reflection on the recent Candidate Conversation series, which gave local voters an opportunity to hear directly from individuals seeking public office. Rather than debates or rapid-fire questions, the goal was simple: create space for honest conversation and help listeners better understand the people behind the campaigns. For Trey and Gabriel, that approach perfectly reflects the mission of the podcast—creating unity without demanding uniformity. Life Beyond the Podcast A lot has happened during the brief break between episodes. Trey shares the excitement of watching his twin daughters graduate from Eastside High School and begin the next chapter at the University of Georgia. Orientation brought excitement, information overload, and the realization that college arrives much faster than parents expect. Gabriel talks about preparing for a much-needed vacation after balancing journalism, ministry, and community leadership. For the first time in more than two decades, he’ll be able to completely unplug from both professions simultaneously—a rare opportunity that he’s determined to embrace. The conversation also pauses to acknowledge the passing of longtime Richmond County Board of Education member Walter Eubanks, serving as a reminder that life is both precious and unpredictable. Why Travel Changes Perspective One of the highlights of the episode is Trey’s reflection on a family trip through England and Scotland. Instead of focusing on major tourist attractions, the family intentionally spent time in small fishing villages, rural countryside, and the Scottish Highlands. From driving narrow roads lined with towering hedges to exploring tiny island communities known for producing world-famous Scotch whisky, the experience offered something deeper than sightseeing. It offered perspective. As beautiful as the United Kingdom was, Trey admits that returning home reminded him how much he appreciates living in America. The conversation isn’t about comparing nations or claiming one is better than another. Instead, it’s about recognizing that travel often deepens appreciation for home while broadening appreciation for other cultures. Gabriel echoes that sentiment through his own international experiences, noting that seeing the world often strengthens gratitude for the place we call home. America Through Someone Else’s Eyes The discussion naturally shifts to the FIFA World Cup currently being hosted across North America. One of the unexpected joys has been watching international visitors experience American culture for the first time. Social media has been filled with visitors discovering everything from Buc-ee’s to Atlanta lemon pepper wings—and, perhaps most importantly, ranch dressing. It’s a lighthearted reminder that every culture has something unique to offer, and sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable. Those moments also reinforce one of the recurring themes of The Town Square Podcast: genuine relationships begin with curiosity rather than assumptions. The Future of The Town Square Podcast Perhaps the biggest announcement of the episode is where the podcast is headed next. After more than ninety episodes, Trey and Gabriel believe it’s time to expand—not by changing who they are, but by growing what they do. One exciting addition will feature young people taking over the microphones. Inspired by conversations with students through the TaylorMade Foundation and other community partnerships, the hosts plan to dedicate future episodes to student voices, allowing the next generation to lead conversations that matter to them. It’s an opportunity to showcase future journalists, communicators, civic leaders, and storytellers while giving listeners a fresh perspective on community issues. The hosts are equally excited about another new format: bringing together guests who approach important topics from different viewpoints. Not debates. Not arguments. Simply conversations. The goal is to model respectful dialogue between people who may disagree while helping listeners understand the humanity behind different perspectives. As Trey says, people often discover they agree on far more than they initially assumed. Expanding Beyond Newton County The Town Square has always been rooted in Newton County, but the conversation is beginning to grow. Future episodes may feature leaders from neighboring communities including Jasper, Rockdale, Walton, Morgan, and Henry counties. Each community faces unique opportunities and challenges, yet many are navigating similar questions about growth, education, development, public safety, and community identity. Learning from one another benefits everyone. A Podcast That Continues to Grow As the hosts reflect on more than ninety episodes together, they’re grateful for the audience that has made the journey possible. Whether listeners agree with every opinion expressed or challenge ideas presented on the show, they remain committed to creating a space where thoughtful conversation matters more than winning an argument. That’s what “unity, not uniformity” has always meant. Looking ahead, listeners can expect: More community leadersMore regional voicesYouth-led episodesConversations featuring differing perspectivesExpanded coverage across East Metro AtlantaContinued commitment to respectful dialogueThe format may evolve. The guests may change. The geography may expand. But the mission remains exactly the same. Because communities become stronger when people choose conversation over caricature and curiosity over conflict. The next chapter of The Town Square Podcast is just getting started. Visit www.TheTownSquarePodcast.com for all of the episodes, blog posts, advertising opportunities, and so much more.

    30 min

  2. May 26

    DJ Seals: Scams, Second Chances & the Happiest Place on Earth — Episode 92

    After a full season of Candidate Conversations, The Town Square Podcast is back to regular programming — and Episode 92 brings us right back into the heart of what this show was built to do. 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 o

    55 min

  3. May 14

    Demond Mason: Service, Growth & District 2 Momentum | Candidate Conversations — Episode 91

    In this Candidate Conversations episode of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Commissioner Demond Mason, the current Newton County Board of Commissioners representative for District 2 and a candidate for re-election. 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.

    52 min

  4. May 14

    Tamara Strong: Your Voice, Our Future | Candidate Conversations — Episode 90

    In this Candidate Conversations episode of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Tamara Strong, candidate for Newton County Board of Commissioners District 2, for a conversation about community, public safety, youth programs, transparency, and what she believes leadership should look like in Newton County. 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.

    36 min

  5. May 12

    Jodi Lewis: Affordability, Advocacy & Accountability | Candidate Conversations — Episode 89

    In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall continue the Candidate Conversations series with Jodi Lewis, candidate for the Georgia House of Representatives in District 118. 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

    53 min

  6. May 7

    Houston Gaines: Delivering Conservative Results | Candidate Conversations — Episode 88

    In Episode 88 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall continue the Candidate Conversations series with State Representative Houston Gaines, candidate for U.S. Congress in Georgia’s 10th Congressional District. 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 Episode Sponsors SCB Construction Group This episode is sponsored in part by SCB Construction Group, a locally owned and community-driven commercial contractor serving Georgia and beyond. SCB specializes in turnkey design-build, design-bid, and commercial contracting services, including manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, churches, sports complexes, offices, and retail spaces. Learn more at SCBcg.com. 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.

    49 min

  7. May 5

    Wendell McNeal: Workhorse, Not Show Horse | Candidate Conversations — Episode 87

    In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Wendell McNeal, candidate for Georgia House of Representatives District 114, as part of the ongoing Candidate Conversations series. 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 no

    50 min

  8. Apr 30

    Nytravious “Nytro” Smith: Preserving Newton, Preparing for the Future | Candidate Conversations — Episode 86

    In this Candidate Conversations episode of The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey sits down with Nytravious “Nytro” Smith, candidate for Newton County Board of Commissioners District 4. 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 Episode Sponsors Main Street Land and Properties This episode is sponsored by Main Street Land and Properties, a trusted partner for c

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Not just another podcast, but a place to meet in the messy middle and have difficult discussions with transparency and diplomacy where the outcome is unity, not uniformity. The primary topics will be the local interests of Newton County, Georgia residents and those in the surrounding community.

Information

  • Creator
    Trey Bailey, Gabriel Stovall
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    93
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Town Square Podcast

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