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Episode Descriptions
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
Join us as we celebrate Gainesville's recognition as Georgia's Downtown of the Year! We sit down with Nicole Parham, Main Street Manager, and Rusty Ligon, Community & Economic Development Director, to explore the remarkable transformation of downtown Gainesville and what's next for our city.
Discover the strategies and community dedication that earned Gainesville this prestigious honor, from historic preservation to creating vibrant public spaces. Then dive into the exciting plans for the Midland area revitalization—learn how downtown's success is being applied to transform this corridor into Gainesville's next thriving neighborhood.
Whether you're a longtime resident, business owner, or simply curious about smart urban development, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how our community is building a brighter future.
SPLOST IX: What Gainesville & Hall County Voters Need to Know
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
What is SPLOST IX and why should Gainesville residents care? On November 4th, Hall County voters will decide whether to renew the 1% sales tax that has funded infrastructure projects including parks, trails, libraries, public safety facilities and road improvements since 1985. We break down the ballot question and explain what's at stake for our community and help you make an informed decision.Stay up to date with all the exciting events happening in our community. From workshops to meetups, there is something for everyone.
Kendle's Krew
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
Tommy Aaron Part 2
When 8-year-old Kendle passed away from Aicardia, her mother Kristi Baggarly faced an unimaginable loss. But instead of retreating into grief, Kristi chose to honor her daughter's memory in a way that would bring joy to others - creating Kendle's Krew and their annual Krazy Kickball Tournament.
In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Kristi to hear how a mother's love transformed heartbreak into hope, building a community tradition that has touched hundreds of lives in Gainesville. We also speak with Jana Hutson, Principal of Sisu, about how local organizations have embraced this special event and what it means to be part of something bigger than ourselves.
This is the story of how one little girl's spirit continues to bring people together, proving that sometimes the most beautiful legacies are born from the deepest love. It's a reminder of the incredible resilience of the human heart and the power of community to turn tragedy into triumph.
Tommy Aaron Part 2
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
Tommy Aaron Part 2
Do you ever wonder about the person behind the legend. In this intimate second episode with golf legend Tommy Aaron, we go beyond the Masters green jacket to discover the man behind the champion. Born and raised in Gainesville, Tommy Aaron is a true hometown treasure who has remained deeply connected to his roots throughout his remarkable journey
Discover the incredible personal story of a self-taught golfer who learned the game by reading everything he could find about the sport , all while growing up in a town that didn't even have a golf course.
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
In this special mini episode, hosts Lauren Price and Andy Waterman down with Bruce Leyton for an intimate conversation about our unexpected journey into podcasting. Originally recorded for the latest Wisdom Project 2030 kickoff session, this candid interview dives into their backgrounds, experiences, and the "what made us think we could do this?" moment that led to creating Gainesville! Who Knew?
Hear the personal stories, career paths, and life experiences that gave them the confidence (or courage!) to pick up microphones and start sharing Gainesville's hidden stories with the world. From initial doubts to discovering their podcasting voices, this behind-the-scenes conversation reveals how two community members transformed their curiosity about local history and connections into a beloved podcast that captures the essence of what makes our area special.
Great Chicken War
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
Wisdom Project Mini Episode
Ready for our most egg-citing episode yet?
In 1961, Don Tyson made a BIG mistake - he claimed Springdale, Arkansas was the Poultry Capital of the World. Gainesville wasn't having it, and what followed was the Great Chicken War of 1961!
From ruffled feathers to backyard battles, this poultry pandemonium could only end one way: an epic chicken cook-off. And spoiler alert - Gainesville showed them who really rules the roost!
Don't miss this hilarious 'lost chapter' of local history that had two towns clucking mad.
Tommy Aaron Part 1
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
Join us on Gainesville! Who Knew? for an inspiring and entertaining conversation with local golf legend Tommy Aaron, a Gainesville native and 1973 Masters winner. In this first of two episodes, Tommy shares his incredible journey from growing up in Gainesville to winning one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. Hear his personal stories, lessons on perseverance, success in professional golf, and insights into his life beyond the golf course. Perfect for sports fans, golf enthusiasts, and anyone interested in hometown success stories and inspiring sports legends, Tommy’s story is a testament to dedication, resilience, and chasing your dreams. Don’t miss this inspiring episode—listen now and stay tuned for more coming soon.
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kim Martin, Executive Director of Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club, LCKC. We dive into the club's diverse offerings and explore how LCKC creates pathways for recreational paddlers to develop their skills while fostering a welcoming community on the water. Kim also highlights their specialized training programs for those interested in competitive paddling, detailing how the club supports athletes in their journey toward athletic competition.
Whether you're curious about getting started with kayaking or canoeing, looking for ways to improve your paddling skills, or interested in the competitive side of the sport, or just want to have fun on the water, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the area's premier paddling organizations and the passionate leadership driving its mission forward.
Tourism
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club
From Lake Lanier Olympic Park adventures to annual events like the Chicken Festival and the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, learn tourism treasures right in our backyard. Our guests share their insights and passion on what makes Gainesville a must-visit destination. Whether you're a longtime resident or planning your first trip, discover the stories and attractions that make Gainesville truly special. Tune in and see Gainesville through the eyes of those who know it best!
Helping Hall
In this episode of Gainesville! Who Knew? we shine a light on Helping Hall - an impactful and inspiring community organization. From food drives to housing assistance and youth programs, Helping Hall has been a lifeline for countless residents- but many locals still don’t know the full story.
Join us as we sit down with community leaders and those who’ve been directly impacted by Helping Hall’s work. Discover how this grassroots nonprofit is transforming lives across Gainesville and why it’s become a cornerstone of hope, resilience and local support,
Adventures in Daytripping Episode 2
We’re back on the road in Part 2 of our Day Tripping with Susan Moss series—this time diving deeper into the hidden gems and scenic escapes just beyond Gainesville. Local explorer Susan Moss returns with more can’t-miss day trip ideas, from charming small towns to nature trails, lakeside stops, and offbeat roadside finds across North Georgia. Whether you’re a lifelong local or new to the area, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next North Georgia adventure. Discover fun things to do near Gainesville, weekend getaway ideas, and the stories behind some of the region’s best-kept secrets.
Adventures in Daytripping Episode 1
In this episode of Gainesville! Who Knew? we’re taking you beyond the city limits for a breath of fresh air—literally. Join us and local Realtor Susan Moss as we explore some of the best day trips just 1 to 2 hours from Gainesville. Whether you’re looking for hidden springs, charming small towns, or gorgeous water falls, we’ve got the perfect destinations for a quick getaway without the overnight stay. Think of it as your go-to guide for spontaneous adventures, right in your backyard!
Quinlan Visual Arts Center
Discover how art brings Gainesville together - one brushstroke at a time.
In this episode, we hang out at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center — a place that’s been bringing art and community together for generations. Our guest, Nairika Cornett, Director of the Quilan, gives us an inside look at what makes the Quinlan so special, from the local art on the walls to the workshops and classes that keep creativity flowing. It’s a laid-back chat about the power of art, the importance of community spaces, and why places like the Quinlan matter more than ever.
Outakes!
The interview ended ... or so he thought. But we never hit stop.
In this dramatic twist of fate (okay, we just forgot to turn the mic off), our conversation with Zechariah Pierce, Artistic Director of the Gainesville Theatre Alliance, just kept rolling -and what unfolded was pure gold. Think backstage banter, unfiltered passion for the arts, and a few delightful surprises we couldn’t have scripted if we tried.
Welcome to outtakes ... and if you want to hear the original interview, it is Episode 1 available on our website gainesvillewhoknew.com, Apple Podcast, Spotify Podcast or A m a z o n M u s i c .
Wisdom Project 2030
Wisdom Project 2030
To quote Mark Twain, “ Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it
doesn’t matter.”
Mark had it just right - and in this episode we explore the timeless truth that with age comes wisdom - and how people over 55 in Gainesville are embracing their wisdom and their life experiences to make a more vibrant, supportive community for all.
And, by the way, you don’t need to be 55 to find this episode about Wisdom Project 2030 informative and inspiring
Jesse Jewel
Wisdom Project 2030
Talk about hidden gems! Boy oh boy - have we uncovered one. This episode is truly a blast from the past … and highlights a person who helped put Gainesville on the map. Enjoy!
Puzzle Piece Pastries
Do you have a sweet tooth? Would you like to make a difference in the lives of young adults with autism and other disabilities by indulging that sweet tooth? Then this episode with Brittany Chadwick, Operational Manager, of Puzzle Piece Pastries is a “must hear.”
Gainesville Theatre Alliance
Are you a theatre lover? Would you like to hear about some truly great young actors in the making right here in Gainesville? Then todays episode with Zechariah Pierce, the Artistic Director of Gainesville Theatre Alliance is a must hear!