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Episode Descriptions
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
50 years, and most of Gainesville has no idea it's there. Meet the woman keeping ballet's legacy alive on Riverside Drive.
On this episode of Gainesville! Who Knew?, we sit down with Jocelyn Buchanan, Artistic Director of Gainesville Ballet Company, to talk about a studio that's shaped generations of dancers since the 1970s. But as Jocelyn explains, what happens inside isn't just about pliés and pointe work — it's about building confidence, empathy, and character. "Ballet is much more than just steps," she says. "We teach life lessons." From a sensory-friendly Nutcracker to a Brenau University partnership to three-year-olds learning to use their imaginations, this is a look at how one Gainesville institution turns dancers into artists — and better people.
Cresswind Community Fun Part 2
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
In Part 2 of our Cresswind Community Fund episode, Gainesville Who Knew goes deeper into the real human impact of one of Hall County Georgia's most remarkable neighborhood charities. Mark Nestle, president of the Cresswind Community Fund at Cresswind Lake Lanier, shares stories that will stay with you — a grandmother and her grandchildren living in a tent, helped back into an apartment and stability. Seniors aging in place in their own Gainesville area homes thanks to a partnership with Habitat for Humanity Hall County. Food banks stretching every donated dollar ten times further than you'd expect.
We also hear from Dr. Michael Lipsitt, a retired cardiologist who now volunteers at the Good News Clinic in Gainesville, Georgia — one of the Fund's key partners providing free healthcare to uninsured seniors across Hall County.
Since its founding, the Cresswind Community Fund has granted over $1 million to local nonprofits and senior services organizations in Gainesville and Hall County. But as Mark says, the million dollars is not a ceiling — it's a starting point.
And here's the part that might surprise you: this model of community giving isn’t necessarily exclusive to Cresswind. Mark's message to every HOA, neighborhood, and individual in Gainesville and Hall County is simple — you can do this too.
Cresswind Community Fund
Gainesville's 50-Year Secret: Inside Gainesville Ballet Company
Agnes: The Ghost of Brenau University
The Cresswind Community Fund just reached $1 million. In this episode you’ll hear the story of how a community of neighbors built something that’s now changing lives for seniors across Gainesville and Hall County, Georgia
We sat down with Mark Nestle, President of The Cresswind Community Fund and Bud Baker, who leads Help Me Please - the volunteer program that provides hands-on assistance to Cresswind residents every day.
Mark shares how the Fund was founded, what drives the mission and what crossing this milestone means for the future. Bud walks us through everything Help Me Please actually does - and how you can be a part of it - whether you need a hand or want to lend one.
The Fund goes far beyond the gates of Cresswind. In Part 2, we get the full story of the seniors and programs it supports across the greater Gainesville community. Stay tuned.
Agnes: The Ghost of Brenau University
Agnes: The Ghost of Brenau University
She's been haunting the halls of Brenau University in Gainesville, Georgia for over a century — but who was Agnes, really? In this episode, Andy and Lauren dig into one of Hall County's most beloved ghost stories, weaving together local history, mystery, and more than a little drama. With guest voices bringing Agnes and her world to life through dramatic reenactments, this Georgia ghost story feels less like a podcast and more like settling in around a fire on a dark Southern night. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, you won't look at Brenau's beautiful historic campus quite the same way again.
Behind the Scenes
Ever wondered how our Gainesville! Who Knew? podcast actually comes together? In this special Behind the Scenes episode, we take you through our entire creative process—from that first spark of an idea to the final polished episode you hear.
We'll show you how we decide which stories deserve to be told, track down the perfect people to interview, dive deep into research to ask questions that really matter, and then bring it all together in the recording and editing process. It's messy, it's fascinating, and it's a labor of love for our hometown.
While you can still enjoy this audio version, we’re excited to bring you into our world visually and show you what really goes into uncovering Hall County's forgotten history.
This is our first episode as Gainesville! Who Knew? transitions to YouTube! You can watch the episode on our website: gainesvillewhoknew.com or on YouTube . We hope you enjoy it. Let us know.
Season 1 Wrap & Exciting News!
We've officially wrapped Season One of Gainesville Who Knew! Thank you so much for listening and joining us as we explored the hidden stories and fascinating history of Gainesville
We're taking a short hiatus, but for a great reason—we're bringing Gainesville Who Knew to YouTube! Andy and I are working behind the scenes to get our video production up and running so you can not only hear these amazing local stories but see them come to life.
We'll keep you posted on our YouTube launch and when Season Two kicks off. In the meantime, if you haven't caught all of Season One yet, now's the perfect time to binge!
Thanks for being part of our community storytelling project.
Talk soon, Lauren & Andy
General James Longstreet
General James Longstreet
General James Longstreet
Ever wonder what one of the Civil War's most controversial generals would say if you could sit down and talk with him today? In this episode of Gainesville Who Knew, we fire up the time machine to interview General James Longstreet—Confederate commander, friend of Ulysses S. Grant, and the man who spent his final years right here in Gainesville, Georgia.
After the war, Longstreet’s life took unexpected turns. But perhaps none more surprising than his transformation from Lee's "Old War Horse" into a Republican who worked alongside his former enemy Grant, a decision that made him one of the most hated men in the South.
Join the conversation as we explore why Longstreet ended up in Gainesville, what he really thought about that fateful third day at Gettysburg, and how a Confederate general became an unlikely advocate for reconciliation. It's a story of friendship, controversy, and second chances that connects directly to our local history.
Piedmont Hotel
General James Longstreet
General James Longstreet
Step back in time to Gainesville's golden age of hospitality with Jeff Pierce, curator of the Historic Piedmont Hotel and James Longstreet Museum. After an extensive renovation, this architectural gem has reopened its doors, revealing the stories of when it served as the social and commercial heart of Northeast Georgia in the late 1800s.
In this episode, Jeff shares what made the Piedmont Hotel the place to be during its heyday from the 1870s through 1900 – from the luxuries that set it apart to the notable guests who passed through its doors. Discover the fascinating connection between the hotel and Confederate General James Longstreet, who made Gainesville his home after the Civil War.
Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the stories behind Gainesville's historic buildings, this episode offers a rare glimpse into a beautifully preserved piece of our community's past. The museum is now open for tours – come hear why this landmark deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
Tommy Aaron Part 3
General James Longstreet
Gainesville's Downtown Renaissance: From Award-Winning Success to Midland's Future
In this thrilling conclusion to our Tommy Aaron series, Gainesville's own golf legend takes us inside his crowning achievement—winning the 1973 Masters Tournament as the first native Georgian to capture the green jacket
But the story isn't just about the victory itself. Tommy reveals how his wife’s recent surgery and complications meant he hadn't had much time to prepare or play before the tournament making his come-from-behind win even more remarkable.
Don't miss this intimate look at one of golf's most memorable underdog stories, told by the champion himself. Tommy Aaron's 1973 Masters victory remains a defining moment in Georgia golf history and a source of pride for Gainesville.
Don't forget—you can catch up on Parts 1 and 2 if you missed them!
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
SPLOST IX: What Gainesville & Hall County Voters Need to Know
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
SPLOST IX: What Gainesville & Hall County Voters Need to Know
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Adventures in Daytripping Episode 1
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!
Wisdom Project 2030
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
Puzzle Piece Pastries
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
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
Gainesville Theatre Alliance
We're a community of people who share a passion for Gainesville Who Knew. Our club provides a platform for like-minded individuals to come together, share knowledge, and learn from each other.