Gaston's Great

On this week's episode of Gaston's Great , we're joined by Dominick and Nate from the Gaston County Jaycees , a local organization dedicated to developing young leaders while making a lasting impact throughout our community. 🙌 From organizing community events and volunteer projects to creating opportunities for personal and professional growth, the Gaston County Jaycees are helping...

In this special Fourth of July episode of Gaston's Great , Steven Long reads the Declaration of Independence , the historic document adopted on July 4, 1776 , that forever changed the course of our nation's history. As we celebrate America's birthday, take a few moments to reflect on the words that declared the thirteen colonies' independence and laid the foundation for the fre...

This week on Gaston's Great, we're revisiting an inspiring conversation with Jeannine Beert, founder of Hearts 2 Home, an organization dedicated to bringing hope, comfort, and support to families throughout our community. 💜🏡 Jeannine shares the story behind Hearts 2 Home, the mission that drives her work, and the incredible impact the organization continues to make in the lives of thos...

 This week on Gaston's Great, we take a look back at our conversation with former Gaston County Police Chief Joseph Ramey, exploring the leadership lessons, community connections, and commitment to service that defined his remarkable career.  Drawing from decades of experience in law enforcement, Chief Ramey shares the lessons that shaped his career, the importance of building trust and stron...

On this re-release of Gaston's Great, we're revisiting our conversation with Jennie Stultz — a trailblazing leader who made history as Gastonia's first female mayor and has spent decades serving our community through education, public service, and nonprofit leadership. Jennie shares her journey from the classroom to City Hall, the lessons she learned leading a growing city, and her...

In this special re-release from Season 6, we're joined by Walter J. Hart , founder of Canine Companions Ltd, to discuss the incredible impact service dogs have on the lives of those they serve. 🐕‍🦺 Walter shares how these remarkable dogs help veterans living with PTSD, support individuals facing daily challenges, and bring comfort through therapy dog programs in our community. He also talks...

In this heartwarming re-release of Gaston’s Great, we revisit our conversation with Beth Patton and the incredible mission behind Camp Sunshine ☀️ Beth shares how Camp Sunshine creates unforgettable summer experiences for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy the joy, friendships, and memories that camp can bring. From how it all began to the lasting impact it has on campers...

This week on Gaston's Great, we’re revisiting an uplifting conversation with Carenda Deonne: Christian motivational speaker, author, and founder of Stress Easy LLC. 💜 In this inspiring episode, Carenda shares her journey of faith, perseverance, and purpose while encouraging others to overcome stress and life’s challenges with positivity and intentional living. 🙌📖 She also dives into her po...

🎙️ This week on Gaston's Great , we sit down with Elizabeth and Richard from the Gaston Community Foundation to talk about the incredible ways they are helping strengthen and support our community. 💙 Elizabeth first joined us back in 2021, and this episode gives us the chance to hear exciting updates, stories of impact, and how the foundation continues connecting generosity with real communi...

🐾🎙️ New Episode of Gaston’s Great! This week, we’re sitting down with Terry Kenny to talk about the incredible work being done through the Animal League of Gaston County, including their Low Cost Spay/Neuter Program!  We dive into:  ✔️ Why spay/neuter is so important for our community  ✔️ How these affordable services are helping local families  ✔️ The real impact on pet overpopulation in Gaston...

🎙️ What happens when three different faiths come together with one shared goal? 💙 In this episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Joan, Ray, and Mark from Interfaith Trialogue of Gastonia to talk about the power of conversation, understanding, and unity across different beliefs. From building meaningful relationships to strengthening our local community, this conversation dives into how...

🎧 This week on Gaston’s Great… We’re joined by Preston , Chair of the Ashbrook High School Foundation Board, and Kendall , Chairman, for a conversation all about impact, leadership, and investing in the next generation. From supporting local students to strengthening our community, they share the heart behind what they do and why it matters right here in Gaston County. 💙 Learn more about the Ash...

 Episode Re-Release With the Hunter Huss Huskies heading to the State Championships this weekend, we’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes of Gaston’s Great! In this episode, Steven sits down with Coach Troy Phillips to talk about the impact a coach can have on shaping young men’s lives, both on and off the court. From leadership and discipline to community and character, Coach Phillip...

 🎙️ This week on Gaston’s Great… we’re talking SMILES, community, and the passion behind local business! 😁  Steven sits down with Will Current , owner of Current Dentistry of Gastonia, to hear the story behind his journey into dentistry and how he’s making a difference right here in Gaston County, one smile at a time. 🦷✨ From building trust with patients to creating a welcoming environment that...

This week, we’re shining a light on the incredible impact of Bit of Hope Ranch right here in Gastonia, NC. A place where healing, hope, and connection come together through equine-assisted programs. 💙 In this episode, we talk about their mission, the lives being changed through their work, and how our local community continues to rally around those in need. It’s an inspiring conversation about co...

👗✨ On this episode of Gaston's Great , we’re thrilled to sit down with Pam Nixon , CEO of Poffie Girls , and Syble Latta , founder of this beloved bridal and formalwear boutique that has been creating unforgettable moments for generations. Since its beginnings, Poffie Girls has helped women and families celebrate life’s biggest milestones—from saying yes to the perfect wedding dress to find...

🎙️ This week on Gaston’s Great, we sit down with Dan Commerford, Lead Pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Gastonia. Dan shares his heart for serving Gastonia, the role faith plays in strengthening a community, and how leadership rooted in purpose can make a lasting impact. From personal calling to community outreach, this conversation highlights how faith shows up beyond the church walls. Wheth...

Settle in and enjoy a cozy Christmas episode of Gaston’s Great! ✨ Steven invites listeners to slow down and soak in the magic of the season with a heartwarming holiday lineup perfect for all ages. He begins by reading the beloved Christmas classic " ’Twas the Night Before Christmas" , bringing a timeless tradition to life. Along the way, Steven shares some of his favorite Christmas movi...

Episode 177 is on fire — in the best way! 🔥🚒 This week on Gaston’s Great , Steven sits down with the incredible team from the Gastonia Firefighters Foundation , an organization dedicated to supporting the brave men and women who protect our community every single day. We dive into:  • How the foundation serves Gastonia’s firefighters 💙  • Ways they provide support beyond the fire station  • The...

A special Thanksgiving message from Gaston’s Great! 🦃💛 In this holiday special, Steven sits down with his daughters, Hannah & Rachel, for a sweet family moment on the mic. They share what they’re thankful for this year, their favorite Thanksgiving traditions, and a few fun childhood memories that always make them smile. 🍁✨ Whether you’re cooking, traveling, or relaxing with family today, w...

In this episode of Gaston’s Great , we’re joined by Chris Ballard from the Gastonia Ghost Peppers , Gastonia’s newest and spiciest addition to the local sports scene! ⚾🔥 Chris shares how the Ghost Peppers came to life, the vision behind the team, and how they’re creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that’s bringing the community together in a big way. From game-day traditions and themed nig...

🔥 You don’t go from couch to 5K overnight… but every BIG change starts with one SMALL step👟 In today’s episode, we talk about how to build confidence, why baby steps beat crash plans , how to break through plateaus , nutrition tips that actually fit your life, and habits that keep you strong for years to come. 💪✨ Natalie Castro and Aikane Burnell (A.B.) also share how HiTone Fitness is investi...

This week on Gaston’s Great , we’re joined by Brent Messer , owner of Facet Foundry Jewelry Studio in Gastonia, NC. Since 1992, Brent and his team have been crafting stunning, custom jewelry pieces that blend creativity, precision, and a personal touch. From engagement rings to restorations, Facet Foundry has become a trusted name across Gaston County for artistry and integrity. In this episode, B...

On this episode of Gaston's Great , we’re honored to sit down with Jennie Stultz — the first female mayor of Gastonia (serving from 1999–2011) who went on to lead community and education initiatives across the region!  Jennie shares her journey from early-childhood education to public service, her passion for community revitalization and global connections through the Sister Cities program, a...

This week on Gaston's Great , we’re joined by Michelle Bowers and Renee Long from the Warlick Family YMCA — a place where fitness, family, and community come together! 💜 Discover how the YMCA stands apart from any other in the region, offering unique programs and opportunities that make a lasting impact across Gaston County. From youth development to wellness to community connection, Michell...