Gaston's Great

On this episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Steve D'Avria, Senior Vice President of the Gaston Business Association. From his early days at the Gaston County YMCA to leading initiatives in operations, communications, and downtown development, Steve shares his passion for strengthening our local business community. We dive into the evolution of downtown Gastonia, the importance o...

This week on Gaston’s Great , we welcome Adrien Sanders, the Recovery Court Coordinator for Gaston County, whose mission goes far beyond the legal system. Adrien speaks with clarity, compassion, and conviction about the need to see individuals in recovery not as former addicts, but as people — human beings worthy of dignity, belonging, and hope. In a society that too often defines others by their...

This is a re-release of episode 128! In this episode, we sit down with Susanna Kavanaugh, Executive Director of Least of These Carolinas, a nonprofit making a powerful impact in the lives of foster children and families. Susanna shares the heart behind the organization, the real-life needs they meet daily, and their vision for the future. Whether you're passionate about child advocacy, lookin...

In this week’s episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Andrea Stephens, a powerful force for good and a standout leader in Gaston County. 💪✨ As a key part of United Way of Gaston County, Andrea shares her journey—how she got started, what fuels her passion, and the leadership lessons she's learned along the way. From personal stories to community insight, Andrea offers inspiration...

In this inspiring episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Carenda Deonne—Christian motivational speaker, author, and founder of Stress Easy LLC. Carenda shares her powerful S.M.I.L.E. Method (Sleep, Meditation, Inventory, Laughter, Education), helping listeners reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and grow in personal leadership. WATCH NOW She also dives into what it means to lead...

Join us this week as we sit down with Jessica and Stephanie from the Gaston Arts Council to explore the vibrant arts scene in Gaston County. Discover how the Council has been a cornerstone for local artists and cultural initiatives since 1979, fostering creativity and community engagement. Learn about their ongoing programs, upcoming events, and how they're nurturing local talent to enrich ou...

This week on Gaston's Great , we sit down with retired Gaston County Chief of Police, Joseph Ramey , to talk about his inspiring journey in law enforcement and beyond. With decades of experience, Chief Ramey shares invaluable leadership lessons, the importance of community partnerships, and the wisdom he’d pass on to his 20-year-old self. WATCH NOW We explore the legacy he's built throug...

🎥 Watch Now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/elsV6u80aXk In this episode of Gaston's Great , we’re joined by Dr. Brian Wysong , co-owner of Gaston Family Practice , a trusted local healthcare provider in Gaston County. Brian shares how his passion for people and community inspired him to open a family medical practice rooted in care, compassion, and connection.  Whether you’re interested in lead...

 🐕‍🦺 In this episode , we chat with Walter J. Hart, founder of Canine Companions Ltd, about the incredible ways service dogs are transforming lives! From helping veterans with PTSD to expanding therapy dog programs in Gastonia, Walter shares heartwarming stories and the mission behind his organization. 🎖️🐾 Whether you're a dog lover or just love hearing about lives being changed, this epis...

🌟 This week on Gaston's Great , we're thrilled to welcome Darlene Norton, the inspiring Executive Director of Gaston Residential Services (GRS)! 🏠💪 GRS is making a difference by empowering individuals with developmental and other disabilities to live fulfilling lives as respected members of our community. 🌈👏 From residential supports to employment services, Darlene shares how GRS is...

This week on Gaston's Great , we’re joined by Garrison Batchelor, Stormwater Administrator for the Town of Dallas, NC! 🌟 Garrison explains how the Stormwater Department works to comply with the Clean Water Act, ensuring our local streams, creeks, and rivers stay free from harmful pollutants. 🏞️ Discover their efforts to educate citizens, businesses, and school-aged children about stormwater...

This special episode features the standout moments of 2024 when Steven asked our guests the big question: Why do you think Gaston County is such a great place? 🏡✨ Hear heartfelt answers from local heroes, nonprofits, and community leaders as they share what makes our county so special. 🎙️❤️ Let’s celebrate the pride of Gaston together! 🙌🌟 #GastonsGreat  🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston&apo...

Get ready to feel the holiday spirit with this special Christmas episode of Gaston's Great! 🎅📖 Steven takes center stage, reading The Three Kings by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, sharing festive Christmas jokes and trivia, and unveiling his Gaston County twist on The Night Before Christmas. 🎁 Laugh, reflect, and celebrate the season with us—there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don&a...

This week on Gaston's Great , we sit down with Karen Creech , Program Director of The Center in Gaston County. 🌟 The Center is a vital adult day care providing care, connection, and enrichment for adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia. 🧠💙 Karen shares how their programs—like social activities, exercise sessions, art projects, and even a prom—help enhance quality of life and bring joy to thei...

This week, we welcome David Phelps from The Salvation Army to discuss the incredible work being done right here in Gaston and Lincoln County. From providing essential services like food to supporting families during difficult times, The Salvation Army continues to make a profound difference in our community. David shares the challenges, triumphs, and heartwarming stories that define their mission...

Happy Thanksgiving from Gaston's Great ! 🎙️ This week, Steven and Naomi are bringing the holiday cheer with funny Thanksgiving stories and lighthearted questions that'll keep you entertained. 😂✨ We're also sharing YOUR Facebook comments on why you're thankful for Gaston County—because there's so much to love about our community. ❤️ Tune in for laughs, gratitude, and a wh...

In this episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with representatives from HealthNet Gaston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, affordable healthcare to low-income, uninsured residents of Gaston County. We explore their mission to assist individuals with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, and discuss how they coordin...

In this episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Amy Spencer, Executive Director of the Gaston County Education Foundation, to explore their mission of enhancing educational opportunities in Gaston County! 🎉📝 We dive into their amazing grant programs, like the Ron L. Ensley Grant and the Jennie Stultz Grant for Art Education, which have provided over $1 million to support local educator...

In this week's episode, we sit down with Stephen A. Crane, Executive Director of Our Neighbors, Inc., a Gastonia-based nonprofit dedicated to improving affordable housing opportunities in the community. Stephen shares insights into their mission, the challenges of developing and managing affordable housing, and the impact of their programs on local residents. We also discuss their collaborati...

 This Halloween, join Steven and 2 surprise guest for a fun-filled episode of spooky jokes and unexpected laughs! From funny stories to Halloween favorites, this episode has just the right amount of "scare" to make you smile. Perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit! 🎃  🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great!   If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, le...

In this episode of Gaston's Great, we chat with Scott and Madison from the Mite Organization, a nonprofit revolutionizing the world of charitable giving. Learn how they ensure transparency and direct impact by connecting donors to vetted global projects, empowering communities, and tracking every donation's real-world effects. Discover the stories behind their efforts to make the world a...

 In this enlightening episode, we sit down with representatives from the Gaston Literacy Council to explore their vital mission of promoting literacy and education in our community. Join us as we discuss the impactful programs they offer, the challenges they face, and how everyone can play a role in fostering a culture of reading and learning. Tune in to discover how words can empower individuals...

In the conclusion of our two-part series, Rodney Freeman and Mark Taylor share powerful stories of impact and the challenges Bountiful Blessings faces in serving the community. Join us as we explore the future of their mission and how they continue to bring hope through their weekly food distributions. FACEBOOK 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great!   If you enjoyed this episode, pleas...

 In this episode of Gaston’s Great , we sit down with Rodney Freeman and Mark Taylor from Bountiful Blessings, a local nonprofit dedicated to making a difference every Thursday by providing food to those in need. In part one of this inspiring two-part series, learn about how Bountiful Blessings was founded, their mission, and the impact they are having on the community. Discover the heart behind t...

In part two of our conversation with Gaston Together, Leslie Lee and Amia Massey return to dive deeper into their vision for a more connected and collaborative Gaston County. We explore ongoing projects, future goals, and the power of bringing diverse groups to the table to solve community challenges. Don’t miss this insightful continuation as we uncover how Gaston Together is driving progress and...