Gainesville! Who Knew?

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 st...

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 Cres...

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...

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...

We've wrapped up Season One of Gainesville Who Knew! Thank you to everyone who joined us on this journey exploring the hidden stories and fascinating history of Gainesville We're taking a short hiatus while we work on an exciting next step— Stay tuned for updates and the launch and Season Two. We'll be back soon with more untold stories from our community! gainesvillewhoknew.com and...

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...

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 Hot...

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 bef...

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 prestigiou...

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 decis...

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 transf...

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-ta...

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!...

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 th...

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, a...

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 paddlin...

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 trul...

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’...

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, th...

"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 over...

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 cre...

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...

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...

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! gainesvillewhoknew.com andyandlauren@gainesvillewhoknew.com

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.” gainesvillewhoknew.com andyandlauren@gainesvillewhoknew.com