From Cookie Sales to Community Impact

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Bryan Nichols, creator of the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, to talk about the work and heart behind one of our community’s favorite holiday traditions. As the award-winning display celebrates its 10th year, Bryan shares what it takes to bring the lights to life and what it means to watch people grow up with something he helped create. From engagements and visits with newborns to families laughing and dancing together, the lights have become the backdrop for countless memories. We talk about why keeping this experience free and welcoming to everyone is so important, and how a little Christmas magic can bring a whole community together.

What does the County Attorney’s Office have to do with the progress you see around Macon? More than you might think! Chief Assistant County Attorney Michael McNeill joins Macon It to unpack some of the biggest misconceptions about his office and share how his work helps move Macon-Bibb forward. From reviewing contracts for purchases big and small to writing agenda items for commissioners to vote on and helping advance initiatives like the Blight Tax program, Michael takes us behind the scenes of local government. Plus, he shares one of his favorite parts of the job: driving around Macon, seeing progress firsthand, and knowing he had a hand in making it happen.

In this episode of Macon It, we welcome back Stephen Adams, Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority, to pull back the curtain on one of the organizations shaping Macon's future. Stephen explains what the Industrial Authority actually does; from recruiting major industries and supporting the expansion of existing businesses to helping create the high-quality jobs that drive our local economy. We also discuss how the Industrial Authority works alongside schools, local governments, and community partners to prepare the next generation of workers. That includes the newly launched Advanced Manufacturing Pathway, an innovative program connecting students with hands-on training and career opportunities in one of the region's fastest-growing industries. Whether you've wondered how a company decides to locate in Macon or how today's students are preparing for tomorrow's careers, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and partnerships helping build Macon-Bibb's future.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Emily Hopkins, Executive Director of Historic Macon, to explore how preserving historic homes and buildings helps preserve the stories of our community. Emily shares Historic Macon's mission to revitalize neighborhoods by protecting the places that make Macon unique and explains why preservation is about more than architecture, it's about people, culture, and community. We also celebrate the 50th anniversary of Historic Macon's legendary Fall Flea Market, taking place October 2-4. Emily gives us a behind-the-scenes look at one of Macon's favorite traditions, where every purchase supports Historic Macon's preservation work and helps ensure our city's history continues to thrive for generations to come.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Julia Morrison, Executive Director of the Piedmont Grand Opera House and the Robins Financial Capitol Theatre at Mercer University, to talk about the role the performing arts play in building a vibrant community. Julia shares how these historic venues are creating welcoming spaces where everyone can experience the arts, whether it's your first show or your hundredth. We discuss why taking a chance on a performance you've never considered can lead to unforgettable experiences, and she gives us a preview of the exciting lineup of concerts, Broadway productions, Cirque performances, family shows, and more coming to Macon's stages. Whether you're a lifelong theatergoer or someone who's never stepped foot in a space for the arts this episode might just inspire you to try something new. https://www.thegrandmacon.com/

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Natalie Allen, Recreation Programmer for Macon-Bibb County, to learn about the person behind many of the programs that bring our community together. From summer camps and after-school programs to Movies in the Park, adaptive recreation, fitness classes, and special events, Natalie helps create opportunities for people of all ages to connect, learn, and have fun. We talk about the impact recreation has on building stronger neighborhoods, creating lifelong memories, and ensuring everyone has a place to belong. Whether you're looking for your child's next adventure or a new way to get involved in the community, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Macon-Bibb Recreation is enriching lives every day.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Bibb County School District Superintendent Dr. Dan Sims as students head back to the classroom for a new school year. We talk about his journey to Macon, the first week of school, and what drives his passion for making sure every child has the opportunity to succeed. Dr. Sims also shares why educating the next generation goes far beyond the classroom. From teachers and families to businesses, organizations, and neighbors, it takes an entire community showing up for our students. It’s a conversation about opportunity, encouragement, and what’s possible when Macon comes together to invest in its kids.

This special edition of Macon It, hosted by Chris Floore, takes you behind the scenes of one of the biggest projects in Macon-Bibb's history, the new Macon Arena. Chris is joined by Will Christenbury of MFA Project Management and David Aiello of OVG to explore the vision and intentional design behind the arena as the community looks ahead to its groundbreaking. From architecture inspired by the Ocmulgee River and Macon's musical legacy to fan experience, flexibility, and community gathering spaces, every detail was designed with purpose. Learn how this next-generation venue will honor Macon's past while creating new opportunities for concerts, sporting events, conventions, and unforgettable memories for decades to come.

In this episode of Macon It, we're turning up the volume with a conversation about one of Macon's most beloved traditions, Bragg Jam. Joining us are current Bragg Jam President Olivia Walter, and former board members Everett Verner and Sean Pritchard.  Together, we dive into the history of Bragg Jam, how it has evolved from a memorial concert into one of Macon's signature events, and what it takes to bring a citywide concert crawl to life. We also share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and why Bragg Jam continues to be a driving force for live music, local businesses, and Macon's creative culture. Whether you're a longtime Bragg Jam fan or thinking about attending for the first time, this episode is your backstage pass to the people and passion behind the music.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with the CEO of Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia Krystal Crawford to talk about the impact Girl Scouts has on young girls across our community. While many people know Girl Scouts for their famous cookies, Krystal shares how the organization is about so much more — from building confidence and leadership skills to encouraging service, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. We talk about how Girl Scouts are preparing the next generation of leaders, empowering girls to make a difference in their communities, and creating opportunities that help them grow into strong, capable change-makers. It's a conversation about leadership, service, and the lasting impact of investing in our youth.