In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Kathryn Dennis, President of the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, to talk about the power of local philanthropy and what it means to invest in our own community. Kathryn shares how the Foundation partners with donors and organizations to strengthen Central Georgia, from supporting the Macon Violence Prevention initiative to scholarship funds, Downtown Challenge Grants, and On The Table; a community-wide conversation designed to bring voices together and spark ideas.

It’s a look at how generosity, collaboration, and civic pride are helping shape a stronger future for Macon and the surrounding region.

In this episode of Macon It, we’re joined by Natalie Bouyett, Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb County Affordable Housing Fund, to talk about how the community is tackling housing challenges head-on. Natalie shares updates on current projects, the vision behind the Affordable Housing Fund, and how Macon-Bibb County is setting a new standard for affordable housing across Georgia. It’s a conversation about growth, opportunity, and building a stronger future where more families have a place to call home.

In this episode of Macon It, we’re joined by Alison Bender, Director of The Brookdale Resource Center, as we reflect on five years of transformation, hope, and community impact. Once a former school building, Brookdale has become a place of stability and new beginnings for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Alison walks us through Brookdale’s journey over the past five years, and we hear powerful interview clips from former residents and longtime staff members who have witnessed lives change firsthand. Their voices tell the story of what happens when a community comes together with compassion and purpose.

This episode is a celebration of what’s possible when Macon shows up for one another and a reminder that real change is built one life at a time.

Learn more about how you can help here: https://www.maconbibb.us/brookdalestaff/

In the Season 3 premiere of Macon It, we welcome back Macon-Bibb County Manager Keith Moffett for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, listening, and this unique moment in our city’s story. Keith shares what it’s like to oversee more than 20 county departments, how he ensures every voice is heard, and why community engagement is essential to getting things done.

Keith also introduces his 2026 theme: “The Macon Moment” — a reminder that this is a rare and exciting time when so much is happening, and everyone has a role to play.

In the final episode of Macon It for 2025, we’re joined by Mayor Lester Miller to reflect on a year filled with progress, milestones, and momentum in Macon-Bibb County. From the demolition of an abandoned 16-story hotel, major paving projects, to plans for a new arena, the launch of a Youth Council, and even a trip to Japan, we revisit the moments that defined the year.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Bryan Nichols, the mind and creative force behind the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza. Bryan shares how the (Christmas) light bulb first went on in his head for this idea, the huge amount of behind-the-scenes work that goes into bringing downtown to life each holiday season, and why Macon’s light show is unlike anything else in the country. We also talk through Bryan’s many contributions to Macon’s creative landscape and how his vision continues to shape the way our community celebrates together.

In this episode of Macon It, we talk with Kathy McCollum, President & CEO of the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank, about the Food Bank’s beginnings and its vital role in serving our region. We also discuss Macon-Bibb County’s recent $150,000 commitment to fight food insecurity and what that investment means for families across our community.

Look both ways — and then tune in! This week we’re joined by Greg Brown from the Macon-Bibb County Pedestrian Safety Review Board to talk about how everyone plays a role in keeping our community safe. Whether you’re walking, biking, or behind the wheel, Greg shares updates, insights, and easy safety tips to help make every trip a safe one.

We’re talking big ideas and even bigger community impact. Lynn Murphey from the Knight Foundation joins us to share how their projects are transforming Macon — from the new Mercer School of Medicine downtown to the Emerging Cities Champions making a difference in our neighborhoods. This is what it looks like when a city invests in its own bright future.

It started as a way to raise money and boost morale — now it's setting timelines (and comment sections) on fire. In this episode of Macon It, we’re joined by Fire Chief Shane Edwards and Captain Phillip Herndon to talk about the 2026 Middle Georgia Firefighter Calendar that’s got the world swooning.

From international buzz to behind-the-scenes stories, hear how this sizzling project went viral, what it means for the community, and why this calendar is about a lot more than just good looks. 🔥📆👨‍🚒