<h3>Politically Homeless, Still Hopeful</h3><h3> </h3>Marshall McCart returns to The Town Square Podcast for a candid trip through political burnout, public surveillance, permanent standard time, Covington music history, and the stubborn hope that keeps him from hanging up his boots for good.Marshall McCart has spent roughly 25 years kicking at political anthills.Sometimes the ants bite back.On Episode 97 of The Town Square Podcast, the writer and local-history enthusiast behind The Piedmont Chronicles returns nearly a year after his first appearance. The self-described “semi-professional anthill kicker” arrives with fewer political sparks flying than usual—but not because he has stopped paying attention.He is tired.After years of party politics, grassroots advocacy, citizen journalism, and public argument, Marshall has pulled back to ask a difficult question: after all that banging against the proverbial brick wall, what is there to show for it?That question opens a wide-ranging conversation about public trust, political identity, technology, music, family, local memory, and the possibility that the sensible center is larger than the loudest voices make it appear.<h3>When political engagement becomes political exhaustion</h3>Marshall traces his civic involvement through the Libertarian Party, the GOP, independent efforts, grassroots groups, and his work with The Piedmont Chronicles. He has not stopped caring about local issues, but he has deliberately unplugged from some of the daily political combat.Part of that fatigue, he says, comes from feeling politically homeless. He does not recognize himself in the loudest parts of the MAGA movement, and he has no interest in the socialist wing of the Democratic Party. If those are the only choices being offered, he argues, a great many people are being left without a political home.That is where the Town Square idea of the “messy middle” comes in.Marshall’s sharpest political observation may also be the episode’s most hopeful: the opposing fringes can dominate attention without representing most people. “The messy middle is the majority,” he says. The challenge is getting that majority to stop treating exhaustion as surrender—and to start building relationships broad enough to matter.<h3>Flock cameras and the price of security</h3>The conversation turns local when Trey and Marshall discuss automated license plate readers, including the Flock camera systems now familiar along roads, near schools, and across multiple jurisdictions.Both acknowledge the strongest argument for the technology: it can help law enforcement locate wanted vehicles, develop leads, protect campuses, and solve serious crimes. Marshall does not wave those benefits away. His concern is what happens when a powerful tool built for a legitimate purpose becomes part of a much larger surveillance network.The question is not whether the cameras can be useful. It is whether usefulness alone should settle the debate.Marshall argues that privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns deserve more than a shrug—especially when ordinary people who are suspected of no crime have their vehicle movements captured and made searchable. Trey wrestles with the same tradeoff from the perspective of school safety: a little more warning can matter enormously, but that does not erase the civil-liberties question.Their practical conclusion is refreshingly unglamorous. If residents object, the answer is not vandalism. It is coalition-building, public comment, and votes before city councils and county commissions when contracts come up for approval or renewal.<h3>A surprisingly serious argument about the clock</h3>Marshall has another long-running civic cause: ending the twice-yearly time change.But he is not campaigning for permanent daylight saving time. He wants permanent standard time—what he calls natural time.His case begins with winter mornings. In the western portion of a time zone, permanent daylight saving time can push sunrise uncomfortably late. He also points to the disruption people experience when clocks spring forward and fall back. His preferred answer is not to keep rearranging the clock, but to return to standard time year-round.Trey gives him room to make the full argument, and Marshall brings the enthusiasm of a man who has apparently been waiting 15 years for somebody to ask.<h3>Rock and roll is not dead</h3>Then the episode changes key.Marshall is a lifelong musician whose musical Mount Rushmore begins with Led Zeppelin and Steely Dan. He and Trey trade favorite records, marvel at John Bonham’s impossible-sounding right foot, and swap stories about the strange studio tricks producers use to capture the right tone.The conversation becomes a piece of Covington and Newton County music history. Marshall remembers a spring 1996 show at the Wiley farm in North Oxford, where his band Southern Freight shared the bill with Trey’s Rocketboy. There was a homemade stage, a natural amphitheater, hundreds of people, and—if memory serves—a bass player in a dress. The statute of limitations has probably expired.They name-check musicians, bands, old venues, and friendships that formed a local scene: Sweet Harmony, Fox Hill Road, Chris, Jon and Scott, Hannah Thomas, Thomas Tillman, Corey Crowder, Drew Parker, and others. Marshall also sends listeners toward King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Black Pumas, while Trey makes the case for the Appalachian rock of Cigarettes @ Sunset.The thread running through it all is not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It is the way music preserves a community’s memory. A farm show, a Christmas-light rivalry, a set at a local pub, or a band that lasted only a season can still become part of the story a town tells about itself.<h3>Homeownership, the economy, and the American promise</h3>Because Marshall also works in real estate and real estate education, the conversation eventually returns to economics. He describes the Covington, Newton County, and East Metro market as location-dependent and generally steady, while noting that values and sales activity can vary sharply by property and neighborhood.The larger discussion is less about a market forecast than about ownership itself. Trey wonders what happens when younger adults are told to believe in the American dream but cannot see a realistic path to owning a home or building a stake in the system. Marshall connects that frustration to a political economy dominated less by open competition than by alliances among big government, big business, and other concentrated interests.Whether listeners share every part of that diagnosis or not, the underlying concern is worth hearing: people invest in a system when they believe they can belong to it.<h3>The reason he has not quit</h3>Near the end, Trey asks Marshall what gives him hope.Marshall pauses, then comes back to faith and people.“I believe in people,” he says. There are bad actors, certainly, but there are also a great many people who care about their neighbors and want life to be better for their children. The world will never be perfect, but that does not excuse us from trying to improve the piece of it within reach.Marshall says he will get back into the fray at some point. For now, the anthill kicker is catching his breath, listening to a little Zeppelin, and waiting for the right moment to lace up the boots again.That may be the messy middle in its most honest form: tired, skeptical, occasionally cranky—and not quite ready to give up. <h3>Links Mentioned</h3>1.   Watch Episode 97 on YouTube: <a href="https://youtu.be/NYvszSlLlKk" rel="nofollow">https://youtu.be/NYvszSlLlKk</a>2.   The Piedmont Chronicles: <a href="https://www.thepiedmontchronicles.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.thepiedmontchronicles.com/</a>3.   The Town Square Podcast: <a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/</a>4.   Support The Town Square Podcast: <a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate</a>5.   Flock Safety license plate readers: <a href="https://www.flocksafety.com/products/license-plate-readers" rel="nofollow">https://www.flocksafety.com/products/license-plate-readers</a>6.   Fox Hill Road: <a href="https://www.foxhillroad.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.foxhillroad.com/</a>7.   Cigarettes @ Sunset: <a href="https://www.cigarettesatsunset.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.cigarettesatsunset.com/</a>8.   King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: <a href="https://kinggizzardandthelizardwizard.com/" rel="nofollow">https://kinggizzardandthelizardwizard.com/</a>9.   Black Pumas: <a href="https://www.blackpumas.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.blackpumas.com/</a> <h3>Sponsor / Advertiser</h3><h3>Angel Pitts, United Bank Wealth Management</h3>This episode is made possible in part by Angel Pitts, United Bank Wealth Management Advisor, serving Covington and Madison, Georgia. Angel helps clients think through long-term investing, diversification, and personalized financial planning while building relationships that go beyond investments.Phone: 770-412-4932Website: <a href="https://www.accessunited.com/wealth-management" rel="nofollow">https://www.accessunited.com/wealth-management</a>When you contact Angel, please let her know The Town Square Podcast sent you.Disclosure: Wealth Management Services are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, may lose value, are not a bank deposit, and are not insured by any federal government agency.

Politically Homeless, Still Hopeful Marshall McCart returns to The Town Square Podcast for a candid trip through political burnout, public surveillance, permanent standard time, Covington music history, and the stubborn hope that keeps him from hanging up his boots for good. Marshall McCart has spent roughly 25 years kicking at political anthills. Sometimes the ants bite back. On Episode 97 of The Town Square Podcast, the writer and local-history enthusiast behind The Piedmont Chronicles returns nearly a year after his first appearance. The self-described “semi-professional anthill kicker” arrives with fewer political sparks flying than usual—but not because he has stopped paying attention. He is tired. After years of party politics, grassroots advocacy, citizen journalism, and public argument, Marshall has pulled back to ask a difficult question: after all that banging against the proverbial brick wall, what is there to show for it? That question opens a wide-ranging conversation about public trust, political identity, technology, music, family, local memory, and the possibility that the sensible center is larger than the loudest voices make it appear.When political engagement becomes political exhaustionMarshall traces his civic involvement through the Libertarian Party, the GOP, independent efforts, grassroots groups, and his work with The Piedmont Chronicles. He has not stopped caring about local issues, but he has deliberately unplugged from some of the daily political combat. Part of that fatigue, he says, comes from feeling politically homeless. He does not recognize himself in the loudest parts of the MAGA movement, and he has no interest in the socialist wing of the Democratic Party. If those are the only choices being offered, he argues, a great many people are being left without a political home. That is where the Town Square idea of the “messy middle” comes in. Marshall’s sharpest political observation may also be the episode’s most hopeful: the opposing fringes can dominate attention without representing most people. “The messy middle is the majority,” he says. The challenge is getting that majority to stop treating exhaustion as surrender—and to start building relationships broad enough to matter.Flock cameras and the price of securityThe conversation turns local when Trey and Marshall discuss automated license plate readers, including the Flock camera systems now familiar along roads, near schools, and across multiple jurisdictions. Both acknowledge the strongest argument for the technology: it can help law enforcement locate wanted vehicles, develop leads, protect campuses, and solve serious crimes. Marshall does not wave those benefits away. His concern is what happens when a powerful tool built for a legitimate purpose becomes part of a much larger surveillance network. The question is not whether the cameras can be useful. It is whether usefulness alone should settle the debate. Marshall argues that privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns deserve more than a shrug—especially when ordinary people who are suspected of no crime have their vehicle movements captured and made searchable. Trey wrestles with the same tradeoff from the perspective of school safety: a little more warning can matter enormously, but that does not erase the civil-liberties question. Their practical conclusion is refreshingly unglamorous. If residents object, the answer is not vandalism. It is coalition-building, public comment, and votes before city councils and county commissions when contracts come up for approval or renewal.A surprisingly serious argument about the clockMarshall has another long-running civic cause: ending the twice-yearly time change. But he is not campaigning for permanent daylight saving time. He wants permanent standard time—what he calls natural time. His case begins with winter mornings. In the western portion of a time zone, permanent daylight saving time can push sunrise uncomfortably late. He also points to the disruption people experience when clocks spring forward and fall back. His preferred answer is not to keep rearranging the clock, but to return to standard time year-round. Trey gives him room to make the full argument, and Marshall brings the enthusiasm of a man who has apparently been waiting 15 years for somebody to ask.Rock and roll is not deadThen the episode changes key. Marshall is a lifelong musician whose musical Mount Rushmore begins with Led Zeppelin and Steely Dan. He and Trey trade favorite records, marvel at John Bonham’s impossible-sounding right foot, and swap stories about the strange studio tricks producers use to capture the right tone. The conversation becomes a piece of Covington and Newton County music history. Marshall remembers a spring 1996 show at the Wiley farm in North Oxford, where his band Southern Freight shared the bill with Trey’s Rocketboy. There was a homemade stage, a natural amphitheater, hundreds of people, and—if memory serves—a bass player in a dress. The statute of limitations has probably expired. They name-check musicians, bands, old venues, and friendships that formed a local scene: Sweet Harmony, Fox Hill Road, Chris, Jon and Scott, Hannah Thomas, Thomas Tillman, Corey Crowder, Drew Parker, and others. Marshall also sends listeners toward King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Black Pumas, while Trey makes the case for the Appalachian rock of Cigarettes @ Sunset. The thread running through it all is not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It is the way music preserves a community’s memory. A farm show, a Christmas-light rivalry, a set at a local pub, or a band that lasted only a season can still become part of the story a town tells about itself.Homeownership, the economy, and the American promiseBecause Marshall also works in real estate and real estate education, the conversation eventually returns to economics. He describes the Covington, Newton County, and East Metro market as location-dependent and generally steady, while noting that values and sales activity can vary sharply by property and neighborhood. The larger discussion is less about a market forecast than about ownership itself. Trey wonders what happens when younger adults are told to believe in the American dream but cannot see a realistic path to owning a home or building a stake in the system. Marshall connects that frustration to a political economy dominated less by open competition than by alliances among big government, big business, and other concentrated interests. Whether listeners share every part of that diagnosis or not, the underlying concern is worth hearing: people invest in a system when they believe they can belong to it.The reason he has not quitNear the end, Trey asks Marshall what gives him hope. Marshall pauses, then comes back to faith and people. “I believe in people,” he says. There are bad actors, certainly, but there are also a great many people who care about their neighbors and want life to be better for their children. The world will never be perfect, but that does not excuse us from trying to improve the piece of it within reach. Marshall says he will get back into the fray at some point. For now, the anthill kicker is catching his breath, listening to a little Zeppelin, and waiting for the right moment to lace up the boots again. That may be the messy middle in its most honest form: tired, skeptical, occasionally cranky—and not quite ready to give up. Links Mentioned1. Watch Episode 97 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NYvszSlLlKk 2. The Piedmont Chronicles: https://www.thepiedmontchronicles.com/ 3. The Town Square Podcast: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/ 4. Support The Town Square Podcast: https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate 5. Flock Safety license plate readers: https://www.flocksafety.com/products/license-plate-readers 6. Fox Hill Road: https://www.foxhillroad.com/ 7. Cigarettes @ Sunset: https://www.cigarettesatsunset.com/ 8. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: https://kinggizzardandthelizardwizard.com/ 9. Black Pumas: https://www.blackpumas.com/ Sponsor / AdvertiserAngel Pitts, United Bank Wealth ManagementThis episode is made possible in part by Angel Pitts, United Bank Wealth Management Advisor, serving Covington and Madison, Georgia. Angel helps clients think through long-term investing, diversification, and personalized financial planning while building relationships that go beyond investments. Phone: 770-412-4932 Website: https://www.accessunited.com/wealth-management When you contact Angel, please let her know The Town Square Podcast sent you. Disclosure: Wealth Management Services are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, may lose value, are not a bank deposit, and are not insured by any federal government agency.

Politically Homeless, Still Hopeful Marshall McCart returns to The Town Square Podcast for a candid trip through political burnout, public surveillance, permanent standard time, Covington music history, and the stubborn hope that keeps him from hanging up his boots for good.Marshall McCart has spent roughly 25 years kicking at political anthills.Sometimes the ants bite back.On Episode 97 of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast, the writer and local-history enthusiast behind&nbsp;The Piedmont Chronicles&nbsp;returns nearly a year after his first appearance. The self-described “semi-professional anthill kicker” arrives with fewer political sparks flying than usual—but not because he has stopped paying attention.He is tired.After years of party politics, grassroots advocacy, citizen journalism, and public argument, Marshall has pulled back to ask a difficult question: after all that banging against the proverbial brick wall, what is there to show for it?That question opens a wide-ranging conversation about public trust, political identity, technology, music, family, local memory, and the possibility that the sensible center is larger than the loudest voices make it appear.When political engagement becomes political exhaustionMarshall traces his civic involvement through the Libertarian Party, the GOP, independent efforts, grassroots groups, and his work with The Piedmont Chronicles. He has not stopped caring about local issues, but he has deliberately unplugged from some of the daily political combat.Part of that fatigue, he says, comes from feeling politically homeless. He does not recognize himself in the loudest parts of the MAGA movement, and he has no interest in the socialist wing of the Democratic Party. If those are the only choices being offered, he argues, a great many people are being left without a political home.That is where the Town Square idea of the “messy middle” comes in.Marshall’s sharpest political observation may also be the episode’s most hopeful: the opposing fringes can dominate attention without representing most people. “The messy middle is the majority,” he says. The challenge is getting that majority to stop treating exhaustion as surrender—and to start building relationships broad enough to matter.Flock cameras and the price of securityThe conversation turns local when Trey and Marshall discuss automated license plate readers, including the Flock camera systems now familiar along roads, near schools, and across multiple jurisdictions.Both acknowledge the strongest argument for the technology: it can help law enforcement locate wanted vehicles, develop leads, protect campuses, and solve serious crimes. Marshall does not wave those benefits away. His concern is what happens when a powerful tool built for a legitimate purpose becomes part of a much larger surveillance network.The question is not whether the cameras can be useful. It is whether usefulness alone should settle the debate.Marshall argues that privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns deserve more than a shrug—especially when ordinary people who are suspected of no crime have their vehicle movements captured and made searchable. Trey wrestles with the same tradeoff from the perspective of school safety: a little more warning can matter enormously, but that does not erase the civil-liberties question.Their practical conclusion is refreshingly unglamorous. If residents object, the answer is not vandalism. It is coalition-building, public comment, and votes before city councils and county commissions when contracts come up for approval or renewal.A surprisingly serious argument about the clockMarshall has another long-running civic cause: ending the twice-yearly time change.But he is not campaigning for permanent daylight saving time. He wants permanent&nbsp;standard&nbsp;time—what he calls natural time.His case begins with winter mornings. In the western portion of a time zone, permanent daylight saving time can push sunrise uncomfortably late. He also points to the disruption people experience when clocks spring forward and fall back. His preferred answer is not to keep rearranging the clock, but to return to standard time year-round.Trey gives him room to make the full argument, and Marshall brings the enthusiasm of a man who has apparently been waiting 15 years for somebody to ask.Rock and roll is not deadThen the episode changes key.Marshall is a lifelong musician whose musical Mount Rushmore begins with Led Zeppelin and Steely Dan. He and Trey trade favorite records, marvel at John Bonham’s impossible-sounding right foot, and swap stories about the strange studio tricks producers use to capture the right tone.The conversation becomes a piece of Covington and Newton County music history. Marshall remembers a spring 1996 show at the Wiley farm in North Oxford, where his band Southern Freight shared the bill with Trey’s Rocketboy. There was a homemade stage, a natural amphitheater, hundreds of people, and—if memory serves—a bass player in a dress. The statute of limitations has probably expired.They name-check musicians, bands, old venues, and friendships that formed a local scene: Sweet Harmony, Fox Hill Road, Chris, Jon and Scott, Hannah Thomas, Thomas Tillman, Corey Crowder, Drew Parker, and others. Marshall also sends listeners toward King Gizzard &amp; The Lizard Wizard and Black Pumas, while Trey makes the case for the Appalachian rock of Cigarettes @ Sunset.The thread running through it all is not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It is the way music preserves a community’s memory. A farm show, a Christmas-light rivalry, a set at a local pub, or a band that lasted only a season can still become part of the story a town tells about itself.Homeownership, the economy, and the American promiseBecause Marshall also works in real estate and real estate education, the conversation eventually returns to economics. He describes the Covington, Newton County, and East Metro market as location-dependent and generally steady, while noting that values and sales activity can vary sharply by property and neighborhood.The larger discussion is less about a market forecast than about ownership itself. Trey wonders what happens when younger adults are told to believe in the American dream but cannot see a realistic path to owning a home or building a stake in the system. Marshall connects that frustration to a political economy dominated less by open competition than by alliances among big government, big business, and other concentrated interests.Whether listeners share every part of that diagnosis or not, the underlying concern is worth hearing: people invest in a system when they believe they can belong to it.The reason he has not quitNear the end, Trey asks Marshall what gives him hope.Marshall pauses, then comes back to faith and people.“I believe in people,” he says. There are bad actors, certainly, but there are also a great many people who care about their neighbors and want life to be better for their children. The world will never be perfect, but that does not excuse us from trying to improve the piece of it within reach.Marshall says he will get back into the fray at some point. For now, the anthill kicker is catching his breath, listening to a little Zeppelin, and waiting for the right moment to lace up the boots again.That may be the messy middle in its most honest form: tired, skeptical, occasionally cranky—and not quite ready to give up. Links Mentioned1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch Episode 97 on YouTube:&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/NYvszSlLlKk" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://youtu.be/NYvszSlLlKk</a>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Piedmont Chronicles:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thepiedmontchronicles.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.thepiedmontchronicles.com/</a>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/</a>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Support The Town Square Podcast:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate</a>5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flock Safety license plate readers:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flocksafety.com/products/license-plate-readers" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.flocksafety.com/products/license-plate-readers</a>6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fox Hill Road:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxhillroad.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.foxhillroad.com/</a>7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cigarettes @ Sunset:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cigarettesatsunset.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.cigarettesatsunset.com/</a>8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;King Gizzard &amp; The Lizard Wizard:&nbsp;<a href="https://kinggizzardandthelizardwizard.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://kinggizzardandthelizardwizard.com/</a>9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Black Pumas:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blackpumas.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.blackpumas.com/</a> Sponsor / AdvertiserAngel Pitts, United Bank Wealth ManagementThis episode is made possible in part by&nbsp;Angel Pitts, United Bank Wealth Management Advisor, serving Covington and Madison, Georgia. Angel helps clients think through long-term investing, diversification, and personalized financial planning while building relationships that go beyond investments.Phone:&nbsp;770-412-4932Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.accessunited.com/wealth-management" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.accessunited.com/wealth-management</a>When you contact Angel, please let her know The Town Square Podcast sent you.Disclosure:&nbsp;Wealth Management Services are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, may lose value, are not a bank deposit, and are not insured by any federal government agency.

Marshall McCart of The Piedmont Chronicles: Politics, Privacy, and Local Music — Episode 97

Data Centers, School Budgets & Speaking Your Mind with Larry CoxOne of the greatest challenges facing local communities today isn't a lack of information—it's determining which information to trust.That theme surfaced repeatedly during Episode 96 of The Town Square Podcast as Rockdale County Board of Education member Larry Cox joined Trey Bailey and guest co-host Dr. Gregory Brown for a wide-ranging discussion about public education, school funding, and one of Georgia's hottest local government topics: data centers.Known throughout Rockdale County for his "Speak Your Mind" podcast, Cox has built a reputation for saying exactly what he thinks. Whether listeners agree with him or not, one thing is certain—he rarely leaves anyone wondering where he stands.But this conversation wasn't simply about opinions.It was about understanding how decisions are made and why good public policy requires more than headlines and social media posts. From Construction to Community LeadershipBefore entering public office, Larry Cox spent more than three decades in the construction industry, serving as Vice President of the highway division for one of the Southeast's leading concrete cutting companies.His work has taken him across airports, military installations, and major interstate projects throughout the Southeast. That background shaped the way he approaches government.Rather than viewing public service through an ideological lens, Cox says he tends to approach problems the same way he approaches construction projects: identify the issue, gather the facts, and solve the problem.That practical mindset eventually led him to seek public office after years of community involvement. A Different Kind of CampaignWhen Larry Cox first ran for the Rockdale County Board of Education, he wasn't well known.His second campaign was very different.Rather than avoiding controversial issues, Cox openly campaigned on changing district leadership, reducing spending, restoring classroom discipline, increasing transparency, and pursuing additional tax relief for senior citizens.According to Cox, voters weren't looking for vague promises.They were looking for someone willing to explain exactly what he intended to do.Now, roughly halfway through his first term, he believes much of that campaign agenda has already begun taking shape. School Boards: What They Actually DoOne of the most helpful portions of the conversation focused on a question many citizens misunderstand:What does a school board actually do?Cox explained that while many residents expect school board members to solve day-to-day operational issues, Georgia law assigns boards three primary responsibilities:<ul><li>Hiring and evaluating the superintendent</li><li>Fiscal oversight of the district</li><li>Establishing board policy</li></ul>Everything else is largely delegated to district administration.That distinction matters because many of the complaints school board members receive are actually operational concerns rather than governance issues.Understanding that difference helps citizens better direct their questions and expectations. School Budgets Are More Than NumbersThe conversation then shifted toward one of Trey Bailey's favorite themes—viewing a school budget as a moral document.Every budget reflects priorities.Every dollar spent communicates what a district values.But budgets also represent something else: the burden placed on taxpayers who fund those priorities.Larry Cox argued that districts must consider not only what happens inside the classroom but also the financial realities families face outside school.He challenged listeners to think about the "whole child" differently.While educators often define the whole child through academic, emotional, and social support, Cox suggested another perspective.Children spend far more time outside school than inside it.If excessive taxes make it harder for grandparents to buy medicine or families to afford housing, those financial pressures ultimately affect students as well.For Cox, stewardship means balancing educational investment with community affordability. Why School Funding Is So ComplicatedThe discussion naturally moved into Georgia's school funding formula.School districts receive much of their funding through the state's Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula, but local property taxes remain a critical piece of the equation.That creates challenges.Enrollment shifts.Healthcare mandates increase costs.Retirement obligations grow.Meanwhile, districts often have little control over many of those expenses.Cox described how Rockdale County reduced its operating budget while simultaneously absorbing state-mandated cost increases—a reminder that reducing spending on paper often requires significantly larger internal cuts.The conversation also explored the long-term sustainability of relying so heavily on property taxes to fund public education.Both hosts agreed that conversations at the Georgia Capitol will likely continue for years as lawmakers search for more sustainable funding models. Finding the Next SuperintendentAnother timely topic involved Rockdale County's search for its next superintendent.Rather than discussing specific candidates, Cox shared the qualities he believes matter most.He wanted someone with demonstrated success—not simply theories or promises.He wanted a leader who understood fiscal responsibility.And perhaps most importantly, he wanted someone prepared to make difficult decisions if enrollment declines eventually require districts to redraw attendance zones or repurpose school facilities.Those aren't easy conversations.But leadership often requires preparing for tomorrow's challenges rather than reacting to yesterday's problems.(At the time of airing this episode, Dr. Stephanie Johnson has been named the new superintendent of Rockdale County Schools, click <a href="https://www.rockdaleschools.org/p/~board/district-featured-news/post/board-of-education-announces-dr-stephanie-johnson-as-new-superintendent-of-rcps" rel="nofollow">HERE</a> for the press release.) The Data Center DebateThe second half of the episode focused on one of the fastest-growing issues facing communities across Georgia.Data centers.As artificial intelligence continues expanding, demand for large-scale computing facilities has exploded.With that growth has come concern.Residents worry about water usage.Electricity demand.Noise.Environmental impacts.Tax incentives.Infrastructure.Rather than relying on internet searches or social media discussions, Larry Cox spent weeks interviewing mechanical engineers, acoustic engineers, and leaders from Georgia's Public Service Commission.His goal wasn't to convince people.His goal was to understand the facts.Those interviews challenged several assumptions he previously held.According to experts featured in his series, modern data centers increasingly rely on closed-loop or waterless cooling systems that dramatically reduce ongoing water consumption.Infrastructure costs, Cox noted, are generally paid upfront by developers rather than existing ratepayers.Georgia's electrical grid, according to Public Service Commission leadership, is being expanded alongside this growth rather than after it.While public debate often centers on potential risks, Cox argues communities should also carefully evaluate economic opportunities—including expanded commercial tax bases that could eventually reduce the tax burden on homeowners.He also acknowledged that earlier generations of data centers created many of the concerns still circulating today.Technology, however, continues to evolve rapidly. Separating Facts from FearPerhaps the most important takeaway from Episode 96 had nothing to do with school budgets or data centers.It had to do with information.Throughout the discussion, the hosts repeatedly encouraged listeners not to settle for headlines or viral posts.Instead, they urged citizens to attend meetings.Ask questions.Read source documents.Listen to experts.Evaluate competing claims.Only then can communities make informed decisions about issues that will shape their future.In an era where information is abundant but trust is scarce, thoughtful civic engagement remains one of the most valuable tools citizens possess. Final ThoughtsEpisode 96 reminds us that healthy communities require more than strong opinions.They require strong conversations.Whether discussing public education, taxation, or emerging technologies, lasting solutions are usually found somewhere in the messy middle.That has always been the mission of The Town Square Podcast.Not uniformity.But unity.Built one conversation at a time. Episode SponsorAll Air ServicesWhen your home deserves dependable comfort, call the local professionals at All Air Services.Whether it's routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete HVAC replacement, All Air Services has built its reputation on honest advice, exceptional workmanship, and customer-first service.Mention The Town Square Podcast when scheduling your repair and receive $25 off your service call.📞 770-761-9914🌐 <a href="https://www.allairservices.com" rel="nofollow">allairservices.com</a>

Data Centers, School Budgets & Speaking Your Mind with Larry Cox One of the greatest challenges facing local communities today isn't a lack of information—it's determining which information to trust. That theme surfaced repeatedly during Episode 96 of The Town Square Podcast as Rockdale County Board of Education member Larry Cox joined Trey Bailey and guest co-host Dr. Gregory Brown for a wide-ranging discussion about public education, school funding, and one of Georgia's hottest local government topics: data centers. Known throughout Rockdale County for his "Speak Your Mind" podcast, Cox has built a reputation for saying exactly what he thinks. Whether listeners agree with him or not, one thing is certain—he rarely leaves anyone wondering where he stands. But this conversation wasn't simply about opinions. It was about understanding how decisions are made and why good public policy requires more than headlines and social media posts. From Construction to Community Leadership Before entering public office, Larry Cox spent more than three decades in the construction industry, serving as Vice President of the highway division for one of the Southeast's leading concrete cutting companies. His work has taken him across airports, military installations, and major interstate projects throughout the Southeast. That background shaped the way he approaches government. Rather than viewing public service through an ideological lens, Cox says he tends to approach problems the same way he approaches construction projects: identify the issue, gather the facts, and solve the problem. That practical mindset eventually led him to seek public office after years of community involvement. A Different Kind of Campaign When Larry Cox first ran for the Rockdale County Board of Education, he wasn't well known. His second campaign was very different. Rather than avoiding controversial issues, Cox openly campaigned on changing district leadership, reducing spending, restoring classroom discipline, increasing transparency, and pursuing additional tax relief for senior citizens. According to Cox, voters weren't looking for vague promises. They were looking for someone willing to explain exactly what he intended to do. Now, roughly halfway through his first term, he believes much of that campaign agenda has already begun taking shape. School Boards: What They Actually Do One of the most helpful portions of the conversation focused on a question many citizens misunderstand: What does a school board actually do? Cox explained that while many residents expect school board members to solve day-to-day operational issues, Georgia law assigns boards three primary responsibilities:Hiring and evaluating the superintendentFiscal oversight of the districtEstablishing board policyEverything else is largely delegated to district administration. That distinction matters because many of the complaints school board members receive are actually operational concerns rather than governance issues. Understanding that difference helps citizens better direct their questions and expectations. School Budgets Are More Than Numbers The conversation then shifted toward one of Trey Bailey's favorite themes—viewing a school budget as a moral document. Every budget reflects priorities. Every dollar spent communicates what a district values. But budgets also represent something else: the burden placed on taxpayers who fund those priorities. Larry Cox argued that districts must consider not only what happens inside the classroom but also the financial realities families face outside school. He challenged listeners to think about the "whole child" differently. While educators often define the whole child through academic, emotional, and social support, Cox suggested another perspective. Children spend far more time outside school than inside it. If excessive taxes make it harder for grandparents to buy medicine or families to afford housing, those financial pressures ultimately affect students as well. For Cox, stewardship means balancing educational investment with community affordability. Why School Funding Is So Complicated The discussion naturally moved into Georgia's school funding formula. School districts receive much of their funding through the state's Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula, but local property taxes remain a critical piece of the equation. That creates challenges. Enrollment shifts. Healthcare mandates increase costs. Retirement obligations grow. Meanwhile, districts often have little control over many of those expenses. Cox described how Rockdale County reduced its operating budget while simultaneously absorbing state-mandated cost increases—a reminder that reducing spending on paper often requires significantly larger internal cuts. The conversation also explored the long-term sustainability of relying so heavily on property taxes to fund public education. Both hosts agreed that conversations at the Georgia Capitol will likely continue for years as lawmakers search for more sustainable funding models. Finding the Next Superintendent Another timely topic involved Rockdale County's search for its next superintendent. Rather than discussing specific candidates, Cox shared the qualities he believes matter most. He wanted someone with demonstrated success—not simply theories or promises. He wanted a leader who understood fiscal responsibility. And perhaps most importantly, he wanted someone prepared to make difficult decisions if enrollment declines eventually require districts to redraw attendance zones or repurpose school facilities. Those aren't easy conversations. But leadership often requires preparing for tomorrow's challenges rather than reacting to yesterday's problems. (At the time of airing this episode, Dr. Stephanie Johnson has been named the new superintendent of Rockdale County Schools, click HERE for the press release.) The Data Center Debate The second half of the episode focused on one of the fastest-growing issues facing communities across Georgia. Data centers. As artificial intelligence continues expanding, demand for large-scale computing facilities has exploded. With that growth has come concern. Residents worry about water usage. Electricity demand. Noise. Environmental impacts. Tax incentives. Infrastructure. Rather than relying on internet searches or social media discussions, Larry Cox spent weeks interviewing mechanical engineers, acoustic engineers, and leaders from Georgia's Public Service Commission. His goal wasn't to convince people. His goal was to understand the facts. Those interviews challenged several assumptions he previously held. According to experts featured in his series, modern data centers increasingly rely on closed-loop or waterless cooling systems that dramatically reduce ongoing water consumption. Infrastructure costs, Cox noted, are generally paid upfront by developers rather than existing ratepayers. Georgia's electrical grid, according to Public Service Commission leadership, is being expanded alongside this growth rather than after it. While public debate often centers on potential risks, Cox argues communities should also carefully evaluate economic opportunities—including expanded commercial tax bases that could eventually reduce the tax burden on homeowners. He also acknowledged that earlier generations of data centers created many of the concerns still circulating today. Technology, however, continues to evolve rapidly. Separating Facts from Fear Perhaps the most important takeaway from Episode 96 had nothing to do with school budgets or data centers. It had to do with information. Throughout the discussion, the hosts repeatedly encouraged listeners not to settle for headlines or viral posts. Instead, they urged citizens to attend meetings. Ask questions. Read source documents. Listen to experts. Evaluate competing claims. Only then can communities make informed decisions about issues that will shape their future. In an era where information is abundant but trust is scarce, thoughtful civic engagement remains one of the most valuable tools citizens possess. Final Thoughts Episode 96 reminds us that healthy communities require more than strong opinions. They require strong conversations. Whether discussing public education, taxation, or emerging technologies, lasting solutions are usually found somewhere in the messy middle. That has always been the mission of The Town Square Podcast. Not uniformity. But unity. Built one conversation at a time. Episode Sponsor All Air Services When your home deserves dependable comfort, call the local professionals at All Air Services. Whether it's routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete HVAC replacement, All Air Services has built its reputation on honest advice, exceptional workmanship, and customer-first service. Mention The Town Square Podcast when scheduling your repair and receive $25 off your service call. 📞 770-761-9914 🌐 allairservices.com

Data Centers, School Budgets &amp; Speaking Your Mind with Larry CoxOne of the greatest challenges facing local communities today isn't a lack of information—it's determining which information to trust.That theme surfaced repeatedly during Episode 96 of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;as Rockdale County Board of Education member Larry Cox joined Trey Bailey and guest co-host Dr. Gregory Brown for a wide-ranging discussion about public education, school funding, and one of Georgia's hottest local government topics: data centers.Known throughout Rockdale County for his "Speak Your Mind" podcast, Cox has built a reputation for saying exactly what he thinks. Whether listeners agree with him or not, one thing is certain—he rarely leaves anyone wondering where he stands.But this conversation wasn't simply about opinions.It was about understanding how decisions are made and why good public policy requires more than headlines and social media posts. From Construction to Community LeadershipBefore entering public office, Larry Cox spent more than three decades in the construction industry, serving as Vice President of the highway division for one of the Southeast's leading concrete cutting companies.His work has taken him across airports, military installations, and major interstate projects throughout the Southeast. That background shaped the way he approaches government.Rather than viewing public service through an ideological lens, Cox says he tends to approach problems the same way he approaches construction projects: identify the issue, gather the facts, and solve the problem.That practical mindset eventually led him to seek public office after years of community involvement. A Different Kind of CampaignWhen Larry Cox first ran for the Rockdale County Board of Education, he wasn't well known.His second campaign was very different.Rather than avoiding controversial issues, Cox openly campaigned on changing district leadership, reducing spending, restoring classroom discipline, increasing transparency, and pursuing additional tax relief for senior citizens.According to Cox, voters weren't looking for vague promises.They were looking for someone willing to explain exactly what he intended to do.Now, roughly halfway through his first term, he believes much of that campaign agenda has already begun taking shape. School Boards: What They Actually DoOne of the most helpful portions of the conversation focused on a question many citizens misunderstand:What does a school board actually do?Cox explained that while many residents expect school board members to solve day-to-day operational issues, Georgia law assigns boards three primary responsibilities:<ul><li>Hiring and evaluating the superintendent</li><li>Fiscal oversight of the district</li><li>Establishing board policy</li></ul>Everything else is largely delegated to district administration.That distinction matters because many of the complaints school board members receive are actually operational concerns rather than governance issues.Understanding that difference helps citizens better direct their questions and expectations. School Budgets Are More Than NumbersThe conversation then shifted toward one of Trey Bailey's favorite themes—viewing a school budget as a moral document.Every budget reflects priorities.Every dollar spent communicates what a district values.But budgets also represent something else: the burden placed on taxpayers who fund those priorities.Larry Cox argued that districts must consider not only what happens inside the classroom but also the financial realities families face outside school.He challenged listeners to think about the "whole child" differently.While educators often define the whole child through academic, emotional, and social support, Cox suggested another perspective.Children spend far more time outside school than inside it.If excessive taxes make it harder for grandparents to buy medicine or families to afford housing, those financial pressures ultimately affect students as well.For Cox, stewardship means balancing educational investment with community affordability. Why School Funding Is So ComplicatedThe discussion naturally moved into Georgia's school funding formula.School districts receive much of their funding through the state's Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula, but local property taxes remain a critical piece of the equation.That creates challenges.Enrollment shifts.Healthcare mandates increase costs.Retirement obligations grow.Meanwhile, districts often have little control over many of those expenses.Cox described how Rockdale County reduced its operating budget while simultaneously absorbing state-mandated cost increases—a reminder that reducing spending on paper often requires significantly larger internal cuts.The conversation also explored the long-term sustainability of relying so heavily on property taxes to fund public education.Both hosts agreed that conversations at the Georgia Capitol will likely continue for years as lawmakers search for more sustainable funding models. Finding the Next SuperintendentAnother timely topic involved Rockdale County's search for its next superintendent.Rather than discussing specific candidates, Cox shared the qualities he believes matter most.He wanted someone with demonstrated success—not simply theories or promises.He wanted a leader who understood fiscal responsibility.And perhaps most importantly, he wanted someone prepared to make difficult decisions if enrollment declines eventually require districts to redraw attendance zones or repurpose school facilities.Those aren't easy conversations.But leadership often requires preparing for tomorrow's challenges rather than reacting to yesterday's problems.(At the time of airing this episode, Dr. Stephanie Johnson has been named the new superintendent of Rockdale County Schools, click <a href="https://www.rockdaleschools.org/p/~board/district-featured-news/post/board-of-education-announces-dr-stephanie-johnson-as-new-superintendent-of-rcps" rel="noopener noreferrer">HERE</a> for the press release.) The Data Center DebateThe second half of the episode focused on one of the fastest-growing issues facing communities across Georgia.Data centers.As artificial intelligence continues expanding, demand for large-scale computing facilities has exploded.With that growth has come concern.Residents worry about water usage.Electricity demand.Noise.Environmental impacts.Tax incentives.Infrastructure.Rather than relying on internet searches or social media discussions, Larry Cox spent weeks interviewing mechanical engineers, acoustic engineers, and leaders from Georgia's Public Service Commission.His goal wasn't to convince people.His goal was to understand the facts.Those interviews challenged several assumptions he previously held.According to experts featured in his series, modern data centers increasingly rely on closed-loop or waterless cooling systems that dramatically reduce ongoing water consumption.Infrastructure costs, Cox noted, are generally paid upfront by developers rather than existing ratepayers.Georgia's electrical grid, according to Public Service Commission leadership, is being expanded alongside this growth rather than after it.While public debate often centers on potential risks, Cox argues communities should also carefully evaluate economic opportunities—including expanded commercial tax bases that could eventually reduce the tax burden on homeowners.He also acknowledged that earlier generations of data centers created many of the concerns still circulating today.Technology, however, continues to evolve rapidly. Separating Facts from FearPerhaps the most important takeaway from Episode 96 had nothing to do with school budgets or data centers.It had to do with information.Throughout the discussion, the hosts repeatedly encouraged listeners not to settle for headlines or viral posts.Instead, they urged citizens to attend meetings.Ask questions.Read source documents.Listen to experts.Evaluate competing claims.Only then can communities make informed decisions about issues that will shape their future.In an era where information is abundant but trust is scarce, thoughtful civic engagement remains one of the most valuable tools citizens possess. Final ThoughtsEpisode 96 reminds us that healthy communities require more than strong opinions.They require strong conversations.Whether discussing public education, taxation, or emerging technologies, lasting solutions are usually found somewhere in the messy middle.That has always been the mission of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast.Not uniformity.But unity.Built one conversation at a time. Episode SponsorAll Air ServicesWhen your home deserves dependable comfort, call the local professionals at&nbsp;All Air Services.Whether it's routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete HVAC replacement, All Air Services has built its reputation on honest advice, exceptional workmanship, and customer-first service.Mention&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;when scheduling your repair and receive&nbsp;$25 off&nbsp;your service call.📞&nbsp;770-761-9914🌐&nbsp;<a href="https://www.allairservices.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">allairservices.com</a>

Larry Cox Explains Data Centers, School Funding & the Future of Rockdale County — Episode 96

The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas & What’s AheadSometimes the best conversations happen when there’s no guest sitting across the table.After several weeks of candidate interviews and election coverage, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall return for a wide-ranging conversation about life, community, travel, family, and the future of The Town Square Podcast.The episode begins with reflection on the recent Candidate Conversation series, which gave local voters an opportunity to hear directly from individuals seeking public office. Rather than debates or rapid-fire questions, the goal was simple: create space for honest conversation and help listeners better understand the people behind the campaigns.For Trey and Gabriel, that approach perfectly reflects the mission of the podcast—creating unity without demanding uniformity.Life Beyond the PodcastA lot has happened during the brief break between episodes.Trey shares the excitement of watching his twin daughters graduate from Eastside High School and begin the next chapter at the University of Georgia. Orientation brought excitement, information overload, and the realization that college arrives much faster than parents expect.Gabriel talks about preparing for a much-needed vacation after balancing journalism, ministry, and community leadership. For the first time in more than two decades, he’ll be able to completely unplug from both professions simultaneously—a rare opportunity that he’s determined to embrace.The conversation also pauses to acknowledge the passing of longtime Richmond County Board of Education member Walter Eubanks, serving as a reminder that life is both precious and unpredictable.Why Travel Changes PerspectiveOne of the highlights of the episode is Trey’s reflection on a family trip through England and Scotland.Instead of focusing on major tourist attractions, the family intentionally spent time in small fishing villages, rural countryside, and the Scottish Highlands. From driving narrow roads lined with towering hedges to exploring tiny island communities known for producing world-famous Scotch whisky, the experience offered something deeper than sightseeing.It offered perspective.As beautiful as the United Kingdom was, Trey admits that returning home reminded him how much he appreciates living in America.The conversation isn’t about comparing nations or claiming one is better than another. Instead, it’s about recognizing that travel often deepens appreciation for home while broadening appreciation for other cultures.Gabriel echoes that sentiment through his own international experiences, noting that seeing the world often strengthens gratitude for the place we call home.America Through Someone Else’s EyesThe discussion naturally shifts to the FIFA World Cup currently being hosted across North America.One of the unexpected joys has been watching international visitors experience American culture for the first time.Social media has been filled with visitors discovering everything from Buc-ee’s to Atlanta lemon pepper wings—and, perhaps most importantly, ranch dressing.It’s a lighthearted reminder that every culture has something unique to offer, and sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable.Those moments also reinforce one of the recurring themes of The Town Square Podcast: genuine relationships begin with curiosity rather than assumptions.The Future of The Town Square PodcastPerhaps the biggest announcement of the episode is where the podcast is headed next.After more than ninety episodes, Trey and Gabriel believe it’s time to expand—not by changing who they are, but by growing what they do.One exciting addition will feature young people taking over the microphones.Inspired by conversations with students through the TaylorMade Foundation and other community partnerships, the hosts plan to dedicate future episodes to student voices, allowing the next generation to lead conversations that matter to them.It’s an opportunity to showcase future journalists, communicators, civic leaders, and storytellers while giving listeners a fresh perspective on community issues.The hosts are equally excited about another new format: bringing together guests who approach important topics from different viewpoints.Not debates.Not arguments.Simply conversations.The goal is to model respectful dialogue between people who may disagree while helping listeners understand the humanity behind different perspectives.As Trey says, people often discover they agree on far more than they initially assumed.Expanding Beyond Newton CountyThe Town Square has always been rooted in Newton County, but the conversation is beginning to grow.Future episodes may feature leaders from neighboring communities including Jasper, Rockdale, Walton, Morgan, and Henry counties.Each community faces unique opportunities and challenges, yet many are navigating similar questions about growth, education, development, public safety, and community identity.Learning from one another benefits everyone.A Podcast That Continues to GrowAs the hosts reflect on more than ninety episodes together, they’re grateful for the audience that has made the journey possible.Whether listeners agree with every opinion expressed or challenge ideas presented on the show, they remain committed to creating a space where thoughtful conversation matters more than winning an argument.That’s what “unity, not uniformity” has always meant.Looking ahead, listeners can expect:<ul><li>More community leaders</li><li>More regional voices</li><li>Youth-led episodes</li><li>Conversations featuring differing perspectives</li><li>Expanded coverage across East Metro Atlanta</li><li>Continued commitment to respectful dialogue</li></ul>The format may evolve.The guests may change.The geography may expand.But the mission remains exactly the same.Because communities become stronger when people choose conversation over caricature and curiosity over conflict.The next chapter of The Town Square Podcast is just getting started.Visit <a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com" rel="nofollow">www.TheTownSquarePodcast.com</a> for all of the episodes, blog posts, advertising opportunities, and so much more.

The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas & What’s Ahead Sometimes the best conversations happen when there’s no guest sitting across the table. After several weeks of candidate interviews and election coverage, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall return for a wide-ranging conversation about life, community, travel, family, and the future of The Town Square Podcast. The episode begins with reflection on the recent Candidate Conversation series, which gave local voters an opportunity to hear directly from individuals seeking public office. Rather than debates or rapid-fire questions, the goal was simple: create space for honest conversation and help listeners better understand the people behind the campaigns. For Trey and Gabriel, that approach perfectly reflects the mission of the podcast—creating unity without demanding uniformity. Life Beyond the Podcast A lot has happened during the brief break between episodes. Trey shares the excitement of watching his twin daughters graduate from Eastside High School and begin the next chapter at the University of Georgia. Orientation brought excitement, information overload, and the realization that college arrives much faster than parents expect. Gabriel talks about preparing for a much-needed vacation after balancing journalism, ministry, and community leadership. For the first time in more than two decades, he’ll be able to completely unplug from both professions simultaneously—a rare opportunity that he’s determined to embrace. The conversation also pauses to acknowledge the passing of longtime Richmond County Board of Education member Walter Eubanks, serving as a reminder that life is both precious and unpredictable. Why Travel Changes Perspective One of the highlights of the episode is Trey’s reflection on a family trip through England and Scotland. Instead of focusing on major tourist attractions, the family intentionally spent time in small fishing villages, rural countryside, and the Scottish Highlands. From driving narrow roads lined with towering hedges to exploring tiny island communities known for producing world-famous Scotch whisky, the experience offered something deeper than sightseeing. It offered perspective. As beautiful as the United Kingdom was, Trey admits that returning home reminded him how much he appreciates living in America. The conversation isn’t about comparing nations or claiming one is better than another. Instead, it’s about recognizing that travel often deepens appreciation for home while broadening appreciation for other cultures. Gabriel echoes that sentiment through his own international experiences, noting that seeing the world often strengthens gratitude for the place we call home. America Through Someone Else’s Eyes The discussion naturally shifts to the FIFA World Cup currently being hosted across North America. One of the unexpected joys has been watching international visitors experience American culture for the first time. Social media has been filled with visitors discovering everything from Buc-ee’s to Atlanta lemon pepper wings—and, perhaps most importantly, ranch dressing. It’s a lighthearted reminder that every culture has something unique to offer, and sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable. Those moments also reinforce one of the recurring themes of The Town Square Podcast: genuine relationships begin with curiosity rather than assumptions. The Future of The Town Square Podcast Perhaps the biggest announcement of the episode is where the podcast is headed next. After more than ninety episodes, Trey and Gabriel believe it’s time to expand—not by changing who they are, but by growing what they do. One exciting addition will feature young people taking over the microphones. Inspired by conversations with students through the TaylorMade Foundation and other community partnerships, the hosts plan to dedicate future episodes to student voices, allowing the next generation to lead conversations that matter to them. It’s an opportunity to showcase future journalists, communicators, civic leaders, and storytellers while giving listeners a fresh perspective on community issues. The hosts are equally excited about another new format: bringing together guests who approach important topics from different viewpoints. Not debates. Not arguments. Simply conversations. The goal is to model respectful dialogue between people who may disagree while helping listeners understand the humanity behind different perspectives. As Trey says, people often discover they agree on far more than they initially assumed. Expanding Beyond Newton County The Town Square has always been rooted in Newton County, but the conversation is beginning to grow. Future episodes may feature leaders from neighboring communities including Jasper, Rockdale, Walton, Morgan, and Henry counties. Each community faces unique opportunities and challenges, yet many are navigating similar questions about growth, education, development, public safety, and community identity. Learning from one another benefits everyone. A Podcast That Continues to Grow As the hosts reflect on more than ninety episodes together, they’re grateful for the audience that has made the journey possible. Whether listeners agree with every opinion expressed or challenge ideas presented on the show, they remain committed to creating a space where thoughtful conversation matters more than winning an argument. That’s what “unity, not uniformity” has always meant. Looking ahead, listeners can expect:More community leadersMore regional voicesYouth-led episodesConversations featuring differing perspectivesExpanded coverage across East Metro AtlantaContinued commitment to respectful dialogueThe format may evolve. The guests may change. The geography may expand. But the mission remains exactly the same. Because communities become stronger when people choose conversation over caricature and curiosity over conflict. The next chapter of The Town Square Podcast is just getting started. Visit www.TheTownSquarePodcast.com for all of the episodes, blog posts, advertising opportunities, and so much more.

The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas &amp; What’s AheadSometimes the best conversations happen when there’s no guest sitting across the table.After several weeks of candidate interviews and election coverage, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall return for a wide-ranging conversation about life, community, travel, family, and the future of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast.The episode begins with reflection on the recent Candidate Conversation series, which gave local voters an opportunity to hear directly from individuals seeking public office. Rather than debates or rapid-fire questions, the goal was simple: create space for honest conversation and help listeners better understand the people behind the campaigns.For Trey and Gabriel, that approach perfectly reflects the mission of the podcast—creating unity without demanding uniformity.Life Beyond the PodcastA lot has happened during the brief break between episodes.Trey shares the excitement of watching his twin daughters graduate from Eastside High School and begin the next chapter at the University of Georgia. Orientation brought excitement, information overload, and the realization that college arrives much faster than parents expect.Gabriel talks about preparing for a much-needed vacation after balancing journalism, ministry, and community leadership. For the first time in more than two decades, he’ll be able to completely unplug from both professions simultaneously—a rare opportunity that he’s determined to embrace.The conversation also pauses to acknowledge the passing of longtime Richmond County Board of Education member Walter Eubanks, serving as a reminder that life is both precious and unpredictable.Why Travel Changes PerspectiveOne of the highlights of the episode is Trey’s reflection on a family trip through England and Scotland.Instead of focusing on major tourist attractions, the family intentionally spent time in small fishing villages, rural countryside, and the Scottish Highlands. From driving narrow roads lined with towering hedges to exploring tiny island communities known for producing world-famous Scotch whisky, the experience offered something deeper than sightseeing.It offered perspective.As beautiful as the United Kingdom was, Trey admits that returning home reminded him how much he appreciates living in America.The conversation isn’t about comparing nations or claiming one is better than another. Instead, it’s about recognizing that travel often deepens appreciation for home while broadening appreciation for other cultures.Gabriel echoes that sentiment through his own international experiences, noting that seeing the world often strengthens gratitude for the place we call home.America Through Someone Else’s EyesThe discussion naturally shifts to the FIFA World Cup currently being hosted across North America.One of the unexpected joys has been watching international visitors experience American culture for the first time.Social media has been filled with visitors discovering everything from Buc-ee’s to Atlanta lemon pepper wings—and, perhaps most importantly, ranch dressing.It’s a lighthearted reminder that every culture has something unique to offer, and sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable.Those moments also reinforce one of the recurring themes of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast: genuine relationships begin with curiosity rather than assumptions.The Future of The Town Square PodcastPerhaps the biggest announcement of the episode is where the podcast is headed next.After more than ninety episodes, Trey and Gabriel believe it’s time to expand—not by changing who they are, but by growing what they do.One exciting addition will feature young people taking over the microphones.Inspired by conversations with students through the TaylorMade Foundation and other community partnerships, the hosts plan to dedicate future episodes to student voices, allowing the next generation to lead conversations that matter to them.It’s an opportunity to showcase future journalists, communicators, civic leaders, and storytellers while giving listeners a fresh perspective on community issues.The hosts are equally excited about another new format: bringing together guests who approach important topics from different viewpoints.Not debates.Not arguments.Simply conversations.The goal is to model respectful dialogue between people who may disagree while helping listeners understand the humanity behind different perspectives.As Trey says, people often discover they agree on far more than they initially assumed.Expanding Beyond Newton CountyThe Town Square has always been rooted in Newton County, but the conversation is beginning to grow.Future episodes may feature leaders from neighboring communities including Jasper, Rockdale, Walton, Morgan, and Henry counties.Each community faces unique opportunities and challenges, yet many are navigating similar questions about growth, education, development, public safety, and community identity.Learning from one another benefits everyone.A Podcast That Continues to GrowAs the hosts reflect on more than ninety episodes together, they’re grateful for the audience that has made the journey possible.Whether listeners agree with every opinion expressed or challenge ideas presented on the show, they remain committed to creating a space where thoughtful conversation matters more than winning an argument.That’s what “unity, not uniformity” has always meant.Looking ahead, listeners can expect:<ul><li>More community leaders</li><li>More regional voices</li><li>Youth-led episodes</li><li>Conversations featuring differing perspectives</li><li>Expanded coverage across East Metro Atlanta</li><li>Continued commitment to respectful dialogue</li></ul>The format may evolve.The guests may change.The geography may expand.But the mission remains exactly the same.Because communities become stronger when people choose conversation over caricature and curiosity over conflict.The next chapter of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;is just getting started.Visit <a href="https://www.thetownsquarepodcast.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.TheTownSquarePodcast.com</a> for all of the episodes, blog posts, advertising opportunities, and so much more.

The Next Chapter: New Voices, Big Ideas & What’s Ahead | Episode 93

After a full season of Candidate Conversations, The Town Square Podcast is back to regular programming — and Episode 92 brings us right back into the heart of what this show was built to do.This week, Trey Bailey sits down with Detective DJ Seals of the Covington Police Department for a conversation that is equal parts informative, funny, practical, personal, and deeply local.If you’ve been around Covington or Newton County for any amount of time, there’s a good chance you know DJ Seals — or at least you know his voice.Some know him from radio. Some know him from law enforcement. Some know him as the booming, joyful voice announcing Miracle League baseball games. Others know him from his years of community service, public safety work, and willingness to show up wherever he is needed.But in this episode, listeners get a fuller picture of DJ Seals: the broadcaster, the detective, the fraud investigator, the storyteller, the community servant, and the guy who has somehow lived enough interesting chapters to make Trey compare him to “the most interesting man in the world.”DJ, of course, laughed that off.But by the end of the episode, it was pretty clear Trey wasn’t completely wrong.From Radio Voice to Detective SealsThe conversation begins with DJ’s name — literally.DJ stands for Daniel Jonathan, though almost everyone has always called him DJ. That made things especially amusing when he worked in radio, because people naturally assumed “DJ” was his radio name.It wasn’t.It was just his name.DJ talked about his early days in radio, including time at WGFS 1430 and later with Atlanta’s 104.7 The Fish. Trey remembered first connecting with him during his Eastridge Church days, when the church was hosting concert events and The Fish brought out its van and promotional team.That radio background matters because it helps explain part of what makes DJ such a compelling guest. He knows how to tell stories. He knows how to communicate. And now, in his role with the Covington Police Department, he is using those same skills to educate the public about fraud, scams, identity theft, and personal safety.DJ previously served with CPD before stepping away after a serious car accident and later moving into the world of law enforcement software. In that role, he worked with agencies across all 50 states and eight countries, helping teach best practices around real-time crime centers, drone systems, investigations, SWAT support, and technology tools.But recently, a conversation with Chief Brent Fuesting led DJ back to the badge.He had gone to the police department to drop off backpacks his church had prepared for homeless individuals and children who may be present during difficult law enforcement scenes. Those backpacks included small items like fidgets and comfort tools — simple things that can help a child regulate during stressful moments.One conversation with the chief turned into another.About a week later, DJ was back with the Covington Police Department.Fraud, Forgery, Identity Theft — and a Changing WorldDJ now focuses heavily on fraud, forgery, identity theft, and scams.Some of that work is familiar to him from his earlier law enforcement career, but the world has changed dramatically. Identity theft was still a relatively new concept when DJ first worked in this space. Laws were still catching up. Technology was evolving. Investigators often had to do much of the work by hand.Today, the tools are better.Unfortunately, so are the criminals.DJ explained that the core work of investigation is still the same, but the process has changed. Technology gives investigators more ways to track patterns and gather information, but it also gives scammers more ways to deceive, manipulate, and hide.And the scams themselves have evolved.The old stereotype was the “Nigerian prince” email — someone promising gold bars or a giant inheritance in exchange for a fee.DJ said today’s scams are often much more realistic.They look official.They use familiar institutions.They rely on public information.And most importantly, they are built around emotion.Fear and Love: The Two Big HooksOne of the strongest themes from the episode is DJ’s explanation that modern scams are less about greed and more about emotion.The old scams often worked by promising people money.Today’s scams usually work by creating fear or exploiting love.Fear shows up in fake toll notices, fake warrant threats, fake court documents, fake postal service claims, and fake Federal Trade Commission threats. A person receives a text, email, or phone call saying they owe money, missed court, have a warrant, or need to pay immediately to avoid arrest.Love shows up in relationship scams.DJ said relationship fraud is one of the biggest things he is seeing right now.These scams often begin on social media. A stranger comments on a photo, sends a message, finds a point of connection, and slowly builds trust. It is what DJ described as a “long con.” The scammer may spend weeks or months building what feels like a real relationship.Eventually, the request comes.Money for a car repair.Money for a child.Money for travel.Money for a medical issue.And once money starts moving, the losses can become devastating.DJ shared that his own aunt lost $180,000 in a relationship scam before the family knew what had happened. DJ confirmed that these stories are not rare, and they are heartbreaking because the victim often believes the relationship is real.That makes the investigator’s job even harder.DJ said one of the most difficult parts is not simply investigating the crime. It is helping the victim understand that they have been deceived.There is grief.There is shame.There is embarrassment.And DJ was clear: victims should not carry that shame.These scammers are professionals. This is what they do. They are trained, organized, and skilled at manipulation.The Rise of Bitcoin ScamsAnother major warning from DJ: be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to pay through a Bitcoin ATM.Fake warrant scams, relationship scams, and other fraud schemes increasingly route victims toward Bitcoin machines. The scammer tells the victim to deposit thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM to clear a warrant, pay a fee, help a loved one, or resolve an urgent problem.DJ explained why this is so dangerous.Traditional financial institutions can be subpoenaed. Banks have fraud departments. Investigators can track certain transactions.Bitcoin is different.It is largely unregulated, often international, and can be extremely difficult to recover once money is sent.DJ described Bitcoin as the “Wild West.”His advice was blunt: if someone is asking you to put money into a Bitcoin machine, that is almost certainly a scam.Fake Warrants, Toll Texts, Funeral Scams, and MoreDJ walked through several common scams circulating right now.One is the fake toll text. Many people have received messages claiming they owe money for unpaid tolls. Those scams became so widespread that scammers eventually shifted into other tactics.One newer version is the fake warrant scam.A person receives a document or message saying there is a warrant for their arrest because they missed court. The document may include real-sounding language, fake seals, judge names, county references, or courthouse addresses.But DJ said there are usually clues.The county may not match.The judge may be from the wrong jurisdiction.The address may be wrong.The language may sound official, but the details do not hold together.The problem is that panic makes people miss those clues.DJ told the story of a friend who was standing at a gas station, ready to put thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin machine because he believed he had a warrant. DJ told him to walk away, calm down, sit in his truck, and actually read the document.Once the panic faded, the errors were obvious.Another emerging scam DJ mentioned is the funeral scam.Scammers read obituaries, gather family information, identify the funeral home, and call grieving relatives pretending to be from the funeral home. They may claim that insurance did not cover a final bill and ask for a credit card payment.It is cruel.It is targeted.And it works because people are grieving and vulnerable.Social Media: Would You Do This in Person?DJ offered a simple rule that may be the most memorable piece of advice from the episode:Would you do this in person?Would you give a stranger on the Covington Square $5,000 because they said their car broke down?Would you walk up to someone you have never met and tell them about your grandkids, your dog, your family, your church, your schedule, and your personal life?Most people would say no.But online, the barrier feels lower.There is a screen between people. There is a sense of safety. A person can seem kind, familiar, interested, and trustworthy.DJ said that is exactly what scammers exploit.His advice is not to stop talking to people altogether. It is to keep your guard up. Ask questions. Verify details. Do not assume a person is who they claim to be simply because they know a few facts about you.And if someone begins asking for money, gift cards, Bitcoin, favors, or urgent help — slow down.Ask questions.Call someone you trust.Call DJ.Call law enforcement.Do not let urgency make the decision for you.Protecting Older Adults and Vulnerable Loved OnesOne of the most practical parts of the conversation centered on family members and caregivers.DJ said he currently has cases where the victim did not initiate the report. A caregiver or relative noticed something odd and reached out because they suspected their loved one was being scammed.That matters.If you have an older parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, or friend who spends time on social media, pay attention.Not in a controlling way.In a caring way.If you see unfamiliar people commenting frequently or appearing in their online circle, ask gentle questions.Who is that?How do you know them?Where are they from?Have they asked you for anything?DJ said those questions can help identify a scam before money is lost.He also emphasized that many victims are not careless or foolish. Many are lonely, trusting, grieving, or simply unaware of how sophisticated these scams have become.And some are very tech savvy.This can happen to anyone.Fraud Prevention Classes for the CommunityOne of the most encouraging parts of the episode is that DJ is not just investigating these crimes after they happen.He wants to prevent them.DJ is offering free fraud prevention conversations for schools, churches, civic organizations, retirement communities, and other local groups. These sessions are designed to be practical and conversational. He wants people to bring questions, share concerns, and learn how to spot scams before they become victims.He made it clear that these are not credit repair classes or technical financial seminars.They are awareness conversations.What scams are happening right now?What should people look for?Who should they call?What are the red flags?How do families protect vulnerable loved ones?DJ’s goal is simple: if one person recognizes a scam before sending money, it is worth it.To schedule a fraud prevention conversation with Detective DJ Seals:Phone: 770-385-2127Email: daniel.seals@covingtonpolice.comThe Team Behind the BadgeDJ also made a point to emphasize that this work is not done alone.He talked about the detectives and officers at CPD who each bring different strengths to the table. Some are especially strong with social media. Some are strong with research. Some specialize in other investigative tools or processes.When a case gets complicated, the team works together.DJ said he has never had a problem asking for help, and he sees that as a strength.That spirit of teamwork matters because fraud cases can involve multiple victims, stolen identities, out-of-state actors, international phone numbers, fake accounts, financial records, and larger criminal networks.Sometimes a small local case reveals a much larger machine.DJ said when investigators can identify patterns and connect cases, they may be able to bring in larger agencies and pursue bigger targets.The goal is not just to catch the small cog.The goal is to expose the larger network.The Joy of Miracle League BaseballAfter a heavy conversation about scams, fraud, fear, and vulnerability, the episode ends on a joyful note.For many in Newton County, DJ Seals is the voice of Miracle League baseball.He has been announcing games for more than 11 years, and it is obvious that the Miracle League holds a special place in his heart.DJ told the story of how his wife first heard that the league needed help with announcing. He showed up, sat down, and quickly realized there was a lot of space between names being called.So he started calling the games like a real baseball broadcast.A kid hit the ball, and DJ launched into full announcer mode.The crowd loved it.The players loved it.And he has been doing it ever since.What began with four teams of six players has grown dramatically. DJ said the most recent season included 16 teams and 195 players.He described Miracle League as a place of pure joy — so much so that he joked it deserves the title “the happiest place on earth.”For DJ, it is also personally restorative.After a difficult day, he can put on his Miracle League jersey, head to the field, hear the first song, and feel the weight of the day lift.That part of the conversation captures something important about DJ Seals.Yes, he is a detective.Yes, he investigates serious crimes.Yes, he works fraud cases that involve real pain and real victims.But he is also deeply connected to the community in ways that go beyond the badge.He serves.He shows up.He brings joy.And he uses his voice — literally and figuratively — to make Newton County a better place.Final ThoughtsEpisode 92 is a reminder of why The Town Square Podcast exists.This is not just a show about politics, elections, or public issues. It is a show about people who are working in different corners of the community to make life better, safer, stronger, and more connected.Detective DJ Seals brings a rare combination of humor, experience, compassion, technical knowledge, and old-fashioned community care.He understands the scams.He understands the victims.He understands the systems.And he understands that education may be one of the most powerful tools we have.Whether you are a parent, caregiver, church leader, business owner, older adult, or just someone who has ever received a suspicious text message, this episode is worth your time.Because the scams are changing.The criminals are getting better.And the best defense is a community that knows what to look for. Episode Sponsors:All AirThis episode is also sponsored by All Air, serving Covington and the greater Atlanta area with heating, cooling, maintenance, repairs, full system installations, free replacement estimates, free second opinions, and flexible financing options. All Air offers 10% off for military veterans and senior citizens. Mention The Town Square Podcast for $25 off your next repair service.Call 770-761-9914 or visit <a href="https://www.allairservices.com/" rel="nofollow">allairservices.com</a>. The Appalachia Group InsuranceThis episode of The Town Square Podcast is sponsored by The Appalachia Group Insurance. Bobby Stevens and his partner Matt McLean are licensed in Georgia and Tennessee and bring more than 36 years of combined insurance experience. As an independent agency, they are not limited to one carrier, which allows them to shop for coverage that fits the needs of each client.They offer auto, home, life, commercial, and special event insurance coverage.Contact: Bobby StevensPhone: 770-728-1880Email: bobby@appgroupins.com

After a full season of Candidate Conversations, The Town Square Podcast is back to regular programming — and Episode 92 brings us right back into the heart of what this show was built to do. This week, Trey Bailey sits down with Detective DJ Seals of the Covington Police Department for a conversation that is equal parts informative, funny, practical, personal, and deeply local. If you’ve been around Covington or Newton County for any amount of time, there’s a good chance you know DJ Seals — or at least you know his voice. Some know him from radio. Some know him from law enforcement. Some know him as the booming, joyful voice announcing Miracle League baseball games. Others know him from his years of community service, public safety work, and willingness to show up wherever he is needed. But in this episode, listeners get a fuller picture of DJ Seals: the broadcaster, the detective, the fraud investigator, the storyteller, the community servant, and the guy who has somehow lived enough interesting chapters to make Trey compare him to “the most interesting man in the world.” DJ, of course, laughed that off. But by the end of the episode, it was pretty clear Trey wasn’t completely wrong. From Radio Voice to Detective Seals The conversation begins with DJ’s name — literally. DJ stands for Daniel Jonathan, though almost everyone has always called him DJ. That made things especially amusing when he worked in radio, because people naturally assumed “DJ” was his radio name. It wasn’t. It was just his name. DJ talked about his early days in radio, including time at WGFS 1430 and later with Atlanta’s 104.7 The Fish. Trey remembered first connecting with him during his Eastridge Church days, when the church was hosting concert events and The Fish brought out its van and promotional team. That radio background matters because it helps explain part of what makes DJ such a compelling guest. He knows how to tell stories. He knows how to communicate. And now, in his role with the Covington Police Department, he is using those same skills to educate the public about fraud, scams, identity theft, and personal safety. DJ previously served with CPD before stepping away after a serious car accident and later moving into the world of law enforcement software. In that role, he worked with agencies across all 50 states and eight countries, helping teach best practices around real-time crime centers, drone systems, investigations, SWAT support, and technology tools. But recently, a conversation with Chief Brent Fuesting led DJ back to the badge. He had gone to the police department to drop off backpacks his church had prepared for homeless individuals and children who may be present during difficult law enforcement scenes. Those backpacks included small items like fidgets and comfort tools — simple things that can help a child regulate during stressful moments. One conversation with the chief turned into another. About a week later, DJ was back with the Covington Police Department. Fraud, Forgery, Identity Theft — and a Changing World DJ now focuses heavily on fraud, forgery, identity theft, and scams. Some of that work is familiar to him from his earlier law enforcement career, but the world has changed dramatically. Identity theft was still a relatively new concept when DJ first worked in this space. Laws were still catching up. Technology was evolving. Investigators often had to do much of the work by hand. Today, the tools are better. Unfortunately, so are the criminals. DJ explained that the core work of investigation is still the same, but the process has changed. Technology gives investigators more ways to track patterns and gather information, but it also gives scammers more ways to deceive, manipulate, and hide. And the scams themselves have evolved. The old stereotype was the “Nigerian prince” email — someone promising gold bars or a giant inheritance in exchange for a fee. DJ said today’s scams are often much more realistic. They look official. They use familiar institutions. They rely on public information. And most importantly, they are built around emotion. Fear and Love: The Two Big Hooks One of the strongest themes from the episode is DJ’s explanation that modern scams are less about greed and more about emotion. The old scams often worked by promising people money. Today’s scams usually work by creating fear or exploiting love. Fear shows up in fake toll notices, fake warrant threats, fake court documents, fake postal service claims, and fake Federal Trade Commission threats. A person receives a text, email, or phone call saying they owe money, missed court, have a warrant, or need to pay immediately to avoid arrest. Love shows up in relationship scams. DJ said relationship fraud is one of the biggest things he is seeing right now. These scams often begin on social media. A stranger comments on a photo, sends a message, finds a point of connection, and slowly builds trust. It is what DJ described as a “long con.” The scammer may spend weeks or months building what feels like a real relationship. Eventually, the request comes. Money for a car repair. Money for a child. Money for travel. Money for a medical issue. And once money starts moving, the losses can become devastating. DJ shared that his own aunt lost $180,000 in a relationship scam before the family knew what had happened. DJ confirmed that these stories are not rare, and they are heartbreaking because the victim often believes the relationship is real. That makes the investigator’s job even harder. DJ said one of the most difficult parts is not simply investigating the crime. It is helping the victim understand that they have been deceived. There is grief. There is shame. There is embarrassment. And DJ was clear: victims should not carry that shame. These scammers are professionals. This is what they do. They are trained, organized, and skilled at manipulation. The Rise of Bitcoin Scams Another major warning from DJ: be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to pay through a Bitcoin ATM. Fake warrant scams, relationship scams, and other fraud schemes increasingly route victims toward Bitcoin machines. The scammer tells the victim to deposit thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM to clear a warrant, pay a fee, help a loved one, or resolve an urgent problem. DJ explained why this is so dangerous. Traditional financial institutions can be subpoenaed. Banks have fraud departments. Investigators can track certain transactions. Bitcoin is different. It is largely unregulated, often international, and can be extremely difficult to recover once money is sent. DJ described Bitcoin as the “Wild West.” His advice was blunt: if someone is asking you to put money into a Bitcoin machine, that is almost certainly a scam. Fake Warrants, Toll Texts, Funeral Scams, and More DJ walked through several common scams circulating right now. One is the fake toll text. Many people have received messages claiming they owe money for unpaid tolls. Those scams became so widespread that scammers eventually shifted into other tactics. One newer version is the fake warrant scam. A person receives a document or message saying there is a warrant for their arrest because they missed court. The document may include real-sounding language, fake seals, judge names, county references, or courthouse addresses. But DJ said there are usually clues. The county may not match. The judge may be from the wrong jurisdiction. The address may be wrong. The language may sound official, but the details do not hold together. The problem is that panic makes people miss those clues. DJ told the story of a friend who was standing at a gas station, ready to put thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin machine because he believed he had a warrant. DJ told him to walk away, calm down, sit in his truck, and actually read the document. Once the panic faded, the errors were obvious. Another emerging scam DJ mentioned is the funeral scam. Scammers read obituaries, gather family information, identify the funeral home, and call grieving relatives pretending to be from the funeral home. They may claim that insurance did not cover a final bill and ask for a credit card payment. It is cruel. It is targeted. And it works because people are grieving and vulnerable. Social Media: Would You Do This in Person? DJ offered a simple rule that may be the most memorable piece of advice from the episode: Would you do this in person? Would you give a stranger on the Covington Square $5,000 because they said their car broke down? Would you walk up to someone you have never met and tell them about your grandkids, your dog, your family, your church, your schedule, and your personal life? Most people would say no. But online, the barrier feels lower. There is a screen between people. There is a sense of safety. A person can seem kind, familiar, interested, and trustworthy. DJ said that is exactly what scammers exploit. His advice is not to stop talking to people altogether. It is to keep your guard up. Ask questions. Verify details. Do not assume a person is who they claim to be simply because they know a few facts about you. And if someone begins asking for money, gift cards, Bitcoin, favors, or urgent help — slow down. Ask questions. Call someone you trust. Call DJ. Call law enforcement. Do not let urgency make the decision for you. Protecting Older Adults and Vulnerable Loved Ones One of the most practical parts of the conversation centered on family members and caregivers. DJ said he currently has cases where the victim did not initiate the report. A caregiver or relative noticed something odd and reached out because they suspected their loved one was being scammed. That matters. If you have an older parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, or friend who spends time on social media, pay attention. Not in a controlling way. In a caring way. If you see unfamiliar people commenting frequently or appearing in their online circle, ask gentle questions. Who is that? How do you know them? Where are they from? Have they asked you for anything? DJ said those questions can help identify a scam before money is lost. He also emphasized that many victims are not careless or foolish. Many are lonely, trusting, grieving, or simply unaware of how sophisticated these scams have become. And some are very tech savvy. This can happen to anyone. Fraud Prevention Classes for the Community One of the most encouraging parts of the episode is that DJ is not just investigating these crimes after they happen. He wants to prevent them. DJ is offering free fraud prevention conversations for schools, churches, civic organizations, retirement communities, and other local groups. These sessions are designed to be practical and conversational. He wants people to bring questions, share concerns, and learn how to spot scams before they become victims. He made it clear that these are not credit repair classes or technical financial seminars. They are awareness conversations. What scams are happening right now? What should people look for? Who should they call? What are the red flags? How do families protect vulnerable loved ones? DJ’s goal is simple: if one person recognizes a scam before sending money, it is worth it. To schedule a fraud prevention conversation with Detective DJ Seals: Phone: 770-385-2127 Email: daniel.seals@covingtonpolice.com The Team Behind the Badge DJ also made a point to emphasize that this work is not done alone. He talked about the detectives and officers at CPD who each bring different strengths to the table. Some are especially strong with social media. Some are strong with research. Some specialize in other investigative tools or processes. When a case gets complicated, the team works together. DJ said he has never had a problem asking for help, and he sees that as a strength. That spirit of teamwork matters because fraud cases can involve multiple victims, stolen identities, out-of-state actors, international phone numbers, fake accounts, financial records, and larger criminal networks. Sometimes a small local case reveals a much larger machine. DJ said when investigators can identify patterns and connect cases, they may be able to bring in larger agencies and pursue bigger targets. The goal is not just to catch the small cog. The goal is to expose the larger network. The Joy of Miracle League Baseball After a heavy conversation about scams, fraud, fear, and vulnerability, the episode ends on a joyful note. For many in Newton County, DJ Seals is the voice of Miracle League baseball. He has been announcing games for more than 11 years, and it is obvious that the Miracle League holds a special place in his heart. DJ told the story of how his wife first heard that the league needed help with announcing. He showed up, sat down, and quickly realized there was a lot of space between names being called. So he started calling the games like a real baseball broadcast. A kid hit the ball, and DJ launched into full announcer mode. The crowd loved it. The players loved it. And he has been doing it ever since. What began with four teams of six players has grown dramatically. DJ said the most recent season included 16 teams and 195 players. He described Miracle League as a place of pure joy — so much so that he joked it deserves the title “the happiest place on earth.” For DJ, it is also personally restorative. After a difficult day, he can put on his Miracle League jersey, head to the field, hear the first song, and feel the weight of the day lift. That part of the conversation captures something important about DJ Seals. Yes, he is a detective. Yes, he investigates serious crimes. Yes, he works fraud cases that involve real pain and real victims. But he is also deeply connected to the community in ways that go beyond the badge. He serves. He shows up. He brings joy. And he uses his voice — literally and figuratively — to make Newton County a better place. Final Thoughts Episode 92 is a reminder of why The Town Square Podcast exists. This is not just a show about politics, elections, or public issues. It is a show about people who are working in different corners of the community to make life better, safer, stronger, and more connected. Detective DJ Seals brings a rare combination of humor, experience, compassion, technical knowledge, and old-fashioned community care. He understands the scams. He understands the victims. He understands the systems. And he understands that education may be one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, church leader, business owner, older adult, or just someone who has ever received a suspicious text message, this episode is worth your time. Because the scams are changing. The criminals are getting better. And the best defense is a community that knows what to look for. Episode Sponsors: All Air This episode is also sponsored by All Air, serving Covington and the greater Atlanta area with heating, cooling, maintenance, repairs, full system installations, free replacement estimates, free second opinions, and flexible financing options. All Air offers 10% off for military veterans and senior citizens. Mention The Town Square Podcast for $25 off your next repair service. Call 770-761-9914 or visit allairservices.com. The Appalachia Group Insurance This episode of The Town Square Podcast is sponsored by The Appalachia Group Insurance. Bobby Stevens and his partner Matt McLean are licensed in Georgia and Tennessee and bring more than 36 years of combined insurance experience. As an independent agency, they are not limited to one carrier, which allows them to shop for coverage that fits the needs of each client. They offer auto, home, life, commercial, and special event insurance coverage. Contact: Bobby Stevens Phone: 770-728-1880 Email: bobby@appgroupins.com

After a full season of Candidate Conversations,&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;is back to regular programming — and Episode 92 brings us right back into the heart of what this show was built to do.This week, Trey Bailey sits down with Detective DJ Seals of the Covington Police Department for a conversation that is equal parts informative, funny, practical, personal, and deeply local.If you’ve been around Covington or Newton County for any amount of time, there’s a good chance you know DJ Seals — or at least you know his voice.Some know him from radio. Some know him from law enforcement. Some know him as the booming, joyful voice announcing Miracle League baseball games. Others know him from his years of community service, public safety work, and willingness to show up wherever he is needed.But in this episode, listeners get a fuller picture of DJ Seals: the broadcaster, the detective, the fraud investigator, the storyteller, the community servant, and the guy who has somehow lived enough interesting chapters to make Trey compare him to “the most interesting man in the world.”DJ, of course, laughed that off.But by the end of the episode, it was pretty clear Trey wasn’t completely wrong.From Radio Voice to Detective SealsThe conversation begins with DJ’s name — literally.DJ stands for Daniel Jonathan, though almost everyone has always called him DJ. That made things especially amusing when he worked in radio, because people naturally assumed “DJ” was his radio name.It wasn’t.It was just his name.DJ talked about his early days in radio, including time at WGFS 1430 and later with Atlanta’s 104.7 The Fish. Trey remembered first connecting with him during his Eastridge Church days, when the church was hosting concert events and The Fish brought out its van and promotional team.That radio background matters because it helps explain part of what makes DJ such a compelling guest. He knows how to tell stories. He knows how to communicate. And now, in his role with the Covington Police Department, he is using those same skills to educate the public about fraud, scams, identity theft, and personal safety.DJ previously served with CPD before stepping away after a serious car accident and later moving into the world of law enforcement software. In that role, he worked with agencies across all 50 states and eight countries, helping teach best practices around real-time crime centers, drone systems, investigations, SWAT support, and technology tools.But recently, a conversation with Chief Brent Fuesting led DJ back to the badge.He had gone to the police department to drop off backpacks his church had prepared for homeless individuals and children who may be present during difficult law enforcement scenes. Those backpacks included small items like fidgets and comfort tools — simple things that can help a child regulate during stressful moments.One conversation with the chief turned into another.About a week later, DJ was back with the Covington Police Department.Fraud, Forgery, Identity Theft — and a Changing WorldDJ now focuses heavily on fraud, forgery, identity theft, and scams.Some of that work is familiar to him from his earlier law enforcement career, but the world has changed dramatically. Identity theft was still a relatively new concept when DJ first worked in this space. Laws were still catching up. Technology was evolving. Investigators often had to do much of the work by hand.Today, the tools are better.Unfortunately, so are the criminals.DJ explained that the core work of investigation is still the same, but the process has changed. Technology gives investigators more ways to track patterns and gather information, but it also gives scammers more ways to deceive, manipulate, and hide.And the scams themselves have evolved.The old stereotype was the “Nigerian prince” email — someone promising gold bars or a giant inheritance in exchange for a fee.DJ said today’s scams are often much more realistic.They look official.They use familiar institutions.They rely on public information.And most importantly, they are built around emotion.Fear and Love: The Two Big HooksOne of the strongest themes from the episode is DJ’s explanation that modern scams are less about greed and more about emotion.The old scams often worked by promising people money.Today’s scams usually work by creating fear or exploiting love.Fear shows up in fake toll notices, fake warrant threats, fake court documents, fake postal service claims, and fake Federal Trade Commission threats. A person receives a text, email, or phone call saying they owe money, missed court, have a warrant, or need to pay immediately to avoid arrest.Love shows up in relationship scams.DJ said relationship fraud is one of the biggest things he is seeing right now.These scams often begin on social media. A stranger comments on a photo, sends a message, finds a point of connection, and slowly builds trust. It is what DJ described as a “long con.” The scammer may spend weeks or months building what feels like a real relationship.Eventually, the request comes.Money for a car repair.Money for a child.Money for travel.Money for a medical issue.And once money starts moving, the losses can become devastating.DJ shared that his own aunt lost $180,000 in a relationship scam before the family knew what had happened. DJ confirmed that these stories are not rare, and they are heartbreaking because the victim often believes the relationship is real.That makes the investigator’s job even harder.DJ said one of the most difficult parts is not simply investigating the crime. It is helping the victim understand that they have been deceived.There is grief.There is shame.There is embarrassment.And DJ was clear: victims should not carry that shame.These scammers are professionals. This is what they do. They are trained, organized, and skilled at manipulation.The Rise of Bitcoin ScamsAnother major warning from DJ: be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to pay through a Bitcoin ATM.Fake warrant scams, relationship scams, and other fraud schemes increasingly route victims toward Bitcoin machines. The scammer tells the victim to deposit thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM to clear a warrant, pay a fee, help a loved one, or resolve an urgent problem.DJ explained why this is so dangerous.Traditional financial institutions can be subpoenaed. Banks have fraud departments. Investigators can track certain transactions.Bitcoin is different.It is largely unregulated, often international, and can be extremely difficult to recover once money is sent.DJ described Bitcoin as the “Wild West.”His advice was blunt: if someone is asking you to put money into a Bitcoin machine, that is almost certainly a scam.Fake Warrants, Toll Texts, Funeral Scams, and MoreDJ walked through several common scams circulating right now.One is the fake toll text. Many people have received messages claiming they owe money for unpaid tolls. Those scams became so widespread that scammers eventually shifted into other tactics.One newer version is the fake warrant scam.A person receives a document or message saying there is a warrant for their arrest because they missed court. The document may include real-sounding language, fake seals, judge names, county references, or courthouse addresses.But DJ said there are usually clues.The county may not match.The judge may be from the wrong jurisdiction.The address may be wrong.The language may sound official, but the details do not hold together.The problem is that panic makes people miss those clues.DJ told the story of a friend who was standing at a gas station, ready to put thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin machine because he believed he had a warrant. DJ told him to walk away, calm down, sit in his truck, and actually read the document.Once the panic faded, the errors were obvious.Another emerging scam DJ mentioned is the funeral scam.Scammers read obituaries, gather family information, identify the funeral home, and call grieving relatives pretending to be from the funeral home. They may claim that insurance did not cover a final bill and ask for a credit card payment.It is cruel.It is targeted.And it works because people are grieving and vulnerable.Social Media: Would You Do This in Person?DJ offered a simple rule that may be the most memorable piece of advice from the episode:Would you do this in person?Would you give a stranger on the Covington Square $5,000 because they said their car broke down?Would you walk up to someone you have never met and tell them about your grandkids, your dog, your family, your church, your schedule, and your personal life?Most people would say no.But online, the barrier feels lower.There is a screen between people. There is a sense of safety. A person can seem kind, familiar, interested, and trustworthy.DJ said that is exactly what scammers exploit.His advice is not to stop talking to people altogether. It is to keep your guard up. Ask questions. Verify details. Do not assume a person is who they claim to be simply because they know a few facts about you.And if someone begins asking for money, gift cards, Bitcoin, favors, or urgent help — slow down.Ask questions.Call someone you trust.Call DJ.Call law enforcement.Do not let urgency make the decision for you.Protecting Older Adults and Vulnerable Loved OnesOne of the most practical parts of the conversation centered on family members and caregivers.DJ said he currently has cases where the victim did not initiate the report. A caregiver or relative noticed something odd and reached out because they suspected their loved one was being scammed.That matters.If you have an older parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, or friend who spends time on social media, pay attention.Not in a controlling way.In a caring way.If you see unfamiliar people commenting frequently or appearing in their online circle, ask gentle questions.Who is that?How do you know them?Where are they from?Have they asked you for anything?DJ said those questions can help identify a scam before money is lost.He also emphasized that many victims are not careless or foolish. Many are lonely, trusting, grieving, or simply unaware of how sophisticated these scams have become.And some are very tech savvy.This can happen to anyone.Fraud Prevention Classes for the CommunityOne of the most encouraging parts of the episode is that DJ is not just investigating these crimes after they happen.He wants to prevent them.DJ is offering free fraud prevention conversations for schools, churches, civic organizations, retirement communities, and other local groups. These sessions are designed to be practical and conversational. He wants people to bring questions, share concerns, and learn how to spot scams before they become victims.He made it clear that these are not credit repair classes or technical financial seminars.They are awareness conversations.What scams are happening right now?What should people look for?Who should they call?What are the red flags?How do families protect vulnerable loved ones?DJ’s goal is simple: if one person recognizes a scam before sending money, it is worth it.To schedule a fraud prevention conversation with Detective DJ Seals:Phone: 770-385-2127Email: daniel.seals@covingtonpolice.comThe Team Behind the BadgeDJ also made a point to emphasize that this work is not done alone.He talked about the detectives and officers at CPD who each bring different strengths to the table. Some are especially strong with social media. Some are strong with research. Some specialize in other investigative tools or processes.When a case gets complicated, the team works together.DJ said he has never had a problem asking for help, and he sees that as a strength.That spirit of teamwork matters because fraud cases can involve multiple victims, stolen identities, out-of-state actors, international phone numbers, fake accounts, financial records, and larger criminal networks.Sometimes a small local case reveals a much larger machine.DJ said when investigators can identify patterns and connect cases, they may be able to bring in larger agencies and pursue bigger targets.The goal is not just to catch the small cog.The goal is to expose the larger network.The Joy of Miracle League BaseballAfter a heavy conversation about scams, fraud, fear, and vulnerability, the episode ends on a joyful note.For many in Newton County, DJ Seals is the voice of Miracle League baseball.He has been announcing games for more than 11 years, and it is obvious that the Miracle League holds a special place in his heart.DJ told the story of how his wife first heard that the league needed help with announcing. He showed up, sat down, and quickly realized there was a lot of space between names being called.So he started calling the games like a real baseball broadcast.A kid hit the ball, and DJ launched into full announcer mode.The crowd loved it.The players loved it.And he has been doing it ever since.What began with four teams of six players has grown dramatically. DJ said the most recent season included 16 teams and 195 players.He described Miracle League as a place of pure joy — so much so that he joked it deserves the title “the happiest place on earth.”For DJ, it is also personally restorative.After a difficult day, he can put on his Miracle League jersey, head to the field, hear the first song, and feel the weight of the day lift.That part of the conversation captures something important about DJ Seals.Yes, he is a detective.Yes, he investigates serious crimes.Yes, he works fraud cases that involve real pain and real victims.But he is also deeply connected to the community in ways that go beyond the badge.He serves.He shows up.He brings joy.And he uses his voice — literally and figuratively — to make Newton County a better place.Final ThoughtsEpisode 92 is a reminder of why&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;exists.This is not just a show about politics, elections, or public issues. It is a show about people who are working in different corners of the community to make life better, safer, stronger, and more connected.Detective DJ Seals brings a rare combination of humor, experience, compassion, technical knowledge, and old-fashioned community care.He understands the scams.He understands the victims.He understands the systems.And he understands that education may be one of the most powerful tools we have.Whether you are a parent, caregiver, church leader, business owner, older adult, or just someone who has ever received a suspicious text message, this episode is worth your time.Because the scams are changing.The criminals are getting better.And the best defense is a community that knows what to look for. Episode Sponsors:All AirThis episode is also sponsored by All Air, serving Covington and the greater Atlanta area with heating, cooling, maintenance, repairs, full system installations, free replacement estimates, free second opinions, and flexible financing options. All Air offers 10% off for military veterans and senior citizens. Mention&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;for $25 off your next repair service.Call&nbsp;770-761-9914&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.allairservices.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">allairservices.com</a>. The Appalachia Group InsuranceThis episode of&nbsp;The Town Square Podcast&nbsp;is sponsored by&nbsp;The Appalachia Group Insurance. Bobby Stevens and his partner Matt McLean are licensed in Georgia and Tennessee and bring more than 36 years of combined insurance experience. As an independent agency, they are not limited to one carrier, which allows them to shop for coverage that fits the needs of each client.They offer auto, home, life, commercial, and special event insurance coverage.Contact:&nbsp;Bobby StevensPhone:&nbsp;770-728-1880Email:&nbsp;bobby@appgroupins.com

DJ Seals: Scams, Second Chances & the Happiest Place on Earth — Episode 92

Why do people rush to the extreme ends of the spectrum when it comes to politics, philosophy, religion? What happened to honest dialogue with one another where we listen to the other person’s point of view and then work to meet in the messy middle? Why do we instead stick our fingers in our ears and run away like a toddler?After Gabriel and Trey introduce themselves, they begin discussing HOW we can have these discussions about controversial topics without demonizing the other person’s views, or even demonizing the other person altogether. They look for ways to make the viewpoints human, to have empathy, and then meet in the middle…not in an effort to create uniformity, rather in an effort to create unity.Welcome to The Town Square Podcast.Topics in this episode:<ul><li>#literacy</li><li>#NewtonEducationFoundation</li><li>Loucy Hay</li><li>Gail Rothman</li><li>#NewtonCountyTomorrow</li><li>#NewtonChamberofCommerce</li><li>Ms. Stickler's class</li><li>#Journalism</li><li>#media</li><li>#CriticalThinnking</li><li>#Ola</li><li>#pastor</li><li>#Rivian</li><li>#HenryCounty</li><li>Harold Cooper</li><li>Shakila Henderson-Baker</li><li>#NewtonCountySchools</li><li>#BOE</li><li>Rob Raynor</li><li>#MaranathaMusic</li><li>#ConfederateMonuments</li><li>#NewtonHighSchool</li><li>#MessyMiddle</li><li>#NIMBY</li><li>#CovingtonNews</li><li>#AugustaGA</li><li>#AndyStanley</li><li>#MacedoniaFamilyChurch</li><li>#JamesPaschallMissionaryBaptistChurch</li><li>#EastridgeChurch</li><li>#NewtonCountyJournal</li><li>#GraceFellowshipChurch</li><li>#CNN</li><li>#MSNBC</li><li>#FoxNews</li><li>#BufordCitySchools</li><li>#BookBus</li><li>#AlcovyHighSchool</li><li>#EastsideHighSchool</li><li>#NewtonHighSchool</li><li>#Journalism</li><li>#pastors</li><li>SladeCurtis</li><li>#YogiWatts</li><li>#KipBell</li><li>#DukeBradley</li><li>#Rocketboy</li><li>#DominosPizza</li><li>#LutherRiceSeminary</li><li>#abortion</li><li>#StantonSprings</li></ul>

Why do people rush to the extreme ends of the spectrum when it comes to politics, philosophy, religion? What happened to honest dialogue with one another where we listen to the other person’s point of view and then work to meet in the messy middle? Why do we instead stick our fingers in our ears and run away like a toddler? After Gabriel and Trey introduce themselves, they begin discussing HOW we can have these discussions about controversial topics without demonizing the other person’s views, or even demonizing the other person altogether. They look for ways to make the viewpoints human, to have empathy, and then meet in the middle…not in an effort to create uniformity, rather in an effort to create unity. Welcome to The Town Square Podcast. Topics in this episode:#literacy#NewtonEducationFoundationLoucy HayGail Rothman#NewtonCountyTomorrow#NewtonChamberofCommerceMs. Stickler's class#Journalism#media#CriticalThinnking#Ola#pastor#Rivian#HenryCountyHarold CooperShakila Henderson-Baker#NewtonCountySchools#BOERob Raynor#MaranathaMusic#ConfederateMonuments#NewtonHighSchool#MessyMiddle#NIMBY#CovingtonNews#AugustaGA#AndyStanley#MacedoniaFamilyChurch#JamesPaschallMissionaryBaptistChurch#EastridgeChurch#NewtonCountyJournal#GraceFellowshipChurch#CNN#MSNBC#FoxNews#BufordCitySchools#BookBus#AlcovyHighSchool#EastsideHighSchool#NewtonHighSchool#Journalism#pastorsSladeCurtis#YogiWatts#KipBell#DukeBradley#Rocketboy#DominosPizza#LutherRiceSeminary#abortion#StantonSprings

Introduction & Reviving Dialogue - Episode 1

Not just another podcast, but a place to meet in the messy middle and have difficult discussions with transparency and diplomacy where the outcome is unity, not uniformity.The primary topics will be the local interests of Newton County, Georgia residents and those in the surrounding community.

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Not just another podcast, but a place to meet in the messy middle and have difficult discussions with transparency and diplomacy where the outcome is unity, not uniformity. The primary topics will be the local interests of Newton County, Georgia residents and those in the surrounding community.

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