In This Episode

In this episode, we explore what it means to preserve, restore, and create a place to call home in Macon. From protecting the historic architecture that gives the city its character to helping families build stability through homeownership, Historic Macon Foundation and Macon-Milledgeville Regional Habitat for Humanity are strengthening neighborhoods while ensuring Macon's sense of place continues for generations to come.

Featured Guest: Emily Hopkins

Executive Director, Historic Macon Foundation

Topics include:

• Macon's longstanding commitment to historic preservation
• The history and mission of Historic Macon Foundation
• How preservation and historic tax credits contribute to economic development
• Revitalizing neighborhoods while protecting affordability and homeownership
• Resources available to historic homeowners, including Historic Macon's Tool Library
• The role of preservation in tourism and Macon's distinctive sense of place
• Celebrating 50 years of the Historic Macon Flea Market
• Honoring Macon's past while carrying its stories forward for new generations

Featured Guest: Ivey Hall

Executive Director, Macon-Milledgeville Regional Habitat for Humanity

Topics include:

• Celebrating 40 years of Habitat for Humanity in the Macon area
• The organization's expansion into a regional Macon-Milledgeville Habitat affiliate
• Helping families achieve safe, stable, and affordable homeownership
• How Habitat homeowners invest in and help build their own homes
• Breaking misconceptions about Habitat for Humanity and homeownership
• The Habitat ReStore as a resource for affordable furniture, appliances, and building materials
• Supporting homeowners throughout their long-term homeownership journey
• How stable housing can create a legacy that carries from one generation to the next

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Macon's Preservation and Housing Initiatives
02:06 The History and Mission of Historic Macon Foundation
03:58 Emily Hopkins on Macon's Architectural Heritage
05:57 Economic Impact of Preservation and Tax Credits
07:54 Habitat for Humanity's Role in Middle Georgia
09:56 Homeowner Stories and Community Impact
11:59 Restoring and Reusing Historic Homes
13:58 The Future of Preservation and Housing in Macon
16:07 Supporting Local Organizations and Resources
18:13 Music and Cultural Identity in Macon
20:00 Closing Remarks and Support Opportunities

Featured Music

• "Southern Child" — Blackberry Smoke
• "Home" — Dolly Parton

Connect

Historic Macon Foundation - https://www.historicmacon.org/
Macon-Milledgeville Regional Habitat for Humanity - https://www.maconhabitat.org/
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

In This Episode

This episode features in-depth conversations with Lisa Lemon of the Ocmulgee Mounds Association and Scott Mitchell of Macon Pride, exploring the cultural, historical, and community significance of local initiatives and indigenous heritage in Macon. Discover how these organizations are fostering inclusivity, education, and preservation throughout the year.

Featured Guest:

Lisa Lemon, Ocmulgee Mounds Association

Topics include:

• The history and significance of Ocmulgee Mounds and efforts to make it a national park
• Partnerships between the Ocmulgee Mounds Association and park rangers for education and preservation
• The role of indigenous storytelling and cultural programming in community engagement

Featured Guest:

Scott Mitchell, Macon Pride

Topics include:

• The evolution of Macon Pride from a one-day event to a year-round organization
• The importance of authentic representation and collaboration with the Muscogee Nation
• How local organizations support LGBTQ+ youth and foster safe spaces
• Community involvement opportunities and volunteer programs at local festivals
• The impact of cultural tourism on Macon's economy and identity
• The role of music and art in expressing community pride

Sound Bites
"We created a safe space for people who hadn't had one."
"What have you done today to make you feel proud?"

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Macon Fall Festivals and Key Guests
02:00 The Significance of Ukmulgi Mounds and Its Supporters
03:50 Partnerships for Preservation and Education at the Park
04:55 Cultural Programming and Indigenous Storytelling
06:58 The Role of the Muscogee Nation in the Park's Revival
08:56 Community Engagement and Support Opportunities
10:47 The Future of Ukmulgi Mounds and Cultural Tourism
13:06 The Origins and Growth of Macon Pride
14:53 Community Impact and Youth Engagement in Pride
16:53 Supporting LGBTQ+ Communities Year-Round
19:04 Music, Pride, and Personal Stories of Connection
21:02 How Local Businesses and Allies Support Pride
23:16 Closing Remarks and Call to Support Local Organizations

Featured Music

• "Proud" — Heather Small
• "Best Days of My Life" — American Authors

Connect

Ocmulgee Mounds Association - https://www.ocmulgeemounds.org/
Macon Pride - https://www.maconpride.org/
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

In This Episode

In this episode, we’re getting outside and exploring how two Macon organizations are helping people move, connect, and experience their community in new ways. From the explosive growth of pickleball to creating safer streets for biking and walking, Macon Pickleball and Bike Walk Macon are improving quality of life while building stronger connections between people and place.

Featured Guest: John "JR" Roberts

Macon Pickleball

Topics include:

• Why pickleball has become one of America's fastest-growing sports
• The physical and social benefits that make the sport accessible to nearly everyone
• How Macon's pickleball community grew from local courts to a nationally recognized destination
• Rhythm & Rally and Macon's emergence as a major pickleball tournament destination
• How pickleball tournaments generate visitation and economic impact for Macon
• Ways newcomers can get involved with Macon Pickleball
• The annual Pinkest Pickleball Party on the Planet

Featured Guest: Kaylee Pruitt

Executive Director, Bike Walk Macon

Topics include:

• Bike Walk Macon's mission to make getting around without a car safer and more accessible
• Helping adults rediscover biking and become comfortable riding in an urban environment
• The importance of safe transportation options for Macon residents
• Macon Bike Party and opportunities for beginner and experienced cyclists
• Ten years of Open Streets Macon and transforming roadways into community spaces
• Connecting neighborhoods through biking, walking, rolling, and public transit
• Macon's expanding bike infrastructure and creative traffic-calming projects
• Big Bike Ride, Streets for All Fest, and Macon Bike Walk Month
• Advocating for permanent change and safer streets for everyone

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest overview
01:33 What is pickleball and why is it popular?
03:34 Common misconceptions about pickleball
04:02 History and growth of pickleball in Macon
05:27 Social benefits and community impact of pickleball
07:09 Economic benefits of hosting pickleball tournaments
08:41 Humor and community spirit in pickleball
09:52 Getting involved with Making Pickleball
11:14 Music and culture in community activities
12:46 Introduction to Bike Walk Macon
14:00 The mission and growth of Bike Walk Macon
15:04 Addressing pedestrian and cyclist safety in Macon
16:01 Open streets initiative and community connection
17:55 How to get involved with Bike Walk Macon
21:12 Advocacy, future goals, and community impact
22:19 Support and membership opportunities
23:09 Closing remarks and episode wrap-up

Featured Music

• "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" — Whitney Houston
• "Waiting Room" — Fugazi

Connect

Macon Pickleball Official Website - https://maconpickleball.org/
Bike Walk Macon Official Website - https://bikewalkmacon.com/
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

In This Episode

In this episode, we explore the vibrant arts scene in Macon, Georgia, highlighting organizations like the Macon Arts Alliance and 478 Creatives. Discover how these groups foster community, support local artists, and promote public art and murals that tell Macon's story.

Featured Guests: Erin Hawkins & Kara Heard

478 Creatives

Topics include:

• The role of visual arts and murals in community identity
• How 478 Creatives supports diverse artists and fosters collaboration

Featured Guest: Julie Wilkerson

Executive Director, Macon Arts Alliance

Topics include:

• The impact of public art festivals like the Macon Mural Festival
• Opportunities for community involvement in arts organizations
• The importance of supporting local art for economic and cultural growth

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ripple Makers and Macon's Creative Scene
01:15 The Importance of Visual Arts in Community Building
02:16 Macon's Identity Beyond Music: The Visual Arts
03:07 Meet the Creatives: 478 Creatives and Their Mission
04:20 The Role of Art in Community Cohesion and Economic Development
05:55 Future Goals of 478 Creatives and Connecting Artists
07:11 Annual Events and Opportunities to Support Local Art
09:01 What Makes Macon Unique as a Creative Hub
10:33 Lessons Learned as an Artist and Organizer
11:25 Music and Art: The Cultural Vibe of Macon
13:27 Introduction to the Macon Arts Alliance
14:07 The Role of the Arts Alliance in Macon’s Cultural Life
15:33 Diverse Art Forms Supported by the Arts Alliance
16:32 The Make a Mural Festival and Its Impact
17:27 Community Engagement Through Art Events
18:36 Future Visions for the Arts in Macon
19:48 How to Get Involved with the Arts Alliance
21:02 Music as a Reflection of Community Values
22:09 Closing Remarks and Appreciation for Macon’s Arts Scene

Featured Music

• "Dog Days of Summer" — Florence + the Machine
• "Friendship Train" — Gladys Knight & the Pips

Connect

Macon Arts Alliance Official Website - https://www.maconartsalliance.org/
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

In This Episode

In this episode, we explore the vibrant arts scene in Macon, focusing on the iconic Bragg Jam Music Festival and the Macon Film Festival. Guests Olivia Walter and Jim Crisp share the history, community impact, and future vision of these cultural events, highlighting how they foster local talent and bring people together through music and film.

Featured Guest: Olivia Walter

President, Bragg Jam Board of Directors

Topics include:

• History and origin of Bragg Jam
• Community impact of music festivals
• Supporting local artists and musicians
• Unique experiences at Bragg Jam

Featured Guest: Jim Crisp

Co-Founder, Macon Film Festival

Topics include:

• The role of the Macon Film Festival in local arts
• Future visions for Macon's arts scene
• The significance of film in Macon’s culture
• Notable guests and their stories
• How festivals foster community and economic growth

Sound Bites
"Bragg Jam unites the community through music, beyond genres."
"The full dome experience is like no other in Macon."
"Burt Reynolds came to Macon for a special film print."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the episode and guests
00:47 History and origin of Bragg Jam
03:56 Olivia Walters shares her involvement with Bragg Jam
05:52 The evolution and community impact of Bragg Jam
06:17 What to expect at a Bragg Jam concert crawl
09:08 Future goals for Bragg Jam and Macon’s music scene
10:18 Introduction to the Macon Film Festival
12:11 The origins and significance of the film festival
13:37 Unique film experiences and community engagement
15:56 What happens during the film festival
16:42 Filmmakers' reactions to Macon
18:00 How to get involved with the film festival
21:15 Jim Crisp shares stories about Macon’s film history
22:45 Closing remarks and appreciation for Macon’s arts community

Featured Music

• The Buckley's
• "Moon River" — Johnny Mercer

Connect

Bragg Jam Official Website - https://www.bragjam.org
Macon Film Festival Official Website - https://maconfilmfestival.com
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

In This Episode

• Welcome to the debut episode of Ripple Makers
• Meet your hosts, Charles Davis and Susie Cowan
• Why Macon's nonprofit organizations are "making waves" in the community
• Discover how these organizations preserve and promote the legacy of legendary artists and inspire future generations.

Featured Guest: Justin Andrews

Executive Director, Otis Redding Center for the Arts

Topics include:

• The mission of the Otis Redding Foundation
• Inside the new Otis Redding Center for the Arts
• How arts education builds confidence and opportunity
• The success and growth of Otis Music Camp
• Teaching young musicians both creativity and the business of music
• Continuing the legacy of Otis and Zelma Redding
• Why Macon remains one of America's greatest music cities

Featured Guest: Richard Brent

Executive Director, The Big House Museum

Topics include:

• The story behind the Allman Brothers Band's legendary home
• How Southern Rock was born in Macon
• The lasting influence of Capricorn Records
• Why preserving music history matters
• The museum's role in tourism and economic impact
• Future plans for The Big House Museum

Sound Bites
"Macon has brought out more superstars than anywhere else"
"Music is colorblind, everybody can get along"
"Please Call Home sums up Macon and the Big House"

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ripple Makers and Macon's Music Scene
01:08 Justin Andrews and Otis Redding Foundation Overview
02:42 What is the Otis Redding Center for the Arts?
04:09 Features of the Otis Redding Center for the Arts
05:01 Legacy of Otis Redding and his family's involvement
05:39 Otis Music Camp and its growth over 19 years
07:39 Highlights from Otis Music Camp and youth performances
08:02 Justin Andrews on Otis Redding's influence and legacy
09:21 The importance of making music in Macon’s history
10:15 Resources to learn more about Macon’s music scene
10:41 Justin Andrews recommends Otis Redding song 'Grooving Time'
12:30 Introduction to Richard Brent and the Big House Museum
12:49 The history and significance of the Big House in Macon
15:42 The Allman Brothers Band and their connection to Macon
17:12 Impact of Macon on the Allman Brothers and Southern Rock
19:23 The Big House as a modern music venue and event space
21:02 Richard Brent's song choice: 'Please Call Home'
22:07 Closing remarks and future plans for Macon’s music legacy

Featured Music

• "Groovin' Time" — Otis Redding
• "Please Call Home" — The Allman Brothers Band

Connect

Otis Redding Foundation - https://www.otisredding.com
Big House Museum - https://www.bighousemuseum.com
Otis Redding Center for the Arts - https://www.otorc.org
Otis Redding Music Camp - https://www.otisredding.com/music-camp
StreamTheCreek - https://streamthecreek.com

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.

Genuinely Southern Whether through writing, broadcasting, or word-of-mouth, stories have always forged a connection between people and places. Nowhere else is this truer than in The South. Southern artist, influencer, speaker, and author Mark Ballard will weave stories of life in Macon, Georgia, and stories of the South. Tales told as only Mark can, will be interwoven with guest interviews and listener questions and requests.

About This Podcast

• Meet your hosts, Charles Davis and Susie Cowan
• Why Macon's nonprofit organizations are "making waves" in the community

Listen to more original podcasts:
StreamTheCreek.com

Follow Stream the Creek on social media for new episodes, local stories, and community conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Ripple Makers with someone who loves Macon and believes in the power of community.