Macon It

The State of the Community: This is Macon’s Moment

In this episode of Macon It, we bring you Mayor Lester Miller’s full State of the Community Address, delivered at this year's Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce event. This annual address highlights the progress, priorities, and vision shaping Macon-Bibb County.
From major projects and community investments to the momentum driving our city forward, Mayor Miller reflects on where we are and where we’re headed next. It’s a comprehensive look at the state of our community, and a reminder of what’s possible when we continue moving forward together.

The Power of Community Development in Macon

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Wanzina Jackson, Director of Economic and Community Development for Macon-Bibb County, to talk about the work that’s helping transform lives across our community. With more than 20 years of service to Macon, Wanzina shares how the ECD department partners with organizations to support low- to moderate-income households through housing, resources, and opportunity.
As we celebrate National Community Development Week (April 6–10), we also take time to recognize and thank the organizations that make Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects possible. Their work, alongside Macon-Bibb County, helps create stronger neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life across our community.

Macon Good Neighbors with Jerry Battle

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Jerry Battle, Macon-Bibb County’s new Neighborhood Program Coordinator, to talk about his role as a boots-on-the-ground connector between residents and local government. Jerry shares how he’s working directly with neighborhoods to listen, build trust, and make sure every voice is heard.
We discuss the importance of neighborhood pride, how stronger communication leads to real results, and what this new role means for the future of community engagement across Macon-Bibb. It’s a conversation about meeting people where they are and building a stronger Macon… together.

The Pinkest Podcast Episode: It's Cherry Blossom Time!

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Hannah Theus, Director of Marketing and Fulfillment for the International Cherry Blossom Festival, to talk about one of Macon’s most beloved traditions. Known as the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World, Macon transforms each spring into a massive pink celebration that draws visitors from across the country...and around the globe.
Hannah shares the story behind how the festival first began, what makes it so special for the community, and gives us a preview of some of the exciting events happening during this year’s festival, March 20–29. From family-friendly activities to iconic Macon traditions, it’s all part of the pink party that takes over the city each spring.Plan your Cherry Blossom activities and learn more at: https://cherryblossom.com/

A Foundation for Community

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

Inside Macon-Bibb’s Affordable Housing Initiative

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

The Brookdale Story: Five Years, Countless Lives Changed

In this episode of Macon It, we’re joined by Alison Bender, Director of The Brookdale Resource Center, as we reflect on five years of transformation, hope, and community impact. Once a former school building, Brookdale has become a place of stability and new beginnings for neighbors experiencing homelessness.
Alison walks us through Brookdale’s journey over the past five years, and we hear powerful interview clips from former residents and longtime staff members who have witnessed lives change firsthand. Their voices tell the story of what happens when a community comes together with compassion and purpose.
This episode is a celebration of what’s possible when Macon shows up for one another and a reminder that real change is built one life at a time.
Learn more about how you can help here: https://www.maconbibb.us/brookdalestaff/

The Macon Moment: Progress, People, and Possibility

In the Season 3 premiere of Macon It, we welcome back Macon-Bibb County Manager Keith Moffett for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, listening, and this unique moment in our city’s story. Keith shares what it’s like to oversee more than 20 county departments, how he ensures every voice is heard, and why community engagement is essential to getting things done.
Keith also introduces his 2026 theme: “The Macon Moment” — a reminder that this is a rare and exciting time when so much is happening, and everyone has a role to play.

Big Moments, One Team: Macon It Wraps 2025

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

Lighting Up Downtown: Macon’s Holiday Transformation

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