Gaston's Great

Hosted by Steven Long

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Episodes

227

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to "Gaston's Great," the podcast that delves into the dynamic world of non-profits and leadership in Gaston County, North Carolina! I'm your host Steven Long, and I'm excited to guide you through the inspiring stories, impactful initiatives, and visionary leaders who are making a difference in our community. In each episode, "Gaston's Great" shines a spotlight on the dedicated individuals and organizations that contribute to the social fabric of Gaston County through their work in the non-profit sector. Join us as we explore the innovative solutions, community-driven projects, and the passion that fuels these organizations' missions. Discover the leadership philosophies that drive positive change, as we sit down with influential figures from Gaston County's non-profit landscape. Hear firsthand accounts of challenges overcome, victories celebrated, and the collaborative spirit that defines the non-profit sector in our community. But "Gaston's Great" isn't just about stories – it's about inspiring action and fostering a sense of community engagement. Each episode offers insights into effective leadership strategies, highlights the resources available for those looking to make a difference, and showcases how individuals can get involved in supporting local non-profits. So, whether you're an aspiring leader, a passionate advocate, or simply someone curious about the incredible work happening in Gaston County, this podcast is your go-to source for all things non-profit and leadership-related. "Gaston's Great" is your front-row seat to the heartwarming stories of those who lead with purpose and drive positive change in our beloved community. Join us on this journey of empowerment, motivation, and community building. "Gaston's Great," because leadership and non-profits are the cornerstones of a community that truly thrives. Let's explore the transformative power of leadership together!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 30, 202627 min

🎙️ 200 EPISODES. COUNTLESS STORIES. ONE GREAT COMMUNITY! 💙🎉

We're celebrating a HUGE milestone ➜ 200 episodes of Gaston's Great! For 200 episodes, we've had the privilege of sharing the incredible stories of the people, businesses, and organizations that make Gaston County such a special place to call home. This week, we're switching things up! We're turning the tables on our host, Steven Long , and taking a trip down memory lane to discover how Gaston's Great first began, reflect on the amazing people we've met along the way, and talk about what's next for Gaston's Great! But that's not all! We reached out to some familiar faces from past episodes and asked them one simple question: "In one sentence, what makes Gaston County great?" ❤️ Their heartfelt responses remind us why we started this journey in the first place, to celebrate the people and stories that make our community truly one of a kind. To every guest, listener, viewer, and supporter who has been part of these 200 episodes .. THANK YOU! We couldn't have reached this milestone without you! 🎧 Tune in as we celebrate the past, appreciate the present, and look ahead to what's next for Gaston's Great! ➜ WATCH HERE! 💙 Here's to 200 episodes and the stories still waiting to be told! 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

October 22, 202658 min

Episode 199 | Restoring Hope, Changing Lives: Tasha White of HELP Carolina

What does it take to turn a passion for helping others into a mission that makes a lasting impact? This week, we're joined by Tasha White, founder of HELP Carolina , to hear her inspiring journey, the heart behind her organization, and her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. Tasha shares what inspired her to start HELP Carolina, the challenges and rewards of building an organization focused on serving others, and why community support is so important. 💙 In this episode: The inspiration behind HELP Carolina Tasha's journey of turning compassion into action The importance of giving back and supporting those in need How one person's passion can create a ripple effect throughout a community ✨ This conversation is a reminder that making a difference starts with a heart willing to help. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 199 of Gaston's Great and discover another reason why Gaston County is so great! ▶️ WATCH THE FULL EPISODE ON YOUTUBE! 🌐 Learn more about HELP Carolina: https://www.helpcarolina.org/ 📧 Email: info@helpcarolina.org 📞 Phone: (704) 842-1916 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

October 8, 202641 min

The Heart Behind the Classroom | Gaston County Teacher of the Year Erica Baird

Great teachers do more than teach lessons, they encourage, inspire, and leave an impact that students carry with them long after they leave the classroom. In this episode, Erica shares her journey in education, what inspired her to become a teacher, and what it means to be named Gaston County Teacher of the Year . We talk about the moments that make teaching worthwhile, the importance of connecting with students, and the passion that continues to drive her every day. Erica’s story is a great reminder of the incredible educators working behind the scenes to make a difference in the lives of students and families throughout Gaston County. 💙 🎧 Tune in to Episode 198 of Gaston’s Great to hear Erica’s story and celebrate one of our educators helping shape the future of our community! 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

October 1, 2026Episode 19754 min

💜 More Than a Walk: The Fight to End Alzheimer’s

💜 What if one walk could bring us one step closer to a world without Alzheimer’s? On Episode 197 of Gaston’s Great , we’re joined by Christine John-Fuller, Executive Director, and Ashley Collier, Walk Manager, with the Alzheimer’s Association to talk about a cause that touches so many families in our community. Christine and Ashley share more about the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association , the resources and support available to individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and the importance of raising awareness right here in our community. We also dive into the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, why this event means so much to participants, how it brings our community together, and how every step helps support Alzheimer’s care, education, advocacy, and research. 💜 🟣 In this episode: • The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association • Resources available for individuals, caregivers & families • The impact Alzheimer’s has on our local community • The meaning behind the Walk to End Alzheimer’s • How you can participate, volunteer, donate & get involved • Why community support matters in the fight to end Alzheimer’s 🎙️ Tune in to Episode 197 of Gaston’s Great to hear Christine and Ashley’s stories, learn more about the resources available, and discover how you can join our community in the fight to end Alzheimer’s. 💜 Together, we can walk for those we’ve lost, those currently facing Alzheimer’s, their caregivers, and a future without this disease. 💜 Alzheimer’s Association – Western North Carolina Chapter: alz.org/northcarolina Alzheimer’s Association 👟 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Gaston/Cleveland/Lincoln: Register, Donate or Learn More About the Local Walk The local Walk is October 10, 2026 at Rotary Centennial Pavilion in Gastonia . WFAE 📱 Social Media: • Facebook: Alzheimer’s Association • Instagram: @alzassociation • YouTube: Alzheimer’s Association 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

September 24, 2026Episode 19647 min

More Than a Workspace: Building Community at Alchemy Coworking

What happens when you create a space where entrepreneurs, small business owners, remote workers, and creatives can come together? You get more than just a place to work, you build a community. 💙 In this episode, Keanu shares the story behind Alchemy Coworking , what inspired its creation, and how it’s helping people connect, collaborate, and grow right here in Gaston County. We talk about the changing way people work, the importance of having a supportive professional community, and Keanu’s passion for creating a space where ideas and relationships can thrive. 🔵 In this episode: The story and vision behind Alchemy Coworking Why coworking is about more than having a desk Building connections among local entrepreneurs and professionals Supporting small businesses and creatives in Gaston County Keanu’s journey and passion for community What’s ahead for Alchemy Coworking ▶️ Watch the full episode now! If you love hearing the stories of the people, businesses, and organizations making Gaston County great, LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE to Gaston’s Great, and SHARE this episode with someone who should know about Alchemy Coworking! 💙 🌐 Website: https://www.alchemycowork.com/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alchemycowork 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alchemy_cowork/ 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

September 17, 2026Episode 19548 min

Stronger Body, Stronger Mind: Fitness & Stoicism with Mark Mazzilli

🎙️ What if getting stronger had less to do with what you lift, and more to do with how you think? In Episode 195 of Gaston’s Great , we sit down with Mark Mazzilli of Belmont Fitness for a conversation that goes beyond workouts and into the mindset behind real strength. Mark shares his perspective on fitness, discipline, and Stoicism, including the power of focusing on what you can control, embracing challenges, and building habits that strengthen both your body and your mind. From the gym to everyday life, this conversation is about showing up, staying disciplined, and becoming stronger through the things life throws your way. WATCH NOW! Connect with Mark & Belmont Fitness: 🌐 Website: https://www.stoicbarbellclub.com/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DYa1H1ka1/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belmont_fitness/ 🎙️ Reps & Redemption Podcast: @repsandredemptionpodcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@repsandredemptionpodcast 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

August 27, 2026Episode 19453 min

Behind the Curtain with Laura Little | Theatrical Productions of Gastonia

🎙️ Tune in to Episode 194 of Gaston’s Great as we go behind the scenes with Laura Little, co-producer of multiple Broadway and Tony Award-winning productions and Executive Producer & Artistic Director of Laura Little Theatrical Productions! 🎭 Laura shares her journey in the world of theater, her passion for bringing stories to life on stage, and the work that goes into creating memorable productions right here in Gaston County. 🔵 In this episode: Laura Little’s journey into the world of theater and Broadway Behind-the-scenes stories from producing Broadway and Tony Award-winning productions Her experience with Come From Away , All Is Calm , Our Town , Peter and the Starcatcher , Parade , and more What it takes to bring a theatrical production from an idea to the stage The story behind Tliplify, the first tipping app created for actors What’s next for Laura, including Dolly, The Musical Her passion for theater, creativity, and bringing incredible productions to audiences 🎬✨ 🎭 Connect with Laura Little Theatrical Productions: 🌐 Website: http://www.lauralittletheatricals.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lltheatricalproductions/ 🔵 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraLLittleProductiions 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

August 13, 2026Episode 19339 min

Beyond the Courtroom: Locke Bell’s Journey of Leadership & Service

In Episode 193 of Gaston’s Grea t, we sit down with Locke Bell, retired District Attorney of Gaston County , for a powerful conversation about leadership, public service, and the community he has called home for decades. Locke shares his journey into law, the experiences that shaped him as a leader, and the lessons he learned throughout his career serving Gaston County. From making difficult decisions to understanding the responsibility that comes with leadership, this episode gives us a personal look at the man behind the title. 🔵 In this episode: • Locke Bell’s journey into law and public service • Lessons learned through years of leadership • The challenges and responsibilities of serving as District Attorney • His connection to Gaston County and the community • Advice and perspective gained from a lifetime of service 🎙️ Watch Episode 193 of Gaston’s Great and hear Locke Bell’s story in his own words. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with the people who make Gaston County GREAT! 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

August 6, 2026Episode 19246 min

More Than a Diagnosis: The Mission of Gaston Cancer Services

A cancer diagnosis can impact every part of a person's life , but no one should have to face that journey alone. In this episode of Gaston's Great , we sit down with Kim and Samarian from Gaston Cancer Services to learn how their organization is providing hope, compassion, and practical support to cancer patients and their families throughout Gaston County. From helping with transportation and financial assistance to connecting patients with essential resources, Gaston Cancer Services is dedicated to ensuring that no one has to navigate cancer without support. Kim and Samarian share the heart behind their mission, the impact their programs have on our community, and inspiring stories of lives that have been touched through their work. Whether you've been personally affected by cancer, know someone who has, or simply want to learn more about an organization making a meaningful difference in our community, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. In this episode, you'll learn: How Gaston Cancer Services supports local cancer patients and their families The programs and resources available throughout Gaston County Why emotional and financial support is so important during treatment Ways our community can get involved and make a difference The inspiring mission that drives Kim, Samarian, and their team every day Want to get involved? ➜ Gaston Cancer Services 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services

July 30, 2026Episode 19143 min

Episode 191: Following Your Heart with Dr. Dustin Letts

What inspires someone to dedicate their life to caring for the hearts of others? On this week's episode of Gaston's Great , we're honored to sit down with Dr. Dustin Letts , a cardiologist with CaroMont Health , for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, compassion, and the experiences that shaped his journey into medicine. Rather than focusing solely on cardiology, Dr. Letts opens up about the people and moments that led him to pursue this calling. He shares his "why"—the personal passion that continues to inspire him to care for patients with empathy, kindness, and excellence every day. This conversation is a reminder that behind every physician is a person with a story, a purpose, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Dr. Letts' humility, authenticity, and love for serving others shine throughout the episode, making it one of those conversations that stays with you long after it ends. 🔊 Thank you for listening to Gaston's Great! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you great content! 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow us on social to stay updated on the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content. 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gastonsgreat 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gastonsgreat/ 🌐 Website: https://www.gastonsgreat.com/ ▶️ Gaston's Great YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gastonsgreat 📧 Get in Touch: Have a question, suggestion, or just want to say hi? Email us at podcast@gastonsgreat.com. We’d love to hear from you! 📅 Stay Tuned: We release new episodes every Thursday, so be sure to subscribe and stay connected. Gaston's Great Podcast Brought to You By GSM Services