In this episode, we talk with Dr. John R. Gerdy, founder of Music For Everyone (MFE), a Lancaster-based nonprofit that has invested over $6.5 million into local music education and community arts since 2006. Dr. Gerdy, who served as MFE’s Executive Director until 2024, has a diverse background, including roles as Associate Commissioner of the Southeastern Conference and Legislative Assistant at the NCAA. A former All-American basketball player at Davidson College, he’s also a lifelong musician, performing under the name Willie Marble and teaching music to children.

Dr. Gerdy is the author of several books, including The Journey of an Old White Dude in the Age of Black Lives Matter and Lights on Lancaster, both released in 2023. In this conversation, he shares his passion for using music to build community and his experiences in both sports and the arts.