Backroads and Backstories with Paul Bailey

Bio: Throughout his career, Jim Henry has worn many hats, including a Vietnam veteran, a state representative, a cabinet member, a Deputy Governor, a candidate for governor, a city councilman, a city mayor, and, now, you're the state director for U.S. Senator Bill Haggerty.  

Some of the highlights of the show include:  Discussion of experiences with being a reporter on fresh disaster scenes and the importance of being sensitive to those who have lost everything. Mr. Bundgaard’s father was a college coach and his mother was an English teacher and briefly a reporter. She was formative in how he looks at things as a journalist. The important questions: “Why do you do this, why do you want this?” - the questions he would ask politicians and how he would get authentic answers. He came to Nashville to work for WKRN as a producer, later moving on to covering more political matters. Discussions of Tennessee politics in the 90’s and early 00’s - transition from democrat to republican control. Goes into the Tennessee Protests- highlights Marsha Blackburn’s role. Discusses the era of sales tax vs income tax - how it changed the political climate in Tennessee. Mr. Bundgaard then recounts the protests on Capitol Hill. Moves on to discuss the differences between the protests back then vs. those that recently took place at the US Capitol. Mr. Bundgaard discusses the person he found most interesting and his experience of speaking with him. He goes on to discuss who he believed to be the most rogue politician. Discusses how he is adjusting to retired life and what he plans on doing in the future. The final question: Mr. Bundgaard explains his experience with Muhammad Ali back in the 80’s and then later covering his funeral in Louisville.

Tennessee’s Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe reflects on his experience working in the private sector and the public sector and how it has given him a full understanding of the importance of bringing in big business to our state. From beginning at the ground level to recruiting global headquarters to Tennessee, the ECD helps to bring job opportunities to all areas of the state; which continues economic growth in Tennessee.

Senator Paul Bailey invites Natalie Allison of The Tennessean USA Today Network and Erik Schelzig of The Tennessee Journal to discuss their thoughts on how social media and other platforms have changed how people get their news and how they as journalists have adapted to the constant changes and hurdles they face in the ever changing world of journalism.

In this episode of Backroads & Backstories with Paul Bailey, Senator Bailey sits down with Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally. The two discus McNally’s tenure with the state legislature and reflect on some of his biggest accomplishments throughout his career.

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey sits down with House Speaker Cameron Sexton. The two discuss the current state of local politics and life in the Upper Cumberland.

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey talks with the Comptroller of the Tennessee Treasury, Justin P. Wilson. He shares his vast knowledge of Tennessee history and his experience as the state’s 34th comptroller.

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey sits down with TN Secretary of State, Tre Hargett, to talk about his background growing up in Tennessee and how voting works in the state.

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey chats with Grand Ole Opry member Jamie Dailey, from the bluegrass and country music duo Dailey & Vincent. Jamie shares what drives his passion for music and more!

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey sits down with Tennessee 6th District Congressman John Rose. They talk about John’s experience growing up in Upper Cumberland and what inspired him to run for congress. Guest: Congressman John Rose, https://johnrose.house.gov/

In this episode of Backroads and Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey sits down with Dr. Manny Sethi, a trauma surgeon in Nashville that works at Vanderbilt Medical Center. They discuss why Dr. Sethi is running for the US Senate and he gives his take on the current events happening in Washington DC.

In this episode of Backroads & Backstories, Senator Paul Bailey is joined by government officials in a live Tele Town Hall to discuss key topics like the current state of public education, help for small businesses, and unemployment. The group included Tyler Asher, Director of the Small Business Development Center, Jeff McCord, Commissioner at the TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development, Kurt Dronebarger, Director of White County Schools, Mark Farley, Executive Director of the Upper Cumberland Development District, and Rusty Felts, Assistant Commissioner of TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development. About the Guests - Jeff McCord: Commissioner - TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development - Rusty Felts: Assistant Commissioner - of TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development - Mark Farley: Executive Director - Upper Cumberland Development District - Tyler Asher: Director - Small Business Development Center - Kurt Dronebarger: Director - White County Schools

In this episode of Backroads & Backstories, host Senator Paul Bailey talks with three men who were able to help people in the wake of the Cookeville tornado. He sits down with Sheriff Eddie Farris of Putnam County, Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter, and Darrell Jennings, an EMT worker. The group discusses the effects of the tornado and how they were able to help the community.

On this episode of Backroads and Backstories, host Senator Paul Bailey, sits down with Jake Hoot, winner of season 17 of The Voice. The Cookeville resident shares some insight on his experience on the show and what helped him on his road to victory.

In this episode of Backroads & Backstories, host Senator Paul Bailey discusses the coronavirus (COVID-19) with State Senator Richard Briggs from Knoxville, who is a cardiac surgeon, as well as State Senator and Doctor, Joey Hensley of Hohenwald, Tennessee. The group discusses the effects of the virus, as well as, how the government is handling the situation.

In this episode of Backroads & Backstories, host Senator Paul Bailey invites state Senator Frank Niceley of District 8, Senator Rusty Crowe of District 3, and Senator Shane Reeves of District 14 to give reactions to Governor Bill Lee’s recent State of the State Address, and other legislative priorities this session. The guests also share their backstories including their experience in politics.

In the premiere episode of Backroads and Backstories, host Senator Paul Bailey shares his own personal story and how he became involved in politics. Take a listen to learn more about what inspired Senator Paul Bailey to create this show.