Local Matters

In this fascinating episode, George Halford sits down with Tennessee Tech cybersecurity expert and former FBI cyber agent Regis Billings to explore a career that spans military service, national security, and higher education. Billings shares how growing up in White County, serving in the Air Force, and working on some of the nation's most complex cyber investigations shaped his perspective on leadership, service, and technology. The conversation also examines the growing importance of cybersecurity, the evolving role of artificial intelligence, the value of developing future cyber professionals at Tennessee Tech, and why human judgment, integrity, and relationships will remain essential in an increasingly digital world. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Morgan White, the inaugural Tourism and Main Street Director for Livingston and Overton County, to discuss her vision for showcasing one of the Upper Cumberland's most unique communities. White shares how her background in tourism, community development, and nonprofit leadership prepared her for the role, while highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses, preserving historic downtowns, and growing visitor engagement. The conversation explores how tourism benefits local residents, the collaboration behind the new position, and the many outdoor, cultural, and historic attractions that make Overton County a destination worth discovering. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of Local Matters Health Matters, hosts Drs. Mabry & Lee are joined by local family physician Dr. Ernie Buchanan of Upper Cumberland Family Physicians and Peter Richards, a third-year medical student at LMU, to separate health facts from social media fiction. They discuss the science behind GLP-1 weight loss medications, high-protein diets, intermittent fasting, continuous glucose monitors, gut health, probiotics, and other popular wellness trends. The conversation offers practical, evidence-based advice to help listeners navigate today's health information with confidence while emphasizing healthy lifestyle habits over online hype. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this heartwarming episode, Taylor and Dylan Roberts, owners of Roberts Five Farm in Sparta, join the show to share the remarkable story behind one of the Upper Cumberland's most beloved seasonal destinations. What began as an unexpected idea sparked during a work trip overseas has grown into a thriving flower farm built on faith, family, and perseverance. The couple discusses the challenges of growing more than 100,000 tulips each year, balancing farm life with raising three young children, and how they hope every visitor leaves the farm with a sense of peace. They also preview exciting plans to expand with sunflowers and wildflowers while reflecting on the role faith continues to play in every season of their journey. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode, Jeremy Wendt sits down with Jonathan Davis, the new Headmaster of Highland Rim Academy, to discuss his first year leading the school and his vision for its future. Davis shares his journey from educator and coach to school administrator, explains the principles behind classical Christian education, and discusses how Highland Rim is preparing students to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and servant leaders. The conversation also explores the school's continued growth, the value of relationship-centered learning, thoughtful technology use, and the opportunities ahead as Highland Rim approaches its 20th year of serving families in the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this heartfelt episode, George Halford sits down with Tena Rogers, whose remarkable life journey spans adoption, faith, family, and a successful career in the country music industry. Tena shares the extraordinary story of being adopted as an infant after a difficult start in life, explaining how the unconditional love of her adoptive parents shaped her future and fueled her passion for advocating for adoption. She also reflects on her decades working alongside country music stars including Kenny Rogers, Lorrie Morgan, Pam Tillis, Tanya Tucker, and Joe Diffie, while emphasizing that faith and perseverance guided every opportunity along the way. Tena opens up about the heartbreaking loss of her longtime partner, singer-songwriter Mark Houser, and discusses how she is carrying on his vision through Americanaville concerts, Pioneer Days in Livingston, and other community projects. Throughout the conversation, she encourages listeners to embrace adoption, cherish family, stay humble, and use their gifts to serve others and strengthen their communities. Listen To The Local Matter Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this powerful episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Ryan Henry of the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency, whose own journey from addiction, incarceration, and homelessness to recovery has inspired a mission of helping others rebuild their lives. Ryan shares how his personal experiences led him to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and explains how UCHRA's UC Recovery program connects individuals across the Upper Cumberland with transportation, treatment, housing, employment, and long-term support. He discusses the importance of relationships, accountability, and meeting people where they are while emphasizing that recovery is possible when individuals are ready to take the first step. Through lived experience and a deep commitment to serving others, Ryan offers hope to those struggling with addiction and highlights the growing network of community partners working to help people achieve lasting recovery and a fresh start. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this exciting episode of the Local Matters podcast, the owner of Ugly Mug Bar and Grill, Brad Taylor, reflects on the restaurant's first year in business and the lessons he's learned about entrepreneurship, leadership, and serving a small community. Brad discusses building the Spencer restaurant from the ground up, creating a menu focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and establishing a destination known for live music and hospitality. He also shares how surrounding himself with the right team has allowed the business to grow while emphasizing the importance of listening to employees and customers, adapting to challenges, and maintaining quality above all else. Beyond the restaurant, Brad explains his commitment to investing back into Van Buren County through local jobs, scholarships, and community support, all while working to make the Ugly Mug more than just a place to eat. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Cookeville High School senior Creed Hardison to discuss his remarkable journey in student leadership, media production, and public service. Hardison shares his experience serving as executive producer of Cav Connect TV, being elected 2026 Tennessee Boys State Governor, and balancing academics, athletics, and entrepreneurship while preparing for a future in medicine. The conversation also explores the value of mentorship, the impact of Putnam County Schools, the importance of student involvement, and how leadership opportunities today are helping shape the next generation of community leaders. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this engaging episode, George Halford sits down with Tennessee Tech professor and Putnam County Poet Laureate Aaron Hoover to discuss the power of poetry, storytelling, and the arts in shaping both individuals and communities. Hoover reflects on the life experiences that inspired her writing, from growing up near Three Mile Island to living in New York City during the September 11 attacks, and explains how those moments continue to influence her work. She also shares her vision for expanding poetry throughout the Upper Cumberland, supporting young writers, and helping strengthen Cookeville's growing arts community through Tennessee Tech, the Sawmill Poetry Series, and her role as Poet Laureate. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Tennessee Technological University President Philip Oldham joins host Ben Rodgers to detail what's in store for the future of TTU. Oldham starts off by shedding some light on his journey to becoming President of Tennessee Tech, and what led him down this path to presidency. In addition to shedding some light on his journey, Oldham also makes sure to highlight the future of Tech and its' ever-expanding campus. From new, groundbreaking research to a new ACME building, Oldham discusses it all! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this informative Health Matters episode, Drs. Jennifer Mabry and Emily Lee sit down with wound care nurse practitioner Marcy Little to discuss why proper wound care is about much more than treating the injury itself. Little explains the difference between acute and chronic wounds, why conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, and nutrition play a critical role in healing, and when it's time to seek professional care. The conversation also debunks common wound care myths, offers practical tips for preventing infections and pressure injuries, and explores the latest advances in wound treatment, giving listeners valuable information to help themselves and their loved ones heal safely and effectively. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Helping bring a community together through coffee is Anna Dunn's mission. And on this episode of the Local Matters podcast, she joins Luke Ramey to discuss how her local business 'Soul Craft Coffee' is helping. From detailing the journey she went on with the shop, to highlighting what's in store for the future, Dunn shares it all. In addition to this, she also offers insights into new menu items, upgrading her equipment, and hoping to continue the growth of Cookeville's West Side. From a new travel bus tour business to how it all got started, Dunn details it all in this episode of the Local Matters podcast! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Upperman High School Teacher of the Year Leann Walker to discuss her journey from non-traditional college student to award-winning special education teacher. Walker shares what drew her to a CDC classroom, how real-world learning experiences help prepare students for life beyond high school, and why building relationships is at the heart of effective teaching. She also reflects on the importance of inclusion, the impact of peer mentorship, and the joy of helping students develop the confidence and independence they need to succeed in school, the workplace, and everyday life. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Winningham Cemetery is known for its' vast historical presence and unique feeling it offers. On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Kay Winningham joins the show to speak on the past, present, and future of Winningham Cemetery. She highlights the sweeping of the graves and Decoration Day as a tradition, as well as detailing the aspects that makes the cemetery so beautiful. Overall, Kay talks about how important community is to society, and how this beautiful cemetery helps bring people together, even in the darkest of moments. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Victoria Ray joins Ben Rodgers on this episode of Local Matters to discuss how the Housing Authority protects and serves the UC community of homeowners and buyers. Ray also highlights how they help people keep their homes, the variety of loans and resources available to help in the process of aiding, and more! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Heidi Clopton joins Drs. Mabry & Lee to shine a light on her journey as a child therapist. She talks about her early beginnings and where she first found her love for helping others, as well as her recent years and the trends she has seen in young children. She touches on family involvement in children and the integral role of it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Bringing healthier options to Jamestown has been Leann Smith's goal for a while, and she joins Luke Ramey to discuss how she's doing it. Owner and operator of Native Provisions, Leann's goal was to bring healthier diet choices to Jamestown that are delicious, affordable, and fun all around! With the community being the focus of this goal, Smith hopes to continue achieving this goal every day! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Putnam County Board Of Education Representative Kim Cravens highlights some of the big changes in education as of late. She talks about the improvements made in limiting phone/technology usage in schools, as well as a shift from students favoring blue collar and trade routes opposed to a collegiate one. To end the show, Cravens shines a light on the future of Putnam County and what's in store for the next decade and beyond! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

As one of Cookeville's most iconic restaurants continues to thrive almost twenty years after being bought, Blue Hensley joins George Halford to discuss the many things keeping it going. From putting family and faith first, honoring the customers' opinions, and hoping to continue growing as a business, Hensley details it all! In addition to this, Hensley also highlights what is in store for the future of Crawdaddy's as a business! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Are you properly caring for your best friends? On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Jennifer Hutchinson-Tracy of the Putnam Animal Shelter joins Ben Rodgers to share some proper tips for animal care and protection. As well as proper animal care tips, Jennifer speaks on what it's like working for an animal shelter, and her journey into the animal business. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From new advancements in technology and trends that could negatively affect your child, Tracy Bucholz joins Drs. Mabry & Lee to discuss it all. She highlights the scary rise in technology and screen time, and how it negatively affects young children's development. She offers many solutions and areas of aid that parents could implement into their child's daily life. As well as technology negatively impacting young children's development, Tracy discusses the medical signs of trauma and neglect and the services available for treatment. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

After transforming one of Cookeville's oldest buildings into a beautiful new pizzeria, Gene Hayenga joins Luke Ramey to discuss all things Gene's Pizzeria. They dive into Gene's journey into the restaurant business, as well as what inspired him along the way. In addition to this, Gene highlights the variety of menu items and cozy bar atmosphere; highlighting how Gene's Pizzeria is more than just a pizzeria. From unique specialty deals and exciting upcoming events, Gene's Pizzeria is a great place for anyone looking for a fun time! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Preparing students for their future is the number one goal of every school district. And on this episode of the Local Matters podcast, host Jeremy Wendt is joined by Adam West of Putnam County School Systems as they discuss school services offered for student advancement. They break down the Future Ready Program offered by Putnam County, highlighting the benefits they have seen from the program. In addition to this, they discuss the other side of education; that being the challenges teachers face on a daily basis. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

As the future draws closer, what can the Upper Cumberland expect to see out of itself? To answer this question, former Chamber of Commerce member Thom Robinson joins host George Halford to discuss this. In addition to speaking on what the future holds for the Upper Cumberland, Robinson also shines a light on his many career achievements accomplished from a mixture of hard work, dedication, and faith. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Patrick Cripps joins Ben Rodgers on this episode of the Local Matters podcast to highlight many of the changes happening in and around the DeKalb County school system. As Director of Schools, Cripps is tasked with handling the ever-changing landscape of education and the various challenges that go along with it. As education changes and evolves constantly, what are the steps DeKalb County is taking to make sure they're keeping up? And while juggling this, how does Cripps make sure to always put his community first? Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Putting your child on the right path is a tough task, and one that many parents struggle with. On today's episode of Local Matters, Drs. Mabry & Lee are joined by Malissa Mayberry as she helps give information regarding child advocacy. Mayberry shares the importance of getting your child a head start in health, detailing how vital it is for them down the road and the habits they can acquire along the way regarding health. In addition to this, Mayberry also highlights the various screenings and health trends for young children, and how they plan to offer even more in the future. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

After beginning his own car detailing business, Kyle Clark joins Luke Ramey to discuss it all on the Local Matters podcast. Kyle opens up about how he found his interest in car detailing, going in depth on what attracted him to the business in the first place. As well as opening up about his story, Kyle also speaks on the realities of car detailing, and how it necessarily isn't something for everyone. In spite of this, however, he speaks on the community aspect and how it's helped bring him closer to others. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Teaching is an ever evolving and growing career path for many young people. And on this episode, Lizzie Smith joins host Jeremy Wendt to discuss student education and recruitment. Lizzie begins by highlighting her story and the many roles of teaching on a collegiate level. Additionally, Lizzie compares her original job of educating students to her new job of recruiting them, detailing the different challenges she faces on a daily basis. And finally, she ends by discussing the modern world of education, while also speaking on the future of education. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Dogs are more than just pets; they're family. On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, host George Halford is joined by JoAnn Decollibus. JoAnn details her early journey in wanting to help others reunite with their lost dogs, and ultimately how she began a nationally scaled dog rescue service. She shares some of the most heartwarming stories of reunion between pet and owners, as well as some of the more challenging parts with a task of this magnitude. Because at the end of the day, dogs are family. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Learn more about breaking barriers to help the community with funding basic school needs with Katelyn Steakley. She joins the show to showcase the Putnam Education Partnership Foundation and what events and programs are available, such as the backpack program, stuff the bus and care closets. As well as how local churches have helped PEP grow. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Vinny joins the show talking about DUO. The Doing Unto Others ministry. What medical services do they provide? What impact does it have on the community? He answers these questions and more on this health segment on Local Matters. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Mike Cummings of Spray-Away Cleaners, joins the show sharing why he has his solo cleaning service. He discusses helping people clean up after natural disasters while traveling across the country. He opens up about his past and what the future holds for Spray-Away Cleaners, while also delving into the world of what it takes to run a business by yourself. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Joshua and Jeremy Craig join the show discussing their respective journey's into education. And the positive impact teachers have on students. What's the day to day of a high school teacher? The twins delve into it, touching on differences between their subjects and on how community shapes involvement with students in the classroom. They also cover common problems highschoolers have, how students have changed regarding phones in class, and how they as teachers find things each student likes to help make their days at school better. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Preserving the past is more than a profession—it's a calling rooted in story, heritage, and community. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Lori D. Bowers, Archives Director at the Cumberland County Archives and Family Heritage Center, to explore her deep ties to the region and the journey that led her to this role. A Cumberland County native with generations of family history in the area, Lori shares how her love of reading, writing, and the arts shaped a path that included teaching history, publishing work, and eventually preserving official records and local stories. From international travel to the D-Day beaches to researching Appalachian traditions and helping grow a global Silent Book Club chapter, her experiences bring a unique depth to her work. This conversation underscores the importance of documenting oral history and safeguarding the stories that define a community—ensuring they are never lost to time. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Warren County EMA Director/Chief of Staff & Tourism Jason Hillis to discuss his many roles serving his community. Hillis shares updates to the Warren Co. Emergency System, while also highlighting his work to help improve the county. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

This week Sara Erger comes on the show talking women's health. She touches on what types of screenings women should be getting, and when the best time is to start. Erger also highlights different types of cancers and HPV risks found in women, and what can be done to prevent this. In addition to this, Erger shines a light on the the rise of colon/rectal cancers in younger age ranges and cancer risks, giving invaluable information to help aid those searching for some answers. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Emily joins Luke telling her story of how and why she started R&R Nutrition and what products they have. As well as wellness and health, and how you can start or upgrade your wellness journey. She also shares how Multi-Level Marketing ties into how she runs her business. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy sits down with Robin Twitty exploring the ins and outs behind how food benefits education performance and what influenced her to work with Food to the Rescue. In addition to this, she highlights what the organization is all about and how they help students facing food insecurity while going to school, while also detailing how they can qualify for that help. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Service has been a constant thread throughout Tish Seidler's life, shaping every community she's been part of. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Tish, President of the Cookeville Jr. Women's Club, to talk about her journey from Texas to New York and ultimately finding her forever home in Cookeville. From leading PTAs and volunteering with organizations like the American Cancer Society and Dress for Success, to serving alongside her family in ministry and local nonprofits, Tish shares how each chapter led her to a deeper purpose in community involvement. She gives an inside look at the Cookeville Jr. Women's Club, highlighting their projects, social events, and beloved initiatives like Santa's Workshop, all while explaining the impact of their 41-member organization. This conversation is a testament to the power of service, connection, and finding meaningful ways to give back—right where you are. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tune in as Ben Rodgers sits down with Monterey Police Chief John Mackie for an engaging and high-energy conversation! Chief Mackie shares what it was like growing up in the very community he now serves and the journey that led him into law enforcement. He also breaks down the department's budget, new equipment upgrades, and the team behind the badge. Don't miss this inside look at leadership, service, and hometown dedication. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On today's episode, we sit down with Dr. James Cates talking all things men's health in honor of Men's Health Month. Starting off with his medical background and misconceptions around men's health. They also touch on the use of GLP-1 medications and changes in weight loss. As well as supplementing water and protein for proper weight loss without the medication. From GLP-!s to Cancer Screenings and everything in between, men's health is more important than ever to keep track of and discuss. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1