Local Matters

Ben Rodgers sits down with John Deane of the Jackson County and Gainesboro Chambers of Commerce, who shares his journey from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. to building a life and multiple businesses in Granville, Tennessee. John talks about meeting his wife, their careers in medical research and healthcare, and the unexpected leap from hospitals to hospitality as owners of Wildwood Resort and Marina. He reflects on transforming the old marina into a thriving destination, opening Miss Sallie's Market, launching a frozen custard shop, and how these projects have strengthened his role within the Chamber by deepening his connection and sense of belonging in the community. John also shares stories of their national chef search during COVID and the ongoing work to renovate a 1930s building through an asbestos-removal grant. It's an inspiring conversation about community investment, entrepreneurship, and the impact of becoming truly rooted in a small town. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Lee welcomes Connie Garrett from Choice Health Network for a World AIDS Day conversation that cuts through stigma and brings clarity to HIV education. Originally from Celina, Connie draws on her eight years of experience serving eight counties to explain the difference between HIV and AIDS, how the virus is transmitted, and why awareness month matters. She outlines the free, non-medical support services available to anyone living with HIV and shares how to easily access them. Connie also highlights the major medical progress that allows people to live full, healthy lives today. Tune in for myth-busting, practical insight, and important local resources. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Josh Wanamaker, musician and co-owner of Flat Foot Records, McMinnville's newly opened local record store located just steps from the historic Park Theatre on Main Street. Josh shares the inspiration behind opening the shop, his favorite places to hunt for vinyl, and what sets Flat Foot Records apart—from its unique mix of music memorabilia to the way different social groups naturally collide and connect inside the store. He talks about his mission to give McMinnville something it's been missing: a true local music hub with listening stations, a hangout area, and plans for intimate acoustic performances. Josh and Tiffany also dive into the story behind the name “Flat Foot Records,” their upcoming tracks and collectibles, and the deeper, more complex world of collecting high-quality vinyl. It's a conversation about community, creativity, and the impact a small music store can make on a downtown scene. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Host Jeremy Wendt sits down with Penny Meadows, Director of LBJNC Head Start, to talk about how early education is changing lives across the region. Penny shares her journey from volunteering as a Head Start parent in Crawford to leading the program that now serves 80 children in four Upper Cumberland communities—Livingston, Byrdstown, Jamestown, and Cookeville. She reflects on the program's rich history, the support that helped her earn her college degree, and the impact of initiatives like the foster grandparent program and recent grant projects. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Narcan trainer and recovery advocate Justin Cantrell joins us to share his remarkable journey from childhood trauma and addiction to nearly a decade of sobriety and service. Born and raised in DeKalb County, Justin opens up about his struggles with substance use, incarceration, and faith—and how those experiences now fuel his passion for saving lives across the Upper Cumberland. As a member of the Smith County Drug Coalition and founder of the Upper Cumberland Support Group, he discusses the impact of overdose prevention, the importance of community, and how faith and perseverance can turn pain into purpose. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Brad Halfacre sits down with Michael Hodge from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park to explore what makes it one of Tennessee's treasured International Dark Sky Parks. Michael explains why winter skies are clearer, which constellations shine brightest this time of year, and dives into the science behind what we see overhead. He also previews the December 14th meteor shower and shares the best places in the park to catch the show. It's a stellar listen for anyone who loves astronomy, nature, or simply looking up. Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Putnam County Commissioner Jonathan A.D. Williams, whose journey from Chicago to the Marine Corps to Cookeville shaped a lifelong commitment to service. Williams shares how his upbringing, military career, and years in law enforcement inspired his passion for local government and community leadership. Now a barber and the representative for District 1, he talks road infrastructure, school priorities, and the importance of building consensus over holding grudges. It's an honest look at what it takes to serve your neighbors—and why relationships matter in politics. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Lee sits down with Nurse Practitioner Stacie Rothfus for National Influenza Vaccination Week, an annual December spotlight on flu prevention. Stacie shares her journey from urgent care to her work as both a Tennessee Tech NP and a hospitalist at Cookeville Regional. She breaks down why education on influenza—and especially the vaccine—is critical. From common symptoms to the complications that make the flu truly dangerous, Stacie explains how the flu shot helps protect our community. Tune in for a clear, practical look at staying healthy this season. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Vickie Pelamati and Karen Ritchie of The Lovely Find Tea Room, a charming Granville getaway dedicated to preserving the traditional English tea experience. Vickie, the owner, shares how purchasing a small house after her husband's passing inspired her vision for a tea room, while Karen, the manager, explains her love for classic English Tea Time and how that passion turned into a business with her best friend. Together, they discuss serving everyone from Red Hat ladies and Girl Scouts to men in overalls—with special mugs ready for larger hands—and how their faith keeps them moving forward through every challenge. Karen breaks down their rotating English lunch menu, unique tea blends, regular customer groups, and their intimate 18-guest capacity, along with their five-year-old age limit to preserve the experience. They also preview upcoming events, including a festive visit from Mrs. Claus on December 14th and 15th. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In this episode host Jeremy Wendt sits down with Dr. Michael Littrell from Tennessee Tech's College of Education and Human Sciences. Together, they talk about how technology—and even artificial intelligence—is changing the way future educators learn and teach. Dr. Wendt reflects on his own Cookeville roots, growing up in a blue-collar family and working with his dad to wire the Tech campus, and how that early spark for technology still shapes his approach to education today. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Morgan Abston, Public Information Officer for the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, to talk about family, service, and community. As the daughter and granddaughter of longtime law enforcement officers — including former Sheriff Jerry “Pa” Abston — Morgan shares how their legacies shaped her path. She opens up about the heartbreaking loss of her father, the deep community roots her family planted, and her own mission to serve with integrity. From working with Nashville media to ensuring accurate information reaches the public, Morgan brings passion and purpose to her role. This episode is a heartfelt look at tradition, resilience, and the love of Putnam County. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Bryan Arms, the Executive Director of Tourism for Pickett County, to talk about his first year in the role and his deep roots in the community. Bryan shares his journey from growing up on “Slob Knob” and playing on Pickett County High School's 1999 state championship basketball team, to studying civil engineering at Tech and spending 30 years at Perdue Farms before its closure. He discusses how those experiences shaped his transition into tourism, his first tourism conference, and his vision for drawing visitors to Pickett County—especially the major attraction, Dale Hollow Lake. Bryan also reflects on his family history in Clay County, summers in Celina, and the teachers who influenced him. Plus, Ben wraps things up with one of his best fishing stories from Dale Hollow Lake. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In this informative episode, Dr. Lee sits down with Dana Karlowski, CEO of Dr. John's Medical Solutions, to shed light on Sleep Apnea Awareness. Dana breaks down the difference between obstructive and central sleep apnea, explains how to recognize when snoring may signal a more serious issue, and outlines the key symptoms to watch for. She also shares important statistics about how factors like ethnicity, genetics, and weight can increase risk. Together, they debunk common myths and offer practical tips for improving overall sleep health. News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton talks with Robbie and Darrell Jackson of Jackson Moving, a Cookeville-based moving company serving the Upper Cumberland since 2006. Darrell shares how what started as helping a friend move grew into a thriving local business with repeat clients and a trusted reputation. They discuss their busiest times of year, how they hire a reliable team—including a female mover to help clients feel safe—and the wide range of moving services they provide, from furniture rearrangements to U-Haul and Penske truck assistance for new Tennessee residents. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt talks with Mel Presley, principal of Park View Elementary, about her journey in education and the lessons she's learned along the way. Mel shares how her passion for teaching and her dedication to students led her from the classroom to the principal's office. She reflects on what makes Park View special, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and the importance of creating a positive, supportive school environment for every child. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Chuck Johnson, lifelong Putnam County resident and owner of Johnson's Nursery, to reflect on a legacy that began in 1918 when his grandfather purchased the family farm. Born in Cookeville in 1943 and raised in Baxter, Chuck shares stories of his upbringing alongside his two sisters and the early days of the nursery business started by his father and uncle. He discusses how he grew and developed the nursery into a lasting part of the community. It's a conversation filled with local history, family tradition, and deep agricultural roots. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Chelsea Dartez, the creative force behind Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine, joins Ben Rodgers to share her incredible journey—starting with college life and karaoke shifts in a little Nashville alleyway, to discovering through gigs in Texas that the music industry wasn't where she belonged. After settling in Cookeville, she used her public relations background to shape the very first layout of the magazine, and she reflects on how far it's come since that early issue. Chelsea talks about building a dedicated team, the challenges of producing a completely free community-focused publication, and her plans to expand into Sparta, Livingston, and even a new Crossville edition under her umbrella. With a mission to highlight everyday people doing extraordinary things, she opens up about earning the trust of the community as an outsider and shares exciting details about the digital platform she's getting ready to launch—so even more readers can stay connected to the good happening right here at home. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Lee is joined by Mary Fornehed to highlight the importance of COPD Awareness Month. Mary shares her background—from growing up in a medical family to earning her degrees at Tennessee Tech and Vanderbilt—and her extensive work in pulmonary critical care. She breaks down what COPD is, the most common symptoms, and why patients are more susceptible to frequent infections. Mary also discusses risk factors such as smoking, the impact of aging on lung capacity, and the role of pulmonary clinics in patient care. Together, they clear up several common myths and offer listeners a clearer understanding of this serious condition. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Linda Shannon and Heather Montjoy, the mother–daughter team behind Lavender & Sage, to talk about their journey from side projects to a thriving all-natural self-care business. Heather shares how her first homemade deodorant sparked their passion for creating safe, trustworthy products, while Linda talks about the personal experiences that led her to explore herbal medicine. Together, they discuss the creativity behind their tinctures, their beloved Fire Cider, and how listening to their customers—and staying true to natural ingredients—guides everything they do. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Chuck Craig from Tennessee Tech University to talk about the importance of student advising and mentorship. Together, they explore how strong advising relationships help students find their path, stay engaged, and make the most of their college experience. Chuck shares insights from his work at Tech and how the university is continually improving student support to ensure every Golden Eagle has the tools to succeed. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Ken Patton to discuss his work with the Civil War Round Table in Crossville, part of a network of three round tables across Tennessee. Ken shares the group's mission to preserve and explore Civil War history through expert speakers, Living Historians, and educational field trips to historic sites like Chickamauga. He discusses the challenges of attracting high-quality speakers and the unique role of Living Historians in bringing the past to life. With a passion for expanding their reach, Ken hopes to strengthen programming and draw in Civil War enthusiasts from across the country. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Danny Hale, DeKalb County Road Superintendent, to talk about the challenges and rewards of keeping the county's roads in shape. Danny shares how his background in excavation led him to public service, how he navigated tight budgets when first elected in 2018, and what he's learned managing road projects and staff during his second term. Listeners get an inside look at the dedication it takes to keep DeKalb County moving forward. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee talk with Kim Mayberry from Cookeville Regional Medical Center in recognition of American Diabetes Awareness Month. Kim explains the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and discusses who is most at risk, including those with pre-diabetes. She shares insight on early symptoms and non-controllable risk factors, as well as local programs and resources available for diabetic patients in the Upper Cumberland region. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton chats with Hannah Istvanko, co-founder of Privy Clear, about the journey of launching a powerhouse marketing agency. When Hannah's former colleague Sarah pitched a business idea while eight months pregnant, Hannah initially turned it down—but the second time around, something clicked. Now, the duo builds custom, data-driven marketing solutions through Google Ads and web development, helping businesses grow beyond vanity metrics. Hannah shares how coding skills, smart analytics, and a global Google certification set them apart—and what their free 48-hour audit can uncover about your website. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt talks with Gary Tinsley about the great things happening at Clay County High School. From dedicated teachers to strong community support, Gary highlights what makes the school special and how students are being prepared for success both in and out of the classroom. He also shares how the school continues to grow while keeping that close-knit, small-town spirit Clay County is known for. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Host George Halford sits down with Gloria Vick for a conversation full of history, heart, and hope. Gloria shares stories from her adventurous life, from fishing with her father and studying at Tennessee Tech to traveling through Europe and witnessing Cookeville's dramatic growth over the decades. Now deeply involved in jail ministry, she talks about her work leading Celebrate Recovery, a faith-based 12-step program changing the lives of incarcerated women. She also explains the innovative “program pods” inside the jail and how the team helps women rebuild their lives after release. It's a powerful story of redemption, resilience, and the lasting impact of service. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers talks with Connor McDonald, Smith County Commissioner, about his journey in public service and what it means to serve a community with deep local roots. Connor shares how his early involvement in political campaigns led him to run for office, the challenges he faced when managing a county budget during a financial crisis, and what he's learned since being elected in 2022. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at county leadership and the dedication it takes to balance fiscal responsibility with serving the people of Smith County. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee talk with Melanie Hendricks from Alzheimer's Tennessee in honor of National Alzheimer's Month. They discuss the signs and stages of Alzheimer's, how it differs from other forms of dementia, and what families can do to recognize early symptoms. Melanie shares her personal story and insight into the emotional and financial challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's. The conversation also highlights volunteer opportunities, the upcoming “Walk to Make Alzheimer's a Memory” event on November 8th, and ways to support those affected. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Valerie Goetz of Native Works in Gainesboro, a company specializing in replica artifacts for museums and gift shops. Valerie shares how her love for museums and wood carving evolved into a business rooted in her Native American heritage, including skills like pine needle basket-making passed down from her aunt. She reflects on growing up during the Jim Crow era, distancing herself from her heritage to pursue a career in chemistry, and eventually reconnecting with her roots through art. After years in Ohio and Arkansas, Valerie returned to Tennessee, where Native Works continues to grow its impact across the state. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Allen Richardson, a 2017 Cookeville High School graduate, now serves as an ISS teacher and coaches football, wrestling, and track—the same sports he played as a student. He began his path to teaching during COVID-19 while substituting at Prescott Middle School, which sparked his passion for education. Allen emphasizes time management, discipline, and adapting to modern athletic pressures, both in the classroom and on the field. He also competes in strongman competitions, using his own experiences to inspire students to push through challenges and grow through effort. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Sean Mitchell — former California Highway Patrol officer, author, and natural storyteller. From a childhood shaped by loss and resilience in Sacramento to discovering a love for radio and eventually serving in law enforcement, Sean shares the defining moments of his life with honesty and humor. He reflects on the life-changing experience of the police academy, the mentors who guided him, and the inspiration behind his books, including a guide to passing background checks and his short story collection, Six Lane Highway. Now retired and living in Tennessee, Sean continues to write, perform, and explore life with purpose. It's a powerful and uplifting conversation you won't want to miss. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In recognition of National SIDS Awareness Month, Dr. Lee and Dr. Mabry sit down with Heather Cathey, Family and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, to have an important conversation about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Heather breaks down what SIDS is—and what it isn't—while addressing common myths, risk factors, and the life-saving precautions parents can take. She shares practical advice on safe sleep setups, the dangers of certain gadgets like weighted swaddles, and why infant brains need different care than adults. The episode also explores how local pediatric care in the Upper Cumberland has evolved to combat high infant mortality rates. If you're a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this episode is packed with critical insights and local resources you need to know. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton chats with Leslie Russell Yost, owner of Ozone Café & Market in Crab Orchard, TN. Leslie shares how she transformed an old gas station near Ozone Falls into a vibrant plant-based café and market, inspired by her southern roots and love of cooking. She discusses her journey from growing up in a steakhouse-owning family to crafting vegan versions of southern classics—like her mother's pulled pork recipe recreated with jackfruit. Leslie also talks about her loyal local customer base, the café's cozy features like a book nook, and her hopes of expanding in the future. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Dr. James Akenson to reflect on his remarkable 50+ year career at Tennessee Tech. Born in Minneapolis and raised with deep Midwestern roots, Dr. Akenson shares how his early teaching experiences in Wisconsin and inspiration from his historian brother led him into higher education. He recalls his first days on campus, meeting President Derryberry, and watching Tech evolve while remaining grounded in its student-centered spirit. With a passion for engaging students, Dr. Akenson emphasizes the importance of personal connection in the classroom—often using music, especially country, to make learning memorable. His reflections highlight the lifelong influence of great teachers and the power of caring deeply about your students. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Paula Stover of the Overton County Heritage Museum to explore her deep-rooted connection to the region and her passion for preserving its history. A fifth-generation Overton County resident, Paula shares stories from her childhood—traveling cross-country by train as an infant during WWII, working on the family farm, and gathering corn by hand with her siblings. She reflects on her father's service in the war, his later career as a beloved science teacher, and his legacy in the community. Paula also dives into the fascinating origins of Overton County, its shifting borders, and her efforts to preserve its rich past through the museum and her published work on Revolutionary War veterans. This episode is a living tribute to heritage, resilience, and the stories that shape a community. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rogers sits down with Mark Farley, Executive Director of the Upper Cumberland Development District. They discuss Mark's journey into his role, the vital work UCDD does across all 14 counties, and how grant funding—over $52 million last year alone—supports local governments, small businesses, and critical programs like substance abuse recovery. Mark also shares insight into regional growth, the challenges of working with newly elected officials, and the importance of collaboration in moving the Upper Cumberland forward. It's a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region's most impactful organizations. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Angela Rector, a licensed professional counselor and Director of the Center for Counseling and Mental Health Services at Tennessee Tech, shares her decades of experience serving the Upper Cumberland. She reflects on her personal journey into mental health work and discusses the vital suicide prevention efforts taking place on campus and in the broader community. Dr. Rector explains how suicide impacts individuals, families, and entire communities—and why breaking the stigma around asking for help is critical. Listeners will learn about local statistics, the warning signs of suicide, how to respond to someone in crisis, and the essential role of the 988 crisis line. This conversation offers both insight and hope for those affected by mental health struggles. News Talk 94.1

In this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with David Vaughn of Vaughn's Monument Works, a family-owned business that has been a part of Cookeville since 1946. David shares stories of his father, who began the business by selling monuments door to door, and reflects on the memories of growing up around the shop — including childhood pranks and time spent alongside the crew. He discusses how he and his brother stepped into their father's shoes, continuing the legacy while adapting to modern processes. David also offers a behind-the-scenes look at how monument delivery has evolved over the decades, and explains the materials and styles most commonly requested by families today. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford welcomes Tammy Wilson, Executive Director of Heart of the Cumberland, to share her inspiring journey from accountant to nonprofit leader. Tammy discusses her path from opening her own accounting firm to joining the Heart of the Cumberland board in 2012, eventually becoming director in 2019. She highlights the organization's eight grief support groups, including programs that reach over 500 students annually, and emphasizes the importance of connection, healing, and avoiding labels in the grieving process. Tammy also shares her vision for a stand-alone grief center and the impact of their work in schools and the wider community, all made possible through local grants and donations. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rogers welcomes Kurt Dronebarger, Director of Schools in White County. With over 27 years in education, Kurt shares insights from his decade leading the district, where all eight schools have consistently earned top academic marks. He talks about the challenges and rewards of public education, the impact of enrollment changes, and why he believes in strengthening—not defunding—our public schools. Listeners will also hear about his passion for soccer and the joy of coaching alongside his son. It's an inspiring conversation about leadership, community, and commitment to students. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1