Local Matters

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

What does it take to be a leader? Hard work, determination, and most importantly it takes heart. During this episode of Local Matters, host Luke Ramey sits down with Quentin Coffee to talk about the heart of his business and the work-life balance needed to run your own business. Coffee discusses how he builds relationships with his employees/clients, and how he runs his business to always have their best interests in mind. In addition to this, he discusses the culture of the business he has created and the exciting future he has lined up for Jericho Construction. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Education builds passion. What does a career in education counseling look like? Julie Smith is here to share her experience working in education counseling on the local level, while also explaining what steps are taken to help students in and out of school. She goes in depth on her journey and calling into this line of work, while detailing all of the heartwarming stories that makes working in such a stressful position worth it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · 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! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Crossville Fire Chief Chris South! From his early days as a volunteer firefighter to leading a modern department, Chris shares how training, gear, and the job itself have evolved over the years. He dives into the real needs of today's firefighters and what it takes to keep a community safe. Packed with adrenaline, passion, and hometown pride, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Tune in for more! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Alyssa Hudson of Middle TN Eye to discuss common eye conditions, including cataracts and other general vision concerns. Alyssa shares insights on the importance of early detection and the proper steps to take when experiencing potential vision issues. The conversation also addresses prevention strategies and highlights warning signs that are often overlooked or dismissed. Together, they debunk common myths and misconceptions surrounding eye care and the role of eye health professionals. Tune in for more! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Fencing is a big deal and a big process, but Cumberland Penn & Fence strive to make that easy. On this episode, Hunter Young joins Luke Ramey to discuss how his business strives to offer quality fencing and affordable prices. He speaks on the journey he's taken in life, and how it ultimately all led him into the world of entrepreneurship. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Building relationships are the key to a healthy community. So, how do SRO's build relationships between students and local law enforcement? Bill Harris & Dylan Ashlock are here to answer and take a look at what it means to be an SRO and how SROs have changed schools. They go in depth on what it takes to keep schools safe in the current day, while also sharing plans for the future of providing a place where students can feel safe. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Life's most defining moments often shape the stories we tell—and how we tell them. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Erin Hoover, professor at Tennessee Tech and the first Poet Laureate for Putnam County, to explore how her life experiences have influenced her work as a writer and educator. From growing up near the Three Mile Island Nuclear Incident to living in New York during the September 11 attacks, Erin reflects on how witnessing major events shaped her perspective and creative voice. She shares how poetry became a tool for processing life as a single parent, as seen in her collections Barn Burner and No Spare People, and how storytelling can help both writer and reader better understand themselves. This conversation also highlights her role in the local arts community, from teaching at Tennessee Tech to her work with the Cookeville Arts Council and the Sawmill Poetry Series—showing how poetry continues to connect, inspire, and bring people together. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Dr. Jeannette Luna from Tennessee Technological University to discuss NASA's Artemis mission and the future of lunar exploration. Dr. Luna shares her journey through academia and research, along with how she became involved in space science and NASA data projects. She also highlights the strength of Tennessee Tech's research programs and the role students play in advancing real-world scientific work. From mapping lunar surfaces to preparing for future missions, she offers a look into how data, collaboration, and curiosity drive modern space exploration. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Dr. Sarah Apple of Happy Pelvis Therapy to discuss pelvic floor health and the role of pelvic floor therapy in overall wellness. Dr. Apple shares her journey from occupational therapy at UT Chattanooga to specializing in pelvic floor care after a student-led project sparked her interest. She explains common conditions such as urinary incontinence and bowel leakage, while also addressing how hydration and daily habits impact bladder health. The conversation also works to debunk common myths and misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy and highlights who can benefit from treatment. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Host Luke Ramey is joined by Brittany Rogers of Graceful Grazing to discuss her catering and food delivery service. She speaks on the success and growth she's seen from her business in the last year, highlighting the wonderful support from her local community. In addition, Rogers dives into the background of Graceful Grazing, and the 'gathering around the table' culture that inspired her to start the business. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Sheri Roberson, Putnam County Special Education Supervisor, to reflect on her 37-year career in education. Sheri shares how her path shifted from nursing to special education after discovering a passion for working with students through the Special Olympics. She discusses growing up in a family of educators, working under her father who was a principal, and eventually working alongside him early in her career. The conversation highlights the challenges of serving a large district and the support systems in place for students with special needs and their families. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From designing cars at General Motors to helping shape the future of the Upper Cumberland, Sandy Brecker has never stopped building something meaningful. Sandy joins George Halford to share her journey from Michigan engineer to Algood Planning Commissioner, photographer, and community advocate. She reflects on her passion for creativity, public service, and the impact of organizations like the Cookeville Camera Club. When purpose meets passion, remarkable things develop. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What does it take to lead a school system while carrying the perspective of a former coach, teacher, and hometown student? In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Jason Hardy to explore his journey from Jackson County High School student to educator, coach, and now administrator for the district he once called home. He reflects on years spent coaching football at Tennessee Technological University and teaching in Middle Tennessee before returning to lead Jackson County Schools. Jason also discusses the challenges facing rural education today, from declining enrollment and rising homeschool trends to staffing, funding, and student opportunity. Through it all, his focus remains steady—ensuring every student has the chance to leave school better prepared than the generation before them. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Breaking down misconceptions can be just as important as advancing the science. In this episode, Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Amy Breedlove, Executive Chair of the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson's, to discuss the realities of living with Parkinson's Disease and the mission behind the organization. Founded by Brent Peterson after his own diagnosis ended a decades-long career in the NHL, the foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson's through awareness, support, and advocacy. Amy shares how she stepped into her role, what the work means to her personally, and how the foundation continues to push forward in the fight against this disease. The conversation also takes on common myths and misconceptions in a “Myth vs. Truth” segment, offering clarity, education, and a stronger understanding of what living with Parkinson's really looks like. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What happens when construction work turns into a calling to bring people together outdoors? In this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with Chris Crouch, owner of The Bean Pot Camp Ground, to talk about how he went from buying a distressed property while working in construction to building a welcoming space centered on family, hospitality, and outdoor fun. Chris shares what inspired him to open his own campground instead of relying on state parks, along with the trails, amenities, and hands-on experiences that keep guests coming back. He also dives into the transformation of two formerly run-down properties into thriving campgrounds that honor what the original owners hoped they would become. From monthly Bluegrass Jams that have grown from a handful of attendees to over 150 people with food trucks and community at the center, this conversation shows how a simple vision for connection can grow into something much bigger—proof that sometimes the best places are built from the ground up with people in mind. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Jessica Childers, a Putnam County Middle School Math Specialist, to discuss her role supporting grades 5–8 across the school system. Jessica shares her journey from aspiring marine biologist to educator, and how she ultimately found her passion in mathematics education. She reflects on her day-to-day work coaching teachers, adapting to changing standards, and helping students build strong foundational math strategies. The conversation highlights her growth as an educator and the impact of patient, strategy-based instruction on student success. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From a two-room schoolhouse to two decades of military service, Harold Lough's story is packed with grit, faith, and old-school determination. Harold joins George Halford to reflect on farm life, military memories, meeting his wife in uniform, and the perseverance that carried their family through decades of challenges. He also shares the legacy of the American Legion and why supporting veterans remains so important today. Some lives are built on hard work—and some stories prove it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

A growing community brings opportunity—but it also brings new demands on the people sworn to protect it. In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Matt White of the Baxter Fire Department to discuss how dry weather, wildfire risk, and rapid local growth are shaping the department's work in Baxter, Tennessee. From burn permits and volunteer recruitment to critical equipment upgrades and grant funding for turnout gear, Chief White offers a clear look at what it takes to keep a growing town safe. He also shares insight into the challenges of budgeting for essential fire resources as the community continues to expand. Because when a town grows, so does the responsibility to protect every single corner of it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Healthcare doesn't always happen in a hospital—sometimes, it comes right to your front door. In this episode, Amy McKenzie and Elaine Watkins of Quality Home Health join the conversation to break down what home health really looks like. Elaine shares her 30-year journey in the field, from starting as an LPN to leading clinical care, while Amy offers insight from her background in social work and patient advocacy. Together, they walk through what a typical home health visit involves, the most common conditions they treat, and how their team helps patients maintain independence at home. From myth-busting to real-life care, this episode highlights how support, compassion, and expertise can meet patients exactly where they are. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What does it look like when medical aesthetics meets education, innovation, and personal journey all in one place? In this episode, Luke Ramey talks with Trudy Hedgecough of Anew You, a medical aesthetics spa in Crossville, Tennessee that opened in March 2020, as she breaks down the wide range of services they offer—including ultrasound therapy, sound needling, and customized skin treatments for both men and women without exception. Trudy also shares insight into their membership program, complimentary consultations, and how her team determines the right approach for each client's skin goals, along with a look at the long-standing history of treatments like Botox. Beyond the spa, she reflects on her move from Dalton, Georgia to Cookeville to attend Tennessee Tech, where she met her husband, and how her daughter now works alongside her while pursuing nursing school. From science-backed care to a deeply personal story of growth, this conversation shows how Anew You is built to help people feel confident in their own skin—one treatment at a time. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

A shift is happening in today's classrooms—one that challenges how students learn and how educators lead. In this episode, Kevin Lewis, principal of Frank P. Brown Elementary, shares his perspective on the evolving role of education and leadership. He discusses the importance of staying student-focused, along with creative initiatives like “No Technology Tuesday,” designed to help students learn without digital distractions. Kevin also reflects on the broader impact of technology in schools and why stepping away from it, even briefly, can make a meaningful difference. As classrooms continue to change, it's clear that sometimes the most effective innovation is knowing when to simplify. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Some stories don't just inspire—they strengthen your faith. Marcia Mullins joins George Halford to share her remarkable journey through family, nursing, loss, healing, and the life-changing power of prayer. From surviving cancer to overcoming heartbreak, Marcia reflects on the moments that deepened her trust in God and shaped her path to the National Day of Prayer. When faith is tested, stories like this remind us where strength begins. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What starts with a spin of a globe can change your life forever. Ben Rodgers sits down with Ethan Hadley, President and CEO of the Crossville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce, to unpack a journey that spans across continents and careers. From teaching English and raising a family in Japan to leading economic development in one of the 14 counties that make up the Upper Cumberland, Hadley shares how bold decisions and global experiences shaped his path. He also dives into the future of Crossville— from downtown growth and tourism to major developments that are putting the region on the map. It's a story of taking chances, thinking big, and building something that lasts. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

A cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty—but having the right support can make all the difference. In this episode, Dr. Emily Lee and Dr. Jennifer Mabry sit down with Beth Slatten of Cookeville Regional Medical Center to discuss the critical role of a lung nurse navigator. Beth shares how she helps guide patients through each step following a diagnosis, working to ease fear and provide clarity during an overwhelming time. She also reflects on her journey through cardiology, ICU care, pulmonary rehab, and oncology, leading to her current role supporting lung cancer patients. From risk factors to the importance of early detection, this conversation highlights how knowledge, support, and timing can truly save lives—and why no patient should have to navigate it alone. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

What starts as a conversation about property management turns into a look at how spaces are thoughtfully transformed for both living and celebration. In this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with Michele Wyatt of Homescape Signature Properties to discuss their mix of commercial and home rentals alongside their growing collection of wedding and event venues. With a background in nonprofit event planning, Michele shares how her experience organizing fundraisers translated naturally into helping clients design meaningful celebrations on a budget, including at The Silos in Crossville—known for its outdoor ceremony spots, chapel, and well-appointed bridal and groom suites. She also touches on their first venue that can host up to 250 guests, as well as a third Rockwood location currently under renovation and full of future potential. From everyday rentals to once-in-a-lifetime events, this conversation shows how intentional spaces can serve a community in more ways than one—and how to get in touch to explore them all. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From science classrooms to the principal's office, sometimes the journey takes a few unexpected turns. Jeremy Wendt sits down with Principal James Cox of A.H. Roberts Elementary School to talk about his path from teaching biology and chemistry at York Institute to leading a school community. He shares how influential teachers shaped his career, how he's navigating new P.E. and recess laws, and why creating new opportunities for students is always a top priority. With insights on leadership, adaptability, and student success, this episode highlights what it really means to grow from educator to leader—tune in for a conversation that goes beyond the classroom. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What happens when faith, education, and compassion intersect in the fight to protect children? In this episode, George Halford sits down with Tracy Bucholz, Director of the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center, to explore the experiences and values that have shaped her path into advocacy work. From her roots in a strong faith tradition and her time at Tennessee Tech—where she earned both her undergraduate and master's degrees—to her life with her family in Tennessee, Tracy reflects on how her personal journey informs her professional mission. She shares powerful insight into working with trauma, the connection between brain and body, and how nature and nurture intertwine in the lives of at-risk youth, along with how their team assesses situations and provides critical resources for children in need. This conversation highlights the importance of speaking up, recognizing the signs, and using available tools—like anonymous tip services—to protect the most vulnerable, reminding us that awareness and action are where real change begins. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1