This Is Nashville

It's Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout.The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from the points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are former Metro council member Fabian Bedne, former Metro school board chair and candidate for mayor, David Fox, and Tennessee State University political scientist Dr. Ian Shapiro. We're hitting the brakes on electric vehicle production in Tennessee, talking about AI surveillance of Tennessee students, leaning into the the latest on the Boring Company's airport tunnel plans and flooding for our neighbors in Chattanooga. That and more.And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week! Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat!This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests: Fabian Bedne, former Metro councilmember David Fox, former Metro school board chair and candidate for mayor Dr. Ian Shapiro, Political Scientist, TSU  

Freddie O'Connell is back for another round of “Ask the Mayor.”There are questions about a win for Metro's transit plan in the state's high court, airport tunnels, ICE recruitment on city property and the prospect of using the National Guard for policing. But there's more to be asked. What does the mayor need to know about your part of Nashville? Where is Metro Government needed? Where is Metro getting in the way? Finish this sentence: I wish the city would just…Then call us at 615-760-2000.Plus, we're opening up the phone lines to hear about your upcoming community event, like the Shades of Black Theatre Festival, celebrating twenty years next month.This episode was produced by Mary ManciniGuests Freddie O'Connell, Mayor, Metro Nashville and Davidson County Shawn Whitsell, playwright, actor, producer, director, and Co-Founder of the Shades of Black Theatre Festival Further reading and listeningAll previous episodes of Ask the Mayor can be found here.

We're facing the four-letter word no parent wants to hear — lice. Updated guidance from federal health authorities and the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents and schools don't need to panic. In fact, schools are now discouraged from sending kids home just because they have active lice. Tennessee has embraced this thinking with a new manual for schools. But it's been tough to put into practice. Williamson County Schools put a pause on updating its policy last Fall when questions started flying about the risk of leaving students with lice in the classroom. In this episode, we talk about balancing treatment and stigma, and go inside a recent infestation in Bellevue.Watch the video stream on YouTube!This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.Guests: Tonya Bryson, owner/co-executive director of the Creative Youth Enrichment Center Santiago Galera, owner of Lice Is Simple Joseph Gigante, MD, professor of general pediatrics at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital Cathryn Smith, RN, Metro Public Health Department program manager for school health and president-elect of the Tennessee Association of School Nurses

Local, award-winning author Kevin Wilson has deep Tennessee roots: he grew up in Franklin County, attended Vanderbilt, and today, teaches at Sewanee: The University of the South. Earlier this year, he released his latest novel, Run for the Hills. Like much of his work, the story considers the, (sometimes unexpected) ways “family” can come to be. He sat down with "This Is Nashville" to read an excerpt of his new release, talk about his upbringing in Tennessee and share his thoughts about why fiction writing is important in today's world (and how, in his mind, it shares some similarities with professional wrestling).This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams. Relevant reading: Wilson is the author of seven books: Tunneling to the Center of the Earth, The Family Fang, Perfect Little World, Baby, You're Gonna Be Mine, Nothing to See Here, Now Is Not the Time to Panic and Run for the Hills. If you're more of a movie-goer than a reader, Wilson's first novel, The Family Fang, was adapted into a feature film (produced and starred in by another Middle Tennessee dweller, Nicole Kidman).

It's the weekly Roundabout.From the uniquely Nashville to the national conversation, our guests today – left, right and center – will help us chew on the big stories of the week. And our Roundabout episodes give you a chance to weigh in. This week, we'll face an execution, examine Elon Musk's airport tunnel, and take an honest look at ourselves with Tennessee's new ranking as one of the worst states to live in.Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat!Guests: Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout Garrison Hayes, Mother Jones Cameron Smith, Tennessean Further reading: Nashville mayor's office queries Boring Company about tunnel plan: O'Connell's questions focus on emergency response [TN Lookout] Tennessee school cell phone bans won't work without parents' help [Cameron Smith, Tennessean] The worst place to live in the U.S.? Tennessee ranks dead last, below Alabama, Arkansas. Here's why. [Tennessean] The Knock-Down, Drag-'Em-Out Texas Redistricting Showdown Heats Up [Garrison Hayes, Mother Jones] Three charts showing the impact of the ‘Big, Beautiful Bill' on Tennessee [Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout]

In 2021, the Tennessee State Government introduced new tax incentives to encourage film productions to make their next project in the Volunteer State.On today's show, we sit down with artists, producers, and members of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission to learn why film-related economic output has grown by nearly fifty percent and whether or not Nashville has the potential to become a major film hub in the United States.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.Guests:Bob Raines, Tennessee Entertainment Commission DirectorGisela Moore, Tennessee Entertainment Commission Project ManagerLauren Thelen, Nashville Film Festival Programming DirectorSteve Taylor, Film Producer, "Sketch"Carrie Romero, Executive Producer, "The Heart Brake"Gus Romero, Executive Producer, "The Heart Brake"Abby Gollehon, Academy of Makeup Arts StudentIzzy Christensen, Academy of Makeup Arts StudentLydia Edwards, Academy of Makeup Arts Student 

On the eve of World Elephant Day, we celebrate with one of Tennessee's best kept secrets — The Elephant Sanctuary.Nestled in the woods and knolls of Hohenwald, Tenn., about 80 miles southwest of Nashville is a 3,000-acre refuge for retired elephants where they can live out their days out of the spotlight. These magnificent animals spend their remaining years in a natural habitat developed specifically for their needs. In this episode, we get a rare report from within the complex, which is off limits to the public. Members of the Elephant Sanctuary team also join us in the studio to discuss their mission, philosophy of care, and elephant conservation.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.GuestsJanice Zeitlin, President & CEO, The Elephant SanctuaryKristy Eaker, Senior Manager of Elephant Care, The Elephant SanctuaryLaura Roddy, Education Manager, The Elephant Sanctuary

Garrison Keillor is still performing, even as he turns 83 this week. He sat down with This Is Nashville in the greenroom at City Winery before his performance in June because this city was central to his creation of "A Prairie Home Companion," which launched 50 years ago. For a long time, it was one of the biggest things in public radio. He now calls leaving the show a mistake. He'll explain. And if you're thinking, “didn't he have a #MeToo moment?” Yes, we get some rather candid answers plus some wisdom only an octogenarian could offer. This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.Relevant reading: The New Yorker (1974): Onward and Upward with the Arts at the Opry USA Today (2016): Garrison Keillor leaves his 'Prairie Home' after 42 years MPR News (2018): For some who lived in it, Keillor's world wasn't funny

It's one of the toughest balancing acts of our time – kids and their screens. With most young teens having their own cellphones, screen usage is an unavoidable issue for schools. A new Tennessee law has led school districts to revisit their policies and in some cases strengthen their screen restrictions. We'll hear what's changing, what experts recommend and go deep at a school that banned phones altogether. Plus it's your turn to talk. Join on air by calling 615-760-2000.Or watch live and join the conversation by commenting on the YouTube live stream.Guests: Camellia Burris, WPLN education reporter Sean Brown, assistant principal at Independence Academy LaTika Alexander, school counselor at Independence Academy Aliyya Swaby, children and families reporter at ProPublica Shani Glapion, parent of student at Antioch High School Further reading Tennessee schools are updating classroom cellphone policies as required by new law (WPLN)

If you've ever wondered what it's really like to live behind bars, any episode of “Ear Hustle” will give you a pretty good idea.It's basically “This American Life” but for the 2 million Americans who are incarcerated – primarily produced by people who are in prison. “Ear Hustle” hosts and co-founders Nigel Poor and Earlonne Woods join us to talk about what they've learned in 15 seasons of podcasting from a prison and highlighting the live show that is coming to Nashville next week. Plus, Plus, we end the hour with the Choosing Justice Initiative (CJI), an org seeking justice in Nashville's criminal legal systemGuests: Nigel Poor, host and co-founder, Ear Hustle Earlonne Woods, host and co-founder, Ear Hustle Erica Duggan, Director of Education and Holistic Advocacy, Choosing Justice Initiative Musa, Court watcher, Choosing Justice Initiative

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused.In our last episode, we learned what happens when the paperwork finally comes through and puzzle pieces start building a hopeful picture.Well, we're taking a couple steps back. Today, our table is staying packed for a Q&A with folks who want to help us remember even when things seem to be going well a lot of last-minute hurdles can stand in the way of an apartment.Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we're learning what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. And we're discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement.This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett.Guests: Lisa Abell, vendor with The Contributor Darrin Bradbury, Founder, The Beat Will Connelly, Executive Director, The Contributor Jane Dimnwaobi, Equal Justice Works Fellow, Tennessee Justice Center Joy Flores, VP of Ministries, Nashville Rescue Mission Olivia Messina, TN Program Lead, Hope for Justice Quatrece McKinney, VP of Programs, Monroe Harding Further listening: Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page on the WPLN website or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify and more.

Tia Sillers has written her fair share of hit songs — most notably, “I Hope You Dance,” performed by Lee Ann Womack.From her beginnings as a songwriter to performing with her husband, she joins us to reflect on her career, her approach to creativity and her relationship with Nashville. We also learn about her personal life and how her husband's death further strengthened her musical expression. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. 

t's not just a one-year budget crisis.Federal support for public media may be a thing of the past. And it's hardly just WPLN at risk. Leaders of public media outlets in Middle Tennessee will be in the studio talking about the immediate impacts and uncertainty that lies ahead. Plus, it's your turn to talk! We're taking your calls, whether it's curiosity or a particular critique, the lines will be open. Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. You can also catch us streaming on YouTube and send your questions through chat!GuestsVal Hoeppner, Executive Director, WMOTMack Linebaugh, Vice President of Audience & Content, Nashville Public RadioBecky Magura, President & CEO, Nashville PBS/WNPTKen Paulson, Dean Emeritus and director, Free Speech Center at the College of Media and Entertainment, MTSUFurther reading and listening Weathering the rescission storm (Nashvillager) How Donald Trump is using legal action against the media (1A) How bipartisan support for public media unraveled in the Trump era (NPR) Community radio stations are collateral damage as Congress cuts NPR funding (NPR) In the West Virginia mountains, a radio station is caught in the funding cut crossfire (NPR) How public broadcasting funding cuts would impact one rural Indiana station (NPR)

As rent in Nashville remains close to its all-time high, some affected tenants rush to court to contest their eviction notices.They may have medical issues, significant personal challenges or legal hurdles, but the same question hangs over each of them: where are they going to go once their lease is up? The Eviction Right to Counsel program is a group of local advocates who have collaborated to provide legal services for tenants in need. In this episode, we'll hear from organizations, those impacted by the rising cost of rent in Nashville, and attorneys who represent landlords. We're also streaming on YouTube!This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.GUESTS:  Elizabeth Leiserson, attorney for Legal Aid Society  Anne Boatner, attorney for Nashville Hispanic Bar Association John Ellis, real estate attorney Remziya Suleyman, director of programs at American Muslim Advisory Council Shannon Wagner, Nashville Conflict Resolution Center  Lisa Wooley, Rooftop Nashville FURTHER LISTENING:  TIN: How mediation solves disputes, including between landlords and renters TIN: Sara Figal, lifetime mediator

Opryland has been closed for nearly 30 years, and as the producer of a new documentary puts it, some people are still “butt hurt” about it. Maybe we didn't know what we had until it left a theme park-size hole in Nashville's heart. A documentary premiering at the Nashville Film Festival, called “A Circle Broken,” gives us a good excuse to reopen that wound and hear the story of Opryland like we've not heard before, a story about how perhaps Opryland saved the Grand Ole Opry itself. We're talking to the characters who are keeping the memory alive and hearing your memories of Opryland USA.Join us on air by calling 615-760-2000.Further reading: "A Circle Broken", premiering at the Nashville Film Festival Opryland VR Nashville Scene: Taking a Look Back at the Rushed 1997 Closure of Opryland Guests: Brandon Vestal David Ewing Bob Whitaker Michael-Demby Cain Jennifer Roberts Lynn Wright Sean Hughes

Pastor Glenda Gleaves Sutton arrived in Nashville with her two sons in tow. She had left a stressful but steady life as an air traffic controller and was on a mission to repair her own family. That effort didn't pan out as quickly as hoped, and left her temporarily homeless. She has since dedicated her life to repairing the families of anyone within the sound of her voice. She's dished out diapers and confronted drug dealers — always stepping out in faith and always in support of others. Her story is all about the power of encouragement and the effectiveness of showing people the way out rather than just telling them.Further reading:• What it's like when an entire Nashville apartment community must move

It's that time again! Time for you to talk with Mayor Freddie O'Connell.Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls! Plus, Last month, an appeals court upheld a state law reducing the Nashville Metro Council from forty members to twenty. Attorney Ben Gastel joins us to discuss the impact of reduced council, the potential Supreme Court case and other lingering questions. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to join the conversation.This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams and Mary ManciniGuests Freddie O'Connell, Mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Ben Gastel, attorney, Herzfeld, Suetholz, Gastel, Leniski and Wall  

When you go to a live show these days, you expect to see a spectacle — an artistic production that will blow you away.Behind the scenes, there's one person responsible for bringing this production to life — the production manager. Today we join with WNXP's Music Citizens podcast to go behind the scenes with Nashville-based production manager, Tori Butash.As a “lady soundguy,” Tori worked her way up doing sound for Rob Thomas, Imagine Dragons and other bands including Sylvan Esso. It was Sylvan Esso who realized Tori was highly organized, a good communicator and, most importantly, a good hang — the perfect ingredients for a production manager.This episode was produced by Justin Barney and Mary Mancini.Guests Tori Butash, Production Manager, (Wilco, Sylvan Esso) Michael Pollard, Production Direction, WNXP Jason Moon Wilkins, Program Director, WNXP Music Citizens is a new podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio about the people who make music work. Each episode will explore what it takes to do the jobs that keep the music business moving and introduce you to the characters who are often well known within their worlds but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Listen to all episodes at wnxp.org.

There is no more tender time than the months, weeks and days before a loved one's passing. More likely than not, hospice care is going to be involved. Still, many people don't fully understand what hospice looks like. So today we're breaking down what you need to know so you'll be a little more prepared when it matters. We'll hear from two Tennesseans who relied on hospice care, both at home and at a care facility, during each of their mother's final days. We'll talk with representatives from hospice agencies in Middle Tennessee and an end-of-life doula about how to prepare for end-of-life care and how to make the most of it. And we'll discuss the grief services hospice providers offer during the months following a loved one's passing.In our monthly series NEXT AGE, we're having conversations about growing older — and efforts to reframe aging in a way that helps all of us. Our show is made possible, in part, by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration.This episode was produced by Katherine Ruppelt.GUESTS: Tiffany Johnson, Caregiver for mom who passed on hospice Chuck Cardona, Caregiver for mom who passed on hospice Dr. Martha Presley Tran, Alive, Chief Medical Officer,  Meredith Portwood, Heartn' Soul Hospice, Community Education Representative Bre Clark,  End-of-life doula, hospice volunteer Ali Drescher, Alive, Sr. Director of Mission Based Services Further Listening:The Cost Of Dying: Modern Death Hits Home For A Health Care Reporter

Candice Lee is a Vanderbilt Commodore through and through.In the late 90's and early aughts, she played for the women's basketball team. She endured injuries but never quit. After her playing days were over she moved to the administration side of sports. Also earning a PhD from the university. Today, we learn what it's like to get inside the mind of an athletic director for a school in the most powerful athletic conference in the country.

The school voucher debate has been raging in Tennessee for almost two decades...but it was just this year the Tennessee State Legislature successfully passed a law creating a statewide program. The Education Freedom Scholarship Act will provide 20,000 eligible students with about $7,300 per year in public school funds to use for private school tuition. So far, nearly 40,000 families have applied for the program.Today we ask: now that the school voucher horse is out of the barn...what's next? How does the program actually work? What guardrails are in place to ensure the program complies with the law? What's worked in other states — and is it possible to improve the program? These are today's questions...AND it's also your turn to talk. Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation — or join us live streaming on YouTube and pop a question into the chat.Guests Dr. Felipe Barrera-Osorio, Associate professor of public policy, education, and economics, Peabody College Camellia Burris, Education Reporter, WPLN News Chelsea Crawford, Executive Director, TennesseeCAN Logan Key, parent Further reading and listening Tennessee legislature puts hundreds of millions toward private-school vouchersHouse, Senate narrowly pass governor's initiative (Tennessee Lookout) Students across Tennessee can now apply for the expanded school voucher program (WPLN) Tennessee governor defends voucher application process; Gov. Bill Lee says enrollment history not required or needed (Tennessee Lookout)

In 1960s Southern California, a movement called "Kustom Kulture" emerged. Its mission: restore and refurbish cars. Since then, thousands across America have had their own vehicles customized.On today's show, we speak with local builders, musicians, and enthusiasts about their Kustom Kulture, how it helps people express themselves creatively, and the outlook of the community today.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. GUESTS: Tim & Carrie Strange — Strange Motion Murpho & Kollette Marie — NashSpeedDonald Walker — Local hot rod enthusiastJane Rose — Rockabilly singer, Jane Rose and the Deadends

Today we're talking with identical twins who live here in Middle Tennessee - including two who work at the same local police department- to learn about how their unique connection has shaped their lives. We'll also speak with the parent and a spouse of identical twins to learn about how they love the twins closest to them. It's going to be a double fun hour. Join us!This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Katherine Ruppelt.Guests: Sergeant Kyle Neal, identical twin Sergeant Matt Neal, identical twin Kenzie, identical twin Kyndall, identical twin Courtney Oertel, wife of an identical twin Jada Mathews, mother of identical twins Further Reading: Music City Multiples| Organization that provides community and support for parents of multiples WKRN | Seeing double: Meet Nolensville's identical twins fighting crime together

For many people, getting involved in your community is something they would like to do — but don't have much time to do.For Tequila Johnson, though, community is a calling. Today we sit down with an entrepreneur, mom, and the co-founder of The Equity Alliance to talk about her life and how her philosophy on humanity is evolving. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona and Liv Lombardi

For over three decades Kurdish refugees have found a safe place to land in America.The latest wave of Kurds is arriving from Turkey – fleeing political repression and nationalist hate groups. But today, they're coming to a very different America. It's an America in turmoil. A place where immigrants are increasingly seen as enemies within, to be rooted out and sent back to where they came from.The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance.But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they'll go to make it real.Series Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio's Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

When a wave of Kurdish refugees came to Nashville, they quickly got to work.They opened businesses and raised their kids. As those kids grew up, they had to figure out how to navigate the world of a first-generation Kurdish-American teenager. And in that world, something new was forming — something that threatened to tarnish the sterling reputation their parents worked hard to build.The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance.But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they'll go to make it real.Guest: Meribah Knight, editor and co-producer of the podcastSeries Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio's Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

Revealing all this family lost to war and displacement. But also, what they are determined to reclaim and rebuild.The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance.But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they'll go to make it real.Guest:Dilman Yasin, cultural advisor of the podcastSeries Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio's Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

We dive headlong into one family's migration odyssey from Iraqi Kurdistan to Nashville.To really understand what this family — and so many others — were fleeing from, we need to go back to one terrible, pivotal day in 1988. And to do that, we need to go to Kurdistan.The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance.But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they'll go to make it real.Guest Rose Gilbert, host and reporter of the podcastSeries Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio's Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

Science and religion are in a constant state of friction. But 100 years ago, that friction flared into a firestorm in Tennessee.In 1925, John Scopes, a 24-year-old high school science teacher in Dayton, decided to teach human evolution to his students even though the state had just outlawed it. He was put on trial, and Dayton was the center of international attention. Today, the impacts of what became known as the “Monkey Trial” are still rippling 100 years later. Plus, were you taught evolution in high school? Do you believe in creationism or evolution? Or both? The phone lines are open to take your calls.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests Wesley Roberts, retired Metro Nashville Public School teacher, native Nashvillian. Dr. Antonis Rokas, Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair of Biological Science and the Founding Director of the Evolutionary Studies Initiative at Vanderbilt University. Sophie Badgett, former biology student at Hume Fogg Links Scopes 100, Scopes Centennial Celebration, Dayton, TN Scopes “Monkey” Trial Centennial Symposium, Vanderbilt University

Do you want to live to 100 or longer?  It's possible and could be commonplace within the next couple of decades. The new longevity requires serious money moves to have financial security for a long lifespan.The 100-Year-Opportunity is here, according to researchers at the Stanford Center on Longevity. They've also developed a guide for leading a quality, thriving life as we live longer called The Map of Life.  An important feature is creating new concepts, policies and services for longterm financial security, starting at birth.In our monthly series NEXT AGE, we're having conversations about growing older and efforts to reframe aging in a way that helps all of us. This episode explores innovative programs like like RESET (Raising Economic Security to Enjoy Thriving), a free service offered by AgeWell Middle Tennessee and United Way of Greater Nashville.We also discussing options for older adults to hae housing security and affordability. A huge majority of people 50+ (75%) say they want to live in their own homes as they grow older, according to AARP.  We'll look at unique ways some local adults who want to “age in place” are making that affordable. 

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused.In our last episode, we discussed how providers support folks in limbo while they're waiting on application responses and hear how people cope in this liminal spaceIn this episode, our guests fill us in on what happens when the paperwork finally comes through and puzzle pieces start building a hopeful picture.Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we're learning what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. And we're discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement.This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett.Guests: Alyssa Fernandez, director of permanent housing, Oasis Center Abdikadir Mohamed, Senior Rapid Rehousing Case Manager, Safe Haven Family Shelter Brandon Battle, housing stability guide, The Contributor Kipp Ochsner, resident at The Village at Glencliff Jesse Call, resident care manager at The Village at Glencliff Linda Bailey, co-editor of The Contributor

Charles William Ashworth is Charlie Peacock. And vice versa.Encouraged to move to Nashville in late eighties, Charlie steadily built a stellar career. As a songwriter, producer and industry executive, he won six Grammy Awards. His writing credits include two multi-platinum songs, “Every Heartbeat” by Amy Grant and “In the Light” by DC Talk. His production and development credits include The Civil Wars, The Lone Bellow and Switchfoot. And let's not forget he's also a jazz musician. It's no wonder Billboard named hime one of the 500 most important producers in pop music history.Now Charlie has written a memoir. Roots & Rhythm: A Life in Music is deeply contemplative, weaving together stories of ancestry, faith, personal growth and, of course, music. This conversation with Khalil Ekulona goes deep!This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

It's that time again! Time for you to talk with Mayor Freddie O'Connell.Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls! Plus, we celebrate sixty years of Nashville's Metro Human Relations Commission with current executive director, Reverend Davie Tucker, Jr.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests Freddie O'Connell, Mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Rev. Davie Tucker, Jr., executive director, Metro Human Relations Commission Further reading Nashville's next city budget includes a substantial tax increase (WPLN) How Metro was made (Nashvillager podcast)

One thing is true. What goes up must go down. That goes for relationships, that basketball you like to play with and even the city of Nashville.Recently, a study indicated Nashville is experiencing subsidence — or in simpler terms, the surface level is sinking. Experts continue to debate whether this phenomenon has any urgency. To shed light, we have geologists joining us to talk about what risks subsidence may pose, what causes it and how much human interaction comes into play. We're also talking about what else is going on underneath our cowboy boots so Olivia Hill with Metro Council and Lipscomb Professor Monica Sartain join our panel to share how energy is transferred through tunnels and pipes and how infrastructure gets us to where we need to go.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Special thanks to Caroline Eggers and Tony Gonzalez. GUESTS: Manoochehr Shirzaei — Professor of Geophysics, Virginia Tech Olivia Hill — Nashville Metro Council at-large Monica Sartain — Associate Professor of Civil Engineering, Lipscomb University Michael Zoccola — retired Geotechnical Engineer, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Nashville District)

Bob Clement's life has been a fascinating one.At 29, he became the youngest Tennessean elected to statewide office, a title he still holds today. After his time at the PSA, President Jimmy Carter tapped him for a spot on the board of Tennessee Valley Authority. In the late eighties, he ran and won the congressional race for the 5th district. He served for eight years. Now, as the Board President Emeritus of the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum in Dickson, he protects and curates the legacy of his father, Governor Frank G. Clement. Congressman Clement joins us today  share stories about his life and the extraordinary people he's met along the way. Plus he examine his father's legacy and ruminates on the state of politics and civil discourse today.

Like it or not, it's snake season.They eat rats, mice and moles. Some good snakes even eat "bad" ones! They help keep lakes and rivers clean. Their venom has been used to treat diseases from high blood pressure to cancer. Whether it's a harmless corn snake or a coiled-up copperhead — rarely are they a welcome sight. But knowledge is power, so we're taking on local herpetology! And we're doing it together. Bring us your questions on air.Whenever it's Your Turn to Talk, call 615-760-2000 between noon and 1pm to join the conversation.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests Michael Meister, Natural Resource Manager, Tennessee State Parks Dr. Brian Miller. Biology Professor, MTSU Lindsey Patel, Snake Education Expert and Tennessee Snake Identification and Education Facebook Group Lisa Powers, Founding President of the Tennessee Herpetological Society Further Reading To the Rattlesnake by Vaida Stewart Montgomery - poem read by a caller A Guide to Snakes of Middle Tennessee (PDF), Dr. Brian Miller, MTSU Tennessee Snake IDentification and Education group (Facebook) Think twice before killing snakes this summer as it's illegal in Tennessee (NewsChannel 5)

Last month, rural Tennesseans, Hollywood actors and a live studio audience in New York City came together. On the agenda were issues that bind us.Theater of War is a New York theater company that "presents community-specific, theater-based projects that address pressing public health and social issues." Recently, they approached WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger with a fascinating opportunity. Today we bring you the result – an esteemed group of Hollywood actors reading “In Rural Tennessee, Domestic Violence Victims Face Barriers to Getting Justice. One County Has Transformed Its Approach.” The piece, written by Paige Pfleger for WPLN and ProPublica, is read in its entirety. What follows is a post-performance conversation between people from one of Tennessee's most rural areas and the audience in New York City.This episode was produced by Theater of War Productions, Liv Lombardi and Paige PflegerActors Debra Winger (Terms of Endearment, Urban Cowboy) Josh Hamilton (Eighth Grade, The Walking Dead) Daphne Rubin-Vega (In the Heights, Only Murders in the Building) Bill Irwin (Interstellar, Rachel Getting Married).

We're sailing over to Nashville's waterfront. Percy Priest is a local's lake — and the experiences there are as diverse as the growing communities surrounding it. We're sharing stories about the land, the water and the wildlife. And we're opening the phone lines to hear your stories! (Extra credit if you call in while on the water.)Situated between Nashville International Airport, Mt. Juliet and Smyrna, Percy Priest is a man-made reservoir dotted with nearly 40 islands. Rarely a tourist destination, and lacking a well-funded “friends” group, it's still loved by many. Join us for the short trip to the shores of this lake today! GUESTS: Sean Wlodarczyk, Nashville Rowing Club president Gretchen Abernathy, camper Derhat Mohammed, angler FURTHER READING & BROWSING: Nashville Rowing Club Percy Priest Yacht Club The Tennessean | How one man caught 76.5-pound buffalo fish at Percy Priest Lake in Nashville WPLN | This Tennessee camp creates space for grief — and joy — for children who have lost a loved one

Growing up as an Arab-American woman in rural Waverly — and traveling for her career — have shaped Samar Ali's life as a peacemaker.Her journey includes stops at Vanderbilt University, the Supreme Court of South Africa, the White House, and eventually back to her home state. Along the way, she has faced and overcome personal attacks. It's all fueled her longing for unity and justice. Now, through her nonprofit Millions of Conversations, Ali works to create a future where every American feels safe and free to be themselves. In this episode, we explore how her life and career guide her mission to heal division.Further reading Q&A: International conflict expert talks Israel-Hamas war, civilian casualties, and the inevitability of peace (WPLN) Middle Tennessee's shifting media landscape (This is Nashville) Millions of Conversations: The Show (Newschannel 5)

Fifty-seven percent of the mayor's recommended budget for next year comes from property taxes. Another almost twenty percent comes from local sales tax.But what are the other funding sources? And what does the budget cover? On today's episode we cover many of the details of the proposed $3.8 billion spending plan — how the money's allocated, how metro departments request increases, and the difference between the operating budget and the Capital Improvements Budget. It's your money, so join us!Whenever it's Your Turn to Talk, call 615-760-2000 between noon and 1pm to join the conversation.Guests Councilmember Delishia Porterfield, Chair, Nashville Metro Council's Budget and Finance Committee Mary Jo Wiggins, Deputy Director of the Metro Finance Department Austin Hornbostel, Metro Reporter, Tennessean Dr. Murat Arik, Director, Business and Economic Research Center (BERC), Middle Tennessee State University Further reading Citizens' Guide to the Metro Budget Nashville mayor outlines priorities — and a tax increase — in State of Metro speech (WPLN) Mayor O'Connell explains 26% tax increase, spending priorities as budget season gets going (Tennessean) With Nashville budget debate looming, some on council may lobby for lower property taxes(Tennessean) Judge orders Trump administration to release frozen grants, including $14M for Nashville(Tennessean) 

Every year, thousands enter the temple in Nashville's Parthenon to view the nearly 42-foot statue of Athena.But this year, she turns 35 years young. The Greek goddess of warfare and wisdom, carved out of gypsum cement, took eight years to complete. On today's show, we chat with the sculptor behind the deity, Alan LeQuire, to hear about his process. Plus, we learn about his new exhibition, Monumental Figures. Parthenon Museum Curator Jennifer Richardson joins the panel along with Parthenon Director of Education Helen Sanders.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Mary Mancini. GUESTS Alan LeQuire, Sculptor — LeQuire Gallery. Helen Sanders — Parthenon Director of Education Jennifer Richardson — Parthenon Museum Curator

Across cultures, rites of passage often honor a transition from one cycle of life to another. On today's show, three Nashvillians share their own experiences and how it felt entering a new stage of life. From performing a bat mitzvah to living as a Buddhist monk — and even undergoing a "croning" — each of these ceremonies left an impact on our guests. Join us as we learn how different cultures mark these milestones.This episode was produced by Char Daston and Josh Deepan. GUESTS: Zoe Sparks — Hume Fogg '29 Debi Young — Interfaith Celebrant Stefanie Kisselburg — Administrative Professional Don Srisuryo — MTSU Student Engagement Coordinator

For over two decades, native Tennessean Maryam Abolfazli has been a leader in economic development and the nonprofit sector.Then in 2023, she became a leading voice among gun safety organizers after the Covenant School shooting tragedy. So much so that she ran for Congress in 2024. Today we sit down with Abolfazli to learn what it's like to run for office at the federal level and what single-parenting in the modern world is like for her. Plus, as founder of the non-profit Rise and Shine TN, she shares her thoughts about the future of her city, state, and country.Further Reading Maryam Abolfazli encourages hope, love in time of ‘bitter anger' (WPLN) Opinion: Meet Maryam Abolfazli, Democratic nominee for Tennessee U.S. House, District 5 (Tennessean) Nashvillians of the Year: The Gun Safety Advocates (Nashville Scene)

The Nashville-based country music industry has been slow to truly embrace the impact of the wide array of Latine artists actively making country music both here and around the world.To speed things along, a new generation of locals are working together to form supportive communities and organizations. On today's episode we hear from musicians and advocates who organize support for one another both publicly and behind the scenes. Plus, we explore how Freddy Fender, an early pioneer of Latine country, influenced the industry and helped build a foundation for the next generation.This episode was produced by Jewly Hight and Mary Mancini.Guests Louie TheSinger, Country music artist Jackie Marushka, Founder of the Hispanic Entertainment Alliance and Marushka Media Andrea Vasquez, Country artist, Co-founder of Country Latin Association, and host of the Latina in Nashville podcast Veronique Medrano, singer-songwriter and archivist/preservationist Further Reading and Listening Angie K blends her El Salvadoran roots and Nashville savvy in her new EP and the Country Latin Association (WPLN) Tracing the history of Latino artists making country music (WPLN) The case for Freddy Fender's induction as first Hispanic member of Country Music Hall of Fame (Texas Standard)  

Let's talk about the C-word: Caregiving. In this episode, we continue our monthly series, NEXT AGE, with stories of people who are caring for an older adult relative. If you're thinking "who cares?" —  this might make you feel differently:According to a report from the National Alliance for Caregiving, for every five people you know, at least one of them is caring for a family member and even more are caring for more than one relative. They are unpaid — often unseen and sacrificing well-being, finances and identity.Caregiving is now a universal experience impacting every age, gender, socioeconomic and racial or ethnic group. In the words of the late former first lady Rosalyn Carter: “There are only four kinds of people in the world:Those who have been caregivers.Those who are currently caregivers.Those who will be caregivers,And those who will need a caregiver.” It can be a rewarding experience; but it can also be a physical, financial and emotional struggle.This episode will share stories of local people caring for an older adult relative. We'll hear from aging advocates about services and support systems for family caregivers, learn about options for longterm care allowing people to age at home, and we'll find out the latest research on strategies for coping and finding well-being.Our show is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration.This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner.GUESTS: Kenya Watkins, Family Caregiver Tiffany Cloud-Mann, Eldercare Coach/AgeWell Middle Tennessee Keri Pagetta, Sandwich Generation caregiver Dr. Feylyn Lewis, Caregiving Researcher / Dean of Student Affairs, Vanderbilt  University School of Nursing William Zagorski, Executive Director / Centennial Adultcare Center

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused.Many people experiencing homelessness have to overcome hurdles to access services and housing. In our last episode, we discussed the time tax of filling out redundant paperwork. Once that paperwork is filled out and submitted, people are still unhoused. Today we talk about what happens during that waiting period. We will discuss with our guests how providers work with people while they are in limbo about whether, when, and where they will be able to access housing, and we'll hear how people feel about this waiting period.Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we're learning about what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. We're discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement.This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett and Tasha AF Lemley. Further listening: Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page on the WPLN website or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify and more.

Tennessee put a hold on executions in 2022 due to concerns about its lethal injection protocol. This morning, the state resumed executions, using lethal injection to put to death Oscar Franklin Smith. He had spent more than three decades incarcerated and went through numerous execution dates. Today on the show, we speak with one of Smith's sons, Casey Smith, about the impact this crime — and its punishment — have had on his life.But first, WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger joins us to report on today's latest developments.Today's episode was produced by Paige Pfleger and Tasha A.F. Lemley.GUESTS Paige Pfleger, WPLN Criminal Justice Reporter Casey Smith, son of Oscar Franklin Smith

On today's show, we speak with experts in the fields of dialect coaching and sociolinguistics to learn the cultural and scientific aspects of what we call an “accent.” We'll also hear from people who have moved to America and worked to change the way they sound. And we want to hear from you, too! So call into the show and talk about your own speech patterns. Do you think you have an accent? Have you been judged because of how you sound? Tell us your stories and toss us your questions. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Liv Lombardi. GUESTS:  Richard Morris, PhD — MTSU Professor of Spanish and Linguistics Javaneh Hemmat — Owner, Hummus Chick (Instagram — @hummuschick) Erik Singer — Actor, Dialect Coach (Instagram — @eriksinger)

For sixteen years Giancarlo Guerrero has captivated audiences with his charismatic conducting — all while championing the works of prominent American composers and winning multiple GRAMMY Awards. This weekend, Guerrero's tenure as Music Director at the Nashville Symphony comes to a close. On today's episode, he joins us to talk about his life, his work and, of course, the music.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini, Nina Cardona and Char Daston.GUESTS Giancarlo Guerrero, Conductor and Music Director, Nashville SymphonyFURTHER READING Nashville Symphony music director Giancarlo Guerrero will step down (WPLN) Nashville Moment: Giancarlo Guerrero (Nashville Lifestyles)

GRAMMY winner Béla Fleck has taken the art of playing the banjo to stellar heights. He's here to share about his journey playing music professionally for more than 50 years — and about his latest album, BEATrio, which dropped last week. Fleck has amassed a career playing the banjo for audiences all over the world as well as with legendary musicians. Most recently, he's teamed up with musicians Edmar Castañeda and Antonio Sánchez for BEATrio. Today, we're talking about this latest project and ask what he has learned on his journey through life. Join us!This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona.GUEST: Béla Fleck, musician

Nashville's non-profit film center The Belcourt Theatre turns one hundred this month and there's no denying its long and positive impact on this city.Over the course of a century, The Belcourt has been many different things including a stage for the Grand Ole Opry, a silent film house and a community playhouse for children's theatre. Join us today as we explore celebrations planned for this impressive and notable milestone, the highs and lows of its history, how it became the independent film industry powerhouse it is today.This episode was produced by Justin Barney and Mary Mancini.Guests Stephanie Silverman, Executive Director, The Belcourt Theatre Teddy Minton, Public Historian and Archivist, The Belcourt Theatre Tom Wills, Community Volunteer