Podcasts about local matters

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers sits down with Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter for an in-depth look at the county's newly approved fiscal year budget. They break down how the certified tax rate was calculated following the countywide property reappraisal, why the budget was approved without a tax increase, and what it means for property owners across Putnam County. The conversation also explores the county's long-term financial strategy, including debt reduction, employee retention, capital improvement planning, and major projects such as the new Putnam County Expo Center, fairgrounds, transportation facility, and highway department. Mayor Porter also discusses the county's strong financial position, future growth, and the importance of planning ahead to meet the needs of one of Tennessee's fastest-growing regions. The episode concludes with a heartfelt reflection on public service as Ben and Mayor Porter look back on more than a decade of working together to help shape the future of Putnam County. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Cliff Venters and Erika Campbell of the Cookeville Fire Department join Drs. Mabry and Lee to speak on the various mental health initiatives they have to help the community. From how the fire department acts in the field to help others, to the impact a call can have on a patient's well-being, they detail everything. What mental health resources are available in the area, and how can anyone access them? Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Education, Sports, Faith & Everything In Between Originating from News Talk 94.1 the show deals with community issues and interests that affect listeners closer to home. With topics from major events across the nation and how they impact our area to interesting people and figures from across the Upper Cumberland. Local Matters is where local, matters. Covering the issues that matter to you. Every weekday. News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, owners of Meg's Bread Meghan Borland & Luke Yoder join Tiffany Anton to shine a light on the business! They tell their story of how they got into the business, sharing how despite the waves being choppy, they were still able to successfully navigate it. They detail what's to come for the business, how they plan on expanding, and what loyal customers can continue to expect from them despite the new expansions/changes. Finally, they end off by detailing their upcoming cafeteria location in the Appalachian Center for Crafts! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Laura Clemons joins George Halford to highlight local Cookeville history and storytelling. She begins by speaking about her journey as a writer at Tennessee Tech, and how she found a passion for history along the way. She ends off by detailing the books she has written and highlights the upcoming projects she has written about the Cookeville area's rich history. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host George Halford welcomes writer, researcher, and local historian Laura Clemons for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, history, and the people who have shaped the Upper Cumberland. Laura reflects on her journey from growing up in Florida to finding a lifelong home in Cookeville, where a passion for writing and history led to a distinguished career documenting the stories of Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, and the region's most influential people and institutions. The discussion explores the lasting impact of Tennessee Tech's visionary presidents, the importance of preserving local history, and how stories connect generations while helping communities understand both their past and their future. Laura also shares the inspiration behind her newest book, Same Church, Different Pews, which tells the remarkable true story of an unlikely friendship between Tennessee Tech music pioneer Charles Faulkner Bryan and gifted young gospel singer Robert Bradley—a relationship that reflects the power of music to bridge cultural divides and shape the American musical tradition. It's an inspiring conversation about history, heritage, and the enduring value of preserving the stories that define the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers sits down with Overton County Executive Stephen Barlow for a candid conversation reflecting on his four years of public service and the projects that have shaped the future of Overton County. Barlow discusses the challenges of attracting new businesses, including his efforts to recruit a grocery store and hotel, while highlighting major accomplishments such as the county's new Health Department, community center projects, and investments in infrastructure that will serve residents for years to come. The conversation also explores county budgeting, employee recruitment and retention, improving public services, and the realities of leading a growing rural community. As his term comes to a close, Barlow shares personal reflections on public service, the sacrifices that come with elected office, and his hope that the foundation laid over the past four years will continue to benefit Overton County for generations to come. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In part two of this special Local Matters episode, Drs. Mabry and Lee are once again joined by Dr. Ernie Buchanan of Upper Cumberland Family Practice and Lincoln Memorial University medical student Peter Richards to continue separating fact from fiction on today's biggest health and wellness trends. This episode shifts the focus to the fitness gadgets, recovery techniques, wearable technology, and viral health hacks that are dominating social media. Together, they examine the science behind trends including mouth taping, weighted walking, cold plunges, vibration plates, smart rings, electrolyte supplements, detox products, and other popular wellness claims while discussing what actually works—and what simply doesn't. The conversation also explores the value of walking, strength training, quality sleep, and how to identify trustworthy medical information in an era of artificial intelligence and online influencers. Combining humor with evidence-based guidance, Part Two helps listeners cut through the hype and focus on practical habits that truly support long-term health and wellness. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Tiffany Anton welcomes Tyler Buck, owner and operator of the Cookeville and Algood Baskin-Robbins locations, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, and building a business with purpose. Tyler shares how a part-time job scooping ice cream as a teenager turned into becoming the youngest person to purchase a Baskin-Robbins franchise, and how he's reimagined the iconic brand through creative ideas like drive-thru service, innovative store designs, online ordering, and customer-focused experiences. The discussion also explores his passion for giving back to the Upper Cumberland, why community impact is more important than traditional advertising, and how he has built a culture of generosity by partnering with local nonprofits and schools throughout the year. Tyler also offers a glimpse into his vision for future locations, proving that entrepreneurship is about more than growing a business—it's about creating places that bring people together and leave a lasting impact on the community. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, hear from Dr. Kristen Trent as she details why teaching literacy is so important. She explains what the 2+2 Program is, what purpose it serves in the local community, and the integral role the Literacy Association of Tennessee plays in helping the next generation reach literacy. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host George Halford welcomes longtime Cookeville High School Career and Technical Education instructor Randy Mansell for a conversation about the life-changing impact of skilled trades and workforce education. Drawing from decades of experience in construction, farming, and the classroom, Mansell reflects on his journey from working alongside his father in the family construction business to inspiring generations of students to pursue rewarding careers in the trades. The discussion explores the growing demand for skilled workers, the evolution of career and technical education, and the opportunities available to young people who choose apprenticeships and hands-on professions. Mansell also shares stories of former students who have gone on to build successful careers, explains the importance of strong work ethic and reliability, and offers his perspective on how technology and artificial intelligence will shape—but never replace—the need for skilled craftspeople. It's an encouraging conversation about education, opportunity, and why the Upper Cumberland continues to be a place where hard work, practical skills, and community relationships can build a successful future. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers welcomes Maxine Frazier, director of the Cookeville Senior Center, for an inspiring conversation about creating opportunities that help older adults remain active, connected, and engaged. Drawing on a lifetime of service as an educator, court reporter, school board member, and community leader, Frazier shares how the Senior Center has grown into a hub of innovation, offering everything from Rock Steady Boxing for individuals with Parkinson's disease and programs for those who are blind or visually impaired to fitness classes, music therapy, art, travel, and lifelong learning. The discussion highlights how creativity, grant funding, and community partnerships have transformed the center into one of Tennessee's most unique senior programs, while also addressing the challenges seniors face with isolation, accessibility, and affordability. It's an uplifting conversation about compassion, inclusion, and the power of building a community where every person has the opportunity to thrive at every stage of life. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, Drs. Mabry and Lee are joined by licensed professional counselor Abby Fowler of Wildly Curative Counseling for an encouraging conversation about helping children navigate big emotions and build emotional resilience. Abby explains why feelings like frustration, disappointment, anxiety, and anger are a normal part of childhood development, and how parents can help children recognize, express, and manage those emotions in healthy ways. The discussion explores the growing influence of social media on children's confidence and self-esteem, the importance of allowing children to experience setbacks and disappointment, and practical strategies parents can use to respond calmly during emotional outbursts. Abby also shares why modeling emotional regulation is one of the most powerful tools parents have, discusses the value of early counseling intervention, and offers simple, practical techniques families can begin using today to raise emotionally healthy, confident, and resilient children. It's a thoughtful and reassuring episode filled with practical advice for parents, caregivers, and anyone who plays an important role in a child's life. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Tiffany Anton welcomes Heidi Clopton, founder of the Dream Cooperative, for an inspiring conversation about creating opportunities for individuals with special needs and strengthening the Upper Cumberland through collaboration. Heidi shares how nearly three decades as an occupational therapist inspired her to launch the nonprofit after recognizing the need for meaningful programs, life skills, and community connections for teens and adults after they leave the school system. Together, they discuss the Dream Cooperative's innovative classes in cooking, music, art, wellness, and job readiness, while exploring the importance of helping individuals discover their passions, build independence, and develop skills for everyday life. The conversation also highlights the value of community partnerships, volunteerism, and inclusive employment, as well as Heidi's long-term vision of expanding the Dream Cooperative throughout rural Tennessee so more families can access the resources, relationships, and support they need. It's an uplifting episode about servant leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Dr. Jennifer Meadows joins Jeremy Wendt on this episode of the Local Matters podcast to highlight STEM. She details her journey working in STEM centers and STEM education, covering a variety of initiatives she began such as the lending library and her STEM Teacher Program. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host George Halford welcomes Upper Cumberland Development District historian Mark Dudley for a fascinating journey through the people, places, and events that have shaped the Upper Cumberland. Drawing on a lifetime of studying the region's past, Dudley shares how growing up in Jackson County, a family rooted in storytelling, and a passion for history led him to preserve the area's rich heritage. The conversation explores everything from Daniel Boone, the Civil War, and the Revolutionary War to the region's musical traditions, scenic byways, and the cultural landmarks that continue to define local communities. Dudley also explains why preserving historic sites, celebrating local stories, and investing in heritage tourism are essential to the region's future, highlighting projects such as White Plains, Granville, the Walton Road Scenic Byway, and other landmarks that connect the Upper Cumberland to America's larger story. It's an engaging conversation that reminds listeners how understanding the past helps shape a stronger future for generations to come. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers welcomes Cumberland County EMS Director Chris Miller for an inside look at the challenges and responsibilities of leading one of the region's most critical public safety agencies. Miller discusses how Emergency Medical Services responds to more than 15,000 calls each year, the impact of seasonal emergencies such as heat-related illnesses and increased traffic accidents, and the importance of staying prepared to serve the community around the clock. The conversation also takes listeners behind the scenes of county government, explaining how ambulance services are funded, the realities of medical billing and insurance reimbursements, and the significant costs associated with staffing, equipment, and maintaining a modern EMS fleet. Chris also shares his perspective on recruiting and retaining the next generation of first responders, building a strong workplace culture, and why investing in people is just as important as investing in technology. It's an informative conversation that provides a greater appreciation for the professionals who answer the call when every second matters. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, Drs. Mabry and Lee welcome psychiatric mental health nurse Nikki Taylor for an insightful discussion about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across every stage of life. Together they explore how ADHD extends far beyond childhood, why more adults are receiving diagnoses than ever before, and how symptoms can present differently in children, teens, and adults. Nikki explains common misconceptions surrounding ADHD, the connection between emotional regulation and executive functioning, and why understanding behaviors rather than simply reacting to them can make a meaningful difference for families. The conversation also introduces practical, evidence-based strategies—including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques, grounding exercises, and emotional regulation skills—that parents, caregivers, and adults living with ADHD can begin using immediately. It's an informative and encouraging episode that offers listeners a deeper understanding of ADHD while providing practical tools to help individuals and families navigate everyday challenges with greater confidence and compassion. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Tiffany Anton welcomes Luke Ramey of the Biz Foundry for a preview of the second annual Small Business & Entrepreneurship (SBE) Conference, one of the Upper Cumberland's premier events for entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders. Luke shares what attendees can expect from this year's conference, including nationally recognized keynote speaker Liz Bohannon, practical breakout sessions focused on marketing, artificial intelligence, finance, and legal topics, and valuable networking opportunities designed to help entrepreneurs at every stage of business. The conversation explores why investing time to work on your business is essential for long-term success, while highlighting how the Biz Foundry continues to support entrepreneurs through coaching, education, and community connections. Whether you're launching your first business, growing an established company, or simply exploring a new idea, this episode offers practical insights into the resources and relationships that are helping shape the future of entrepreneurship across the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host George Halford welcomes Cookeville criminal defense attorney, ordained pastor, and author Brett Knight for a deeply personal conversation about faith, addiction, redemption, and second chances. Brett shares his remarkable journey from growing up in poverty, serving in the military, and building a successful legal career to discovering a calling that transformed both his profession and his purpose. Together, George and Brett discuss the devastating impact addiction has on individuals, families, and entire communities, while exploring the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding recovery and addressing the underlying pain that often fuels substance abuse. Brett also reflects on the mentors who changed the course of his life, the lessons that inspired his book From Gavel to Grace, and why he believes hope, healing, and restoration are possible for anyone willing to take the first step. It's a powerful conversation about compassion, personal transformation, and the life-changing impact one person can have when they choose to invest in others. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers sits down with Cookeville Police Chief Scott Winfrey for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, community policing, and the future of public safety in one of Tennessee's fastest-growing cities. Chief Winfrey reflects on his journey from growing up in Baxter to a decades-long career with the Cookeville Police Department, sharing how his experiences have shaped his approach to serving the community. The discussion explores the department's new police headquarters, recruiting and training the next generation of officers, expanded traffic enforcement efforts, and the importance of proactive policing to improve roadway safety. Chief Winfrey also highlights community outreach initiatives including the Citizens Police Academy and Tennessee Tech partnership that are helping build trust and inspire future law enforcement professionals. It's an insightful conversation about balancing growth, investing in people, and maintaining the strong relationships that continue to make Cookeville one of the safest and most connected communities in the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Tick-borne illnesses are becoming an increasingly important health concern across Tennessee, especially in the Upper Cumberland, where outdoor recreation is part of everyday life. In this episode of Local Matters, Family Nurse Practitioner Michelle Kumm joins for an in-depth discussion on the growing risks associated with tick bites. They explore the warning signs, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, and Alpha-gal syndrome. Michelle also explains why Tennessee has become a hotspot for tick-borne diseases, offers practical prevention tips for families, and shares expert guidance on when to seek medical attention after a tick bite. As the author of Ticked Off: From Bite to Diagnosis and an advocate for Alpha-gal awareness, Michelle provides valuable, evidence-based information to help listeners better protect themselves and their loved ones while enjoying the outdoors. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Brian and Bridget Jones share the story of how a multi-generation family cattle farm evolved into one of the Upper Cumberland's most unique agritourism destinations. What began with a lifelong dream of raising Highland cattle has grown into Mill Creek Farms, where visitors experience agriculture in a hands-on way while learning about livestock, conservation, and the realities of modern farming. The couple discusses balancing traditional beef production with agritourism, preserving family farmland for future generations, mentoring new farmers, and finding creative ways to keep agriculture both sustainable and profitable in today's changing world. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode of The Journal Podcast, following on from the Network Conference 2026, we speak to Laura Scott, President of the Insurance Institute of Sheffield, Andy Brown, President of the Insurance Institute of Ipswich, Suffolk & North Essex, and Kayleigh Penwill, former president of the Insurance Institute of Bolton, about their experiences at this year's conference, the great networking opportunities it provided and the work the Local Institutes provide for their members.

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

Please enjoy this Express Sessions while Behind The Headlines is off. This was recorded live on January 15, 2026 and has been edited for time and conciseness. An unedited version can be found here.The "Local Matters" series was a special five-part set of Express Sessions events. Sewer district expansion, environmental concerns and downtown business were the main topics at the Westhampton Beach conversation.

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Jeremy Wendt is joined by Jackie Vesper, CTE Supervisor in Putnam County, to discuss how CTE is helping to connect students to career pathways. She talks about her journey to Cookeville, how she found a love for education, and what she has enjoyed most about her job. Jackie also speaks on programs like work-based learning, which allows students to work, intern, and even job-shadow during school days. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Please enjoy this Express Sessions while Behind The Headlines is off. This was recorded live on December 20, 2025 and has been edited for time and conciseness. An unedited version can be found here.The "Local Matters" series, a special five-part set of Express Sessions events, continued on November 20 at Cowfish.

Please enjoy this Express Sessions while Behind The Headlines is off. This was recorded live on December 11, 2025 and has been edited for time and conciseness. An unedited version can be found here.The "Local Matters" series, a special five-part set of Express Sessions events, continued on December 11 with a luncheon panel discussion in Amagansett at Rowdy Hall. The conversation focused on issues of direct consequence to East Hampton Village, East Hampton Town and its environs, and the panel included both town and village leaders. Topics were chosen by the community. As with every Express Sessions event, those in attendance had a chance to ask questions and offer comments on the subjects at hand.

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Ben Rodgers sits down with Overton County Commissioner Patrick McCurdy. They explore his time in service to the Coast Guard, his journey to Overton County from his early years in Montana, and what he strives to accomplish as commissioner each and every day. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Jeremy Wendt is joined by Trent Jones from STEMOVATE. He helped bring STEM education to Putnam County School Systems as a 4H Agent, and has lived a life full of spreading his knowledge in agriculture, stem, and 4H. He talks about what inspires him to give students insight about STEM and agricultural education, and how STEMOVATE will continue to give help to students across Putnam County. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On Thursday, January 15, Westhampton Beach residents, business owners, elected officials and others gathered at Fauna in the village for the latest edition of the Express Sessions series “Local Matters,” providing those in attendance with a chance to discuss and debate the most pressing issues facing the community. The afternoon conversation ranged from new regulations that will require beachfront communities like Westhampton Beach to start paying a portion of federal beach replenishment costs, to the continued vacancy of prominent storefronts, and challenges related to the sewer district expansion, parking and more. Several options and ideas were explored, with input not only from those living and working in the immediate village area, but also from stakeholders in surrounding villages like Quogue and West Hampton Dunes. The panel included Westhampton Beach Village Mayor Ralph Urban and Deputy Mayor Kimberly Monsour; West Hampton Dunes Village Mayor Irwin Krasnow; Quogue Village Mayor Robert Treuhold; Jennifer Sperber, owner of Mixology and a member of the Westhampton Beach Chamber of Commerce; Larry Jones, a preservation consultant and trustee of the Westhampton Beach History Museum; and Aram Terchunian, a coastal geologist and president of First Coastal Consulting.

What does the future of triathlon really look like? Coach Chris Newport talks with Justin Boyer of Set Up Events about the evolution of triathlon, the resurgence of short-course racing, and why community—not distance—is what keeps athletes in the sport.We discuss:The legacy of Set Up Events, Bill Scott and White LakeWhy sprint racing is growing againThe role of volunteers and race cultureBurnout, longevity, and accessibility in endurance sportsHow local races shape the future of triathlonPlus a little challenge for everyone listening at the end :)A must-listen for athletes, coaches, and anyone who loves the sport.Read more and get in touch here: https://www.theenduranceedge.com/the-future-of-triathlon-with-set-up-events-why-racing-local-matters/

PJ Chats to Katie Sloane of Peach Vintage Clothing, who encourages everyone to shop local this Christmas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first in a new series titled "Local Matters" focused on Southampton Village with an Express Sessions event at Union Burger Bar on October 9. Top of mind for area residents and panelists in attendance were traffic, affordable housing and the continued push to develop a sewer district in Southampton Village.

Community based trials are reshaping clinical research, broadening patient access and accelerating timelines. Discover the drivers, challenges and future outlook.