Skip to content
Anna Marie's Sunday Focus podcast artwork

PODCAST · society

Anna Marie's Sunday Focus

by MWC

Public Affairs program that airs on Sunday mornings.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Oct 1, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Local Disability Awareness with ABLE

    Disability awareness starts with listening to the people living it. Tala spoke with ABLE Youth Executive Director Amy Saffell and Alexandra Jobe, a young Middle Tennessee woman who came through the organization’s program, about independence, accessibility and creating a more inclusive community....

  2. Nashville's Fit Crawl 2 Fight Breast Cancer

    Tala spoke with Men Wear Pink ambassador Rashed Fakhruddin about what inspired him to advocate for breast cancer awareness, why it’s important for men to become allies and how our community can show up for those affected all year long. From starting conversations to supporting survivors and…

    more
  3. Tennessee's Innocence Project

    What happens when you are wrongly convicted? There is an organization in Tennessee that is there to fight with you and for you. We sat down with Jason Gichner, Executive Director of the Tennessee Innocence Project, to learn more about the organization’s work to help correct wrongful convictions...

  4. Heidi's Salt_Mineral_Giveback

    We recently sat down with local entrepreneur and aesthetician Heidi Bellerjeau, whose personal journey is a story of reinvention, resilience and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. In her 50s, Heidi made the decision to return to school and further her education in aesthetics,...

  5. LeoLand--a Space Where Children of All Abilities Can Play

    A Mt. Juliet mother is helping create meaningful change for children with disabilities, and she’s doing it with the support of Wilson County officials and members of her community. Jennifer Ethridge is a mother to several children, including her son Leo, who was born with developmental and...

  6. The Healing Power of Music: Musicians_On_Call

    Tala spoke with Melinda LaFollette, Musicians On Call's Director of PR & Events, and local musician Mikki Zip about the organization’s history and its mission to bring the healing power of music to patients, families and caregivers. They shared stories about the many artists who have supported…

    more
  7. Avoiding Cryptocurrency Scams

    Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) is raising awareness about the growing threat of cryptocurrency scams and the importance of recognizing financial fraud. In our conversation with Kevin Walters, he explained their ongoing work to educate Tennesseans and strengthen protections...

  8. Parkinson's Foundation of TN and KY

    We spoke with William Kenney of the Parkinson’s Foundation Tennessee and Kentucky Chapter about his personal connection to the organization’s mission. After witnessing his father’s experience with Parkinson’s disease firsthand, William joined the foundation to help ensure other individuals and...

  9. Clip In 4 the Cure Cycling Event

    We spoke with Clip In 4 the Cure Director of Community Development LeighEllen Blevins about the high-energy team cycling event benefiting cancer initiatives at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. LeighEllen shared her personal connection to the...

  10. AncoraTN

    We spoke with Ashleigh Gonzales, Chief Development and Marketing Officer at AncoraTN, about the organization’s work to nurture survivor healing and combat human trafficking throughout Middle Tennessee. AncoraTN provides survivors with long-term, trauma-informed support through residential and...

  11. The Collective--Mental Health

    The Collective in Nashville takes a holistic approach to mental health and recovery, helping individuals struggling with mental health conditions, addiction and other emotional challenges find a path toward lasting wellness. Tala spoke to founder and CEO Courtney Grimes on how this innovative...

  12. Ella's House: For Pregnant and Parenting College Students

    For pregnant and parenting college students, continuing their education can feel nearly impossible without a strong support system. Tala sits down with Ella’s House founder Elise Jenkins, who shares how her own experience of discovering she was pregnant as she entered college inspired her to…

    more
  13. Reimagining Historic Jefferson Street

    We explore the future of one of Nashville's most historic corridors. Jefferson Street was once the heart of Black culture, commerce, and community before the construction of Interstate 40 divided the neighborhood in the 1960s. Now, through the city's Choose How You Move initiative, a new draft…

    more
  14. YMCA Achievers

    How can the right support change a student's future? In this episode, we sit down with the YMCA of Middle Tennessee to discuss the incredible impact of its Achievers program, which helped graduating seniors secure an astounding $6.2 million in scholarships this year. We talk about the importance…

    more
  15. Money Practices from Northwestern Mutual

    As the cost of everyday essentials continues to challenge household budgets, many Middle Tennesseans are looking for ways to strengthen their financial future. On this episode, we're joined by Eric Meriweather, Managing Director and Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, to discuss practical...

  16. Music Therapy with Music & Miracles

    Music & Miracles is helping people discover healing, connection, and personal growth through the evidence-based practice of music therapy. During the interview, founder and board-certified music therapist Allyson Rodgers shared how the Brentwood-based practice uses music as a therapeutic tool to...

  17. Change The Stars

    Former host and TV Personality Laura Schweizer decided to walk away from her role with Local on 2, WKRN News Channel 2 lifestyle show to tell stories on an even deeper level. With a heart that beats for serving others and telling meaningful stories, Laura is stepping into her new role as…

    more
  18. Mayor Freddie O'Connell

    Tala Shatara sits down with Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell to discuss the many ways he is fast tracking the city's needs. From year-round childcare centers that support parents to the importance of music education, Mayor O'Connell is keeping our city's children and their needs at the…

    more
  19. Danielle Breezy Discusses Endometriosis

    While she is continuously focusing on the storms moving through Middle Tennessee and South Kentucky, WKRN Chief Meteorologist was facing a storm behind closed doors. She uses her platform to discuss her recent diagnosis of Endometriosis and her hysterectomy, helping women and men understand the...

  20. Fitness Is Trending

    2026 has been coined as the year of health and wellness, and here in Nashville, that movement is stronger than ever. From fitness and nutrition to recovery, mental health, and preventative care, more Tala spoke with Terry Barga and Vanessa Hampton, co-founders of Nashville Fit Magazine, B2…

    more
  21. Save Lives on World Blood Donor Day

    Today is World Blood Donor Day, an international day of recognition dedicated to honoring blood donors and raising awareness about the constant, life-saving need for blood donations around the world. It’s a reminder that one simple act can make an extraordinary difference for patients facing...

  22. Helping Fathers Show Up for Their Families

    This Father’s Day, The Father’s House is redefining fatherhood—helping men show up for their families in meaningful, lasting ways and making every day feel like Father’s Day. The nonprofit supports fathers and all men transitioning back into society after incarceration, offering structure,...

  23. Nurses Needed--Your New Career?

    Nashville is a hub for healthcare and medicine in Middle Tennessee. As the area grows in population and older nurses are retiring, the need for new nurses is growing. In this Focus Interview, you'll hear from Amanda Pingston, assistant chief nursing officer at Ascension Saint Thomas West, who'll...

  24. Taking the "Scaries" Out of Having a Baby

    In this Focus interview, Brittany Lee, Nurse Manager for the Maternal/Newborn Center at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown, joins Anna to give expectant moms and parents info on what to expect when they deliver. The Maternal/ Newborn Center focuses on the baby and the mother, as well as education and...

  25. 5 Tips to Know Before You File Taxes

    Anna talks again with Paris Jackson, a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, to discuss essential tax credits and deductions to keep in mind before filing. A number of changes have been made to the 2026 tax laws, including the fact that tips are no longer taxable. Paris also outlines…

    more
  26. Learning About Women's Pelvic Floor Health

    For most of our lives, there's been stigma and misinformation about women's pelvic floor disorders. It is common, but not NORMAL for a woman to experience leakage, pain and other issues. But if no one talks about it, it can't be treated. Dr. Lisa Jambusaria, MD, FACOG, is an urogynecologist with...

  27. How to Save a Pet in Middle TN

    Anna talks with Brandon Dyce, President & CEO of the Pet Community Center in Nashville. With so many animal shelters experiencing an emergency overflow of unwanted pets, Pet Community Center's mission is to work on PREVENTIVE care for pets, including low-cost spay and neuter, vet services…

    more
  28. Showering Up Nashville's Homeless

    ShowerUp provides healthful, clean opportunities for those experiencing homelessness in Nashville, TN with mobile showers and personal hygiene necessities. Their mission is to build relationships, restore hope and dignity, to those in those in need in our city by providing them with shower…

    more
  29. Mobile Ultrasound in Mid TN

    Kimberly Fielding, founder of Kicks and Flutters Mobile Ultrasound, discusses her service. They allow Nashville-area residents the flexibility to choose where to have your ultrasound, and who to invite. The At-Home Pregnancy Ultrasound Boutique offers 4D, 3D, & 2D technology, progress packages,...

  30. Helping Mid TN Cats and Dogs When Their Owners Are In Need

    Anna talks with Gabe Horton, Executive Director of Pawster, which is a pet fostering non-profit for pets whose person is in a crisis situation. He discusses the reasons one might find themselves unable to care for their pets, including loss of housing, leaving a domestic violence situation, or...

  31. Helping Your Dog Be His or Her Best

    Dean Miller has developed a powerful and revolutionary new approach to dog training. His teaching methods begin to show results in the first few minutes. In fact, in one hour, most dog owners find they have changed their relationship with their dog for the better! In this podcast, hear how that...

  32. Nashville Symphony's 2026 Season Has Something For YOU

    In this focus, Angelica Franzino-Brown, the Vice President of Artistic Planning at the Nashville Symphony, talks about the new Music Director, new shows on the way (including a collaboration with Dolly Parton), ways YOU can see a free concert, family shows, a musical petting zoo and something...

  33. How to Keep Your Car Running Well

    Anna learns something about cars, how they work, and how to keep them working from Charlie Dubois, lead technician of Good Honest Mechanic in Hendersonville, TN. Charlie includes things you need to know about your car that are COMPLETELY different from cars just a few years ago. What systems are...

  34. Beaman Park is in Bloom for Spring

    Heather Gallagher Director of the Beaman Park Nature Center, gives info about what’s happening in this Spring at Beaman Park, and tells us the SYSTEMS in place to help you know where you are, where you’re headed, or how easy it is to get help if you get lost! There are three main trailheads,...

  35. Filing Insurance Claims After Ice Storm

    As many Nashvillians and Middle Tennesseans continue to rebuild after our massive ice storm, Anna chats with someone who knows all about insurance claims. The guest is Kevin Walters, spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance who advises you on the importance of filing...

  36. Beware "Storm Scams"

    There's a lot of damage to clean up after Nashville's recent deadly ice storm. Before you hire ANYONE to help you recover from the winter storm and ice damage, know that scammers are here NOW, knocking on doors, claiming they can help, repair, even file your insurance claims for you. Robyn...

  37. Financial Advice for Ice Storm Damages and Emergencies

    Financial Advisor Paris Jackson with Northwestern Mutual talks to Anna about paying for the repairs to your property caused by the recent Middle TN ice storm. She talks about where to find the money in your budget to build your savings or emergency fund - including how to "buckle down!" Paris…

    more
  38. Beating The Winter Blues

    In this episode, the guest is Dr. Joseph Sharpe, Chief Medical Officer at Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital. He talks about how to beat the winter blues. He says it can be a serious issue in January and February, especially, here in Middle Tennessee with the short days, cloudy...

  39. Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery in Mid TN

    Anna talks with Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Stephen Rich of Ascension Saint Thomas in Murfreesboro. The doctor discusses various weight loss options, including medication, Behavior changes and surgery. Dr Rich says obesity is a disease, not a character fault. Everyone is different and may need a...

  40. Taking Off Pounds Sensibly

    Anna interviews Alan Pruitt, Tennessee State Advocate for the Middle Tennessee Area of Tops (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly). They talk about the power of starting SLOW with Weight Loss. Most people have started, and stopped, and started again, on various weight-loss plans, and lost (then gained…

    more
  41. Choosing the Right Metro School

    It's the time to start thinking about which school is right for your child in the Metro system. Anna talks with Shelby Doyle, Sr. VP of Policy and International Partnerships at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  42. Nashville Hospitals Named Tops in Nation

    NASHVILLE AND MIDSTATE HOSPITALS NAMED TOP IN THE NATION* U.S. News and World Report and Forbes have listed several local hospitals as cream of the crop! For Maternity Care, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown (sometimes called “The Baby Hospital”, for delivering more babies than any other...

  43. Dealing with the Holidays, Adults and Kids, with Dr. Kathryn Sherrod

    Anna speaks with Psychologist Dr. Kathryn Sherrod, PhD, about how children cope with the excitement and occasional overwhelming events of the holiday season. Also, ways we as adults can face relatives who "push our buttons" and irritate us to the extreme on family get-togethers. See...

  44. YMCA of Middle TN

    Anna Marie talks with Dawn Rutledge of the YMCA of Middle Tennessee about the organizations many activities. They include: Northwest Xmas Tree1 – The YMCA of Middle Tennessee invites the community to join in spreading some joy and give a little extra support to families who need it this holiday...

  45. All About the Greater Nashville United Way

    Anna discusses the work of the Greater Nashville United Way. At United Way of Greater Nashville, their mission is to unite the community and mobilize resources so that every child, individual and family thrives. So many people are struggling right now, and don't know where to start, to get help....

  46. TN Red Cross

    As we turn the page on a new year, Paige Zulandt, Regional Communications Manager with the American Red Cross of Tennessee asks donors to make an appointment to give lifesaving blood or platelets now to help keep the blood supply strong during National Blood Donor Month in January. As a special...

  47. What the Salvation Army is REALLY Doing with Your Dollars

    Anna talks with Salvation Army Area Commander Bill Mockabee, who says our financial support helps them provide clothing, food, rent and utility help for families in crisis, a summer camp for kids, supportive housing including life navigation education, disaster services, the Annual Angel Tree...

  48. Why Do We Need So Much Insurance?

    Insurance is a Confusing topic. Health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance, disability and long-term care insurance.. How do we get what we need, and where do we even start? Today's guest is Paris Jackson, Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, and she's going to give you some...

  49. Nashville Mayor O'Donnell's Half-Term Update

    Our tenth Mayor of Metro Nashville Davidson County joins us in this podcast. Mayor Freddie O'Connell updates us on the progress that's been made during the first two years of his term, including the "Choose How You Move" transportation program, which focuses on four key areas: sidewalks, signals,...

  50. Get Help Getting Coverage in the Healthcare Marketplace

    Anna talks with a representative of Get Covered Tennessee, which offers free, unbiased, one-on-one assistance to help people understand their health care options and sign up for health insurance coverage. It's led by Family & Children’s Service that helps Tennesseans navigate their way through…

    more

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

TOPICS IN THIS SHOW

Click any topic to search every transcript on PodParley for moments someone mentioned it.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

Public Affairs program that airs on Sunday mornings.

HOSTED BY

MWC

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Anna Marie's Sunday Focus have?

Anna Marie's Sunday Focus currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Anna Marie's Sunday Focus about?

Public Affairs program that airs on Sunday mornings.

How often does Anna Marie's Sunday Focus release new episodes?

Anna Marie's Sunday Focus has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Anna Marie's Sunday Focus?

You can listen to Anna Marie's Sunday Focus on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Anna Marie's Sunday Focus?

Anna Marie's Sunday Focus is created and hosted by MWC.
URL copied to clipboard!