PODCAST · society
Local Matters
by News Talk 94.1
Education, Sports, Faith & Everything In BetweenOriginating 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.
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150
Jonathan Davis Joins Jeremy Wendt As They Discuss Highland Rim Academy Moving Forward
In this episode, Jeremy Wendt sits down with Jonathan Davis, the new Headmaster of Highland Rim Academy, to discuss his first year leading the school and his vision for its future. Davis shares his journey from educator and coach to school administrator, explains the principles behind classical Christian education, and discusses how Highland Rim is preparing students to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and servant leaders. The conversation also explores the school's continued growth, the value of relationship-centered learning, thoughtful technology use, and the opportunities ahead as Highland Rim approaches its 20th year of serving families in the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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149
Ryan Henry Joins Ben Rodgers To Help Shine A Light On Addiction Recovery
In this powerful episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Ryan Henry of the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency, whose own journey from addiction, incarceration, and homelessness to recovery has inspired a mission of helping others rebuild their lives. Ryan shares how his personal experiences led him to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and explains how UCHRA's UC Recovery program connects individuals across the Upper Cumberland with transportation, treatment, housing, employment, and long-term support. He discusses the importance of relationships, accountability, and meeting people where they are while emphasizing that recovery is possible when individuals are ready to take the first step. Through lived experience and a deep commitment to serving others, Ryan offers hope to those struggling with addiction and highlights the growing network of community partners working to help people achieve lasting recovery and a fresh start. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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148
Brad Taylor Joins Luke Ramey To Highlight The Ugly Mug Bar & Grill's Success
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
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147
Creed Hardison Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Cav Connect & Boys State
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Cookeville High School senior Creed Hardison to discuss his remarkable journey in student leadership, media production, and public service. Hardison shares his experience serving as executive producer of Cav Connect TV, being elected 2026 Tennessee Boys State Governor, and balancing academics, athletics, and entrepreneurship while preparing for a future in medicine. The conversation also explores the value of mentorship, the impact of Putnam County Schools, the importance of student involvement, and how leadership opportunities today are helping shape the next generation of community leaders. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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146
Erin Hoover Joins George Halford To Discuss Finding Meaning In The Moment
In this engaging episode, George Halford sits down with Tennessee Tech professor and Putnam County Poet Laureate Aaron Hoover to discuss the power of poetry, storytelling, and the arts in shaping both individuals and communities. Hoover reflects on the life experiences that inspired her writing, from growing up near Three Mile Island to living in New York City during the September 11 attacks, and explains how those moments continue to influence her work. She also shares her vision for expanding poetry throughout the Upper Cumberland, supporting young writers, and helping strengthen Cookeville's growing arts community through Tennessee Tech, the Sawmill Poetry Series, and her role as Poet Laureate. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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145
Philip Oldham Joins Ben Rodgers To Highlight Tennessee Tech's Growth & His Life Journey
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
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144
Marcy Little Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss Helping People Heal
In this informative Health Matters episode, Drs. Jennifer Mabry and Emily Lee sit down with wound care nurse practitioner Marcy Little to discuss why proper wound care is about much more than treating the injury itself. Little explains the difference between acute and chronic wounds, why conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, and nutrition play a critical role in healing, and when it's time to seek professional care. The conversation also debunks common wound care myths, offers practical tips for preventing infections and pressure injuries, and explores the latest advances in wound treatment, giving listeners valuable information to help themselves and their loved ones heal safely and effectively. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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143
Anna Dunn Joins Luke Ramey To Discuss The Community Side Of Soul Craft Coffee
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
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142
Leann Walker Joins Jeremy Wendt To Highlight The Importance Special Education Carries
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Upperman High School Teacher of the Year Leann Walker to discuss her journey from non-traditional college student to award-winning special education teacher. Walker shares what drew her to a CDC classroom, how real-world learning experiences help prepare students for life beyond high school, and why building relationships is at the heart of effective teaching. She also reflects on the importance of inclusion, the impact of peer mentorship, and the joy of helping students develop the confidence and independence they need to succeed in school, the workplace, and everyday life. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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141
Kay Winningham Joins George Halford To Share Unique Natural History
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
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140
Victoria Ray Joins Ben Rodgers To Highlight Serving UC Homeowners
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
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139
Heidi Clopton Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss Child Therapy And Development
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
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138
Leann Smith Joins Luke Ramey To Detail Providing Healthier Diet Choices
Bringing healthier options to Jamestown has been Leann Smith's goal for a while, and she joins Luke Ramey to discuss how she's doing it. Owner and operator of Native Provisions, Leann's goal was to bring healthier diet choices to Jamestown that are delicious, affordable, and fun all around! With the community being the focus of this goal, Smith hopes to continue achieving this goal every day! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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137
Blue Hensley Joins George Halford To Discuss The Future For Crawdaddy's
As one of Cookeville's most iconic restaurants continues to thrive almost twenty years after being bought, Blue Hensley joins George Halford to discuss the many things keeping it going. From putting family and faith first, honoring the customers' opinions, and hoping to continue growing as a business, Hensley details it all! In addition to this, Hensley also highlights what is in store for the future of Crawdaddy's as a business! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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136
Jennifer Hutchinson-Tracy Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss Proper Animal Care
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
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135
Tracy Bucholz Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Highlight Child Advocacy Advancements
From new advancements in technology and trends that could negatively affect your child, Tracy Bucholz joins Drs. Mabry & Lee to discuss it all. She highlights the scary rise in technology and screen time, and how it negatively affects young children's development. She offers many solutions and areas of aid that parents could implement into their child's daily life. As well as technology negatively impacting young children's development, Tracy discusses the medical signs of trauma and neglect and the services available for treatment. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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134
Gene Hayenga Joins Luke Ramey To Highlight Gene's Pizzeria & Upcoming Events
After transforming one of Cookeville's oldest buildings into a beautiful new pizzeria, Gene Hayenga joins Luke Ramey to discuss all things Gene's Pizzeria. They dive into Gene's journey into the restaurant business, as well as what inspired him along the way. In addition to this, Gene highlights the variety of menu items and cozy bar atmosphere; highlighting how Gene's Pizzeria is more than just a pizzeria. From unique specialty deals and exciting upcoming events, Gene's Pizzeria is a great place for anyone looking for a fun time! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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133
Adam West Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Preparing Students For Their Future
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
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132
Thom Robinson Joins George Halford To Discuss The Future Of The Upper Cumberland
As the future draws closer, what can the Upper Cumberland expect to see out of itself? To answer this question, former Chamber of Commerce member Thom Robinson joins host George Halford to discuss this. In addition to speaking on what the future holds for the Upper Cumberland, Robinson also shines a light on his many career achievements accomplished from a mixture of hard work, dedication, and faith. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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131
Malissa Mayberry Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss The Importance Of Early Childhood Advocacy
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
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130
Kyle Clark Joins Luke Ramey To Discuss The Realities Of Car Detailing
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
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129
Lizzie Lewis Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Student Education & Recruitment
Teaching is an ever evolving and growing career path for many young people. And on this episode, Lizzie Smith joins host Jeremy Wendt to discuss student education and recruitment. Lizzie begins by highlighting her story and the many roles of teaching on a collegiate level. Additionally, Lizzie compares her original job of educating students to her new job of recruiting them, detailing the different challenges she faces on a daily basis. And finally, she ends by discussing the modern world of education, while also speaking on the future of education. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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128
JoAnn Decollibus Joins George Halford To Discuss The National Dog Rescue
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
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127
Katelyn Steakley Joins Ben Rodgers To Highlight Breaking Education Barriers
Learn more about breaking barriers to help the community with funding basic school needs with Katelyn Steakley. She joins the show to showcase the Putnam Education Partnership Foundation and what events and programs are available, such as the backpack program, stuff the bus and care closets. As well as how local churches have helped PEP grow. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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126
Vinny Scardino Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Highlight The DUO Bus Medical Ministry
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! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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125
Mike Cummings Joins Luke Ramey To Highlight Spray-Away Cleaners
Mike Cummings of Spray-Away Cleaners, joins the show sharing why he has his solo cleaning service. He discusses helping people clean up after natural disasters while traveling across the country. He opens up about his past and what the future holds for Spray-Away Cleaners, while also delving into the world of what it takes to run a business by yourself. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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124
Emily Cochran Joins Luke Ramey To Discuss R&R Nutrition
Emily joins Luke telling her story of how and why she started R&R Nutrition and what products they have. As well as wellness and health, and how you can start or upgrade your wellness journey. She also shares how Multi-Level Marketing ties into how she runs her business. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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123
Robin Twitty Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Food To The Rescue
Jeremy sits down with Robin Twitty exploring the ins and outs behind how food benefits education performance and what influenced her to work with Food to the Rescue. In addition to this, she highlights what the organization is all about and how they help students facing food insecurity while going to school, while also detailing how they can qualify for that help. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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122
Tish Seilder Joins George Halford To Discuss A Life Of Service
Service has been a constant thread throughout Tish Seidler’s life, shaping every community she’s been part of. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Tish, President of the Cookeville Jr. Women’s Club, to talk about her journey from Texas to New York and ultimately finding her forever home in Cookeville. From leading PTAs and volunteering with organizations like the American Cancer Society and Dress for Success, to serving alongside her family in ministry and local nonprofits, Tish shares how each chapter led her to a deeper purpose in community involvement. She gives an inside look at the Cookeville Jr. Women’s Club, highlighting their projects, social events, and beloved initiatives like Santa’s Workshop, all while explaining the impact of their 41-member organization. This conversation is a testament to the power of service, connection, and finding meaningful ways to give back—right where you are. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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121
John Mackie Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss The Duties Of Being A Police Chief
Tune in as Ben Rodgers sits down with Monterey Police Chief John Mackie for an engaging and high-energy conversation! Chief Mackie shares what it was like growing up in the very community he now serves and the journey that led him into law enforcement. He also breaks down the department’s budget, new equipment upgrades, and the team behind the badge. Don’t miss this inside look at leadership, service, and hometown dedication. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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120
Dr. James Cates Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Talk On The Importance Of Men's Mental Health Month
On today's episode, we sit down with Dr. James Cates talking all things men's health in honor of Men's Health Month. Starting off with his medical background and misconceptions around men's health. They also touch on the use of GLP-1 medications and changes in weight loss. As well as supplementing water and protein for proper weight loss without the medication. From GLP-!s to Cancer Screenings and everything in between, men's health is more important than ever to keep track of and discuss. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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119
Quentin Coffee Joins Luke Ramey As They Discuss The Power Of Building Relationships
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
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118
Julie Smith Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Student Support Beyond The Classroom
Education builds passion. What does a career in education counseling look like? Julie Smith is here to share her experience working in education counseling on the local level, while also explaining what steps are taken to help students in and out of school. She goes in depth on her journey and calling into this line of work, while detailing all of the heartwarming stories that makes working in such a stressful position worth it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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117
Tish Seilder Joins George Halford To Discuss Forming A Lifelong Sisterhood Through Service
Service has been a constant thread throughout Tish Seidler’s life, shaping every community she’s been part of. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Tish, President of the Cookeville Jr. Women’s Club, to talk about her journey from Texas to New York and ultimately finding her forever home in Cookeville. From leading PTAs and volunteering with organizations like the American Cancer Society and Dress for Success, to serving alongside her family in ministry and local nonprofits, Tish shares how each chapter led her to a deeper purpose in community involvement. She gives an inside look at the Cookeville Jr. Women’s Club, highlighting their projects, social events, and beloved initiatives like Santa’s Workshop, all while explaining the impact of their 41-member organization. This conversation is a testament to the power of service, connection, and finding meaningful ways to give back—right where you are. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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116
Chris South Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss Protecting The Crossville Area From Fires
Ben Rodgers sits down with Crossville Fire Chief Chris South! From his early days as a volunteer firefighter to leading a modern department, Chris shares how training, gear, and the job itself have evolved over the years. He dives into the real needs of today’s firefighters and what it takes to keep a community safe. Packed with adrenaline, passion, and hometown pride, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Tune in for more! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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115
Alyssa Hudson Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss Proper Eye Care
Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Alyssa Hudson of Middle TN Eye to discuss common eye conditions, including cataracts and other general vision concerns. Alyssa shares insights on the importance of early detection and the proper steps to take when experiencing potential vision issues. The conversation also addresses prevention strategies and highlights warning signs that are often overlooked or dismissed. Together, they debunk common myths and misconceptions surrounding eye care and the role of eye health professionals. Tune in for more! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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114
Hunter Young Joins Luke Ramey As They Discuss What It Takes To Be An Entrepreneur
Fencing is a big deal and a big process, but Cumberland Penn & Fence strive to make that easy. On this episode, Hunter Young joins Luke Ramey to discuss how his business strives to offer quality fencing and affordable prices. He speaks on the journey he's taken in life, and how it ultimately all led him into the world of entrepreneurship. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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113
Bill Harris & Dylan Ashlock Join Jeremy Wendt To Discuss The Importance Of School Safety
Building relationships are the key to a healthy community. So, how do SRO's build relationships between students and local law enforcement? Bill Harris & Dylan Ashlock are here to answer and take a look at what it means to be an SRO and how SROs have changed schools. They go in depth on what it takes to keep schools safe in the current day, while also sharing plans for the future of providing a place where students can feel safe. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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112
Erin Hoover Joins George Halford To Discuss Finding Meaning In Every Moment
Life’s most defining moments often shape the stories we tell—and how we tell them. In this episode, George Halford sits down with Erin Hoover, professor at Tennessee Tech and the first Poet Laureate for Putnam County, to explore how her life experiences have influenced her work as a writer and educator. From growing up near the Three Mile Island Nuclear Incident to living in New York during the September 11 attacks, Erin reflects on how witnessing major events shaped her perspective and creative voice. She shares how poetry became a tool for processing life as a single parent, as seen in her collections Barn Burner and No Spare People, and how storytelling can help both writer and reader better understand themselves. This conversation also highlights her role in the local arts community, from teaching at Tennessee Tech to her work with the Cookeville Arts Council and the Sawmill Poetry Series—showing how poetry continues to connect, inspire, and bring people together. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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111
Dr. Jeanette Luna Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss TN Tech's Involvement With NASA
In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Dr. Jeannette Luna from Tennessee Technological University to discuss NASA’s Artemis mission and the future of lunar exploration. Dr. Luna shares her journey through academia and research, along with how she became involved in space science and NASA data projects. She also highlights the strength of Tennessee Tech’s research programs and the role students play in advancing real-world scientific work. From mapping lunar surfaces to preparing for future missions, she offers a look into how data, collaboration, and curiosity drive modern space exploration. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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110
Dr. Sarah Apple Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss The Role Of A Healthy Pelvic
Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Dr. Sarah Apple of Happy Pelvis Therapy to discuss pelvic floor health and the role of pelvic floor therapy in overall wellness. Dr. Apple shares her journey from occupational therapy at UT Chattanooga to specializing in pelvic floor care after a student-led project sparked her interest. She explains common conditions such as urinary incontinence and bowel leakage, while also addressing how hydration and daily habits impact bladder health. The conversation also works to debunk common myths and misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy and highlights who can benefit from treatment. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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109
Brittany Rogers Joins Luke Ramey To Discuss The Mission Of Graceful Grazing
Host Luke Ramey is joined by Brittany Rogers of Graceful Grazing to discuss her catering and food delivery service. She speaks on the success and growth she's seen from her business in the last year, highlighting the wonderful support from her local community. In addition, Rogers dives into the background of Graceful Grazing, and the 'gathering around the table' culture that inspired her to start the business. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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108
Sheri Roberson Joins Jeremy Wendt For A Discussion On Making Special Education Better In Putnam County
Jeremy Wendt sits down with Sheri Roberson, Putnam County Special Education Supervisor, to reflect on her 37-year career in education. Sheri shares how her path shifted from nursing to special education after discovering a passion for working with students through the Special Olympics. She discusses growing up in a family of educators, working under her father who was a principal, and eventually working alongside him early in her career. The conversation highlights the challenges of serving a large district and the support systems in place for students with special needs and their families. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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107
Sandy Brecker Joins George Halford To Discuss Building Something Meaningful
From designing cars at General Motors to helping shape the future of the Upper Cumberland, Sandy Brecker has never stopped building something meaningful. Sandy joins George Halford to share her journey from Michigan engineer to Algood Planning Commissioner, photographer, and community advocate. She reflects on her passion for creativity, public service, and the impact of organizations like the Cookeville Camera Club. When purpose meets passion, remarkable things develop. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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106
Jason Hardy Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss The Growth Of Jackson Co. Schools
What does it take to lead a school system while carrying the perspective of a former coach, teacher, and hometown student? In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Jason Hardy to explore his journey from Jackson County High School student to educator, coach, and now administrator for the district he once called home. He reflects on years spent coaching football at Tennessee Technological University and teaching in Middle Tennessee before returning to lead Jackson County Schools. Jason also discusses the challenges facing rural education today, from declining enrollment and rising homeschool trends to staffing, funding, and student opportunity. Through it all, his focus remains steady—ensuring every student has the chance to leave school better prepared than the generation before them. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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105
Amy Breedlove Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Spread Better Awareness Of Parkinson's
Breaking down misconceptions can be just as important as advancing the science. In this episode, Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Amy Breedlove, Executive Chair of the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s, to discuss the realities of living with Parkinson’s Disease and the mission behind the organization. Founded by Brent Peterson after his own diagnosis ended a decades-long career in the NHL, the foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s through awareness, support, and advocacy. Amy shares how she stepped into her role, what the work means to her personally, and how the foundation continues to push forward in the fight against this disease. The conversation also takes on common myths and misconceptions in a “Myth vs. Truth” segment, offering clarity, education, and a stronger understanding of what living with Parkinson’s really looks like. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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104
Chris Couch Joins Tiffany Anton To Discuss The Impact Of The Bean Pot Camp Ground
What happens when construction work turns into a calling to bring people together outdoors? In this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with Chris Crouch, owner of The Bean Pot Camp Ground, to talk about how he went from buying a distressed property while working in construction to building a welcoming space centered on family, hospitality, and outdoor fun. Chris shares what inspired him to open his own campground instead of relying on state parks, along with the trails, amenities, and hands-on experiences that keep guests coming back. He also dives into the transformation of two formerly run-down properties into thriving campgrounds that honor what the original owners hoped they would become. From monthly Bluegrass Jams that have grown from a handful of attendees to over 150 people with food trucks and community at the center, this conversation shows how a simple vision for connection can grow into something much bigger—proof that sometimes the best places are built from the ground up with people in mind. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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103
Jessica Childers Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Setting Students Up For Success
Jeremy Wendt sits down with Jessica Childers, a Putnam County Middle School Math Specialist, to discuss her role supporting grades 5–8 across the school system. Jessica shares her journey from aspiring marine biologist to educator, and how she ultimately found her passion in mathematics education. She reflects on her day-to-day work coaching teachers, adapting to changing standards, and helping students build strong foundational math strategies. The conversation highlights her growth as an educator and the impact of patient, strategy-based instruction on student success. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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102
Harold Lough Joins George Halford To Discuss How Hard Work & Determination Pay Off
From a two-room schoolhouse to two decades of military service, Harold Lough’s story is packed with grit, faith, and old-school determination. Harold joins George Halford to reflect on farm life, military memories, meeting his wife in uniform, and the perseverance that carried their family through decades of challenges. He also shares the legacy of the American Legion and why supporting veterans remains so important today. Some lives are built on hard work—and some stories prove it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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101
Elaine Watkins & Amy McKenzie Join Drs. Mabry & Lee To Discuss Quality Home Health
Healthcare doesn’t always happen in a hospital—sometimes, it comes right to your front door. In this episode, Amy McKenzie and Elaine Watkins of Quality Home Health join the conversation to break down what home health really looks like. Elaine shares her 30-year journey in the field, from starting as an LPN to leading clinical care, while Amy offers insight from her background in social work and patient advocacy. Together, they walk through what a typical home health visit involves, the most common conditions they treat, and how their team helps patients maintain independence at home. From myth-busting to real-life care, this episode highlights how support, compassion, and expertise can meet patients exactly where they are. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Education, Sports, Faith & Everything In BetweenOriginating 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.
HOSTED BY
News Talk 94.1
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