Signature Required

Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson breaks down the mechanics behind the Boring Company's underground tunnels, Choice Lanes, and the real drivers of Tennessee's explosive growth. From navigating misinformation to the sacrifice required for public service, Johnson reveals why state government is where problems actually get solved.Send us Fan Mail

Location manager Wendall Hinkle pulls back the curtain on how major productions like Superman, Nashville, and 9-1-1 Nashville find and transform real places into the backdrops of our favorite shows. From knocking on doors in neighborhoods to shutting down bridges for rescue scenes, Wendall reveals the logistics, relationships, and grit required to bring scripts to life in Tennessee's booming film industry.Send us Fan Mail

 Lance Villio, Executive Director of the Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative, joins Signature Required to discuss how government, churches, and nonprofits can work together to serve Tennessee’s most vulnerable. Appointed by Governor Bill Lee, Lance leads an office positioned between the state’s 23 departments and local communities, addressing complex challenges through three key efforts: Every Child Tennessee, the Volunteer Mentorship Initiative, and the Human Flourishing Initiative. At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful idea: government plays an important role, but lasting change happens when everyday Tennesseans take shared responsibility for their neighbors. Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sit down with Dr. Candice McQueen, President of Lipscomb University, to explore the evolving role of higher education in Tennessee. We discuss how Lipscomb is balancing academic rigor with a Christ-centered mission, the importance of preparing students for both career and purpose, and how universities can stay grounded in their identity during times of cultural and institutional change. Dr. McQueen also shares insights on leadership, student development, and the connection between education, community, and workforce needs.Send us Fan Mail

Tiffany Kerns, Executive Director of the CMA Foundation, joins Signature Required for a grounded and expansive conversation about music education, leadership, and the power of community partnership. While many know the Country Music Association for CMA Fest and the CMA Awards, Tiffany explains the broader purpose behind the organization and how country music chose to invest deeply in one simple cause: ensuring students have access to music education.Send us Fan Mail

At the Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga, learning looks a lot like play, and play is serious work. From the center of the museum’s atrium, Mackenzie Steele, Director of Marketing and Communications, shares how one of Tennessee’s most beloved children’s museums has spent 30 years helping families learn together through hands-on experiences, creativity, and curiosity. The conversation explores what makes Creative Discovery Museum uniquely place-based, how its exhibits reflect Chattanooga’s culture and growth, and why children’s museums are a powerful indicator of a healthy community.Send us Fan Mail

 Randy Boyd, President of the University of Tennessee, joins Signature Required for a conversation about entrepreneurship, public service, and the role higher education plays in shaping the future of Tennessee. From starting businesses in his early twenties to serving in state government and now leading one of the state’s most important institutions, Randy reflects on the through line that has connected each chapter of his career: a belief that education creates opportunity. Send us Fan Mail

Signature Required sits down with Vernon Shaw, Manager of Donor Relationships for Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, for a conversation about food insecurity, community care, and the complexity behind feeding thousands of families across the region. What many people think of as simply “passing out food” is actually a massive operation involving logistics, nutrition, volunteers, partner agencies, and strategic support across 46 counties in Middle and West Tennessee.Send us Fan Mail

Signature Required sits down with Scott Peck, Executive Chef of Loveless Cafe, for a conversation about Southern cooking, culinary leadership, and what it takes to steward one of Tennessee’s most iconic restaurants. From biscuits and fried chicken to cast iron, kitchen culture, and the tension between tradition and innovation, Scott shares his journey from a nervous first interview to leading a Nashville institution. As Loveless celebrates 75 years, the episode explores the craftsmanship behind its famous food, the business discipline required to sustain a beloved brand, and the hospitality that keeps people coming back generation after generation.Send us Fan Mail

Jack Daniel’s is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, but its story is deeply rooted in a small Tennessee town, generations of family legacy, and an uncompromising commitment to doing things the right way. From the Bethel House at the entrance of the Lynchburg distillery, Chris Fletcher, Vice President, Master Distiller, and Director of Distillery Operations, shares what it really means to steward a brand that produces every drop of its whiskey in Moore County, one of the smallest counties in Tennessee. The conversation explores how Jack Daniel’s balances tradition and innovation, why Tennessee whiskey is different, and how quality and consistency have carried the brand across nearly 160 years.Send us Fan Mail

Signature Required sits down with CJ Sentelll, CEO of the Nashville Food Project, to explore food insecurity from a community and systems perspective. The conversation goes beyond emergency food aid to examine why hunger exists, how food deserts and food swamps shape neighborhoods, and what it takes to build long-term access to nutritious food.Send us Fan Mail

Weather becomes personal when it’s happening over your neighborhood, at night, with kids asleep down the hall. Andrew Leeper, Director of Broadcasting for Nashville Severe Weather, explains why hyperlocal, calm, two-way communication matters more than hype when storms hit Middle Tennessee. He shares how a volunteer, donation-supported team built trust by serving first, why tone and clarity save lives during tornado warnings, and what parents, schools, and communities often misunderstand about severe weather, snow events, and preparedness. This conversation pulls back the curtain on the voices many Tennesseans rely on in the most stressful moments and shows how credibility, restraint, and care can turn information into real reassurance.Send us Fan Mail

Public safety looks very different when you move past TV stereotypes and into real communities. Mark Davidson, District Attorney General for Tennessee’s 25th Judicial District, offers a candid look at what the justice system actually does and what it quietly carries. He explains why most of his work is not about locking people up, but about protecting communities, supporting victims, navigating limited resources, and making judgment calls in cases where the stakes are deeply human. From rural courtrooms to violent crime, mental health cases, and victim advocacy, this conversation explores how justice works in practice, why trust and confidence matter, and what Tennesseans often misunderstand about the people tasked with upholding the law every day.Send us Fan Mail

Patrick Sheehan, Director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, is one of the people most Tennesseans never see but rely on constantly. Drawing on decades of experience responding to disasters ranging from floods and tornadoes to pandemics and infrastructure failures, Patrick explains what emergency management actually looks like day to day, why preparation is mostly unglamorous and relational long before anything goes wrong, and how leadership, trust, and calm matter more than perfect plans. This conversation explores what government can and cannot do in a crisis, why community readiness and personal responsibility still matter, and what Tennesseans should understand about preparedness in a world where disasters are more frequent, more complex, and rarely look the way we expect.Send us Fan Mail

Chief John Drake, Metro Nashville’s Chief of Police, joins us for a wide ranging conversation on leadership, trust, and what it actually means to serve a city that has changed dramatically over the last few decades. With nearly four decades in law enforcement and deep roots in Nashville, Drake shares how his early experiences shaped his view of policing, why community engagement is not a side project but a core pillar of public safety, and how MNPD thinks about precision policing, transparency, and crime prevention at the neighborhood level. We also talk candidly about moments that have tested the city and its first responders, the mental health toll of crisis leadership, and why the best policing today looks less like force and more like patience, presence, and accountability.Send us Fan Mail

Screens are shaping childhood in ways most parents never connect until something feels off. Dr. Nidhi Gupta joins us for a clear, clinical conversation about screen safety, child development, and what she sees showing up in kids long before families realize technology may be playing a role. She explains why screens are often a symptom rather than the root issue, how device use affects sleep, hormones, behavior, and emotional regulation, and why fear based messaging misses the point. This conversation focuses on earlier awareness, healthier boundaries, and why prevention and education matter more than restriction in a world where screens are not going away.Send us Fan Mail

Join us this week as we sit down with Rory and AJ Vaden, co-founders of Brand Builders Group. We talk about personal branding, entrepreneurship, and what it really means to build a meaningful business together. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sat down with Tasia Malakasis, CEO of The Company Lab, to explore her journey from tech executive to entrepreneur. She shares insights on Chattanooga’s startup scene, the importance of tenacity, and how The Company Lab supports mobility startups. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sat down with Dean Wegner, founder and CEO of Authentically American, to talk about how his company is producing 100% U.S.-made apparel while supporting veterans, maintaining American manufacturing, and leading with faith and values.Send us Fan Mail

Join us this week as we sit down with Brian Clifford, Director of Tennessee’s Office of Outdoor Recreation, to explore the state’s outdoor opportunities. We dive into how Tennessee is improving quality of life, creating jobs, and conserving natural spaces—from rivers and trails to cave systems. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

In this festive episode, Ellen Liston, PR Manager at Dollywood, takes us inside the park for its beloved Smoky Mountain Christmas. She also shares Dolly Parton’s vision for community impact and the stories of employees who bring the magic to life.Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sit down with Lauren Clanton, Behavioral Specialist at Faith Family Medical Center, to dive into the key issues and opportunities influencing Nashville’s health landscape. We explore her work in community engagement, the importance of equitable access to resources, and the partnerships driving meaningful change across the city. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sit down with Mark Yancy, CEO of NashvilleHealth, to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping Nashville’s public health. We discuss access to healthier choices, how the city’s infrastructure impacts well-being, and the collaborative work needed to move Nashville forward. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

Join us this week as we sit down with Joshua Haston, Development Manager at LDG Development's Nashville office, to unpack the challenges and solutions behind affordable housing. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sit down with Glenn Cranfield, President & CEO of the Nashville Rescue Mission, to talk about how the organization has been serving Nashville’s homeless community since 1953, offering not just shelter, but hope, restoration, and faith-driven transformation.Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sat down with Danny Herron, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville, to talk about how the organization is building more than homes—creating stability through education, financial literacy, and community partnerships that strengthen Middle Tennessee.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby shares her journey leading a rural community, tackling challenges like Hurricane Helene, supporting female leadership, and fostering resilience through partnerships and regional cooperation.Send us Fan Mail

 In this episode, Nashville's Mayor Freddie O’Connell shares his vision for the city’s future focusing on quality of life, affordable housing, and smart, balanced growth. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, community, and the next chapter for Nashville.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, also known as WWE Hall of Famer Kane, shares his journey from wrestling to politics and how he’s driving growth in Knox County through small business support, skilled trades, and collaborative leadership.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Chattanooga's Mayor Tim Kelly shares his journey from business to politics and how he’s driving the city’s transformation through economic mobility, early childhood education, and public-private partnerships. This conversation was recorded in April, 2025.Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sit down with Erik Schelzig, editor for the Tennessee Journal and co-author of 'Welcome to Capitol Hill: 50 Years of Scandal in Tennessee Politics'. Erik shares captivating stories from his 20-year career covering the Tennessee State House, discusses the challenges facing the media industry, and provides insights into major political scandals in Tennessee's history. Tune in today. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, James Pond, CEO of the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation, shares why early literacy matters and how programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, book buses, and storybook trails are helping Tennessee kids thrive.Send us Fan Mail

In this candid conversation, recorded as part of an exit interview, former U.S. Congressman Mark Green (TN-7) reflects on his years in public service and his decision to step away from Congress. No topic or question was off-limits, as Green shared his professional experiences, personal challenges, and hopes for Tennessee’s future.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Dr. Cynthia Osborne, founder and executive director of the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Peabody College, discusses the importance of early childhood development and the impact of state policies on families and children. Dr. Osborne explains why the prenatal-to-3 period is crucial for brain development, highlights effective policies that support families, and shares the groundbreaking Begin Bright program aimed at enhancing early literacy in Nashville. Send us Fan Mail

Dr. LaTonya Mouzon, Executive Director of Arise2Read, a Memphis-based literacy nonprofit, joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of literacy in early education. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

Join us this week as we dive into the Begin Bright initiative with Elizabeth Atack and Elizabeth Sherrard from the Nashville Public Library. Discover how this program is providing books, literacy resources, and crucial early education support to children and families across Davidson County. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the future of our community's literacy and education.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Piercey, a physician, healthcare entrepreneur, and the former Tennessee Commissioner of Health, shares her remarkable journey from a pediatrician to an influential healthcare leader and author of 'Natural Born Entrepreneurs.' Dr. Piercey discusses her passion for serving rural communities, the complexities of mid-career reinvention, and the intricacies of healthcare acquisitions. Learn how her unique path has shaped her mission to improve healthcare access and delivery in Tennessee.Send us Fan Mail

This week, we sat down with Dr. Leah Melber, President & CEO of the Adventure Science Center. She shares her journey from studying zoology to leading one of Tennessee’s largest science centers, highlighting the exhibits, community outreach, and events that make it a Nashville favorite. A must-listen for parents, educators, and science enthusiasts alike.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Stacey Nickens, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Nashville International Airport (BNA), shares how one of the fastest-growing airports in the country is becoming a true reflection of Nashville’s culture. From live music and local dining to world-class art, discover how BNA is transforming travel into a uniquely Nashville experience—while undergoing a $3 billion expansion to connect Middle Tennessee to the world.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Sheila Noone, Communications Manager at the Museum of Science and History (MoSH), shares exciting details about the museum's rich history and diverse exhibits. Learn about the transformation of the historic Pink Palace mansion, originally built by entrepreneur Clarence Saunders, into a vibrant museum. Sheila delves into the variety of permanent and traveling exhibits, including geology displays, evolutionary exhibits with animatronic dinosaurs, and the notable replica of the first Piggly Wiggly store. Perfect for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and families planning a visit to Memphis!Send us Fan Mail

We’re kicking off Season 2 of Signature Required with a special episode featuring Thom Demas, Vice President and Chief Husbandry & Exhibits Officer at the Tennessee Aquarium. Thom shares his unexpected journey from managing auto parts stores to leading marine biology efforts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at animal care, conservation work, and the art of exhibit design. This episode is both educational and fun. Tune in now!Send us Fan Mail

We’re taking a summer break and will return with new episodes on August 5th! Until then, we hope you enjoy this special anniversary episode where Spencer and Carli celebrate one year of Signature Required by reflecting on their journey and sharing highlights from 52 guests. From insightful conversations about the charm of Tennessee to heartfelt stories from nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs, it’s been a year packed with inspiration, growth, and plenty of laughs!Send us Fan Mail

This week, we spoke with Dr. Jeremy Qualls, the Executive Director for the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) and Career & Technical Programs at Williamson County Schools. Dr. Qualls shares the origin and growth of the EIC, an incubator space for student entrepreneurs. He discusses the unique educational approach of the EIC that emphasizes hands-on experience, mentorship, and soft skills. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

Carli sits down with Darren Andrus, Lydia Burton, and Reese Greenman from the Tennessee Baptist Children's Homes to discuss their work with children and families in crisis. The conversation sheds light on the unique aspects of residential group homes, the process of reunification with families, and the challenges and rewards of working with children who have experienced trauma. The guests also share inspiring stories and the various ways people can get involved to support their mission, from volunteering to donating. Send us Fan Mail

This week, we are joined by the Deputy Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Andy Holt to discuss the vital role of agriculture and forestry in Tennessee. Holt shares insights from his personal journey, from working on a ranch in Wyoming, serving as a state legislator, and now promoting Tennessee agriculture worldwide. Learn about the state's rich agricultural history, the diverse commodities it produces, and the global markets that seek these products.Send us Fan Mail

This week, Carli and I are joined by Sean Phipps, Director of Marketing for the Chattanooga Tourism Co., as we explore the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Sean shares the city's unique history, key attractions, and its incredible transformation from 'America's dirtiest city' to a National Park City. We discuss Chattanooga's burgeoning cultural and culinary scene, the International Bluegrass Music Association's upcoming event, and the unexpected tech growth in the area. Tune in today!Send us Fan Mail

What does it take to lead disaster relief across 98 counties—and rally thousands of volunteers to answer the call? In this episode, I sit down with Joel Sullivan, Regional Executive of the American Red Cross Tennessee Region, to talk about the mission behind the organization, the power of preparedness, and the incredible stories of service that keep it all moving. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Commissioner Brad Turner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging shares insights into his groundbreaking role. Brad discusses the integration of the Department of Disability and Aging, the importance of advocacy for people with disabilities, successful programs like MAPS and the Katie Beckett Fund, and innovative partnerships aimed at improving the lives of aging Tennesseans. Tune in to learn how the department is making impactful changes and meeting the needs of those often unseen and unheard.Send us Fan Mail

Brittany Schaffer, the Dean of the School for Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University shares her journey from high school debate team to Vanderbilt, and her transition from the legal field to academia. She discusses the unique educational opportunities at Belmont, such as the innovative 'Dolly U' program in partnership with Dolly Parton. Brittany dives deep into the collaborative spirit of Nashville's music industry and Belmont's role in shaping future leaders. Send us Fan Mail

Justin Maierhofer, Vice President for the Northern Region of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), joins Spencer and Carli to delve into TVA's role in energy generation, environmental stewardship, and economic development. Justin explains TVA’s diverse energy mix, the importance of public power, and how the organization is working towards a resilient and sustainable future. Send us Fan Mail