Sweet Tea and Strategy

Can a single book change the trajectory of a child’s life? Jeff Conyers believes so—and with 150 million books mailed and counting, the data is on his side. In this episode, you’ll learn the heartwarming personal story that inspired Dolly Parton to launch the Imagination Library and how a "turnkey" replication model allows local communities worldwide to gift books to every child from birth to age five. Cathy Ackerman sits down with Jeff Conyers, CEO of the Dollywood Foundation. They discuss Jeff's unconventional path from Governor Phil Bredesen’s "body man" to the leader of a global literacy nonprofit. You'll hear about the foundation’s massive growth during the pandemic, the logistics of mailing 1.8 million books monthly, and what it’s really like to work with the "Little Engine That Did" herself—Dolly Parton. Listen now to discover how the Imagination Library is lowering barriers to literacy one mailbox at a time.

Did you know that children aren't just "little adults" when it comes to medicine? From the way a bone heals to the emotional resilience required in a hospital ward, pediatric care is a world of its own—one built on trust, sun-steeped traditions, and a deep-seated mission to protect the next generation. In this episode, you’ll discover the heart behind East Tennessee Children’s Hospital and how specialized pediatric care is evolving to meet families where they are, whether that’s through regional satellite clinics or the rapid rise of telemedicine. Join us as Matt Schaefer, CEO of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, sits down to share his personal "why"—a journey sparked by his nephew’s battle with leukemia. We dive into the unique challenges of pediatric healthcare, the critical importance of family-centered care, and the hospital's strategic expansion across the region. Matt also tackles the "genie out of the bottle" reality of telehealth and the growing epidemic of pediatric behavioral health, offering a candid look at the future of medicine in our community. Hit play to hear how Matt and his team are shaping the future of health for East Tennessee’s children!

Can a "side gig" fueled by artistic vulnerability evolve into a luxury brand featured on hit TV shows and red carpets? Moving from the art studios of Knoxville to the fashion competitive landscape of Manhattan requires more than just a creative eye—it requires a relentless business strategy and a willingness to reinvent yourself like Madonna. In this episode, you’ll learn how to navigate the transition from artist to entrepreneur, the power of strategic networking with high-profile influencers, and why maintaining a "side hustle" is a critical safety net for any budding creative venture. Join host Beth Parks as she sits down with renowned artist and designer Diana Warner. Diana reveals her unconventional path through the University of Tennessee’s fine arts program, the accidental birth of her jewelry line at the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the bold decision to relocate her studio to Gramercy Park. We explore her strategic partnerships with the cast of Gossip Girl and country music icons Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, as well as her recent expansion into home products and custom cabinetry. Listen now to discover the persistence and logic behind Diana Warner’s global success.

In this episode of "Sweet Tea and Strategy," Kathy Ackerman sits down with former Governor Bill Haslam to reflect on his two terms in office and explore his current initiatives. Haslam shares insights from his upcoming book about civil discourse, emphasizes the critical link between education and Tennessee’s economic future, and discusses the impact of landmark programs like Tennessee Promise. He also offers a candid look at personal life after the governorship, including time with his 10 grandchildren and his reflections on navigating a polarized national landscape.

What if the key to managing chronic pain isn't lowering a "pain score," but baking three pies and cleaning a kitchen? In this episode, you’ll learn why traditional pain management often fails and how a shift toward "Targeted Pain Treatment" focuses on restoring physical function and overall health rather than just masking symptoms. Erin Freeman sits down with Dr. Stephanie Vanterpool, Director of Comprehensive Pain Services at UT Medical Center. They discuss the rapid evolution of telemedicine during the pandemic, the dangers of using opioids as a "bandage" for underlying issues, and the upcoming Focus on Function conference designed to educate all healthcare providers on restorative pain care. Listen now to discover a more strategic, functional approach to pain management.

From retail management to leading a force of over 400—Chief Eve Thomas shares her unexpected journey into law enforcement and her vision for the Knoxville Police Department. In this episode, you’ll learn about the evolving landscape of policing, from the impact of national events on local departments to the critical role of technology and community engagement in building a safer city. Cathy Ackerman hosts Knoxville Police Chief Eve Thomas for an insightful discussion on the department's $56 million budget, the challenges and rewards of being a female leader in a male-dominated field, and the profound impact an officer can have on a single, routine call. They also explore the department's proactive recruitment efforts and new community ambassador programs. Listen now to gain a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies and heart behind the Knoxville Police Department.

Listeners will discover how a legacy family business pivoted from local canning to global leadership by focusing on "Bean Goodness" and environmental sustainability. Al Williams, CEO of Bush Brothers & Company, joins Cathy Ackermann to trace the company's fascinating history, from its 1908 origins in East Tennessee to the 1969 invention of their secret baked bean recipe. Al reveals how the company weathered massive changes—like the flooding of farmland by the TVA—and why they decided to focus almost exclusively on beans and cans for their long-term growth. Learn about the company’s deep commitment to being a "living company," its innovative water reuse and recycling practices, and its stakeholder-driven management philosophy that prioritizes employees, customers, and the community.

What happens when an NHL pro trades the Canadian winter for the Tennessee sun and becomes the heart of a city’s sports scene for 30 years? In this episode, listeners will discover how professional sports strategies translate into resilient business leadership, especially when facing a global shutdown. Mike Murray, President and CEO of the Knoxville Ice Bears, joins Aaron Freeman to discuss his journey from a 17-year-old NHL draftee to his recent induction into the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame. Mike opens up about the financial gut-punch of COVID-19, his "unfinished business" mentality for the upcoming season, and why character off the ice is just as important as talent on it. We also dive into his passion for the Change Center and how sports serve as a vital economic and social driver in East Tennessee.

Did you know Tennessee ranks number one in the nation for its music industry workforce relative to size? Listeners will understand the complex logistics of location scouting and how Tennessee competes with global entertainment hubs like LA and London. Bob Raines, Executive Director of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, joins Cathy Ackerman to break down the economic impact of the state's multi-billion dollar entertainment sector. From Knoxville’s non-scripted television dominance to Memphis’s independent film grit, Bob explains how Tennessee leverages its unique creative class to attract massive productions like Netflix's Brian Banks and NBC's Bluff City Law. He also dives deep into the "nuances" of the highly competitive incentives game, explaining why a grant-based approach often serves the state better than massive tax credits. Tune in to discover how Tennessee is setting the stage for the next golden age of content creation!

Listeners will learn how a hyper-local retail experience in Gatlinburg provided the "engine of growth" for a global wholesale distribution network. Joe Baker, the "serial entrepreneur" behind Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Company, joins Cathy Ackerman to discuss his unconventional career path. Joe reveals the high-stakes risks of mortgaging his law office to fund a startup, the intense pressure of scaling up to meet Walmart's demands, and his strategic pivot into the hand sanitizer business during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also shares why he believes the relationship cultivated with customers at a physical location is the most powerful marketing tool a brand can possess. Hit play to hear Joe Baker’s masterclass on entrepreneurial resilience and brand loyalty.

Does a college degree really matter anymore? Dr. Philip Oldham, President of Tennessee Tech, argues that it's more vital than ever for quality of life and career longevity. Listeners will learn how Tennessee Tech focuses on student retention with simple, strategic interventions and prepares graduates for careers that may change eight times in their lifetime. In this episode, Dr. Philip Oldham shares his vision for Tennessee Tech, emphasizing affordability, the university's "real" personality, and its role as a "manufacturing facility for talent." Discover the success of their engineering programs, which produce a quarter of the state's engineers, and learn about the "Rural Reimagined" Grand Challenge that engages students and faculty in solving complex problems for rural communities. Hit play to discover how Tennessee Tech is bold, fearless, and confident in shaping the future of higher education—Wings Up!

What does it take for a state to not only attract global giants like Amazon and Facebook but also keep its established businesses thriving? Listeners will understand the complex interplay of workforce development, strategic infrastructure, and personal relationships that drive Tennessee's status as a top economic hub. In this episode, Cathy Ackerman sits down with Bob Rolfe, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Community and Economic Development. Bob explains why Tennessee is a "one-stop shop" for relocating businesses, detailing the state's strategic focus on being "business-friendly" through centralized points of contact for everything from infrastructure to permitting. He recounts the state’s success in attracting massive technology investments from Amazon, Facebook, and Google, while also highlighting the vital role of rural initiatives in reducing distressed counties. Discover how personal relationships and a commitment to workforce education, through programs like Tennessee Connect, are creating high-quality job opportunities across the state. Tune in to discover the strategy behind Tennessee's booming economic landscape—hit play now!

Listeners will gain an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous clinical trial process, moving past misinformation to understand the facts of vaccine research. Robin Wilhoit, anchor at WBIR-TV, joins Erin Freeman to discuss her decision to participate in Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine trial at the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Robin details the extensive screening process, the physical side effects she experienced, and the importance of journalistic transparency in documenting this historic scientific effort.

Why does a leading national healthcare consultant believe East Tennessee is on the verge of a cultural breakthrough? Ed Pershing shares how PYA evolved from a local accounting firm into a top-tier national consulting leader, and why he’s now focusing on regional advocacy and public policy. Ed Pershing, co-founder of PYA, joins the podcast to discuss his 36-year journey in professional services. He delves into the strategic creation of Teknovation to highlight local talent, the necessity of improved business acumen in healthcare, and the systemic challenges of affordability and accessibility. Ed also offers a behind-the-scenes look at PYA's national reach and his plans for "post-retirement" advocacy. Listen to the full episode to learn about the strategy behind one of the country's top healthcare consulting firms and the future of innovation in Tennessee.

What does it take to clean up 6 million square feet of the world's most hazardous buildings—and finish the job four years ahead of schedule? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll learn how Ken Rueter and the UCOR team turned a "troubled" federal project into a model of "Investment Worthy" performance, saving taxpayers $600 million while fueling a quarter-billion-dollar annual economic engine in East Tennessee. Ken Rueter, President and CEO of UCOR, dives deep into the high-stakes world of environmental remediation at the former K-25 gaseous diffusion plant in Oak Ridge. He breaks down the three mission pillars—cleanup for industrial reuse, conservation, and historic preservation—that are paving the way for the nation’s 409th National Park. Ken shares the secrets of UCOR’s "Culture of Excellence," a unique safety philosophy that has made the site five times safer than general industry, and explains how "shared governance" has fostered a powerful partnership between management and labor. From super-saturated sweet tea to the future of medical isotope production in North America, this conversation explores the intersection of world-class engineering and local community prosperity. Listen now to discover the strategy behind one of the most successful business turnarounds in federal contracting history.

What if the modern full-time ER doctor was an entirely new concept only 40 years ago? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll learn how Dr. Lynn Massingale and his partners transformed a local emergency medicine gap in East Tennessee into TeamHealth, one of the largest physician groups in the United States. Dr. Lynn Massingale, co-founder of TeamHealth, shares the strategic blueprint behind the company's massive growth—from its origins at UT Hospital in 1979 to seeing 28 million patients annually today. He dives deep into the "Culture of Excellence" that prioritizes patient care and clinician retention, explores the complex financial disputes with insurance payers regarding "surprise billing," and discusses the critical role of primary care in a successful healthcare system. Lynn also provides a candid look at the challenges facing rural hospitals and why he remains "bullish" on the future of personalized, high-quality medicine. Click play to hear the business and medical wisdom of one of Knoxville's most prominent corporate leaders.

What does it mean to truly "be a volunteer" at one of the country's most iconic universities? Chancellor Donde Plowman shares how she is shifting the University of Tennessee Knoxville from a reactive to a proactive institution, focusing on inclusivity and strategic community engagement. In her first few months as Chancellor, Dr. Plowman has prioritised listening to the campus community through open office hours and state-wide engagement. She discusses the university's 225-year legacy, the importance of its land-grant mission, and the unique competitive advantage offered by its proximity to Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Great Smoky Mountains. Listen to the full episode to discover how UT Knoxville is shaping the next decade of higher education in Tennessee.

What if the secret to building a world-class tourist attraction wasn't the artifacts themselves, but the stories you tell about them? In this milestone 10th episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll discover how Mary Kellogg Joslyn applied decades of high-level Disney and CBS experience to transform the historical tragedy of the Titanic into an immersive, multi-million dollar "museum attraction." Mary Kellogg Joslyn, President and COO of Titanic Museum Attractions, shares the strategic blueprint behind the ship's iconic design—leveraging the "nag factor" to capture the attention of families on the Parkway. She pulls back the curtain on her time at Disney and CBS, explaining how meticulous planning and an "employee-first" philosophy are vital to maintaining a high-quality guest experience. Mary also reveals the future of the attraction, including the highly anticipated arrival of the bandmaster's violin and new efforts to honor Jewish passengers through a dedicated kosher kitchen exhibit. Beyond the artifacts, the episode highlights the museum's profound community impact, from its unique autism-sensitive morning tours to its dedicated "Titanic College" for staff. Click play to learn how strategic storytelling and proactive management continue to keep history afloat in Pigeon Forge.

What if the key to your city's economic growth was hidden in its greenways and riverbanks? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll discover how a small but mighty nonprofit is transforming the East Tennessee landscape, turning natural assets into powerful drivers for workforce development and community livability. Carol Evans, Executive Director of the Legacy Parks Foundation, shares the organization's journey from a startup in a donated office to a regional leader in park development and land conservation. She defines her unique concept of community "connectedness" across literal, visual, economic, and emotional dimensions, explaining why businesses are now prioritizing quality of life as their top recruitment tool. From the ambitious "Knoxville to the Smokies" greenway vision to the grassroots energy of the Powell community's Beaver Creek project, Carol reveals how strategic partnerships—including a surprising collaboration with the Department of Energy—are making outdoor recreation accessible to everyone. Listen now to learn how Legacy Parks is building a lasting regional identity through the simple yet profound act of connecting people to the land.

What if a simple building filled with water could single-handedly revitalize a desolate downtown and generate over $100 million in annual economic impact? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll learn how the Tennessee Aquarium shifted from a bold 1990s vision to a global scientific leader, leveraging its unique freshwater mission to drive regional growth and conservation. Keith Sanford, President and CEO of the Tennessee Aquarium, explores the strategic pillars that make this institution an international standout. He details the aquarium's critical role in regional education, offering lifelike scientific experiences for thousands of schoolkids, and discusses the high-stakes work of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute. From the reintroduction of the nearly-extinct lake sturgeon to pioneering research on river microplastics, Keith provides a look into the future of scientific leadership in Chattanooga. He also shares personal insights from his own late-career transition from banking to the nonprofit world, emphasizing the importance of "animal-centric" culture and constant innovation in guest experience. Listen now to discover the business strategy and scientific heart behind one of the world's top-ranked aquariums.

What if the secret to a multi-million dollar sponsorship deal isn't a handshake, but a deep dive into data and analytics? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you’ll learn how the sports marketing landscape has transformed from a "gut feel" industry to a high-stakes arena of data-driven brand activations. Ed Willett, Vice President of Sponsorship at Topgolf Media, shares his journey through iconic media brands like Sports Illustrated and ESPN. He breaks down the current state of sports sponsorships, highlighting why massive activations—like American Express at the US Open—are now the benchmark for success. Ed offers a rare look behind the curtain of athlete endorsements in golf and basketball, explores the disruptive potential of legalized sports gambling, and explains how Topgolf is single-handedly lowering the barrier to entry for the next generation of golfers through innovative, shared experiences. Listen now to gain strategic insights into the future of sports marketing and the digital convergence of gaming and athletics.

What if the secret to doubling your company's assets isn't just about the numbers, but about telling your team exactly what's in your head? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll discover how a deliberate focus on "cultural sync" and associate engagement can fuel an aggressive growth strategy while maintaining an award-winning workplace. Billy Carroll, CEO of SmartBank, shares the journey of scaling a financial institution from a 2007 start-up in Pigeon Forge to a multi-billion dollar publicly traded company. He explains the necessity of scale in modern banking, his criteria for "smart" acquisitions, and the importance of shifting from purely transactional lending to trusted, long-term advisor relationships. Billy also provides a fascinating look behind the curtain of the Federal Reserve, detailing how anecdotal Main Street information directly influences national rate policy. Listen now to gain strategic insights into leadership, economic trends, and the power of a positive corporate culture.

What if the secret to building a global brand isn't just about what people see, but how they hear and interact with your mission? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you’ll learn how New York Public Radio’s CMO, Lisa Baird, leverages consumer insights to turn rigid corporate identities into accessible, mission-driven brands. Lisa Baird shares the blueprint behind the successful launch of the "Team USA" brand, explaining how she transitioned the Olympic identity from elite exclusivity to a broader, more inclusive experience for all Americans. She provides a deep dive into the changing media landscape at New York Public Radio, the fascinating influence of Twitch on traditional sports fandom, and why voice-activated technology is the next great frontier for marketers. From the globalization of soccer to the upcoming Dolly Parton’s America podcast, Lisa reveals how storytelling through audio creates a uniquely engaging connection between brands and their audiences. Listen now to discover the strategic thinking of one of marketing’s most innovative leaders.

In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, you'll learn how the "Academic Medical Center of the region" is bridging these gaps through a process called clinical integration—ensuring every provider, from EMS to rehab, follows a single, patient-centric plan. Joe Landsman, President and CEO of the University of Tennessee Medical Center, discusses the hospital's reputation as a Level 1 trauma hub and its evolving "quality journey." He breaks down the components of clinical integration, including evidence-based care plans, chronic illness management, and a unique medication management program designed to navigate Tennessee's high prescription rates. Joe also provides a look into the future of the campus, highlighting upcoming bed expansions and new academic fellowships intended to secure the region's healthcare workforce. Click play to discover the strategy behind East Tennessee's top-ranked healthcare employer.

Is cybersecurity actually as spooky as the industry makes it out to be? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, Tommy Smith sits down with Jeff Schmidt, CEO of Avertium, a newly formed powerhouse in the cyber defense space. Schmidt breaks down the complex world of data protection into a pragmatic, manageable framework that even small to mid-market businesses can master. Listeners will learn about the strategic merger behind Avertium, the rising threat of GDPR fines in industries like hospitality, and why "built-in" security is the only way forward for the Internet of Things. Jeff shares his vision for a safety-first company culture—where employees aren't afraid to report a clicked link—and why the best security strategies start at the board level. Whether you're curious about hackers or the future of autonomous vehicle safety, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at how businesses can stay safe without deterring growth. Click play to discover how Avertium is turning cyber defense into a "muscle memory" for organizations nationwide.

What if your city’s best assets are already right under your nose, waiting to be unlocked? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, Tommy Smith sits down with Mike Odom, the new President and CEO of the Knoxville Chamber, to discuss why Knoxville might be on the verge of its own "crystallizing moment" similar to the tech boom that transformed Austin. Listeners will learn about the strategic blueprints of successful tech hubs, the importance of regional economic alignment, and why Knoxville possesses more raw assets than Austin did 40 years ago. Mike shares insights from his time in Central Texas, exploring the "parallel" growth of companies like Dell and the deliberate community leadership required to diversify a modern economy. This episode dives into the communication challenges of regional organizations, the balance between showing value and staying humble, and Mike's personal transition to Knoxville. Click play to discover the strategy behind Knoxville's bright economic future and what it takes to drive true regional prosperity.

What happens when the leader of a multi-campus university system decides that success should be measured by who you let in, not who you keep out? In this episode of Sweet Tea and Strategy, Cathy Ackerman sits down with Randy Boyd, president of the University of Tennessee, to explore the bold strategic vision currently transforming the UT system. Listeners will learn about the "UT Promise"—a groundbreaking initiative offering free tuition to qualifying Tennessee students—and how the University is leveraging its partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to become a global leader in artificial intelligence and quantum communications. Randy shares the personal "why" behind his transition from the gubernatorial trail to the president's office, driven by a desire to give back to his alma mater. The conversation dives into the "Students First" culture, the power of the "Transparent UT" initiative, and the surprising ways the university impacts all 95 counties of Tennessee. Click play to hear how the University of Tennessee is honoring its land-grant roots while building a world-class future for every Tennessean.