This Is Nashville

Where do you go after reaching the pinnacle of your profession? What if you were forced out of that job? For former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, his second act steered him to academia. In 2014, he moved to Middle Tennessee to become dean of a law school that was just getting off the ground at Belmont University. In this episode, the Honorable Alberto Gonzales in a live, career-spanning interview – from the child of migrant workers in Humble, Texas, to the most powerful attorney in America, to making a new life in Nashville.This episode was produced by Blake Farmer. 

A review by the non-profit Nashville Police and Public Safety Alliance reveals nine of Nashville's geographic, demographic, and economic peer cities –– including Austin, Denver, and Charlotte –– are using policing technologies far more extensively than we are.Even cities in our surrounding counties, such as Mt. Juliet, have adopted technologies like license plate readers, drones and real-time video and data integration platforms. Today we look at how law, policy and rural-urban divide shape the adoption of this technology. How do we balance the adoption of this new and emerging tech while protecting the right to privacy and due process?We also have phones and livestream open as well. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 or watch and chime in on YouTube.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini & Emily West.Guests: Emily Benedict, Metro Councilmember, District 7 Greg Blair, Deputy Chief, MNPD Matthew Guariglia, senior policy analyst, Electronic Frontier Foundation Emily West, Criminal Justice Reporter, WPLN

Primary elections for governor, the Tennessee State House, and congressional seats are just around the corner, with early voting beginning Friday. That means it’s time to start paying attention — not just to the names on the ballot, but to the races that will shape the state for years to come.Whether you follow politics every day or are afraid to look at your ballot, our goal is to make the election a little easier to understand before you head to the polls.Guests: Marianna Bacallao, state legislative reporter, WPLN Dr. Ian Shapiro, political scientist, Tennessee State University Eli Motycka, reporter, Nashville Scene

Like we need one more thing to worry about. Microplastics are showing up in high levels in Middle Tennessee.The Cumberland River is at the top end of American rivers. The Tennessee River is off the charts. Ok, how concerned should we be? We’re going to discuss with some experts as well as talk about cutting back on how much plastic we’re using – wouldn’t hurt, right? We’ll open the phones as well as tee up the YouTube livestream. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 or watch on YouTube here. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests  Dr. Eva Parker, VUMC Dermatologist Ryan Jackwood, Harpeth River Conservancy Director of Watershed Science Stephanie Roach, Urban Green Lab Assistant Director of Special Initiatives

Justin Lee Williams didn’t set out to become an in-demand line dancing instructor.Actually, it was a real estate career that didn’t quite materialize, resulting in a fall-back job at a Boot Barn with a side gig teaching bachelorettes to boot, scoot and boogie. Then came the viral video shared by Shania Twain, and the rest has been a rocketship ride.Nothing gets timid dancers out onto a vacant dance floor like a well-known line dance so, today we're learning how a Black man from Pulaski saw an opening to bring us together over scissor steps and shuffles.

As the cost of home ownership grows beyond the reach of a single family, multiple generations are finding ways to live together and split that mortgage.Cohabitating sure has its benefits, but nothing is perfect. In this episode, we speak with real estate agents, city planners and locals with lived experience about the ups and downs of having two or more generations under one roof. We're also taking your calls. So, if you have your own experience to share, you can reach us during the live show at 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube livestream.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.Guests: Liz Bottiggi and Lesa Cannon, North Nashville Residents Greg Claxton, Metro Nashville City Planner Kristen Darden, Real Estate Agent Kay Bowers, Nesterly Community Liaison

How do we honor people who were enslaved when the enslavers are at the center of so much of our history?For generations, Nashville’s portrayals of its Black history has lacked accuracy, as institutions have shied away from the legacy of American slavery.Today, we look at three well-known historical sites in Middle Tennessee: The Hermitage, Fort Negley and Travellers Rest. All have made recent efforts to adjust how they portray their history — but not everyone is satisfied with the approach.This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams.Guests: Jamel Campbell-Gooch, community organizer and descendant of Esquire Hayes, who was enslaved at The Hermitage Dr. Aisha Francis, president of Franklin Cummings Tech and descendant of Hiram and Eveline Overton, who were enslaved at Travellers Rest Dr. Angela Sutton, Vanderbilt historian who studies Fort Negley Eola Lewis Dance, ethnohistorian and former CEO of James Madison’s Montpelier

The tank is full. The open road calling.Before you hit the highway, though, you have to make a few decisions about what you want to see, how much you can spend to get there and where to stop for snacks.Today, we look at the economics of a road trip: the local, national, and global events and factors driving gas prices; how places like Buc-ee's (aka the “Beaver Industrial Complex”) and Dolly's Travel Stop drive business beyond the pump; and what's new to see and do in Tennessee.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests: Megan Cooper, AAA spokesperson Chason Gordon, Texas Brands Reporter for Chron.com Jill Kilgore, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Daniel J Smith, Professor of Economics & Director Political Economy Research Institute, MTSU

A quote got back to Allison Russell from her daughter talking to the daughter of another artist: My mommy “just sings sad songs about her sad past.” She did win a GRAMMY for a song she describes as an open letter to her adopted father — a white supremacist — who abused her throughout her childhood. “Do you hate, or do you lust?” she sings in "Eve was Black."Always attuned to prophetic words, she accepted the challenge.On her new album releasing July 10, Allison Russell remains perfectly poignant but a bit more playful. She even includes her daughter’s school choir from the Explore! Community School in East Nashville on the first track.There's only one track on "In the Hour of Chaos" that doesn't include at least one collaborator, which is no surprise to Nashville Public Radio's senior music writer Jewly Hight, who calls Russell "the consummate collaborator." Aside from the school choir, Norah Jones, Devon Gilfillian, Joy Oladokun, Brittney Spencer and Sara Watkins all appear on the new album.Russell calls her circle of friends and collaborators "the Rainbow Coalition." And as you'll learn in this interview, you may already be part of the coalition and just don't know it yet.

Nationally, sparkler injuries accounted for 1,700 ER visits in 2024. This year, without much debate, the state legislature passed a new law this year allowing convenience stores to sell sparklers year round. Today we spend some time talking about fireworks safety and alternatives to pyrotechnics—including swarm drones in Clarksville.And we’re prepping for tonight’s hike in Shelby Bottoms for World UFO Day. Is actual nightlife may be more interesting than the UFO encounters? Plus, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell is attempting to use eminent domain to kill an AI data center planned near the Nashville Zoo. We get the latest details and delve into the politics that might be motivating this unprecedented move.Guests: Caroline Eggers, environmental reporter, WPLN Stephen Elliott, metro reporter, Nashville Banner Michael Hunter, Clarksville Parks and Recreation Hazel Miller, naturalist, Shelby Bottoms Nature Center Dr. Anne Wagner, director, Vanderbilt Burn Center

It's been twenty years since the first Music City Hot Chicken Festival. Today, we get a little spicy with founder former mayor Bill Purcell and second generation proprietor of Prince’s Hot Chicken Andre Prince.Plus, retiring state house representative Caleb Hemmer joins for an exit interview. And Anita Wadhwani shares the latest on sick and disabled kids with questionable immigration status being turned over to authorities. A judge considers their fate this week.Live streaming available at youtube.com/@wpln and at wpln.org. All episodes also available through our podcast feed.Guests: Rep. Caleb Hemmer (D-59), Tennessee State House Andre Prince, second-generation proprietor, Prince’s Hot Chicken Bill Purcell, former mayor, founder Nashville Hot Chicken festival Anita Wadhwani, senior reporter, Tennessee Lookout

 A batch of new laws take effect July 1, including rules that will reshape Tennessee's burgeoning hemp business. Many hemp producers are heading to friendlier states, but one explains why he's committed to stay despite tighter restrictions on THC.We drop in on Monday night's town hall organized by the NAACP Nashville chapter about the data center planned for Fisk University's historic campus. Some attendees left with more questions than answers, irritated that organizers did not allow the audience to speak.And we remember two community members who made an outsized impact. Nashville hip-hop artist Daisha McBride memorializes her friend, hit producer Tay Keith, with the mid-flight backstory of her "Birds" remix. And retired journalist Dwight Lewis details the contributions of Tennessee Tribune founder Rosetta Miller-Perry.Stream live at youtube.com/@wpln and wpln.org. The podcast is available after the live show airs.Guests: Marianna Bacallao, state legislative reporter, WPLN Camellia Burris, education reporter, WPLN Matthew Chapman, president and CTO, LabCanna Dwight Lewis, retired journalist

If you are taking care of a child and you have a parent over 65, you’re among millions across the U.S. in the same life stage.Nearly a quarter of all American adults — and half of all adults in their 40s — fall into this “sandwich generation” category, according to Pew research. And being in the middle of that sandwich can feel ... intense.HealthQ hosts Cara Anthony of KFF Health News and Blake Farmer of Nashville Public Radio, both in the sandwich generation themselves, are your approachable guides to an unapproachable healthcare system. In this one-hour special about navigating health and caregiving, they tap researchers, physicians, experts, and their own personal experience to explore: Identity: When to start calling yourself a caregiver, and why it matters. FMLA: How to start a conversation with your boss about taking federally protected leave from work. Kids and mental health: How to know it’s time to take an anxious child to therapy. Early-onset cancer: What you need to know about spotting diseases that are on the rise among people under 50. The HealthQ team acknowledges the messiness, the humor, and the beauty of this season of life. Come on the journey with us.Guests: Denise Brown, caregiving coach and founder of Caregiving Years Training Academy in Illinois Jocelyn Frye, president of the National Partnership for Women & Families in Washington, D.C. Paris Goodyear-Brown, licensed clinical social worker in Franklin, Tennessee Dr. Veda Giri, director of the Early Onset Cancer Program at Yale Cancer Center This installment is part of HealthQ’s reporting on caregiving among the sandwich generation. For more, check out the series wpln.org/healthq.HealthQ is a health series from reporters Cara Anthony and Blake Farmer, approachable guides to an unapproachable healthcare system. It’s a collaboration between Nashville Public Radio and KFF Health News.

Pride Month brings rainbow flags, parades, and celebration. But for many queer people in Middle Tennessee, it also raises a more complicated question: where do you actually belong the other eleven months of the year?Nashville has a long history of gathering places where queer residents can find community, visibility, and refuge. Some have endured for decades. Others have quietly faded or been displaced. The losses ripple through the communities that depend on them.Today we look past the festivities to examine something more fundamental: what it means for a space to feel safe, why these spaces matter so deeply to LGBTQ+ communities, and what is lost when they disappear. What emerges is a portrait of community infrastructure that often goes unacknowledged until it's gone—and what it takes to build it, sustain it, and fight for it.This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi.Guests: Sarah Calise, curator of Community Histories, Vanderbilt University Archives; founder, Nashville Queer History Project Ashley Hampton, executive director, Healing in the Margins; founder and clinical director at Hampton House Jerry Ivery, CEO, MashUp!

America's independence turns 250 this year, and the country is abuzz with commemorations, flags flying, and patriotic-fueled pride.But as we mark this milestone, what else should we be talking about? Our Roundabout panel, representing perspectives from across the political spectrum, examines the foundational issues America continues to grapple with, as well as the America 250 headlines making news today.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests: Maryam Abolfazli, former congressional candidate and founder of Rise & Shine TN Levi Ismail, Emmy-award winning journalist, NewsChannel 5’s investigative unit Chris Walker, founding partner, The Poplar Group

Maybe you get overwhelmed at the enormity of climate change and the effects on our environment. But try not to despair. Today we’re talking about the little things anyone can do. And it starts with simply keeping our eyes open, noticing and documenting what we see. We’re watching for our signal species — getting an introduction to iNaturalist and gathering inspiration from the folks who already keep a close eye on our flora and fauna. Now your video of a bear strolling through the neighborhood can be good for more than a bunch of views on Instagram.Contribute your observations on nature around you by joining our Appalachian Signal Species collection project on iNaturalist.GuestsArya Natarajan, senior communications manager, iNaturalistTony Gonzalez, news director, WPLNMegan Jones, digital editor, WPLNMargaret Renkl, author, The Weedy GardenSandy Obodzinski, executive director, Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary

Love, romance and intimacy can look very different in the second half of life — no matter your gender or sexuality. Today we get stories of gay men growing older together, a trans woman from Coffee County finally living in full expression after a huge loss and a woman with her own coming out story who is now coaching people later in life on how to get through the messy middle and beyond.Throughout a lifetime, one hope is that we never stop growing into ourselves — evolving as we know more, overcome more and love more. On today’s episode of NextAge, we talk with leaders in our LGBTQ+ community to learn how we can become more resilient and kind to ourselves and those around us. Especially in the face of mighty hurdles.Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.Guests• Dwayne Jenkins, Nashville Black Pride, Nashville Cares, Brothers United• Ginger Cutrell, transgender community advocate• Anne-Marie Zanzal, Coming Out Coach

Tech developer DC Blox has filed permit applications for a tentacular data center to be built right next to the Nashville Zoo. A 'Quantum Leap' data center is underway on Fisk University's campus.These constructions have seemingly started to pop up nationwide. And they were showing no sign of slowing. That is, until the public had something to say about it. Americans from all political walks of life are protesting the sudden mitosis of these mysterious buildings. A petition opposing the data center by the Zoo has garnered over 400,000 signatures.Still, questions remain: are they harmful to the surrounding ecosystem? Are they loud? Are they creating jobs? Are they taking jobs away?On today's Roundabout edition, our panel is here to answer your questions. Call in with your thoughts and concerns at 615-760-2000 or comment on the YouTube livestream.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Caroline Eggers, WPLN Environmental Reporter Timothy Hughes, NCAA Nashville Chapter President Dodd Galbreath, Lipscomb University Environmental Science Professor Kelly Puente, Investigative Reporter, The Tennessean 

The descendants of the American Revolution are the keepers of our personal histories, saving the stories of ancestors whom time might have forgotten.Two hundred and fifty years ago, when the Declaration of Independence was signed, Tennessee was the rugged Western frontier. Yet, the brave individuals who fought for freedom left a legacy that lives on through local families today. Today, we share some of their historical journeys. Plus, we connect with modern-day patriots in our communities and visit local grant-funded projects marking the 250th anniversary — including a community-staged historical play. Join us as we explore patriotism, then and now.Guests Julie Brymer, Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Chair, Public Relations & Media; member, General Daniel Smith's Rock Castle Chapter DAR Jack Emmert, member, Maj. David Wilson Chapter Sons of the American Revolution Robin Emmert,  member, Margaret Gaston Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution Mesut Keklik, entrepreneur, founder/director of Kurdish Culture & Music Association Anne G'fellers Mason, playwright and director, “The First and Last Town in Tennessee" Miro Rengin, entrepreneur; member of Nashville's kurdish community

Have you ever looked closely at your Tennessee driver's license? There might be something surprising in the fine print.Curious Nashville listener Sam Barocas used his microscope to find it. And then he asked the question that inspired today's show: Why is there a microscopic typo on the Tennessee driver's license?In some instances — likely on millions of licenses — a thin ribbon of text reads "The Volundeer State." With a 'd.'"And I saw that and I was like, 'Huh? That's funny,' " Barocas says. "How'd that happen?"Among the theories: It's a genuine mistake. It's an intentional security feature. It's an easter egg tucked in by a mischievous designer. WPLN's Justin Barney helps Curious Nashville get to the bottom of this mystery. Then we’re staying on the theme of "microscopic Nashville," and learning from experts about other parts of our community that are hiding in plain sight. Justin Barney, culture and music reporter, Nashville Public Radio Dr. Eva Parker, expert on climate change’s impact on health and assistant professor of dermatology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center Ross Andrew, associate professor of biology at Belmont University

Long before she ever heard of Hatch Show Print, Celene Aubry fell in love with letterpress printing.Fascinated by the smell of ink, the feel of paper, the hand-carved wood type, and the big machines that churn out poster after poster, she spent her spare time learning about it while working a marketing day job in Chicago. What began as a passion led to where she is now: the first woman director of Hatch Show Print, Nashville’s 147-year-old printing institution. In this episode, Celene shares how her interest in letterpress printmaking became a career, and how she now stewards a legendary shop whose iconic posters have promoted everyone from Dolly Parton and Bill Monroe to nearly every artist who takes the stage at the Ryman Auditorium.

Healthcare is all about who is going to pay for it. Because if you can’t afford to go to the doctor, you probably won’t until it becomes an emergency – which isn’t good for the patient or the system. This is a particular problem in rural Tennessee. When there’s a hiccup in the system, rural systems may shutter.Healthcare Hollow is a WPLN series that takes an in-depth look at the crisis of rural hospital closings.In this episode, we’re focused on who is going to pay for care in rural Tennessee. Those residents are more likely to rely on TennCare (the state’s version of federal Medicaid). Post-COVID policy changes have resulted in more people losing TennCare coverage. At the same time, fewer people are keeping insurance under the Affordable Care Act because of the expense.This episode is part of our Healthcare Hollow series, made possible, in part, by the NIHCM Foundation.GuestsGordon Bonnyman, staff attorney & co-founder, Tennessee Justice CenterJackie Shrago, ACA marketplace volunteer navigatorSarah Boden, independent healthcare journalist with KFFKelly Insana, vice president of marketing & communications, Tennessee Hospital Association

“All-American Girl.”“God Bless the U.S.A.”“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.”You'll hear these songs many times this summer as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary. But those aren't everyone's anthems.In Nashville, a group of musicians and songwriters are responding to this milestone with something different: unfiltered reflections on what it means to exist in America as Black, Brown, and Queer people living in the South. Through their music, visuals, fashion and performance, they are defining and embracing — or rejecting — American identity and patriotism on their own terms.Guests The Cowgays (Chris Housman, Brooke Eden & Adam Mac) Jewly Hight, senior music writer, Nashville Public Radio Kapali Long, Native Hawaiian Americana Country Blues artist & songwriter Lizzie No, producer, guitarist and harpist Tray Wellington, folk, bluegrass, jazz and contemporary roots music banjo innovator

With one of the oldest tracks in America, racing is part of our city's fabric as one of Nashville's earliest professional sports.Even as diehard fans say it’s time to invest in our history, the sound of the cars has become an unwelcome neighbor amid rapid development south of downtown. Whether you’re a fan or not, it’s worth understanding this deep legacy as we make decisions about the future. Today, we're revving up to chase down our racing roots.And, we want to hear from you. Have you seen fandom fading? What explains that? What got you into racing in the first place? What’s the importance of having a track in the heart of the city? We’re taking your calls during the show at 615-760-2000. You can also send your thoughts through our livestream.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.Guests Larry Woody, retired sports reporter Gary Baker, former owner, Bristol Motor Speedway Joseph Love, painter

With Father's Day on the horizon, two dads join us to share their perspectives on love, loss, priorities and fatherhood.After David Fischette stepped away from the day-to-day grind of running his business, he began walking 10,000 steps a day as a personal health challenge. Before long, the habit evolved into a series of “walk and talk” videos exploring themes of love, loss, priorities and codependency, and eventually into Hello Fine Friends, a book that, in part, reflects on his efforts to repair his fractured relationship with his daughters.Then, fatherhood is a public health issue for Robert Taylor. He spent the last few years helping fathers change a few more diapers, and more importantly, see themselves as more than providers. He leads the New Life Center, which has produced a documentary called Fatherhood Beyond the Frame.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Blake Farmer.Guests: David Fischette, founder, Go West Creative; author, Hello Fine Friends Robert Taylor, founder and president, New Life Center

CMA Fest is upon us. How you feel about that will inform whether or not you're hitting up Broadway this weekend.But the festival has a storied past in Nashville, and so do the iconic cowboy boots both fans and performers wear when attending. For this episode, we'll have historians and writers, as well as a seasoned CMA performer and a full-time bootmaker.What's more—we want to hear from you. The number to call in and talk about your boot experiences is 615-760-2000. You can also pop into the chat on our YouTube stream live during the show.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Jewly Hight, WPLN Senior Music Writer Holly George-Warren, Music Historian and Writer Angie K., Country Music Artist Lisa Sorrell, Bootmaker

This summer, much of the nation is commemorating 1776, the year the Thirteen Colonies declared their independence from Great Britain. Tennessee would not become a state for another two decades, but the region that would one day become our Volunteer State was already a place of profound change and activity located on what the founders considered the western frontier.Each Wednesday this month, we're exploring the 250th anniversary of American independence from a different perspective. Today, we explore the Middle Tennessee of 1776. We're examining life on the frontier through the eyes of indigenous people who were here at the time and long before as well as the white settlers trying to expand America’s borders and the enslaved people they forced into frontier life.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests Paul Clements, author, Chronicles of the Cumberland Settlements; authority on early settlement life Rob McDonald, Jr., filmmaker, photographer, creator of documentary about James Robertson - founder of Nashville - Native Son: The Untold Story of James Robertson Dr. Raymond Orr, professor of Political Science at UC Santa Barbara; member of the Potawatomi Nation in Oklahoma Dr. Kristofer Ray, associate professor of Early American and Indigenous History at the College of the Holy Cross Dr. Learotha Williams, Jr., professor of African American History, Tennessee State University; North Nashville Heritage Project, Davidson County Historian

We’re surrounded by wildlife that tells us something about our ecosystem if we’ll take just a moment to stop and smell the roses (or, in this case, take a gander at the kudzu). With our partners in the Appalachia + Mid-South Newsroom, we’re investigating so-called “signal species," starting with the lovable black bear. As their population has rebounded, so have human interactions – both positive and negative.Guests Caroline Eggers, WPLN environmental reporter John Boyle, deputy managing editor, Appalachia + Mid-South Newsroom Janelle Musser, black bear support biologist, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Mark Thurman, director of conservation collaboratives in Tennessee, The Nature Conservancy

Jim Palmer was a crusader for Christianity.He accepted the calling in East Tennessee, went to seminary, and started preaching in one of the largest mega churches in the country. He moved to Nashville to start an offshoot. But then things started to unravel. Faith turned to doubt and then to deconstruction. He was into deconstruction before it was cool, and now he sits down with us to talk about how he's guiding others who are figuring out what’s next after Christianity.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guest Jim Palmer, Post-Religion Spiritual Director and founder of The Center for Non-Religious Spirituality

It takes more than 500 pages for Lamar Alexander to tell the story of his political career, and that’s understandable given his 26 years as Tennessee governor and U.S. senator.We’ll dig into some untold stories from his new memoir, “The Education of a Senator,” which landed on the New York Times Best Seller list this week and we’ll also get his take on the current state of affairs in American politics and take your questions. So, if you’d like to ask a question or comment, join us on air at 615-760-2000 or in the chat at youtube.com/@wpln.Then, we’ll wrap this episode with a timely update on congressional redistricting which turns Tennessee’s last remaining seat held by a Democrat into one that leans Republican.  Guests Lamar Alexander, former U.S. senator, Tennessee governor, U.S. Education Secretary and president of the University of Tennessee Josh Clinton, Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions, Vanderbilt University Marianna Bacallao, WPLN power and equity reporter

Once again, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins This Is Nashville live on the air to answer your questions.From traffic headaches and development concerns to parks, transit, and public safety, this is your opportunity to speak directly with the mayor. What’s going on in your neighborhood that city leaders need to hear about?We’ll also dive into some of the biggest issues facing the city right now – including the budget, taxes, and major building projects shaping Nashville’s future.Stay with us after the mayor and we’ll explore why one local school still bears the name of a segregationist – and why changing that name has proven nearly impossible. We're wrapping the hour with our latest installment of Curious Nashville.Guests Freddie O’Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Camellia Burris, education reporter, WPLN Larry Woods, civil rights attorney and professor of criminal justice, Tennessee State University

Nashville is still stepping onto the global stage during the World Cup.Years ago, uncertainty surrounding the future of Nissan Stadium kept Nashville from becoming a host city. Still, the tournament is bringing an international spotlight to Music City in another way: Samurai Blue, Japan’s national team, has chosen Nashville as its basecamp during the competition.Today, we hear a preview of the players and the competition and what it takes to host a world-class team. We’ll also explore Nashville’s decades-long relationship with Japan – a connection that dates back to the late 1970s, when Gov. Lamar Alexander helped recruit Nissan to build its first American manufacturing plant here.This episode was produced by Justin Barney.Guests Mike Woitalla, executive editor, Soccer America Teresa Tatlonhari, VP of Marketing & Communications, Nashville Soccer Club Mina Johnson, former Councilmember, Metro Nashville Masami Tyson, chief of staff, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell

We’ve done enough tapdancing around touchy words in this important conversation about intimacy and romance in the second half of life.It’s time to hear you do it. What have you learned about your body or being with another that could help the rest of us? We’ll have a sex therapist, a reformed pastor and an open-minded geriatrician in the studio. Call ahead of the show with your intimacy insights or romance recommendations at 615-760-2000. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Raven O'Rourke, Geriatric Sex Therapist James Powers, VUMC Gerontologist Jim Palmer, former Megachurch Pastor

Menopause is having a moment! After generations of misunderstanding, myths and mockery, menopause and perimenopause is starting to get the attention and support it deserves. And no wonder: in the United States, about 6,000 women enter menopause each day, according to scientific data. In this episode of NextAge Season 2, we’re joining the conversation. You'll hear from some of familiar on-air hosts here at Nashville Public Radio about their experiences and medical experts who specialize in menopause healthcare.Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.This episode was hosted and produced by LaTonya Turner.Guests: Nina Cardona, Morning Edition Host, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Jude Mason, Mid-day Host, WNXP Radio Leigh Mayo, Account Manager, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Megan Jones, Digital Editor, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Dr. William Lee, Associate Professor Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt Medical Center; certified menopause practitioner  Anne-Ward Eshelman - Nurse Practitioner at HaneyGYN

It’s not that what we learned about the birds and the bees was all wrong. It’s just that it was mostly about procreation and – more likely – focused on how not to make a baby before the time is right. As we've learned in this season of NextAge, baby making and physical intimacy are not the same thing, and that’s especially apparent in the second half of life. In this episode, we bring you the birds and the bees for those who’ve been around the block. It may be a useful discussion for all of us, no matter our age.Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.Guests: Jill Danford, MD, board-certified urogynecologist, Ascension Saint Thomas Melissa Kaufman, MD, PhD, urology professor, Vanderbilt

We’re kicking off Week 2 of our NextAge season on romance, intimacy and our bodies with one of our city’s most interesting citizens: George Rowe. A man who has lived many lives.He’s been a Christian music recording artist with a big publishing deal. He’s been an attorney. And now he heads the Nashville office of Compass Realtors. He’s also lived the life of the stereotypical nuclear American family with his wife and three kids — until something had to change.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. NextAge is made possible in part by BlueCross BlueShield of TennesseeGuest George Rowe, Compass Real Estate principal broker

Love, romance and intimacy can look very different in the second half of life — no matter your gender or sexuality. Today we get stories of gay men growing older together, a trans woman from Coffee County finally living in full expression after a huge loss and a woman with her own coming out story who is now coaching people later in life on how to get through the messy middle and beyond.Throughout a lifetime, one hope is that we never stop growing into ourselves — evolving as we know more, overcome more and love more. On today’s episode of NextAge, we talk with leaders in our LGBTQ+ community to learn how we can become more resilient and kind to ourselves and those around us. Especially in the face of mighty hurdles.Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.Guests• Dwayne Jenkins, Nashville Black Pride, Nashville Cares, Brothers United• Ginger Cutrell, transgender community advocate• Anne-Marie Zanzal, Coming Out Coach

Second half of life companionship may look a lot different than the first. Procreation is off the table, merging households holds new logistical challenges, and there’s often grown children with strong opinions to consider. Whether it’s through death, divorce, or another kind of shift, love, intimacy and romance change as we age. And for many who end relationships that started in the first half of life, what they want out of the second looks very different. Our guests on the show today have, to quote the great Joni Mitchell, seen love from both sides now. They’ve been in love. They’ve been alone. They’ve got mixed feelings and find the beauty in it all. NextAge season 2 continues.Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.Guests• Barb Opyt, Learning and Development consultant• Angela Hobbs, retired trainer• Philip Tulimieri, author

NextAge Season 2, our series on romance and intimacy in the second half of life, continues with a deep dive on technology and dating apps. Smart phones, tablets and computers, social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, and online dating apps like OurTime, SilverSingles, and SeniorMatch help a growing number of seniors find companionship and keep connected with family. However, entering into the digital world isn’t always simple. So how are older adults learning to navigate these platforms? How do they build confidence online? How do we all keep up with constant tech changes — and stay safe?As more seniors explore dating later in life, are these apps working to meet everyone's needs? Today we get some professional advice, tech support, and a safety briefing – all while hearing the good, bad, and in between of the new state of dating.You can join in on the conversation during the noon hour on our YouTube livestream. Listen now to aired episodes of NextAge on our website.This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.Guests Julie Grower, dating app user Chuck Taylor, dating app user June Moore, particpant, Seniors on the Move, Tech Goes Home Dr. Jess Carbino, sociologist; relationship & online dating expert Breana Clark, MSW, program Manager, Senior Renaissance Center Rachel Solava, outreach and advocacy manager, Digital Literacy for Seniors, Greater Nashville Regional Council

Today we kick off NextAge Season 2, a series focused on romance, intimacy, and relationships in the second half of life, with a personal and hilarious conversation with Brenda Kay and Sheri Lynn, the purveyors of NashTrash Tours.For nearly 30 years, Brenda Kay and Sheri Lynn, also known as the Jugg Sisters, have been carting tourists and locals alike around town, showing off the city with their comedy show on wheels. Known for their wigs, makeup, and over-the-top humor, the pair prove that the characters on the big pink bus aren’t far from the real thing: authentic, fearless, and hilarious. Today, the real-life sisters open up about love, aging, intimacy, and things many of us still laugh nervously about discussing out loud.Please note: This episode contains candid conversations about intimacy, aging and physiology that may not be suitable for younger listeners.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.NextAge is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee

Opryland has been closed for nearly 30 years, and as the producer of a new documentary puts it, some people are still “butt hurt” about it. Maybe we didn’t know what we had until it left a theme park-size hole in Nashville’s heart. A documentary premiering at the Nashville Film Festival, called “A Circle Broken,” gives us a good excuse to reopen that wound and hear the story of Opryland like we’ve not heard before, a story about how perhaps Opryland saved the Grand Ole Opry itself. We’re talking to the characters who are keeping the memory alive and hearing your memories of Opryland USA.Guests: Brandon Vestal, filmmaker David Ewing, historian Bob Whitaker, former Opryland General Manager Michael-Demby Cain, Opryland performer who went to Broadway Jennifer Roberts, performer Lynn Wright, half of first couple married at Opryland Sean Hughes, “The Balloon Guy”

The job market seems to be on the downturn, especially if you’re a young person.College graduates are scrambling to get their hands on just about any kind of job — but there are still sectors that need professionals, and schools are listening. Today, we hear some hope from some fresh journalism graduates. Then we'll talk with a graduate of Lipscomb's Accelerated Nursing program to see how she’s holding up in the workforce, and we'll wrap the show learning how Nashville Software School is changing software engineering and addressing AI.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Seth Thorpe, Belmont '26 Terry Prude, TSU '26 Chelsia Harris, Lipscomb University Executive Director of Nursing Peyton Smith, Lipscomb Accelerated Nursing Program Graduate '25 Kate Rogers, Nashville Software School Program Director Ava Dominie, Nashville Software School Graduate

It’s tough to be a kid. It’s tough to be a parent of a kid. And nothing is tougher than when a kid is having a tough time. May is a month set aside for Mental Health Awareness, but it’s always a good time to visit the resources available to children – from disruptive toddlers to teens in a life-and-death crisis. Tennessee has been expanding its no-cost services, but sometimes they're hidden in plain sight. Plus, an interview with musician Mo Sabri about "Tennessee Desi," a project that fuses Appalachian country and south Asian Qawwali in an upcoming performance with the Nashville Symphony. Guests: Melissa Binkley, director of infant and early childhood initiatives, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Melissa Bayless, technical assistance coordinator, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Diana Jackson, nursing director, Mental Health Cooperative Mo Sabri, musician

Business licenses, marriage licenses, license plates.For some of us, this is our primary interaction with local government – standing in line, navigating the system. In Tennessee, it’s the job of the county clerk to keep those lines moving, or, increasingly, figure out how you don’t have to wait in a line at all. Today, we bring you a timely profile interview with the outgoing Davidson County Clerk, Brenda Wynn. Because we’re electing a new clerk tomorrow, we’ll talk about what she’s learned in 14 years as our line leader and hear her own story from growing up in public housing and becoming a teen mother to beating the odds through serving this city.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Brenda Wynn, Davidson County Clerk

The dust is starting to settle after the annual whirlwind that is the final days of the legislative session at the Tennessee State Capitol.Today we take you inside the halls of power to wrap-up. We hear from reporters who offer their insights into what passed and why, what failed and what might surface again in 2027. From school vouchers and immigration policy to preempting local laws, what were the predominant issues and political dynamics that shaped the laws — and will shape our state’s future? And we want to hear from you: How would you rate legislative performance? Were your priorities addressed? If not, what do you want from lawmakers next year? Join the conversation by calling 615-760-2000 or chiming in on the chat on our live YouTube stream.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests Marianna Bacallao, State Legislature reporter, WPLN Sarah Grace Taylor, Statehouse reporter, Nashville Banner Vivian Jones, State government and politics reporter, Tennessean

As usual, it all starts with a question to Curious Nashville:"I live in East Nashville, on Sharpe Avenue. We adopted a hound mix and she digs up bizarre trash. Did people bury their trash? Was there no trash pick up? Auto parts, beer bottles, air gun cartridges, porn videos. Others in East have described similar experiences."We've learned this is not an isolated experience. You folks are obsessed with what you find in the dirt. So, why do we dig what we dig? We're unearthing some answers.The phone lines and our live stream are open for this one. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube stream.Guests:• Whit Hill, metal detectorist, musician• Matt Pilcher, landscaper, Gardens of Babylon• Benjamin C. Nance, Cultural Resource Consultant Manager, Tennessee Division of Archaeology

Our need and desire for connection doesn’t retire as we grow older. NextAge Season 2 explores love, intimacy, and companionship in the second half of life.Through personal stories and expert insight, we’re covering topics from digital dating, sex, and changing bodies to medical myths, healing psyches and long-held identities finally coming into full expression. Today's episode kicks off another season of our special series featuring stories and information about growing older in the 21st century — and how Middle Tennesseans are reframing aging. In Tennessee, our population that’s 60-plus now includes the oldest GenXers and is projected to grow by 30% in the next 15 years. Today, we review some of the stories and topics from last year and how it led to new reporting on  what it means to keep falling in love with others — and ourselves.Guests: LaTonya Turner, news editor & on-air host, WPLN News Natasha Senjanovic, journalist & contributing producer

We call ourselves Music City.But for a lot of kids growing up here, music lessons are simply out of reach. There’s a place in Edgehill where lessons still cost fifty cents — just like they did more than 40 years ago. It’s called the W.O. Smith Music School, and hundreds of students benefit from its founding each year. Our guest today is executive director Valerie Cordero. She’s an ethnomusicologist whose own story veered away from music for much of her career. Now she’s back to helping make music every day.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Valerie Cordero, W.O. Smith Music School Executive Director

Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us live in the studio to take your questions –– and nothing is off the table.Today we're asking about Waymo, the Superbowl and the new state laws that will affect the city. But as always, the most important questions are yours.So what’s been bothering you lately? Are you looking forward to next week's State of Metro? Do you have concerns about your city services or something in your neighborhood that just hasn’t been addressed? No matter what it is, this is your chance to ask the man directly. Call 615-760-2000 during the live show or pop into chat on our YouTube stream to join the conversation.After we say goodbye to Mayor O'Connell, Curious Nashville is back to answer the Nashville questions piquing your curiosity. Today, we round out the show with a hot topic in light of the severe weather and the NES kerfuffle the city experienced this winter. Guest Wade Sexton has thirty years of experience working in the utility industry –– on the company side and as a utility contractor –– and he's here to answer a question that's been on our minds: "What would it take to put electrical lines underground? And, would it even be worth it?"Guests: Freddie O'Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Wade Sexton, board member, National Utility Contractors Association

For some, a book is just a book. For others, it can be life-changing, or controversial, or both.When the Age-Appropriate Materials Act was signed into law by Governor Lee in 2022, it paved the way for certain book titles to be challenged and removed from both school and public libraries. Now, the debate about access, education and community values rages throughout the state.What does book banning actually look like? Who’s making these calls — and how do they affect readers? Today, we unpack the issue, share perspectives and talk about what might be at stake when a book disappears from the shelf.Guests: Bruce Barry, opinion columnist, Tennessee Lookout Angele Latham, First Amendment reporter, Tennessean Christina Soontornvat, author; state leader, Authors Against Book Bans