News Talk 94.1

Catch up on all the biggest Upper Cumberland stories from the week ending 05/03/26! For more in depth, detailed, and timely news, visit theucnow.com! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

In this episode of The Scene, Mark Creter sits down with musician and producer duo Alicia and Don Archer to explore Alicia’s journey into music—from picking up her first guitar at 16 to finding inspiration in artists like Jewel, Whitney Houston, and Ella Fitzgerald. Alicia shares her deeply personal creative process, her love of poetry, and how songwriting often flows onto the page in a matter of minutes. The couple also discusses their collaborative work in producing music together, as Don reflects on his background as a DJ and bassist. Alicia opens up about overcoming a difficult past, rediscovering her voice, and channeling her experiences into powerful, relatable songs like “Lilith” and “Candy Girl.” Listen To The Scene Podcast Today! The UC Now · literock959.com

The past, present, and future of farming has become a large discussion point in the Upper Cumberland as of late. Family-owned farms, like the Browns', have long been the backbone of the Upper Cumberland. But what does the future hold for them, and what issues are they facing? Listen To The Today In The Upper Cumberland Podcast Today! The UC Now

In this episode, Brad Halfacre sits down with Ryan Higgins of Cedar Lake Camp to explore the rich history and mission behind the camp. Ryan shares how the property began as a struggling farm that was later transformed into a place of refuge for children during the Great Depression, eventually serving as an orphanage before becoming the camp it is today. He also discusses how Cedar Lake Camp now uses outdoor recreation and retreats to help both kids and adults grow in faith and connection. From its early beginnings to its modern-day mission, the camp continues to provide a space where people can step away from distractions and draw closer to something greater. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now

A growing community brings opportunity—but it also brings new demands on the people sworn to protect it. In this episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Matt White of the Baxter Fire Department to discuss how dry weather, wildfire risk, and rapid local growth are shaping the department’s work in Baxter, Tennessee. From burn permits and volunteer recruitment to critical equipment upgrades and grant funding for turnout gear, Chief White offers a clear look at what it takes to keep a growing town safe. He also shares insight into the challenges of budgeting for essential fire resources as the community continues to expand. Because when a town grows, so does the responsibility to protect every single corner of it. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What does it look like when medical aesthetics meets education, innovation, and personal journey all in one place? In this episode, Luke Ramey talks with Trudy Hedgecough of Anew You, a medical aesthetics spa in Crossville, Tennessee that opened in March 2020, as she breaks down the wide range of services they offer—including ultrasound therapy, sound needling, and customized skin treatments for both men and women without exception. Trudy also shares insight into their membership program, complimentary consultations, and how her team determines the right approach for each client’s skin goals, along with a look at the long-standing history of treatments like Botox. Beyond the spa, she reflects on her move from Dalton, Georgia to Cookeville to attend Tennessee Tech, where she met her husband, and how her daughter now works alongside her while pursuing nursing school. From science-backed care to a deeply personal story of growth, this conversation shows how Anew You is built to help people feel confident in their own skin—one treatment at a time. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

A shift is happening in today’s classrooms—one that challenges how students learn and how educators lead. In this episode, Kevin Lewis, principal of Frank P. Brown Elementary, shares his perspective on the evolving role of education and leadership. He discusses the importance of staying student-focused, along with creative initiatives like “No Technology Tuesday,” designed to help students learn without digital distractions. Kevin also reflects on the broader impact of technology in schools and why stepping away from it, even briefly, can make a meaningful difference. As classrooms continue to change, it’s clear that sometimes the most effective innovation is knowing when to simplify. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Some stories don’t just inspire—they strengthen your faith. Marcia Mullins joins George Halford to share her remarkable journey through family, nursing, loss, healing, and the life-changing power of prayer. From surviving cancer to overcoming heartbreak, Marcia reflects on the moments that deepened her trust in God and shaped her path to the National Day of Prayer. When faith is tested, stories like this remind us where strength begins. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Catch up on all the biggest Upper Cumberland stories from the week ending 05/03/26! For more in depth, detailed, and timely news, visit theucnow.com! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

In this episode, Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout sit down with Adam Poe of the Cookeville–Putnam County Chamber of Commerce to discuss his work in regional economic development across the Upper Cumberland. Adam shares how he became involved with the Highlands Economic Partnership, a collaborative effort among surrounding counties to strengthen and grow the regional economy, and what a typical day looks like in his leadership role. He reflects on the Chamber’s accomplishments in 2025, his involvement in Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and the importance of staying engaged with both community and student life at Tennessee Technological University, where he is an alumnus. He also discusses navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while helping support local economic recovery, along with lessons learned both professionally and personally during that time. Adam also shares a more personal side of his life, including his passion for painting and how creativity continues to play a role in his journey. Listen To The College Town Talk Podcast Today! The UC Now

In this episode, Mark sits down with Rick Brown of Wooden Treasures TN to explore how a late start in woodturning grew into a passion-driven craft. Rick shares how he taught himself using a lathe and online resources, eventually showcasing his work at local pop-up events. He reflects on the influence of his grandfather, the beauty found within natural wood grain, and why he chooses reclaimed wood to give each piece new life. From technique and tools to mentoring beginners through hands-on sessions, Rick offers insight into the patience, precision, and purpose behind every piece he creates. Listen To The Scene Podcast Today! The UC Now · literock959.com

In this episode, Sunny and Michelle join the conversation to highlight the upcoming Casting for Help and Hope Fishing Tournament, happening May 30th in support of the Children’s Advocacy Center. They discuss what anglers can expect on the lake, including the variety of fish species, as well as how the event is structured from check-in to competition. Sunny also shares insight into her forensic role and the important, sensitive work of hearing children’s stories in a grant-funded organization dedicated to advocacy and support. Michelle adds perspective on her involvement in the field and the mission behind the event’s continued growth. Now in its fifth year, the tournament continues to bring the community together to cast a line for a cause that truly matters. Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Today! The UC Now

Hear from the candidates wanting to represent you in our Meet The Candidates series! Hear from candidates such as Randy Porter, who is running for re-election as Putnam County Mayor, and Kyle Goff who is running for White County Executive. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

Listen in to your White County Executive candidates Denny Wayne Robinson and Kyle Goff as they answer your questions! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Van Buren Mayoral Candidate Barry Austin and Putnam County District 3 Commissioner Candidate Shane Bilbrey. In the second half of the episode, hear from Putnam County District 5 Commissioner Candidate Vinnie Faccinto. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

Listen in to your Putnam County Mayoral candidates Randy Porter and Wayne Nabors as they answer your questions! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

Listen in to your Overton County Executive candidates Steven Barlow, Austin Dodson, and Gregg Nivens as they answer your questions! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Greg Nivens, who is running for Overton County Executive, along with Ron Chaffin and Alex Garcia, both of whom are running for Putnam County District Commissioner in districts two and four, respectively. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Ken Hall, who is running for Putnam County District 4 Commissioner, as well as Brendan Lane and Clarissa Williams, both of whom are running for Putnam County District Commissioner in their respective districts. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

From science classrooms to the principal’s office, sometimes the journey takes a few unexpected turns. Jeremy Wendt sits down with Principal James Cox of A.H. Roberts Elementary School to talk about his path from teaching biology and chemistry at York Institute to leading a school community. He shares how influential teachers shaped his career, how he’s navigating new P.E. and recess laws, and why creating new opportunities for students is always a top priority. With insights on leadership, adaptability, and student success, this episode highlights what it really means to grow from educator to leader—tune in for a conversation that goes beyond the classroom. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Overton County Executive Candidate Austin Dodson and Putnam County District 10 Commissioner Candidate Kim Bradford. In the second half of the episode, hear from Putnam County District 10 Commissioner Candidate Joe Iwanyszyn. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

What happens when faith, education, and compassion intersect in the fight to protect children? In this episode, George Halford sits down with Tracy Bucholz, Director of the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center, to explore the experiences and values that have shaped her path into advocacy work. From her roots in a strong faith tradition and her time at Tennessee Tech—where she earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees—to her life with her family in Tennessee, Tracy reflects on how her personal journey informs her professional mission. She shares powerful insight into working with trauma, the connection between brain and body, and how nature and nurture intertwine in the lives of at-risk youth, along with how their team assesses situations and provides critical resources for children in need. This conversation highlights the importance of speaking up, recognizing the signs, and using available tools—like anonymous tip services—to protect the most vulnerable, reminding us that awareness and action are where real change begins. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Catch up on all the biggest Upper Cumberland stories from the week ending 04/19/26! For more in depth, detailed, and timely news, visit theucnow.com! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today! The UC Now

On this episode of the Inside Putnam County podcast, Host Tessa Davis is joined by Chuck Farmer as he details the upcoming Agoge Fight Club events coming to Cookeville! He shares information on the background of the word agoge, highlighting its' Spartan roots. He shares exciting details for the family friendly event, and what makes it so appealing to watch for all sorts of different people! Listen To The Inside Putnam County Podcast Today!

In this episode, Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout sit down with Callie Smith, a senior at Tennessee Technological University from Morgan County, Tennessee, to discuss her path through college and into national media internships. Callie shares her experience as a double major in Communications and Marketing, her time as a Tennessee Tech Trailblazer, and her role as former sports editor for The Oracle, the university’s student newspaper. She also reflects on landing internships with platforms like K-LOVE and the “That Sounds Fun” podcast network founded by Annie F. Downs, and what she learned while navigating those competitive opportunities. From building her own podcast and social media presence to exploring faith-driven storytelling, Callie discusses how Tennessee Tech has shaped both her career direction and her personal growth. Listen To The College Town Talk Podcast Today! The UC Now

In this episode, Mark Creter sits down with Gale Latuszek of Art By Gale to explore how art became both a passion and a path to healing. After years working in animal care and facing significant health challenges, Gale found comfort in painting—starting with a neighbor’s dog and growing into deeply personal pet portraits, many of which serve as meaningful memorials. She shares how emotion shapes her work, the difference between portraits and traditional paintings, and why capturing the spirit of animals is so special to her. Gale also discusses her involvement with the Appalachian Center for Craft, her “Golden Hour” series, and her efforts to give back by supporting Ripples Rescue through her artwork. Listen To The Scene Podcast Today! The UC Now · literock959.com

On this episode of the Today In The Upper Cumberland, the conversation continues along with the topic of justice and second chances. Director of the Hope Center (Jed Stevens) and Director of the House of David (Mark Honeycutt) go in depth on how the justice system works in the first place, while also detailing how others can receive second chances in life to begin anew. Listen To The Today In The Upper Cumberland Podcast Today! The UC Now

What if everyone—no matter their ability—could experience the beauty of Tennessee’s waterfalls? Host Brad Halfacre sits down with Tessa Davis to discuss an inspiring accessibility initiative from the Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau, designed to open up four state parks and five waterfalls to visitors of all abilities. From creating detailed maps and digital resources to partnering with WCTE on an upcoming documentary, Tessa shares how this project is changing lives—including a powerful story of a visually impaired visitor deeply impacted by the effort. Learn where to find these accessibility maps and how this growing initiative is making outdoor adventure truly inclusive. Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Today! The UC Now

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Fentress County Sherriff Candidate Gary Ledbetter! Additionally, hear from Tina Flatt, Steve Brown, and Nelson Lafever, all of which are running for Putnam County District 7 Commissioner. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Aimee Clayborn and Jennifer Wilkerson, as they look to receive your vote for Pickett County Clerk and Putnam County Clerk, respectively. Hear from more candidates as we ride through election season together! Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

In a situation where every second counts, who's in charge of answering the call? Host Ben Rodgers sits down with Josh Womack, Assistant Director and Public Information Officer for Putnam County 911, to pull back the curtain on emergency response. From communication towers and rapid response times to the reality of power outages and limited funding, Womack shares what it takes to keep the system running smoothly. With over 82,000 calls answered in 2025 and an average pickup time of just 3.4 seconds, this episode highlights the training, teamwork, and pressure behind every call. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Terry Randolph and Skip Ritter, running for Putnam County District 1 Commissioner and Putnam County District 9 Commissioner respectively. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Tim Nash, Rodney Insco, Matt White, and Tom Brown! Hear from more candidates as we ride through election season together! Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

What happens when compassion meets real, around-the-clock care for families in crisis? Drs. Lee and Mabry sit down with Meredith Vaughn and Shawn Hudson Detwiler of the Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic to share powerful stories of support, resilience, and community impact. From free services and 24-hour care to their unique Thrive program, they discuss how the clinic walks alongside mothers, fathers, and families—offering guidance through everything from unexpected pregnancies to postpartum care, housing struggles, and mental health challenges. With deep roots in the Upper Cumberland and strong community partnerships, they reveal how early intervention, education, and compassion can change lives. If you’ve ever wondered what true support looks like during life’s most uncertain moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Alex Garcia and Teresa Tays, both of whom are running for Putnam County District 4 Commissioner. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Leetha McCurdy, Larry Bennett, Steve Elrod, and Ken Hall! Hear from more candidates as we ride through election season together! Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

A struggling dairy farm doesn’t just survive—it evolves into one of Middle Tennessee’s most beloved agritourism destinations. In this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with Daniel McCulley of McCulley’s Amazin’ Acres to trace the journey from a small family operation to a thriving farm with 40+ attractions. From corn mazes and zip lines to Christmas trees and field trips, Daniel shares how innovation, faith, and family turned necessity into lasting legacy. What began as a way to stay afloat has become a place where generations come to make memories. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from David Gentry, Jeff Sibley, and Brenda Gentry, all of whom are running for Putnam County District 3 Commissioner. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Gary Ledbetter, who is running for Putnam County Clerk, Jonathan Williams, who is running for Putnam County District 1 Commissioner, and Tiffany Smith, who is running for Overton County Trustee. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

Behind every successful classroom is a system designed to support it. In this episode, Jeremy Wendt sits down with Diana Wood, PreK–4 curriculum supervisor for Putnam County Schools, to discuss the structure and strategy behind elementary education. Diana shares her journey from stay-at-home mom to educator and administrator, along with the responsibilities that come with supporting schools at a district level. She also addresses the evolving conversation around education careers, the stigma sometimes attached to them, and how tools like AI are beginning to play a role in the classroom. As education continues to adapt, her work highlights the importance of strong leadership behind the scenes to help both teachers and students succeed. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Catching up on your WILDCATS in action this season! Listen in as the Livingston Academy baseball team takes on Warren County on April 20th, 2026! Listen To All Livingston Wildcats Games Live On 101.9 WLIV! 101.9/am 920 WLIV

Get to know the local candidates that are asking for your vote in the upcoming 2026 Elections! In the first half of the episode, hear from Kelly McNeal, who is running for Putnam County Trustee, along with Shane Cunningham and Virginia Fillers, who are both running for Putnam County District 12 Commissioner. In the latter half of the episode, hear from Leetha McCurdy, who is running for Pickett County Register of Deeds, as well as Stacye Choate and Ron Chaffin, both of whom are running for Putnam County District 2 Commissioner. Listen To Meet The Candidates Live Until Election Day On News Talk 94.1 At 12pm and Lite Rock 95.9 At 6pm! The UC Now

From the fields of Rogersville to aiding in the guidance of thousands across the Upper Cumberland region, Amos Rogan’s life is all about service, leadership, and community. After more than 20 years with Averitt Express, he answered his calling to ministry and became Regional Director of Connections for Life Church, creating welcoming spaces and strong small groups across four campuses. He also serves as chaplain for the White County Police Department and as Chief Volunteer Officer for the White County YMCA, home to the state’s largest Special Olympics program—turning his passion for helping others into a life that inspires. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Catch up on all the biggest Upper Cumberland stories from the week ending 04/19/26! For more in depth, detailed, and timely news, visit theucnow.com! Listen To The UC Now Audio Podcast Today!

Tessa Davis is joined by guest Johnny Blaze from UC Makerspace and Imagine Foundry. He discusses how the imagination in all of us drives the local business to be better every day, taking a deep dive into how the business plans to expand in the coming years. Blaze highlights the exciting creations and fun to be had at both UC Makerspace and Imagine Foundry, while also detailing the real world benefits creativity can provide. Listen To The Inside Putnam County Podcast Today!

A lifelong passion for science can lead to places far beyond what most imagine. In this episode, Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout sit down with Dr. Jeannette Luna of Tennessee Technological University to discuss her journey from curious student to one of a select group of scientists chosen for NASA Artemis Program. Dr. Luna shares how years of persistence, rejection, and hands-on research led to her selection for the Artemis lunar surface team, where she will support upcoming missions focused on geological exploration near the moon’s south pole. She also reflects on her early interest in space, the path she carved through education and research, and her commitment to creating opportunities for her students through her work. From the classroom to cutting-edge space exploration, her story is a powerful reminder that persistence and passion can open doors to extraordinary places. Listen To The College Town Talk Podcast Today!

From science to sawdust, this artist found her passion in an unexpected place! Mark sits down with Alexandra Mavrikis, a resident artist at the Craft Center, as she reflects on her two-year journey and what comes next as her residency winds down. From building her first (not-so-perfect) table in Los Angeles to running a restoration business, Alexandra shares how woodworking completely reshaped her path. It’s an inspiring and lighthearted conversation about creativity, craftsmanship, and finding where art—and life—truly fit. Listen To The Scene Podcast Today! literock959.com

On this episode of the Today In The Upper Cumberland, the conversation is focused on justice and second chances. Director of the Hope Center (Jed Stevens) and Director of the House of David (Mark Honeycutt) go in depth on how the justice system works in the first place, while also detailing how others can receive second chances in life to begin anew. Listen To The Today In The Upper Cumberland Podcast Today!

It’s not just about the finish line—it’s about the journey, the team, and every step in between. Brad sits down with Travis Shope and Jennifer Shope to talk about the growing cross country program at Cookeville High School Cross Country and their involvement with the Upper Cumberland Road Runners Club. With 13 boys and 9 girls on the team, they share how summer practices, team bonding, and even a Kentucky training camp help prepare athletes for a strong season. From cheering each other on to embracing the beauty of the outdoors, this conversation highlights how cross country builds community, resilience, and a love for the run. Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Today!

Van Buren County is blending tradition with a fresh vision for the future! Ben Rodgers sits down with Chamber President Micca Davis to talk about her roots in the community and her role helping the county grow. She shares the history behind the famous Hot Dr. Pepper tradition and the upcoming Dr. Pepper Festival on December 5th. The conversation also touches on local attractions, events, and what’s ahead for the county. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

What if the key to preventing serious health issues starts with something as simple as balance? Jennifer Mabry and Emily Lee sit down with Dr. Brooklyn Apple of Tennessee Therapy and Balance Center to explore how physical therapy goes far beyond recovery and into prevention. From taking over the clinic in 2023 to expanding services that strengthen both body and brain, Dr. Apple breaks down what a day in her life looks like and how her team helps patients regain independence and confidence. She also shares critical signs to watch for in loved ones and the difference between true neurological conditions and lookalike symptoms—because catching issues early can change everything. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation on why prevention really is intervention. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Sometimes the path you’re meant for finds you when you least expect it. Jeremy Wendt sits down with Beth Peek, principal of Northfield Elementary School, to talk about her 27-year journey in education—from starting in accounting and nursing to discovering her true passion in the classroom. Inspired by generations of educators in her family (even when she tried to carve her own path), Beth shares how meaningful relationships with teachers shaped her life and why helping students—and fellow educators—remains at the heart of everything she does. From creative problem-solving to building strong school communities, her story is a powerful reminder that the right calling is always worth finding—don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Charles Jarrett’s life has been defined by perseverance, love, and giving back. From overcoming a childhood injury in Chattanooga to becoming a physician, Jarrett built a career on dedication and service. Later, as a devoted husband and caregiver to his wife, Rodema, he turned their story into a legacy. Through his book Bringing Up Aysha and the Rodema Bridge to Learning Scholarship, he’s helping aspiring nurses pursue higher education while honoring his wife’s memory. News Talk 94.1