Local Matters

Behind every nurse is a lifetime of compassion, sacrifice, and service—and the Tennessee Nurses Honor Guard makes sure that legacy is never forgotten. George Halford sits down with Donna Sherrill and Barb Davis, two Upper Cumberland natives helping lead this meaningful nonprofit tribute organization founded in 2019. They share what inspired them to become nurses, how healthcare has evolved over the years, and why personal connection still matters even in a high-tech world. Plus, they walk through the Honor Guard’s powerful ceremonies, including the tradition of lighting lamps, and their mission to support and honor nurses across Tennessee. Tune in to hear their stories and to learn more about the Tennessee Nurses Honor Guard! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Jackson County Mayor Jim Morgan. We explore Jackson County's waste management and disposal, growth opportunities, water upgrades and more. Morgan highlights his personal story as well, sharing how he made his way to being Mayor of Jackson County, and what has helped him succeed all throughout his life. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Cancer prevention starts long before symptoms appear, and nurse practitioner Ben Aaron is here to explain how. In this episode, the doctors talk screenings, vaccines, and myths versus truth—plus how simple checkups can play a huge role in long-term health. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany sits down with Josie Cook, owner of Play Land Pals—an indoor playroom and cozy coffee shop built with both kids and parents in mind. After moving from California to Tennessee, Josie found her way to Smithville in search of true small-town community, and she’s created a welcoming space where children can play safely while adults can actually relax. She shares the inspiration behind the playroom’s design, how her husband built everything by hand, and the heart behind making every family feel included. From fun kids activities to community events for adults of all ages, Josie’s mission is all about connection, comfort, and serving others. Tune in to hear her inspiring small business journey! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Gray and Lindsey Roberts join Jeremy Wendt to shed some light on the global culinary program at Tennessee Tech. They discuss the blossoming of the program, and how it has taken shape over the very short time it has been offered to students. They discuss how exciting and fun the program has been, and their plans for making it even bigger and better in the near future. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

From front-porch wisdom to a book the internet couldn’t keep in stock—George Halford talks with Jeffery Crouch, author of Hillbilly Gospel. Jeffery shares the stories of his father, faith, loss, and the calling that led him to write a book now spreading by word of mouth. Listen to a powerful conversation about legacy, grief, and stories meant to live on. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Ben Rodgers sits down with Overton County Commissioner Patrick McCurdy. They explore his time in service to the Coast Guard, his journey to Overton County from his early years in Montana, and what he strives to accomplish as commissioner each and every day. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

The Winter months can be tough on mental health, and Drs. Lee and Mabry are unpacking why with Dr. Langford of Hope Springs Clinic. In this engaging conversation, they explore seasonal depression, holiday stress, and how accessible mental health care in the Upper Cumberland can make a real difference. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

When it comes to electrical work, quality and safety matter most. Tiffany Anton talks with Brian Larson of Larson Electrical Solutions about why hiring a licensed electrician is crucial, how he ensures every job is done right, and his hopes to teach the next generation of skilled trades in our area. Hear how Brian is powering homes safely and building a stronger community. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Jeremy Wendt is joined by Trent Jones from STEMOVATE. He helped bring STEM education to Putnam County School Systems as a 4H Agent, and has lived a life full of spreading his knowledge in agriculture, stem, and 4H. He talks about what inspires him to give students insight about STEM and agricultural education, and how STEMOVATE will continue to give help to students across Putnam County. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Gannon Richesin, a Philadelphia, Tennessee native whose heart for service fuels both his ministry and community leadership. Gannon shares his path from Loudon High School to becoming a vocational minister and pastor of Three Rivers Church, as well as the director of Matthew 25 Ministries in Warren County, where he oversees impactful outreach—including their vital Warming Center. He also opens up about his family life and the calling that drives his work. And toward the end of the conversation, Gannon unveils details about a very special Valentine’s Day themed prom for teens and adults with special needs. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Jackson County Commissioner Doug Stafford, a lifelong local whose roots run deep in Gainesboro. Doug shares his journey from working city trash trucks and spending two decades at Nielsen to serving on the county commission, reflecting on a lifetime of volunteerism that began at just 15 years old. He opens up about the tough realities of local government, including voting for a recent tax increase, how property tax rates are determined, and the impact those decisions have on growth in Jackson County. The conversation also highlights regional cooperation in the Upper Cumberland, Jackson County’s beloved tourist attractions, and Doug’s work with Friends of Cordell Hull Lake—an organization that’s removed nearly 15 tons of trash and continues to reinvest every dollar back into protecting the lake and supporting local tourism. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Emily Lee sits down with Stacy Brewington, a longtime cardiology professional who has spent 21 years with Tennessee Heart. Brewington shares how a single EMT class at Tennessee Tech shifted him from engineering into a lifelong career in patient care. He breaks down the many moving parts that keep a cardiology center running and explains why cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death—often beginning as early as the teenage years. He also highlights how symptoms can show up differently in men and women, and what listeners should be paying attention to. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tired of expensive rides and limited options? Tiffany Anton talks with 25-year-old Braxton Lafever, founder of Lafever Ride Share. Inspired by his faith and personal journey through the Hope Center in Rickman Tennessee, Braxton built a local, family-oriented rideshare business focused on safety, affordability, and getting people where they need to go. Hear how Lafever Ride Share is changing transportation in Cookeville! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Donna Ray, longtime school counselor at Rickman Pre-K through 8th school, where she helps support more than 700 students every day. A Livingston native and Rickman alum herself, Donna reflects on her 23-year career—including the full-circle moment of student-teaching alongside her own favorite childhood teacher. She discusses how early exposure to technology, when not monitored, can shape mental health and behavior in today’s students, and how different school life is now compared to her own upbringing. Donna also shares her hopes for Rickman’s future, their 2025 food drive, and her thoughts on the ongoing teacher shortage. It’s an insightful look at the challenges and heart behind supporting students in today’s world. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

From a military upbringing to owning a hometown favorite—George Halford sits down with Bruce and Jeanne Cannon of the "Country Kitchen on Main". They share stories of hard work, family roots in Crossville, opening their first restaurant at just 22, and how food, community, and philanthropy have shaped their journey. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Chris Miller, Director of Cumberland County EMS, to talk about his journey from growing up in Jamestown to serving in the U.S. Air Force—including time stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska—before becoming an EMT in the late 90's. Chris reflects on returning home to serve Cumberland County, the unique challenges of covering one of Tennessee’s largest counties by acreage, and the growing demands on rural emergency services. He also opens up about the toll of COVID-19 on first responders, the community-wide response to the 2020 tornado, and his vision for the future of EMS in the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee sit down with Jennifer Wilson, Account Manager for Blood Assurance in Cookeville, in honor of National Blood Donor Month. Jennifer explains her role with the local nonprofit, which serves as the sole blood provider for Cookeville Regional Medical Center, and highlights why blood donations are so critical to patients across the Upper Cumberland. She discusses seasonal blood shortages, the types of patients who rely most on donations, and how a single donation can save up to three lives. The conversation also walks listeners through the donation process—from eligibility and preparation to mobile blood drives—while busting common myths and sharing how local high school donors play a vital role in keeping the community’s blood supply strong. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton talks with Mark Dickerson of Mark’s Heating and Air, a locally owned business serving the community for a little over a decade. Mark shares what inspired him to start his company, the challenges of running a business today, and why customer service is at the heart of everything he does. He also offers practical tips for homeowners, including common HVAC issues, when to service your system, and how heating and cooling technology can impact energy costs and indoor air quality. Plus, Mark explains how to get quotes, schedule service, and protect yourself from being taken advantage of. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Trey Upchurch, Supervisor of Coordinated Health and Student Services for the Putnam County School System, to talk about the journey that shaped his passion for education. Growing up in Jamestown, Tennessee, Trey followed his family’s long line of teachers before studying education at Roane State Community College. He later stepped into the Air Force, where traveling across the world gave him an eye-opening perspective far beyond small-town Tennessee. Trey reflects on how those experiences strengthened his mission to support students’ health, well-being, and overall success. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about service, perspective, and the path that led Trey home. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1