Local Matters

From highway patrol to leading the force, Crossville Police Chief Jesse Brooks joins Ben Rodgers to share a powerful journey shaped by purpose, faith, and service. With 38 years on the road and now at the helm, Brooks opens up about leadership, lowering crime, and building a police department that feels like family. He dives into the realities of modern policing—from 911 calls to recruitment challenges—and the heart it takes to wear the badge. It’s a candid, inspiring conversation about answering the call and making a difference where it matters most. Tune in to find out more about what Chief Jesse Brooks and his team are doing to keep the streets of Crossville safe!

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

What does 50 years in primary care teach you about how we’re really living? In this insightful conversation, a longtime Cookeville physician reflects on decades of experience—from his training at the University of Tennessee in Memphis to building a practice rooted in community care. He shares why “a typical day in the clinic is atypical,” breaking down everything from generational health habits and overlooked barriers to care, to the surprising importance of sleep, simple routines, and even a daily 30-minute nap. From the rise of “The Anxious Generation” to the power of small lifestyle changes, this episode challenges how we think about our health—because the habits you ignore today could shape your tomorrow.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From mowing lawns to moving mountains— Custom Care & Lawns has been built with heart and hard work. Tiffany sits down with Bill Davis of Custom Care Lawn & Tree, a company that’s grown from simple lawn care into a full-service operation over the past 20 years. Bill shares how his passion for helping people and providing jobs pushed him to expand, all while staying hands-on with his crew and leading by example. From dangerous tree removals to loyal customers who’ve been there since day one, he opens up about the challenges, lessons, and faith that keep his business—and his team—moving forward.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Ever wondered what the future of child developmnet looked like at Tennessee Tech? Jeremy Wendt sits down with Angie Smith, Director of the Child Development Lab at Tennessee Tech, to talk about her journey into education and the moment that sparked it all. With over 20 years in her role, Angie shares how play-based learning, a nature-driven environment, and real-world experience are shaping both young children and future educators. It’s a lighthearted, meaningful conversation about growth, purpose, and the power of teaching.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From small-town beginnings in McMinnville to a 26-year career in the U.S. Air Force, James “Mickey” Gwyn’s journey is all about determination and heart. As a student, he helped spark change by leading efforts for his school’s first-ever Black History Week during a pivotal time in the mid 70's. He went on to become a Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, traveling the world and mentoring others along the way. Today, as Director of the Black History Museum of Warren County, Gwyn is bringing that same passion home—preserving history, inspiring others, and keeping his community connected.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

How do you create a space where every child and family feels seen, supported, and celebrated? Ben Rodgers sits down with Rachel Hof and Luke Elderidge to talk about Unique Cookeville, a free community event happening on April 11th designed neuro-divergent children and adults. From resource connections and hands-on activities to food, fun, and career opportunities, this event brings together 50 vendors, local law enforcement, the local YMCA, and more to empower families and celebrate neurodiversity. Rachel and Luke share their vision, the partnerships that made it possible, and how they hope to build a lasting impact for those who need it most. It’s an inspiring look at community, inclusion, and creating opportunities for all. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Keeping a community healthy takes more than doctors—it takes education, prevention, and partnership. Drs. Emily Lee and Jennifer Mabry sit down with Ashley Roberts and Rachael Nichols from the White County Health Department to talk about the vital work local health departments do to keep Tennesseans safe and informed. From nutrition education and disease prevention to supporting teachers and promoting community resources, they share how their passion for public health makes a difference every day. They also highlight the upcoming Blue Ribbon Lunch and Learn at the Stephens Center in Livingston, raising awareness for child abuse prevention and community support.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

From hillside spring to bottle, this family business is pouring passion into every drop! Tiffany Anton sits down with Nelda and Elizabeth Riley of CJR Bottling in Pall Mall, where a hillside spring and a family vision have been flowing strong since 2001. Nelda shares how she balanced a 30-year career in education while building the business from the ground up, while Elizabeth reflects on joining the operation and raising her family alongside it. Together, they reveal what sets their mineral-rich water apart, why they refuse to go big-box, and how their commitment to quality over quantity keeps their family-run business thriving.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

Great schools don’t just happen—they’re built by leaders who believe in their students. Jeremy Wendt sits down with Breeonna Wheeler, principal of Monterey High School, to talk about the journey that led her from a childhood dream of teaching to leading one of the community’s most active schools. Inspired by generations of educators in her family, Wheeler shares how kindness, mentorship, and strong community partnerships shape the culture at Monterey High. From bringing back the school band after nearly 40 years to earning the Purple Star Award and building a top-tier FFA program, she’s helping students discover their passions and take pride in their school. It’s a conversation about leadership, legacy, and investing in the next generation.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Jason Murphy, a U.S. Air Force veteran whose return to Tennessee sparked the start of something unexpected. As a founding member of the Blood Bought Bikers, Jason shares how the group became less about the bikes and more about faith, community, and spreading God’s word. He also talks about the beginnings of Bend Church, his work with the Christian Motorcycle Association, and mission trips coming up this June. Outside of ministry, Jason stays busy with hobbies like beekeeping and even professional magic. Tune in to hear more about Jason and his story!

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! The UC Now · News Talk 94.1