Local Matters

George Halford sits down with Bryant Presley, a former funeral home owner whose life has been shaped by faith, family, and decades of service. Born on Detroit’s east side before moving to Tennessee in 1971, Presley says he was “bit with the funeral bug” early on after working in a funeral home during school. He went on to manage several funeral homes across Kingsport and even purchased the old Cookeville Funeral Home so his son Seth could return home and continue the work. Presley, a preacher for more than forty years, also reflects on his relationship with God and how heart trouble eventually led him to step away, bringing him to Hooper Huddleston & Horner.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

From Honduras to Tennessee Tech, doctoral student Sahera Abumariam is making waves in the world of chemical engineering! With award-winning research on microplastics and a passion for environmental innovation, she’s turning big dreams into real-world impact. Hear her inspiring journey, her goals for the future, and how family and STEM brought her all the way to Cookeville!

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Stomach issues aren’t always “just an upset stomach.” Drs. Lee and Mabry talk with GI specialist Dr. Nichole Pisapia about IBS, warning signs to watch for, diet tips, and when colon cancer screenings should start—plus myth-busting you don’t want to miss.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany sits down with Brittany Phillips, the new owner of B Fit Women’s Studio, to talk about her inspiring journey of purchasing the business and giving it new life after hearing it was set to close. Brittany shares what makes her studio stand out from other women-centered fitness spaces, transforming it into more than just bungee classes—it’s a supportive wellness community. She explains the difference between a traditional gym and a fitness studio built around encouragement and connection. Brittany also opens up about her own experience with pelvic floor therapy and how rebound classes helped change her health. Through her personal testimony, she shows how deeply she prioritizes both the physical and mental well-being of every woman who walks through her doors.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, Jeremy Wendt is joined by Jackie Vester, CTE Supervisor in Putnam County, to discuss how CTE is helping to connect students to career pathways. She talks about her journey to Cookeville, how she found a love for education, and what she has enjoyed most about her job. Jackie also speaks on programs like work-based learning, which allows students to work, intern, and even job-shadow during school days.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

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