Local Matters

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