Local Matters

This week, George Halford sits down with Ryan Higgins from Cedar Lake Camp to talk about faith, redemption, and the power of creating joy for kids. Originally from De Queen, Arkansas, Ryan opens up about his early struggles with alcohol, the lessons learned along the way, and how a return to faith led him to his calling in youth ministry. He shares how Cedar Lake Camp uses fun to shine God’s light and what’s ahead for the camp’s future—including the exciting plans for a new gymnasium.

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Ben Rodgers sits down with John Deane of the Jackson County and Gainesboro Chambers of Commerce, who shares his journey from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. to building a life and multiple businesses in Granville, Tennessee. John talks about meeting his wife, their careers in medical research and healthcare, and the unexpected leap from hospitals to hospitality as owners of Wildwood Resort and Marina. He reflects on transforming the old marina into a thriving destination, opening Miss Sallie’s Market, launching a frozen custard shop, and how these projects have strengthened his role within the Chamber by deepening his connection and sense of belonging in the community. John also shares stories of their national chef search during COVID and the ongoing work to renovate a 1930s building through an asbestos-removal grant. It’s an inspiring conversation about community investment, entrepreneurship, and the impact of becoming truly rooted in a small town.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Lee welcomes Connie Garrett from Choice Health Network for a World AIDS Day conversation that cuts through stigma and brings clarity to HIV education. Originally from Celina, Connie draws on her eight years of experience serving eight counties to explain the difference between HIV and AIDS, how the virus is transmitted, and why awareness month matters. She outlines the free, non-medical support services available to anyone living with HIV and shares how to easily access them. Connie also highlights the major medical progress that allows people to live full, healthy lives today. Tune in for myth-busting, practical insight, and important local resources.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Josh Wanamaker, musician and co-owner of Flat Foot Records, McMinnville’s newly opened local record store located just steps from the historic Park Theatre on Main Street. Josh shares the inspiration behind opening the shop, his favorite places to hunt for vinyl, and what sets Flat Foot Records apart—from its unique mix of music memorabilia to the way different social groups naturally collide and connect inside the store. He talks about his mission to give McMinnville something it’s been missing: a true local music hub with listening stations, a hangout area, and plans for intimate acoustic performances. Josh and Tiffany also dive into the story behind the name “Flat Foot Records,” their upcoming tracks and collectibles, and the deeper, more complex world of collecting high-quality vinyl. It’s a conversation about community, creativity, and the impact a small music store can make on a downtown scene.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Host Jeremy Wendt sits down with Penny Meadows, Director of LBJNC Head Start, to talk about how early education is changing lives across the region. Penny shares her journey from volunteering as a Head Start parent in Crawford to leading the program that now serves 80 children in four Upper Cumberland communities—Livingston, Byrdstown, Jamestown, and Cookeville. She reflects on the program’s rich history, the support that helped her earn her college degree, and the impact of initiatives like the foster grandparent program and recent grant projects.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Narcan trainer and recovery advocate Justin Cantrell joins us to share his remarkable journey from childhood trauma and addiction to nearly a decade of sobriety and service. Born and raised in DeKalb County, Justin opens up about his struggles with substance use, incarceration, and faith—and how those experiences now fuel his passion for saving lives across the Upper Cumberland. As a member of the Smith County Drug Coalition and founder of the Upper Cumberland Support Group, he discusses the impact of overdose prevention, the importance of community, and how faith and perseverance can turn pain into purpose.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Brad Halfacre sits down with Michael Hodge from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park to explore what makes it one of Tennessee’s treasured International Dark Sky Parks. Michael explains why winter skies are clearer, which constellations shine brightest this time of year, and dives into the science behind what we see overhead. He also previews the December 14th meteor shower and shares the best places in the park to catch the show. It’s a stellar listen for anyone who loves astronomy, nature, or simply looking up.

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Ben Rodgers sits down with Putnam County Commissioner Jonathan A.D. Williams, whose journey from Chicago to the Marine Corps to Cookeville shaped a lifelong commitment to service. Williams shares how his upbringing, military career, and years in law enforcement inspired his passion for local government and community leadership. Now a barber and the representative for District 1, he talks road infrastructure, school priorities, and the importance of building consensus over holding grudges. It’s an honest look at what it takes to serve your neighbors—and why relationships matter in politics.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Lee sits down with Nurse Practitioner Stacie Rothfus for National Influenza Vaccination Week, an annual December spotlight on flu prevention. Stacie shares her journey from urgent care to her work as both a Tennessee Tech NP and a hospitalist at Cookeville Regional. She breaks down why education on influenza—and especially the vaccine—is critical. From common symptoms to the complications that make the flu truly dangerous, Stacie explains how the flu shot helps protect our community. Tune in for a clear, practical look at staying healthy this season.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Vickie Pelamati and Karen Ritchie of The Lovely Find Tea Room, a charming Granville getaway dedicated to preserving the traditional English tea experience. Vickie, the owner, shares how purchasing a small house after her husband’s passing inspired her vision for a tea room, while Karen, the manager, explains her love for classic English Tea Time and how that passion turned into a business with her best friend. Together, they discuss serving everyone from Red Hat ladies and Girl Scouts to men in overalls—with special mugs ready for larger hands—and how their faith keeps them moving forward through every challenge. Karen breaks down their rotating English lunch menu, unique tea blends, regular customer groups, and their intimate 18-guest capacity, along with their five-year-old age limit to preserve the experience. They also preview upcoming events, including a festive visit from Mrs. Claus on December 14th and 15th.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1