Local Matters

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Chuck Craig from Tennessee Tech University to talk about the importance of student advising and mentorship. Together, they explore how strong advising relationships help students find their path, stay engaged, and make the most of their college experience. Chuck shares insights from his work at Tech and how the university is continually improving student support to ensure every Golden Eagle has the tools to succeed.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Ken Patton to discuss his work with the Civil War Round Table in Crossville, part of a network of three round tables across Tennessee. Ken shares the group’s mission to preserve and explore Civil War history through expert speakers, Living Historians, and educational field trips to historic sites like Chickamauga. He discusses the challenges of attracting high-quality speakers and the unique role of Living Historians in bringing the past to life. With a passion for expanding their reach, Ken hopes to strengthen programming and draw in Civil War enthusiasts from across the country.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Danny Hale, DeKalb County Road Superintendent, to talk about the challenges and rewards of keeping the county’s roads in shape. Danny shares how his background in excavation led him to public service, how he navigated tight budgets when first elected in 2018, and what he’s learned managing road projects and staff during his second term. Listeners get an inside look at the dedication it takes to keep DeKalb County moving forward.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee talk with Kim Mayberry from Cookeville Regional Medical Center in recognition of American Diabetes Awareness Month. Kim explains the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and discusses who is most at risk, including those with pre-diabetes. She shares insight on early symptoms and non-controllable risk factors, as well as local programs and resources available for diabetic patients in the Upper Cumberland region.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton chats with Hannah Istvanko, co-founder of Privy Clear, about the journey of launching a powerhouse marketing agency. When Hannah’s former colleague Sarah pitched a business idea while eight months pregnant, Hannah initially turned it down—but the second time around, something clicked. Now, the duo builds custom, data-driven marketing solutions through Google Ads and web development, helping businesses grow beyond vanity metrics. Hannah shares how coding skills, smart analytics, and a global Google certification set them apart—and what their free 48-hour audit can uncover about your website.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt talks with Gary Tinsley about the great things happening at Clay County High School. From dedicated teachers to strong community support, Gary highlights what makes the school special and how students are being prepared for success both in and out of the classroom. He also shares how the school continues to grow while keeping that close-knit, small-town spirit Clay County is known for.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Host George Halford sits down with Gloria Vick for a conversation full of history, heart, and hope. Gloria shares stories from her adventurous life, from fishing with her father and studying at Tennessee Tech to traveling through Europe and witnessing Cookeville's dramatic growth over the decades. Now deeply involved in jail ministry, she talks about her work leading Celebrate Recovery, a faith-based 12-step program changing the lives of incarcerated women. She also explains the innovative “program pods” inside the jail and how the team helps women rebuild their lives after release. It’s a powerful story of redemption, resilience, and the lasting impact of service.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers talks with Connor McDonald, Smith County Commissioner, about his journey in public service and what it means to serve a community with deep local roots. Connor shares how his early involvement in political campaigns led him to run for office, the challenges he faced when managing a county budget during a financial crisis, and what he’s learned since being elected in 2022. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at county leadership and the dedication it takes to balance fiscal responsibility with serving the people of Smith County.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee talk with Melanie Hendricks from Alzheimer’s Tennessee in honor of National Alzheimer’s Month. They discuss the signs and stages of Alzheimer’s, how it differs from other forms of dementia, and what families can do to recognize early symptoms. Melanie shares her personal story and insight into the emotional and financial challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. The conversation also highlights volunteer opportunities, the upcoming “Walk to Make Alzheimer’s a Memory” event on November 8th, and ways to support those affected.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with Valerie Goetz of Native Works in Gainesboro, a company specializing in replica artifacts for museums and gift shops. Valerie shares how her love for museums and wood carving evolved into a business rooted in her Native American heritage, including skills like pine needle basket-making passed down from her aunt. She reflects on growing up during the Jim Crow era, distancing herself from her heritage to pursue a career in chemistry, and eventually reconnecting with her roots through art. After years in Ohio and Arkansas, Valerie returned to Tennessee, where Native Works continues to grow its impact across the state.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1