Local Matters

In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers sits down with Overton County Executive Stephen Barlow for a candid conversation reflecting on his four years of public service and the projects that have shaped the future of Overton County. Barlow discusses the challenges of attracting new businesses, including his efforts to recruit a grocery store and hotel, while highlighting major accomplishments such as the county's new Health Department, community center projects, and investments in infrastructure that will serve residents for years to come. The conversation also explores county budgeting, employee recruitment and retention, improving public services, and the realities of leading a growing rural community. As his term comes to a close, Barlow shares personal reflections on public service, the sacrifices that come with elected office, and his hope that the foundation laid over the past four years will continue to benefit Overton County for generations to come.

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In part two of this special Local Matters episode, Drs. Mabry and Lee are once again joined by Dr. Ernie Buchanan of Upper Cumberland Family Practice and Lincoln Memorial University medical student Peter Richards to continue separating fact from fiction on today's biggest health and wellness trends. This episode shifts the focus to the fitness gadgets, recovery techniques, wearable technology, and viral health hacks that are dominating social media. Together, they examine the science behind trends including mouth taping, weighted walking, cold plunges, vibration plates, smart rings, electrolyte supplements, detox products, and other popular wellness claims while discussing what actually works—and what simply doesn't. The conversation also explores the value of walking, strength training, quality sleep, and how to identify trustworthy medical information in an era of artificial intelligence and online influencers. Combining humor with evidence-based guidance, Part Two helps listeners cut through the hype and focus on practical habits that truly support long-term health and wellness. The UC Now · News Talk 94.1

On this episode of Local Matters Health Matters, hosts Drs. Mabry & Lee are joined by local family physician Dr. Ernie Buchanan of Upper Cumberland Family Physicians and Peter Richards, a third-year medical student at LMU, to separate health facts from social media fiction. They discuss the science behind GLP-1 weight loss medications, high-protein diets, intermittent fasting, continuous glucose monitors, gut health, probiotics, and other popular wellness trends. The conversation offers practical, evidence-based advice to help listeners navigate today's health information with confidence while emphasizing healthy lifestyle habits over online hype.

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In this episode of Local Matters, host Tiffany Anton welcomes Tyler Buck, owner and operator of the Cookeville and Algood Baskin-Robbins locations, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, and building a business with purpose. Tyler shares how a part-time job scooping ice cream as a teenager turned into becoming the youngest person to purchase a Baskin-Robbins franchise, and how he's reimagined the iconic brand through creative ideas like drive-thru service, innovative store designs, online ordering, and customer-focused experiences. The discussion also explores his passion for giving back to the Upper Cumberland, why community impact is more important than traditional advertising, and how he has built a culture of generosity by partnering with local nonprofits and schools throughout the year. Tyler also offers a glimpse into his vision for future locations, proving that entrepreneurship is about more than growing a business—it's about creating places that bring people together and leave a lasting impact on the community.

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On this episode of the Local Matters podcast, hear from Dr. Kristen Trent as she details why teaching literacy is so important. She explains what the 2+2 Program is, what purpose it serves in the local community, and the integral role the Literacy Association of Tennessee plays in helping the next generation reach literacy.

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In this episode of Local Matters, host George Halford welcomes longtime Cookeville High School Career and Technical Education instructor Randy Mansell for a conversation about the life-changing impact of skilled trades and workforce education. Drawing from decades of experience in construction, farming, and the classroom, Mansell reflects on his journey from working alongside his father in the family construction business to inspiring generations of students to pursue rewarding careers in the trades. The discussion explores the growing demand for skilled workers, the evolution of career and technical education, and the opportunities available to young people who choose apprenticeships and hands-on professions. Mansell also shares stories of former students who have gone on to build successful careers, explains the importance of strong work ethic and reliability, and offers his perspective on how technology and artificial intelligence will shape—but never replace—the need for skilled craftspeople. It's an encouraging conversation about education, opportunity, and why the Upper Cumberland continues to be a place where hard work, practical skills, and community relationships can build a successful future.

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In this episode of Local Matters, host Ben Rodgers welcomes Maxine Frazier, director of the Cookeville Senior Center, for an inspiring conversation about creating opportunities that help older adults remain active, connected, and engaged. Drawing on a lifetime of service as an educator, court reporter, school board member, and community leader, Frazier shares how the Senior Center has grown into a hub of innovation, offering everything from Rock Steady Boxing for individuals with Parkinson's disease and programs for those who are blind or visually impaired to fitness classes, music therapy, art, travel, and lifelong learning. The discussion highlights how creativity, grant funding, and community partnerships have transformed the center into one of Tennessee's most unique senior programs, while also addressing the challenges seniors face with isolation, accessibility, and affordability. It's an uplifting conversation about compassion, inclusion, and the power of building a community where every person has the opportunity to thrive at every stage of life.

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In this episode of Local Matters, Drs. Mabry and Lee are joined by licensed professional counselor Abby Fowler of Wildly Curative Counseling for an encouraging conversation about helping children navigate big emotions and build emotional resilience. Abby explains why feelings like frustration, disappointment, anxiety, and anger are a normal part of childhood development, and how parents can help children recognize, express, and manage those emotions in healthy ways. The discussion explores the growing influence of social media on children's confidence and self-esteem, the importance of allowing children to experience setbacks and disappointment, and practical strategies parents can use to respond calmly during emotional outbursts. Abby also shares why modeling emotional regulation is one of the most powerful tools parents have, discusses the value of early counseling intervention, and offers simple, practical techniques families can begin using today to raise emotionally healthy, confident, and resilient children. It's a thoughtful and reassuring episode filled with practical advice for parents, caregivers, and anyone who plays an important role in a child's life.

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In this episode of Local Matters, host Tiffany Anton welcomes Heidi Clopton, founder of the Dream Cooperative, for an inspiring conversation about creating opportunities for individuals with special needs and strengthening the Upper Cumberland through collaboration. Heidi shares how nearly three decades as an occupational therapist inspired her to launch the nonprofit after recognizing the need for meaningful programs, life skills, and community connections for teens and adults after they leave the school system. Together, they discuss the Dream Cooperative's innovative classes in cooking, music, art, wellness, and job readiness, while exploring the importance of helping individuals discover their passions, build independence, and develop skills for everyday life. The conversation also highlights the value of community partnerships, volunteerism, and inclusive employment, as well as Heidi's long-term vision of expanding the Dream Cooperative throughout rural Tennessee so more families can access the resources, relationships, and support they need. It's an uplifting episode about servant leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

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Dr. Jennifer Meadows joins Jeremy Wendt on this episode of the Local Matters podcast to highlight STEM. She details her journey working in STEM centers and STEM education, covering a variety of initiatives she began such as the lending library and her STEM Teacher Program.

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