Tennessee Matters

The Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) serves to safeguard individuals from discrimination through education and enforcement. As an independent state agency, it enforces anti-discrimination laws in housing, employment, and public accommodation based on race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, and age. Executive Director Muriel Nolan joined John Clark to talk about the THRC's role to act as a vital advocate for human rights, striving to create a more inclusive and equitable Tennessee.

The Tennessee Charitable Care Network (TCCN) is dedicated to a mission of support, education, and representation for non-profit organizations that provide essential healthcare services.These organizations are committed to delivering free or reduced-cost medical, dental, and mental health services to low-income, uninsured, and underserved populations. By providing this support, TCCN ensures that these vital services can reach those most in need, helping to maintain and improve the health of vulnerable communities.
On this episode of Tennessee Matters, John Clark talks with Exec. Dir. Christi Granstaff and Dir. of Programs Mattie Callahan about TCCN'S mission to help build a robust healthcare infrastructure for those who might otherwise go without necessary care. Link to TCCN. 

Veterans encounter significant challenges when transitioning back to civilian life, and the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services is committed to easing this transition for the approximately 450,000 veterans living in Tennessee. Through passionate advocacy and informative outreach, the department connects veterans with the benefits they’ve earned and to critical resources that many need. Major General Tommy Baker is commissioner of the TVDS and recently discussed his goal to position Tennessee as a national leader in veteran services with John Clark on Tennessee Matters.

The Secretary of State’s office in Tennessee plays a pivotal role in the state’s governance and administration including maintaining a register of the governor’s official acts and proceedings, ensuring the accuracy and security of public records, and administering the state’s election laws. The office is also tasked with the chartering of corporations, registration of trademarks and service marks, and the overall administration of elections.  Tre Hargett was elected Tennessee’s 37th Secretary of State in 2009 and has been reelected three times since then.  Recently he was John Clark’s guest on Tennessee Matters.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is entrusted with a broad spectrum of responsibilities to ensure the smooth operation and safety of the state’s transportation network. It oversees the planning, construction, and maintenance of over 14,000 miles of state-owned highways and interstates. Additionally, TDOT administers funding and offers technical assistance for state and federal aid road programs to cities and counties. The department also plays a pivotal role in managing incident response on Tennessee’s Interstate system through its intelligent transportation network, TDOT SmartWay.  Recently John Clark had a candid discussion with Butch Eley, Deputy Governor and Commissioner of TDOT for this episode of Tennessee Matters.

Did you know every organ donor can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of 75 more people through tissue donation?  That's the message from Tennessee Donor Services whose mission is to save and improve lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.  2023 was a record-breaking year in the state for organ and tissue donations in Tennessee but the need remains great. Recently John Clark spoke with Jill Grandas, Executive Director of TDS for this episode of TENNESSEE MATTERS.

The Jason Foundation is dedicated to the prevention of the "silent epidemic" of youth suicide. Recent data shows Tennessee ranks among the top for child suicide rates nationwide and the issue was addressed in the State of the Child report from the TN Commission on Children & Youth. The Jason Foundation has programs and events to equip educators, young people, parents, and youth workers with the tools and resources they need to help identify and assist at risk youth. Joining John Clark to talk about the work of The Jason Foundation is Deputy Exec. Dir and Chief Communications Officer.

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Health is to protect and improve the health and prosperity of the citizens of the state. Dr. Ralph Alvarado recently celebrated his first full year as commissioner of the health department and presides over challenging times including the continuing presence of Covid 19 among many other public health concerns. Dr. Alvarado spoke with John Clark about important current issues and initiatives including programs you may not have known were part of the many responsibilities of the TN Dept. of Health.

The TN Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) is the state agency responsible for supporting Tennesseans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is done in several ways, including Medicaid waiver Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), state-operated ICF/IIDs, and the Family Support Program. DIDD administers services directly or through contracts with community providers. Recently John Clark talked about this important state operation that is critical for individuals and families in Tennessee. Website: https://www.tn.gov/didd

Do you ever wonder where all of our tax money goes in Tennessee? It goes to Education, Health & Social Services, Public Safety, Transportation and back into local communities for important public services. The Tennessee Department of Revenue serves as the state’s primary tax collection agency, administering more than 25 different taxes and fees. In addition to tax collection and enforcement, the department is responsible for administering Tennessee’s motor vehicle registration and title laws. Recently John Clark spoke with David Gerregano, Commissioner of the TN Dept. of Revenue. Website: https://www.tn.gov/revenue