Now, the group wants to bridge even more gaps — not just between believers and non-believers — but between followers of different religions and ideologies. Joining us to talk about finding commonality despite differences are The Conversation Coalition co-founder Elliott Martin, Rev. Brandon Baxter with East End United Methodist Church, and Vanderbilt Divinity School Professor of Religion Phillis Sheppard.

This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. 

Guests

Gauthier began writing songs relatively late in life, and her early work explores her troubled past and journey to sobriety. Her songwriting has earned her numerous awards and accolades – including a Grammy nomination – and The Associated Press called her “one of the best songwriters of her generation.” Mary’s book, Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting, tells the story of her personal growth and how, in her words, “songs can bring us a deep understanding of each other and ourselves…and open the heart to love.” Her eleventh album, Dark Enough To See The Stars, is out now.

It seems that everyone can agree that no child should experience the terror of a school shooting, nor should any family experience the pain of an unimaginable loss; we just can’t agree on how to get there. Today, we’ll get an update on the circumstances surrounding yesterday’s tragedy. And we want to hear from you. What do you think can be done?

This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

GUESTS

FURTHER READING

• WPLN | 2 dead, 1 injured in shooting at Nashville high school

Becoming an organ donor is a way to offer a life-changing gift to others. Today, we’ll hear from Tennesseans who know this personally: a mother whose teenage son became a donor, and both a kidney donor and recipient. We’ll also speak with experts from Tennessee Donor Services and the Vanderbilt University Medical Center Transplant Center, a national leader, about what we need to know about being an organ donor and how to register here in Tennessee.

This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.

GUESTS

The Lunar New Year is a time for gathering with relatives and friends for some food, fun and music. It's also a time to remember and honor one’s ancestors and reflect on one’s own personal journey as we get set for the year ahead.

Guests

In this episode, we hear from reporters who will offer insights into what’s at stake and break down the major topics expected to dominate the conversation in the coming months — from school vouchers and abortion pill access to immigration and guns. And we want to hear from you: What issues are important to you? And what do you want from lawmakers in the coming months? Today, it's your turn to talk, so join us by calling 615-760-2000!

This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

GUESTS:

Each year, millions of adults and children fall victim to sexual exploitation, forced labor, or both. In this episode, we confront the harsh realities of human trafficking in Middle Tennessee and the broader state. We explore who is affected and learn about the efforts of local enforcement, nonprofits and community leaders who work to prevent this crime and support the survivors. And we learn how individuals and communities can take action to recognize the signs of trafficking and make a difference in the lives of those affected.

LISTENER NOTE: This episode contains stories of real experiences of human trafficking with references to sexual assault, physical abuse, drug use and child abuse.

This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Josh Deepen.

Guests

It is often difficult to figure out how to visit and stay connected to a loved one who is incarcerated. It is also challenging to navigate the emotions, and often judgement, that comes with the loss of someone close from daily life to prison. Today we’re talking about what it’s like to love someone - a child, a parent, a spouse, a friend- who is incarcerated and local resources available to help. Join us!

This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.

GUESTS

Today, we talk with Settles about the philosophy behind her mission to heal, what music means to her, and how she chose to center everything she does from a place of love. Plus, she performs live for us in the studio.

Guest

Through guided dialogues, One Small Step encourages participants to listen just as much as they speak and stay open to a wide range of opinions. Dialogue Vanderbilt has partnered with StoryCorps to bring One Small Step to Middle-Tennessee and Jad Abumrad, Vanderbilt’s Distinguished Research Professor of Communication of Science and Technology and co-founder of Radiolab, joins us to talk about the essentials and efficacy of this ambitious program.

This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Josh Deepan.

GUEST

• Jad Abumrad, Distinguished Research Professor of Communication of Science and Technology and co-founder of Radiolab, Vanderbilt University

FURTHER READING