This Is Nashville

America's independence turns 250 this year, and the country is abuzz with commemorations, flags flying, and patriotic-fueled pride. But as we mark this milestone, what else should we be talking about? Our Roundabout panel, representing perspectives from across the political spectrum, examines the foundational issues America continues to grapple with, as well as the America 250 headlines making news today. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Maryam Abolfazli, former congressional candidate and founder of Rise & Shine TN Levi Ismail, Emmy-award winning journalist, NewsChannel 5’s investigative unit Chris Walker, founding partner, The Poplar Group

Maybe you get overwhelmed at the enormity of climate change and the effects on our environment. But try not to despair. Today we’re talking about the little things anyone can do. And it starts with simply keeping our eyes open, noticing and documenting what we see. We’re watching for our signal species — getting an introduction to iNaturalist and gathering inspiration from the folks who already keep a close eye on our flora and fauna. Now your video of a bear strolling through the neighborhood can be good for more than a bunch of views on Instagram. Contribute your observations on nature around you by joining our Appalachian Signal Species collection project on iNaturalist. Guests Arya Natarajan, senior communications manager, iNaturalist Tony Gonzalez, news director, WPLN Megan Jones, digital editor, WPLN Margaret Renkl, author, The Weedy Garden Sandy Obodzinski, executive director, Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary

Love, romance and intimacy can look very different in the second half of life — no matter your gender or sexuality. Today we get stories of gay men growing older together, a trans woman from Coffee County finally living in full expression after a huge loss and a woman with her own coming out story who is now coaching people later in life on how to get through the messy middle and beyond. Throughout a lifetime, one hope is that we never stop growing into ourselves — evolving as we know more, overcome more and love more. On today’s episode of NextAge, we talk with leaders in our LGBTQ+ community to learn how we can become more resilient and kind to ourselves and those around us. Especially in the face of mighty hurdles. Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Guests • Dwayne Jenkins, Nashville Black Pride, Nashville Cares, Brothers United • Ginger Cutrell, transgender community advocate • Anne-Marie Zanzal, Coming Out Coach

Tech developer DC Blox has filed permit applications for a tentacular data center to be built right next to the Nashville Zoo. A 'Quantum Leap' data center is underway on Fisk University's campus. These constructions have seemingly started to pop up nationwide. And they were showing no sign of slowing. That is, until the public had something to say about it. Americans from all political walks of life are protesting the sudden mitosis of these mysterious buildings. A petition opposing the data center by the Zoo has garnered over 400,000 signatures. Still, questions remain: are they harmful to the surrounding ecosystem? Are they loud? Are they creating jobs? Are they taking jobs away? On today's Roundabout edition, our panel is here to answer your questions. Call in with your thoughts and concerns at 615-760-2000 or comment on the YouTube livestream. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Caroline Eggers, WPLN Environmental Reporter Timothy Hughes, NCAA Nashville Chapter President Dodd Galbreath, Lipscomb University Environmental Science Professor Kelly Puente, Investigative Reporter, The Tennessean 

The descendants of the American Revolution are the keepers of our personal histories, saving the stories of ancestors whom time might have forgotten. Two hundred and fifty years ago, when the Declaration of Independence was signed, Tennessee was the rugged Western frontier. Yet, the brave individuals who fought for freedom left a legacy that lives on through local families today. Today, we share some of their historical journeys. Plus, we connect with modern-day patriots in our communities and visit local grant-funded projects marking the 250th anniversary — including a community-staged historical play. Join us as we explore patriotism, then and now. Guests Julie Brymer, Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Chair, Public Relations & Media; member, General Daniel Smith's Rock Castle Chapter DAR Jack Emmert, member, Maj. David Wilson Chapter Sons of the American Revolution Robin Emmert,  member, Margaret Gaston Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution Mesut Keklik, entrepreneur, founder/director of Kurdish Culture & Music Association Anne G'fellers Mason, playwright and director, “The First and Last Town in Tennessee" Miro Rengin, entrepreneur; member of Nashville's kurdish community

Have you ever looked closely at your Tennessee driver's license? There might be something surprising in the fine print. Curious Nashville listener Sam Barocas used his microscope to find it. And then he asked the question that inspired today's show: Why is there a microscopic typo on the Tennessee driver's license? In some instances — likely on millions of licenses — a thin ribbon of text reads "The Volundeer State." With a 'd.' "And I saw that and I was like, 'Huh? That's funny,' " Barocas says. "How'd that happen?" Among the theories: It's a genuine mistake. It's an intentional security feature. It's an easter egg tucked in by a mischievous designer. WPLN's Justin Barney helps Curious Nashville get to the bottom of this mystery. Then we’re staying on the theme of "microscopic Nashville," and learning from experts about other parts of our community that are hiding in plain sight. Justin Barney, culture and music reporter, Nashville Public Radio Dr. Eva Parker, expert on climate change’s impact on health and assistant professor of dermatology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center Ross Andrew, associate professor of biology at Belmont University

Long before she ever heard of Hatch Show Print, Celene Aubry fell in love with letterpress printing. Fascinated by the smell of ink, the feel of paper, the hand-carved wood type, and the big machines that churn out poster after poster, she spent her spare time learning about it while working a marketing day job in Chicago. What began as a passion led to where she is now: the first woman director of Hatch Show Print, Nashville’s 147-year-old printing institution.  In this episode, Celene shares how her interest in letterpress printmaking became a career, and how she now stewards a legendary shop whose iconic posters have promoted everyone from Dolly Parton and Bill Monroe to nearly every artist who takes the stage at the Ryman Auditorium.

Healthcare is all about who is going to pay for it. Because if you can’t afford to go to the doctor, you probably won’t until it becomes an emergency – which isn’t good for the patient or the system. This is a particular problem in rural Tennessee. When there’s a hiccup in the system, rural systems may shutter. Healthcare Hollow is a WPLN series that takes an in-depth look at the crisis of rural hospital closings. In this episode, we’re focused on who is going to pay for care in rural Tennessee. Those residents are more likely to rely on TennCare (the state’s version of federal Medicaid). Post-COVID policy changes have resulted in more people losing TennCare coverage. At the same time, fewer people are keeping insurance under the Affordable Care Act because of the expense. This episode is part of our Healthcare Hollow series, made possible, in part, by the NIHCM Foundation. Guests Gordon Bonnyman, staff attorney & co-founder, Tennessee Justice Center Jackie Shrago, ACA marketplace volunteer navigator Sarah Boden, independent healthcare journalist with KFF Kelly Insana, vice president of marketing & communications, Tennessee Hospital Association

“All-American Girl.” “God Bless the U.S.A.” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” You'll hear these songs many times this summer as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary. But those aren't everyone's anthems. In Nashville, a group of musicians and songwriters are responding to this milestone with something different: unfiltered reflections on what it means to exist in America as Black, Brown, and Queer people living in the South. Through their music, visuals, fashion and performance, they are defining and embracing — or rejecting — American identity and patriotism on their own terms. Guests The Cowgays (Chris Housman, Brooke Eden & Adam Mac) Jewly Hight, senior music writer, Nashville Public Radio Kapali Long, Native Hawaiian Americana Country Blues artist & songwriter Lizzie No, producer, guitarist and harpist Tray Wellington, folk, bluegrass, jazz and contemporary roots music banjo innovator

With one of the oldest tracks in America, racing is part of our city's fabric as one of Nashville's earliest professional sports. Even as diehard fans say it’s time to invest in our history, the sound of the cars has become an unwelcome neighbor amid rapid development south of downtown. Whether you’re a fan or not, it’s worth understanding this deep legacy as we make decisions about the future. Today, we're revving up to chase down our racing roots. And, we want to hear from you. Have you seen fandom fading? What explains that? What got you into racing in the first place? What’s the importance of having a track in the heart of the city? We’re taking your calls during the show at 615-760-2000. You can also send your thoughts through our livestream. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Larry Woody, retired sports reporter Gary Baker, former owner, Bristol Motor Speedway Joseph Love, painter

With Father's Day on the horizon, two dads join us to share their perspectives on love, loss, priorities and fatherhood. After David Fischette stepped away from the day-to-day grind of running his business, he began walking 10,000 steps a day as a personal health challenge. Before long, the habit evolved into a series of “walk and talk” videos exploring themes of love, loss, priorities and codependency, and eventually into Hello Fine Friends, a book that, in part, reflects on his efforts to repair his fractured relationship with his daughters. Then, fatherhood is a public health issue for Robert Taylor. He spent the last few years helping fathers change a few more diapers, and more importantly, see themselves as more than providers. He leads the New Life Center, which has produced a documentary called Fatherhood Beyond the Frame. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Blake Farmer. Guests: David Fischette, founder, Go West Creative; author, Hello Fine Friends Robert Taylor, founder and president, New Life Center

CMA Fest is upon us. How you feel about that will inform whether or not you're hitting up Broadway this weekend. But the festival has a storied past in Nashville, and so do the iconic cowboy boots both fans and performers wear when attending. For this episode, we'll have historians and writers, as well as a seasoned CMA performer and a full-time bootmaker. What's more—we want to hear from you. The number to call in and talk about your boot experiences is 615-760-2000. You can also pop into the chat on our YouTube stream live during the show. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Jewly Hight, WPLN Senior Music Writer Holly George-Warren, Music Historian and Writer Angie K., Country Music Artist Lisa Sorrell, Bootmaker

This summer, much of the nation is commemorating 1776, the year the Thirteen Colonies declared their independence from Great Britain. Tennessee would not become a state for another two decades, but the region that would one day become our Volunteer State was already a place of profound change and activity located on what the founders considered the western frontier. Each Wednesday this month, we're exploring the 250th anniversary of American independence from a different perspective. Today, we explore the Middle Tennessee of 1776. We're examining life on the frontier through the eyes of indigenous people who were here at the time and long before as well as the white settlers trying to expand America’s borders and the enslaved people they forced into frontier life. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Paul Clements, author, Chronicles of the Cumberland Settlements; authority on early settlement life Rob McDonald, Jr., filmmaker, photographer, creator of documentary about James Robertson - founder of Nashville - Native Son: The Untold Story of James Robertson Dr. Raymond Orr, professor of Political Science at UC Santa Barbara; member of the Potawatomi Nation in Oklahoma Dr. Kristofer Ray, associate professor of Early American and Indigenous History at the College of the Holy Cross Dr. Learotha Williams, Jr., professor of African American History, Tennessee State University; North Nashville Heritage Project, Davidson County Historian

Jim Palmer was a crusader for Christianity. He accepted the calling in East Tennessee, went to seminary, and started preaching in one of the largest mega churches in the country. He moved to Nashville to start an offshoot. But then things started to unravel. Faith turned to doubt and then to deconstruction. He was into deconstruction before it was cool, and now he sits down with us to talk about how he's guiding others who are figuring out what’s next after Christianity. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guest Jim Palmer, Post-Religion Spiritual Director and founder of The Center for Non-Religious Spirituality

It takes more than 500 pages for Lamar Alexander to tell the story of his political career, and that’s understandable given his 26 years as Tennessee governor and U.S. senator. We’ll dig into some untold stories from his new memoir, “The Education of a Senator,” which landed on the New York Times Best Seller list this week and we’ll also get his take on the current state of affairs in American politics and take your questions. So, if you’d like to ask a question or comment, join us on air at 615-760-2000 or in the chat at youtube.com/@wpln. Then, we’ll wrap this episode with a timely update on congressional redistricting which turns Tennessee’s last remaining seat held by a Democrat into one that leans Republican.   Guests Lamar Alexander, former U.S. senator, Tennessee governor, U.S. Education Secretary and president of the University of Tennessee Josh Clinton, Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions, Vanderbilt University Marianna Bacallao, WPLN power and equity reporter

Once again, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins This Is Nashville live on the air to answer your questions. From traffic headaches and development concerns to parks, transit, and public safety, this is your opportunity to speak directly with the mayor. What’s going on in your neighborhood that city leaders need to hear about? We’ll also dive into some of the biggest issues facing the city right now – including the budget, taxes, and major building projects shaping Nashville’s future. Stay with us after the mayor and we’ll explore why one local school still bears the name of a segregationist – and why changing that name has proven nearly impossible. We're wrapping the hour with our latest installment of Curious Nashville. Guests Freddie O’Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Camellia Burris, education reporter, WPLN Larry Woods, civil rights attorney and professor of criminal justice, Tennessee State University

Nashville is still stepping onto the global stage during the World Cup. Years ago, uncertainty surrounding the future of Nissan Stadium kept Nashville from becoming a host city. Still, the tournament is bringing an international spotlight to Music City in another way: Samurai Blue, Japan’s national team, has chosen Nashville as its basecamp during the competition. Today, we hear a preview of the players and the competition and what it takes to host a world-class team. We’ll also explore Nashville’s decades-long relationship with Japan – a connection that dates back to the late 1970s, when Gov. Lamar Alexander helped recruit Nissan to build its first American manufacturing plant here. This episode was produced by Justin Barney. Guests Mike Woitalla, executive editor, Soccer America Teresa Tatlonhari, VP of Marketing & Communications, Nashville Soccer Club Mina Johnson, former Councilmember, Metro Nashville Masami Tyson, chief of staff, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell

We’ve done enough tapdancing around touchy words in this important conversation about intimacy and romance in the second half of life. It’s time to hear you do it. What have you learned about your body or being with another that could help the rest of us? We’ll have a sex therapist, a reformed pastor and an open-minded geriatrician in the studio. Call ahead of the show with your intimacy insights or romance recommendations at 615-760-2000.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Raven O'Rourke, Geriatric Sex Therapist James Powers, VUMC Gerontologist Jim Palmer, former Megachurch Pastor

Menopause is having a moment! After generations of misunderstanding, myths and mockery, menopause and perimenopause is starting to get the attention and support it deserves. And no wonder: in the United States, about 6,000 women enter menopause each day, according to scientific data.  In this episode of NextAge Season 2, we’re joining the conversation. You'll hear from some of familiar on-air hosts here at Nashville Public Radio about their experiences and medical experts who specialize in menopause healthcare. Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. This episode was hosted and produced by LaTonya Turner. Guests: Nina Cardona, Morning Edition Host, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Jude Mason, Mid-day Host, WNXP Radio Leigh Mayo, Account Manager, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Megan Jones, Digital Editor, WPLN/Nashville Public Radio Dr. William Lee, Associate Professor Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt Medical Center; certified menopause practitioner  Anne-Ward Eshelman - Nurse Practitioner at HaneyGYN

It’s not that what we learned about the birds and the bees was all wrong. It’s just that it was mostly about procreation and – more likely – focused on how not to make a baby before the time is right. As we've learned in this season of NextAge, baby making and physical intimacy are not the same thing, and that’s especially apparent in the second half of life. In this episode, we bring you the birds and the bees for those who’ve been around the block. It may be a useful discussion for all of us, no matter our age. Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. This episode was produced by Blake Farmer. Guests: Jill Danford, MD, board-certified urogynecologist, Ascension Saint Thomas Melissa Kaufman, MD, PhD, urology professor, Vanderbilt

We’re kicking off Week 2 of our NextAge season on romance, intimacy and our bodies with one of our city’s most interesting citizens: George Rowe. A man who has lived many lives. He’s been a Christian music recording artist with a big publishing deal. He’s been an attorney. And now he heads the Nashville office of Compass Realtors. He’s also lived the life of the stereotypical nuclear American family with his wife and three kids — until something had to change. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  NextAge is made possible in part by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Guest George Rowe, Compass Real Estate principal broker

Love, romance and intimacy can look very different in the second half of life — no matter your gender or sexuality. Today we get stories of gay men growing older together, a trans woman from Coffee County finally living in full expression after a huge loss and a woman with her own coming out story who is now coaching people later in life on how to get through the messy middle and beyond. Throughout a lifetime, one hope is that we never stop growing into ourselves — evolving as we know more, overcome more and love more. On today’s episode of NextAge, we talk with leaders in our LGBTQ+ community to learn how we can become more resilient and kind to ourselves and those around us. Especially in the face of mighty hurdles. Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Guests • Dwayne Jenkins, Nashville Black Pride, Nashville Cares, Brothers United • Ginger Cutrell, transgender community advocate • Anne-Marie Zanzal, Coming Out Coach

Second half of life companionship may look a lot different than the first. Procreation is off the table, merging households holds new logistical challenges, and there’s often grown children with strong opinions to consider.  Whether it’s through death, divorce, or another kind of shift, love, intimacy and romance change as we age. And for many who end relationships that started in the first half of life, what they want out of the second looks very different. Our guests on the show today have, to quote the great Joni Mitchell, seen love from both sides now. They’ve been in love. They’ve been alone. They’ve got mixed feelings and find the beauty in it all. NextAge season 2 continues. Got a story to share for our NextAge series? Leave us a message at 615-751-2500 or chime in during the live show on our YouTube stream. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Guests • Barb Opyt, Learning and Development consultant • Angela Hobbs, retired trainer • Philip Tulimieri, author

NextAge Season 2, our series on romance and intimacy in the second half of life, continues with a deep dive on technology and dating apps.  Smart phones, tablets and computers, social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, and online dating apps like OurTime, SilverSingles, and SeniorMatch help a growing number of seniors find companionship and keep connected with family. However, entering into the digital world isn’t always simple. So how are older adults learning to navigate these platforms? How do they build confidence online? How do we all keep up with constant tech changes — and stay safe? As more seniors explore dating later in life, are these apps working to meet everyone's needs? Today we get some professional advice, tech support, and a safety briefing – all while hearing the good, bad, and in between of the new state of dating. You can join in on the conversation during the noon hour on our YouTube livestream. Listen now to aired episodes of NextAge on our website. This season of NextAge is made possible by a grant from the West End Home Foundation — Advancing Aging with Dignity and Strengthening Communities — and by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Guests Julie Grower, dating app user Chuck Taylor, dating app user June Moore, particpant, Seniors on the Move, Tech Goes Home Dr. Jess Carbino, sociologist; relationship & online dating expert Breana Clark, MSW, program Manager, Senior Renaissance Center Rachel Solava, outreach and advocacy manager, Digital Literacy for Seniors, Greater Nashville Regional Council

Today we kick off NextAge Season 2, a series focused on romance, intimacy, and relationships in the second half of life, with a personal and hilarious conversation with Brenda Kay and Sheri Lynn, the purveyors of NashTrash Tours. For nearly 30 years, Brenda Kay and Sheri Lynn, also known as the Jugg Sisters, have been carting tourists and locals alike around town, showing off the city with their comedy show on wheels. Known for their wigs, makeup, and over-the-top humor, the pair prove that the characters on the big pink bus aren’t far from the real thing: authentic, fearless, and hilarious. Today, the real-life sisters open up about love, aging, intimacy, and things many of us still laugh nervously about discussing out loud. Please note: This episode contains candid conversations about intimacy, aging and physiology that may not be suitable for younger listeners. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. NextAge is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee

Opryland has been closed for nearly 30 years, and as the producer of a new documentary puts it, some people are still “butt hurt” about it. Maybe we didn’t know what we had until it left a theme park-size hole in Nashville’s heart. A documentary premiering at the Nashville Film Festival, called “A Circle Broken,” gives us a good excuse to reopen that wound and hear the story of Opryland like we’ve not heard before, a story about how perhaps Opryland saved the Grand Ole Opry itself. We’re talking to the characters who are keeping the memory alive and hearing your memories of Opryland USA. Guests: Brandon Vestal, filmmaker David Ewing, historian Bob Whitaker, former Opryland General Manager Michael-Demby Cain, Opryland performer who went to Broadway Jennifer Roberts, performer Lynn Wright, half of first couple married at Opryland Sean Hughes, “The Balloon Guy”

The job market seems to be on the downturn, especially if you’re a young person. College graduates are scrambling to get their hands on just about any kind of job — but there are still sectors that need professionals, and schools are listening. Today, we hear some hope from some fresh journalism graduates. Then we'll talk with a graduate of Lipscomb's Accelerated Nursing program to see how she’s holding up in the workforce, and we'll wrap the show learning how Nashville Software School is changing software engineering and addressing AI. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Seth Thorpe, Belmont '26 Terry Prude, TSU '26 Chelsia Harris, Lipscomb University Executive Director of Nursing Peyton Smith, Lipscomb Accelerated Nursing Program Graduate '25 Kate Rogers, Nashville Software School Program Director Ava Dominie, Nashville Software School Graduate

It’s tough to be a kid. It’s tough to be a parent of a kid. And nothing is tougher than when a kid is having a tough time. May is a month set aside for Mental Health Awareness, but it’s always a good time to visit the resources available to children – from disruptive toddlers to teens in a life-and-death crisis. Tennessee has been expanding its no-cost services, but sometimes they're hidden in plain sight. Plus, an interview with musician Mo Sabri about "Tennessee Desi," a project that fuses Appalachian country and south Asian Qawwali in an upcoming performance with the Nashville Symphony.  Guests: Melissa Binkley, director of infant and early childhood initiatives, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Melissa Bayless, technical assistance coordinator, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Diana Jackson, nursing director, Mental Health Cooperative Mo Sabri, musician

Business licenses, marriage licenses, license plates. For some of us, this is our primary interaction with local government – standing in line, navigating the system. In Tennessee, it’s the job of the county clerk to keep those lines moving, or, increasingly, figure out how you don’t have to wait in a line at all. Today, we bring you a timely profile interview with the outgoing Davidson County Clerk, Brenda Wynn. Because we’re electing a new clerk tomorrow, we’ll talk about what she’s learned in 14 years as our line leader and hear her own story from growing up in public housing and becoming a teen mother to beating the odds through serving this city. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Brenda Wynn, Davidson County Clerk

The dust is starting to settle after the annual whirlwind that is the final days of the legislative session at the Tennessee State Capitol. Today we take you inside the halls of power to wrap-up. We hear from reporters who offer their insights into what passed and why, what failed and what might surface again in 2027. From school vouchers and immigration policy to preempting local laws, what were the predominant issues and political dynamics that shaped the laws — and will shape our state’s future? And we want to hear from you: How would you rate legislative performance? Were your priorities addressed? If not, what do you want from lawmakers next year? Join the conversation by calling 615-760-2000 or chiming in on the chat on our live YouTube stream. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Marianna Bacallao, State Legislature reporter, WPLN Sarah Grace Taylor, Statehouse reporter, Nashville Banner Vivian Jones, State government and politics reporter, Tennessean

As usual, it all starts with a question to Curious Nashville:"I live in East Nashville, on Sharpe Avenue. We adopted a hound mix and she digs up bizarre trash. Did people bury their trash? Was there no trash pick up? Auto parts, beer bottles, air gun cartridges, porn videos. Others in East have described similar experiences." We've learned this is not an isolated experience. You folks are obsessed with what you find in the dirt. So, why do we dig what we dig? We're unearthing some answers. The phone lines and our live stream are open for this one. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube stream. Guests: • Whit Hill, metal detectorist, musician • Matt Pilcher, landscaper, Gardens of Babylon • Benjamin C. Nance, Cultural Resource Consultant Manager, Tennessee Division of Archaeology

Our need and desire for connection doesn’t retire as we grow older. NextAge Season 2 explores love, intimacy, and companionship in the second half of life. Through personal stories and expert insight, we’re covering topics from digital dating, sex, and changing bodies to medical myths, healing psyches and long-held identities finally coming into full expression.  Today's episode kicks off another season of our special series featuring stories and information about growing older in the 21st century — and how Middle Tennesseans are reframing aging. In Tennessee, our population that’s 60-plus now includes the oldest GenXers and is projected to grow by 30% in the next 15 years.  Today, we review some of the stories and topics from last year and how it led to new reporting on  what it means to keep falling in love with others — and ourselves. Guests: LaTonya Turner, news editor & on-air host, WPLN News Natasha Senjanovic, journalist & contributing producer

We call ourselves Music City. But for a lot of kids growing up here, music lessons are simply out of reach. There’s a place in Edgehill where lessons still cost fifty cents — just like they did more than 40 years ago. It’s called the W.O. Smith Music School, and hundreds of students benefit from its founding each year. Our guest today is executive director Valerie Cordero. She’s an ethnomusicologist whose own story veered away from music for much of her career. Now she’s back to helping make music every day. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Valerie Cordero, W.O. Smith Music School Executive Director

Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us live in the studio to take your questions –– and nothing is off the table. Today we're asking about Waymo, the Superbowl and the new state laws that will affect the city. But as always, the most important questions are yours. So what’s been bothering you lately? Are you looking forward to next week's State of Metro? Do you have concerns about your city services or something in your neighborhood that just hasn’t been addressed? No matter what it is, this is your chance to ask the man directly. Call 615-760-2000 during the live show or pop into chat on our YouTube stream to join the conversation. After we say goodbye to Mayor O'Connell, Curious Nashville is back to answer the Nashville questions piquing your curiosity. Today, we round out the show with a hot topic in light of the severe weather and the NES kerfuffle the city experienced this winter. Guest Wade Sexton has thirty years of experience working in the utility industry –– on the company side and as a utility contractor –– and he's here to answer a question that's been on our minds: "What would it take to put electrical lines underground? And, would it even be worth it?" Guests: Freddie O'Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Wade Sexton, board member, National Utility Contractors Association

For some, a book is just a book. For others, it can be life-changing, or controversial, or both. When the Age-Appropriate Materials Act was signed into law by Governor Lee in 2022, it paved the way for certain book titles to be challenged and removed from both school and public libraries. Now, the debate about access, education and community values rages throughout the state. What does book banning actually look like? Who’s making these calls — and how do they affect readers? Today, we unpack the issue, share perspectives and talk about what might be at stake when a book disappears from the shelf. Guests: Bruce Barry, opinion columnist, Tennessee Lookout Angele Latham, First Amendment reporter, Tennessean Christina Soontornvat, author; state leader, Authors Against Book Bans

We’re bringing our voices together in harmony. It’s a show where everyone has a part. This is a choir town, after all. And choral music is a communal act. We’re visiting with the symphony chorus, the Crimm singers and Vox Grata. Do your warm ups and join us for a singing on the web, on 90.3 or live streaming on our YouTube channel. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Tucker Biddlecombe, Nashville Symphony Chorus Director Renita Smith-Crittendon, Nashville Symphony Chorus Member Heaven Howard, Nashville Symphony Chorus Member Patrick Dailey, W. Crimm Singers Director Nicole Simone, W. Crimm Singers Assistant Director and Member Brooklyn Cook, W. Crimm Singers Member Jeanette MacCallum, Vox Grata Chorus Founder and Artistic Director Hannah Baisley, Vox Grata Member

At 84, biochemist Billy Hudson is still at it, researching collagen and kidney function. He's been named as a 2026 medal of honor recipient by the Ellis Island Honors Society. An unlikely pioneer in the field of nephrology, Hudson endured poverty and abuse in rural Arkansas, not even finishing high school before he found himself on a welcoming college campus. After a successful research career, he's spent the last two decades trying to make a path to higher education for kids like himself through a program he started with his wife and siblings called Aspirnaut. Not until he was working with kids whose stories rivaled his own trauma did he start dealing with it in a meaningful way.  Note: The details of Hudson's story are somewhat graphic and there is some mention of thoughts of suicide. Further Reading: After Escaping 'Torture' and Poverty as a Kid, Professor Has Helped Thousands of Struggling Students Arkansas scientist behind 'magic' school bus expands learning opportunities for kids Ellis Island Medal of Honor 2026 recipients

It’s Thursday, which means it’s time for our weekly roundtable discussion featuring a variety of voices. Otherwise known as The Roundabout. Today is for anyone who’s ever thought, “I’m not sure I can live here anymore,” or “I just got here and I’m never leaving.” People threaten to leave where they’re from for all kinds of reasons: rising costs, community, limited opportunity, politics, principle, or personal health. After yesterday’s conversation about Tennessee expats, today we’re talking with those who’ve considered leaving and decided to stay, at least for now, as well as folks who came from other parts of the country and found Tennessee a more welcoming place to land. Guests: Malick Gaye, Vice President of Livability, Nashville Chamber of Commerce Margaret Littman, freelance journalist Morgxn, singer/songwriter, owner Fruity Farms

Folks are flocking to Nashville from around the country — and even around the world. Today we explore the other side of the story. As Middle Tennessee’s economy continues to outpace much of the nation, fueled by a steady influx of new residents, there’s also a consistent stream of departures. For some, it was a single inciting moment; for others, a gradual realization over time. Now living as expats, former Nashvillians join us remotely from California, Illinois, Oregon and Maryland to tell their stories. Guests: Dr. Michelle Fiscus, officer at a national non-profit related to public health Josh Black, comedian and artist Bean Chapman, Policy Analyst, Tennessee Equality Project, parent of a transgender adult Christina, parent of a transgender child Kristen Chapman, parent of a transgender child

Tennessee could get about $1 billion to invest in its rural health care over the next five years. Gov. Bill Lee and his administration are drumming up excitement for the plan, which they say is an opportunity to rebuild the state's broken rural health infrastructure. But some critics are worried there may be strings attached. On today's episode of This Is Nashville, our Healthcare Hollow series continues. We’re sorting through the good, the bad and the unknown in this moment of rural health transformation. Guests: Arielle Zionts, rural health correspondent, KFF Health News Jacy Warrell, chief executive officer of the Rural Health Transformation Fund Jessica Snowden, pediatric infectious disease pediatrician and vice chancellor for research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center This episode is part of our Healthcare Hollow series, made possible, in part, by the NIHCM Foundation.

Kevin Dyson was part of the biggest play during the biggest season the Tennessee Titans have had to date. He saw the highs of the Music City Miracle and the bitter lows of being one yard short at Super Bowl XXXIV. And before long, he found his injury-prone career cut short in 2005. He wanted to coach but didn’t have the credentials. So he went back to school and found education was his passion. He earned a doctorate, became a public school principal in Williamson County, and now he’s starting his own athletics-focused charter school in Nashville — Music City Academy, scheduled to open in fall of 2027 if approved by the Metro Schools board of education.  His mother asks him why he doesn’t just take it easy. Dyson points to the title of his book, "Qualified So I Am Justified," and says he’s still got something to prove.

It’s now or never to plant something if it’s going to survive the Middle Tennessee summer. Today, we dedicate our weekly roundabout to the when's, where's and what's to plant — or whether we should plant at all given the dry spring we’ve had. Our panel includes an arborist, a naturalist and a nurseryman and we want to hear from you! The phone lines open at noon at 615-760-2000. You can also pop into chat on our YouTube stream with your questions and thoughts. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Vera Roberts, Warner Park Nature Center Naturalist Michael Davie, Bartlett Tree Experts Arborist Austin Lohin, Bates Nursery Gardening Expert

Tasked with overseeing Title VI compliance, the Metro Human Relations Commission works to ensure that the city’s 10,000 employees can do their jobs free from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Since 2015, the commission has released IncluCivics, a recurring report that looks at the hiring trends, retention rates, and progress toward building a more inclusive environment across departments. The 2026 edition was released today, and in this episode, we take a closer look at what the data reveals. Where is the city making progress, and where do disparities remain? More importantly, how can leaders and communities use this information to drive meaningful change? Later on, we also preview the upcoming Community Needs Evaluation from Metro Social Services. Released yearly for the last seventeen years, this year's report,  "Affordability Issues for African Americans in Nashville: Enduring Legacies. Emerging Issues," focuses on continued affordability challenges facing African Americans in Nashville. Together, these reports raise critical questions about equity, opportunity, and the future of our city. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Dr. Jihan Mohammed, research analyst, Metro Human Relations Commission Rev. Davie Tucker, executive director, Metro Human Relations Commission Harriet Wallace, strategic communications manager, Metro Social Services

America’s rural hospitals are closing at an alarming pace, and Tennessee holds the highest closure rate. In a series of reports this month, WPLN takes an in-depth look at this crisis — how it has harmed communities and what is being done to reverse course. In this episode, Health Reporter Catherine Sweeney and This Is Nashville host Blake Farmer dive into history of these closures. Then, Catherine takes us to Linden — a rural Tennessee town that lost its hospital and got it back. Finally, providers discuss what communities can do to fill in the gaps when traditional health care delivery is hard to find. This episode is part of our Healthcare Hollow series, made possible, in part, by the NIHCM Foundation. Guests Kyle Kopec, Chief Operating Officer, Braden Health Shatiqua Jamerson, Administration and Programs Coordinator, Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center Dr. Charae Farmer-Dixon, Dean, Meharry School of Dentistry at Meharry Medical College

Today we meet Wu Fei, a master of the 21-string Chinese zither known as the guzheng. A classically trained composer and singer, Wu Fei was educated in China’s conservatory system before continuing her studies at Mills College in the United States. She eventually made her home in Nashville, where her sound has evolved through collaborations with local folk artists. Though her roots are deeply classical, it’s the simplicity and emotional clarity of folk music that she has embraced and made her own. In this episode, we explore the history and voice of this ancient instrument, hear it in action, and discover how its sound can reconnect us with something simple and deeply human.

It’s time for our weekly Roundabout – a chance to step back and make sense of the biggest local headlines shaping Middle Tennessee. This week, we unpack the controversy over an Apache helicopter flyby at Kid Rock’s property that drew attention all the way to the White House, the firing of a library director who refused to remove LGBTQ-themed children’s books, and the role of dark money in ad campaigns aimed at protecting pharmacy consolidation. As always, our panel brings perspectives from the left, right, and center — and we make space for your voice, too.  Guests: Levi Ismail, Emmy-award winning journalist, NewsChannel 5’s investigative unit Kiran Sreepada, Former Democratic candidate for Congressional District 5 and former Director of Programs for the States Project Chris Walker, founding partner, The Poplar Group

You could start listing the locally owned restaurants that have closed already this year and tell a pretty dire story: Margot, Varallos, Pelican & Pig. And we’re just three months into the year.  But restaurants that are part of out-of-town investment groups have closed too — all while new concepts are opening up. Is it simply natural churn in a volatile business? We know it’s more expensive than ever to open and maintain a restaurant, so we're looking at the economics and the local food scene with the people who watch it most closely. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests: Jill Melton, Edible Nashville Editor & Founder Brandon Styll, Nashville Restaurant Radio Host and Nashville Area Restaurant Alliance Founder (NARA) Mackensy Lunsford, Senior Dining Reporter, The Tennessean Naima Walker Fierce, Germantown Pub Primary Owner

The White House is experimenting with state-level immigration laws in Tennessee, but most of those proposals have hit resistance, and it's now do-or-die time for any bills. An expansion of private school vouchers is also far from a done deal with some Republicans objecting to doubling the program without performance data available. And the state’s $58 billion budget has lobbyists in a frenzy to make sure their project is included. It’s the biggest business that remains for the Tennessee legislature with members of the state house press corps as our guide. Guests: Marianna Bacallao, power & equity reporter, WPLN News Melissa Brown, bureau chief, Chalkbeat Tennessee Sarah Grace Taylor, reporter, Nashville Banner Erik Schelzig, editor, The Tennessee Journal Mandy Spears, executive vice president, Sycamore Institute

Knuckleball pitchers are a small fraternity, and R.A. Dickey is one of its most notable members. R.A. Dickey learned the unpredictable knuckleball pitch as a last-ditch effort to save his major league baseball career. Once he mastered its spin-free magic, it transformed his game. But for Nashville’s own knuckleball king, that journey paralleled something deeper: an epiphany that reshaped his personal life. Once a risk-taker on and off the field, Dickey now takes his biggest risks in relationships, opening up about past trauma he once feared would push people away. In this episode, we slow down with Dickey to talk about working to end human trafficking, becoming an open book and, of course, the craziest pitch in baseball. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

WNXP is the music discovery go-to in Nashville. On 91.1, listeners get exposed to all kinds of songs not in their regular feed. But it doesn't stop there. They do more than tune in. Listeners play an active role in how playlists are curated, making the station an interactive, communal space for sonic lovers. In this episode, folks who have been with the station since the beginning share their strategies on how they bring their own knowledge base to the work and bust the online algorithms to bring you just the right song. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests  Celia Gregory, WNXP Morning Host Marquis Munson, WNXP Music Director Jason Moon Wilkins, WNXP Program Director Further in WNXP Sonic Cathedral Live Sessions

Each month, Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us live in the studio to take your questions –– and nothing is off the table. We're asking about the latest on budgets and property taxes, updates on fairground racing, and a proposal to expand childcare access in Nashville. But as always, the most important questions are yours. So what’s been bothering you lately? Are you still dealing with lingering issues from the ice storm? Do you have concerns about your neighborhood, city services, or something small that just hasn’t been addressed? No matter how big, this is your chance to ask the man directly. 

Much of Middle Tennessee’s important Native American history has been disturbed by development. This has prompted listeners like Kelly Cannon to wonder what’s been lost. She asked Curious Nashville about something she’d heard about the Brentwood Library:"A colleague recently told me that when the Brentwood Library was built remains were found of ancient Mississippian people, along with evidence of ancient mounds. Is this true? Where were the bodies moved to? Who took responsibility for the remains?" WPLN’s Cynthia Abrams went to find the history of that site and shares the story — and its connections to other local sites, and the national movement for repatriation. We'll also talk to a ProPublica reporter about her reporting for 'The Repatriation Project' and the federal law that requires remains and artifacts to be returned to tribes — as well as the failure of institutions to do so. We also welcome Tom Kunesh, who is working to protect Native American sites across Tennessee. Guests:  Mary Hudetz, Investigative Reporter for ProPublica Tom Kunesh, President of Tennessee Ancient Sites Conservancy

Holly Kernan still needs Google Maps to get around Nashville and she's fine with that. Nashville Public Radio's new CEO came from Oakland, where she spent most of her career in public radio and where, as a fourth-generation Californian, she's a genuine rarity. Those deep roots didn't stop her from spending her entire young adulthood in Spain, though, lost and entirely at home making historical documentaries in her second language. It's a posture she's carried into every chapter of her life. Just over half a year in, we talk about what brought her to Nashville, what she sees in this city and what she believes public radio is now that federal funding is gone. The moment is hard. She'd also argue it's hopeful. By the end of this interview, you just might believe her. This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi.

We’ve learned a lot this week exploring the nuts and bolts of songwriting — from the creative process to the realities of the business. But we also have more questions. Today, three Nashville songwriters in various stages of their careers join us to tell us their stories and answer any lingering curiosities. Plus, they take your calls. Country Music Hall of Fame songwriter Rivers Rutherford, along with Rhys Rutherford and Joybeth Taylor, are in the studio. If you’ve ever wanted to pick the brain of an award-winning songwriter, this is your chance.  This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Mary Mancini. Guests Rivers Rutherford, songwriter, The Highwaymen, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton, Montgomery Gentry, Gretchen Wilson, Trace Atkins and Brooks & Dunn Rhys Rutherford, singer/songwriter, Bailey Zimmerman’s “Is This Really Over?,” ERNEST’s “Hangin’ On (feat. Morgan Wallen),” George Pippen’s “Rest of Our Life” Joybeth Taylor, songwriter, “Choosin’ Texas” by Ella Langley reached #1 at Country Radio

The business of songwriting is a full-blown economy of its own — chock full of jargon like “splits,” “P-R-Os,” “plugger” and “mailbox money.” But what does it all mean? Today we follow the money: how writers get paid, what happens when a song gets cut, what the different kinds of publishing deals are, and what the implications are for copyrights now that AI has come to town. It’s day three of songwriting week and we’re talking about the business of songwriting. This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Mary Mancini. Guests Lydia Schultz Cahill, Sr. Director of Creative Services, SESAC Performing Rights, Nashville Dr. E. Michael Harrington, Musicologist Olivia Rudeen, singer-songwriter Chandler Nicole Sherrill, Senior Director of Creative, Electric Feel Entertainment

Country music songwriter Harlan Howard famously described country music as “three chords and the truth.” He makes it sound simple, but thousands know it’s much more complicated – and it’s different for everyone. It may start with an idea and then come together from there. Or a note or a phrase may come first and then it’s built word by word and note by note. On day two of songwriter week, Grammy-nominated Luke Dick and Grammy-winning Melody Walker, two songwriters with impressive songwriting credits, join Blake in the studio to start from scratch. Together they’ll share ideas, write lyrics, and sample melodies and explain the choices they make along the way. Will inspiration strike? Will the muse show up? And by the end of the hour, will they have a hit song on their hands? This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Mary Mancini. Guests Luke Dick, Grammy-nominated songwriter Melody Walker, Grammy-winning songwriter

She's a subversive storyteller, slipping in sideways with hard-to-swallow truths.  Growing up in Motown, Alice Randall was drawn to the sounds coming from Music City. The dream was to invade the “citadel” of country music, elevate progressive ideas and highlight the Black roots of a very white genre. She would become the first Black woman to co-write a number one country hit — Trisha Yearwood’s “XXX’s and OOO’s.” She got her number one, made it big as a publisher, then got a little burned. So she assumed new roles. Randall has come to be viewed as a "griot" for the way she preserves and promotes the overlooked history of country music as laid out in her 2024 book "My Black Country." From her early days in Nashville learning the craft from Steve Earle to her evolution into a best-selling author and professor at Vanderbilt, she has her own remarkable stories to tell. This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.

We started the year with a strong roster of profile episodes, each featuring an outstanding guest with a story that’s made a local impact. But six of them stood out to us, and we want to give listeners a recap. In today's episode we feature an Olympic Gold Medalist, a public school teacher who performs drag, one of the few Black artists to ever crack the Billboard country charts and more. So you can see why we had to make a profile playlist to recap the last couple of months. We cast a wide net when we search for profile candidates. And we had quite the catch. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Blake Farmer. 

Unemployment rates are still quite low. But they don’t tell the whole story. The face of joblessness has changed in recent years. Mid-career professionals, six-figure family breadwinners, are finding themselves laid off or downsized and seeing far fewer options than they expected. We’ll talk with some of them. Get some career coaching. And check in with a labor economist to understand what’s going on here.   This episode was produced by Blake Farmer. Guests: Brett Kling, human resources information systems professional and job seeker Steve Jones, marketing and communications and job seeker Lynise Harris, professional executive coach and lead career coach at UpRise Nashville Lauren Kiproff-Downer, organizational development consultant at Perpara Organizational Development and facilitator of the career transitions group for Middle Tennessee SHRM Celeste Carruthers, professor and labor economist, University of Tennessee — Knoxville

Today we travel along with Music Citizens to go inside the highest stakes job in the industry – A&R. Through the lens and life of A&R lifer Kim Buie, we get to see that this glamorous job is mostly about losing: missing out on artists who become superstars (her near-miss tale of N.W.A. is amazing), knowing that the majority of albums you help shepherd into the world will flop, and being the person who has to say no to a musician’s lifelong dream. Buie, and guests Stevo Robertson and Anay Richardson, explain what keeps them going, what shapes their tastes and how their approach to the job differs. It is the TikTok era after all. Guests Kim Buie, A&R veteran Anay Richardson, A&R coordinator, Prescription Songs Steve Robertson, Label founder & Co-president, Severance Records Music Citizens is a podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio about the people who make music work. Each episode will explore what it takes to do the jobs that keep the music business moving and introduce you to the characters who are often well known within their worlds but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Listen to all episodes at wnxp.org.

Alex and Eiman Jahangir on fulfilling their dreams and prioritizing family

It’s time for our weekly Roundabout where our panel with an assortment of viewpoints take on the headlines of the week.  If you’re wondering why there’s so much talk about property taxes in Nashville, it’s partly because 2025 taxes were due last week and a lot of homeowners and businesses simply can’t afford it. It’s hard to complain about the value of your property doubling or tripling in the last decade — but selling isn’t a simple solution. There’s new movement from local businesses pushing back, and the state legislature is advancing a cap on future increases.  Today we dive deep into local issues including this considerable increase in property taxes, the risk of sinkholes from the tunnel construction and the proposed six-lane boulevard that’s part of the East Bank development project. And we hear from you! Call 615-760-2000 with your question or comment during the show. Or, you can chime in on our live YouTube stream. Guests Cynthia Abrams, Metro Reporter, Nashville Public Radio Lauren Morales, Chief Operating Officer, TomKats Hospitality Tom Wills, Community Volunteer

This may be a healthcare town but, even here, figuring our way around the system – affordably – is a real challenge. And it's becoming a greater challenge for many people who've dropped coverage because the Affordable Care Act Marketplace has become anything but affordable. In this episode, we tour our federally-qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community clinics, get some help for anyone without insurance who finds out they're pregnant, and learn the value of HealthQ. Guests:  Cara Anthony, HealthQ co-host and reporter, KFF Health News Katina Beard, CEO, Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center Sade L Davis, board chair, Neighborhood Health Katie Richards, CEO, Siloam Health Dr. Rohini Chakravarthy, medical director, Vanderbilt's Shade Tree Clinic This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.

A glistening mane flowing over disproportionately top-heavy muscles, bulging under hairless and perfectly-tanned skin. This zeus of a man holds the tiniest of women, also top heavy and surely breathless. No shade on Fabio, but what about the rest of us? The romance genre is seeing a new era. Still every bit as fun — and hot — authors and readers are steering away from "inspiration porn" and towards experiences they understand. From swiftly expanding queer options, to body size and ability, to...merfolk...we've got your happily ever after. From romance book stores to dedicated book clubs to a genre-expanding author, this episode sheds light on why we're no longer hiding the covers of what we're reading, even in the traditionally conservative South. Guests • Tonya Pineda, owner, Slow Burn • Katie Garaby, coordinator, Between the Covers Romance Book Club • Caleb Haynes, romance novel enthusiast • Tracy Crum, newly self-published author of "On The Outside", a love story where disability isn't the tragedy

It started with one request to speak to a group of risk analysts. Former Vanderbilt nurse RaDonda Vaught reluctantly told her story on a stage for the first time — she was still on probation from her felony conviction. "It was emotionally overwhelming and a little cathartic, but I'm gonna tell you, you could have heard a pin drop," Vaught tells This Is Nashville. She's gotten used to recounting the incident and the courtroom saga that followed, but she still chokes back tears when talking about the family of Charlene Murphey, the 75-year-old patient who died. Vaught's medication error, which involved overriding a safety system, resulted in losing her nursing license and being convicted of a felony. "There won't ever be a day that goes by that I won't think of this. My life will never be the same," she says in a wide-ranging interview on her sheep farm in Sumner County. This episode was produced by Blake Farmer.

It’s time for our weekly Roundabout, where our panel representing views across the political spectrum dives into the biggest headlines of the week.  We take a deep look at new details surrounding immigration enforcement in Middle Tennessee, including an investigation by a media collaborative including Nashville Banner, as well as challenges to marriage equality and gender-affirming surgeries. We also discuss the latest developments with the underground Tesla loop. And we hear from you! Call 615-760-2000 with your question of comment. You can also chime in on our live YouTube stream. Guests Sarah Grace Taylor, reporter, Nashville Banner Bill Phillips, former deputy mayor for Bill Purcell and John Cooper, Republican analyst Sophie Esteves Varvella Vicente, MDiv student, Vanderbilt Divinity School

Mayor Freddie O’Connell is back for another edition of Ask the Mayor. We’ve been through a lot since he was on the show last month. Today we start with questions about the ongoing ice storm recovery and the official review of the city’s response. Plus, property taxes, a change in leadership at NDOT, park recovery and debris removal. What are you wondering besides where on earth all the tree detritus is going? You can call in during the live show at 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube stream. We end the hour with Curious Nashville and a mysterious bunker-looking structure at the edge of the international airport. What is it? We get some answers. Guests Freddie O'Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Brent Freeman, deputy director, Metro Water Services Sonia Allman, public information officer. Metro Water Services

Independent theater could turn any one of us from a spectator into an on-stage participant. It provides a spotlight for people of all ages to share important human stories, build confidence and work as a team to create something that can touch us all. But theater — even on a shoestring — still takes space. And good luck finding an empty stage in a room with good acoustics (along with free parking). We’re putting independent theater in center stage. Guests Anne Veal, Unscripted Improv Daniel Jones, Oz Arts, Kindling Arts Shawn Whitsell, Destiny Theatre Experience Bryce McDonald, Producing Director & CEO, Cumberland County Playhouse

People come to Nashville from all over the world to make country music. Rissi Palmer is one of the many. But she’s also one of the few — one of the few to ever crack the Billboard country charts, and fewer still to do it as a Black woman. Nearly two decades ago, “Country Girl” announced her to the world. The song was a declaration that you don’t have to be from Arkansas or speak with a drawl to belong in country music. She had a line in there that touched on race, too. Her label made her take it out. A lot has changed since then — and a lot hasn’t. Country music is still working out who gets to belong, who gets to be heard, and who gets to tell their own story without compromise. Rissi Palmer has spent the better part of 20 years figuring out her own answer to those questions, and her new album “Perspectives” is where she lands. It’s as country as anything she’s ever made, but her music no longer backs away from her Blackness. In this conversation, Palmer talks about the long road from that first charting single to where she stands today — as an artist, an advocate, and the founder of Color Me Country Radio. She talks about what it took to stay in this industry on her own terms, what she wishes she’d known, and what “Perspectives” is really trying to say. This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi.

It's Thursday which means it's another edition of The Roundabout. Today we focus on race, DEI backlash, race and redevelopment. What’s been your experience? How are you feeling about where the pendulum is swinging? It’s a delicate conversation, handled with care — and requires your voice! We take your calls during the show at 615-760-2000 and you can also chime in on our live YouTube stream. Guests Angela Crumpton, Community Engagement Specialist, Black Mental Health Village Timothy D. Hughes, Interim president of the Nashville Branch of the NAACP; New commissioner on Mayor’s Winter Storm Response Commission Amiee Sadler, LMSW, Executive Director, Miriam’s Promise

Music put Nashville on the map. And specifically, it’s our music museums putting us on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail map. Jefferson Street Sound Museum and the new Museum of Gospel and Christian Music have just been added to the must-see landmarks — joining the National Museum of African American Music. Today, we go for a trifecta, visiting all three in one hour. This episode was produced by Blake Farmer and Mary Mancini. Guests Lorenzo Washington, founder, curator and president, Jefferson Street Sound Museum Karen Coffey, vice president, Jefferson Street Sound Museum Bill Jeffries, executive director, National Museum of African American Music Romello Smith, artist relations and fan engagement, National Museum of African American Music Jackie Patillo, Gospel Music Association Doe, recording artist Steve Gilreath, executive director, Museum of Gospel and Christian Music

Crime is down — way down. But many of us don’t feel safe. At least that’s what the latest survey data tells us. What’s going on there? Do you feel safe in your city? What are you worried about? What have you seen that has you looking over your shoulder? We’re exploring this contradiction on the show today. Guests with lived experience and professional backgrounds in criminal justice and anxiety are here to answer your questions. Our phone lines are open at 615-760-2000 and you can also pop in chat on our live YouTube stream! This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests  Lonnell Matthews, Metro Nashville Juvenile Court Clerk Stephanie Nesbitt, North Nashville Resident Emily DeSalvatore, Licensed Behavioral Therapist, Nashville Anxiety

The annual State of the Child Report released by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth shows fewer kids are living in poverty. The report also indicates academic improvement post-pandemic, particularly in TCAP Math scores. However, mental health remains a concern, as does the integration of technology in everyday life. On today's show, we speak with representatives from Tennessee state government and also focus on School Choice legislation impacting public school funding. This is a roundabout edition of This Is Nashville. Join the conversation by calling 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube livestream. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Camellia Burris, WPLN Education Reporter Kylie Graves, Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth Director of Data, Policy, & Communications Chelsea Crawford, TennesseeCAN Executive Director Maryam Abolfazli, Rise and Shine Tennessee Founder

As of this month, nearly 400,000 immigrants have been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. And ICE continues to carry out public raids and individual seizures across the country. As their tactics become more aggressive, we look at the rights of the detained, of witnesses and of property and business owners. We also take a closer look at the immigration legislation beginning to be debated in the Tennessee General Assembly. Call 615-760-2000 during the show — or pop into the chat on our YouTube stream — to ask questions and share your insights. Guests Judith Clerjeune, Advocacy Director, Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition Luis Pedraza, Music City Migrawatch Emily Stotts, Legal Director, Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors

We just lived through the same crisis — an ice storm that froze Nashville in place for the better part of a week and caused the worst power outage the city has ever seen. While we all experienced it, everyone’s experience was different, even from one neighbor to the next. Some lost power for two weeks. Others had lights and heat the whole time. Some had trees split their home in two. Others just had to clean up a few sticks. Some had frozen pipes that left them homeless. Others were already unhoused and “remarkably unbothered” by the cold. The ice storm of 2026 will become a core memory for many of us. For others, the outages and related damage is the least of our problems. Reactions have ranged from anger to empathy and resignation to activation. Today, we’re doing a bit of an autopsy on the emotional anatomy of a collective crisis. We’ll look at how we should process all that these last two weeks brought up, and we’re taking your calls later in the hour. Guests Kate Martin, M.Ed., LPC-MHSP, The Estuary Ashley Hampton, Director, Healing In The Margins Anita Richardson, native Nashvillian and new participant in the NES solar program Rev. Dr. Kate Fields, Associate Chaplain for Community Life and Justice Ministry, St. Augustine's Episcopal Church

Chef Ericka Fizer made it her life’s work to take care of others even as she endured her own hardships — starting with feeding her siblings when she was growing up. Her mother was frequently absent, battling addiction. Fizer overcame her own challenges but never saw herself as a victim of her circumstances. Then on Easter Sunday 2024, her restaurant was the site of a mass shooting. In trying to stop the violence, she was wounded and became a survivor. Part of her recovery has included telling her own story. She talks to “This Is Nashville” about resilience, breaking cycles and the art of failing.

The streets are lined with trunks and limbs awaiting pickup. The power is back on for most — though not all. And the ice and snow is largely gone. But the response is going to be discussed and debated for a long time to come and we start in this episode with our roundabout panel: columnist Bruce Barry of the Tennessee Lookout, WPLN’s Metro Reporter Cynthia Abrams and attorney Rita Roberts-Turner, former chief of staff for a former Nashville mayor. Plus, we take your questions and comments at 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube stream! Guests Cynthia Abrams, Metro Reporter, WPLN Bruce Barry, columnist, Tennessee Lookout Rita Roberts-Turner, attorney, Klein, Solomon Mills; former chief of staff for a former Nashville mayor

It’s the 10-year anniversary of Curious Nashville and we’re revisiting some of the weirdest and most surprising questions you’ve asked. This means we're going underground to a fallout shelter, to the top of a skyscraper, and in between we’ll visit beehives, talk about dump trucks, and revisit some infamous pranksters. In this ep, you get to go behind the scenes of the reporting with WPLN Metro Reporter Cynthia Abrams and host Tony Gonzalez. Curious Nashville is powered by listener questions — and what you ask often leads to wonderful stories, fascinating characters and even more curiosity about the community around us. Have a curious question? Hit us up at wpln.org/curious-nashville

We grapple with our precious and destructive trees. Winter storm Fern may have been misnamed because it was actually hardwoods and hackberries wreaking so much havoc. The local canopy will never be the same. And for those of us who lived through this storm, we may never again see limbs near power lines as non-threatening. Today, we talk about protecting our trees and our power grid, plus we take your pressing questions about storm insurance claims. Guests Kevin Walters, Spokesperson, Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance Chris Leonard, Board Chair, Tree Conservation Corps Daniel Pittman, Local Claims Adjuster, Goodman-Gable-Gould/Adjusters International

This city isn’t known as an ice skating mecca. Far from it. There were only a couple of places to even lace up and glide until a few years ago. But this is where Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton decided to relocate as he wrapped up his skating career.  As the 2026 Winter Olympic Games approach, we thought it best to talk to someone with firsthand experience about what it's like to skate under those lights with the whole world watching. Scott Hamilton is a 1984 Sarajevo Winter Games Olympic Gold Medalist. He joins us to talk about his Nashville story, his unlikely skating career and his turn to philanthropy and faith. 

Life is starting to get back to normal for some, but not nearly for all. Power restoration is still slow-going in some communities. One in five homes in Nashville is still in the dark and cold. And in some parts of town, work has hardly begun. This hour, we’re going to get an update about the arrival of the National Guard, hear about schools running out of snow days, and learn the warning signs about carbon monoxide poisoning. Plus we’ll visit Brown’s Diner where they’re emptying the freezer before it goes bad — and we remember the ice storm of 1994. It’s another recovery show. After the live show ends, tune into the latest Mayor's News Conference. Guests:  Rep. Caleb Hemmer (D), Tennessee House Representative, District 59 Camellia Burris, WPLN Education Reporter John Isbell, Sumner County Mayor Rose Gilbert, WPLN General Assignment Reporter Nadine Moore, Birria Babe Owner Justin Barney, WPLN Music Reporter

Multiple days without power is taking its toll on both our spirits and on Middle Tennessee's infrastructure. Water main breaks and power loss to pumping stations is causing more water outages as Nashville thaws and nearly 100,000 people are still in the dark with no heat. Many residents are at a loss for what to do next. In this episode, we air Metro Nashville's daily press conference live from Mayor Freddie O'Connell's office, a live interview with Metro Water Services deputy director Brent Freeman, a few hotel dispatches and a check-in on our tiniest (and cutest) residents. Guests Dale Grimes, mayor of Oak Hill Leesa LeClaire, President and CEO, Greater Nashville Hospitality Association Brent Freeman, deputy director & Sonia Harvat, Public Information Officer, Metro Water Services Cynthia Abrams, WPLN Metro Reporter

It’s day two of our live coverage of the large-scale snow and ice storm affecting all of Middle Tennessee. Hundreds of thousand Middle Tennesseans remain in the dark and cold. As crew members work to restore the power grid to normal operations, we bring you answers to FAQ and the latest on where the region stands in terms of power and emergency management. Guests Brent Baker, Vice President and Chief Customer Innovation Officer, Nashville Electric Service (NES) Amy Byers, Marketing & PR coordinator, Middle Tennessee Electric Alex Pellom, Chief of Staff, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA)

A large-scale snowstorm crippled much of the nation over the weekend, including all of Middle Tennessee. "This Is Nashville" provided live updates about downed power lines, safety tips, and where to go to warm up. As outages persist statewide, electric companies are working around the clock to ensure power is restored as swiftly as possible. In this episode, we hear from locals and WPLN reporters about the latest. We also take your calls. The number to reach us is 615-760-2000. Guests:  Justin Barney, WPLN Music Reporter Catherine Sweeney, WPLN Health Reporter

This week, our Roundabout panel discusses President Donald Trump’s second first year. Have we entered “The golden age of America” as President Trump said during his inauguration speech — or something else entirely? Immigration policy. The economy. Military action in foreign lands. We break it all down. Plus, we want to hear from you. Call 615-760-2000 during the live show or pop into chat on our YouTube stream to weigh in with your question or comment. Guests: Mike Floss, Co-founder, Southern Movement Committee Ian Shapiro, PhD, Political Science, Tennessee State University Chris Walker, Founding partner, The Poplar Group

It’s hard to make heads or tails of the housing market in Nashville. You’ve got McMansions sitting for months and starter homes swept up in a flash. If you’re selling you’re a little nervous. If you’re buying, you’re also a little nervous. Can it really be that you need a six-figure income to be a homeowner in Middle Tennessee? We’ve got your market report. A homebuyer, a real estate agent, an academic and a policy maker. And you. We’re taking your calls today. Join our real estate reality check. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Kenneth Chilton, TSU Professor of Public Administration Dexter Evans, active homebuyer Gabriela Lira, Real Estate Agent, The Lira Group Rollin Horton, Nashville Metro Councilmember (District 20)

We bring Leonard Slatkin to our podium on the eve of his first performance in this new era at the helm of the Nashville Symphony. He’s one of the most prominent American conductors of our time, and he’s back in town 20 years after serving a similar interim period between permanent conductors. We get reacquainted, talk about the state of classical music and take your calls live later in the show at 615-760-2000. This episode was produced by host Blake Farmer.

The Tennessee General Assembly reconvenes for another session this week. Today we take you inside the halls of power to preview the key issues, potential legislation and the political dynamics that will shape the next few months – and our state’s future.  We hear from reporters who offer insights into what’s at stake and break down major topics expected to dominate the conversation in the coming months — from school vouchers and immigration policy to targeting drag shows. It's a lot. And we want to hear from you: What issues are important to you? And what do you want from lawmakers in the coming months? Join the conversation by calling 615-760-2000. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Sam Stockard, Reporter and Columnist, Tennessee Lookout Marianna Bacallao, State Legislature Reporter, WPLN Mandy Spears, Executive vice president, The Sycamore Institute

Is Major League Baseball on the horizon? Women's basketball? Nascar? Today we check in on the professional sports eco-system in Nashville: baseball, football, soccer, how far hockey has come — and the $2 billion dome going up for a team that’s coming off one of its worst seasons to date. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Emma May-Bradley, Co-founder, Playmakers; sports marketing professional David Boclair, Veteran Nashville sports reporter, host of First & Tenn pod and Digital Producer for Nashville Banner Will General, Director of Marketing, Music City Baseball Johari Matthews, Vice President & Executive Director of ONE Community & Titans Foundation, Board of Directors,  Playmakers Nate Rau, Axios Nashville Erin Ryder, Professor of Practice, Department of Sport Administration, Belmont University; Co-founder,  Playmakers

It might be hard to believe after a visit to Lower Broadway, but fewer people are drinking these days – at least that’s what folks are telling pollsters. According to Gallup, people say they are abstaining from alcohol more now than in the past 85 years. Besides being generally better for your health, going booze-free has become fashionable. On today's show, we’re exploring what it looks like to dry out in a drinking town – from non-alcoholic alternatives to navigating a wet world while sober. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests: Michael Caldwell, MD, Meharry Medical College Stephanie Styll, Killjoy Booze-Free Beverage Shop Owner Ian Cox, Milestone Brands (Empress 0.0 Indigo Gin) Hal Tayip, Titans Enthusiast, Kurdish American Further reading:  WPLN: Navigating Nashville's nightlife scene while sober WPLN: Out, About: You don't need a drink in Nashville to have fun!  The Tennessean: Why NA drinks, mocktails can be tricky for those of us in recovery

What kind of person can light up the stage at the Lipstick Lounge and a 7th-grade classroom? A genuine original named Benjamin Slinkard, that’s who. Ben, also known as Kennedy Ann Scott, is the 2022 Metro Schools Teacher of the Year. Kennedy Ann is a local favorite drag queen and community staple. Today, we chat with Benjamin about growing up in a small Missouri town, the birth and longevity of Kennedy Ann, and the life experiences that connect the two. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

Today our Roundabout panel of guests focuses exclusively on Venezuela, breaking down the consequences of the president’s capture and the potential impact felt here Middle Tennessee. And we take your calls. Are you celebrating the fall of a dictator? Concerned about what comes next? Confused about how this impacts our Venezuelan neighbors? Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

Freddie O’Connell is back for the first “Ask the Mayor” of 2026! Today, along with your questions, we'll ask him about East Bank development, the main Public Library branch, racing at The Fairgrounds and more. Plus, the phone lines will stay open for you to shout out your upcoming community event. Joining us to talk about WPLN's weekly event amplification, What Where Whens-day, is curator and WNXP music director Marquis Munson. Call 615-760-2000 — or pop your question or event into chat — we’re streaming live today at youtube.com/@wpln. Guests Freddie O’Connell, Mayor, Metro Nashville and Davidson County Marquis Munson, What Where When-sday curator and WNXP music director

Shape-note singing is one of the oldest musical traditions in this country. It’s a practice that began in colonial America, and after centuries of ups and downs in popularity, today it’s finding an expanded and surprisingly diverse new following. And some of its singers believe the music can teach democracy a thing or two. Join hosts Laura Atkinson and Justin Hicks as they trace the shape-note tradition from its origins 200 years ago to the largest Sacred Harp singing in living memory. “Shapes of America” is a special from Louisville Public Media and the Appalachia + Mid-South Newsroom.

Our guest this hour is the frontman of the punk rock trio The RIP Taylors. Their latest album – Negativity Bias – has songs with titles like “I still don’t believe in you,” “I gotta bad attitude,” and “I’m not like…ya know…whatever.” It’s the passion project of Mikey Noechel, who thinks a lot about our state of mind. He’s a Buddhist teacher who guides the Wild Heart Meditation Center on the east side. From ritzy retreat halls to Riverbend Maximum Security Prison, he’s teaching mindfulness wherever he finds himself. And he’s helping us face the new year together. 

Although This Is Nashville broadcasts from our studios in Metrocenter, sometimes we let the producers out in the wild to collect tape. If editors find it compelling enough, producers develop a feature out of what they collected. On today’s best-of edition of This Is Nashville, we take a behind-the-scenes look at what went into producing some of 2025’s feature stories that aired both during the show and on the news side. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Tasha A.F. Lemley, This Is Nashville Managing Editor Josh Deepan, This Is Nashville Multimedia Producer Mary Mancini, This Is Nashville Multimedia Producer Featuring Harm reduction in Tennessee: a week of perspectives How the Eviction Right to Counsel Program supports evictees Neither 'Monkeytown' nor Bible thumpers

Every week This is Nashville presents The Roundabout where we bring together a panel of guests spanning the political spectrum to unpack the week’s biggest news and hear directly from listeners across Middle Tennessee. For this special “Best of…” episode we revisit some of the most timely conversations, surprising moments of agreement, and thoughtful opinions. Featuring How will Vanderbilt answer Trump? with Marianna Bacallao, state legislative reporter, WPLN; Rep. Jody Barrett, state house representative; Bruce Barry, Vanderbilt professor;  Tennessee Lookout contributor Vouchers with Maryam Abolfazli, founder of Rise & Shine TN; Shaka Mitchell, Sr. Fellow for the American Federation for Children; Pat Nolan, political analyst and retired journalist The real-world economy with Molly Davis, Reporter, The Tennessean; Kara Smith, PhD, Belmont University Professor of Economics; Mandy Spears, Executive Vice President, The Sycamore Institute Southern Christians and the death penalty with Liam Adams, religion reporter, Tennessean; Russell Moore, Editor at-large of Christianity Today; Dr. Phillis Sheppard, professor of religion and psychology, Vanderbilt University

A songwriter who climbed out of the shadow of her first song, a nonprofit leader who refuses to see his own disability, a restaurateur with a hot take on tourism, a humorist who leaned into her heritage, a forward-thinking physician who rediscovered her mom’s remedies, and the sentimental saint of the Opry. It's the best of our weekly profile interviews, all in one episode.  Further listening: Tia Sillers Fred Bailey Tom Morales Andi Marie Tillman Dr. Britt Stone Whisperin' Bill Anderson

Nashville has a long history of celebrating the holidays with musical performances. Nashville has a long history of celebrating the holidays with musical performances. Belmont’s Christmas Eve concert played on their tower’s 42-bell carillon dates back to 1929. Amy and Vince have been gracing the Ryman Stage since 2008. Today we feature holiday music traditions that exist beyond the mainstream, in pockets throughout the city. A Longest Night Solstice Eve gathering and Moon Requiem at St. Augustine's. A sampler of holiday songs released by indie label yk Records. And a holiday shopping anthem by local Post-punk/power-pop legends, Tower Defense. Guests Michael Eades, Owner, YK Records Jereme Frey | Drummer, Tower Defense Mike Shepherd | Guitar, Tower Defense Rev. Scott Owings | Associate Chaplain and Pastoral Leadership, St. Augustine’s Christopher Roberts

If you see a man with three, maybe four cameras hanging around his neck, odds are you've crossed paths with Ray Di Pietro. He's literally taken millions of photos of Nashville, documenting anything from historic moments to flowers on the sidewalk. He follows three mantras in his profession: do the work, show up, and be kind. Now, he shows up in our studio to kindly share what makes him so passionate about his work in Nashville and how a visual rendition of the city’s history adds to the local fabric.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guest: Ray Di Pietro, photojournalist

Mary Elizabeth Vinett died on November 21, 2025, and her family decided her 90 years on the planet deserved more than the average obituary. So they tried to capture her essence starting with the first paragraph.  "Beth was loved by all, perhaps because she was so outrageously funny," they wrote. "A storyteller extraordinaire who changed the essence of a room just by entering it. She smoked with a style and elegance that made you wonder why you ever quit." May we all be remembered so colorfully. The end of the year puts us in a reflective mood, so collectively we're remembering those we've lost in Middle Tennessee during 2025. With the help of listeners submitting one-minute memorials or calling in live, we’re celebrating long lives and lives cut short and remembering their contributions to our community, large and small.    Plus, a visit to the East Nashville wind telephone, where calls connect to lost loved ones. Guests: Christal Pennic, therapist and founder of The Grief Center Almeta Slater-Rogers, founder and CEO of UnSaid Memories  Further reading: Jen Alexander Bobby Cain Dot Dobbins Lucille Duke Vincent Martin Marquez Ruel Oquindo Marjorie Pisapia Mary Elizabeth Vinett Ridley Wills II  

A simple aluminum pole. The annual airing of grievances. The legendary feats of strength. It can only mean one thing: It’s Festivus - the holiday for the rest of us.  And to kick the Festivus season off right this year,  Mayor Freddie O’Connell will be here to take your questions and comments…and maybe demonstrate a few feats of strength. Now, the very first Festivus may not have included Ask the Mayor…or the Muppets…or 8 french horns…but ours does. It’s Festivus for the Rest of Us! Call 615-760-2000 to ask Freddie — or pop your question into chat — we’re streaming live today at youtube.com/@wpln. Special thanks to Mark Lemley and Daniel Jones. Guests Freddie O’Connell, Mayor, Metro Nashville and Davidson County Nashville Horn Hang  Elaine Braun - Conductor  Rich Davis  Leigh-Anne Eftychiou  Walter Everton  Clare Gibson  Julia Hedrick  Tim Mullican  Kent Stewart  Glenn Trew   Kindling Arts Festival takes on The Muppets Christmas Carol  Emma Supica (Gonzo)  Cammie York (Rizzo)  Seth Nathan Green (Kermit)    

It’s Curious Nashville: where WPLN News answers your questions about Middle Tennessee and takes you on a monthly adventure to find answers.  Today we’re shining a light on an obscure album recorded in Nashville more than 50 years ago that features a Christmas choir performing inside the lobby of a downtown bank. Astute local listener Matthew Bond came across the record two decades ago and wondered: Why did a bank form a choir? And what were their performances like? In today's story, we revisit the city's banking history and learn just how popular an all-volunteer choir became. We're also talking with two gurus of Christmas music collecting, and taking your calls and questions — live! Guest experts on Christmas music: Andy Cirzan, Jam Productions senior vice president Howard Petruziello, Red Light Management / ATO Records Justin Barney, WPLN News music reporter Further listening:Sound Opinions: Andy Cirzan’s 2023 Holiday Spectacular

Marie Williams came up through homeless services in Memphis and found her way to the state agency that oversees mental health and substance abuse services when Gov. Bill Haslam appointed her to lead the agency she’s now been a part of for 25 years. She talks about her life, her work and her philosophy that has guided her career trying to fight off the stigma of the heartless bureaucrat.

What happens when government funding is withheld from a public university that’s served generations of Black Tennesseans? And what could be possible if that debt were finally paid? Today's This is Nashville call-in episode is a companion to the one-hour radio special from WPLN News and the Tennessee Lookout. Listen now or though the WPLN podcast feed. From Nashville Public Radio and the Tennessee Lookout, The Debt traces Tennessee State University’s decades-long fight for fair funding — through an overlooked Civil Rights lawsuit, a historic merger with a predominantly white university, a dramatic student hunger strike, and a lawmaker who discovered his father’s old research on underfunding. This episode was produced by Camellia Burris. Guests: Dr. Learotha “Dr. Lee” Williams, Jr., Scholar of African-American Civil War and Reconstruction, and Public History at Tennessee State University Dr. George Pruitt, retired university administrator; former president, TESU; former vice-president of student affairs at TSU; author, From Protest to President Camellia Burris, Education reporter, WPLN Emily Siner, Contributing reporter, WPLN

In this one-hour special from WPLN and the Tennessee Lookout: What happens when government funding is withheld from a public university that's served generations of Black Tennesseans? And what could be possible if that debt were finally paid?

On days when someone is executed at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville, community members are generally allowed to gather outside the prison in a large field. Separated by fences and distance are the "against" and "for" sides. The "againsts" are usually made up of a few dozen clergy and abolitionists, including one of our guests today — death row chaplain Rev. Tim Holton. The "for" side tends to be much slimmer. Frequently, there's just one man: our other guest, Rick Laude. During the course of their conversation in the TIN studio, they learn their lives have a lot in common, particularly the childhood trauma they experienced. This organically turned into a conversation between them and not an interview by us. We're along for the ride with you — and grateful to be in the room.

When Andi Marie Tillman moved to Nashville from Scott County, Tennessee, she had dreams of writing the next hit song. But after years of struggling, she looked at her own story and got creative with how she wanted to share it with her audience. After the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic passed, Andi Marie began posting videos on social media. They made waves almost instantly. Now, she works as a full-time humorist and digital creator in Nashville. She joins us in the studio to share her journey, her process, and her plans for bigger projects. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Andi Marie Tillman, humorist

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. This week, our weekly Roundabout panel turns its attention to issues of religion. We're discussing evangelicals and Nazi ideology, Christians’ relationship to the death penalty, and ICE raids taking place in churches. We welcome Vanderbilt’s Dr. Phillis Sheppard, Russell Moore of Christianity Today and Liam Adams from The Tennessean to help unpack these urgent and complex topics. And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in – or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Liam Adams, religion reporter, Tennessean Russell Moore, Editor at-large of Christianity Today; host of The Russell Moore Show podcast; author of Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America Dr. Phillis Sheppard, E. Rhodes and Leona Chair Professor of Religion and Psychology and Culture; Faculty liaison for research and education, James Lawson Institute for the Research and Study of Non-violent Movements

Today we travel along with Music Citizens to go inside the highest stakes job in the industry – A&R. Through the lens and life of A&R lifer Kim Buie, we get to see that this glamorous job is mostly about losing. Missing out on artists who become superstars (her near-miss tale of N.W.A. is amazing), knowing that the majority of albums you help shepherd into the world will flop and being the person who has to say no to a musician’s lifelong dream. Buie, and guests Stevo Robertson and Anay Richardson, explain what keeps them going, what shapes their tastes and how their approach to the job differs. It is the TikTok era after all. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Kim Buie, A&R veteran Anay Richardson, A&R coordinator, Prescription Songs Steve Robertson, Label founder & Co-president, Severance Records Music Citizens is a podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio about the people who make music work. Each episode will explore what it takes to do the jobs that keep the music business moving and introduce you to the characters who are often well known within their worlds but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Listen to all episodes at wnxp.org.

There aren’t many states like Tennessee with three distinct regions so unique each has its own star on the state flag. West, Middle, and East Tennessee are not just general directions to help explain where we’re from. They're lines drawn in state law representing our cultural heritage and political history. Because Mountain City is a long way from Memphis — in fact, it’s closer to Canada than the western corner of our state — we’re talking with historians about how we divided ourselves up this way.  Guests Jeff Sellers, Tennessee State Museum Director of Education & Community Engagement Warren Dockter, President and CEO of East Tennessee Historical Society Walter Battle, UT Institute of Agriculture Scott Williams, President of Discovery Park of America

When Dr. Britt Stone was growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, her Bahamian mother made her choke down a spoonful of cod liver oil each morning. The daily ritual was part of a “bush medicine” philosophy that incorporated an array of natural supplements and remedies. While training at Meharry Medical College and later specializing in neurology, Stone turned her attention away from herbal medicine. But during the COVID pandemic, she revived her interest in so-called “integrative medicine” to help her patients cope with symptoms. “We never know what kind of traditional wisdom we have forgotten and then feel like we’ve discovered and then actually we have just remembered again,” Stone tells This Is Nashville. In this interview, she talks about how her “mother was right,” how to separate snake oil from truly beneficial supplements, and how her colleagues at Vanderbilt are also seeing the benefits beyond modern medicine.

This time of year, we like to recommend some of the best podcasts of the year. So we've sprinkled a few recommendations throughout the show today while we let you enjoy our most downloaded episode of the year. It's about the history of the historically Black university that we never knew – Roger Williams University. Nothing remains of Roger Williams except a couple of historical plaques tucked away on Vanderbilt’s Peabody Campus. Founded in the wake of the Civil War alongside Fisk and Meharry, this historically Black institution once thrived before being destroyed in two suspicious fires in 1905. Today we uncover the forgotten history of Roger Williams, visit the nearby The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise & Public Policy, and meet artists and scholars working to both memorialize the university as well as honor their ancestral heritage through monuments and art.

The Grand Ole Opry is more than just the longest-running radio show in America.

As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates its 100th birthday this week, we hear from its longest-serving member. Whisperin’ Bill Anderson hasn’t just weathered a 65-year music career, he’s thrived through versatility. A six-time Songwriter of the Year winner, he’s a member of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His songs have earned Grammy nominations, Dove Awards, the ACM Poets Award, and BMI’s first Country Music Songwriting Icon honor. He’s written for himself and legends like Vince Gill and Brad Paisley. He made it to Hollywood and back. Last year he released his 73rd album. At the center of it all has been the Grand Ole Opry. He joins This Is Nashville to talk about his love and reverence for the institution and all that's going on in "Whisperworld."

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. The Roundabout is the news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are Maryam Abolfazli, Shaka Mitchell and Pat Nolan. Today we talk about a tightening 7th congressional district race, political pardons, school voucher expansion, plus a smile story or two and more. And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Maryam Abolfazli, former congressional candidate and founder of Rise & Shine TN Shaka Mitchell, Sr. Fellow for the American Federation for Children Pat Nolan, political analyst and retired journalist

Stream video on YouTube. Now that tariffs levied by the second Trump administration have taken effect, small businesses in Nashville are beginning to feel the pinch and praying for relief. Importers of coffee and tea and artisans making apparel and musical instruments join the show to explain how tariffs have challenged their small businesses. Professors from Vanderbilt and MTSU bring global context to the local impact of tariffs in 2025. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests  Eric Bond, Joe L. Roby chair & professor of economics at Vanderbilt Leah and Joel Larabell, High Garden Tea (Instagram: @highgardentea) Sean Stewart, Coffee Importer Michael Stricklin, Loyal Stricklin (Instagram: @loyalstricklin) Manuel Delgado, Delgado Guitars (Instagram: @delgadoguitars) Chaney Mosley, associate professor of agribusiness at MTSU Further listening: Nashvillager Podcast: A bad year for a major cash crop

Our question today: What is a "Chicago-style gyro," and why are there so many shops with that name in Nashville? Little did we know that trying to figure this out would take us way beyond Nashville and lead us to uncover the very creation of the gyro as we know it. WPLN reporter Justin Barney is taking you along as he crisscrosses the country, plunges into culinary history, hits the factory floor, and gets face-to-face with the man who elevated a niche menu item into a cultural staple. You can find more Curious Nashville stories at WPLN.org/Curious and submit a question to our team below. This episode was produced by Tony Gonzalez and Justin Barney. Special thanks to Blake Farmer, Tasha A.F. Lemley, Mack Linebaugh and Cynthia Abrams

It might look like anything Mike Curb touches turns to gold. But he says he’s never been great at anything – just passionate. After more than 60 years in the record business, Curb is still looking for the next big hit. He's also looking for a way to preserve the thing that brought him to Nashville and made his career so successful — Music Row. In this career-spanning interview, Curb talks music and business, politics and philanthropy.  Further Reading: 'Music Row is the new Sunset Strip' Mike Curb's Belmont Partnership Looks to Bolster Future Music Business At the opening of the Curb Gallery at the Rock 'n Soul Museum in Memphis Mike Curb Donates Funding For New Student Recording Facility At UCLA The 71st Mike Curb Gold Cup Race Curb challenges Tennessee's transgender bathroom law in court New York Times profiles Curb as Lt. Gov of California (1979)

From a young age, Colby Keegan said he hoped to "affect positive change." He was homeless when he died of an overdose at the age of 23. His mother, Lisa Wysocky, founded Colby's Army in his honor.  Our In My Place series has taken us through the steps of homelessness to housing and beyond. That’s from the first point of contact between a service provider and someone experiencing homelessness — through all the twists and turns to an apartment — and then sometimes doing it all over again more than once. In this episode, which is the season finale, we're spending the whole hour with Wysocky, looking through the eyes of family members of people who have experienced homelessness. Further listening: Get all episodes at the In My Place page or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you do your listening Nashville Scene: Best News Podcast: 'In My Place' In My Place is a special project of WPLN’s This Is Nashville, supported in part by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.

It’s now just a matter of time before federal benefits are restored that help nearly 700,000 Tennesseans put food on the table.  But the government shutdown exposed just how many people struggle to keep their families fed. So we’re putting hunger at the center of our Roundabout episode today. We’ll bring you the latest on SNAP and food distributions. We’re also taking your calls about your own experience as a recipient or a volunteer. That number is 615-760-2000. And if you’ve got a pop-up feeding program, please share. It’s SNAP and hunger in the roundabout.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Mary Mancini.  GUESTS Signe Anderson (via phone), Tennessee Justice Center Senior Director of Nutrition Advocacy Alexus Lawless, SNAP recipient Josh Rosales, Break-Thru Nashville Catherine Sweeney, WPLN Health Reporter Additional Reading:  WPLN'S SNAP Coverage 

On today's show, we honor those who’ve served their country by welcoming three combat veterans from Middle Tennessee, all from the decade after 9/11. A cook. An HR specialist. And an intelligence officer. It takes more than the infantry to go to war. Wisdom from our neighbors who answered the call of duty and were forever changed.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  GUESTS Jerome Norman, U.S. Army Veteran Keyanna Jones, U.S. Army Veteran Aaron Dorn, Marine Corps Veteran

Bill DeMain has been creating and evolving for decades. A prolific songwriter, music journalist, walking tour guide, and one half of the pop duo Swan Dive, he’s still not slowing down. In fact, during the pandemic, he added yet another career to his résumé: cartoonist. Today, Bill tells us how it all started, why he continues to try new things, and his thoughts on the untimely death of his friend and co-writer, Jill Sobule. Further reading and listening Listen to Bill DeMain on BBC Radio Scotland's Another Country with Ricky Ross Meet Bill's alter ego, prolific correspondent Sterling Huck Visit one of the publications Bill writes for, Mojo Magazine Learn more about Bill's walking tour, Walkin' Nashville Read Bill's article about his memories of Paul McCartney and Wings’ working vacation in Nashville in 1974

For more than three decades, Kurdish refugees have found a safe place to land in Nashville, but the newest arrivals are experiencing a more skeptical reception.

When a wave of Kurdish refugees came to Nashville, they quickly got to work.

WPLN reporter Rose Gilbert takes a journey through the mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan and into generations of one Kurdish family.

To really understand what one Kurdish family — and so many others — were fleeing from in Iraq, we need to go back to one terrible, pivotal day in 1988. And to do that, we need to go to Kurdistan.

WPLN is reviving one of the the station's most popular projects: Curious Nashville. The recipe is simple. Listeners ask questions and we find the answers. But the bar is high. Instead of answers that can be found through a quick Google search, we're taking queries that will take us somewhere unknown or unexpected. Tune in to hear News Director Tony Gonzalez share some of Curious Nashville's great hits, as well as previews of some of the mysteries that reporters are looking into now. And you can submit your question below: This episode was produced by Tony Gonzalez and Cynthia Abrams.

Every community needs a “keeper of the flame” – someone who can connect the present with the past. And in Middle Tennessee, we’re fortunate to have several of these sages who can remind us of our history. At WPLN, that’s the gift Nina Cardona shares with listeners each day on the NashVillager podcast – connecting the past with the present, while helping us break out of the news cycle and think about the news in a historical context. Today, we hear Nina's story and the why and how of what she does to connect us to Tennessee and beyond.

Welcome back to In My Place — a series about finding, and losing, home in a growing Nashville. This season, we’re getting to walk through the specific steps from homelessness to housing with people who have done it. In our last 8 episodes, we’ve talked about everything from connecting with services for the very first time to celebrating an apartment. But for many folks it doesn’t stop there — so neither did we. Most recently, we spent time trying to understand why having a place, even though it’s great, is really hard. So, in this episode, we’re talking with people about what it’s like to experience becoming unhoused again. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: Jamie Villegas, member of the Homelessness Planning Council, expert through experience Kennetha Patterson, national peer advocate, expert through experience Lizzie Goddard, principal and owner of Goddard Consulting Co., housing systems strategist Further listening: Nashville Scene: Best News Podcast: 'In My Place' Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to shows.

When Dr. Lisa Piercey left state government after guiding Tennessee through the pandemic, she decided to turn over an entirely new leaf. She was tired of working for someone else. So she got into the business of buying businesses. And even though she’s only a few years in, she also wrote a book about it. We talk about her journey to entrepreneurship, her hindsight on public service, and grappling with this new era in public health.   Further reading: In exit interview, Tennessee health chief Lisa Piercey defends how the state dealt with COVID (WPLN) Dr. Lisa Piercey on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (Signature Required) Why I Bought a Business Instead of Starting One (Entrepreneur)

As the federal government shutdown rolls into its fourth week, paychecks for federal employees have halted. At the local level, many are wondering how federal policies will impact their day-to-day lives. The Nashville job sector has remained stable for the past year, but as the manufacturing industry in Tennessee remains among the most vulnerable to tariffs, the future cost of production becomes less clear. Additionally, health insurance premiums for those who rely on Obamacare may cost up to twice as much in 2026 if Congress doesn't reach a deal. For our weekly Roundabout edition of This Is Nashville, we have invited a reporter, an economist, and a public policy advocate to speak on these issues. Call in with your question or comment at 615-760-2000 — or watch live on YouTube and pop your comments into chat.

Gospel and Christian music call this city home. But until now, there hasn’t been an obvious physical location.  With the opening of the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music this month, we’ll look at the history of a unique genre that focuses as much on the lyrics and meaning as the song itself. We’re joined by historians, executives and a Dove Award winning artist. Additionally, our guests will highlight the importance of race and how it shaped today's world of Contemporary Christian Music.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Jewly Hight.  Guests Jewly Hight, WPLN senior music writer Leah Payne, religious historian & author DOE, Dove award-winning artist Jackie Patillo, Gospel Music Association President Steve Gilreath, Executive Director of the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music Additional reading: New Musem of Christian and Gospel Music honors diversity of music with a message

It’s been nearly a year since Davidson County voters passed the Choose How You Move transit referendum, approving a half-cent (0.5%) sales tax increase to fund transit upgrades and improvements. The chief program officer, Sabrina Sussman, joins us to give an update and take questions from listeners. We end the episode with our Shared Calendar, giving you the microphone to plug local events coming up in the next week. Call 615-760-2000 to join on air or comment in the chat along with the live video stream. Guest Sabrina Sussman, chief program officer, Choose How You Move Further reading Free bus fares are coming to Nashville low-income residents (WPLN) City Pumps $104 Million of Choose How You Move Money Into Transit Projects (Nashville Banner) What one Nashville teen learned from riding every city bus route before graduation (WPLN) First phase of Nashville’s ‘Choose How You Move’ plan unveiled (WKRN) Events 4th annual William Edmondson Arts and Culture Fest "Everything Hurts" at Nashville Symphony Ann Roberts Lecture Series on Mid-Century Architecture Day of the Dead celebration in Springfield Urban League of Middle-Tennessee annual meeting Nashville Public Library's Neighborhood History & Culture Home Movie Project Columbia PRIDE TWRA Tennessee Biodiversity Summit VOGM: The Claus Cause (Santa Photoshoot for a Cause)

Charles “Wigg” Walker, legendary R&B and soul artist

It’s a Roundabout episode with guest host and familiar voice Nina Cardona. This panel spanning the political spectrum helps you think about the news — sometimes from a different lane. This week we welcome former speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives, Beth Harwell. Former congressional candidate Kiran Sreepada and TSU political science professor Ian Shapiro are also back. Together, we’ll mourn the loss of life in the Bucksnort explosion, dissect the building presence of federal agents in Memphis, and look at the congressional races getting active, even a year out.

On our show today, we’re talking about native spiders.  Why? Well, it’s spider season. You tend to see more this time of year because the males are looking for a mate. They’re also looking for a warm place to get in out of the cold and that may mean moving in with us. Spiders may make your skin crawl, but it’s useful to know what’s actually worth being scared of. Spoiler alert, there’s not too much to worry about — even with the much-maligned brown recluse. On today's show, we speak with a pet owner, an entomologist, and a local actor who landed the role of Charlotte in "Charlotte's Web" to get their takes.  Better yet, our phone lines are open. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us on "the web" by live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat.

When Vanderbilt polled Nashvillians in March about top priorities for city investment, there was near unanimity around one issue. Nearly 90% wanted investment in more affordable housing. But when the questioning hit closer to home, the support waned. According to this same poll, 56% of residents support allowing multifamily housing "everywhere in my city to revitalize neighborhoods and local economies." If Nashville is going to have more affordable housing, residents also have to live closer together. It's not just apartment buildings and not just in some parts of town. It’s townhomes. It’s a garage unit in the backyard. It’s density. And when that density is proposed next door, you get a lot of folks who may agree in principle but find themselves saying “not in my back yard.” What does it take to get more YIMBYs (yes in my back yard)?

When Stuart McWhorter gets introduced on stage, at some point he feels the need to cut off the emcee. From his resume, it starts to sound like he either can’t hold a job or he’s always looking for the next thing — a joke that he makes about his own varied career. This week, he takes on yet another a new role in Gov. Bill Lee’s administration — deputy governor. But he’s been Lee’s right hand man since he decided to run for office. Before government service, he was a second generation entrepreneur who credits working with his late father, Clayton McWhorter, for much of the success he has experienced.

The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Congressional District 7 candidate Rep. Jody Barrett, Owen School professor and Tennessee Lookout contributor Bruce Barry, and @WPLN's Marianna Bacallao join today to help us think through the biggest news – including the special election in the 7th congressional district. We’ll digest the primary results with the help of Barrett, who was the focus of much of the money spent in the race. We'll also look at how the state ended up banning more books than almost any other state — as well as Vanderbilt’s latest moment of decision. Plus, we're hearing from you. Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation! You can also check us out visually by joining our YouTube stream. Guests Marianna Bacallao, state legislative/power and equity reporter, WPLN Rep. Jody Barrett, congressional district 7 candidate; state house representative Bruce Barry, professor, Vanderbilt's Owen Graduate School of Management;  Tennessee Lookout contributor Further reading Trump asks 9 colleges to commit to his political agenda and get favorable access to federal money (WPLN) Vanderbilt campus groups push back against Trump administration higher ed ‘compact’ (Tennessee Lookout) Memphis state Rep. Justin Pearson to challenge U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen in 2026 Democratic primary (Tennessee Lookout) New Tennessee English Language Arts Standards Recommendation: More Diverse Texts: Educators cited the benefits of reading materials that reflect a variety of cultures and viewpoints (Nashville Banner)

Not long ago, everybody seemed to want to get in on Pride month festivities. Then the political winds shifted. Companies that were proudly flying the rainbow flag decided to fold up their colors this year, or at least drop their financial support — including Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nissan, Cracker Barrel, Dollar General and Jack Daniel’s. So Nashville Pride has been scrambling to fill the gap with a symbolic deadline of Saturday 10/11, which is National Coming Out Day. In this episode, we get an update from Pride organizers and explore the history of gay pride in our town. Stream the show live on YouTube. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Tina Tousignant, Nashville Pride President Jef Ellis, co-founder of Dare Newspaper (later renamed Query) Dwayne Jenkins, Nashville Black Pride Board President

Nothing remains of Roger Williams University except a couple of historical plaques tucked away on Vanderbilt’s Peabody Campus. Founded in the wake of the Civil War alongside Fisk and Meharry, this historically Black institution once thrived before being destroyed in two suspicious fires in 1905. Today we uncover the forgotten history of Roger Williams, visit the nearby The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise & Public Policy, and meet artists and scholars working to both memorialize the university as well as honor their ancestral heritage through monuments and art. Guests Lanecia Rouse, visual artist & Berg Global Artist-In-Residence Fellowship in the College of Arts and Science, Vanderbilt University Ciona Rouse, poet Dr. Kevin Murphy, Andrew W. Mellon Chair in the Humanities and Professor and Chair of History of Art and Architecture, Vanderbilt University Dr. Leah Lowe, Professor of Theatre and Director of The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise & Public Policy, Vanderbilt University

Americana often becomes a place for artists or music industry types who don’t fit neatly elsewhere. And for Tamara Saviano, it was a place for a writer and publicist who was shunned by country music. Saviano moved to Nashville and quickly found herself crossways with industry heavyweights. A fateful firing over politics led to a phone call from actor and singer/songwriter Kris Kristofferson, and the rest is a history that’s in her new memoir, "Poets and Dreamers."  Produced by Blake Farmer More on Tamara Saviano: NPR: Tamara Saviano on Guy Clark lost recordings WMOT: A warm account of the Americana movement Nashville Post (2003): Everything you ever wanted to know about the Charlie Daniels/Saviano dispute

The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are Mark Rogers, Republican Party advisor; Dahron Johnson, chaplain and co-chair of the Nashville committee of Tennessee Equality Project; And Meribah Knight, reporter and producer of special projects for WPLN. What stories are making the rounds in your circle? Call 615-760-2000 to join on air or pop a question into the chat during the broadcast on the YouTube video stream. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Dahron Johnson, chaplain and co-chair of the Nashville committee of Tennessee Equality Project Meribah Knight, reporter and producer of special projects for WPLN Mark Rogers, Republican Party advisor

There’s a poster in the This Is Nashville studio that says “Our City, Our Stories.” And today it could say “Nuestra ciudad, nuestra historias.” Eleven percent of Nashvillians identify as Hispanic or having Hispanic heritage and today we're spending the hour with some of our Spanish-speaking neighbors: a coffee shop owner who can be found some days passing out free sweet bread to drivers stuck in traffic, a community health worker who brings care to people who need it most and a business leader who helps Hispanic entrepreneurs plug into the city’s power circles. Esto es Nashville. You can also join us live on YouTube to get the visual show experience and share your thoughts. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Juan Pablo, owner, JOS Fifteen Coffee Shop Rosa Escobar, health worker, Siloam Health Yuri Cunza, Nashville Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President

In My Place is a series that educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our last episode, we celebrated getting those keys! In this episode, we’re talking about the difficulties of having a home. It’s easy for those of us who have never been homeless to celebrate someone getting housed, breathe a sigh of relief, and then stare in disbelief when things don’t go smoothly. Today, we sit down with those who have gone through the housing process to talk about barriers that remain — and unexpected issues that may arise after people move into permanent housing. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: Ashley Reed, disability advocate, expert through experience Kelly Palmer, expert through experience Nathan Scarlett, outreach specialist, People Loving Nashville Rachel Hester, executive director, Room In The Inn Anita Smith, housing advocate, expert through experience Further listening: WPLN: Anita Smith, ‘I don’t need to go any further.’ Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to shows.

Fred Bailey didn’t just defy the odds. He didn’t see his circumstances as a deck stacked against him. In fact, he couldn’t see at all, which was one of the challenges you’d expect to hold someone back. "You’re Black, blind, and poor," his father told him, adding that hard work was going to be the only way out.  And he lived it out.  In this profile interview, Bailey talks about his memoir, his career and his nonprofits that help at-risk youth in Gallatin. More on Fred Bailey:  There's No Cure — Episode #1 from WPLN's Versify podcast  "Nowhere Near the Bottom" — memoir published in 2020 Induction into the Tennessee Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout – the "Nashville Nice" edition "Nashville Nice" is a unique flavor of Southern hospitality and friendliness. And since we last took a look three years ago, a lot more than the skyline has changed. Today we wonder, as more transplants move in and Lower Broad leans into its "party city" reputation, are cracks starting to appear in our collective civility? Are we in danger of losing the very things that made Nashville Nice possible? And is "Nashville Nice" enough for you to stay? And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Stacey Irvin, photographer Demetria Kalodimos, executive producer of the Nashville Banner Rev. Davie Tucker, pastor, Beech Creek Missionary Baptist Church; executive director, Metro Human Relations Commission

Let’s discuss the dreaded G-word – geriatrics – and clear up common misconceptions about that medical specialty and why it’s important for healthy aging. For many, it conjures images of decline, disease, and – well – dying. But what if we take the view that geriatricians are experts in body and mind maintenance for late-model humans? That’s the focus of this episode of our monthly series, NEXT AGE, where we’re reframing aging. The goal of modern geriatrics is to help our health span match our lifespan as more of us are living longer. We hear from experts in the care and maintenance of our aging bodies and learn why more people are actively seeking geriatric care early in their latter years. There’s a growing effort to recruit and train more professionals in geriatrics and increase all of our appreciation and access to these specialists. Our show is made possible, in part, by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner. Guests: Jean Gauld-Jaeger, retiree & patient of geriatrician, https://artbyjaeger.com/ Katina Beard | CEO, Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center S.A.L.T. Deborah Lee, PhD, Director & Co-Founder, MTSU Positive Aging Consortium James Powers, M.D., geriatrician/researcher/professor, VUMC Division of Geriatric Medicine Stacy D. Smith, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, VUMC Division of Geriatric Medicine

Running a small business is tough — especially if you’re in a city like Nashville where commercial lease rates are increasing significantly. Today, we’re tallying the cost of doing business in Middle Tennessee. Joining us are small business owners, subject matter experts, and property developers to enlighten us on how small businesses are adapting to the changing economic landscape. You can also join us live on YouTube to get the visual show experience and share your thoughts. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Danny Greenberg, co-owner, Flour Your Dreams Bakery  Tania Salas, co-owner, Flour Your Dreams Bakery Luke Watson, co-founder, Third Coast Comedy Club and Silo Market Leon Luke, owner, TrapHouse Wingz Kelly Bonadies, property developer Jeff Cohu, Lipscomb University Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation Executive Director  

When people in Nashville have nowhere else to go, they find our guest this hour. We’re getting to know the story of Joy Flores, the vice president of ministries at the Nashville Rescue Mission. Her journey includes time working in foster care, years on Skid Row in Los Angeles, and losing her own brother to the perils that accompany homelessness. It’s a career that has shaped her whole-person philosophy of caring for anyone who is homeless, because usually they need a lot more than a place to lay their head.  This episdoe was produced by Josh Deepan.  GuestJoy Flores, Vice President of Ministry and Outreach, Nashville Rescue Mission

Freddie O’Connell is back for another round of “Ask the Mayor.” Today we have questions for him about a land swap deal for Dolly, massive gridlock at the airport, deploying the National Guard to cities around the country (is Nashville next?) and if public employees should lose their jobs for private speech. But there’s more to be asked and that's where you come in. Call in to ask Freddie your own question. Plus, the phone lines will stay open for you to shout out your upcoming community event. Joining us to talk about the screening of their documentaries this weekend are Karla Murtha (The Gas Station Attendant) and Dr. Eiman Jahangir (Eiman Jahangir: Liftoff). Call 615-760-2000 to ask Freddie or amplify your event — or pop your question into chat — we’re streaming live today at youtube.com/@wpln. Guests Freddie O’Connell, Mayor, Metro Nashville and Davidson County Dr. Eiman Jahangir, cardiologist, crew member on a Blue Origin suborbital spaceflight Dr. Karla Murtha, filmmaker

Maybe we didn’t know what we had until it left a theme park-size hole in Nashville’s heart. A documentary premiering at the Nashville Film Festival, called “A Circle Broken,” gives us a good excuse to reopen that wound and hear the story of Opryland like we’ve not heard before, a story about how perhaps Opryland saved the Grand Ole Opry itself. We’re talking to the characters who are keeping the memory alive and hearing your memories of Opryland USA. This episode originally aired on July 22, 2025. Guests: Brandon Vestal, filmmaker David Ewing, historian Bob Whitaker, former Opryland General Manager Michael-Demby Cain, Opryland performer who went to Broadway Jennifer Roberts, performer Lynn Wright, half of first couple married at Opryland Sean Hughes, "The Balloon Guy" Further reading: To submit footage for "A Circle Broken" Opryland VR Nashville Scene: Taking a Look Back at the Rushed 1997 Closure of Opryland  

Predatory lending practices are not new. Think salary buying and loan sharks of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. But the modern version was born in the 1990s right here in Tennessee. Sometimes called "payday loans," many who use the service are in a financial crisis and need quick cash — often leading to a trap of high interest debt. Today we speak with Tennessee Lookout reporter Adam Friedman, who along with ProPublica, uncovered the scale of this lending model, the hidden dangers of the latest version called the "Flex Loan," and the toll the practice has taken on Tennesseans.   Note: We reached out to Advance Financial. A representative declined to come on the show. Anyone with issues related to Advance Financial, Harpeth Financial or another flex loan lender should call 615-270-6861 to share their experience. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Adam Friedman, reporter, Tennessee Lookout Erin Akery, senior manager, Nashville Financial Empowerment Center at United Way Rep. Mike Sparks, Tennessee General Assembly, District 29, part of Rutherford County Mike Stewart, former state representative; attorney Further reading and listening: This lender said its loans would help Tennesseans. It has sued more than 110,000 of them. (Tennessee Lookout) Tennessee lawmakers and lenders said this law would protect borrowers, but it trapped them in debt (Tennessee Lookout) NashVillager Podcast: Predatory lending (WPLN) Usury Country: Welcome to the birthplace of payday lending (Harper's)

Abdikadir Mohamed spent fourteen years in a Kenyan refugee camp before being able to immigrate to Nashville, where he and his family made a life for themselves. From not knowing where his next meal would come from to advocating for others who are currently facing what he went through, he joins This Is Nashville to share what his upbringing taught him, what life in a refugee camp is like, and the challenges and blessings that came with the adjustment.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guest Abdikadir Mohamed, Safe Haven Senior Rapid Rehousing Case Manager

A Black folk revival is sweeping the country and challenging long-standing stereotypes about traditional American music.

We’ve given you a lot to think about this week as we've examined harm reduction, medication assisted treatment and substance use disorder recovery and loss. Today, it's your turn to talk. Our guests this week have talked about clean syringe exchange, using drugs to get off drugs and the shame and stigma surrounding substance use disorder. Our Roundabout panel is here to listen to your stories and answer your questions. What’s helped the people you know who face addiction? How did you find your way to sobriety? And what concerns you about the legal and not-so-legal methods used? Join us on air by calling 615-760-2000. Guests Megan Barry, Author, It’s What You Do Next; Advocate to reduce shame and stigma surrounding substance use disorder Brittany Miller, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist Dr. Josh Wienczkowski, Oversees patient care and telemedicine division for for Cedar Recovery Tennessee's offices  Listen From street corners to campsites, the work of Miriam Field, harm reductionist, This is Nashville, September 8, 2025 Sanctioned harm reduction, This is Nashville, September 9. 2025 The opioid that’s saving lives in Nashville, This is Nashville, September 10. 2025

While doctors are prescribing fewer and fewer opioids, there’s one that’s not going away – buprenorphine, often known by its brand name of Suboxone. Compared to other narcotics, it's harder to abuse. It’s far less dangerous than the synthetic street drugs. And it reduces the risk of overdosing. But it’s still an opioid that is very hard to get off of. The number of Tennesseans prescribed these opioids as addiction treatment jumped by 40% in just five years. As we look this week at all sides of a philosophy known as “harm reduction,” today we focus on access to the opioids meant to get us out of the opioid crisis. Guests Leslie Cole, MD, addiction physician, Springfield, Tenn. Josh Draper, program manager, Sumner Prevention Coalition Tracy Frame, PharmD, professor of pharmacy practice and director of the Flourish Mobile Clinic, Belmont University Chap Cuthbert, community response peer support, Mental Health Cooperative

On today's episode of "This Is Nashville," we dive into the work of sanctioned harm reduction. Needle exchanges, distributing drug overdose reversal medication and fentanyl test strips — these tactics to limit the damage of the opioid crisis were once broadly illegal in Tennessee, and now they’re being used by certain groups to, essentially, help people use drugs more safely without necessarily trying to get them to stop. It’s all about keeping someone alive, even if it does little to treat the drug addiction that is leading to so many deaths. We’re exploring ways through the opioid crisis this week by focusing on a philosophy known as “harm reduction.” Monday was all about underground tactics to avoid regulation. Today we’re going above ground with physicians, social workers, and locals with lived experience to understand what’s allowed under Tennessee law. And we’ll hear that even among addiction experts, there are still questions about what’s the best path forward. You can also see us live at noon streaming on YouTube. Today's episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests Lyle Cooper, Meharry Medical College Associate Professor, Director of Meharry Harm Reduction Center  Peter Hossler, Rhodes College Associate Professor of Urban Studies Mary Owens, retired HIV/AIDS advocate Dr. Reid Finlayson, Vanderbilt University Medical Center Professor of Clinical Psychiatry

When it comes to drug addiction, trying to help someone quit can feel like a lost cause. But there are still ways to keep people as healthy as possible. They’re just a little bit controversial. It’s a philosophy known as "harm reduction." And some of the work isn’t just controversial – it can be illegal in Tennessee. A few harm reductionists are willing to take legal risks because they see the work saving lives. Today launches a week of This Is Nashville episodes about finding our way in the ongoing opioid crisis. And we start with the complicated tale of an underground harm reductionist and her work trying to overcome the stigma of drug use in an effort to keep people alive. She is committed to the idea that saving the lives of people in active drug addiction is more important than trying to get them to stop using. Through her story, we also learn that stigma can do as much damage as drug use itself. Related: • WPLN: A Betor Way, Memphis: Peers find a better way to save lives • Bury This Heirloom, Ziona Riley • WPLN: To combat rising overdoses, a prevention specialist must first overcome the stigma of addiction

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are attorney John Spragens, former reporter and political operative who also previously handled communications for Congressman Jim Cooper; Toby Compton, who worked for Nashville Mayor Karl Dean and also in the administrations of governors Bill Haslam and Bill Lee; And Sarah Grace Taylor, reporter with the Nashville Banner.  And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week! What story is making the rounds in your circle? Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: John Spragens, attorney, former reporter, political operative and communications director for Congressman Jim Cooper Toby Compton, formerly in the administration of Nashville Mayor Karl Dean and governors Bill Haslam and Bill Lee Sarah Grace Taylor, reporter with the Nashville Banner

Chicken and Waffles, shrimp and grits, powdered sugar on top of fresh French toast—not to mention bottomless mimosas. For those not addicted to social media, that spells brunch. According to listwithclever.com, New Orleans, Indianapolis and San Francisco are ranked among the top cities in the country for that late-morning, breakfast/lunch hybrid. Although Nashville is known for music, food, and satiating that grumbling stomach after church, it seemingly lags behind other brunch-centric cities. On today’s show, we take a look at the brunch scene in Nashville. We’ll speak with chefs and restaurant owners, as well as experts in the field of catering and fashion to better understand the culture and history of brunch and its local impact. This episode was produced by Anthony White and Josh Deepan. Guests John Smith, SOUL Restaurant Owner Jerod Wilcher, ButterFLY Garden Restaurant Owner Jovia King, Event Planner, Thirty Plus Events  Milton White, Stylist, The Fashion Office 

We have an episode dedicated to a tiny fraction of the population that fascinates us all: the identical twins in our midst. Life is just different for those who share all of their genetics — and we’re looking to understand them more. We’ll talk to Middle Tennessee twins who work together keeping our community safe, teenage twins growing up and one twin who you hear every day on our show. We’ll also meet the parent and a spouse of identical twins to learn about how they love the twins closest to them. It’s going to be a double fun hour. Join us! This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Katherine Ruppelt. Guests: Sergeant Kyle Neal, identical twin Sergeant Matt Neal, identical twin Kenzie, identical twin Kyndall, identical twin Courtney Oertel, wife of an identical twin Jada Mathews, mother of identical twins

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are former congressional candidate Kiran Sreepada, Vanderbilt young Republican Noah Jenkins and the Tennessean’s Austin Hornbostel. We’re stepping back from the news of the week and looking for meaning in it all. Gov. Lee resisting guard troops policing Memphis, the latest on the airport tunnel, and the Cracker Barrel kerfuffle. Plus headlines that flew under the radar. And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week! hat story is making the rounds in your circle? Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Kiran Sreepada, former congressional candidate & former Director Programs at the States Project. Noah Jenkins, Vanderbilt senior and President Emeritus, Vanderbilt Young Republicans Austin Hornbostel, Tennessean Metro Reporter

There’s a caregiving crisis in America, and taking care of our parents is just one part of the struggle. It’s caring for adults with a disability. It’s grandparents raising kids again, or parents as primary caregivers for a medically complex child. Then there are friends caring for friends like they’re family. Today is dedicated to highlighting resources to help caregivers of all kinds – both paid and unpaid. And, we're taking your calls. Call 615-760-2000 to ask the experts – or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! Plus, we hear about actor Bradley Cooper’s new PBS documentary about caregiving in America, which probably hits home because most of us will spend part of our life playing the role he played for his father. As first lady Rosalynn Carter said, "There are only four kinds of people in the world – those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner and Mary Mancini. Guests Chris Durrance, director and senior producer of PBS documentary, Caregiving LaTonya Turner, editor and afternoon host, WPLN News Sandy Ewing, caregiver, medically complex child Aimee Luchterhand, caregiver, child with special needs Tina Lemon, caregiver, grandparent raising grandchildren Dr. Feylyn Lewis, Asst. Dean Student Affairs, VU School of Nursing; National Alliance for Caregiving researcher Dr. Megan Schwalm, President & CEO, Tennessee Caregiver Coalition

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our last episode, we heard about how last minute hurdles can stand in the way of an apartment. Today? We’re going home. We’re gonna hear what it’s like to finally open that door, what all it takes to get set up, and how that’s different from folks like you and me…who likely have a few more resources available to us. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. And we’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: • Sarah Champion, Housing Stability Guide for The Contributor & co-director for The Beat • Andrew Terry IV, Program Operations Team Lead with The Contributor • Billy Warner, case navigator, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with Community Care Fellowship • Jonquil Stewart, expert through experience • Lisa Abell, vendor with The Contributor

Earlier this year, Demetrius Short spoke at Fisk University's Honors Convocation and got some apologies off his chest. He disclosed to his mentors and professors he was sneaking into their offices to sleep on their couches. He was grabbing a tray of chicken legs and hoping the cafeteria workers would look the other way. He was attending class for years without officially being enrolled as a student. Through seven years scraping by in school, Short always kept an internship. With no car, he walked both ways from the Fisk campus to an office in West End, wearing a suit and alligator skin shoes. After graduating, Short used that experience to start a fundraiser 5k where runners are asked to wear suits and sneakers. The Steps of Success 5k is now in its 15th year. When a man can run a 5k in a full business suit, he’s got a story worth tuning in for. Join us!

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are former congressional candidate and founder of Rise & Shine TN Maryam Abolfazli, political advisor Mark Rogers and Tennessean opinion reporter Andrea Williams. Today we talk about Tennessee teachers, the guard deployed to D.C., defending IVF and auditing Nashville’s eye-popping property appraisals. That and more. And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week! Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Maryam Abolfazli, former congressional candidate and founder of Rise & Shine TN Mark Rogers, Republican political advisor Andrea Williams, Tennessean opinion reporter Further reading: A brief history of how both parties lost their minds on immigration (The Hill) Survey shows Tennessee teachers’ feelings about cell phones, disciplinary measures and school culture (WPLN) MNPS leaders fight against other adults, not for children (Tennessean) Metro Moves Forward With Audit of Assessor’s Office Despite Wilhoite’s Opposition (Nashville Banner) Coalition urges Nashville vote on fairgrounds future over NASCAR plan (Axios)

It’s back-to-school time, and that includes older adults! An increasing number of people 50 and older are actively learning new things (55% of Americans age 45 and older, according to AARP surveys). These lifelong learners want to stay mentally sharp, intellectually stimulated or even start another career. Some take a class or two based on their interests; some develop (or refine) a talent or skill; and some pursue a high school or college degree. Many institutions and organizations are scrambling to meet this demand among older adults for learning opportunities that are accessible, affordable and – most of all – age-friendly.  In this episode of our monthly series NEXT AGE, we’ll hear from some lifelong learners and why they strove to continue pursuing knowledge as they age. We’ll also learn what’s being offered by local universities, non-profits and community groups and some of the efforts to remove barriers that deter some older adults who want to continue learning. This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner and Josh Deepan.  Guests:  Jan Goddard, Vanderbilt University's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute student Sheila Brown Thompson, graduate of Metro Action Commission Adult Education Program Dennis Piper, learner at Lipscomb's Lifelong Learning Program Dr. Brandon Grubbs, co-founder, MTSU's Positive Aging Consortium Tara Hamilton, Vanderbilt University's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Program Director Tom Kamber, executive director of Older Adults Technology Service (OATS) & AARP's Senior Planet

This year, Tennessee became the first state in the South to pass legislation specifically protecting in vitro fertilization — and the debate between Republicans made it clear that IVF does need some protection. The fight to outlaw abortion in states like Tennessee has also crept into the clinics that help people conceive children. This hour, we’ll talk to local doctors who specialize in fertility and hear from several families who’ve been on the long, challenging and expensive road to creating a family with the help of IVF. The process and the politics. Join us! You can also see us streaming on YouTube! Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ruppelt. GUESTS Dr. Abby Eblen MD, Double Board Certified OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist with Nashville Fertility Center; co-host Fertility Docs Uncensored Calea Davis, parent of three children through IVF Laura Lee and Stephanie Paha, parents of child through IVF Dr. Kendra Hayslett, Board Certified OB/GYN with Centennial Women's Hospital 

If you’re really looking for the hardest working man in showbusiness, he might not be on camera. It might have been our guest this hour – Tom Morales. He made his name catering the biggest movies in Hollywood – thousands across the globe. But he’s also a guy who sees himself as a defender of Nashville. His hometown. He’s built iconic spaces here like the Acme Feed & Seed. He helped turn Loveless Cafe into the tourist draw it’s become. He’s fought to protect the city’s soul. And he’s not so sure who is winning that fight.   This episode was produced by Tasha AF Lemley.

It’s Thursday and time for another episode of The Roundabout. The Roundabout is your news of the week, analyzed by our panelists from the points of view that span left, right and center. Joining us today are former Metro council member Fabian Bedne, former Metro school board chair and candidate for mayor, David Fox, and Tennessee State University political scientist Dr. Ian Shapiro. We're hitting the brakes on electric vehicle production in Tennessee, talking about AI surveillance of Tennessee students, leaning into the the latest on the Boring Company’s airport tunnel plans and flooding for our neighbors in Chattanooga. That and more. And The Roundabout also welcomes your voice on the big stories of the week! Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests: Fabian Bedne, former Metro councilmember David Fox, former Metro school board chair and candidate for mayor Dr. Ian Shapiro, Political Scientist, TSU  

Freddie O’Connell is back for another round of “Ask the Mayor.” There are questions about a win for Metro's transit plan in the state's high court, airport tunnels, ICE recruitment on city property and the prospect of using the National Guard for policing. But there’s more to be asked. What does the mayor need to know about your part of Nashville? Where is Metro Government needed? Where is Metro getting in the way? Finish this sentence: I wish the city would just…Then call us at 615-760-2000. Plus, we're opening up the phone lines to hear about your upcoming community event, like the Shades of Black Theatre Festival, celebrating twenty years next month. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini Guests Freddie O'Connell, Mayor, Metro Nashville and Davidson County Shawn Whitsell, playwright, actor, producer, director, and Co-Founder of the Shades of Black Theatre Festival Further reading and listeningAll previous episodes of Ask the Mayor can be found here.

We’re facing the four-letter word no parent wants to hear — lice. Updated guidance from federal health authorities and the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents and schools don't need to panic. In fact, schools are now discouraged from sending kids home just because they have active lice. Tennessee has embraced this thinking with a new manual for schools. But it’s been tough to put into practice. Williamson County Schools put a pause on updating its policy last Fall when questions started flying about the risk of leaving students with lice in the classroom. In this episode, we talk about balancing treatment and stigma, and go inside a recent infestation in Bellevue. Watch the video stream on YouTube! This episode was produced by Blake Farmer. Guests: Tonya Bryson, owner/co-executive director of the Creative Youth Enrichment Center Santiago Galera, owner of Lice Is Simple Joseph Gigante, MD, professor of general pediatrics at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital Cathryn Smith, RN, Metro Public Health Department program manager for school health and president-elect of the Tennessee Association of School Nurses

Local, award-winning author Kevin Wilson has deep Tennessee roots: he grew up in Franklin County, attended Vanderbilt, and today, teaches at Sewanee: The University of the South. Earlier this year, he released his latest novel, Run for the Hills. Like much of his work, the story considers the, (sometimes unexpected) ways “family” can come to be. He sat down with "This Is Nashville" to read an excerpt of his new release, talk about his upbringing in Tennessee and share his thoughts about why fiction writing is important in today's world (and how, in his mind, it shares some similarities with professional wrestling). This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams.  Relevant reading: Wilson is the author of seven books: Tunneling to the Center of the Earth, The Family Fang, Perfect Little World, Baby, You're Gonna Be Mine, Nothing to See Here, Now Is Not the Time to Panic and Run for the Hills. If you're more of a movie-goer than a reader, Wilson's first novel, The Family Fang, was adapted into a feature film (produced and starred in by another Middle Tennessee dweller, Nicole Kidman).

It’s the weekly Roundabout. From the uniquely Nashville to the national conversation, our guests today – left, right and center – will help us chew on the big stories of the week. And our Roundabout episodes give you a chance to weigh in. This week, we’ll face an execution, examine Elon Musk’s airport tunnel, and take an honest look at ourselves with Tennessee’s new ranking as one of the worst states to live in. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to weigh in — or join us live streaming on YouTube at noon and pop your question into chat! Guests: Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout Garrison Hayes, Mother Jones Cameron Smith, Tennessean Further reading: Nashville mayor’s office queries Boring Company about tunnel plan: O’Connell’s questions focus on emergency response [TN Lookout] Tennessee school cell phone bans won't work without parents' help [Cameron Smith, Tennessean] The worst place to live in the U.S.? Tennessee ranks dead last, below Alabama, Arkansas. Here's why. [Tennessean] The Knock-Down, Drag-’Em-Out Texas Redistricting Showdown Heats Up [Garrison Hayes, Mother Jones] Three charts showing the impact of the ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ on Tennessee [Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout]

In 2021, the Tennessee State Government introduced new tax incentives to encourage film productions to make their next project in the Volunteer State. On today’s show, we sit down with artists, producers, and members of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission to learn why film-related economic output has grown by nearly fifty percent and whether or not Nashville has the potential to become a major film hub in the United States.   This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests: Bob Raines, Tennessee Entertainment Commission Director Gisela Moore, Tennessee Entertainment Commission Project Manager Lauren Thelen, Nashville Film Festival Programming Director Steve Taylor, Film Producer, "Sketch" Carrie Romero, Executive Producer, "The Heart Brake" Gus Romero, Executive Producer, "The Heart Brake" Abby Gollehon, Academy of Makeup Arts Student Izzy Christensen, Academy of Makeup Arts Student Lydia Edwards, Academy of Makeup Arts Student  

On the eve of World Elephant Day, we celebrate with one of Tennessee’s best kept secrets — The Elephant Sanctuary. Nestled in the woods and knolls of Hohenwald, Tenn., about 80 miles southwest of Nashville is a 3,000-acre refuge for retired elephants where they can live out their days out of the spotlight. These magnificent animals spend their remaining years in a natural habitat developed specifically for their needs. In this episode, we get a rare report from within the complex, which is off limits to the public. Members of the Elephant Sanctuary team also join us in the studio to discuss their mission, philosophy of care, and elephant conservation. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Janice Zeitlin, President & CEO, The Elephant Sanctuary Kristy Eaker, Senior Manager of Elephant Care, The Elephant Sanctuary Laura Roddy, Education Manager, The Elephant Sanctuary

Garrison Keillor is still performing, even as he turns 83 this week. He sat down with This Is Nashville in the greenroom at City Winery before his performance in June because this city was central to his creation of "A Prairie Home Companion," which launched 50 years ago. For a long time, it was one of the biggest things in public radio. He now calls leaving the show a mistake. He’ll explain. And if you’re thinking, “didn’t he have a #MeToo moment?” Yes, we get some rather candid answers plus some wisdom only an octogenarian could offer.  This episode was produced by Blake Farmer. Relevant reading: The New Yorker (1974): Onward and Upward with the Arts at the Opry USA Today (2016): Garrison Keillor leaves his 'Prairie Home' after 42 years MPR News (2018): For some who lived in it, Keillor's world wasn't funny

It’s one of the toughest balancing acts of our time – kids and their screens. With most young teens having their own cellphones, screen usage is an unavoidable issue for schools. A new Tennessee law has led school districts to revisit their policies and in some cases strengthen their screen restrictions. We’ll hear what’s changing, what experts recommend and go deep at a school that banned phones altogether.  Plus it’s your turn to talk. Join on air by calling 615-760-2000. Or watch live and join the conversation by commenting on the YouTube live stream. Guests: Camellia Burris, WPLN education reporter Sean Brown, assistant principal at Independence Academy LaTika Alexander, school counselor at Independence Academy Aliyya Swaby, children and families reporter at ProPublica Shani Glapion, parent of student at Antioch High School Further reading Tennessee schools are updating classroom cellphone policies as required by new law (WPLN)

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to live behind bars, any episode of “Ear Hustle” will give you a pretty good idea. It’s basically “This American Life” but for the 2 million Americans who are incarcerated – primarily produced by people who are in prison. “Ear Hustle” hosts and co-founders Nigel Poor and Earlonne Woods join us to talk about what they’ve learned in 15 seasons of podcasting from a prison and highlighting the live show that is coming to Nashville next week. Plus, Plus, we end the hour with the Choosing Justice Initiative (CJI), an org seeking justice in Nashville’s criminal legal system Guests: Nigel Poor, host and co-founder, Ear Hustle Earlonne Woods, host and co-founder, Ear Hustle Erica Duggan, Director of Education and Holistic Advocacy, Choosing Justice Initiative Musa, Court watcher, Choosing Justice Initiative

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our last episode, we learned what happens when the paperwork finally comes through and puzzle pieces start building a hopeful picture. Well, we're taking a couple steps back. Today, our table is staying packed for a Q&A with folks who want to help us remember even when things seem to be going well a lot of last-minute hurdles can stand in the way of an apartment. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. And we’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: Lisa Abell, vendor with The Contributor Darrin Bradbury, Founder, The Beat Will Connelly, Executive Director, The Contributor Jane Dimnwaobi, Equal Justice Works Fellow, Tennessee Justice Center Joy Flores, VP of Ministries, Nashville Rescue Mission Olivia Messina, TN Program Lead, Hope for Justice Quatrece McKinney, VP of Programs, Monroe Harding Further listening: Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page on the WPLN website or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify and more.

Tia Sillers has written her fair share of hit songs — most notably, “I Hope You Dance,” performed by Lee Ann Womack. From her beginnings as a songwriter to performing with her husband, she joins us to reflect on her career, her approach to creativity and her relationship with Nashville. We also learn about her personal life and how her husband’s death further strengthened her musical expression.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. 

t’s not just a one-year budget crisis. Federal support for public media may be a thing of the past. And it’s hardly just WPLN at risk. Leaders of public media outlets in Middle Tennessee will be in the studio talking about the immediate impacts and uncertainty that lies ahead. Plus, it’s your turn to talk! We’re taking your calls, whether it’s curiosity or a particular critique, the lines will be open. Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. You can also catch us streaming on YouTube and send your questions through chat! Guests Val Hoeppner, Executive Director, WMOT Mack Linebaugh, Vice President of Audience & Content, Nashville Public Radio Becky Magura, President & CEO, Nashville PBS/WNPT Ken Paulson, Dean Emeritus and director, Free Speech Center at the College of Media and Entertainment, MTSU Further reading and listening Weathering the rescission storm (Nashvillager) How Donald Trump is using legal action against the media (1A) How bipartisan support for public media unraveled in the Trump era (NPR) Community radio stations are collateral damage as Congress cuts NPR funding (NPR) In the West Virginia mountains, a radio station is caught in the funding cut crossfire (NPR) How public broadcasting funding cuts would impact one rural Indiana station (NPR)

As rent in Nashville remains close to its all-time high, some affected tenants rush to court to contest their eviction notices. They may have medical issues, significant personal challenges or legal hurdles, but the same question hangs over each of them: where are they going to go once their lease is up? The Eviction Right to Counsel program is a group of local advocates who have collaborated to provide legal services for tenants in need. In this episode, we'll hear from organizations, those impacted by the rising cost of rent in Nashville, and attorneys who represent landlords.  We're also streaming on YouTube! This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. GUESTS:  Elizabeth Leiserson, attorney for Legal Aid Society  Anne Boatner, attorney for Nashville Hispanic Bar Association John Ellis, real estate attorney Remziya Suleyman, director of programs at American Muslim Advisory Council Shannon Wagner, Nashville Conflict Resolution Center  Lisa Wooley, Rooftop Nashville FURTHER LISTENING:  TIN: How mediation solves disputes, including between landlords and renters TIN: Sara Figal, lifetime mediator

Opryland has been closed for nearly 30 years, and as the producer of a new documentary puts it, some people are still “butt hurt” about it. Maybe we didn’t know what we had until it left a theme park-size hole in Nashville’s heart. A documentary premiering at the Nashville Film Festival, called “A Circle Broken,” gives us a good excuse to reopen that wound and hear the story of Opryland like we’ve not heard before, a story about how perhaps Opryland saved the Grand Ole Opry itself. We’re talking to the characters who are keeping the memory alive and hearing your memories of Opryland USA. Join us on air by calling 615-760-2000. Further reading: "A Circle Broken", premiering at the Nashville Film Festival Opryland VR Nashville Scene: Taking a Look Back at the Rushed 1997 Closure of Opryland Guests: Brandon Vestal David Ewing Bob Whitaker Michael-Demby Cain Jennifer Roberts Lynn Wright Sean Hughes

Pastor Glenda Gleaves Sutton arrived in Nashville with her two sons in tow. She had left a stressful but steady life as an air traffic controller and was on a mission to repair her own family. That effort didn’t pan out as quickly as hoped, and left her temporarily homeless. She has since dedicated her life to repairing the families of anyone within the sound of her voice. She’s dished out diapers and confronted drug dealers — always stepping out in faith and always in support of others. Her story is all about the power of encouragement and the effectiveness of showing people the way out rather than just telling them. Further reading: • What it’s like when an entire Nashville apartment community must move

It’s that time again! Time for you to talk with Mayor Freddie O’Connell. Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls! Plus, Last month, an appeals court upheld a state law reducing the Nashville Metro Council from forty members to twenty. Attorney Ben Gastel joins us to discuss the impact of reduced council, the potential Supreme Court case and other lingering questions. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. This episode was produced by Cynthia Abrams and Mary Mancini Guests Freddie O’Connell, Mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Ben Gastel, attorney, Herzfeld, Suetholz, Gastel, Leniski and Wall  

When you go to a live show these days, you expect to see a spectacle — an artistic production that will blow you away. Behind the scenes, there’s one person responsible for bringing this production to life — the production manager. Today we join with WNXP's Music Citizens podcast to go behind the scenes with Nashville-based production manager, Tori Butash. As a “lady soundguy,” Tori worked her way up doing sound for Rob Thomas, Imagine Dragons and other bands including Sylvan Esso. It was Sylvan Esso who realized Tori was highly organized, a good communicator and, most importantly, a good hang — the perfect ingredients for a production manager. This episode was produced by Justin Barney and Mary Mancini. Guests Tori Butash, Production Manager, (Wilco, Sylvan Esso) Michael Pollard, Production Direction, WNXP Jason Moon Wilkins, Program Director, WNXP Music Citizens is a new podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio about the people who make music work. Each episode will explore what it takes to do the jobs that keep the music business moving and introduce you to the characters who are often well known within their worlds but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Listen to all episodes at wnxp.org.

There is no more tender time than the months, weeks and days before a loved one's passing. More likely than not, hospice care is going to be involved. Still, many people don’t fully understand what hospice looks like. So today we’re breaking down what you need to know so you’ll be a little more prepared when it matters.  We'll hear from two Tennesseans who relied on hospice care, both at home and at a care facility, during each of their mother's final days. We'll talk with representatives from hospice agencies in Middle Tennessee and an end-of-life doula about how to prepare for end-of-life care and how to make the most of it. And we'll discuss the grief services hospice providers offer during the months following a loved one's passing. In our monthly series NEXT AGE, we’re having conversations about growing older — and efforts to reframe aging in a way that helps all of us. Our show is made possible, in part, by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. This episode was produced by Katherine Ruppelt. GUESTS: Tiffany Johnson, Caregiver for mom who passed on hospice Chuck Cardona, Caregiver for mom who passed on hospice Dr. Martha Presley Tran, Alive, Chief Medical Officer,  Meredith Portwood, Heartn’ Soul Hospice, Community Education Representative Bre Clark,  End-of-life doula, hospice volunteer Ali Drescher, Alive, Sr. Director of Mission Based Services Further Listening:The Cost Of Dying: Modern Death Hits Home For A Health Care Reporter

Candice Lee is a Vanderbilt Commodore through and through. In the late 90’s and early aughts, she played for the women’s basketball team. She endured injuries but never quit. After her playing days were over she moved to the administration side of sports. Also earning a PhD from the university.  Today, we learn what it’s like to get inside the mind of an athletic director for a school in the most powerful athletic conference in the country.

The school voucher debate has been raging in Tennessee for almost two decades... but it was just this year the Tennessee State Legislature successfully passed a law creating a statewide program. The Education Freedom Scholarship Act will provide 20,000 eligible students with about $7,300 per year in public school funds to use for private school tuition. So far, nearly 40,000 families have applied for the program. Today we ask: now that the school voucher horse is out of the barn...what’s next? How does the program actually work? What guardrails are in place to ensure the program complies with the law? What's worked in other states — and is it possible to improve the program? These are today's questions...AND it's also your turn to talk. Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation — or join us live streaming on YouTube and pop a question into the chat. Guests Dr. Felipe Barrera-Osorio, Associate professor of public policy, education, and economics, Peabody College Camellia Burris, Education Reporter, WPLN News Chelsea Crawford, Executive Director, TennesseeCAN Logan Key, parent Further reading and listening Tennessee legislature puts hundreds of millions toward private-school vouchers House, Senate narrowly pass governor’s initiative (Tennessee Lookout) Students across Tennessee can now apply for the expanded school voucher program (WPLN) Tennessee governor defends voucher application process; Gov. Bill Lee says enrollment history not required or needed (Tennessee Lookout)

In 1960s Southern California, a movement called "Kustom Kulture" emerged. Its mission: restore and refurbish cars. Since then, thousands across America have had their own vehicles customized. On today's show, we speak with local builders, musicians, and enthusiasts about their Kustom Kulture, how it helps people express themselves creatively, and the outlook of the community today. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  GUESTS:  Tim & Carrie Strange — Strange Motion Murpho & Kollette Marie — NashSpeed Donald Walker — Local hot rod enthusiast Jane Rose — Rockabilly singer, Jane Rose and the Deadends

Today we’re talking with identical twins who live here in Middle Tennessee - including two who work at the same local police department- to learn about how their unique connection has shaped their lives. We’ll also speak with the parent and a spouse of identical twins to learn about how they love the twins closest to them. It’s going to be a double fun hour. Join us! This episode was produced by Liv Lombardi and Katherine Ruppelt. Guests: Sergeant Kyle Neal, identical twin Sergeant Matt Neal, identical twin Kenzie, identical twin Kyndall, identical twin Courtney Oertel, wife of an identical twin Jada Mathews, mother of identical twins Further Reading: Music City Multiples| Organization that provides community and support for parents of multiples WKRN | Seeing double: Meet Nolensville’s identical twins fighting crime together

For many people, getting involved in your community is something they would like to do — but don’t have much time to do. For Tequila Johnson, though, community is a calling. Today we sit down with an entrepreneur, mom, and the co-founder of The Equity Alliance to talk about her life and how her philosophy on humanity is evolving.  This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona and Liv Lombardi

For over three decades Kurdish refugees have found a safe place to land in America. The latest wave of Kurds is arriving from Turkey – fleeing political repression and nationalist hate groups. But today, they’re coming to a very different America. It’s an America in turmoil. A place where immigrants are increasingly seen as enemies within, to be rooted out and sent back to where they came from. The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance. But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they’ll go to make it real. Series Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio’s Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

When a wave of Kurdish refugees came to Nashville, they quickly got to work. They opened businesses and raised their kids. As those kids grew up, they had to figure out how to navigate the world of a first-generation Kurdish-American teenager. And in that world, something new was forming — something that threatened to tarnish the sterling reputation their parents worked hard to build. The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance. But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they’ll go to make it real. Guest: Meribah Knight, editor and co-producer of the podcast Series Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio’s Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

Revealing all this family lost to war and displacement. But also, what they are determined to reclaim and rebuild. The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance. But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they’ll go to make it real. Guest:Dilman Yasin, cultural advisor of the podcast Series Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio’s Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

We dive headlong into one family’s migration odyssey from Iraqi Kurdistan to Nashville. To really understand what this family — and so many others — were fleeing from, we need to go back to one terrible, pivotal day in 1988. And to do that, we need to go to Kurdistan. The Country in our Hearts is the story of how Nashville became home to the largest Kurdish diaspora in America is an epic one. A tale of bloody genocide, of freedom fighters, of stunning perseverance. But the story of the Kurdish people, no matter where they are, is a story about a country that only exists in the hearts of its people. And the lengths they’ll go to make it real. Guest Rose Gilbert, host and reporter of the podcast Series Credits: Reported and produced by Rose Gilbert Edited and co-produced by Meribah Knight Additional editing by Tony Gonzalez, LaTonya Turner, and Rachel Iacovone, with help from Marianna Bacallao, Char Daston and Justin Barney Mack Linebaugh is Nashville Public Radio’s Vice President of Audience – and supported this project in many ways Our community and cultural advisors on this project were Dr. David Romano and Dilman Yasin Sound Design was done by Martin Cruz Fact checking by Daniel Potter And Original logo artwork is by Nuveen Barwari Traditional music by Arkan Doski With additional music from Blue Dot Sessions Special thanks to Paul McAdoo, Jennifer Nelson and to the village of Chalke, and the people there who showed Rose so much hospitality.

Science and religion are in a constant state of friction. But 100 years ago, that friction flared into a firestorm in Tennessee. In 1925, John Scopes, a 24-year-old high school science teacher in Dayton, decided to teach human evolution to his students even though the state had just outlawed it. He was put on trial, and Dayton was the center of international attention. Today, the impacts of what became known as the “Monkey Trial” are still rippling 100 years later. Plus, were you taught evolution in high school? Do you believe in creationism or evolution? Or both? The phone lines are open to take your calls. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Wesley Roberts, retired Metro Nashville Public School teacher, native Nashvillian. Dr. Antonis Rokas, Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair of Biological Science and the Founding Director of the Evolutionary Studies Initiative at Vanderbilt University. Sophie Badgett, former biology student at Hume Fogg Links Scopes 100, Scopes Centennial Celebration, Dayton, TN Scopes “Monkey” Trial Centennial Symposium, Vanderbilt University

Do you want to live to 100 or longer?  It’s possible and could be commonplace within the next couple of decades. The new longevity requires serious money moves to have financial security for a long lifespan. The 100-Year-Opportunity is here, according to researchers at the Stanford Center on Longevity. They've also developed a guide for leading a quality, thriving life as we live longer called The Map of Life.  An important feature is creating new concepts, policies and services for longterm financial security, starting at birth. In our monthly series NEXT AGE, we’re having conversations about growing older and efforts to reframe aging in a way that helps all of us. This episode explores innovative programs like like RESET (Raising Economic Security to Enjoy Thriving), a free service offered by AgeWell Middle Tennessee and United Way of Greater Nashville. We also discussing options for older adults to hae housing security and affordability. A huge majority of people 50+ (75%) say they want to live in their own homes as they grow older, according to AARP.   We’ll look at unique ways some local adults who want to “age in place” are making that affordable. 

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our last episode, we discussed how providers support folks in limbo while they're waiting on application responses and hear how people cope in this liminal space In this episode, our guests fill us in on what happens when the paperwork finally comes through and puzzle pieces start building a hopeful picture. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we're learning what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. And we're discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: Alyssa Fernandez, director of permanent housing, Oasis Center Abdikadir Mohamed, Senior Rapid Rehousing Case Manager, Safe Haven Family Shelter Brandon Battle, housing stability guide, The Contributor Kipp Ochsner, resident at The Village at Glencliff Jesse Call, resident care manager at The Village at Glencliff Linda Bailey, co-editor of The Contributor

Charles William Ashworth is Charlie Peacock. And vice versa. Encouraged to move to Nashville in late eighties, Charlie steadily built a stellar career. As a songwriter, producer and industry executive, he won six Grammy Awards. His writing credits include two multi-platinum songs, “Every Heartbeat” by Amy Grant and “In the Light” by DC Talk. His production and development credits include The Civil Wars, The Lone Bellow and Switchfoot. And let's not forget he's also a jazz musician. It's no wonder Billboard named hime one of the 500 most important producers in pop music history. Now Charlie has written a memoir. Roots & Rhythm: A Life in Music is deeply contemplative, weaving together stories of ancestry, faith, personal growth and, of course, music. This conversation with Khalil Ekulona goes deep! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.

It’s that time again! Time for you to talk with Mayor Freddie O’Connell.

Is Nashville sinking? Is it a problem?

Bob Clement’s life has been a fascinating one. At 29, he became the youngest Tennessean elected to statewide office, a title he still holds today. After his time at the PSA, President Jimmy Carter tapped him for a spot on the board of Tennessee Valley Authority. In the late eighties, he ran and won the congressional race for the 5th district. He served for eight years. Now, as the Board President Emeritus of the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum in Dickson, he protects and curates the legacy of his father, Governor Frank G. Clement. Congressman Clement joins us today  share stories about his life and the extraordinary people he’s met along the way. Plus he examine his father’s legacy and ruminates on the state of politics and civil discourse today.

Like it or not, it’s snake season. They eat rats, mice and moles. Some good snakes even eat "bad" ones! They help keep lakes and rivers clean. Their venom has been used to treat diseases from high blood pressure to cancer. Whether it's a harmless corn snake or a coiled-up copperhead — rarely are they a welcome sight. But knowledge is power, so we’re taking on local herpetology! And we're doing it together. Bring us your questions on air. Whenever it’s Your Turn to Talk, call 615-760-2000 between noon and 1pm to join the conversation. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Michael Meister, Natural Resource Manager, Tennessee State Parks Dr. Brian Miller. Biology Professor, MTSU Lindsey Patel, Snake Education Expert and Tennessee Snake Identification and Education Facebook Group Lisa Powers, Founding President of the Tennessee Herpetological Society Further Reading To the Rattlesnake by Vaida Stewart Montgomery - poem read by a caller A Guide to Snakes of Middle Tennessee (PDF), Dr. Brian Miller, MTSU Tennessee Snake IDentification and Education group (Facebook) Think twice before killing snakes this summer as it's illegal in Tennessee (NewsChannel 5)

Last month, rural Tennesseans, Hollywood actors and a live studio audience in New York City came together. On the agenda were issues that bind us. Theater of War is a New York theater company that "presents community-specific, theater-based projects that address pressing public health and social issues." Recently, they approached WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger with a fascinating opportunity. Today we bring you the result – an esteemed group of Hollywood actors reading “In Rural Tennessee, Domestic Violence Victims Face Barriers to Getting Justice. One County Has Transformed Its Approach.” The piece, written by Paige Pfleger for WPLN and ProPublica, is read in its entirety. What follows is a post-performance conversation between people from one of Tennessee’s most rural areas and the audience in New York City. This episode was produced by Theater of War Productions, Liv Lombardi and Paige Pfleger Actors Debra Winger (Terms of Endearment, Urban Cowboy) Josh Hamilton (Eighth Grade, The Walking Dead) Daphne Rubin-Vega (In the Heights, Only Murders in the Building) Bill Irwin (Interstellar, Rachel Getting Married).

We’re sailing over to Nashville's waterfront. Percy Priest is a local's lake — and the experiences there are as diverse as the growing communities surrounding it. We’re sharing stories about the land, the water and the wildlife. And we're opening the phone lines to hear your stories! (Extra credit if you call in while on the water.) Situated between Nashville International Airport, Mt. Juliet and Smyrna, Percy Priest is a man-made reservoir dotted with nearly 40 islands. Rarely a tourist destination, and lacking a well-funded “friends” group, it's still loved by many. Join us for the short trip to the shores of this lake today!  This episode was produced by Katherine Ruppelt. GUESTS: Sean Wlodarczyk, Nashville Rowing Club president Gretchen Abernathy, camper Derhat Mohammed, angler FURTHER READING & BROWSING: Nashville Rowing Club Percy Priest Yacht Club The Tennessean | How one man caught 76.5-pound buffalo fish at Percy Priest Lake in Nashville WPLN | This Tennessee camp creates space for grief — and joy — for children who have lost a loved one

Growing up as an Arab-American woman in rural Waverly — and traveling for her career — have shaped Samar Ali's life as a peacemaker. Her journey includes stops at Vanderbilt University, the Supreme Court of South Africa, the White House, and eventually back to her home state. Along the way, she has faced and overcome personal attacks. It's all fueled her longing for unity and justice. Now, through her nonprofit Millions of Conversations, Ali works to create a future where every American feels safe and free to be themselves. In this episode, we explore how her life and career guide her mission to heal division. Further reading Q&A: International conflict expert talks Israel-Hamas war, civilian casualties, and the inevitability of peace (WPLN) Middle Tennessee’s shifting media landscape (This is Nashville) Millions of Conversations: The Show (Newschannel 5)

Fifty-seven percent of the mayor’s recommended budget for next year comes from property taxes. Another almost twenty percent comes from local sales tax. But what are the other funding sources? And what does the budget cover? On today’s episode we cover many of the details of the proposed $3.8 billion spending plan — how the money's allocated, how metro departments request increases, and the difference between the operating budget and the Capital Improvements Budget. It’s your money, so join us! Whenever it's Your Turn to Talk, call 615-760-2000 between noon and 1pm to join the conversation. Guests Councilmember Delishia Porterfield, Chair, Nashville Metro Council's Budget and Finance Committee Mary Jo Wiggins, Deputy Director of the Metro Finance Department Austin Hornbostel, Metro Reporter, Tennessean Dr. Murat Arik, Director, Business and Economic Research Center (BERC), Middle Tennessee State University Further reading Citizens' Guide to the Metro Budget Nashville mayor outlines priorities — and a tax increase — in State of Metro speech (WPLN) Mayor O'Connell explains 26% tax increase, spending priorities as budget season gets going (Tennessean) With Nashville budget debate looming, some on council may lobby for lower property taxes(Tennessean) Judge orders Trump administration to release frozen grants, including $14M for Nashville(Tennessean) 

Every year, thousands enter the temple in Nashville's Parthenon to view the nearly 42-foot statue of Athena. But this year, she turns 35 years young. The Greek goddess of warfare and wisdom, carved out of gypsum cement, took eight years to complete. On today's show, we chat with the sculptor behind the deity, Alan LeQuire, to hear about his process. Plus, we learn about his new exhibition, Monumental Figures. Parthenon Museum Curator Jennifer Richardson joins the panel along with Parthenon Director of Education Helen Sanders. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Mary Mancini.  GUESTS Alan LeQuire, Sculptor — LeQuire Gallery. Helen Sanders — Parthenon Director of Education Jennifer Richardson — Parthenon Museum Curator

Across cultures, rites of passage often honor a transition from one cycle of life to another.  On today's show, three Nashvillians share their own experiences and how it felt entering a new stage of life. From performing a bat mitzvah to living as a Buddhist monk — and even undergoing a "croning" — each of these ceremonies left an impact on our guests. Join us as we learn how different cultures mark these milestones. This episode was produced by Char Daston and Josh Deepan.  GUESTS: Zoe Sparks — Hume Fogg '29 Debi Young — Interfaith Celebrant Stefanie Kisselburg — Administrative Professional Don Srisuryo — MTSU Student Engagement Coordinator

For over two decades, native Tennessean Maryam Abolfazli has been a leader in economic development and the nonprofit sector. Then in 2023, she became a leading voice among gun safety organizers after the Covenant School shooting tragedy. So much so that she ran for Congress in 2024. Today we sit down with Abolfazli to learn what it’s like to run for office at the federal level and what single-parenting in the modern world is like for her. Plus, as founder of the non-profit Rise and Shine TN, she shares her thoughts about the future of her city, state, and country. Further Reading Maryam Abolfazli encourages hope, love in time of ‘bitter anger’ (WPLN) Opinion: Meet Maryam Abolfazli, Democratic nominee for Tennessee U.S. House, District 5 (Tennessean) Nashvillians of the Year: The Gun Safety Advocates (Nashville Scene)

The Nashville-based country music industry has been slow to truly embrace the impact of the wide array of Latine artists actively making country music both here and around the world. To speed things along, a new generation of locals are working together to form supportive communities and organizations. On today’s episode we hear from musicians and advocates who organize support for one another both publicly and behind the scenes. Plus, we explore how Freddy Fender, an early pioneer of Latine country, influenced the industry and helped build a foundation for the next generation. This episode was produced by Jewly Hight and Mary Mancini. Guests Louie TheSinger, Country music artist Jackie Marushka, Founder of the Hispanic Entertainment Alliance and Marushka Media Andrea Vasquez, Country artist, Co-founder of Country Latin Association, and host of the Latina in Nashville podcast Veronique Medrano, singer-songwriter and archivist/preservationist Further Reading and Listening Angie K blends her El Salvadoran roots and Nashville savvy in her new EP and the Country Latin Association (WPLN) Tracing the history of Latino artists making country music (WPLN) The case for Freddy Fender’s induction as first Hispanic member of Country Music Hall of Fame (Texas Standard)  

Let's talk about the C-word: Caregiving. In this episode, we continue our monthly series, NEXT AGE, with stories of people who are caring for an older adult relative.  If you’re thinking "who cares?" —  this might make you feel differently: According to a report from the National Alliance for Caregiving, for every five people you know, at least one of them is caring for a family member and even more are caring for more than one relative. They are unpaid — often unseen and sacrificing well-being, finances and identity. Caregiving is now a universal experience impacting every age, gender, socioeconomic and racial or ethnic group.  In the words of the late former first lady Rosalyn Carter:  “There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, And those who will need a caregiver.”  It can be a rewarding experience; but it can also be a physical, financial and emotional struggle. This episode will share stories of local people caring for an older adult relative. We'll hear from aging advocates about services and support systems for family caregivers, learn about options for longterm care allowing people to age at home, and we'll find out the latest research on strategies for coping and finding well-being. Our show is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner. GUESTS: Kenya Watkins, Family Caregiver Tiffany Cloud-Mann, Eldercare Coach/AgeWell Middle Tennessee Keri Pagetta, Sandwich Generation caregiver Dr. Feylyn Lewis, Caregiving Researcher / Dean of Student Affairs, Vanderbilt  University School of Nursing William Zagorski, Executive Director / Centennial Adultcare Center

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. Many people experiencing homelessness have to overcome hurdles to access services and housing. In our last episode, we discussed the time tax of filling out redundant paperwork. Once that paperwork is filled out and submitted, people are still unhoused.  Today we talk about what happens during that waiting period. We will discuss with our guests how providers work with people while they are in limbo about whether, when, and where they will be able to access housing, and we’ll hear how people feel about this waiting period. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning about what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. We’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett and Tasha AF Lemley.  Further listening: Overview episode of In My Place Listen to all episodes at the In My Place page on the WPLN website or as a podcast on Apple, Spotify and more.

Tennessee put a hold on executions in 2022 due to concerns about its lethal injection protocol. This morning, the state resumed executions, using lethal injection to put to death Oscar Franklin Smith.  He had spent more than three decades incarcerated and went through numerous execution dates. Today on the show, we speak with one of Smith's sons, Casey Smith, about the impact this crime — and its punishment — have had on his life. But first, WPLN criminal justice reporter Paige Pfleger joins us to report on today's latest developments. Today's episode was produced by Paige Pfleger and Tasha A.F. Lemley. GUESTS Paige Pfleger, WPLN Criminal Justice Reporter Casey Smith, son of Oscar Franklin Smith

On today’s show, we speak with experts in the fields of dialect coaching and sociolinguistics to learn the cultural and scientific aspects of what we call an “accent.”  We'll also hear from people who have moved to America and worked to change the way they sound. And we want to hear from you, too! So call into the show and talk about your own speech patterns. Do you think you have an accent? Have you been judged because of how you sound? Tell us your stories and toss us your questions.  This episode was produced by Josh Deepan and Liv Lombardi.  GUESTS:  Richard Morris, PhD — MTSU Professor of Spanish and Linguistics Javaneh Hemmat — Owner, Hummus Chick (Instagram — @hummuschick) Erik Singer — Actor, Dialect Coach (Instagram — @eriksinger)

For sixteen years Giancarlo Guerrero has captivated audiences with his charismatic conducting — all while championing the works of prominent American composers and winning multiple GRAMMY Awards. This weekend, Guerrero’s tenure as Music Director at the Nashville Symphony comes to a close. On today’s episode, he joins us to talk about his life, his work and, of course, the music. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini, Nina Cardona and Char Daston. GUESTS Giancarlo Guerrero, Conductor and Music Director, Nashville Symphony FURTHER READING Nashville Symphony music director Giancarlo Guerrero will step down (WPLN) Nashville Moment: Giancarlo Guerrero (Nashville Lifestyles)

GRAMMY winner Béla Fleck has taken the art of playing the banjo to stellar heights. He's here to share about his journey playing music professionally for more than 50 years — and about his latest album, BEATrio, which dropped last week.  Fleck has amassed a career playing the banjo for audiences all over the world as well as with legendary musicians. Most recently, he's teamed up with musicians Edmar Castañeda and Antonio Sánchez for BEATrio. Today, we're talking about this latest project and ask what he has learned on his journey through life. Join us! This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona. GUEST: Béla Fleck, musician

Nashville’s non-profit film center The Belcourt Theatre turns one hundred this month and there's no denying its long and positive impact on this city. Over the course of a century, The Belcourt has been many different things including a stage for the Grand Ole Opry, a silent film house and a community playhouse for children's theatre. Join us today as we explore celebrations planned for this impressive and notable milestone, the highs and lows of its history, how it became the independent film industry powerhouse it is today. This episode was produced by Justin Barney and Mary Mancini. Guests Stephanie Silverman, Executive Director, The Belcourt Theatre Teddy Minton, Public Historian and Archivist, The Belcourt Theatre Tom Wills, Community Volunteer

Mister Rogers once told his young viewers to “look for the helpers” in times of crisis. On this episode we talk with advocates who work every day with some of the most vulnerable in this country: immigrants. We hear from lawyers on both the employment side and the humanitarian side of immigration law. Plus, we learn about the impact of being an immigration lawyer in 2025 has on mental health.  This episode was produced by Char Daston and Josh Deepan.  GUESTS: Doug Russo – owner, Rose Immigration Law Firm Linda Rose – founder, Rose Immigration Law Firm Tessa Lemos del Pino – Executive Director – Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors Bethany Jackson – Senior Counsel – Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors Aineth Murguia – Assistant Legal Director – Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors

Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls! This month, the mayor talks ICE raids, transportation, the State of Metro and more. Then, later in the show, we hear from Metro Property Assessor Vivian Wilhoite about the latest property tax assessment and appeals process. Next month, the mayor is scheduled to join us on Thursday, June 18. Mark your calendar and call 615-760-2000 at noon that day with your question or comment. You can also leave us a message at 615-751-2500 and it might end up on the show! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Cynthia Abrams. Guests Freddie O’Connell, Mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Vivian Wilhoite, Assessor of Property, Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County

Bill Birdsong Miller has been playing and creating music for over 50 years. He might be having more fun now than ever before. Nashville-based musician Bill Birdsong Miller is an icon in the Native American music community. He discovered his love for music when he was young, and the deep connection and joy he found when he played has guided him through a career spanning several decades, countless tours and 3 grammy wins. Today he’s here to share wisdom he’s earned from his global career and his own evolution as an artist–  and he’ll be performing live in the studio. Join us! This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTSBill Birdsong Miller FURTHER LISTENING This Is Nashville | Ever go to concert inside a cave? You can at The Caverns

Yesterday, reporters assigned to cover the Tennessee State Capitol joined us for a legislative wrap-up. Today, we go a bit deeper with a post-session analysis. How will the bills passed on issues like education, immigration and foster care impact the lives of the people who live and work in Tennessee? Plus, we’re opening up the phone lines because it’s your turn to talk. What questions or comments do you have about the legislation passed this year? Call 615-760-2000 to join the conversation. This episode was produced and hosted by Mary Mancini. Guests Bruce Barry, Opinion Columnist, Tennessee Lookout Dawn Schluckebier, Advocacy and Government Relations Director; Think Tennessee Cameron Smith, Opinion Columnist and Member of the Editorial Board, Tennessean Further reading and listening You can access the Think Tennessee State of our State dashboard on its website. Think Tennessee also publishes a State of our Counties dashboard. Listen to After the Gavel, Part 1: Legislative Wrap Up on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Tennessee legislature recently wrapped up the first half of the 114th General Assembly, and there is a lot to digest. Today, we bring you the first of a two-part review. Reporters assigned to cover the work of our elected state representatives join us to recap the bills passed, the bills still waiting to be signed by the governor, and the constitutional amendments that will appear on the ballot in 2026. Tomorrow, we go a bit deeper into the issues with a post-session analysis — that you can join by calling 615-760-2000 at noon Thursday. Guests Sarah Grace Taylor, State Government Reporter, Nashville Banner Marianna Bacallao, Power and Equity Reporter, WPLN Nina Cardona, Morning/NashVillager Podcast Host, WPLN Catherine Sweeney, Health Reporter, WPLN

Tennessee has a precious natural resource: wetlands. We even have wetlands right here in the heart of Nashville. And they are at risk. During the 2025 legislative session, Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill that will cut some of the protections for wetlands across the state. Developers now have the option to build over wetlands without informing the state and will no longer be financially incentivized to develop around them. Today, we hear why wetlands are a valuable part of a healthy ecosystem. We also break down the legislation and check in with local groups working to protect this natural resource. This episode was produced by Caroline Eggers, WPLN’s environmental reporter, and Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS Dr. Justin Murdock, Ecologist and Professor of Biology, Tennessee Tech University Grace Stranch, CEO, Harpeth Conservancy LaTricea Adams, President of Young, Gifted and Green FURTHER READING & LISTENINGWPLN | Wetlands have some protections in Tennessee. The state legislature might remove them.

For 50 years, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Amy Grant has captivated audiences. And luckily for us, she calls Nashville home. On today’s show, we speak with Amy about not just her career but her experiences raising a family while on the road, her perceptions of Nashville, and what she has in store next. We also speak with her about her approach to writing and composing a song and the importance of collaboration when making music. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona.  GUESTS:Amy Grant, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter

Summer is on the way! Today, we're talking how to get out to enjoy local ponds, rivers and lakes to cool down and have some fun! Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, or fishing! There are so many ways to enjoy being on the water. Today we're talking with local water enthusiasts about their favorite ways to jump in — and what you need to know to get out there  to join them – and stay safe. Join us! 2025 update: Want to gain skills and confidence on the water? Check out the 2025 National Safe Boating Week and consider signing up for Kayak 101 classes which will be held across several TN state parks on May 17th for $15 (usually $50-100). Today's show was produced by Katherine Ceicys. Today's Guests: Candace Daniels, Tennessee State Parks Ranger Joel Morales, Stand up paddle boarder Stephanie Sullivan, Operations Manager, Tennessee Scenic River Association (TSRA) Gabbie, Nashville 8th grader and TSRA River Kids participant Geoff Luckett, American Canoe Association (ACA) Kayak and Kayak Fishing Instructor Blake Osborn, Coordinator, MSTU Outdoor Pursuits

Students here in Middle Tennessee are gearing up for finals, special dances, and for some, graduation. Today we are checking in with local students to hear about their past school years. We’ll find out what they’ve learned in and out of the classroom and how they are navigating friendships, responsibilities and new freedoms. We’ll also hear from some students who were on the show in the fall. Join us! Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.  GUESTS Sharp, 5th grader Jocelyn, 7th grader Annika, 9th grader Sofia, 9th grader William, 11th grader FURTHER LISTENING This Is Nashville | Civically engaged young people

Welcome back to our second season of In My Place. This special series educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. In our first two episodes of this season, we talked about what the first point of contact is like between someone who’s experiencing homelessness and someone who could potentially offer help — and then how they build trust after that point. In this episode, we talk about what happens next on the road home: the processes and paperwork it takes for people to transition out of homelessness to housing. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we’re learning about what it feels like to access services and weave through our local homelessness and healthcare systems. We’re discussing what services work, what resources are missing, and what ideas our guests have for improvement. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judith Tackett. Guests: Brian Haile, CEO of Neighborhood Health Jesse Call, resident care manager at The Village at Glencliff India Pungarcher, Associate Director of Advocacy, Open Table Nashville

After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, Steve Swenson set out to make a name for himself in the radio industry. Mission accomplished.  His 45-year career has seen him in key positions in Washington DC, Los Angeles, New York and finally Nashville. Well, he's soon retiring and This Is Nashville would be remiss if we did not sit down with our boss for last drop of wisdom. Listen in to this episode as he reflects on a fantastic career. This episode was produced by Khalil Ekulona.

We're saying goodbye to Khalil today! After more than 550 episodes and thousands of guests, Khalil Ekulona is taking his last turn behind the This Is Nashville mic.  We have gratitude — but no words — so we're inviting the public to call in with some. Join the conversation at noon or listen later to hear what he has meant to you and Middle Tennessee! Today's episode was produced by Mary Mancini, Katherine Ceicys and Josh Deepan. GUESTS Khalil Ekulona Celia Gregory Keri Pagetta

No matter what you think about aging, one thing is for sure: EVERYbody’s doing it! It’s also true that in the U.S., people are living longer, and overall, healthier, more active and empowered than ever in our country’s history. It’s not uncommon to have three, four, or even five generations in the same family or workplace. According to the last U.S. Census, adults in Tennessee over 60 make up 23% of the population. That’s about one in 5 people — and growing. This rapid demographic shift is changing conversations around aging. Starting with this first episode, we join that discussion with a new series titled “Next Age.” Once a month, we’ll bring you stories and information about growing older in the 21st century — and how Middle Tennesseans are reframing aging. Our show is made possible by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration. GUESTS: Patricia D’Antonio, Executive Director, Center to Reframe Aging Rhonda Cherry, member, Fifty Forward Ralph Bristol, member, Fifty Forward Jon Wellington, co-founder, GenX Takeover Sallie Hussey, Chief Executive Officer, Fifty Forward Dr. James Powers, geriatrician/researcher/professor, VUMC Division of Geriatric Medicine

Elite piano tuning is grueling work. It’s taxing on the body, it strains relationships, and it never leads to fame or glory. Music Citizens, a podcast series by WNXP and Nashville Public Radio, recently explored how someone becomes the top piano tuner in Nashville and why they would want to. Today we welcome the voices of episode three, The Tuner. They're just some of the people who keep the music business moving — but whose vital work goes largely uncelebrated. Plus, we learn what it takes to fix a piano when it is seemingly broken beyond repair. Guests Brent Arledge, Owner, Arledge Piano Service James Arledge, Owner, Arledge Music Wire, Brent's dad Justin Barney, Music Reporter at Nashville Public Radio Jonathan Rizzo,  Owner, American Piano Tuning Further listeningListen to Music Citizens Episode 3: The Tuner, and every episode of Music Citizens, wherever you get your podcasts or on the WNXP website.

Khalil Ekulona has been the voice — and a driving force — of This Is Nashville since he helped launch the show three years ago. He has brought his curiosity, warmth and genuine empathy to the more than 550 episodes he’s hosted. Today, he’s sitting down on the other side of the mic to share about his time on This Is Nashville and the surprising journey that led him to public radio.  We’ll also hear about the large family that shaped Ekulona, his love for creating music, and his philosophy on the importance of living life right now, no matter what. Jad Abumrad is the special guest host today. Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys.  GUESTS Khalil Ekulona, host This Is Nashville Guest host: Jad Abumrad FURTHER LISTENING This Is Nashville episodes mentioned | The N Word Part 1; The N Word Part 2; The horror, the horror!

Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls. Do you have a concern you would like him to address? Do you have a question about the direction of the city? Call 615-760-2000 with your question or comment. Then, later in the show, we hear from Jaffee Judah about his path to environmental justice advocacy and the work of his non-profit, Recycle and Reinvest. This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Josh Deepen. Guests Freddie O’Connell, mayor, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Jaffee Judah, executive director of Recycle & Reinvest; artist

Hip hop as a genre is getting more attention from the music industry in Nashville. A good thing! But not all hip hop music is the same, nor are the ways in which hip hop music is made. The old technique, i.e., sampling, is as popular as ever, but in certain aspects it is different from when it was introduced. Once a month, a group of producers gathers together to play each other's tracks they are working on. Music City Producers, based out of Madison, hosts producers of all types of hip hop and its derivatives: boom-bap, trap, R&B, lo-fi, EDM, trance, club, etc. Today we meet some of the producers and talk with them about their music, how they create it, and why samples are important to how they work. We also follow the process of how to use samples to create a hip hop song. Hip hop artist M Slago will travel with host Khalil Ekulona as they venture into a record store to shop for vinyl, head back to the studio to listen, and create their own hip hop track for all to hear. Guests Kamaal Malak, musician, Arrested Development; Artist In Residence/Vanderbilt University Jason Rawls, aka J Rawls, hip hop musician and Assistant Professor of Hip Hop at Ohio State University Corey Parker aka Just Vybes, musician, producer Johnathan Harris aka Jon Jyzzle, musician, producer Sims Lester aka The Orbit Sound

We love hearing about the moment in someone’s life when they decide it’s time to start helping others. We call it “a civic spark.” Today, we’re talking to two people — Brittney Brown with The Store and Samaria Leach with Window of Love — about their civic spark moments. How were they able to turn their own hardship into help for others? And how do you make sure that spark becomes a flame that doesn’t just burn out? Guests: Samaria Leach, founder of Window of Love Brittney Brown, director of mission advancement at The Store 

There are only about 800 forensic pathologists in the entire United States. That is much lower than the number of deaths requiring investigation. How do they handle workload? What is the day in the life of a pathologist like? What are some common causes of death in Tennessee? How do pathologists determine the manner of death? If you’re into true crime, this is for you. Joining us on this edition of This Is Nashville is the state chief medical examiner for the Tennessee Department of Health, Adele Lewis. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  GUESTS Adele Lewis, Tennessee Department of Health State Chief Medical Examiner

Metro Nashville oversees 178 parks and over 100 miles of greenway. But that only scratches the surface. From recreational arts to dance classes, nature lectures, and team sports, everyone can find their "something" at a Nashville park. In this episode, we speak with representatives from the Nashville Parks Department about how to make the most of the spring weather. And you have a chance to speak with them! Our phone lines are open: Call us at 615-760-2000 with your question, or perhaps even some sage advice for Nashville newcomers. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests:  Jackie Jones, Metro Parks Community Affairs Superintendent Rana Mitchell, Metro Parks Public Information Officer Joshua Wagner, Metro Parks Visual Arts Supervisor Stevon Neloms, Metro Parks Recreation Division, Community Centers, Cultural Arts John Holmes, Metro Parks Special Services, Golf Heather Gallagher, Metro Parks Naturalist

They’re portable, have four strings, and George Harrison loved them so much he gave them out as presents. Today, we take a look at the popular, adorable, miniature guitar-shaped instrument known as the ukulele and the thriving uke community that exists in Middle Tennessee. Players of all skill levels join us, from beginner to professional, to share how they became hooked on this misunderstood instrument and how Music City has become a ukulele destination. Guests Melanie Ching (aka Ukumele), organizer, Music City Uke Fest Daniel Tashian, artist, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Christopher Waldrop, ukulele player  The Ukedelics – Todd Elgin, Anita Moffatt, Chet Kloss and Tim Davies Further Reading WPLN | Ukulele Bound – Bright Littlefield Strum a Different Beat If you want to start playing, you can borrow a ukulele from the Nashville Public Library’s Library of Things. The Nashville Ukulele Society meets once a month.

Nearly 40% of Tennessee’s land is farmland. But Tennessee is rapidly losing its farmland, mostly to development. Once land is developed it is exceptionally difficult to ever turn it back. In response, some farmers, organizations and the state are currently working together to help preserve farms and farmland in Tennessee.  Today we are speaking with two Tennessee farmers about how they’re approaching stewarding their properties for generations to come. We’ll also speak with State Senator Jack Johnson about a bill he sponsored that seeks to help Tennessee farmers protect their farmland. Join us! This episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS Marianne Blackwell, Cattle farmer in Rutherford County Gary Gardner, 4th generation farmer in Ardmore, Tennessee Liz McLaurin, President and CEO Land Trust for Tennessee Senator Jack Johnson, Tennessee State Senator, sponsor of the Farmland Preservation Bill

Larry Gatlin of The Gatlin Brothers is a name country and gospel fans know well. He is a famed singer and songwriter with Grammy awards, hit songs, and a legacy of classic performances under his belt. His hits include “Broken Lady,” “All the Gold in California,” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You).” Gatlin’s career spans seventy years and has earned him a place in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Today we sit down with Larry to hear about his life, his career, and the songs on his heart.

Waiting on the phone or in a long line for customer service is no fun. But what new alternatives exist? Today we hear the Davidson County Clerk’s Office new self-serve kiosks. Plus, Metro Nashville Waste Services has a new curbside composting pilot program that's part of their Zero Waste initiative. Join us to learn about these new and innovative processes created to save you time and serve you better. Plus, last night and in the early morning Middle Tennessee experienced severe weather, including severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. WPLN's Nina Cardona joins us with updates. Guests Brenda Wynn, Davidson County Clerk Jenn Harrman, Administrative Services Manager, Nashville Department of Waste Services Nina Cardona, morning host, WPLN

Today we talk about our station's history through your eyes - from that first day to where we are now, how long have you been listening and why? WPLN's first broadcast was on December 17, 1962, and lasted for just 12 hours. Back then, programming consisted of classical music, local content, and informational programs from sources all over the world. This year the station celebrates its 63rd birthday, and we've come a long way from our first studio in the Richland Park library. Join us! This episode was produced by Mary Mancini. Guests Nina Cardona, morning host, WPLN Jama Mohamed, listener and community member Tia Sillers, Grammy award winning songwriter, listener Further Reading and Listening You can find some archived WPLN broadcasts from 1995-2007 online at the American Archive of Public Broadcast. In 2012, Nina Cardona wrote about WPLN's 50th anniversary. Listen to This is Nashville celebrate sixty years of WPLN in December 2022.

Were you lucky enough to have someone read you bedtime stories when you were young? Did you still remember that one book you read in middle school that made you feel like someone out there completely understood you? Books give kids a special way to learn, explore and think about how they fit into a world that can feel very big to them. Today, we’re speaking with local authors who write for young readers. We'll hear about their latest books and what it’s really like to create stories and worlds that capture the attention of young readers — but can speak to all of us. Today's episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUESTS: Rachel Tawil Kenyon, author You Know How To Love Doan Phuong  Nguyen, author A Two Placed Heart  Julian Vaca, author The Memory Index

“Does it bring joy, and can it impact the community?” That’s the litmus test for Soccer Moses, aka the Handsomizer, aka Stephen Mason. Outside of Nashville, he might be better known as the lead guitarist for one of the top Christian rock bands of the ‘90s, Jars of Clay. But whether he’s playing on stage, cutting hair or dressed in a full Moses costume at a Nashville SC game, he’s always trying to figure out how he can use his exuberance and his platform for good. This episode was produced by Emily Siner.

Some people who have come close to death or who have clinically died and been resuscitated report having had a profound out-of-body experience called a Near Death Experience (NDE). Today we’ll meet the topic of NDEs and a conversation about life and death with open curiosity and compassion. We’ll hear from an NDE researcher and speak with an end-of-life doula about how she serves those who are close to death as well as her perspective on NDEs. And our phone lines are open: 615-760-2000. Join us! Today’s episode was produced by Katherine Ceicys. GUEST: Wilka Roig | Transpersonal psychologist, End-of-Life doula, educator with International End of Life Doula Association (INDELA)

Pedestrian deaths skyrocketed in Nashville during the pandemic. Although recent trends appear promising, the scar left behind still lingers. Advocates for pedestrian safety responded to the ongoing issue by crafting, painting and placing wooden doves around the city, marking where pedestrians were hit. They, along with Diana Alarcon, the director of the Nashville Department of Transformation, join This Is Nashville to update Nashvillians on the issues around pedestrian safety. Additionally, they will discuss improvements underway in Davidson County, and how pedestrians who survived hit-and-runs still face hurdles years later. This episode was produced by Josh Deepan.  Guests: Joan Kite, hit-and-run survivor, advocate Anonymous advocate Diana Alarcon, Nashville Department of Transportation director Further reading:  Nashville set another pedestrian fatality record in 2022 Police are searching for hit-and-run drivers after a deadly month for Nashville pedestrians You asked, we answered: Your guide to Nashville's 2024 transit referendum

Last month, we explored the first point of contact between people experiencing homelessness and outreach workers, service providers and the police. Today, we look at what happens after establishing that first contact. We talk to our guests about the importance of relationship building and the role trust plays when working with the unhoused population.  Nashville Public Radio's daily show, This Is Nashville, presents the second season of In My Place — a series about finding home in our growing city. In My Place educates listeners on what communities like Nashville can do to prevent and end homelessness — while caring for our neighbors who are still unhoused. Over the course of nine monthly episodes, we will talk to people who still experience homelessness. We will learn about what it feels like to access services and maneuver through the complexities of our local homelessness and health care systems on the path to housing. We will discuss with our guests what services work, what resources are missing, and their ideas for improving access to housing and services. This series was created thanks in part to support from Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and was produced by Judy Tackett and Tasha A.F. Lemley. Guests: Devon “Black Dragon” Howard, lived experience; Community Care Fellowship Ryan Lampa, executive director, People Loving Nashville Alonzo Cheeks, board Member of Project Return Rico X, CEO of Project Return

Even at a young age, we have the power to influence and shape the world around us.

Today it’s your turn to talk. As a consumer, are you concerned about what tariffs might do to your household budget? As a business owner, are you already changing your operations to brace for impact? Call us at 615-760-2000 to share your comment or ask a question.

We’ve got a bit of variety for you today, as we discover more about Scarritt Bennett Center and NECAT, the city’s public access television network.

Tennessee is home to the nation’s oldest continuously published quarterly: the Sewanee Review.

If you are a fan of local media, there is a good chance you’ve heard the voice or seen the face of Jerome Moore.

Do you want to make a difference in your community and our state? One way you can is to run for elected office.

Almost five years have passed since COVID-19 brought the world to a screeching halt.

For as long as prisons have been a part of civil society, long sentences, separation from loved ones, and harsh conditions have caused intense feelings of isolation, despair and a profound loss of hope among the incarcerated.

Over last year’s holiday season, we produced an episode where we asked Nashvillians and Middle Tennesseans to share their thoughts and feelings about living here in the region. The idea was inspired by the poem “A City on a River” penned by former guest Mac Pirkle. The contributors on that episode shared poems, essays, op-eds, letters, and what felt like a speech.

Easter is a common thread across Christian traditions. However, for Catholics, Orthodox Christians and a growing number of Protestants, Lent — the 40 or so days leading up to Holy Week and Easter Sunday — are a deeply spiritual time of reflection, fasting and greater engagement with one’s faith community.

Bees, butterflies, even birds and other insects provide the essential service of carrying pollen from flower to flower, helping to grow the food we eat.

So many wild animals call Nashville home. There is a lot we can do to help protect our wild neighbors.

Political commentator and writer David French is well known in politically conservative and Christian circles. But in a time when misinformation and swagger sells, French expresses deeply personal and independent views, leaving him at odds with some conservatives and Christians.

After the Covenant School shooting in 2023, Tennessee lawmakers passed two contradictory laws that were designed to reduce violence and discourage students from making threats.

The country music business ecosystem in Nashville continues to thrive. But what about other genres of music, like hip-hop and R&B?

Today, we kick off the second season of In My Place by exploring what happens when providers first approach people who experience homelessness.

David Plazas has worked in newsrooms for more than 25 years, and he has seen it all.

Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city — and take your calls.

Expungement of criminal records in Tennessee requires more than just a flick of a pen. To complicate matters further, expungement rules apply to anyone who has stood trial, not just those who have received a sentence.

Our neighbors here in Tennessee who have an intellectual or developmental disability are full of life and often looking for opportunities to have fun and connect. Most of us are looking for that too!

Grabbing a candy bar at the convenient store is one thing, but where do you go in Nashville when you want to elevate your chocolate chomping experience?

African Americans have contributed in countless ways to the history and culture of Nashville and Tennessee.

Roughly one in five American workers need a professional license to do their job. Professional licensing boards both grant and can revoke those licenses.

Admitted to practice law in 1979, Abby Rubenfeld boasts a laundry list of accomplishments for LGBTQ+ individuals in Tennessee, including challenging the state’s ban on sodomy and same-sex marriage.

The month of January saw massive and fast-moving changes to immigration policy at both the state and federal levels.

It is no secret that Nashville has a strong performing arts presence, but arguably, even more important is the city’s impact on Black history.

Are you in need of a good laugh? This Is Nashville has you covered! Today, local comedians Rhonda Sweat and Marcus Lustig are here and will be taking the Nashville Public Radio Sonic Cathedral stage.

United Way of Greater Nashville is one of our region’s largest nonprofits, and Erica Mitchell just stepped into her new role as President and CEO there.

Every month, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to discuss the latest happenings in and around the city and take your calls.

Tennessee has a precious natural resource: wetlands. We even have wetlands right here in the heart of Nashville. And they are at risk.

How do people find meaning? The Conversation Coalition began as a group of Christian and atheist friends seeking to have convivial discussions about their differences.

With a career spanning over twenty-five years, singer-songwriter Mary Gauthier writes deeply emotional and personal songs.

Yesterday, a 17-year-old Antioch High School student shot two other students and then himself. The shooter and one of the other students died. Another was treated at an area hospital and has been released. This is the second time in two years that there’s been a fatal school shooting in Nashville.

Can you imagine finding out from your doctor that you need an organ transplant to live? Right now, over 3,000 people in Tennessee are waiting on transplant lists.

Xin Nian Kuai Le to all! Today, members of the Chinese Arts Alliance of Nashville join us to share all the details surrounding the Middle Tennessee celebration of the Lunar New Year — the performances, celebrations and behind-the-scenes prep for the 2025 Year of the Snake.

The Tennessee General Assembly reconvenes for another session this week. We’re taking you inside the halls of power to preview the key issues, potential legislation and the political dynamics that will shape the next few months — and the state’s future.

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about one of the fastest-growing illegal industries in the world.

When someone goes to prison, there is no 'orientation' for their family members and friends.

Odessa Settles comes from a family of musicians and activists. Recently retired after five decades as a neonatal nurse at Vanderbilt, she continues to perform with her group, The Settles Connection, for audiences across the country.

One Small Step is a scientifically backed initiative designed to foster deeper understanding between individuals. Across the country, nearly 6,000 people from diverse backgrounds and with different beliefs and perspectives have participated in One Small Step conversations.

Are you looking for a new job or considering starting a completely new career here in Middle Tennessee?

Our ever-present screens make it hard to meet people in person. This is where Folx Table comes in.

Political commentator and writer David French is well known in politically conservative and Christian circles. But in a time when misinformation and swagger sells, French expresses deeply personal and independent views, leaving him at odds with other conservatives and Christians.

What happens when you ask Nashvillians to creatively share their thoughts and ideas on what Nashville is and means to them?

Today we’re taking a moment to center and find some peace in the midst of the (often busy) holiday season!

We’re talking about Kwanzaa! This celebration of African American culture begins December 26 and ends January 1.

Introducing JD McPherson’s Seasonally Sensitive Holiday Extravaganzo, a throwback radio hour hosted by WNXP’s Jason Moon Wilkins and starring JD McPherson.

The statistics on loneliness are shocking. The U.S. Surgeon General released a report in 2023 about the importance of social interaction to curb the loneliness and isolation epidemic, which is having startling effects on our physical health.

This is our last live broadcast of the year. We are grateful that you take the time to be with us for an hour out of your day. Thank you.

Parking in Nashville can be a problem.

Right now, there are more than 8,000 young people in Tennessee’s foster care system – they face challenges which do not end once they are 18.

What happens when you ask Nashvillians to creatively share their thoughts and ideas on what Nashville is and means to them?

For those impacted by natural disasters, the holiday season will be very different this year.

In an age of digital communication, it's a remarkable achievement to keep friendships alive through handwritten, mailed letters. As a result, pen pal friendships can have unique and extraordinary stories worth telling.

We have more access to each other than ever before, and yet, familial estrangement, distracting technology and divisive politics are increasing feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

Three decades ago, musicians and WNXP Nashville Artist of the Month, Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, came to Nashville and fleshed out a very modern and influential take on an old-time country music sensibility.

Since 2021, the financial health of Tennessee State University has been in the news. In 2021 a group of state lawmakers found that in the previous 50 years the state had underfunded the school by about a half a billion dollars. Then, in 2023, a federal report said that the state underfunded the university by far more than the original estimate — about $2 billion dollars just between 1987 and 2020. This fall, TSU laid off more than 100 employees and just last month the administration announced further cost-saving measures to keep from running out of money by the end of the school year. Today we’re taking your calls and speaking with HBCU historian Dr. Crystal deGregory, Tennessean reporter Rachel Wegner and Andrea Williams, op-ed columnist and curator of the Black Tennessee Voices initiative for the The Tennessean. We’ll explore HBCU history, TSU’s funding, and what could be done to permanently fix this chronic situation.

With only four official floors, Downtown Presbyterian Church (Rep. John Lewis Way and 5th) used to be one of the tallest buildings in Nashville. Now dwarfed by skyscrapers, her history is way bigger than her small stature.

Just 90 minutes from Nashville, you can enjoy a concert in a cave.

Tucked away on a side-street in the rapidly-changing Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood sits the gallery space that artist Julia Martin has called home for more than a decade.

The wild turkey is the only species completely native to North America, and exists in any climate in the continent. But this weird-looking bird is more important than it looks.

Middle Tennessee has many active 12 Step recovery communities. In this episode, we talk with members from a few about their experiences and approaches to the upcoming holidays.

With a career spanning seven decades, singer, author, actor and speaker Pat Boone rivaled Elvis in the mid 20th century with his brand of wholesome teen popularity.

Every Thursday, we open up the phone lines because it's your turn to talk. And once a month, Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to take your calls.

Vulnerable communities are already being affected by climate change.