We talk with Tennessee leaders—business owners, policy experts, educators, and residents—who champion the entrepreneurial spirit and transform once-small ideas into big impact.
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Spencer Osborne Podcasts
Ian McConnell hosts this brilliant show about being comfortable with being uncomfortable. Hear about how Ian and other guests deal with themselves through their art!
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Episode 62: Dr. Cynthia Osborne on Impacting Literacy Through Policy
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53:25In this episode, Dr. Cynthia Osborne, founder and executive director of the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Peabody College, discusses the importance of early childhood development and the impact of state policies on families and children. Dr. Osborne explains why the prenatal-to-3 period is crucial for brain development, highlights effective…
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Episode 61: Dr. LaTonya Mouzon on Improving Literacy Before 3rd Grade | Signature Required
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32:24Dr. LaTonya Mouzon, Executive Director of Arise2Read, a Memphis-based literacy nonprofit, joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of literacy in early education. Tune in today! Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 60: Elizabeth Sherrard and Elizabeth Atack on the Nashville Public Library | Signature Required
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44:28Join us this week as we dive into the Begin Bright initiative with Elizabeth Atack and Elizabeth Sherrard from the Nashville Public Library. Discover how this program is providing books, literacy resources, and crucial early education support to children and families across Davidson County. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the…
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Episode 59: Dr. Lisa Piercey on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition | Signature Required
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43:46In this episode, Dr. Lisa Piercey, a physician, healthcare entrepreneur, and the former Tennessee Commissioner of Health, shares her remarkable journey from a pediatrician to an influential healthcare leader and author of 'Natural Born Entrepreneurs.' Dr. Piercey discusses her passion for serving rural communities, the complexities of mid-career re…
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Episode 58: Dr. Leah Melber on Nashville's Adventure Science Center
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47:27This week, we sat down with Dr. Leah Melber, President & CEO of the Adventure Science Center. She shares her journey from studying zoology to leading one of Tennessee’s largest science centers, highlighting the exhibits, community outreach, and events that make it a Nashville favorite. A must-listen for parents, educators, and science enthusiasts a…
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Episode 57: Stacey Nickens on the Nashville International Airport
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37:27In this episode, Stacey Nickens, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Nashville International Airport (BNA), shares how one of the fastest-growing airports in the country is becoming a true reflection of Nashville’s culture. From live music and local dining to world-class art, discover how BNA is transforming travel into a uniquely Nashvil…
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Episode 56: Sheila Noone on Memphis Museum of Science and History
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19:51In this episode, Sheila Noone, Communications Manager at the Museum of Science and History (MoSH), shares exciting details about the museum's rich history and diverse exhibits. Learn about the transformation of the historic Pink Palace mansion, originally built by entrepreneur Clarence Saunders, into a vibrant museum. Sheila delves into the variety…
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Episode 55: Thom Demas on The Tennessee Aquarium | Signature Required
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42:54We’re kicking off Season 2 of Signature Required with a special episode featuring Thom Demas, Vice President and Chief Husbandry & Exhibits Officer at the Tennessee Aquarium. Thom shares his unexpected journey from managing auto parts stores to leading marine biology efforts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at animal care, conservation work, and …
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Episode 54: Reflecting on One Year of Signature Required with Spencer and Carli Patton
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42:51We’re taking a summer break and will return with new episodes on August 5th! Until then, we hope you enjoy this special anniversary episode where Spencer and Carli celebrate one year of Signature Required by reflecting on their journey and sharing highlights from 52 guests. From insightful conversations about the charm of Tennessee to heartfelt sto…
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Episode 53: Dr. Jeremy Qualls on Entrepreneurship In Public Education | Signature Required
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42:07This week, we spoke with Dr. Jeremy Qualls, the Executive Director for the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) and Career & Technical Programs at Williamson County Schools. Dr. Qualls shares the origin and growth of the EIC, an incubator space for student entrepreneurs. He discusses the unique educational approach of the EIC that emphasize…
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Episode 52: Tennessee Baptist Children's Homes | Signature Required
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36:07Carli sits down with Darren Andrus, Lydia Burton, and Reese Greenman from the Tennessee Baptist Children's Homes to discuss their work with children and families in crisis. The conversation sheds light on the unique aspects of residential group homes, the process of reunification with families, and the challenges and rewards of working with childre…
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Episode 51: Andy Holt on Tennessee Agriculture | Signature Required
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48:21This week, we are joined by the Deputy Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Andy Holt to discuss the vital role of agriculture and forestry in Tennessee. Holt shares insights from his personal journey, from working on a ranch in Wyoming, serving as a state legislator, and now promoting Tennessee agriculture worldwide. Learn abo…
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Episode 50: Sean Phipps on Visit Chattanooga | Signature Required
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36:07This week, Carli and I are joined by Sean Phipps, Director of Marketing for the Chattanooga Tourism Co., as we explore the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Sean shares the city's unique history, key attractions, and its incredible transformation from 'America's dirtiest city' to a National Park City. We discuss Chattanooga's burgeoning cultural and…
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Episode 49: Joel Sullivan on the American Red Cross In Tennessee | Signature Required
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42:00What does it take to lead disaster relief across 98 counties—and rally thousands of volunteers to answer the call? In this episode, I sit down with Joel Sullivan, Regional Executive of the American Red Cross Tennessee Region, to talk about the mission behind the organization, the power of preparedness, and the incredible stories of service that kee…
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Episode 48: Brad Turner on Disability and Aging In Tennessee | Signature Required
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37:00In this episode, Commissioner Brad Turner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging shares insights into his groundbreaking role. Brad discusses the integration of the Department of Disability and Aging, the importance of advocacy for people with disabilities, successful programs like MAPS and the Katie Beckett Fund, and innovative partne…
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Episode 47: Brittany Schaffer on Belmont's Role in Shaping the Music Industry | Signature Required
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35:06Brittany Schaffer, the Dean of the School for Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University shares her journey from high school debate team to Vanderbilt, and her transition from the legal field to academia. She discusses the unique educational opportunities at Belmont, such as the innovative 'Dolly U' program in partnership with Dolly Par…
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Episode 46: Justin Maierhofer on Energy and Economic Growth in TN | Signature Required
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36:27Justin Maierhofer, Vice President for the Northern Region of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), joins Spencer and Carli to delve into TVA's role in energy generation, environmental stewardship, and economic development. Justin explains TVA’s diverse energy mix, the importance of public power, and how the organization is working towards a resilie…
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Episode 45: Lindsey Norton on Hope House | Signature Required
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39:20This week, Carli sits down with Lindsey Norton, founder and executive director of Hope House, Tennessee's only home for teenage parents. She shares her journey from being a labor and delivery nurse to addressing the urgent need for housing and support for teen moms. Norton discusses the challenges, the vision for Hope House, and the unique trauma-i…
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Episode 42: Laura Scoggins & Jenny Haines Douglas on Nashville Real Estate | Signature Required
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34:18This episode features Laura Scoggins, a seasoned real estate agent with Benchmark Realty, and Jenny Haines Douglas, Senior Loan Officer at Movement Mortgage. Together, they break down the current state of the housing market in Middle Tennessee, offering expert strategies on navigating high prices and interest rates. Whether you're a first-time home…
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Episode 44: Rachel Guymon on The Tennessee Titans Stadium | Signature Required
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33:24Rachel Guymon, the Director of Special Events for the Tennessee Titans discusses the diverse range of events hosted at the Titans stadium. She highlights the extensive use of the stadium for corporate, private, and community events, totaling nearly 300 days of activity annually. Rachel also shares exciting details about the new stadium set to open …
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Episode 43: Sarah Mattson on Entrepreneurship In Chattanooga | Signature Required
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39:48Sarah Mattson, Director of Entrepreneurship for the City of Chattanooga, discusses the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Chattanooga. This conversation sheds light on Chattanooga’s unique blend of big city amenities with a small-town feel, driven by its exceptional digital and outdoor assets. Sarah elaborates on her role in fostering a supportiv…
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Episode 41: Becca Stevens on Thistle Farms | Signature Required
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33:17In this episode, Becca Stevens, an author, speaker, Episcopal priest, and social entrepreneur, discusses the profound impact of Thistle Farms—a global movement she founded to support women survivors of trafficking, addiction, and sexual exploitation. Becca shares the origins of Thistle Farms in Nashville, her personal journey of overcoming trauma, …
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Episode 40: Heather Middleton on Nashville Tourism | Signature Required
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54:46In this episode, we sit down with Heather Middleton, the Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Music City. Throughout the conversation, Heather shares insights into Nashville's booming tourism industry, touching upon the economic impact of visitors, including astonishing stats like the $29 million spent daily in Nashville. Heather sheds light on the ro…
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Episode 39: Rikki Harris on Mental Health In Tennessee | Signature Required
1:05:35
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1:05:35Rikki Harris, CEO of Tennessee Voices, joins the conversation to discuss the pressing mental health issues Tennesseans face and the state's unique preventive measures. The episode delves into Tennessee Voices' mission, emphasizing collaboration and community-focused care, while also exploring the challenges of nonprofit leadership. Harris shares in…
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Recap: Drew D'Agostino on Crafting an AI Workplace | Signature Required
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4:50Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Drew D'Agostino, Founder of Crystal. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 38: Drew D'Agostino on Crafting an AI Workplace | Signature Required
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54:04In this episode, Drew D'Agostino, founder and CEO of Crystal, dives deep into the realms of AI and Bitcoin. Intended for Tennesseans by Tennesseans, the discussion explores Drew's journey in the tech space, from creating a popular Chrome extension for LinkedIn to navigating ethical dilemmas in AI application. Drew also shares insights on leveraging…
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Recap: Brooks Herring on the Military to the Music Industry | Signature Required
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6:57Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Brooks Herring, singer-songwriter. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 37: Brooks Herring on the Military to the Music Industry | Signature Required
1:07:29
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1:07:29Brooks Herring, a Navy veteran and Nashville-based singer-songwriter, joins Spencer and Carli to share his journey from military service to the music scene. Growing up with a passion for music, Brooks discovered its power as a constant during his deployments, even mailing himself a guitar to Iraq. His time in the Navy and as a contractor in Afghani…
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Recap: Jane Allen on Problem-Solving and Leadership | Signature Required
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5:27Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Jane Allen, founder of Counsel on Call (now Legility) and former CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 36: Jane Allen on Problem-Solving and Leadership | Signature Required
1:11:10
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1:11:10In this episode, Jane Allen, founder of Counsel on Call (now Legility) and former CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, shares her inspiring journey from schoolteacher to legal industry trailblazer. Jane discusses the leap of faith that led her to law school, the founding of a company that pioneered flexible work options for lawyers, and the le…
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Recap: Adam Comer on Addiction Recovery in Tennessee | Signature Required
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7:12
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7:12Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Adam Comer, CEO of Spring2Life Recovery. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 35: Adam Comer on Addiction Recovery in Tennessee | Signature Required
1:06:41
1:06:41
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1:06:41Adam Comer, CEO of S2L Recovery and Executive Producer of The Forgotten Pandemic documentary, joins Spencer and Carli to discuss his journey from addiction to redemption. Adam shares his powerful testimony, highlighting the transformative power of faith-based recovery and the importance of community in overcoming addiction. He delves into the chall…
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Episode 34: Will Norton on Tennessee Symposium for Online Health and Safety | Signature Required
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47:12
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47:12Will Norton, Head of School at St. Paul Christian Academy, joins Spencer and Carli to discuss the challenges of parenting in the digital age and the impact of social media on adolescents. Drawing from his experience as an educator and organizer of the Tennessee Symposium for Online Safety and Health, Will shares insights on fostering digital citize…
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Recap: Melanie Shinbaum on Fixing the Early Childhood Education Crisis | Signature Required
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6:26Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Melanie Shinbaum, Executive Director of Nashville Early Childhood Education. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 33: Melanie Shinbaum on Fixing the Early Childhood Education Crisis | Signature Required
59:32
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59:32Melanie Shinbaum, Executive Director of the Nashville Early Education Coalition Fund, joins us to discuss the critical challenges facing early education in Tennessee. From systemic issues like low wages and limited accessibility to the economic and emotional toll on families, Melanie shares innovative solutions, including public-private partnership…
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Episode 32: Christine Rosen on Protecting Kids in a Digital Age | Signature Required
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29:09In this episode, we dive into one of the most pressing issues facing families today: the impact of social media on children. With mounting evidence showing the risks tied to online platforms, what can parents do to safeguard their kids while navigating the digital world? Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and expe…
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Episode 31: Kevin Menezes on Religious Persecution in India | Signature Required
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46:02
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46:02Kevin Menezes is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Every Nation India – a group that does church planting in India. With a commitment to seeing the gospel change the lives of the 1.4 billion people living in India, Menezes demonstrates the power of bravery and faith in his efforts to grow Christianity. While the challenges are significant, Menezes h…
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Recap: Josh Burch on Career Transitions for U.S. Special Forces | Signature Required
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6:39Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Josh Burch, Director of People at Fort Campell. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 30: Josh Burch on Career Transitions for U.S. Special Forces | Signature Required
1:06:14
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1:06:14Josh Burch, Director of People at the Honor Foundation and a retired U.S. Army Green Beret, joins Spencer and Carli to share his remarkable journey from rural Tennessee to serving 16 deployments in Special Operations. In this episode, Josh discusses how the Honor Foundation helps transitioning veterans find purpose and fulfillment in civilian life …
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Recap: Sam Davidson on Increasing Entrepreneur Success | Signature Required
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5:23Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Sam Davidson, CEO of The Nashville Entrepreneur Center. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 29: Sam Davidson on Increasing Entrepreneur Success | Signature Required
59:06
59:06
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59:06Sam Davidson, CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center (EC), joins Spencer and Carli to discuss how the EC empowers entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Sam shares insights into the EC’s mission to increase the success rate for startups through education, mentorship, and capital resources. He also reflects on his own entrepreneurial journey, the…
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Recap: Melissa Trevathan on Counseling Children Through Trauma | Signature Required
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6:06Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Melissa Trevathan, founder of Daystar Counseling Ministries. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 28: Melissa Trevathan on Counseling Children Through Trauma | Signature Required
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56:00Melissa Trevathan, founder of Daystar Counseling Ministries, joins Spencer and Carli to share her 40-year journey of bringing hope to children and families in Middle Tennessee. Founded in 1985, Daystar provides counseling, group therapy, and a summer camp in a uniquely welcoming environment. Melissa discusses rising anxiety in younger children, the…
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Recap: Chris and Elaine Whitney on Food Insecurity In Tennessee | Signature Required
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7:31Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Chris and Elaine Whitney. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 27: Chris and Elaine Whitney on Food Insecurity In Tennessee | Signature Required
1:07:58
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1:07:58Chris and Elaine Whitney, founders of One Generation Away, join Spencer and Carli to discuss their nonprofit food ministry that began out of the back of a Hyundai Santa Fe and now distributes millions of pounds of food annually. With a mission to bring hope, honor, and dignity through food, the Whitneys share their deeply personal journey from faci…
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Recap: Brian Straessle on Property Taxes and Housing Challenges Facing TN | Signature Required
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7:00Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Brian Straessle. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 26: Brian Straessle on Property Taxes and Housing Challenges Facing TN | Signature Required
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56:13
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56:13Spencer and Carli talk on Signature Required today with Brian Straessle, Executive Director of The Sycamore Institute, about property taxes, housing, and economic challenges facing Tennessee. Brian explains how Sycamore’s nonpartisan research helps Tennesseans understand the real impact of property taxes and highlights the connection between housin…
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Recap: Kelly Magill on Telling the Tennessee Maneuvers' Story | Signature Required
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3:35Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Kelly Magill. Send us a textBy Spencer Patton
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Episode 25: Kelly Magill on Telling the Tennessee Maneuvers' Story | Signature Required
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43:45Kelly Magill, an eighth-generation Tennessean and founder of a video production company, sits down with Spencer and Carli to share the remarkable story behind her upcoming documentary on the Tennessee maneuvers during World War II. Inspired by her grandmother’s memoirs, Kelly discusses how these forgotten military exercises helped prepare soldiers …
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Episode 24: Avik Roy on Solving National Problems with Bipartisan Solution | Signature Required
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45:50Spencer and Carli talk with Avik Roy, president of the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP), about market-driven economic solutions to challenges impacting Tennesseans. From Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation to Medicare Advantage for All, Avik explores how decentralized finance, healthcare reform, and housing policy can create n…
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