In this episode, Chattanooga's Mayor Tim Kelly shares his journey from business to politics and how he’s driving the city’s transformation through economic mobility, early childhood education, and public-private partnerships.

This week, we sit down with Erik Schelzig, editor for the Tennessee Journal and co-author of 'Welcome to Capitol Hill: 50 Years of Scandal in Tennessee Politics'. Erik shares captivating stories from his 20-year career covering the Tennessee State House, discusses the challenges facing the media industry, and provides insights into major political scandals in Tennessee's history.

In this episode, James Pond, CEO of the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation, shares why early literacy matters and how programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, book buses, and storybook trails are helping Tennessee kids thrive.

In this candid conversation, recorded as part of an exit interview, former U.S. Congressman Mark Green (TN-7) reflects on his years in public service and his decision to step away from Congress. No topic or question was off-limits, as Green shared his professional experiences, personal challenges, and hopes for Tennessee’s future.

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. LaTonya Mouzon, Executive Director of Arise2Read, a Memphis-based literacy nonprofit, joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of literacy in early education.

Elizabeth Sherrard and Elizabeth Atack are leaders at Nashville Public Library, working together to expand access to education, literacy, and community resources through innovative programs and donor support that uplift families across Davidson County.

Dr. Lisa Piercey is a physician, entrepreneur, and author who helps mid-career professionals find freedom through business ownership while investing in healthcare companies that strengthen rural communities.

Dr. Leah Melber is the President & CEO of Adventure Science Center in Nashville, where she leads efforts to advance equity, foster innovation, and expand community engagement through immersive STEM learning experiences that inspire curiosity across all ages.

Stacey Nickens is the Vice President of Corporate Communications and Marketing at the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, where she leads corporate messaging, media relations, crisis communications, and customer experience initiatives to strengthen engagement with travelers and the broader community.

Sheila Noone has served as the Communications Manager at the Museum of Science & History (MoSH) in Memphis for nearly five years, helping guide one of the city’s most historic institutions through a time of significant change and renewed purpose.

Thom Demas is the Vice President and Chief Husbandry & Exhibits Officer at the Tennessee Aquarium, where he leads animal care, conservation initiatives, and the creation of engaging exhibits that connect visitors to the natural world.

Jeremy Qualls is the Executive Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Williamson County Schools, leading naitonally recognized programs that prepare high school students for real-world business and career success.

Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home (TBCH) is a faith-based organization that provides residential and foster care services for children in need. Their mission is to offer safe, nurturing environments for children who cannot live with their families due to various circumstances.

Andy Holt serves as Deputy Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, overseeing operations, policy, and statewide programs supporting food safety, animal and plant health, consumer protection, forestry, and agricultural development.

Sean Phipps serves as Director of Marketing for Chattanooga Tourism Co., leading storytelling, media relations, and strategic communications that elevate Chattanooga’s national profile and drive tourism-driven economic impact.

Joel Sullivan serves as Regional Executive for the American Red Cross-Tennessee Region, overseeing operations, volunteer efforts, and disaster relief across 98 counties and eight local chapters.

Brad Turner serves as the first Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging, leading statewide programs serving 1.5 million Tennesseans with disabilities and agin needs.