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.

Latest Episodes

Education and Literacy Kylie Larson Education and Literacy Kylie Larson

Will Norton on the TN Symposium for Online Safety

Will 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 citizenship, setting guardrails for smartphone use, and promoting community-wide solutions. He also reflects on his military background and passion for equipping families to navigate the minefields of the digital landscape. Tune in for practical advice and hope in addressing one of today’s most pressing parenting challenges.

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Education and Literacy Kylie Larson Education and Literacy Kylie Larson

Steven Gentile On Higher Education In TN

Steven Gentile is the Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and teaches education policy at Vanderbilt University. THEC plays a crucial role in advocating for an increase in the number of Tennesseans who obtain postsecondary credentials. In this episode, Stephen discusses the decision of whether to attend college, the benefits of choosing a technical degree, financial aid and grants, and THEC's future plans.

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Education and Literacy Kylie Larson Education and Literacy Kylie Larson

Diana Beach Batarseh On Diverse, Private Education

Diana Beach Batarseh is an accomplished educator, trainer, and presenter with extensive experience working with students from preschool to high school. Currently, she serves as the Head of School at King's Academy, where she champions a Christ-centered classical education in line with the academy's values. In this episode, Diana discusses the essence of King's Academy, highlighting its diversity, financial assistance, and strategies for fostering the growth of both the school and its community.

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John Staubitz on Autism in TN Schools

John Staubitz, Director of Behavior Analysis at TRIAD, Vanderbilt University, has spent decades helping children with autism and behavior disorders. In a discussion with Spencer and Annalee, he explores how educators and parents can support autistic children to be happy and engaged at home and school. Discover the essentials and take pride in TRIAD’s leading role in providing top-notch strategies for Tennesseans.

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Education and Literacy Kylie Larson Education and Literacy Kylie Larson

Dr. Maria Cronley on College Education

Dr. Maria Cronley, Provost of Austin Peay State University, talks with Spencer and Annalee about higher education in America. She discusses the university's efforts to provide flexibility for students, particularly military-affiliated students. Dr. Cronley emphasizes the value of a college education, warns of the upcoming enrollment decline in US institutions, and aims for a better-educated Tennessee.

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Education and Literacy Kylie Larson Education and Literacy Kylie Larson

Tommy Rhodes on Summer Camps

Tommy Rhodes, founder of Barefoot Republic summer camp, joins us to talk about his mission to build a summer camp population that reflects the diversity of heaven. This Christian camp aims to foster shared experiences among kids of diverse backgrounds, financial situations, races, and ethnicities.

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