News Talk 94.1 Local Matters

Doug Stafford Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss The Importance Of Decisions In Local Government

Loading player...
Ben Rodgers sits down with Jackson County Commissioner Doug Stafford, a lifelong local whose roots run deep in Gainesboro. Doug shares his journey from working city trash trucks and spending two decades at Nielsen to serving on the county commission, reflecting on a lifetime of volunteerism that began at just 15 years old. He opens up about the tough realities of local government, including voting for a recent tax increase, how property tax rates are determined, and the impact those decisions have on growth in Jackson County. The conversation also highlights regional cooperation in the Upper Cumberland, Jackson County’s beloved tourist attractions, and Doug’s work with Friends of Cordell Hull Lake—an organization that’s removed nearly 15 tons of trash and continues to reinvest every dollar back into protecting the lake and supporting local tourism.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today!
6 Feb 9AM English United States Society & Culture · Education

Other recent episodes

Beth Peek Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Her Journey Into Education

Sometimes the path you’re meant for finds you when you least expect it. Jeremy Wendt sits down with Beth Peek, principal of Northfield Elementary School, to talk about her 27-year journey in education—from starting in accounting and nursing to discovering her true passion in the classroom. Inspired by generations of…
14 Apr 9AM 33 min

Charles Jarrett Joins George Halford To Discuss A Life Of Service & Love

Charles Jarrett’s life has been defined by perseverance, love, and giving back. From overcoming a childhood injury in Chattanooga to becoming a physician, Jarrett built a career on dedication and service. Later, as a devoted husband and caregiver to his wife, Rodema, he turned their story into a legacy. Through…
13 Apr 9AM 32 min

Jesse Brooks Joins Ben Rodgers To Discuss What It Takes To Be A Police Chief

From highway patrol to leading the force, Crossville Police Chief Jesse Brooks joins Ben Rodgers to share a powerful journey shaped by purpose, faith, and service. With 38 years on the road and now at the helm, Brooks opens up about leadership, lowering crime, and building a police department that…
10 Apr 9AM 32 min

Dr. Toney Hudson Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Share Some Lifestyle Health Changes

What does 50 years in primary care teach you about how we’re really living? In this insightful conversation, a longtime Cookeville physician reflects on decades of experience—from his training at the University of Tennessee in Memphis to building a practice rooted in community care. He shares why “a typical day…
9 Apr 9AM 34 min

Bill Davis Joins Tiffany Anton To Discuss Custom Care Lawns & Tree

From mowing lawns to moving mountains— Custom Care & Lawns has been built with heart and hard work. Tiffany sits down with Bill Davis of Custom Care Lawn & Tree, a company that’s grown from simple lawn care into a full-service operation over the past 20 years. Bill shares how…
8 Apr 9AM 32 min
All episodes