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

Ryan Henry Joins Ben Rodgers To Help Shine A Light On Addiction Recovery

In this powerful episode, Ben Rodgers sits down with Ryan Henry of the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency, whose own journey from addiction, incarceration, and homelessness to recovery has inspired a mission of helping others rebuild their lives. Ryan shares how his personal experiences led him to become a Certified…
24 Jul 9AM 33 min

Brad Taylor Joins Luke Ramey To Highlight The Ugly Mug Bar & Grill's Success

In this exciting episode of the Local Matters podcast, the owner of Ugly Mug Bar and Grill, Brad Taylor, reflects on the restaurant’s first year in business and the lessons he’s learned about entrepreneurship, leadership, and serving a small community. Brad discusses building the Spencer restaurant from the ground up,…
22 Jul 9AM 33 min

Creed Hardison Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss Cav Connect & Boys State

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Cookeville High School senior Creed Hardison to discuss his remarkable journey in student leadership, media production, and public service. Hardison shares his experience serving as executive producer of Cav Connect TV, being elected 2026 Tennessee Boys State Governor, and balancing academics, athletics,…
21 Jul 9AM 32 min

Erin Hoover Joins George Halford To Discuss Finding Meaning In The Moment

In this engaging episode, George Halford sits down with Tennessee Tech professor and Putnam County Poet Laureate Aaron Hoover to discuss the power of poetry, storytelling, and the arts in shaping both individuals and communities. Hoover reflects on the life experiences that inspired her writing, from growing up near Three…
20 Jul 9AM 32 min
All episodes