Tennessee Today

Whether you're a UTC alum, a parent considering college options, or simply interested in where Tennessee higher education is headed, this conversation offers an honest look at the challenges and opportunities facing public universities today. Dr. Lori Bruce is just 90 days into her tenure as UTC’s Chancellor, and we discuss campus safety after a sophisticated swatting incident, the restructuring of student services under new state laws, and whether a four-year degree still delivers value in 2025. Key Takeaways - Why more than half of UTC students graduate with zero debt, and how that financial freedom shapes their career choices - What UTC's response to an AI-generated swatting incident revealed about campus security’s strengths and gaps - How student services are being restructured to ensure every student has access to the same support - Why UTC is building dual-admission programs with community colleges and pathways for working adults to complete their degrees About Dr. Lori Bruce Dr. Lori Mann Bruce became the 19th Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on June 30, 2025. Before joining UTC, Dr. Bruce was provost and vice president for academic affairs at Tennessee Technological University, where she led all academic operations for more than 10,000 students. Under her leadership, Tennessee Tech achieved a perfect academic program quality score from the state—the first in over 40 years—and launched multiple new academic programs to meet workforce needs.  Prior to TTU, Dr. Bruce served at Mississippi State University in several roles, including associate vice president for academic affairs, dean of the graduate school, and distinguished professor of electrical and computer engineering. Dr. Bruce has deep roots in Tennessee, having grown up on a working farm in Lincoln County. She earned her bachelor’s and Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech, along with additional graduate coursework in biomedical engineering. – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

If you’re serious about winning elections in Tennessee and beyond, you can’t afford to treat digital strategy as an afterthought. In this episode, Eric Wilson of Campaign Trend joins me to unpack the tech and tactics giving conservatives an edge at every level. From making the most of the “off season” to mastering digital battlegrounds, we talk about how technology should amplify (not replace!) the blocking and tackling of real campaigning. Key Takeaways: How campaigns can stretch limited resources with smarter tech Why relational organizing moves voters better than mass texts How to choose the right digital channels for your campaign What AI can (and can’t) do for campaign messaging About Eric Wilson Eric Wilson is a political technologist driving innovation and digital transformation. He’s a veteran of numerous campaigns, having led Marco Rubio’s digital team during his 2016 presidential campaign. Eric is Executive Director of the Center for Campaign Innovation, Editor of campaigntrend.com, and host of the Campaign Trend podcast. – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

Senator Marsha Blackburn has officially launched her campaign for governor of Tennessee. In this episode, we talk about what it will take to cement Tennessee’s conservative future for generations to come. We dig into President Trump’s America First agenda of sending power back to the states, the role of technology and energy in shaping Tennessee’s future, why rural healthcare and small nuclear reactors could be game-changers, and how she sees AI as both an opportunity for growth and a threat to personal privacy if left unchecked. Key Takeaways: Why returning power to the states is the foundation of Tennessee’s conservative future. How innovation in rural healthcare and small nuclear reactors can keep Tennessee at the forefront of energy and medical breakthroughs. The promise and peril of AI in Tennessee, and why building guardrails with the NO FAKES bill matters as new industries grow. Why she says her record and experience matter most, even as she acknowledges the milestone of potentially becoming Tennessee’s first woman governor. About Senator Marsha Blackburn: Marsha Blackburn entered public service in 1995 as executive director of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission, before winning election to the Tennessee State Senate in 1998. There, she led the grassroots campaign to defeat a proposed state income tax, earning her reputation as a champion for fiscal responsibility and government accountability. She went on to represent middle and west Tennessee in Congress, where she fought Planned Parenthood, defended Fort Campbell, and advanced pro-growth policies. In 2018, she became Tennessee’s first female U.S. senator, where she has continued fighting for President Trump’s America First agenda. Follow her campaign at MarshaBlackburn.com and on social media @VoteMarsha.   – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

Very few people have shaped modern conservatism like Newt Gingrich, and even fewer are still shaping it today. In our conversation, we explore the ideas behind his latest book, Trump’s Triumph, and how they connect to the larger conservative movement.  From the legacy of the Contract With America to the future of entrepreneurial government, we discuss what it takes to govern in today’s political climate, and why Gingrich believes leadership, innovation, and cultural engagement will define the next generation of conservative policy. Key Takeaways: How conservatism has evolved since the 1990s and where it might be headed next The difference between campaigning and governing (and why it matters now more than ever) Why Newt Gingrich believes “entrepreneurial government” is essential to America’s future The role of education, AI, and values in shaping the next generation of conservative leaders About the Guest: Newt Gingrich served as the 50th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 1999. His tenure fundamentally shaped Congress’s approach to balancing the budget, welfare reform, and strengthening national defense. In 2012, he was a Republican candidate for President of the United States. He’s written 44 books - including his latest, Trump’s Triumph, and he is a frequent commentator on national policy and global affairs as a Fox News contributor, as well as the podcast host of Newt’s World. If you’re interested in purchasing a copy of Trump’s Triumph or listening to Newt’s World, visit gingrich360.com – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

U.S. Congressman Chuck Fleischmann joins me to unpack how State and Federal governments don’t just work at different levels… they play by different rules.  We discuss how the federal budget process actually works, what it means for Tennesseans at the state and local levels, and clear up some of the most common misconceptions about how government really operates. Key Takeaways: The biggest structural differences between Congress and the Tennessee General Assembly Why most of the federal budget isn’t actually up for debate What committees, vetoes, and filibusters mean for real-world policy in Tennessee About the Guest: Congressman Fleishmann was elected in 2010 and is currently serving his eighth termin the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents Tennessee’s 3rd Congressional District, which includes Anderson, Bradley, Campbell, Hamilton, McMinn, Monroe, Morgan, Polk, Roane, and Scott counties. He serves on the Appropriations Committee and the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, as well as three subcommittees (Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies; Defense). – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

The 4th of July is more than fireworks and hotdogs. It’s an annual reminder of what it means to live in a free country, and the responsibility that comes with it. In this episode, I’m sharing personal reflections on freedom, service, and sacrifice, including how my father’s military experience shaped my values, civic involvement, and sense of duty.  Key Takeaways: What the Declaration of Independence represents in today’s political landscape How Chattanooga became a lasting symbol of military service through its Medal of Honor legacy The deeper responsibility that comes with the freedoms we enjoy Whether you're attending a parade or just spending time with family, this episode invites you to think about what it truly means to participate in a free society.  – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

You’ve read the headlines, and maybe even the full article, but what about the parts that don’t make it into print?  The media plays an important role in holding the government accountable, so in this episode I’m sitting down with political reporter Sarah Dolgin of the Chattanooga Times Free Press. We discuss how stories are shaped, what it’s like to be on the other side of the interview, and the ethical boundaries reporters must maintain even when they know their sources well. We also conduct a “mock” interview where Sarah asks me about Senate Bill 836, offering a real-time example of what happens behind the scenes before an article ever goes to print. Key Takeaways: What lawmakers wish reporters knew, and vice versa The tough editorial decisions that shape what makes it into a story, and what doesn’t Why a little tension between media and government is actually a good thing for democracy – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

Tennessee's governmental structure gives the legislature remarkable authority, including the ability to override a governor's veto with just a simple majority vote. In this episode, I’m breaking down how legislative sessions are structured (and why), explaining the unique balance of power in Tennessee's General Assembly, and highlighting the key issues we're tackling in the current legislative session. Key Takeaways: How the Tennessee General Assembly is structured, and why Senate votes carry more weight Why citizens can most effectively engage at the committee level, before a bill hits the Senate floor Why the current legislative priorities are immigration, education, public safety, and the state budget -- Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

What happens when state policies meet local implementation? In this episode, I'm joined by Chairman of the County Commission in Hamilton County, Jeff Eversole. Together we explore how counties navigate state mandates, budget constraints, and technology gaps, which create challenges for constituents and officials alike. Key Takeaways: The reality of county budget allocation and the balancing act between mandatory services like schools, and infrastructure needs The interesting relationship between county commissions and school boards, especially when budget needs increase How county governments prepare for uncertainty when state and federal policies shift The complex policy debate around preserving Tennessee's farmland: Should the government purchase land or create incentives for farmers to stay in business? – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what's happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You'll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

Most people pay attention to politics at the federal and local levels, but state government often has an even bigger impact on your daily life. In this first episode of Tennessee Today, I’m sharing my reasons for starting this podcast, the journey that led me from physical therapy to public service, and why I believe having an understanding state government is crucial for every Tennessean. Key Takeaways: The important role state government plays in your daily life How my experience in healthcare shapes my approach to politics and problem-solving What you can expect from future episodes – Tennessee Today is your inside look at state government: what’s happening, why it matters, and how it affects you in your daily life. I break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You’ll get the information you need straight from the source, so you can stay informed, engaged, and empowered! Share your questions for future episodes by emailing info@bofortn.com!

Do you ever feel like state politics are hard to follow? Do you wish you could hear directly from the people making the decisions? Do you really know what your elected officials are doing, the policies they're pushing, and how those choices impact your community and your daily life? I believe every Tennessean should have a clear, straightforward understanding of the policies shaping our state. For over 18 years, I've served in the Tennessee Senate, working to bring transparency, accountability, smart decision making to the forefront of policy. Now I'm inviting you to join the conversation. Tennessee Today is a podcast where I share an inside look at state government. What's happening, why it matters, how it affects you in your daily life. No political spin here, no confusing jargon, just real discussions about the issues shaping our state. In each episode, I'll break down key legislative topics, have important discussions with special guests, share my experiences in the State Senate, and give you a firsthand perspective on how policies come to life. You'll get the information you need straight from the source so you can stay informed, engaged and empowered. It's really important for me to hear from you. If you have any questions, comments or topics you'd like me to cover, email me at info@bofortn.com and be sure to include your name and where you live.