Signature Required

Before he became Anderson County’s sheriff, Russell Barker worked in debt collection and car sales. In this episode, he tells Spencer and Carli how a technique called “pop and pause” carried over into law enforcement, and why he still uses it today. They also dig into what a sheriff actually does, what it was like to go from a small task force to managing 183 employees, and how Anderson County’s work-release program helps inmates pay off court costs and rebuild their lives. Send us Fan Mail

Deputy Governor and TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter joins Spencer and Carli to pull back the curtain on how Tennessee competes for major investments, creates jobs, and prepares communities for what’s next. From rural development and workforce challenges to the growing demand for skilled trades, nuclear energy, automation, and quantum computing, Stuart shares what goes into building Tennessee’s economy for the long term. Send us Fan Mail

Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall joins Spencer and Carli to pull back the curtain on a part of the criminal justice system most people rarely see. From the difference between jails and prisons to rehabilitation, second chances, and the humanity of the people behind bars, Hall shares lessons from more than two decades as sheriff. He also tells the unbelievable story of how a convicted felon infiltrated Nashville’s new detention center and secretly hid weapons inside its walls before it ever ...

Marcus Meneese, founder and executive director of Stronger Than My Father, joins Spencer and Carli to talk about fatherhood, mentorship, discipline, and breaking generational cycles. Marcus shares how the example set by his own father inspired him to spend more than 20 years showing up for boys growing up without present fathers, and why he believes being there consistently can shape the men, husbands, and fathers they become. Send us Fan Mail

Kristin Allender, Executive Director of Tennessee Kids Belong and CEO of America’s Kids Belong, joins Spencer and Carli to share the stories behind the children still waiting for families and why everyone has a role to play. From foster families and churches to businesses and the “blueberry muffin man,” Kristin shows how ordinary people can help create a community where vulnerable children know they belong. Send us Fan Mail