DiscoverTennessee TodayFrom the Wrestling Ring to the Mayor’s Office | Episode 11
From the Wrestling Ring to the Mayor’s Office | Episode 11

From the Wrestling Ring to the Mayor’s Office | Episode 11

Update: 2025-10-27
Share

Description

You probably remember Glenn Jacobs as Kane, one of the most intimidating figures in WWE history. But now he’s known for something entirely different: running Knox County with the same grit, discipline, and unapologetic honesty that once filled arenas.


In this episode, we talk about how a farm kid from Missouri ended up shaping one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing counties. Glenn opens up about the lessons his parents taught him about work and integrity, what it’s really like managing growth in East Tennessee, and how a career in pro wrestling gave him insights into voters that most politicians miss.


Key Takeaways:



  • The economic strategy that's made Tennessee one of the best states for business

  • How Knox County is managing explosive growth (and preserving land) by updating 20-year-old zoning laws

  • What Republicans can learn from professional wrestling about communicating with voters

  • And of course, we talk about his WWE career, including which character he both loved and hated most


About Mayor Glenn Jacobs:


After a Hall of Fame career as a professional athlete and a few decades as a small business owner, Glenn Jacobs felt called to run for Mayor of Knox County and was overwhelmingly elected in 2018. Under his leadership, Knox County has added over 2,500 jobs and seen $217 million in capital investment. He remains committed to creating opportunities for everyone to thrive by prioritizing jobs, education, and recreation.



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!

Comments 
loading
00:00
00:00
1.0x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

From the Wrestling Ring to the Mayor’s Office | Episode 11

From the Wrestling Ring to the Mayor’s Office | Episode 11

Tennessee State Senator Bo Watson