Explore every episode of the podcast Tennessee Today

Few Tennesseans have shaped the state like Lamar Alexander: Governor, U.S. Senator, Secretary of Education, President of the University of Tennessee. 

Unlike those who are born into it, Lamar had to forge his own path. In this episode, Lamar shares a behind-the-scenes look at the mentors who shaped him, the losses that redirected him, and the decisions that defined his career.

Along the way, you’ll hear the story of being sworn in as governor three days early to stop an outgoing administration from selling pardons, what he learned from Howard Baker about working across the aisle, and why he came to see himself as a "result achiever" rather than a politician.

Whether you work in government or just call Tennessee home, this is a rare chance to hear one of the state's most accomplished figures reflect on a lifetime of public service, and what he hopes for Tennessee's future.

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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 want a manager who keeps things running smoothly, or a founder who's willing to tear up the rulebook and rebuild from scratch?

Arthur Herman is the author of Founders Fire, which traces a single mindset across 250 years of American history. 

In this episode, Arthur and I discuss how real progress only happens when founders are willing to disrupt the status quo, and why this matters for Tennessee right now. We cover everything from our investment in quantum computing and nuclear technology to the upcoming legislative session and a new governor.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Tennessee's growth in quantum computing and nuclear technology fits squarely into Arthur's founder framework
• Why starting a business doesn't make you a founder, and why disruption doesn't either 
• What Andrew Jackson, Henry Clay, and Abraham Lincoln reveal about who actually gets remembered as a founder
• Why most people prefer managers day-to-day, but only remember founders fondly in hindsight

About the Guest:

Dr. Arthur Herman is a New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize finalist who brings 35 years of experience as a historian, defense and tech policy analyst, and national security official. He is the author of ten books, most recently Founders Fire: From 1776 to the Age of Trump, as well as the New York Times and Washington Post bestseller How the Scots Invented the Modern World; the Pulitzer Prize Finalist Gandhi and Churchill; and Freedom’s Forge: How American Business Produced Victory in World War II, which The Economist named one of the Best Books of 2012 and which has been on the recommended reading list of Secretaries of Defense, Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, key members of Congress, and across the defense industry, since its publication.

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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 is one of the most conservative, most Republican states in the nation. But that hasn't always been the case, and if Republican voters aren't careful, it won't be the case going forward.

With so many people moving to Tennessee, I think it's important we discuss who they are, what they believe, and what that means for our state's political future. I also break down how redistricting really works (not the political narrative you've heard, but the legal and historical reality), and why this election season matters more than most people realize.

Key Takeaways:

• Who is moving here from blue states (it's not who you think)
• What 150 years of political history tells us about what could happen next
• Why redistricting is more straightforward than the controversy around it suggests
• Why Republican voters can't afford to make the same mistake Democrats made

Times Free Press article: https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2026/may/26/california-is-chattanoogas-top-source-of-new-out/

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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!

Parks aren't just green spaces, they're economic engines. Hamilton County generates $1.8 billion in visitor spending annually, and outdoor recreation is a big reason why.

Matt Folz is the Director of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. In this episode, we’re discussing how Hamilton County thinks strategically about its parks by giving each one a unique identity, connecting them to broader trail systems, and making sure every investment generates a return for the community.

Key Takeaways:

• What's coming to Hamilton County: McDonald Farm State Park, a $15M riverfront revitalization, and improvements at Chester Frost
• Why preserving green space might be one of the best investments a community can make
• How Hamilton County is making parks accessible and safe for everyone, from motorized trail wheelchairs to ranger presence

About the Guest:

Matt Folz is the Director of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. He spent over 15 years managing operations in national and state parks before joining Hamilton County in 2021, first as a Park Superintendent and then as Director. He now oversees three regional parks and more than a dozen community parks across the county.

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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!

Roads and bridges aren't just something you use every day. They're how you measure whether your government is working. Good roads mean commerce flows, commutes are manageable, and your state feels like it has its act together.

Will Reid is the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Transportation. In this episode, we discuss how TDOT decides which projects get funded and what most people don't understand about congestion: TDOT doesn't control land use, so when your city approves a new subdivision or shopping center, that creates traffic on roads the state has to manage.

We also discuss specific Chattanooga projects like the Wilcox Bridge and I-59 around Moccasin Bend, why building more lanes doesn't always solve congestion, and what it means for taxpayers that Tennessee refuses to take on debt for roads.

About the Guest:

Will Reid was appointed Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Transportation by Governor Bill Lee in 2025. He's a Bartlett native who earned a civil engineering degree from the University of Memphis and worked in transportation consulting for over 15 years before joining TDOT in 2011. He oversees a statewide transportation system including highways, rail, airports, waterways, and transit.

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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!

Every election season, you see polls that contradict each other. One says Candidate A is ahead by 10 points, another says it's a dead heat, and a third says Candidate B is surging. So which one is right?

Randy Ellison is president of Targoz Market Research and has spent decades conducting polls for political campaigns and Fortune 500 companies. In this episode, we break down how polling actually works, what makes a poll credible (and what makes it unreliable), and how to be an informed consumer of polling data so you can make educated decisions as a voter.

Key Takeaways:

• Why different polls about the same race show completely different results
• Red flags that a poll is designed to manipulate rather than inform
• How AI is changing polling
• What to look for when you see poll results on the news or social media
• Why a poll that nailed the presidential race might be totally wrong about your local election
• How pollsters decide who to call, and why that matters more than you think

About the Guest:

Randy Ellison is the president of Targoz Market Research, based in Nashville. He holds a degree in economics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a graduate degree in practical political management from George Washington University. His firm works with both private sector clients and public affairs/political campaigns, allowing him to apply insights from both worlds. Randy has been conducting polling and market research for over two decades.

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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 does it take for a college freshman to start a conservative organization on a campus where liberal voices dominate?

Sophie Fuller is the chapter president of Turning Point USA at UT Chattanooga. She started the chapter as a freshman, knowing she’d be in the minority and might face backlash, but believing conservative students deserve to be heard just as much as anyone else.

In this episode, Sophie and I discuss what inspired her to take that risk, how she's built a student movement from scratch, and why she believes young people standing up for their beliefs is critical to changing the future. 

We also talk about free speech on college campuses, the growth of Turning Point USA after Charlie Kirk's assassination, and whether universities are doing enough to protect all voices.

About the Guest:

Sophie Fuller is a sophomore at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, studying criminal justice. She is the chapter president of Turning Point USA at UTC, which she founded as a freshman in March 2025.

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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!

Beth Kreppein is a former FBI agent with 20+ years of experience investigating gangs, human trafficking, terrorism, and violent crime. Now she’s the Chief of Police for two airports in Nashville. In this episode, Beth and I discuss what Tennesseans need to know about these threats, and why law enforcement collaboration is critical to keeping communities safe.

Beth explains how human trafficking works in Tennessee and why the I-75/I-40 corridor makes our region a hotspot, how gangs have evolved their communication methods, and the alarming rise of nihilistic violent extremism targeting kids on gaming platforms like Roblox and Minecraft. 

Key Takeaways:

• How law enforcement agencies coordinate on task forces, and why it matters
• The challenge of recruiting and retaining quality law enforcement officers
• The 764 group and nihilistic violent extremism: what parents need to know about online radicalization
• Labor trafficking vs. sex trafficking: understanding the different types happening in Tennessee
• Transitioning from federal to airport law enforcement: what's different and what stays the same

About the Guest: 

Beth Kreppein began her career as a prosecutor in Indiana before joining the FBI, where she served for over 20 years. Her FBI assignments included the Chicago Hispanic gang squad, international kidnapping and hostage cases, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the Violent Crime and Gang Task Force in Nashville. She is currently Chief of Police at Nashville International Airport (BNA) and John C. Tune Airport (JWN). Beth is also an adjunct professor at Belmont University, where she teaches Evolution of Domestic Terrorism.

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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!

America spends 18% of GDP on healthcare (more than any other developed nation) yet ranks second worst in outcomes. So what's broken?

In this episode, Dr. Patrick Bailey of the Goldwater Institute joins me to break down why these healthcare laws have cost Tennessee an estimated $700 million in healthcare services, the tension between expanding access and maintaining quality standards, and why he believes healthcare reform will require market-based solutions rather than government-run systems.

Key Topics

• How can states increase transparency and competition to lower healthcare costs?
• What's REALLY causing the physician shortage in Tennessee?
• How do Certificate of Need laws restrict healthcare competition in Tennessee?
• Should patients with rare diseases have the right to try experimental treatments?

About the Guest:

Dr. Patrick Bailey is the Director for Healthcare Policy at the Goldwater Institute. He practiced as a pediatric surgeon for nearly 20 years before transitioning to healthcare policy work, where he served for 10 years as Medical Director in the Division of Advocacy and Health Policy at the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Bailey holds a medical degree, a Master of Legal Studies from Arizona State University's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center. He's also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

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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 think politics is too big, too broken, or too controlled by insiders to make a real impact. Gail Greene proves otherwise.

In this episode, I'm joined by the HCGOP Chair to discuss the impact one person can truly have in politics. She shares the pivotal moment that activated her to get involved, the exact steps she took to become HCGOP Chair, and why protecting Republican principles matters more than being a "big tent."

By the end of this episode, we not only hope you'll feel called to action, but also understand HOW to get involved.

Learn more at hcgop.com 

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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!

When legislators aren't experts on a specific topic, they rely on think tanks for research and data to inform decisions. But how do they know which ones to trust?

In this episode, Justin Owen (CEO of the Beacon Center) explains how the think tanks maintain credibility through transparent polling methods, why the Beacon Center publishes results even when the data contradicts their own positions, and what separates advocacy organizations from pure research groups.

Justin also breaks down how he identifies which issues matter most to Tennesseans this session, from property taxes and school choice to certificate of need reform.

About the Guest:

Justin Owen is the President & CEO of the Beacon Center and Beacon Impact. He previously served as the Beacon Center’s director of policy and general counsel, and prior to joining Beacon, he served as a law clerk to the U.S. Attorney in Memphis and at the Pentagon as a legal intern to the General Counsel of the United States Navy. Justin received his J.D. from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis and obtained his undergraduate degree from Middle Tennessee State University.

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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!

Bills don't just randomly appear as laws. There's a process, and knowing it gives you power.

In this episode, I’m breaking down how the Tennessee legislative process actually works: when bills are introduced, how they move through committees, and when citizens have the most influence.

Then I’ll walk you through specific legislation this session, including property tax control, K-9 medical care, the Presidential Physical Fitness Test, and why education and healthcare always dominate the debate.

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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 see airports as just the place you catch a flight, but they’re so much more than that. They’re economic engines that create jobs, attract business investment, and directly impact regional growth.

In this episode, April Cameron, President and CEO of the Chattanooga Airport, joins me to break down how airports really work, the business side of running what's essentially a small city, and why they matter more to your community's economy than you think.

Key Takeaways:

• Why air service is a critical factor when companies consider relocating or expanding
• How businesses manage infrastructure updates when growth outpaces what they planned
• What goes into competing for new airlines and nonstop routes

About April Cameron:

April Cameron is the President and CEO of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority. Prior to becoming the CEO in 2023, April was the Vice President of Finance and Administration for nearly 26 years. 

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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!

House Speaker Cameron Sexton is one of the most powerful leaders in Tennessee government. In this episode, he explains how decisions are made in the legislature, including the reasoning behind controversial decisions and how legislative priorities are set in Tennessee.

We talk about why school choice isn't about public schools being "bad," how catastrophic health insurance could solve affordability, and what self-reliance means in modern Tennessee.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Tennessee's budget has doubled under Republicans, without excess spending or gimmicks
• What's broken in Tennessee's healthcare system and why he believes catastrophic plans could lower costs
• How he balances his role as Speaker against his role as a House member representing his district
• Why federal funding always comes with strings, and how Tennessee is reducing dependence

About Speaker Cameron Sexton:

Cameron Sexton is an eighth generation Tennessean. First elected to the House in 2010, he represents Crossville and the surrounding Cumberland Plateau region. As Speaker of the House, he’s one of the most influential decision-makers at the Capitol. Before entering public service, he worked in the private sector with experience in corporate turnarounds and business operations.

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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 State University is in the middle of a major transformation. President Dwayne Tucker shares his approach to repositioning the university for growth, navigating demographic evolution, and competing in Nashville's booming economy.

While neighboring universities like MTSU have tripled in enrollment over recent decades, TSU has remained relatively flat. Now, Dwayne Tucker is utilizing his background in corporate turnarounds to change the future of TSU.

We talk about achieving change without new funding, why he believes you can honor legacy while expanding demographics, and how student retention is already improving.

Key Takeaways:

• How questioning 'we've always done it this way' can unlock financial sustainability when done correctly
• Why TSU enrollment has remained flat while neighboring universities exploded in growth, and how he's addressing the issue
• What "long-term viability" means when Amazon, Oracle, and HCA are hiring in Nashville
• Why he believes TSU can honor its HBCU legacy while serving Nashville's growing, diverse economy

About Dwayne Tucker:

Dwayne Tucker is the ninth president of Tennessee State University. He has nearly 40 years of executive experience in the financial services and transportation industries, holding senior roles including CHRO, CAO, General Manager, and President at companies like First Data, Northwest Airlines, and Alliance Data. He has led large teams, managed over $500 million in P&L, and delivered strong, consistent growth. He recently retired as CEO of LEAD Public Schools and was selected as the TSU President this past summer after serving as Interim President since December 2024.

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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!

Higher education has a trust problem. People think it's too expensive, too disconnected from the real world, and not worth the debt. But Tennessee is proving that doesn't have to be true. 

In this episode, Randy Boyd (President of the UT System) joins me to discuss how his business background shapes the way he runs a $3.5 billion organization, why 54% of UT graduates now leave with zero debt, and how performance-based funding is changing the game for public universities.

Key Takeaways:

• The four revenue sources for public universities, and why understanding this matters for taxpayers and policymakers
• What drives Randy's passion for giving back and helping students graduate without debt
• The UT-Battelle partnership that manages Oak Ridge National Laboratory and extends research collaboration across all UT campuses
• How Tennessee's performance funding formula incentivizes universities based on student success, not just enrollment

About Randy Boyd:

Randy Boyd has served as the 26th president of the University of Tennessee System since 2018, overseeing campuses across the state, as well as the Institute of Agriculture and Public Service, and the UT-managed Oak Ridge National Laboratory. A first-generation college graduate, he earned his bachelor's degree from UT Knoxville and a master's degree from the University of Oklahoma. Before entering public service, he founded Radio Systems Corporation in 1991, growing it into a global company before its 2020 sale. His commitment to education access led him to help create tnAchieves, Tennessee Promise, and Drive to 55.

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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!

County government doesn't operate in a vacuum. The county commission, the city, and the state all have a role in shaping what happens on the ground.

In this episode, Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp joins me to discuss how he navigates competing priorities while leading a growing county, what it's like to make decisions that won't pay off for decades, and why he thinks government should be more willing to admit when something isn't working.

Key Takeaways:

• How Hamilton County balances growth and affordability for working families
• A behind-the-scenes look at the Enterprise South land swap and McDonald Farm projects
• His philosophy on pilot programs and why government needs more willingness to end things that aren't working

About Mayor Weston Wamp

Weston Wamp has served as Mayor of Hamilton County since 2022, becoming the youngest person elected to the role at age 34. Before entering public office, he co-founded Lamp Post Group, a Chattanooga-based venture incubator that provided capital and mentorship to emerging startups. He also founded the Millennial Debt Foundation, now known as In The Black, which raises awareness and engagement around reckless fiscal policy in Washington, DC. Learn more and follow his campaign at westonwamp.com.

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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!

How does our state’s judicial system actually work? 

In this episode, Justice Holly Kirby joins me to discuss the differences between state and federal court systems and why our state’s unique approach to selecting judges might be the "sweet spot." 

Justice Kirby also reflects on serving Tennessee's highest court: the difficult cases, the moments that stay with her, and what it means to serve with humility, purpose, and fairness.

Key Takeaways:

• How Justice Kirby’s mechanical engineering degree helped shape her approach to legal reasoning
• Why the Tennessee Supreme Court is the final word on state law (and when the U.S. Supreme Court can step in)
• Why lack of access to legal representation is a constitutional crisis
• How Tennessee's attorney general position is deliberately depoliticized through the court system

About Justice Holly Kirby:

Justice Holly M. Kirby earned both her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and J.D. from the University of Memphis. She became the first female partner at the law firm Burch, Porter & Johnson, and in 1995 made history as the first woman to serve on the Tennessee Court of Appeals. Appointed to the Supreme Court in 2014, she served as Chief Justice from 2023-2025, becoming the fourth woman in state history to hold that role.

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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 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.

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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!

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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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).

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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. 

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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

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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

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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?

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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

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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.