Explore every episode of the podcast You Matter Nashville

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Allison Gamble from Needs of Our Kids (NOOK), a nonprofit organization in Franklin, Tennessee, dedicated to providing immediate, essential support to students in our local schools. We learned how NOOK’s all-volunteer team steps in to offer educational resources, clothing, hygiene items, and even assist with fees for school activities. By ensuring every child has what they need—whether it’s the right pair of shoes or access to nutritious snacks—NOOK helps maintain a sense of dignity, focus, and confidence for students in Middle Tennessee.

As we listened to Allison’s inspiring stories, we realized that small contributions truly make a big impact. From supplying simple necessities like deodorant to bridging gaps in after-school care, NOOK’s community support and donation opportunities enable every child to participate fully in school life. We also appreciated learning about how they partner with other local nonprofit organizations and encourage volunteer opportunities that help strengthen the fabric of our Nashville podcast community.

Our conversation with Allison reflects the heart of You Matter Nashville—promoting kindness, inclusivity, and generosity. Through our work as real estate professionals, we’re committed to making a difference and connecting others with causes like NOOK that uplift our neighbors. We hope this episode encourages you to consider how you might contribute, either through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about this powerful mission.

Takeaways

• Nook addresses the immediate needs of children in schools.
• 40% of kids in Franklin rely on free or reduced lunch.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in fulfilling requests.
• Community support is essential for Nook's operations.
• Small donations can have a significant impact.
• Nook collaborates with other organizations for broader support.
• Immediate solutions help children stay focused in school.
• Feedback from families highlights the importance of dignity.
• Nook is a 501c3 organization, allowing for tax-deductible donations.
• The podcast aims to connect listeners with local heroes and initiatives.

NOOK
https://needsofourkids.com/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this episode of You Matter Nashville, we are excited to sit down with Erika Gorman, founder of the Three Strands Family Center in Columbia, Tennessee. Erika shares her incredible journey of moving from California to Columbia and her heart for creating a nonprofit that supports new and expectant families. The Three Strands Family Center offers classes, workshops, and resources that help families navigate pregnancy, birth, and early childhood while fostering a strong sense of community.

We talk with Erika about the challenges she faced as a new mom, her passion for building a supportive environment for families in Middle Tennessee, and how Three Strands is bridging gaps in local maternal and family care. Erika shares how her organization aims to make these services accessible to all families, regardless of income, through scholarships and partnerships with local businesses.

Join us as we dive into the importance of community, how Three Strands is already making an impact in Columbia, and what Erika envisions for its future. Plus, she offers a special discount code for our You Matter Nashville listeners to try a class for free!

If you’re looking for ways to support this amazing cause or want to learn more, visit threestandsfamily.org. And as always, remember, You Matter, Nashville!

Takeaways

• Three Strands Family Center aims to support new and expectant families.
• Community support is crucial during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Accessible resources for families are lacking in Columbia, TN.
• Erika's journey to Tennessee was driven by family values.
• The nonprofit model focuses on collaboration with local businesses.
• Classes offered include prenatal yoga, postpartum support, and parenting workshops.
• The importance of a supportive community for new parents cannot be overstated.
• Erika's personal experiences shaped her vision for the nonprofit.
• The launch party was a way to engage the community and raise awareness.
• Future plans include expanding services and creating a physical space for the nonprofit.

Three Strands Family
https://www.threestrandsfamily.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In our very first episode of You Matter Nashville, we dive deep into the heart and soul of our community. I'm Jason Hoover, and I'm honored to co-host this podcast alongside my wife, Mindy Hoover. Together, we're on a mission to share the inspiring stories of individuals who are making a positive impact in Middle Tennessee.

This episode is special as we kick things off with an incredible guest, Tyler Mount. Tyler is a branding expert and creative genius who has helped shape our real estate business and inspired us to start this podcast. From producing Broadway shows to building a creative empire, Tyler shares how his passion for storytelling and helping others has led to a career filled with remarkable success, including Tony Awards and a Grammy. We also talk about our "You Matter" movement, which began during a life-changing moment at a Ryan Serhant training event. We wanted to find a way to express our deep care for our clients and community, and "You Matter" became our North Star, guiding both our business and this podcast.

In this episode, we share our personal stories, dive into our journey as real estate professionals, and talk about the core values that drive us. You’ll also hear Mindy’s passion for community service through her nonprofit, Love The Dress TN, which has been helping young women for over 15 years.

Our goal with You Matter Nashville is to spotlight the unsung heroes and businesses that make this city special. We believe that everyone has a purpose and that small acts of kindness can echo throughout the community. If you're inspired by today’s episode, we’d love for you to follow along, share this with others, and maybe even leave us a five-star review. Remember, Nashville, you matter more than you know!

Takeaways

• The You Matter Nashville podcast celebrates inspiring individuals and unsung heroes in the Middle Tennessee community.
• The concept of 'You Matter' represents the desire for everyone to feel loved and know that their time is not wasted.
• The podcast aims to shine a light on people and businesses that are making a positive impact in the community.
• Tyler Mount, a real estate branding expert and owner of Henry Street Creative, is the first guest on the podcast.

Special Guest
Tyler Mount
https://tylergmount.com/
https://henrystreetcreative.com/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

Welcome to another episode of the You Matter Nashville podcast! On this episode, we’re excited to bring you a conversation with Amy Saffell, Executive Director of ABLE Youth.

ABLE Youth is an amazing organization that empowers kids with physical disabilities to gain independence and confidence through adaptive sports. We dive deep into Amy’s personal journey, her passion for making a difference, and how ABLE Youth is changing lives through programs like wheelchair basketball, independence camps, and more.

Join us as we explore how sports and community can come together to create lasting impact and resilience in Middle Tennessee. Remember, every story we share is a celebration of you — because you matter!

Takeaways

• ABLE Youth helps kids with physical disabilities learn independence through adaptive sports
• Sports can be integrated with therapy to make it more engaging and effective for kids with disabilities
• Participating in road races and traveling to compete against other kids with disabilities can be empowering and help build social connections
• Providing specialized sports equipment for kids with disabilities can be expensive, and ABLE Youth relies on donations and grants
• Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting ABLE Youth's programs and activities
• Amy Saffell's personal experiences with spina bifida and adaptive sports inspired her to join ABLE Youth.
• Peer teaching is an important aspect of their programs, as older kids who have mastered certain skills can teach younger kids.
• The organization focuses on changing perceptions of disability and promoting inclusivity.
• Children with disabilities have the power to change the world by showcasing their abilities and living life to the fullest.

ABLE Youth
https://www.ableyouth.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this episode of "You Matter Nashville," we have a heartfelt conversation with Kara Edwards, the founder of the Starfish Infertility Foundation. Kara opens up about her own challenging journey with infertility, sharing the emotional and financial hurdles she and her husband faced, including the lack of insurance coverage for treatments. These experiences inspired her to create the foundation, which provides financial assistance and emotional support to couples struggling with infertility.

Kara explains the mission of her foundation: to help alleviate the burdens of infertility by offering grants, and educational resources, and fostering a compassionate community. She highlights the importance of raising awareness and advocating for legislative changes to ensure better insurance coverage for infertility treatments. Throughout our conversation, she shares touching stories of families who have received grants from her foundation and have successfully welcomed children into their lives.

We talk about the significance of community support, empathy, and the power of advocacy in making a positive impact. Kara’s dedication to helping others on their journey to parenthood is truly inspiring, and her story serves as a reminder to all of us to support and get involved in meaningful causes.

Takeaways

• The Starfish Infertility Foundation provides grants and support to couples going through infertility who cannot afford treatment.
• Researching fertility clinics is crucial to ensure the best chances of success.
• Infertility treatments can be financially burdensome, and better insurance coverage is needed.
• Many people only need simple fixes, such as medication, to address their infertility.
• The foundation is named after the starfish story, emphasizing the impact of helping even just one person. The Starfish Infertility Foundation provides support and financial assistance to individuals and couples navigating the challenges of infertility.
• The foundation aims to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens of infertility by funding treatments, offering educational resources, and fostering a compassionate community.
• The foundation obtained its 501C3 status after about 10 months of fighting to run the foundation independently and ensure transparency with donors' money.
• The foundation offers major grants, up to $10,000, and mini-grants, which allow donors to connect with the couples they are supporting.
• The foundation has been involved in advocating for legislation to improve insurance coverage for infertility treatments and has successfully shown legislators the importance of coverage and the minimal impact it would have on insurance costs.
• People are encouraged to continue writing to their legislators to raise awareness and support for infertility issues.

Starfish Infertility Foundation
https://starfishinfertilityfoundation.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this episode of the You Matter Nashville podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Melissa Smith, the founder and executive director of Backlight Productions. Melissa shared the inspiring story of how Backlight Productions began in the upstairs of a thrift store in Franklin, Tennessee. What started as a small show for a group of friends has blossomed into a full arts program that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges, offering classes in theater, music, and dance for students of all ages.

Melissa talked about her unexpected journey into this work, explaining how she merged her love for the arts with a passion for creating opportunities for people with disabilities. She shared how Backlight Productions has grown into a thriving organization, with productions that allow every performer, regardless of ability, to take the spotlight. One of their most memorable productions was Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, which featured 86 performers, including guest appearances from Broadway star Laura Osnes.

Throughout our conversation, Melissa emphasized the power of theater to change lives, create strong bonds, and bring a sense of purpose to everyone involved. She also introduced her children's book series, Friends of Franklin County, which aims to teach kids about disabilities and encourage inclusivity through relatable stories.

Listening to Melissa, we were deeply moved by the incredible impact Backlight Productions has on the lives of its students, volunteers, and the wider community. The way it fosters acceptance, creativity, and personal growth is truly remarkable. We're so grateful for Melissa's dedication and the positive ripple effect she's creating in our community, reinforcing what we believe—everyone matters.

Takeaways

• Backlight Productions started in the upstairs of a thrift store and has grown into a full arts program serving individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges.
• The program offers classes in theater, music, dance, and playwriting, providing a space for individuals to explore their passions and talents.
• Backlight Productions has had a powerful impact on the community, creating a sense of belonging and acceptance for its students.
• The program relies on donations and volunteers to support its productions and continue making a difference in the lives of its participants.

Backlight Productions
https://backlightproductions.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

Kara Puckett (along with husband Justin Puckett), founder of Nashville Foster Love Closet, shares her journey of starting the nonprofit organization and the impact it has on foster families and children in Middle Tennessee. The organization provides resources and material goods for foster families, including clothes, beds, and other essential items.

Kara emphasizes the importance of ensuring that foster families have the necessary resources to say yes to placements and not turn them away due to financial constraints. She also discusses the various events and programs the organization organizes, such as Girls' Day Out and respite nights, to support foster families and provide a sense of community.


Takeaways

• Nashville Foster Love Closet provides resources and material goods for foster families and children in Middle Tennessee.
• The organization ensures that foster families have the necessary resources to say yes to placements and not turn them away due to financial constraints.
• Events like Girls' Day Out and respite nights provide support and a sense of community for foster families.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in sorting and organizing donations, providing meals, and helping with events.
• Monetary donations are needed to help the organization expand and have a physical space.

Special Guest
Kara Puckett

Organization
Nashville Foster Love Closet

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

We had the pleasure of interviewing Kayla Torti, the founder of Franklin Challengers, on our You Matter Nashville podcast. Franklin Challengers is a special needs baseball team in Franklin, Tennessee, that provides opportunities for kids ages 5-18 with physical or intellectual disabilities to play baseball.

Kayla shared with us how the organization focuses on inclusivity and creating a joyful and fun environment for the players. Volunteers, known as buddies, are paired with players to assist and encourage them during the games. It's heartwarming to know that the league is free for families to participate, thanks to the support of Franklin Baseball Club and other sponsors.

Franklin Challengers is more than just a baseball league; it's a supportive community for children with special needs. As a dedicated mother and advocate for special needs children, Kayla relies on volunteers and donations to provide equipment and organize end-of-season parties and award ceremonies.

In addition to running the league, Kayla works full-time at Tucker's House, a nonprofit that facilitates home modifications for families with special needs children. Her passion for supporting and advocating for special needs families is truly inspiring, and we believe, like her, that more resources and support are needed in this area.


Key Takeaways

• Franklin Challengers is a special needs baseball team in Franklin, Tennessee that provides opportunities for kids with disabilities to play baseball.
• The league focuses on inclusivity and creating a joyful and fun environment for the players.
• Volunteers, known as buddies, are paired with players to assist and encourage them during the games.
• The league is free for families to participate, thanks to the support of Franklin Baseball Club and other sponsors. Franklin Challengers is a baseball league in Franklin, Tennessee, that provides an inclusive and supportive environment for children with special needs to play baseball.
• The league relies on volunteers and donations to provide equipment and organize end-of-season parties and award ceremonies.
• Kayla, the league organizer, also works full-time at Tucker's House, a nonprofit that facilitates home modifications for families with special needs children.
• Kayla is passionate about supporting and advocating for special needs families and believes that more resources and support are needed in this area.

Special Guest
Kayla Torti

Organization
Franklin Challengers

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this heartfelt episode of You Matter Nashville, Jason and Mindy Hoover spotlight the incredible work of Project Healing Waters, a national organization dedicated to helping military veterans heal through the therapeutic art of fly fishing. The episode features a conversation with special guest Marilyn Rogan, a longtime volunteer and leader in the program.

Marilyn shares her personal story of growing up in a charitable community and how it shaped her lifelong commitment to helping others. She explains how Project Healing Waters supports veterans, not just with fishing trips, but with a holistic approach that fosters mental and emotional healing. Marilyn's powerful testimony includes stories of veterans overcoming PTSD, depression, and even suicidal thoughts through the program’s therapeutic outings and retreats.

From fly-fishing on local rivers in Tennessee to national retreats in Montana and Michigan, the program offers veterans the chance to rebuild their lives, connect with others, and find peace in nature. Marilyn also discusses the vital support from the community, including volunteers and donors, which keeps the program thriving. The episode underscores the importance of mental health, community, and giving back to those who have sacrificed for our country.

If you're interested in learning more or getting involved with Project Healing Waters, Marilyn encourages listeners to volunteer or donate, emphasizing that every contribution helps change lives.

Takeaways

• Project Healing Waters is an organization that helps veterans and active military personnel through fly fishing and outdoor activities.
• The program provides healing opportunities for veterans dealing with mental health issues, including PTSD and military sexual trauma.
• Volunteers and donations are crucial for the success of Project Healing Waters.
• The organization offers local outings and national trips to lodges where veterans can fish and connect with others who have similar experiences.
• The community plays a significant role in supporting Project Healing Waters through donations of food, lodging, and other resources.

Special Guest
Marilyn Rogan

Organization
https://projecthealingwaters.org

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this episode of the You Matter Nashville podcast, we interview Raquel Babb and Connie Gulley from Love the Dress TN, the nonprofit organization we’re deeply passionate about that provides prom dresses to girls who otherwise wouldn't be able to afford them. We explore the history of Love the Dress, the incredible impact it’s had on the community, and the challenges we've faced in organizing such a meaningful event.

The conversation is filled with heartwarming stories of girls discovering their dream dresses and the immense gratitude their families express. We emphasize the ongoing need for more volunteers and donations to sustain the organization’s efforts.

We discuss the intricate process of collecting and distributing dresses, highlighting just how important it is to have a wide range of sizes and styles available. Our conversation also touches on the broader impact this project has on the girls who receive the dresses. We make sure to underscore the need for various forms of donations, including monetary contributions and items like jewelry and shoes.

We also share our motivation for continuing this work, which includes witnessing the joy and excitement of these girls and knowing that we’re making a positive difference in their lives. Additionally, we outline our vision for the future, including expanding to a larger venue and adding more event days so we can reach even more girls in need.

Takeaways

• Love the Dress is a nonprofit organization that provides prom dresses to girls who cannot afford them.
• The organization has been serving the Middle Tennessee community for over 14 years and has grown from 100 dresses in the first year to over 4,500 dresses in recent years.
• The founders and volunteers of Love the Dress are dedicated to creating a positive and empowering experience for the girls who come to the event.
• The organization relies on the support of volunteers and donations to continue its mission of helping girls feel beautiful and confident on their special occasions. 
• The project relies on donations of dresses, jewelry, shoes, and monetary contributions.
• Having a variety of sizes and styles is important to accommodate the different preferences and needs of the girls.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in helping the girls find their dresses and making them feel loved and cherished.
• The project has a significant impact on the girls, creating lifetime memories and boosting their self-esteem.
• In the future, the project aims to expand to a larger venue and add more days to accommodate the growing number of girls in need.

Special Guests
Raquel Babb
Connie Gulley

Love The Dress TN
https://lovethedresstn.com

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/

In this episode of You Matter Nashville, Mindy and I had the privilege of interviewing our dear friend, Blandina, someone who has become like family to us through our shared experiences in music, theater, and community service. Blandina opened up about her incredible journey of giving back to the community and how her work has evolved over the years. She talked about her late son, Raymond, who battled cancer with such grace and left behind a powerful legacy through the Ray of Light Foundation, which provides support to families dealing with serious illnesses, particularly in the palliative care department at Vanderbilt.

Blandina also touched on her various businesses, including Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties, where little girls can experience magical moments with princesses, and The Franklin Playhouse, her newest venture that brings theater to families in Franklin. Through these projects, she continues to foster creativity and connection in the community. What stood out most in our conversation was her deep belief in the power of community and how important it is to not just live in a place, but to be an active part of making it better.

She shared how Raymond’s legacy continues to inspire her and others, and how her various initiatives are all tied to one simple mission: to spread light and make a positive impact. Blandina’s story is a beautiful reminder that when we serve others, we’re also enriching our own lives in ways we may never have expected.

Takeaways

• Being an active member of the community and making a difference is important.
• Supporting hospitals and initiatives like the Shine Your Light vocal competition can have a positive impact.
• Providing snacks and gifts to hospitals and senior citizens can bring joy and connection.
• Helping families with burial care is an important and often overlooked need.
• Collective impact is powerful, and even small contributions can make a difference.
• Giving back to the community brings personal joy and fulfillment. Community support is crucial in times of hardship and can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families.
• Initiatives like the Ray of Light Bereavement Program and the Franklin Playhouse provide valuable resources and support for those in need.
• Businesses like Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties offer unique and memorable experiences for children's parties.
• Being involved in the community and giving back can bring joy and fulfillment to individuals and create a positive impact.
• The power of friendship and support is evident in the strong bond between Jason, Mindy, Blandina, and their community.

Special Guest
Blandina Vergara-Cruz

Ray Of Light Foundation
https://www.rayoflighttn.com

Dreams Do Come True Princess Parties
https://www.dreamsdocometrueprincessparties.com

The Franklin Playhouse
https://www.thefranklinplayhouse.com

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville

The Hoover Team
https://www.thehooverteam.com/