College Town Talk
College Town Talk is an award-winning podcast from Tennessee Tech University in partnership
with the Cookeville-Putnam County Convention & Visitors Bureau available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Soundcloud and YouTube.
Each week, hosts Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout introduce listeners to Tech faculty,
staff and students – as well as successful Tech alumni, local business owners and
civic leaders – who are making a difference and living "Wings Up" in their community.
College Town Talk is a celebration of the people and places that make Cookeville Tennessee’s
College Town.
Catch up on the latest episodes below and email Tech’s Jonathan Frank at jonathanfrank@tntech.edu with podcast questions, feedback or suggestions.
Stream the Latest Episodes:
Episode 93: Abby Weeden
This week on College Town Talk, we sit down with Tennessee Tech alumna Abby Weeden, owner of Cookeville’s Edison Hills New & Old. Abby shares the story behind her popular vintage boutique, how her experience studying art at Tech’s Appalachian Center for Craft shaped her creative career, and how she got started as a professional photographer. She also discusses her work with Art Round Tennessee, a new song inspired by her business and more.
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» Episode 93 - Abby Weeden Transcript
Hey everyone, welcome to another episode of College Town Talk. I'm Jonathan Frank. And I'm Shan Stout. Well, Shan, it's, uh, first of all, it's great to see you. It's been a little while. We've, uh, we were both traveling, uh, busy schedules with the end of the summer, the start of the semester, and, uh, now we're back together in the studio. I'm feeling a little nostalgic because this is like really the start of the fourth academic year that we've been doing this. We started, uh, in the, the beginning of the fall, 2023 semester, interviewed Dr. Rob and, uh, then Mayor Wheaton. Please nobody, go back and listen to it, , because I didn't know what I was, what I was doing. It was like nails on a chalkboard listening to that . Oh, no. I mean, I think it's fun to go back and see the journey where you came from, , but it is a little painful, Uh, so I just want to hit a couple of these highlights. First of all, you were speaking recently, uh, to Tech employees. We had our clerical and support staff day, uh, right before the start of the fall semester, and they, uh, I guess were looking for just the, the best possible speakers, motivational speakers that they could bring in. And so you came and spoke to the tech employees. Well, I don't know about motivating them, but they certainly motivated me. They had so many engaging questions and just really smart questions about how they can relay information to the freshmen coming in that are new to our area and how they can help them engage with the community and participate and, and you know, what that might look like for them. And so it was real, that was the first time I'd ever done that particular event at Tech and what a great group of leaders that were in the room. It was just a really, really fun afternoon. Well, and then, so if, if that wasn't keeping you busy enough, uh, you guys, you and, and your team at the Visitors bureau, you were on Fox 17 News, Dennis Farrier came out to Cookeville and did a really great segment on, he featured our, our downtown area, but then also waterfalls for All, which I know you're really proud of. You guys have worked so hard on that. It was a great segment. Well, Fox 17, when they called us, we were like, well, sure, we'd love for you to come out. And they said, how's 11 o'clock today? Well, at the time, the call was like nine forty five in the morning, so we literally dropped everything and just embraced them to the community within a little over an hour to get ready for it. And it really turned out wonderful. And it was, it was part of the America two 50, uh, feature that Fox 17 was doing. And so that was fantastic. And then that partnered really well with our waterfalls for all documentary promotions. So win, win, win, we just appreciate them. Yeah. And for, I mean, for our listeners that don't know, you know, we talked about Cookville being really the waterfall capital of the world, and you guys have been, um, highlighting the waterfalls that are accessible for people with a mobility issue, a visual impairment. Uh, they can go to the website for waterfalls for all and see waterfalls that are accessible to them. We have, and they can enjoy it too. We Have five of the most accessibility friendly waterfalls in the state of Tennessee, and we're going to actually be honored at the Governor's conference in a about a week and a half for our work on that. And so, just such an honor to really befriend the special needs community here, which is such a strong group of amazing people. Yeah. Well, that, that recognition is well deserved. And I don't know how you find time to do this podcast on top of everything else, but we're glad you're back and we're welcoming you back with a very exciting guest today and someone that you know well. We're talking with Abby Whedon, an alumna of Tennessee Tech's School of Art Craft and Design, who is now the founder and owner of the popular Vintage Boutique right here in Cookeville, Edison Hills new and old. She's also an accomplished photographer and an artist who has built a career around her love of creativity, color, light, and perhaps most importantly, things with a good story behind them. If you've been to Edison Hills, you know, this isn't your typical vintage shop. There's a little bit of everything from clothing and home goods to modern gifts and more. Abby, welcome to College Town Talk. Thank you guys for having me. Well, Uh, there's so much we want to ask you today, but let's start with Edison Hills. Uh, your storefront is about to celebrate its second birthday, which is hard to believe. Uh, very exciting. Uh, I, I love going into the shop whenever I'm downtown. Uh, so many neat things that you, you really can't find anywhere else. So, uh, take us back to the beginning. Where did the creative inspiration for the store come from and when did you realize this is something that you could really make work as a, as a business? So it starts with just a love of vintage and a love of treasure hunting. Uh, my mom and my grandmothers both love treasure hunting, so I've been doing it my whole life with them. And one thing that really became clear to me over the years is that not everyone wants to go dig through a basement like I do . Um, and there's so much good stuff out there. So I am kind of creating a space specifically for people that want to have those cool old items found and cleaned up and style together, um, in a beautiful way that makes 'em feel very accessible and available to them without having to go dig through a basement. But I'll do that. I'll dig through the basement. So, Just know that we do . Yes. before I get to my next question, you know, I'm a, I'm a customer. My daughter is a customer, and most of her Christmas presents come from your shop. . Like she starts shopping in October for what, you know, she's, she's just stacking the deck of here's what she wants and we just start collecting through. But my favorite two wool coats mm-hmm . Uh, which both, one was from like the sixties mm-hmm . And one was from the seventies. Just it is a treasure in my wardrobe. Mm-hmm . And your shop. For anyone who has not seen it, please, you have to experience this shop because it is like a high-end boutique where you've gone back in time. It is extraordinary and such an asset to the historic West Side. But, um, I would say that your shop is very intertwined with who you are as an artist. So I wanna ask you about that. So obviously you have a natural gift for art, you've had classes in your shop, but you also have formal training. So you're a graduate of Tennessee Tech School of Art Craft and Design. You spent a lot of time at the University's Appalachian Center for Craft in Smithville. And what do you remember from that time in your life and how did the lessons you learned in the classroom shape your approach to art and running a business today? Yeah, so I absolutely loved my time at the Craft Center. In fact, I actually graduated from Tech a little bit early and was eager and ready to start my work. But I was so heartbroken about leaving the Craft Center specifically because, And that is a culture of its own. It's, yeah. I mean, that's amazing. I've taken individual classes there and it is a very close knit community. Full of like-minded people. Yes. And because I have always been self-employed, I have never had to show anyone my diploma. However, everything that I learned comes into my work every single day. All the principles of art that I learned from all of my different courses and instructors all literally show up for me every day. And then the other thing I was thinking about this earlier that I really have taken with me, um, was something that Kim Winkle said, uh, about that it was more important to finish a project for than , than for it to be good . And that was something I really needed to hear as a student, because being a very art focused child and teenager, you know, you just try stuff and then you just stop when you stop liking it. But when you are studying art in school, you don't have that luxury. You have to finish the project , and normally you figure it out along the way and you are able to like, adapt those mistakes into the project that you're working on. And that is definitely something that I carry with me now is, is way more important to finish it than to get in your head about it and give up on it when you're like, I don't like how this is going. Well. And I think art you'll hear artists say in the middle is where it's messy. Mm-hmm . And if you stop in the middle, you don't get to to see what it can be. Yeah. That middle part is important. Yes. But it's not always the part. You don't wanna cover it up and like, don't let anyone look at your work while you're mid-project. Um, yeah. And an acts and an artist makes an accent look like it's on purpose. Absolutely. Yeah. Well, I I love hearing you talk about Kim Winkle because she's somebody I've gotten to know, you know, recently just in the communications and marketing office when we're doing stories on, on, you know, students or, or faculty over there in the craft center. And, uh, I, I've heard her talk about you and, uh, she, she's got a lot of pride in you. I mean, she, she lights up when she talks about all that you've accomplished. Um, but I, I wanna stay on this subject of your work as an artist because like we said in the introduction, you are also a sought after photographer. You've done magazine covers, weddings, portraits, and everything in between. Even photographing my illustrious co-host for Cook The Lifestyle Magazine. So, uh, tell us about that aspect of your career. How did you get started and do you have a photo shoot that was your favorite or most memorable? Yeah. So, uh, photography's my first and greatest love. I started photography at 13, uh, and I just haven't stopped. I've literally never put down the camera since then. It has changed and adapted a lot over the years as I've pursued other interests as well. But I will always come back to photography in some capacity. Um, yes, over the past couple years I have worked closely with Cookville Lifestyle and did several covers. Um, and I'm super grateful for that opportunity to Chelsea Dotes for that. Um, I recently stepped away because I am having my first baby, so I Congratulations. Yes, thank you. So I am simplifying my life a little bit, so I'm not doing that right now. But, um, and then The baby will complicate it. Rat bag Yeah. I need to give space for, for him to That's right. Throw his own chaos into my life. , how beautiful. Um, but yeah, photography is first. Um, and then actually my degree that I got at Tech is graphic design, which I got to pair with a photography, which was a good choice, . 'cause it, they do work together every day. Absolutely. And in business, those are superpowers because we hear from a lot of our, our downtown businesses to where Tennessee Tech will help them with their marketing and things like that because they don't possess those skills. And so to outsource and have to pay for those becomes very costly to a business. Mm-hmm . Because you are constantly having to market and re advertise and, you know, design all of the things. And so you really have an appropriate wheelhouse for small business. I think that that's fantastic. And one of my favorite things about you is you don't store up all of this talent for yourself. You find a way to share it with others and use it to make our community an even better place. One of the ways that you do that is through your service as Vice President of Art Round Tennessee, and that's a local nonprofit dedicated to preserving and enhancing the upper Cumberlands art scene. My director of marketing, Tessa Davis, has recently joined Art Round and she talks on a weekly basis about, oh my goodness, you won't believe what they're doing. They worked so hard. We, I had no idea that all of this existed supporting the arts community. So why was that something you wanted to be a part of? And for those who may be unfamiliar, what else can you tell us about the work of Art Round Tennessee? Yeah, so that starts in high school because, um, when I was a student, I was in an emerging artist club that Faye Watts, uh, was the teacher sponsor for, and we were able to do a student booth at Art Prowl. And so that was my first art market. And it was so fun and all of us students that were involved at that time, I mean, getting to sell your artwork, uh, getting to display it, it was just so special. And it was a way that Art, art Round Tennessee was able to invest in the students in the area. And then for me now as an adult, getting to actually help organize and plan those events, um, has been super special. Well, and you talked about Art Prowl where these artists, and in your case high school students mm-hmm . Are setting up a booth within a business. Yes. So that they're not having to do a brick and mortar or pay a festival fee to have a booth. This is a way for them to have a free space mm-hmm . To be able to experience being a vendor and being able to sell their art. So this is a wonderful way to support the arts community. Yes. Art Prow is our biggest event of the year. So it's coming up in November. Um, yeah, it involves the full, like all the West Side. Um, it's in a fully walking district, so, and A lot of fun. Yes. And there's, I think this year we have 80 artists. Oh my. So it takes place over two days, so you can split up your time. 'cause it takes a minute to get to everybody. It definitely does. But it is so worth It. And there's a little bit of everything truly. And there's also artists at all varying, um, levels of their careers. So because of that, there's also gonna be affordability levels. So you can easily buy Christmas presents, you know, from people that are making Christmas cards or small ornaments, but you also will have access to established artists who, you know, you're gonna be able to buy like a collectible piece for your House and one of a kind items. Mm-hmm . I mean, that's what's extraordinary. I love to use Art Prow to be able to buy all the gifts for like, you know, when my kids were in school, we would buy all our teachers gifts mm-hmm . From Art Prow. We wanted to have something that nobody else was buying and something that would be unique. And it is just, it's just a great thing for yourself and to shop for others. Yeah. You know, Abby, we were, uh, talking before we started recording about how we both previously lived in Washington DC and when I was moving back to Cookville, I, I, you know, I, I knew, obviously it's a little bit of a smaller town, uh, as compared to DC and I wanted to live somewhere with a, a, a vibrant art scene. I don't have any artistic talent, but I enjoy it. And, um, wanted to live somewhere that, that had that. And I think people would be, uh, really surprised at how vibrant that is in Cookville mm-hmm . And so I just appreciate what you and Art Round Tennessee are doing because there is such an art scene here. We've talked to people on this program, you know, Terry Ritter and Chad McDonald and, uh, a kinda a, a new emerging artist, Adam Poe from the Chamber. I mean, uh, there's so much talent here and, um, the, the work that you guys are doing to, to create opportunities for artists to, um, to introduce people to, to art here in Cookville, I just, um, it really helps just, I think it has a downstream effect on just the quality of life here mm-hmm . And, um, really makes a difference. So I appreciate it. But, um, speaking of, of art and creating things, we gotta talk about the latest single by a local musician and a mutual friend to all of us here. Uh, Andrew Buckner, uh, who works with us now, also part-time and the communications and marketing office at Tech. But he's got a song out and it's called Edison Hills . And it's a tribute to your business. So not a lot of business owners can say that there's a published song out there paying tribute to their business. And to make this even more special, uh, you're creating the album art for this new single. So mm-hmm. What does it mean to you to have this song published? And how did Andrew first tell you of this idea? Uh, yeah, so Andrew, um, and I met on Cook lurking for Cookville Lifestyle, and we just immediately clicked. Um, I think that there are people that make art 'cause they must and, um, then we find each other . And so Andrew, when he told me that he was releasing the song, um, it's, he also mentioned that it is also a nursery rhyme. So, or not nursery rhyme Oh. But a nursery, you know, like a ba like a, what is the word I'm looking for? Lullaby. Yes. Lullaby, . I love it. Um, and so that was very sweet and it's a very nice gift to me. And also like getting to collaborate together on this project by him doing the music and me doing the art, um, is very special to me. And Andrew spends a lot of time with me at the store. So I have, uh, like a big work table in the back and it gives people in my community can come and spend time with me and come hang out. And so Andrew takes that opportunity a lot. And That space has a mellow vibe, right. I mean, you know, that, that is, you know, when you, I remember you didn't even have the store completely set up yet when we were first visiting the kind of, and you were like, I just want people to feel welcome that they can come in and they can sit down and regardless if they're browsing in the shop or they just wanna sit down and have a space that's peaceful, you wanted it to have that feeling. Well, it immediately did, but I think the feeling comes from you, not just the space. I think your mojo kind of feeds into Edison Hills, and so you just kind of have a chill vibe about you, Abby. And, and ever since we first met, I was like, she's just got this very mellow, you know, you just don't get really ruffled. At least it does not show . And I think that that translates in that space that you're just like, everybody's welcome. It's great. Come on in. And it, it's very, very nice. It, it makes for a peaceful shopping afternoon, I'll say that. Well, thank you. I appreciate that. And it is definitely something that I wanted, you know, was everyone to feel welcome there. Um, also part of the reason why I think it feels like an extension of myself is 'cause it's all of my things in one space. 'cause not only is the retail space available, um, but my photo studio is in the back and then, um, there's kind of like, the back third has been sort of a convertible space over the past couple of years. That's where we were hosting workshops, which we're moving a little bit away from workshops to try something else for a bit. Um, but we also host artists in that space and bring, um, other vintage curators in that space as well. So the, having that, that space in the back that can kind of like adapt to whatever special event we're doing has been super valuable to me. Yeah. Well, and I, I wanna go back just real quickly to, so the, the song, uh, the Edison Hills song, I know it's on, uh, like band camp now. He's got some kind of placeholder album artwork Yeah. . And then it'll be, you know, it'll be on all the streaming platforms. Yeah. People can get it on Spotify and Apple Music. Um, you may not, um, be ready to share or wanna share, but do you have any, do you have some creative, do you know what you're planning on for the album artwork? Well, I'm planning on doing an oil pastel, so Oh, wow. I know that I, I've started to kind of, that, that's a material I've started working with in the past year, so, yeah. Um, and then I also am thinking probably a fall inspired landscape. Fall always feels a lot more transitional into the next year than like January does for me. It always has. It's so funny 'cause last year I wrote this really long, uh, nostalgic Instagram post just on my personal Instagram with photos from like many of my past falls of, it just always is a season where I seem to be going through big changes in my own life. We opened the store, my husband and I got married. Like, there's just always this big season of change and then don't have my baby coming in this fall. So I'm definitely, um, will be leaning into kind of some like autumnal colors and stuff, so Yeah. Nice. Well, we can, we can all look forward to that. I, I, I actually haven't had a chance to hear the song yet, so I'm eager to hear it. Um, but I know, I know. It'll be great. Everything he does is so good. Um, I was looking at the, the clock and it looks like we'll have just a minute for an extra question. Mm-hmm . So I also wanted to ask you about, um, something that you and other business owners have have come together in the west side to do. Uh, you guys are calling it late night Local? Yes. Yeah. And, um, it's as I understand, like what, once a month the shops are staying open later mm-hmm . Um, there's, there's kind of special deals in some cases. I know like at The Exceptional Bean, they, um, turn it into a little bit more of a lounge space mm-hmm . And then the lights a bit. But it's just a fun way for people to be able to shop after hours. And, and what, how did that all come about? And, and just for, um, people that haven't had a chance to experience that, what would you want them to know? Yeah, So we did a three month kind of trial period this summer with it. Um, we did June, July and August and yeah, we're open from six to 9:00 PM every night. And that started that. I'm neighbors a few doors down from Cream City of course. And, um, I found it so difficult to lock my doors at 6:00 PM on Friday because there's, there's so many people out, so many people. Um, and you know, sometimes people don't even get downtown until that time anyways, you know, so, um, summers are hard on retail. It's no secret. So, um, we all could benefit from a little community support. Yes. Yeah. So I just reached out to other business owners. Uh, we have, um, you know, we've got, we're all connected in like a group chat, so I'm like, would anybody want to do this with me? Where we just stay open till nine and try to do something special in your space? So either offer some sales, uh, host artist or other vendors. Like I know some people have done permanent jewelry and there's been a dirty soda bar and stuff like that. Um, and then also encouraging people to do live music. So I, everyone was in charge of their own activation, so like every business that participated just kind of did what was good for them. But I was like, well, we can guarantee we have music , because Chris, my husband is a musician and we have a lot of musician friends. And so, um, we had music at our space and we will continue to do that. So after the summer after, um, we did June, July, August, and then we actually found out through, um, Emma Crabtree of Glass Tangerine reaching out to help. She, she organizes a lot of the holiday, like collaborative efforts downtown that, um, actually a lot of people really, really wanted to keep doing Late Night Local. And I was like, okay, great. . So we're actually gonna be doing it through the end of the year. So, um, we will be, it's different. It's not the third it, each month is a different day, um, different Friday, but Yeah. Well, and I experienced after the first one, I was like, this is so nice because, you know, I work mm-hmm . And by the time I get off work, the stores are closed. So if I can't manage to scrounge through my lunch break in a rush, I don't get to enjoy the stores. I'm in a hurry. And so it was so moody and mellow. It was just really, really nice. And I thought, this is wonderful. And you kind of capture a new market of people that don't get to like slow down and enjoy it. Mm-hmm. And of course, I spend more money the longer, the longer I spend it in each shop. Yeah. I'm not just running an errand at my lunch break. And so for anyone that, you know, like in the same boat as me, they're working mm-hmm . That was, it's just really nice to have that time for yourself to enjoy these special spaces and to shop. And people are finding their way to our local restaurants as well. So it's just Oh, sure. The, the whole, the whole West Side and the Square as well. We're just a light with people. Okay. Now we've reached the end of our podcast and we'd like to end each interview on this podcast with the same question. Abby, what is one way that Tennessee Tech has impacted your life? Oh my goodness. I, I mean just, just the, just the craft center. I just can't say enough good things about it. I didn't know how rare the Craft Center was until I extraordinary moved away from Ville. Yes. It wasn't until I left and met artists in other areas that I was like, oh, And they're like, you have a what? Yeah. Yeah. So just, we are so fortunate to have the Appalachian Center for Craft as part of Tech's campus, and I'm so grateful to have gotten to be a student there. Well, we couldn't agree more. We appreciate you coming on this show. Thanks so much for being our guest today on College Town Hall. Of course. Thanks for having me. And For our listeners, if you're enjoying our show and hearing from Tennessee Tech alumni and community leaders like Abby Whedon, would you do us a favor and leave a five star review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get this podcast? It all helps to spread the word about the great things happening right here in Cookville. And we'll meet you back here again next week for more conversations with the people who make Cookville Tennessee's College Town. College Town Talk is presented by Tennessee Tech University in partnership with the Cookville Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau in stone com radio. Your hosts are Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout and original music is performed by Andrew Buckner. Visit us online at tn tech.edu/college Town talk.
Episode 92: Dr. Jeremy Schoen
This week on College Town Talk, we're joined by guest co-host Jamie Fancher for a conversation with Dr. Jeremy Schoen, associate professor in Tennessee Tech’s College of Business.
Dr. Schoen discusses his innovative organizational leadership course, where students
put leadership lessons into practice by raising money for charitable causes throughout
the Upper Cumberland and beyond. He also talks about his volunteerism with the Tennessee
Central Heritage Rail Trail, the College of Business’ focus on societal impact, his
time teaching remotely in New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic and more.
Episode 91: Dr. Frank Tittle
This week on College Town Talk, guest co-host Susan Luna-Hazlewood returns for a conversation with Dr. Frank Tittle, a two-time Tennessee Tech graduate now serving as executive director of Tennessee Tech GEAR UP - the university's groundbreaking initiative to increase college and career readiness for students from underserved communities across the Upper Cumberland.
Dr. Tittle talks about his decades-long career in education, from teaching middle
school chorus to serving as Tech’s director of admissions. He also discusses GEAR
UP’s work in our local K-12 schools, including an unforgettable trip to the Super
Bowl for one lucky middle school student. Plus, Dr. Tittle shares advice for new college
students and weighs in on Cookeville’s live music scene, his favorite place on Tech’s
campus and more in our rapid-fire round.
Episode 90: John and Sandy MacDonald
This week on College Town Talk, guest co-host Susan Luna Hazlewood joins us for a conversation with John and Sandy MacDonald, owners of Cookeville’s iconic Ralph’s Donut Shop. The couple shares how they came to own the nearly 65-year-old business, what it’s like working together as spouses, and what it means to preserve Ralph’s legacy as a recently designated National Register of Historic Places site.
John and Sandy also discuss their love for Tennessee Tech and Golden Eagles football,
the impact of the 39 Depot Master Plan on Cookeville’s WestSide, and how the Cookeville
community kept their small business afloat during the worst days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Episode 89: Dr. Amy Hill
This week on College Town Talk, we sit down with Dr. Amy Hill, lecturer in Tennessee Tech's College of Emerging and Integrative Studies, three-time Tech graduate and a 2022 recipient of the university's Outstanding Professional Award.
Dr. Hill reflects on her more than 25-year journey at Tech, discusses a student service-learning project that transformed a bedroom at the Cookeville Rescue Mission and shares the inspiration behind a local nonprofit she founded to help individuals overcome difficult circumstances.
She also offers her perspective on how AI is changing graphic design and desktop publishing,
highlights a recent summer publishing workshop she led for local high school students,
and looks back on the experiences that have shaped her career as an educator, artist
and mentor.
Episode 88: Matt Swallows
This week on College Town Talk, we catch up with former Cookeville Mayor Matt Swallows, a Tennessee Tech alumnus, former Golden Eagle football player and the president and COO of Swallows Insurance Agency. Matt reflects on his years leading Tennessee's College Town, shares his perspective on local government and discusses the lessons he's learned from a lifetime of serving the Upper Cumberland.
In our interview, Matt also looks back on his days as a Tech football student-athlete,
discusses the transformation of Tucker Stadium and shares what it means to carry on
his family's 70-year business legacy. Plus, Matt recalls some of his favorite moments
as a former local radio host and reveals what Tennessee Tech has meant to him both
personally and professionally.
Episode 87: Dr. Thomas Payne
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan sit down with Dr. Thomas Payne, dean of the Tennessee Tech College of Business. Since becoming dean in 2015, Dr. Payne has helped lead the college to its highest enrollment in a decade, overseen the addition of new, sought-after programs of study and presided over a renewed emphasis on experiential learning — with more than 90% of students in the college participating in résumé-building opportunities before graduation.
In the interview, Dr. Payne discusses preparing students for the rapidly changing
world of AI, the massive renovation underway at Johnson Hall and recent transformational
gifts helping support student success in the College of Business. Plus, in our rapid-fire
round, Dr. Payne shares his favorite Cookeville eateries, the career he might have
pursued outside higher education and the Tech colleague most likely to make him laugh
in the middle of a faculty meeting.
Episode 86: Jimmy Guadalupe
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan welcome Jimmy Guadalupe, Tennessee Tech’s newly appointed student trustee and a rising senior majoring in business management and business information and technology.
Jimmy reflects on being unanimously confirmed by the university’s Board of Trustees, discusses why supporting student mental health will be a priority during his one-year term and shares his experience navigating higher education as a first-generation college student.
He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at his role as a Tech Trailblazer, which involves
giving personalized campus tours to prospective students and their families, and shares
a family memory that inspired his hopes to one day work for Coca-Cola.
Episode 85: Dr. Lauren Harding
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan sit down with Dr. Lauren Harding, associate professor of political science at Tennessee Tech. As our country celebrates its 250th anniversary, Dr. Harding shares insights from her research on trust in government and discusses how she and her family are experiencing the best of America through their mission to visit every U.S. National Park Site.
Plus, Dr. Harding tells us about paid internship opportunities for students at the
Tennessee General Assembly and recounts a recent study abroad trip she co-led to Spain
and Portugal.
Episode 84: Margo Dirkson
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan sit down with Margo Dirkson, department coordinator in Tennessee Tech’s Office of Access, Belonging and Community Outreach and a doctoral student in Tech’s new Ph.D. in higher education program.
Margo shares why she chose to pursue a doctorate while balancing a full-time career
and extensive volunteer service, what it means to help students find a sense of belonging
on campus and how she intentionally built community after moving to Cookeville a decade
ago. We also discuss her volunteerism with local organizations close to her heart,
such as the Bryan Symphony Orchestra and Game On Accessible Tennis. Plus, in our rapid-fire
round, Margo dishes on her favorite campus spots and the best part about living in
the Upper Cumberland.
Episode 83: Dr. Erin Hoover
This week on College Town Talk, we sit down with Dr. Erin Hoover, associate professor of English at Tennessee Tech and the first-ever poet laureate for the City of Cookeville.
In this episode, Dr. Hoover discusses how Tech’s English Department is thoughtfully incorporating AI into the classroom while helping students strengthen their writing skills, think critically and develop their own creative voices.
She also shares her work mentoring students through The Iris Review, the university’s award-winning student-edited literary magazine, and reflects on
the deeply personal experiences that inspired her 2023 poetry collection, No Spare People. Plus, she offers a preview of her next book, scheduled for publication in 2027.
Episode 82: Dr. Joshua Martin
This week on College Town Talk, guest co-host Jamie Fancher returns for a conversation with Dr. Joshua Martin, a Tennessee Tech alumnus who now serves as assistant professor of Spanish.
Dr. Martin is also the recipient of Tech’s 2024-25 Scholastic Research Award and author of the new book, Masculinity, Coloniality, and the US-Mexico Border in Literature and Political Culture.
In our interview, Dr. Martin reflects on what it means to serve his alma mater as
a faculty member, discusses the lengthy process of writing and publishing a book and
shares insights from a recent student and faculty trip he co-led to Los Angeles. Later,
during our rapid-fire round, he reveals which colleague is most likely to make him
laugh in the middle of a faculty meeting and the surprising career path he might have
pursued if not for higher education.
Episode 81: Dr. Julie Baker
This week on College Town Talk, guest co-host Jamie Fancher joins us for a conversation with Dr. Julie Baker, a three-time Tennessee Tech graduate who now serves as dean of the College of Graduate Studies and associate provost at Tech.
As she approaches her 20th anniversary at Tech, Dr. Baker reflects on her early years as a high school teacher, shares favorite campus memories and gives us a glimpse into what it’s really like working alongside her brother. She also discusses how her rural East Tennessee roots shaped her belief in the transformative power of education — and how that conviction helped inspire a historic multi-year GEAR UP grant that will expand college readiness opportunities across the Upper Cumberland.
Later, in our rapid-fire round, Dr. Baker reveals the career she might have pursued outside education and names the Tech colleague she’d call as her lifeline in a game of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”
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» College Town Talk, Episode 81 - Dr. Julie Baker Transcript
Hey everyone, welcome to another episode of College Town Talk. I'm Jonathan Frank, and I'm so happy to be joined today by my guest, co-host, and my coworker in the Office of Communications and Marketing, our assistant director for Brand communications, Jamie Fancher. Jamie, thanks for being here. Thanks for having me. I am definitely different from my day to day, but happy to be here, Okay. So we are a, for our listeners, we are a multi-generational office in the communications and marketing office. Uh, our, our ages, uh, run the gamut. I am, uh, a millennial, and Jamie, you are what I, I assume Gen Z and I understand you've got some questions for me to, uh, test my knowledge of Gen Z speak. Yeah. So actually I am a millennial, but I'm a 96 baby, so I ride on the cuff of millennial and Gen Z. So I reached out to Katie Blair, who's our coworker. Oh, Katie. And she helped write some of these questions for you. So my first one is Jonathan. Okay. Be honest. Okay. Okay. If I said your favorite emoji probably tells me your age. What emoji gives millennial away immediately. Oh, is it the crying laughter emoji? Yeah. Good job. Good job. Okay. They think that's overused in very 2016 Facebook Energy. Oh, That makes sense. Because I use it all the time. Perfect. I never use it anymore. Okay. This one might be kind of hard for you. Okay. What does NPC behavior mean? N-P-C-N-P-C non-problematic? I don't know. You give non playable character Non, okay. Do you know what that means? No. I'll look it up later. Okay. So it means that somebody's like acting like pretty, like robotic or predictable. Um, like they're not giving like big energy, they're kind of running on like autopilot. Like, do you ever see those people like at an amusement parks that just kind of like, stand there and just like, don't get outta the way, don't move. They just, So it's about I don't want to be an NPC. No, you don't wanna, that's bad behavior. Don't want that. Yeah. Okay. Okay. If I said your outfit today was giving Aura, is that compliment or an insult? I think it's a good thing our guest is giving a thumbs up. Okay, good. It's a compliment. So having Aura, it means you're cool, confident. I probably shouldn't say cool, because Gen Z wouldn't say cool either, so you're just giving good energy. Okay. Okay. Last one. Okay. Which is very hard for me. Is it socially acceptable to leave people on red? I, well, I think it's, I think it's quite rude, but I feel like the answer is, is yes, what Gen Z thinks it is. Yeah. Gen Z tends to think that it's low pressure, like texting is low pressure where me and you like, we want an answer. Right. That's why we texted you, but not Gen ZI Disagree with them, and I also think that they should use proper punctuation in texts. Okay. I agree too. But that comes from our con communication background. So , Well, uh, okay. So I, I did okay. Right? Yeah, I Think you did pretty good. Okay. Well, um, Jamie, since you are our guest co-host today, I think it's only right to let you do the introductions, uh, for our guest. Okay. Well, here it goes. Our guest today is Dr. Julie Baker, associate Provost and Dean of the College of Graduate Studies at Tennessee Tech. Dr. Baker is a three-time tech graduate who is celebrating her 20th anniversary at the university this year. Congrats. She's also a former high school teacher and longtime professor in the College of Education and Human Sciences, and was tech's inaugural winner of the OVC outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award. Dr. Baker, welcome to Collegetown Talk. Thank you so much. I'm excited to be here. Yeah. So we have a lot that we wanna ask you today, but I think we should start by talking about your two very big roles that you've taken on for the university. You're not only the associate provost, but you're also the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies. So I think either one of those is just a full-time job in itself, um, but you do both of them, so that's really impressive. So it's, can you tell us a little bit about each of those jobs, how you balance it all and have a family and what a typical workday looks like for you? Absolutely. So I'll start with the Dean of Grad Studies because that's the one really that most people, I feel like they understand a little better. Um, but I have a great team who works up in the grad studies office, and we really are fac we're more facilitators, right? So we are academic support for everything that happens in the graduate school. And so we really support the colleges. Um, we start with admission, um, we work through progression with our students. We do comm plans, and then of course we help them get to graduation, which is the most important part I think. Um, we work on policies, we work on procedures. We have gsec, which is the graduate studies Executive Committee. And so everything, grad studies, we are the ones really behind the scenes and helping the colleges move things along for, for their students and supporting students in all those ways. So that one's pretty easy, right? Dean people, most people understand that, but the associate provost part, people typically are like, what in the world is that? I've never heard of that. What is that word? Um, and so I have lots of other roles when it comes to the associate provost. So I am in charge of academic integrity on campus, which, um, can be sometimes not so fun if we have violations. And so those are those ebb and flow throughout the, throughout the year. I oversee our honors program. I have a director who's really awesome and a team of people in that, in that unit, our Center for Global Experiences, um, that I oversee that unit too. And that one's really fun because I get to see and get reports from all the students, the faculty led and the individual students who go visit all these other countries and have these experiences that are really valuable and impactful to them. And so those, that, that's really fun to interact with. Um, I oversee academic space, and so that involves everything from utilization and allocation of classrooms to new buildings and renovations. That's a big one. That takes up a lot of time. That, and then student success is another big one. And so that, that has lots of, um, lots of arms too. And so, um, I'm working with students and families just if, if they have any kinds of questions or problems, sometimes problems come up, you know, at, on campus. And so I work with students and families, um, on things like grade appeals and sometimes that academic integrity, those violations, um, but really supporting the students, and that's both for undergrad and graduate. And so I really enjoy that, that piece of my job, because I like that student interaction. Now that we've talked a little bit about your job today, I wanna talk about an earlier role you had, which I know, uh, remains very meaningful to you. And that's being a high school teacher. Uh, you were a classroom teacher here at Cookeville High School, and also in I'm never gonna be able to awa. Yeah, just awa You sound like you're not from Tennessee. I know. And I, and I know it's right in your Chattanooga, But they, they are the UA owls Ua. Okay. Yeah. Um, and, but you, and then you carried, you know, those lessons forward into your role as a professor, uh, in the College of Education and Human Sciences. So I wanna know, um, what are the similarities and differences between the K 12 setting and higher ed setting? And as someone who's spent so much of your career as a teacher and then teaching future teachers, uh, what do you make of some of the challenges that we're seeing across the country when it comes to, um, recruiting and retaining classroom teachers? Okay, so I'll start, you asked a lot of questions there, . Um, I'll start maybe with the similarities. Uh, you know, it all comes down to helping students and serving students, and that's really the core of, of teaching at any level. And so I'll, I'll add, I always wanted to be a teacher. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. Um, from early on I was teaching, you know, setting up a classroom and teaching my younger cousins, um, that, that was always fun for me. It was, it never felt like even when I got into it never felt like a job. Um, I do come from, uh, a family. I have several educator educators in my family. Um, my great grandmother was a teacher, always. She was a teacher before there were even like, teaching licenses, licenses. And she came back to Tennessee Tech and got her license. I have her diploma hanging on my wall in my office. She was teacher of the year in 1973, Tennessee Teacher of the Year. And so I have that background and, um, always, you know, grew up learning about how important the teaching profession was and how important teachers are to students and what kind of difference they can make. And so I really, um, believe that, you know, teaching as a profession is, is very special. Um, there's lots of value in helping students and, and, and education, whether it's at the K 12 level or at the college, um, higher ed level can be so impactful in a student's life. And so that is really important to me in terms of, um, the challenges that we have today with teachers. You know, their teaching is really hard, and I think unfortunately there's this stigma that, um, that teaching is easy. That teaching is something that people do because they want summers off, and that could not be more far from the truth, right? Um, it, it is hard work. Um, they are, they are working every minute of the day, oftentimes with no breaks. Um, there are high standards, there are high expectations. And so, um, you know, we need the best and brightest, uh, young students to be teachers, to want to be teachers and move the profession forward. And so I think some of it is about the messaging about teaching as a profession and making sure that we're all being very positive about it. Um, you know, that positivity is needed because it's such a special career, it's so impactful. Um, and teachers make, make such a huge difference for everyone, every student that they teach. And so I do believe that, um, you know, we, we will always have young people come forward who want to be teachers who want to make a difference. And I think your, your heart has to be in it. Um, but I, but I do think that some of it is around the messaging and that that piece is really important and that we need to recognize the hard work that teachers do Well, and, and tech must be doing something right in that regard as the, what still, I think the largest producer of teachers in, in the state of Tennessee. But, um, but I love that story. Both of my sisters have been teachers. And, um, it's so important. I just have so many friends that are currently teachers in Putnam County, and they just talk about, you just see the little joy that each one of them has after they day. Yes, they're exhausted, but they would all say they would never trade it for the world, um, because they're getting to teach the next generation and getting help to be like a second mom to a lot of them. Mm-hmm . Um, and it's pretty cool to hear all their, um, experiences and stories that they get. So, yeah. But I know something about you, um, that our, our listeners may not know, which, um, is part of your role is you were part of a small team that helped Tennessee Tech land one of its largest grants in university history. It was nearly a $10 million federal grant known as gaining early awareness and readiness for undergraduate programs, or also known as the Gear Up program. So it's all about helping students in rural and unserved communities be able to pursue and succeed in post-secondary education. So can you tell us a little bit about the grant, why it's important, and then why you wanted to bring that program here to the Upper Cumberland? Yeah, and, and really this was easy. Um, we had a great team. So Luke Anderson and Derek Potter are some colleagues of mine. And so, um, the three of us really worked together to, to write the grant. And, you know, I come from a very small town and it was rural in East Tennessee. And so that piece of it is so important to me, and I think, um, anything I can do to give back to the communities across East Tennessee or the Upper Cumberland, um, you know, I think all three of us were just on the same page about that, the impact that that amount of dollars can have on small communities. That's huge. And so that was really the, the purpose that we had behind it is giving back to the communities and the students in those communities because we know that education can make such a difference. Um, and, and really it's about building that awareness. And so the programming, um, that is in the, the four, the four counties where we focused, um, the programming is about building awareness and helping families and students become aware of and, um, really familiar with and comfortable and confident in higher education, letting them know that, Hey, this is for you. You can do this. It shouldn't be about money. You know, we don't want to, we don't wanna talk about what kind of barriers we want to ensure you that we can help break those down. Um, and even if you're a first generation student, or even if you think that you don't have enough money to come to college, um, there is access. Like we want to open that access for rural communities and first generation students. And so, um, it was really, uh, uh, I wouldn't say it was easy, you know, the writing piece, it's a lot, it's hard work. Um, but the, the mission of it and the core values in that grant were so important that that part of it was easy for us. Yeah. And I think they get some other fun things out of it too. I know that one student actually got to go to this past year's Super Bowl, um, from our county, which I don't know anybody who's ever gone to the Super Bowl , so I think that's pretty Cool. Yeah. Yeah. That was awesome. We got some good press about that too. Yeah, the kids were very excited about that. Uh, we, we mentioned it briefly in the, in the introduction, but we have to acknowledge a big milestone anniversary for you. Uh, you're celebrating 20 years at Tennessee Tech this year. So when you look back over those 20 years, uh, what are some of the memories or accomplishments that stand out most? And when you accepted a job here at Tech back in 2006, did you imagine then that you'd a, that you'd be here today still, or that you'd be serving as Dean and Associate Provost? Absolutely not. So back in 2006, I was just, you know, I was, I was teaching and got a phone call from someone here at Tech who, who knew me when I was a student and just said, you know, Hey, Julie, um, would you be interested? And of course, we had some two plus two sites. I was in Chattanooga, and so it was, it was just an instructor job, and I thought, wow, this sounds like a challenge. This sounds fun. Um, let me jump in. And so, absolutely, I never even imagined that I would still be here 20 years from now. Um, but it, it was definitely a challenge and, and I, I've always loved Tennessee Tech, and so that was, you know, that was really the thing that drew me back to tech, um, in terms of memories. And I, I think just the strong connections with students and faculty. I mean, that piece of it for me when, um, and it was the same when I was teaching in, in K 12, right? So years later, you know, you see a student who comes up and remembers you and, uh, you know, and says, oh my gosh, I remember your English class, and, and that was so fun and I learned so much. You know, it's those kinds of moments like you talked about with your teacher friends. Um, it's those kinds of moments that just really make a difference. And so I think for me, those are the best memories. It's those reunions that you have with students. And so at Tech, um, it's graduations. Um, you know, I probably had about 10 students who messaged me a week or so ago on Mother's Day to say, happy Mother's Day. I mean, you know, just random students over the years, those are really feel good moments. You know, they remember, they remember you for some reason. They know that you made some difference. And it's not always about, you know, the content that you're teaching. Sometimes it's about the help that you provided, the support that you gave them, the encouragement that you gave them while they were here. And so to me, it's, it's those types of memories that, that make the most difference. Um, that, that I'm really excited that I've been here for 20 years. I know I've been making a difference for 20 years, and while it's not P 12 or K 12 that I intended to teach in all my life, um, it, it's still serving students. And that's at the core of what's most important to me. Our office works, um, commencement each year. So I've had the pleasure of seeing you on the floor each, um, commencement when the students are getting down there and the joy that they see whenever you're down there and you're giving them hugs. I mean, it makes really great social media content for me. So thanks. But also just seeing those moments and the light in their eyes is also looks like really special. I'm a bystander. I don't know those students, but I know how you are. So that's actually pretty cool, um, to see that every commencement and it happens every single time. So yeah, that's really fun. Yeah, I love doing that. Going down on the floor while they're all down there, you know, finding their seats and just, you know, looking around and seeing who I know. And, and it's just, that day is so exciting for them. It's such an accomplishment, and I know that their families are here and, um, it just makes me proud. Like, you know, I feel like I'm their family mm-hmm . And so I, you know, I'm proud too that, that they've earned that degree and it means so much to them. So yeah, that's one of the most exciting days of the year, is that graduation. Yeah, absolutely. Okay. Well, I put Jonathan under a little rapid fire earlier with some Gen ZI won't do Gen Z to you, um, but I'm gonna ask a few questions and you just let me know the first thing that, um, comes to your mind. Okay. So which tech faculty or staff member would be your phone a friend lifeline in a game of who wants to be a Millionaire? Okay. I would definitely say Lisa's the gummy. Um, we, she, she is def she's, she's been my, um, friend for a lot of years. She was actually my teacher, um, when I was in the PhD program here. And so that, that was interesting, and I was a little bit scared of her at that point in time, right, . So she, um, she is so smart and, um, just adds so much value to Tennessee Tech. Um, but she, she would be my phone of friend, um, probably in any kind of game that we were playing. Um, yeah, she would be it. Okay, if you weren't working in higher ed or K through 12 education, the job you would be doing for a career is, Okay. So I had to think about this when I saw this on the sheet, right? Um, I love plants. I love, um, gardening, growing plants, and I love building things. And so, um, I'm by, by far not an expert at that. But, uh, it would probably have something to do with, with plants or building. Um, I built a greenhouse about a year and a half ago in my backyard, and that is, is, um, it's just become a, a huge hobby for me. And so I love spending time out there. I love going plant shopping or growing plants from seeds, um, or propagating them and just, um, seeing what, you know, what we can grow. And so I've, I've also have my five year-old granddaughter into that. And so we love to go to Johnson's or go to Lowe's or, you know, wherever we can go to get plants in the area and then see how we can grow those. And so that's something that's just really fun for me. So I think that would be a perfect place to work. I could just walk on over to Johnson's and just work there and be happy the rest of my life. I think count me out on plants. I feel like I'd kill everything. So, , Jonathan, has anybody ever asked you that question? What would you be doing? What I would be doing? Oh gosh. Ooh. I would, oh, I'd be a barista. You know that, right? Okay. I'd be, yeah, I'd be working at Soul Craft Coffee, Irene jokes that I've got stock in the company. Well, maybe you should just get that as a side gig. Hey, if I always say if I wanted a lottery, you just find me working at a coffee shop, , that's what I'd be doing. Okay. Favorite place on Tennessee Tech's campus? Favorite place. So probably the, either the main Quad or MIM gym. Um, as a student, I have so many memories of playing intramural basketball in MIM Gym. It was, it was just so fun. Um, you know, that was the time and the place that I got to reunite with, uh, with people that I played basketball against in high school. Uh, and, and it was so fun because we got together when we all got to tech and we were on the same teams and, uh, just spent a lot of time there, you know, having fun, uh, and really enjoying that part of the college experience. You know, it was a way to, it was an outlet. It was a way to focus, uh, on something other than studying or classes or coursework, but a way to kind of reunite with old friends and, and meet new friends and then, um, just have fun together. So probably maybe MIM Gym and those intramural basketball, that, that would be why those Ural basketball games that to me were so fun. Yeah, I have some good memories in MIM Gym too. Okay. What is the best and worst part of working at Tennessee Tech with your brother ? Okay, so, um, I guess it's gonna be out there, right? For whoever listens to the, to the radio and here's this podcast. But, um, you know, the, the worst part maybe is the people. Sometimes people don't understand and, and they think that like, we're in it for the wrong reasons and don't understand that. Like, we just come from this, you know, the same place and want, you know, have some of the same goals. And, um, you know, of course we have nepotism agreements for all of that . Um, but the, the best part is just the time that I get to spend collaborating with him. And so we've, we've always, it's just the two of us in our family, so just two siblings and, um, I came to Tech and then he came to tech. And so, uh, we, we've always been pretty close, but just being able to live in the same town, I know everybody doesn't get to do that with their siblings. And so being able to live in the same town and raise kids together, um, that's fun because our kids, uh, you know, do get to see each other and hang out. And, um, fun to have that cousin connection. We had really strong cousin connections when we were growing up, and so really just being able to collaborate with him. Um, we do have different styles. Uh, people know that, that we are pretty different, uh, in some ways, but alike in other ways. Uh, but we have that same mission, you know, we're here to serve the students and, and that's important, but one of the funnier parts, um, I is when people don't know. So like, I had someone this semester who came up and said, Julie Baker, you know, what, what in the world, how have I worked with you for 15 years? And I didn't know that he was your brother. Uh, and, and so it's just funny to me, the people who don't know and then find out, um, there, there was someone on campus once who had, uh, commented to another colleague that when he saw us walking by, he said, um, you know, isn't it funny how when people are married for so long, they start to look alike? And so literally thought we were married, . And of course, he got corrected really quickly and was, it was, you know, just so embarrassed and said, oh my gosh, you know, I, I just thought because they looked alike and they were together, that they were married. No, you know, they're brother and sister. So, um, it's always fun to see the people who don't know and have worked with us for years. And of course, Dr. Went hosts a show here on, on Stone com radio as well. We'd like to, we're hoping to have him on the podcast soon. Uh, also, but, um, Dr. Baker, we like to end each interview on this podcast with the same question, and that is what is one way that Tennessee Tech has impacted your life? Yeah, so I, I think that's easy. Um, you know, the relationships and, and really the support that tech has provided for me. Um, I have three of my four sons who have or are attending Tennessee Tech, um, a granddaughter who's at the CDL. And so tech is just a really important part of my life. And so I feel like it's impacted every, every part of my life. And, um, and definitely that support that it's provided me for 20 years now, um, I think that will continue the rest of my life as well. Well, you've definitely made a big impact on Tennessee Tech too. Thank you so much for being our guest today on College Town Talk. Thank you so much. Thanks for having me. Thanks. And for our listeners, if you're enjoying our show and hearing from Tennessee Tech faculty leaders like Dr. Julie Baker, would you do us a favor and leave a five star review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever we get this podcast? It all helps to spread the word about the great things happening right here in Cookeville. We'll meet you back here again next week for more conversations with the people who make Cookeville Tennessee's College Town. College by Tennessee Tech University, in partnership with the Cookeville Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau in stone com radio. Your hosts are Jonathan Frank and Shan Stout, and original music is performed by Andrew Buckner. Visit us online at tn tech.edu/collegetown talk.
Episode 80: Adam Poe
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan catch up with Adam Poe, a 2011 Tennessee Tech graduate who now serves as vice president of the Highlands Economic Partnership.
In our interview, Adam discusses Tech’s role in driving economic development across the region and reflects on the lasting impact of his involvement as a Tech student with Kappa Sigma fraternity—an experience that ultimately led him to serve as the organization’s global president.
He also shares a personal story about how a friend’s illness inspired a major career
change, and how a creative solution to improve sleep sparked an unexpected passion
and talent for painting.
Episode 79: Callie Smith
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan introduce listeners to Callie Smith, a senior at Tennessee Tech and Morgan County native double-majoring in communications and marketing. Callie is also a former Tech Trailblazer — Tech students who provide personalized campus tours for prospective students and their families — and the former sports editor for The Oracle, Tech’s student newspaper.
While still a student, Callie has landed multiple internships with national radio and podcast networks, including K-LOVE Radio, and has a podcast of her own — thanks in part to skills she learned through a podcasting class in Tech’s Department of Communication and Media.
In this interview, Callie shares about being a third generation Golden Eagle, the
support she has received from faculty mentors like Dr. Teddy Burch, and recalls how
a little determination helped her land a sought-after internship after initially facing
multiple rejections.
Episode 78: Dr. Jeannette Luna
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and Shan sit down with Dr. Jeannette Luna, assistant dean of research and graduate studies in the College of Arts & Sciences at Tennessee Tech.
Dr. Luna was recently selected by NASA as a participating scientist on the first Artemis lunar surface science team — a small, elite group of researchers supporting the agency’s upcoming crewed mission to land astronauts near the moon’s South Pole. In the episode, she shares the unforgettable moment she received the call from NASA inviting her to join the team and reflects on what this milestone means for her, her research and her students.
She also highlights the Department of Earth Sciences’ new planetary geology concentration
and looks back on her service as faculty representative on Tech’s Board of Trustees
from 2023 to 2025.
Episode 77: Sam Brooks
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and guest co-host Susan Luna-Hazlewood are joined by Sam Brooks, a two-time Tennessee Tech graduate and president of the Tech Football Quarterback Club.
Sam has been an educator in the Upper Cumberland for more than 30 years, ranging from his early days as a biology teacher at Cookeville High School and Upperman High School, to his role today as Upper Cumberland regional director for Volunteer State Community College.
In our interview, Sam discusses his passion for Golden Eagle football and how fans can get involved and show support ahead of the upcoming season. He also shares about the importance of Tech’s strong working relationship with Vol State and recalls his memories in the classroom - including some humorous (and scary) moments teaching driver’s ed.
Plus, Susan Luna-Hazlewood breaks news on the podcast by exclusively sharing the names
of the Tennessee Tech Alumni Association’s 2026 Alumni Award winners!
Episode 76: Nancy Hamilton
This week on College Town Talk, Jonathan and guest co-host Susan Luna-Hazlewood are joined by Dr. Nancy Hamilton, a two-time Tennessee Tech graduate and chair-elect of Tech’s Alumni Association Board of Directors. Dr. Hamilton also serves as a Roane County commissioner and as program director for college success at Roane State Community College.
In the interview, Dr. Hamilton reflects on her path to higher education leadership after first enrolling at Tech as a mechanical engineering major—and the unlikely journey that led her to elected office.
She also shares how a milestone birthday inspired her service on Tech’s Alumni Board
and recounts powerful stories of students she has personally supported in persisting
toward their degrees—including a single mother of five who is now set to transfer
to Tech this fall.
Episode 75: Thomas Lynn
This week on College Town Talk, we’re joined by guest co-host Susan Luna-Hazlewood, executive director of Tennessee Tech’s Crawford Alumni Center, for a special conversation with Thomas Lynn—a two-time Tech graduate, member of Tech’s Board of Trustees and chairman of the board for First National Bank of Tennessee.
Thomas is also a generous philanthropist who helped establish Mustard Seed Ranch, a home for children from difficult backgrounds to heal and grow. In 2004, he organized a concert with country music star Vince Gill to raise funds for the construction of Bell Hall, home of Tech’s Whitson-Hester School of Nursing.
In this interview, Thomas shares how he first learned of his appointment to the Board
of Trustees, the “why” behind his latest gift supporting the Professional Readiness
and Leadership (PRL) Center in the College of Business, and the inspiration behind
founding Mustard Seed Ranch in 2009. Plus, he offers practical advice for current
Tech students—including how to plan and save for the future, and what he looks for
when hiring new talent.