Growing Pains: Exploring The Challenges in a Thriving Sumner County

Moving Sumner Forward
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Government
  • Updated Weekly

Growing Pains is a podcast about the choices and challenges shaping Sumner County. Host Deanne DeWitt talks with local leaders, neighbors, and decision-makers about how a thriving community handles growth, opportunity, and the tough calls that come with both. Brought to you by the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus. Learn more at https://republicanfreedomcaucus.com/

  1. Aug 6

    The Secret to Building a Business That Gives Back | Eric Blankenship

    In this episode of Growing Pains, Deanne DeWitt sits down with entrepreneur, musician, and All Access Coach Leasing co-owner Eric Blankenship to talk about what it really takes to build a successful business while investing in the community around you. From starting a company with just $5,000 and a credit card to growing it into one of Middle Tennessee's leading transportation companies, Eric shares the lessons he's learned about perseverance, leadership, and taking calculated risks. The conversation explores responsible growth, supporting local businesses, workforce development, and why thriving communities depend on entrepreneurs who are willing to give back. Eric also reflects on his lifelong passion for music, the unexpected success of his weekly performances, and how building relationships has opened doors he never imagined. Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who cares about the future of your community, this episode is filled with practical wisdom on leadership, generosity, and creating opportunities that last. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  2. Jul 30

    Matt Shoaf Makes Everyone Mad... Here's Why

    Why would someone proudly say they "make everyone mad"? In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Sumner County Commissioner and Budget Committee Chairman Matt Shoaf for a candid conversation about leadership, local government, and why meaningful change often requires difficult conversations. What begins as a lighthearted joke quickly turns into a thoughtful discussion about public service, political disagreement, budgeting, taxes, education, and the future of Tennessee communities. Matt shares why he first entered public office, what surprised him most about serving on the County Commission, and why good leaders must be willing to talk with people they disagree with. Whether you're interested in leadership, local politics, technology, or building stronger communities, this episode offers an honest and thought-provoking look at the challenges facing Sumner County and the conversations that shape its future. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  3. Jul 23

    Can Community Service Change Tennessee Politics? | with Brian Stewart

    In this episode of Growing Pains, Deanne DeWitt sits down with Brian Stewart, owner of One Stop Realty & Auction, former Sumner County Commissioner, community advocate, and candidate for the Tennessee House of Representatives. Brian shares the experiences that shaped his commitment to public service, from building a successful local business to investing in nonprofits, supporting first responders, and serving his community through elected office. The conversation explores some of the biggest issues facing Sumner County and Tennessee, including housing affordability, education, infrastructure, public safety, and responsible growth. Brian discusses why communication, transparency, and keeping promises are essential qualities for public leadership, while reflecting on the lessons he learned as a county commissioner and how they have prepared him for the next step in public service. Whether you're interested in local government, community leadership, or the future of Tennessee, this episode offers an inside look at the values, priorities, and vision driving one candidate's campaign and his passion for serving others. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  4. Jul 16

    Why Long-Term Thinking Matters More Than the Next Election | with Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Dennis Cavin

    Lt. General (Ret.) Dennis Cavin returns to Growing Pains to discuss how the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus has evolved and where it hopes to lead the community in the years ahead. Rather than focusing solely on elections, this conversation explores the bigger picture of leadership, civic responsibility, long-term planning, and preparing the next generation to serve. Dennis shares why mentoring future leaders, encouraging informed voters, and thinking beyond the next election cycle are critical to preserving what makes Sumner County unique. The discussion also touches on responsible growth, education, infrastructure, and the role every resident can play in shaping the county's future. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  5. Jul 9

    Is Civil Discourse Is Dying? Here's Why Local Journalists Still Believe in It with Scott Couch

    What makes journalism trustworthy? In this episode, Deanne DeWitt sits down with veteran Fox 17 anchor Scott Couch to discuss a career spent telling the stories of Middle Tennessee. Scott reflects on the changing media landscape, the importance of credibility, and why good journalism isn't about telling people what to think but giving them the information they need to make up their own minds. The conversation also explores growth in Sumner County, the value of civil discourse, and what gives Scott hope after decades of reporting on the people and communities that call Middle Tennessee home. At its core, this episode is about character, curiosity, and the enduring belief that informed communities make stronger communities. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  6. Jun 25

    How Habitat for Humanity Is Fighting The Housing Crisis with Kate Richie & Ciera Holman

    What does housing affordability actually look like on the ground? In this episode, Deanne DeWitt sits down with Kate Ritchie and Cierra Homan of Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County to discuss the growing challenge of affordable housing and the life-changing impact of homeownership. They share how Habitat's model works, why homeownership creates opportunities that extend far beyond a mortgage payment, and what they're seeing firsthand as rising housing costs put pressure on working families across Sumner County. Along the way, they tell stories of resilience, community support, and the families whose lives have been transformed through stable housing. The conversation also explores Habitat's newest neighborhood project, The Hudson, and what it reveals about the future of affordable housing in rapidly growing communities. At its heart, this episode is about hope, opportunity, and what becomes possible when a community decides to invest in its people.

  7. Jun 18

    Why Johnny Garrett Wants to Take Tennessee to D.C.

    In this episode of Growing Pains, Deanne DeWitt sits down with Tennessee State Representative and Congressional candidate Johnny Garrett for a conversation about leadership, public service, and the future of Tennessee. From his roots in Goodlettsville to his years serving in the Tennessee General Assembly, Johnny reflects on the experiences that shaped his approach to governing and the lessons he's learned making difficult decisions on behalf of his community. The conversation explores Tennessee's rapid growth, infrastructure challenges, education, economic opportunity, and the responsibility leaders have to think beyond the next election cycle. Johnny also shares why he's taking on a new challenge by running for Congress and what he believes Tennessee can teach the rest of the country about leadership, fiscal responsibility, and community values. At its core, this episode is about stewardship, how we preserve what makes a place feel like home while preparing for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

  8. Jun 4

    The Truth About Election Security in Tennessee

    In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Sumner County Administrator of Elections Lori Atchley for an inside look at how elections are actually run and why trust in the process matters. Drawing from more than 15 years of experience overseeing elections in one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing counties, Atchley explains the systems, safeguards, and people working behind the scenes to ensure every vote is counted accurately and securely. As Sumner County continues to grow, our discussion also highlights the challenges of managing elections for a rapidly expanding population, increasing voter access, and encouraging greater participation in local races. With voter turnout remaining one of Tennessee’s biggest challenges, this episode serves as both an educational resource and a reminder of the importance of civic engagement. Whether you're a regular voter or someone who wants to better understand how elections work, this conversation provides valuable insight into one of the most important functions of local government. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

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Growing Pains is a podcast about the choices and challenges shaping Sumner County. Host Deanne DeWitt talks with local leaders, neighbors, and decision-makers about how a thriving community handles growth, opportunity, and the tough calls that come with both. Brought to you by the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus. Learn more at https://republicanfreedomcaucus.com/

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