Anna Marie's Sunday Focus

What happens when you are wrongly convicted? There is an organization in Tennessee that is there to fight with you and for you. We sat down with Jason Gichner, Executive Director of the Tennessee Innocence Project, to learn more about the organization’s work to help correct wrongful convictions across our state. Founded in 2019, the Tennessee Innocence Project investigates and litigates credible claims of actual innocence, working to give wrongfully convicted individuals a path back to freedom and, ultimately, back to their families and communities. But the organization’s work goes beyond the courtroom. TIP also helps exonerees rebuild their lives after release, while advocating for policy changes and educating the public about the factors that can contribute to wrongful convictions. Since its founding, the organization has helped secure the exonerations of 12 people, representing more than 300 years of wrongful imprisonment. In our conversation, Gichner shared why this work matters not only to the individuals and families directly affected, but to communities across Tennessee—and why seeking justice also means working to strengthen the system so that wrongful convictions are less likely to happen in the first place.

We recently sat down with local entrepreneur and aesthetician Heidi Bellerjeau, whose personal journey is a story of reinvention, resilience and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. In her 50s, Heidi made the decision to return to school and further her education in aesthetics, skincare and the science behind beauty and wellness. After completing 750 hours of classroom and hands-on training, she achieved her goal of graduating with a renewed passion for helping both men and women better understand and care for their skin. That passion eventually led Heidi to launch her own skincare and makeup line, Salt Mineral Beauty, featuring products made with 100 percent minerals and natural ingredients. Her philosophy centers on embracing the aging process naturally and helping people feel confident without relying on harsh chemicals. But for Heidi, beauty is about more than skincare. It is also about community and giving back. A portion of every purchase through Salt Mineral Beauty supports those who are facing ocular melanoma, turning her business into another avenue for helping someone she cares deeply about. During our conversation, Heidi also opened up about the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. Having worked closely with fashion designer Kate Spade, who died by suicide in 2018, Heidi shared her firsthand perspective on how someone can struggle privately while appearing successful and happy to those around them. For Heidi, beauty and wellness are closely connected to overall well-being. Today, Heidi says her goal is simple: to help people in Nashville feel loved, confident and strong. Her story is a reminder that it is never too late to start a new chapter, pursue a passion and use your talents to make a positive impact in the community around you. Now, you can nominate someone whose confidence gives you strength to have a lipstick in the line named after them on her website. 

A Mt. Juliet mother is helping create meaningful change for children with disabilities, and she’s doing it with the support of Wilson County officials and members of her community. Jennifer Ethridge is a mother to several children, including her son Leo, who was born with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Because of his unique needs, traditional Parks & Recreation playgrounds haven’t always provided a space where Leo can safely play, explore, and have fun. But Jennifer wanted more for her son, and for other children like him. She teamed up with Mt. Juliet Parks officials and community members to turn that vision into reality. Today, LeoLand is underway and continuing to grow, creating an inclusive space where children of all abilities can play, connect, and simply be kids. We spoke with Parks Director Ross Hudson about the work that went into bringing LeoLand to life. We also spoke with local nonprofit founder Steven Whitehouse of SW & Friends, whose organization has helped provide funding to make the space even bigger and better. Find out how one mother's determination is helping build a place where every child has a chance to play.

Tala spoke with Melinda LaFollette, Musicians On Call's Director of PR & Events, and local musician Mikki Zip about the organization’s history and its mission to bring the healing power of music to patients, families and caregivers. They shared stories about the many artists who have supported the cause, the Middle Tennessee hospitals they serve and how musicians and community volunteers can get involved. Mikki also opened up about what inspired her to join the mission and the unforgettable patient experiences that have made every performance worthwhile.

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) is raising awareness about the growing threat of cryptocurrency scams and the importance of recognizing financial fraud. In our conversation with Kevin Walters, he explained their ongoing work to educate Tennesseans and strengthen protections against crypto-related fraud as well as commerce and insurance fraud throughout Tennessee.   The TDCI has warned that scammers increasingly exploit crypto kiosks to take advantage of unsuspecting victims, with more than $110 million in reported losses involving these kiosks nationwide in 2023. Tennessee’s recent ban on crypto kiosks underscores the need for continued education and awareness. Kevin also discussed other ways TDCI can support the community, including its various training programs for the Nashville Fire and Police departments. These programs equip first responders with the knowledge and tools to identify emerging scams, assist victims of financial fraud, and help protect the community.

We spoke with William Kenney of the Parkinson’s Foundation Tennessee and Kentucky Chapter about his personal connection to the organization’s mission. After witnessing his father’s experience with Parkinson’s disease firsthand, William joined the foundation to help ensure other individuals and families have access to education, resources and a supportive community throughout their journeys. He also discussed Moving Day, one of the foundation’s largest annual fundraisers, which brings the community together to celebrate movement, honor those affected by Parkinson’s and raise critical funds for research, programs and services. William shared how people can participate, support the cause and help create a future without Parkinson’s disease.

We spoke with Clip In 4 the Cure Director of Community Development LeighEllen Blevins about the high-energy team cycling event benefiting cancer initiatives at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. LeighEllen shared her personal connection to the cause and why supporting patients, families, researchers and care teams affected by cancer is so meaningful to her. We also discussed the powerful stories behind the event, where the money raised goes and how the Nashville community continues to rally around those facing cancer. From riding solo or forming a team to fundraising, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines, LeighEllen explained the many ways people can participate—regardless of their cycling experience. She also offered a look at what attendees can expect from this inspiring, high-energy event and how every rider, donation and act of support helps move us closer to a world without cancer.

We spoke with Ashleigh Gonzales, Chief Development and Marketing Officer at AncoraTN, about the organization’s work to nurture survivor healing and combat human trafficking throughout Middle Tennessee. AncoraTN provides survivors with long-term, trauma-informed support through residential and community-based services, while also working to prevent exploitation through education, advocacy and training for professionals and community members.  During our conversation, Ashleigh helped dispel common misconceptions surrounding human trafficking and explained how exploitation can involve force, fraud or coercion—not only kidnapping or physical restraint. We discussed some of the vulnerabilities and warning signs community members should recognize, how to respond safely when something does not seem right and the importance of reporting concerns rather than attempting to intervene alone. Ashleigh also previewed Flourish: A Gathering of Hope, AncoraTN’s upcoming women’s luncheon supporting survivor healing and human- trafficking prevention across Tennessee. 

The Collective in Nashville takes a holistic approach to mental health and recovery, helping individuals struggling with mental health conditions, addiction and other emotional challenges find a path toward lasting wellness. Tala spoke to founder and CEO Courtney Grimes on how this innovative program got started. Through its eight-week program, participants receive comprehensive, personalized support from nutritionists, nurse practitioners and mental health professionals, along with individual therapy, group therapy and additional healing resources. By caring for the mind, body and overall well-being, The Collective equips participants with the tools, support and stability needed to move forward.

For pregnant and parenting college students, continuing their education can feel nearly impossible without a strong support system. Tala sits down with Ella’s House founder Elise Jenkins, who shares how her own experience of discovering she was pregnant as she entered college inspired her to create the organization. We also hear from a mother who recently graduated from one of Ella’s House’s programs and learn how that support helped transform her journey. From safe housing and nutritious food to education, mentorship and long-term stability, Ella’s House of Nashville provides resources designed to protect the well-being and future of both mother and baby. We also explore the many ways the community can get involved and help these women build healthy, independent lives for themselves and their children. Find more at: https://ellashouse.org/

We explore the future of one of Nashville's most historic corridors. Jefferson Street was once the heart of Black culture, commerce, and community before the construction of Interstate 40 divided the neighborhood in the 1960s. Now, through the city's Choose How You Move initiative, a new draft plan aims to reconnect and reimagine the corridor while honoring its rich history. Justin Cole, Transportation Planner with the Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT), and Timothy Hughes, a member of the Jefferson Street Corridor Study Community Advisory Board and president of the Nashville NAACP, discuss the vision for the project and the importance of community input. They explain how the plan addresses concerns about preservation and displacement while exploring what the future could hold for residents, businesses, and visitors. They also share how Nashvillians can get involved and help shape the next chapter of Jefferson Street.

How can the right support change a student's future? In this episode, we sit down with the YMCA of Middle Tennessee to discuss the incredible impact of its Achievers program, which helped graduating seniors secure an astounding $6.2 million in scholarships this year. We talk about the importance of college and career readiness, bridging gaps in educational support, and how mentors are empowering Middle Tennessee students to pursue higher education, technical training, and meaningful careers. It's a conversation about opportunity, investing in young people, and building a stronger future for our community. We speak with two representatives from the program as well as one of the student recipients who has just been awarded scholarship money. 

As the cost of everyday essentials continues to challenge household budgets, many Middle Tennesseans are looking for ways to strengthen their financial future. On this episode, we're joined by Eric Meriweather, Managing Director and Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, to discuss practical money strategies, ways to manage rising costs, and how anyone can reset their financial goals. Whether you're working to pay down debt, grow your savings, or better prepare for the future, this conversation offers timely advice to help you make confident financial decisions, especially as the cost of living continues to rise in Middle Tennessee and beyond. 

Music & Miracles is helping people discover healing, connection, and personal growth through the evidence-based practice of music therapy. During the interview, founder and board-certified music therapist Allyson Rodgers shared how the Brentwood-based practice uses music as a therapeutic tool to support emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being for individuals, families, and groups of all ages. The conversation explored the wide range of people Music & Miracles serves—from pregnant and postpartum parents to musicians, behavioral health patients, and those in recovery—while highlighting how personalized, client-centered sessions can help address everything from anxiety and trauma to communication, cognitive, and motor skills. Rodgers also discussed the science behind music therapy, dispelled common misconceptions, and explained why no musical experience is required to experience its transformative benefits.

Former host and TV Personality Laura Schweizer decided to walk away from her role with Local on 2, WKRN News Channel 2 lifestyle show to tell stories on an even deeper level. With a heart that beats for serving others and telling meaningful stories, Laura is stepping into her new role as Executive Director of Change the Stars, a nonprofit organization that serves the needs of children in Haiti. The organization aims to rewrite the future for children lacking resources for housing, medical care, and education. How can Nashville help? The Change the Stars Gala will be held on October 1, giving local Nashvillians the opportunity to make a lasting impact on a mission that reaches far beyond our own community. Laura joins us to share why she felt called to this new chapter, the life-changing work happening in Haiti, and how one evening of generosity can help transform children's lives for years to come. She'll also share insights on how to thrive in a high-pressure, high-visibility career while protecting your mental health—a conversation that's more relevant than ever as workplaces continue to prioritize well-being alongside performance. 

Tala Shatara sits down with Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell to discuss the many ways he is fast tracking the city's needs. From year-round childcare centers that support parents to the importance of music education, Mayor O'Connell is keeping our city's children and their needs at the forefront. We also get to know him and his interests, which can sometimes be buried behind the policies and press releases. What are his favorite Nashville hotspots? From restaurants, parks, music venues and gyms, Mayor O'Connell is highlighting those who are bringing him a form of relaxation and normalcy in the city.

While she is continuously focusing on the storms moving through Middle Tennessee and South Kentucky,  WKRN Chief Meteorologist was facing a storm behind closed doors. She uses her platform to discuss her recent diagnosis of Endometriosis and her hysterectomy, helping women and men understand the complexity of this diagnosis, how she received help and how you can help others going through the same. She boasts about the wonderful work Dr. Roseann Maikis, M.D., has done to help women just like her, and says she is one of the first and only surgeons in Middle Tennessee to use a laparoscopic robot called the DaVinci to perform non-invasive and smoother procedures for endometriosis. She shares on recovery and how others can support those going through post-operative care. 

2026 has been coined as the year of health and wellness, and here in Nashville, that movement is stronger than ever. From fitness and nutrition to recovery, mental health, and preventative care, more Tala spoke with Terry Barga and Vanessa Hampton, co-founders of Nashville Fit Magazine, B2 Wellness Suites and Bodywell, about the importance of health and wellness, and why the movement is larger than ever now. We also discussed the misconception that health and wellness is only for elites, such as celebrities or athletes, when it is for everyone. They shared their free and easy ways to keep your body moving in Middle Tennessee, such as their free workouts at Riverfront Park in Downtown Nashville, and their online platforms featuring top health, fitness, nutrition and overall wellness information for the city's leading experts. people are taking a proactive approach to living healthier, more balanced lives.  

Today is World Blood Donor Day, an international day of recognition dedicated to honoring blood donors and raising awareness about the constant, life-saving need for blood donations around the world. It’s a reminder that one simple act can make an extraordinary difference for patients facing emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses, and more. Tala Shatara sits down with Jerrica Williams of the Nashville area chapter of American Red Cross to discuss the importance of donating blood, the ongoing need for donors, and how communities can unite to help save lives. Find out how community members are rolling up their sleeves for the community including one Nashville man who received his own health diagnosis from donating blood since the 90s.  

This Father’s Day, The Father’s House is redefining fatherhood—helping men show up for their families in meaningful, lasting ways and making every day feel like Father’s Day. The nonprofit supports fathers and all men transitioning back into society after incarceration, offering structure, mentorship, and life skills to help them rebuild their lives and reconnect with their children. At its core, the mission is about second chances—restoring identity, rebuilding trust, and creating stronger families one father at a time. Tala Shatara spoke with co-founder Ron Sisney on how their program serves as more than just a halfway house. Timely for Father's Day, many men facing incarceration also suffer from estranged relationships with their children -- before, during and after release from prison or jail. He shared how the program originated, the different ways they help men, including providing housing, employment and the ability to reconnect with their families. They are one of many programs that several prisons recommend and/or work with as men transition into civilian life again. 

Nashville is a hub for healthcare and medicine in Middle Tennessee. As the area grows in population and older nurses are retiring, the need for new nurses is growing.  In this Focus Interview, you'll hear from Amanda Pingston, assistant chief nursing officer at Ascension Saint Thomas West, who'll talk about why nursing is so important and fulfilling a career. She'll also talk about the affiliation the hospital has formed with Marian University, to help nurses get the training they need, including in-hospital training, and why both groups team up for an annual "Come Explore Nursing" event, at the hospital. You'll also hear from Tina Jacklyn, a student at Marian University Nashville's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, and how it's meeting her personal needs of doing something meaningful in the world. INFO ABOUT THE ANNUAL "COME EXPLORE NURSING" EVENT (2026): On April 21, 2026, Ascension Saint Thomas and Marian University’s Leighton School of Nursing will showcase the pathways to rewarding careers in a growing field at the annual “Come Explore Nursing.” This educational event provides an opportunity to meet Marian University’s faculty, admissions staff, current students, alumni and Ascension Saint Thomas nursing leadership, and to learn more about Marian University’s nursing programs. The event will take place from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 21 at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West, 4220 Harding Pike in Nashville.   To learn more and register,   visit https://cloud.email.mariannursing.com/042126CEN.

In this Focus interview, Brittany Lee, Nurse Manager for the Maternal/Newborn Center at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown, joins Anna to give expectant moms and parents info on what to expect when they deliver. The Maternal/ Newborn Center focuses on the baby and the mother, as well as education and guidance after they're released to go home.  Ascension Saint Thomas calls itself The Baby Hospital, because of its focus on babies, moms, and families before, during and after childbirth. The Baby Fair is set for Saturday, April 18th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at  Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown. There will be free "baby bump" photos, games, prizes and free seminars, birthing suite tours and free classes. This year's "Baby Fair" is Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s longest-running FREE annual event for new and expectant parents. 

Anna talks again with Paris Jackson, a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, to discuss essential tax credits and deductions to keep in mind before filing. A number of changes have been made to the 2026 tax laws, including the fact that tips are no longer taxable. Paris also outlines exactly which documents you should have ready or updated to ensure a fresh financial start this spring. Additionally, she shares advice on how to get help with budgeting and how to better secure your family’s future.

For most of our lives, there's been stigma and misinformation about women's pelvic floor disorders. It is common, but not NORMAL for a woman to experience leakage, pain and other issues. But if no one talks about it, it can't be treated. Dr. Lisa Jambusaria, MD, FACOG, is an urogynecologist with Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville and Murfreesboro and she's our guest today. She's board-certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and talks about pelvic floor disorders that affect 1 in 3 women.  Dr. Jambusaria shares signs and symptoms that women often ignore or are embarrassed to talk about, as well as non-surgical and minimally invasive surgical treatments that are now available to you, locally. You'll want to listen and share this one with every woman you know.  

Anna talks with Brandon Dyce, President & CEO of the Pet Community Center in Nashville.   With so many animal shelters experiencing an emergency overflow of unwanted pets, Pet Community Center's mission is to work on PREVENTIVE care for pets, including low-cost spay and neuter, vet services, vaccines and more... but work on a sliding scale. You can get your pets vaccinated there, and pay probably less than you are now. Even if you pay full price, you're supporting someone else who can't afford it, but needs to be able to take care of their pets. 

ShowerUp provides healthful, clean opportunities for those experiencing homelessness in Nashville, TN with mobile showers and personal hygiene necessities. Their mission is to build relationships, restore hope and dignity, to those in those in need in our city by providing them with shower services and personal care. ShowerUp volunteers make people experiencing homelessness feel "seen" and "known".  The non-profit started in Nashville, and has since spread to other cities. In this Focus Interview, ShowerUp's Executive Director, Paul Schmitz, says they're grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve in Middle TN! Click HERE to find out how to help, and to stay updated you can follow their ShowerUp  Facebook and Instagram pages!

Kimberly Fielding, founder of Kicks and Flutters Mobile Ultrasound, discusses her service.  They allow Nashville-area residents the flexibility to choose where to have your ultrasound, and who to invite. The At-Home Pregnancy Ultrasound Boutique offers 4D, 3D, & 2D technology, progress packages, live ultrasound gender reveal parties and live ultrasound baby showers. All services are in-home or at-venue and are provided by a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer with extensive experience in high-risk pregnancy and MFM ultrasound. Also, Kimberly will be Sat this year's Baby Fair in April at Ascension St. Thomas Midtown.  Read more at their website https://kicksandfluttersultrasound.com

Anna talks with Gabe Horton, Executive Director of Pawster, which is a pet fostering non-profit for pets whose person is in a crisis situation.   He discusses the reasons one might find themselves unable to care for their pets, including loss of housing, leaving a domestic violence situation, or health crisis.  Listeners also learn how they can support Pawster, either financially or as a foster pet parent.  It turns out, you don't have to have intense training or be at home all day to foster a pet.  Get more details here:   https://pawsternashville.org/ Please enjoy some heartwarming Pawster reunions here: https://youtu.be/HCMx1TBHzPg?feature=shared https://youtu.be/PZ-PNkzLByY?feature=shared https://youtu.be/NYtpypgnIJk?feature=shared https://youtu.be/UT1blNrn4jg?feature=shared

Dean Miller has developed a powerful and revolutionary new approach to dog training. His teaching methods begin to show results in the first few minutes. In fact, in one hour, most dog owners find they have changed their relationship with their dog for the better! In this podcast, hear how that works!  In Dean's book "A Dogs Way," he helps you discover how dogs think, what motivates them, and how they express their feelings. Once you understand your dog's language, you can better communicate what behaviors you want.  Dean also offers private instruction in obedience, behavior problems, aggression and various other dog and owner related issues.  Get more info at thedogcounselor.com

In this focus, Angelica Franzino-Brown, the Vice President of Artistic Planning at the Nashville Symphony, talks about the new Music Director, new shows on the way (including a collaboration with Dolly Parton), ways YOU can see a free concert, family shows, a musical petting zoo and something newcomers to symphony shows should know about CLAPPING during a performance.  She also shares some specifics about what guest performers have asked to have in their dressing rooms! One popular request is Soup! You’ve got to hear all about it! Find out more about events, schedules and tickets at www.nashvillesymphony.org

Anna learns something about cars, how they work, and how to keep them working from Charlie Dubois, lead technician of Good Honest Mechanic in Hendersonville, TN. Charlie includes things you need to know about your car that are COMPLETELY different from cars just a few years ago. What systems are being run from computers, and what happens if the computer needs a tweak?  Plus, things that wear out and can cause a LOT of damage if you’re not having them checked when you should.  When you fill the car, do you stop fueling up when the pump handle clicks off, or do you click it a couple more times to make sure it’s full? One is the right way, the other is dangerous to you and to your auto.  Save yourself some headaches and money with this car information 

Heather Gallagher Director of the Beaman Park Nature Center, gives info about what’s happening in this Spring at Beaman Park, and tells us the SYSTEMS in place to help you know where you are, where you’re headed, or how easy it is to get help if you get lost! There are three main trailheads, located in the northwest edge of Davidson County on the Highland Rim. Walking or hiking levels range from accessible to more challenging. Beaman Park has diverse plant and animal life, hikes, a lending library you can use while you’re there, and educational programs.  Details: Ecosystem: A rare Highland Rim forest with unique plant communities, including rare orchids and sunflowers. Wildlife: Home to deer, bobcats, foxes, and various reptiles and amphibians.   Beaman Park is open dawn to dusk, seven days a week, and the Center Hours are generally Tuesday through Friday - Noon to 4pm, and Saturday - 9am to 4pm. Heather Gallagher says the best time to visit Beaman Park and Beaman Park Nature Center is .. TODAY!   (Dogs allowed, public restrooms, picnic tables) 5911 Old Hickory Blvd, Ashland City, TN 37015 Read more HERE.  

As many Nashvillians and Middle Tennesseans continue to rebuild after our massive ice storm, Anna chats with someone who knows all about insurance claims.   The guest is Kevin Walters, spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance who advises you on the importance of filing claims rather than just waiting/hoping for FEMA checks that many never come.  He offers info to help you file correctly, as some  just don't understand their homeowners' insurance policy. He also tells you what to do if you feel you've been wrongly denied a claim. 

There's a lot of damage to clean up after Nashville's recent deadly ice storm. Before you hire ANYONE to help you recover from the winter storm and ice damage, know that scammers are here NOW, knocking on doors, claiming they can help, repair, even file your insurance claims for you. Robyn Householder, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky lists the top scams, and tells you how to NOT get taken advantage of. Robyn lists "Red Flags" to look out for when someone offers you a deal, including a company vehicle that's NOT marked with company logo, or someone urging you to make a decision NOW.  Don't do it! Hear more in this interview, and make the BBB one of your first calls if you have any questions about a business, or if you think you've been scammed. More info at bbb.org or www.bbb.org/scamtracker 

Financial Advisor Paris Jackson with Northwestern Mutual talks to Anna about paying for the repairs to your property caused by the recent Middle TN ice storm. She talks about where to find the money in your budget to build your savings or emergency fund - including how to "buckle down!" Paris also gives ideas about ways to pay for repairs (since every repair doesn't have to be made immediately) and the deductibles involved, and what to look for in your homeowners insurance policy. Most importantly, she says, is to ASSESS where you are, what expenses you're facing, and - if needed - ask for help. 

In this episode, the guest is Dr. Joseph Sharpe, Chief Medical Officer at Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital. He talks about how to beat the winter blues.  He says it can be a serious issue in January and February, especially, here in Middle Tennessee with the short days, cloudy conditions, and isolation caused by weather.  He says regular sleep is vital, as well as exercise and healthful food.  Getting out of the house and socializing is also important. Hear more about how to deal with it, in this interview.  Read more about Dr. Sharpe HERE. 

Anna talks with Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Stephen Rich of Ascension Saint Thomas in Murfreesboro.  The doctor discusses various weight loss options, including medication, Behavior changes and surgery. Dr Rich says obesity is a disease, not a character fault. Everyone is different and may need a different approach from someone else with the same illness. Hear more options, and why not to give up hope that you can get back to a healthy body and a healthy life.

Anna interviews Alan Pruitt, Tennessee State Advocate for the Middle Tennessee Area of Tops (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly). They talk about the power of starting SLOW with Weight Loss. Most people have started, and stopped, and started again, on various weight-loss plans, and lost (then gained back) hundreds of pounds.  Alan discusses some things we're missing in sustaining weight loss: starting slow, making sustainable goals, SUPPORT, and taking advantage of digital tools we didn't have before. The non-profit, noncommercial weight loss support and education group TOPS Club, Inc. can help.  Read more at https://www.tops.org/home 

It's the time to start thinking about which school is right for your child in the Metro system.  Anna talks with Shelby Doyle, Sr. VP of Policy and International Partnerships at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation.

NASHVILLE AND MIDSTATE HOSPITALS NAMED TOP IN THE NATION* U.S. News and World Report and Forbes have listed several local hospitals as cream of the crop! For Maternity Care, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown (sometimes called “The Baby Hospital”, for delivering more babies than any other hospital in the state) has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of 2026’s “Nation’s Best Hospitals.”     In this episode of Focus, Richelle Graham, Chief Nursing Officer at Ascension Saint Thomas, Midtown, tells what it takes to reach that level of excellence. Specialized areas include Care for Moms and Babies, including even the most complex pregnancies, and a full continuum of services, including certified nurse midwives and an experienced team of OB physicians, neonatal nurses and maternal fetal medicine specialists. She also talks about pre and post natal support and educational programs. You can find out more about them HERE. *U.S. News and World Report also ranked Vanderbilt University Medical Center as number 1 in Nashville and Tennessee, and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt recognized as one of the top Children’s Hospitals in the nation. And Williamson Medical Center has been named on Forbes Magazine’s inaugural “Top Hospitals” 2026 list.

Anna speaks with Psychologist Dr. Kathryn Sherrod, PhD, about how children cope with the excitement and occasional overwhelming events of the holiday season.  Also, ways we as adults can face relatives who "push our buttons" and irritate us to the extreme on family get-togethers.

Anna Marie talks with Dawn Rutledge of the YMCA of Middle Tennessee about the organizations many activities.  They include: Northwest Xmas Tree1 – The YMCA of Middle Tennessee invites the community to join in spreading some joy and give a little extra support to families who need it this holiday season. Several YMCA locations are partnering with various organizations and encouraging others to join in holiday-themed events, provide gifts for individuals in need and help to ensure people have access to essential supplies and resources this winter. Strengthening community.. Every day, we work side by side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone—regardless of age, income or background—has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Y-CAP Student Champion Awards – Since 1986, Y-CAP has been empowering students across Middle Tennessee to succeed through literacy tutoring, social and emotional learning programs, and college and career readiness resources—all at no cost. BreastCancer 2 – This year, the YMCA of Middle Tennessee celebrated 25 years of offering the After Breast Cancer program. AOA - The YMCA of Middle Tennessee offers a variety of wellness opportunities for Active Older Adults. Full Circle is a YMCA outreach program that gives individuals with an intellectual and/or developmental disability access to classes and activities that encourage self-sufficiency, socialization and staying active. Health and Fitness The YMCA of Middle Tennessee has a variety of programs and classes to help you achieve your unique health and wellness goals.    

Anna discusses the work of the Greater Nashville United Way. At United Way of Greater Nashville, their mission is to unite the community and mobilize resources so that every child, individual and family thrives. So many people are struggling right now, and don't know where to start, to get help. Ace Timmermeier, the Director, Regional Community Impact, says United Way can be your first stop to find the resources you need. They work to ensure that all families have a stable place to call home, food to eat and support in times of crisis. Hear https://www.unitedwaygreaternashville.org/

As we turn the page on a new year, Paige Zulandt, Regional Communications Manager with the American Red Cross of Tennessee asks donors  to make an appointment to give lifesaving blood or platelets now to help keep the blood supply strong during National Blood Donor Month in January. As a special thank-you to donors for helping address the need for blood during the critical post-holiday time, those who come to give Jan. 1-26, 2025, will be automatically entered for a chance to win an exciting Super Bowl LIX giveaway. For full details, check out the attached news release and  www.RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl

Anna talks with Salvation Army Area Commander Bill Mockabee, who says our financial support  helps them provide clothing, food, rent and utility help for families in crisis, a summer camp for kids, supportive housing including life navigation education, disaster services, the Annual Angel Tree program, and so much more. You'll be surprised to hear how far-reaching those dollars given to the Salvation Army can be.   It goes well beyond the annual Angel Tree Program, that provides toys, clothing and household items for families in need. When you donate at a Salvation Army Bell-ringer location, via cash or by scanning a code, or whether you donate online or in the mail, your money helps people in our community all year long!  Above all, your dollars help provide hope for our brothers and sisters in need.   Click HERE  for more information. 

Insurance is a Confusing topic. Health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance, disability and long-term care insurance.. How do we get what we need, and where do we even start? Today's guest is Paris Jackson, Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, and she's going to give you some simple, do-able financial things today, with a focus on Insurance. Be ready to take some notes if you can!  Here's the link to get in touch with her:  LINK

Our tenth Mayor of Metro Nashville Davidson County joins us in this podcast. Mayor Freddie O'Connell updates us on the progress that's been made during the first two years of his term, including the "Choose How You Move" transportation program, which focuses on four key areas: sidewalks, signals, service, and safety. The initiative aims to make streets safer for everyone and includes upgrades like smart traffic signals, expanded public transit services, and new sidewalks. The Mayor also talks about partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank to help get food into the hands of citizens, and how we can help! Find out more about it, and see how you can get help at this LINK : https://www.nashville.gov/featured-initiatives/transit/choose-how-you-move

Anna talks with a representative of Get Covered Tennessee, which offers free, unbiased, one-on-one assistance to help people understand their health care options and sign up for health insurance coverage. It's led by Family & Children’s Service that helps Tennesseans navigate their way through the confusion, and find the quality healthcare that fits their needs and their finances. Whether you're dealing with the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid (TennCare), the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CoverKids), or other community-based healthcare services, GetCoveredTennessee can help! In this interview Aida Whitfield, Program Director, Healthcare Access Program - ACA, tells you how to get this free help, in person or over the phone, and what deadlines you'll need to meet to get your best options.  For more information: Website: www.getcoveredtenn.org   Phone: 1-866-475-7879

In this Podcast, Lieutenant Bill Miller shares some of the knowledge he's learned in his decades-long career with the Tennessee Highway Patrol. This includes keeping your child, and yourself, safe in vehicles. He also explains how to get your child safety seat installation inspected, or how to get the seat installed correctly, if you're not sure. Miller talks about the one demographic most likely to violate safety belt laws, and what you should change out if you've had a crash that made your seatbelts lock up to hold you in place.  This is truly an interview that could save your life! Please listen and please share!

Anna talks with Brandon Dyce, President & CEO of the Pet Community Center in Nashville.   With so many animal shelters experiencing an emergency overflow of unwanted pets, Pet Community Center's mission is to work on PREVENTIVE care for pets, including low-cost spay and neuter, vet services, vaccines and more... but work on a sliding scale. You can get your pets vaccinated there, and pay probably less than you are now. Even if you pay full price, you're supporting someone else who can't afford it, but needs to be able to take care of their pets.