Signature Required with Spencer Patton
We talk with Tennessee leaders—business owners, policy experts, educators, and residents—who champion the entrepreneurial spirit and transform once-small ideas into big impact.
Episodes
In this episode, Chattanooga's Mayor Tim Kelly shares his journey from business to politics and how he’s driving the city’s transformation through economic mobility, early childhood education, and public-private partnerships. This conversation was recorded in April, 2025.
This week, we sit down with Erik Schelzig, editor for the Tennessee Journal and co-author of 'Welcome to Capitol Hill: 50 Years of Scandal in Tennessee Politics'. Erik shares captivating stories from his 20-year career covering the Tennessee State House, discusses the challenges facing the media industry, and provides insights into major political scandals in Tennessee's history. Tune in today.
In this episode, James Pond, CEO of the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation, shares why early literacy matters and how programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, book buses, and storybook trails are helping Tennessee kids thrive.
In this candid conversation, recorded as part of an exit interview, former U.S. Congressman Mark Green (TN-7) reflects on his years in public service and his decision to step away from Congress. No topic or question was off-limits, as Green shared his professional experiences, personal challenges, and hopes for Tennessee’s future.
In this episode, Dr. Cynthia Osborne, founder and executive director of the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Peabody College, discusses the importance of early childhood development and the impact of state policies on families and children. Dr. Osborne explains why the prenatal-to-3 period is crucial for brain development, highlights effective policies that support families, and shares the groundbreaking Begin Bright program a...
Dr. LaTonya Mouzon, Executive Director of Arise2Read, a Memphis-based literacy nonprofit, joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of literacy in early education. Tune in today!
Join us this week as we dive into the Begin Bright initiative with Elizabeth Atack and Elizabeth Sherrard from the Nashville Public Library. Discover how this program is providing books, literacy resources, and crucial early education support to children and families across Davidson County. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the future of our community's literacy and education.
In this episode, Dr. Lisa Piercey, a physician, healthcare entrepreneur, and the former Tennessee Commissioner of Health, shares her remarkable journey from a pediatrician to an influential healthcare leader and author of 'Natural Born Entrepreneurs.' Dr. Piercey discusses her passion for serving rural communities, the complexities of mid-career reinvention, and the intricacies of healthcare acquisitions. Learn how her un...
This week, we sat down with Dr. Leah Melber, President & CEO of the Adventure Science Center. She shares her journey from studying zoology to leading one of Tennessee’s largest science centers, highlighting the exhibits, community outreach, and events that make it a Nashville favorite. A must-listen for parents, educators, and science enthusiasts alike.
In this episode, Stacey Nickens, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Nashville International Airport (BNA), shares how one of the fastest-growing airports in the country is becoming a true reflection of Nashville’s culture. From live music and local dining to world-class art, discover how BNA is transforming travel into a uniquely Nashville experience—while undergoing a $3 billion expansion to connect Middle Tennessee to ...
In this episode, Sheila Noone, Communications Manager at the Museum of Science and History (MoSH), shares exciting details about the museum's rich history and diverse exhibits. Learn about the transformation of the historic Pink Palace mansion, originally built by entrepreneur Clarence Saunders, into a vibrant museum. Sheila delves into the variety of permanent and traveling exhibits, including geology displays, evolutionary e...
We’re kicking off Season 2 of Signature Required with a special episode featuring Thom Demas, Vice President and Chief Husbandry & Exhibits Officer at the Tennessee Aquarium. Thom shares his unexpected journey from managing auto parts stores to leading marine biology efforts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at animal care, conservation work, and the art of exhibit design. This episode is both educational and fun. Tune in now!
We’re taking a summer break and will return with new episodes on August 5th! Until then, we hope you enjoy this special anniversary episode where Spencer and Carli celebrate one year of Signature Required by reflecting on their journey and sharing highlights from 52 guests. From insightful conversations about the charm of Tennessee to heartfelt stories from nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs, it’s been a year packed with inspirati...
This week, we spoke with Dr. Jeremy Qualls, the Executive Director for the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) and Career & Technical Programs at Williamson County Schools. Dr. Qualls shares the origin and growth of the EIC, an incubator space for student entrepreneurs. He discusses the unique educational approach of the EIC that emphasizes hands-on experience, mentorship, and soft skills. Tune in today!
Carli sits down with Darren Andrus, Lydia Burton, and Reese Greenman from the Tennessee Baptist Children's Homes to discuss their work with children and families in crisis. The conversation sheds light on the unique aspects of residential group homes, the process of reunification with families, and the challenges and rewards of working with children who have experienced trauma. The guests also share inspiring stories and the v...
This week, we are joined by the Deputy Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Andy Holt to discuss the vital role of agriculture and forestry in Tennessee. Holt shares insights from his personal journey, from working on a ranch in Wyoming, serving as a state legislator, and now promoting Tennessee agriculture worldwide. Learn about the state's rich agricultural history, the diverse commodities it produces, a...
This week, Carli and I are joined by Sean Phipps, Director of Marketing for the Chattanooga Tourism Co., as we explore the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Sean shares the city's unique history, key attractions, and its incredible transformation from 'America's dirtiest city' to a National Park City. We discuss Chattanooga's burgeoning cultural and culinary scene, the International Bluegrass Music Associati...
What does it take to lead disaster relief across 98 counties—and rally thousands of volunteers to answer the call? In this episode, I sit down with Joel Sullivan, Regional Executive of the American Red Cross Tennessee Region, to talk about the mission behind the organization, the power of preparedness, and the incredible stories of service that keep it all moving.
In this episode, Commissioner Brad Turner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging shares insights into his groundbreaking role. Brad discusses the integration of the Department of Disability and Aging, the importance of advocacy for people with disabilities, successful programs like MAPS and the Katie Beckett Fund, and innovative partnerships aimed at improving the lives of aging Tennesseans. Tune in to learn how the de...
Brittany Schaffer, the Dean of the School for Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University shares her journey from high school debate team to Vanderbilt, and her transition from the legal field to academia. She discusses the unique educational opportunities at Belmont, such as the innovative 'Dolly U' program in partnership with Dolly Parton. Brittany dives deep into the collaborative spirit of Nashville's ...
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