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
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 ...
Justin Maierhofer, Vice President for the Northern Region of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), joins Spencer and Carli to delve into TVA's role in energy generation, environmental stewardship, and economic development. Justin explains TVA’s diverse energy mix, the importance of public power, and how the organization is working towards a resilient and sustainable future.
This week, Carli sits down with Lindsey Norton, founder and executive director of Hope House, Tennessee's only home for teenage parents. She shares her journey from being a labor and delivery nurse to addressing the urgent need for housing and support for teen moms. Norton discusses the challenges, the vision for Hope House, and the unique trauma-informed design of the facility. Learn about the incredible resilience of teen mo...
This episode features Laura Scoggins, a seasoned real estate agent with Benchmark Realty, and Jenny Haines Douglas, Senior Loan Officer at Movement Mortgage. Together, they break down the current state of the housing market in Middle Tennessee, offering expert strategies on navigating high prices and interest rates. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or considering a market investment, learn valuable tips on financing, the ...
Rachel Guymon, the Director of Special Events for the Tennessee Titans discusses the diverse range of events hosted at the Titans stadium. She highlights the extensive use of the stadium for corporate, private, and community events, totaling nearly 300 days of activity annually. Rachel also shares exciting details about the new stadium set to open in early 2027, including its advanced facilities and potential for hosting significan...
Sarah Mattson, Director of Entrepreneurship for the City of Chattanooga, discusses the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Chattanooga. This conversation sheds light on Chattanooga’s unique blend of big city amenities with a small-town feel, driven by its exceptional digital and outdoor assets. Sarah elaborates on her role in fostering a supportive environment for small businesses, emphasizing the importance of listening to entrep...
In this episode, Becca Stevens, an author, speaker, Episcopal priest, and social entrepreneur, discusses the profound impact of Thistle Farms—a global movement she founded to support women survivors of trafficking, addiction, and sexual exploitation. Becca shares the origins of Thistle Farms in Nashville, her personal journey of overcoming trauma, and the importance of community in the healing process. The episode delves into her p...
In this episode, we sit down with Heather Middleton, the Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Music City. Throughout the conversation, Heather shares insights into Nashville's booming tourism industry, touching upon the economic impact of visitors, including astonishing stats like the $29 million spent daily in Nashville. Heather sheds light on the roles and strategies behind marketing the city not just to national tourists but a...
Rikki Harris, CEO of Tennessee Voices, joins the conversation to discuss the pressing mental health issues Tennesseans face and the state's unique preventive measures. The episode delves into Tennessee Voices' mission, emphasizing collaboration and community-focused care, while also exploring the challenges of nonprofit leadership. Harris shares insights into effective self-care for mental health professionals, the import...
Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Drew D'Agostino, Founder of Crystal.
In this episode, Drew D'Agostino, founder and CEO of Crystal, dives deep into the realms of AI and Bitcoin. Intended for Tennesseans by Tennesseans, the discussion explores Drew's journey in the tech space, from creating a popular Chrome extension for LinkedIn to navigating ethical dilemmas in AI application. Drew also shares insights on leveraging AI for business growth, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and his unique...
Sit down with Spencer Patton and Carli Patton as they recap what they learned while talking with Brooks Herring, singer-songwriter.
Brooks Herring, a Navy veteran and Nashville-based singer-songwriter, joins Spencer and Carli to share his journey from military service to the music scene. Growing up with a passion for music, Brooks discovered its power as a constant during his deployments, even mailing himself a guitar to Iraq. His time in the Navy and as a contractor in Afghanistan shaped both his perspective and his music, leading him to write deeply personal ...
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