Uniting Through Conversation: The Work of the Conversation Coalition Nashville and the Importance of Getting Out of Your Echo Chamber Plus News and Events

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante starts the show with some important information on the huge impact to Tennesseans from Trump’s Big Bad Bill. Len then welcomes the Conversation Coalition, represented by Elliot and Gary. The Conversation Coalition is an initiative aimed at fostering genuine dialogue between diverse perspectives, particularly between believers and non-believers. Elliot and Gary discuss the importance of understanding and respectful conversation in a polarized world, sharing their experiences of bridging gaps through monthly events where challenging topics are discussed in a moderated but open format. Upcoming events include a discussion on 'Death and Suffering' and a debate titled 'Who are the True Christians?' The episode also touches upon the importance of breaking out of echo chambers, the misconceptions people hold about those with differing views, and the personal satisfaction derived from engaging in deep, meaningful conversations.

Listeners are encouraged to attend these events, explore different viewpoints, and strive for greater empathy and understanding.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

- Easy link to email your Representatives,

- Upcoming take action events,

- A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things,

- Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.

Conversation Coalition Nashville

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conconashville/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theconversationcoalition/

Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry

AmandaJGentry.com

Artemis CPA

https://artemis.cpa/

On this week’s show, Len interviews Lawrence Hill, the parent of an autistic person. We review what autism is and how, sadly, sometimes care suffers from the politicization of healthcare and other issues.

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TLO S03 E28 Remember Schoolhouse Rock? Understanding Civics and Democracy with Vol State’s Civics Minute

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Carolina Kelly is joined by Grady Eades and Brady Duncan to discuss their project Civics Minute, an educational series aimed at simplifying and disseminating fundamental civics knowledge. Grady, an associate professor of history, and Brady, an adjunct instructor, both from Volunteer State Community College, share the motivations behind this initiative and outline how it aims to bridge the gap in public understanding of government functions and constitutional principles. What are the challenges of making educational content engaging and accessible, highlighting their strategy to produce short, digestible video clips?

Additionally, the conversation touches upon the current state of American democracy, the implications of recent legislative actions, and the importance of civic participation.

This episode also examines issues related to immigration, freedom of speech, and the impact of book bans on education.

Note: The host erroneously stated the Library Board’s anti-trans book ban passed. It was actually voted down but a local news station jumped the gun and reported that it had passed.

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Civics Minute YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@CivicsMinute

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The Loyal Opposition - Sumner County Continues to Produce World Class Music And Highlights Vol State Students Making It Happen

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante takes the reins solo to present a special all-musical edition of the show. Michele is off and Carolina arrives late, but the energy remains high. Len kicks off the episode with an introduction to the Luggnutts, a bluegrass band with roots in Castilian Springs, who perform a tribute to the historic Possum Hunters—a band that played a significant role in the birth of American country music and opened the Grand Ole Opry. Special guest Cole Shepherd, a Gallatin-based Vol State student recording engineer, shares his experiences working on the Luggnutts' album at the world-class studio at Vol State. Listeners are treated to a historical overview of the Possum Hunters and their impact on American music, touching on their significant contributions and the upcoming 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry. The episode includes a lively discussion on the making of the tribute album, its relation to the upcoming celebration events, and the unique recording process.

Later in the show, Len and Carolina introduce Sweet Mylo, the musical duo comprised of Kevin and Grace Jones. The couple shares their musical journey, the creation of their album 'Melancholy Before Matrimony,' Also mostly recorded at Vol State, and their deep influence from 60s and 70s pop rock, particularly Lennon-McCartney. The episode concludes with the debut of their song 'The Three of Us,' a perfect summer driving tune. Sweet Mylo's upcoming performance details and vinyl pre- order information wrap up this rich exploration of Sumner County's vibrant musical landscape.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the

current political environment. You will find:

- Easy link to email your Representatives,

- Upcoming take action events,

- A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things,

- Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our

show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/

Sumner County Museum. Learn about the Possum Hunters and purchase the album.

https://www.sumnercountymuseum.org/possum-hunters-project

Vol State Entertainment Media Production

https://www.volstate.edu/humanities/entertainment

Sweet Mylo can be found on all the streaming services and social media. Vinyl pre-orders available until August 25th!! Pre-order the vinyl below.

https://www.diggersfactory.com/artist/2905/sweet-mylo

The Loyal Opposition 0325

Sumner County Democratic Party Update

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Carolina Kelly interview Megan Lange, Chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party about what’s happenning locally and with state Democrats. We cover a recent library board decision that resulted in a win for free speech, the Sumner County People’s Town Hall, teh Good Trouble rally and the upcoming 3-Star Celebration fundraiser. Keynote speakers were teased. All we will say is that one has been on the show and other will be soon.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment.

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The Loyal Opposition 0324

Civilian Civics Corps - A Paid Internship to Boost Youth Political and Civil Engagement

Plus Adequate Fire Protection Coverage Emergency Response in Sumner County: A Deep Dive

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Carolina Kelly discuss the importance of representation and diversity in government policymaking. They are joined by Wyatt Basso from the Civilian Civics Corps, who shares insights into their initiative aimed at educating young people on campaign mechanics and increasing civic engagement. Wyatt also discusses the broader importance of turning low-turnout voters into active participants in the political process.

The second segment transitions to a focus on fire safety issues in Sumner County. Curtis Williams and Henry DeGroot join the discussion to elaborate on the challenges facing both volunteer and professional fire departments. They delve into the types of mutual aid agreements in place, the critical need for better funding, and the financial comparison between urban and rural fire services. The show wraps up with actionable steps for residents who want to support local fire departments and ensure better fire safety for all citizens.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Tennessee Civilian Civics Corps

https://aftynbehnfortn.substack.com/p/help-us-fund-the-civilian-civic-corps

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment.

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The Loyal Opposition

S03 E22 Empowering Voices: Women’s Reproductive Rights and Community

Involvement and Len’s Big Network Debut

In this episode of 'The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante, alongside co-hosts Michele Harbin and Carolina Kelly, engage in a vibrant discussion around women’s rights and community involvement. We cover the impact of the Nashville Pride event, Alliance for Recreational Empowerment camp, and the critical state of women’s reproductive healthcare in Tennessee and the work of Protecting Reproductive Health and the Tennessee Freedom Circle. Special guests Sandra Gaskins and Stephanie Barkett discuss alarming healthcare laws and their implications, emphasizing ways to get involved and advocate for change. The show also highlights the Sumner County Democratic Party’s initiative to support candidates interested in running for office, featuring insights from Holly Cruz. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the state of women’s health in Tennessee and a lively dialogue on civic duties, empowerment, and the importance of diverse voices in governance with Len and a bunch of angry women.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found on wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the

current political environment. You will find:

- Easy link to email your Representatives,

- Upcoming take action events,

- A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things,

- Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.

https://www.theloyalopposition.online/

Sumner County NAACP

https://naacpsumnercounty.org/

Alliance or Recreational Empowerment

http://allianceforrecreationalempowerment.org/index.php

Protecting Reproduction Health

https://www.protectingreprohealth.com/

Tennessee Freedom Circle

https://tnfreedomcircle.com/

Sumner County Democratic Party

https://sumnerdems.org/

Please support our advertisers and sponsors:

Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry: AmandaJGentry.com

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TLO S03 E21. Amplifying Voices and Building Community Connections

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, we start the show with Hollis Rutledge and Leigh Roach from the Sumner County NAACP, who discuss the launch of the Women’s Committee or Women In the NAACP (WIN), an initiative to gather and empower women in the community. They detail their upcoming events, including a special luncheon with keynote speaker Debra Alston Barr and a panel featuring notable local women.

Len and Carolina next talk with Brandi Fleck, the owner of Intuitive Body Work and the host of the Human Amplified podcast. Brandi shares her journey of creating a platform that amplifies diverse voices and humanizes stories, born out of a desire to connect people and promote empathy. She discusses the intersection of her podcasting work with her roles as a trauma-informed coach and Reiki practitioner, highlighting the importance of healing and personal growth.

The episode concludes with insights into the future plans for both The Loyal Opposition and Human Amplified, along with calls to action for community participation and upcoming events.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

- Easy link to email your Representatives,

- Upcoming take action events,

- A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things,

- Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our

show.

https://www.theloyalopposition.online/

Sumner County NAACP

https://naacpsumnercounty.org/

Human Amplified podcast

Available on all streaming platforms

And find us at @humanamplified on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube

Intuitive Body Work

https://www.intuitivebodyworktn.com/

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Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com

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This week we recap the Sumner County edition of the No Kings Rally. Carolina Kelly was there and has the details. Next, we have The Loyal Opposition Interview, an exclusive with Dr. Scott Langford, Sumner County Director of Schools. We talk about school supplies, new state laws (both real and proposed) and get updates on what our students are doing.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
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Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

This week Len and Carolina look at controvery surrounding Core Civic’s Trousdale Turner facility and interview Katie Smith with TN Vacation For All, a project designed to make websites more accessible to those who are blind or have low vision. We really did into what it means to be blind in TN.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
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Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

From Civic Awareness to Musical Inspiration: Local Artist Mollie Lynne Channels Experience Into Music

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assantei introduces the show’s mission of providing a platform for dissenting voices and diverse opinions in government policies. Len discusses an upcoming town hall meeting led by Lori Bergman in Hendersonville, followed by a critical analysis of Governor Bill Lee’s endorsement of the Trump budget, highlighting its adverse impacts on working families.

The main conversation is an interview with singer-songwriter and registered nurse Mollie Lynne, who discusses her background, her music's inspiration, and her efforts in advocacy through song. Mollie shares insights into nursing and healthcare, and performs a song titled Who Cooked The Last Supper, dedicated to the unsung women in history. Upcoming events and appearances by Mollie are also showcased. Mollie’s music can be found on all the streaming services.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit Mollie’s website: https://mollielynne.com/

Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

From Civic Awareness to Musical Inspiration: Local Artist Mollie Lynne Channels Experience Into Music

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assantei introduces the show’s mission of providing a platform for dissenting voices and diverse opinions in government policies. Len discusses an upcoming town hall meeting led by Lori Bergman in Hendersonville, followed by a critical analysis of Governor Bill Lee’s endorsement of the Trump budget, highlighting its adverse impacts on working families.

The main conversation is an interview with singer-songwriter and registered nurse Mollie Lynne, who discusses her background, her music's inspiration, and her efforts in advocacy through song. Mollie shares insights into nursing and healthcare, and performs a song titled Who Cooked The Last Supper, dedicated to the unsung women in history. Upcoming events and appearances by Mollie are also showcased. Mollie’s music can be found on all the streaming services.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit Mollie’s website: https://mollielynne.com/

Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

Exploring Faith, Music, and Politics in Sumner County With A Special Guest Plus the News Roundup

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin discuss a range of topics, starting with a sunny day in Portland, Tennessee, and Michelle’s summer school plans. They then share highlights from the Sumner County Democrats spring picnic, where they enjoyed good food, raised funds, and saw a youthful demographic shift in the party. The hosts discuss political news, including the conviction of Republican ex-Speaker Glen Cassada on corruption charges and the closure of Kid Rock’s restaurant due to ICE raids. The show also delves into the implications of a new Republican tax bill on middle-income Americans and Tennessee’s healthcare system.

Special guest Becky Yates, Michele's mom, shares her journey from Southern Baptist roots to becoming a progressive-minded Methodist minister. Becky discusses the challenges women face in ministry, the conservative takeover of the Southern Baptist Convention, and her subsequent disillusionment with organized religion. She highlights how her faith drives her political views, particularly the importance of love and compassion. The episode concludes with a discussion on finding community through music. Becky talks about her involvement with the Nashville in Harmony choir, a group supporting the LGBTQ community and their allies, and Vox Grata, a women's chorus focused on empowering women through music. The show wraps up with announcements and a teaser for the next episode featuring singer-songwriter Molly Lynne.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.

Vox Grata Women’s Choir https://voxgrata.com/

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Sumner County Library System Under Attack, ICE Raids, Local Politics, and Community Involvement: A Deep Dive with Michelle Harbin and Megan Lange

In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, Michele Harbin and Megan Lang, chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party, delve into issues affecting Sumner County and beyond. The discussion begins with a focus on local library policies, including controversial changes to collections and fundraising policies, and the impact these could have on the community. They also highlight the recent upsurge in ICE activities in Nashville and their wider implications. On a broader scale, the duo examines proposed federal cuts that could significantly affect Tennessee, discussing everything from disaster relief funds to Medicaid cuts. They emphasize the need for community support through mutual aid and engagement in local politics. Upcoming community events and actions sponsored by the Sumner Democratic Party are outlined, encouraging listeners to stay involved and make a difference. This episode serves as a comprehensive update on current affairs and a call to action for community engagement.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things

Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers

Sumner County Democratic Party: https://sumnerdems.org/

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

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Title: The Loyal Opposition: Education Funding, Wetlands Policy, and the Beauty of National Parks. In this episode of The Loyal Opposition Show, host Len Assante, alongside guest host Carolina Kelly, discusses several pressing issues and upcoming local events.

Summary: This week’s show begins with a critique of Tennessee's low ranking in K-12 student spending, teacher pay, and reliance on federal funding. Len argues that the state's legislative focus on private school vouchers and DEI dismantling is detrimental to the education system. The conversation progresses to indictments of a former

Tennessee representative linked to corruption and the legislature's recent anti-DEI policies.

Carolina then interviews Professor Allen Babiarz-Lira about Vol State's upcoming Fusion Culture Crawl event, featuring student art, music, and performances.

The show transitions to an engaging discussion with returning guest, journalist, and author Ren Brabenec, who delves into the significance of national parks and his newly co-authored book, Wilderness and Wonder: An Illustrated Guide to the National Parks.

Ren also discusses the environmental and administrative impacts of recent policy changes at both federal and state levels, particularly concerning wetlands and the national park system's staffing and funding challenges. The show concludes with announcements of upcoming events. Ren’s book is here.

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Title: Advocacy Through Music and Community: Talking music with the Portara Ensemble and law with Assistant DA Tara Wyle

Summary: In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes Tony Jackson and Jason Shelton of the Portara Ensemble, who talk about their upcoming collaboration with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jill Farnam from explains the organization’s mission and their special concert event. Additionally, Assistant District Attorney Tara Wyle joins to provide a deep dive into the legal system in Sumner County, discussing the balance between rehabilitation and incarceration. Tara also shares her passion for community service, including her involvement in the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce and her unexpected love for turtle rescue.

Potara Ensemble: https://www.portaraensemble.com/about-1

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee: https://wish.org/midtn

And as usual, we’re the number one source for state and local news.

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things

Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

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TITLE: Cybersecurity in the Age of DOGE

SUMMARY: In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes two guests: Ms. Bonnie Fussel and Jolie Grace Wareham. Len opens the show with a few announcements from the Sumner County Democratic Party, including upcoming events.. The first guest, Ms. Bonnie Fussel, shares insights about Haven, a support group for families dealing with dementia, highlighting their upcoming meeting and activities to help both caregivers and patients.

The second half of the show features Jolie Grace Wareham, CEO of Protasec, who delves into the world of cybersecurity. Jolie discusses the implications of phishing schemes, the importance of password managers, and real-world impacts of cyber threats on small businesses. She emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and the role of government policy in cybersecurity. Len and Jolie end with a discussion on reporting cyber incidents and thoughts on the TikTok controversy.

The Haven: facebook.com/HavenPortland or call 615-325-3291

Protasec: https://protasec.com/

Sumner County Democratic Party: sumnerdems.org

Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:

Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things

Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers.

SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found on: any podcast platform.

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Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry: AmandaJGentry.com

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