Second Cup of Joe...and John: Recent Episodes
Main Street Media of Tennessee
Co-hosts Joe Elvis and John Dwyer deliver a one-hour Monday-Friday morning show that focuses on Middle Tennessee-centric topics covering the spectrum of entertainment, entrepreneurship, business, sports and history. The show centers on life experiences and self-motivation, infusing quick whit in this segmented format.
Not many people can hold down both of their dream jobs. Andrew is the best-selling author of “Inside
Strong” chronicling Perry Wallace’s collision of race and sports when breaking the color barrier in SEC
basketball. Andrew returned to his alma mater at Vanderbilt University Special Projects coordinator.
The son of Pulitzer Prize winning author David Maraniss, Andrew has more than stepped out of his
father’s shadow with several more critically acclaimed books on the 1936 Olympics and the 1976 U.S.
Women’s Olympic basketball journey. Enjoy his stories of some of Nashville’s most intriguing sports
figures. AMONG THE TOPICS: HOW A COLLEGE PAPER CHANGED HIS LIFE FOREVER, THAT ONE YEAR
WITH THE DEVIL RAYS, THE INVENTION OF THE HIGH FIVE AND HOW HE MET HIS WIFE.
There must be two Dawn Davenport’s because she seems to be everywhere, especially college football
season. Her broadcasting journey led her to Nashville’s News-2, and she parlayed that into a sports talk
radio career while also balancing college football sideline duties that takes her all across the country.
Dawn talks about her challenges and successes as a woman in a male dominated profession with candor
and humor.
AMONG THE TOPICS: RUN DAWN RUN! (ALTHOUGH SHE NEVER TRAINED), THE TIME HER
BOSS SAID NO AND SHE DID IT ANYWAY, GIVING HER OPINION WHILE EARNING A PAYCHECK, HER “A
HA” ESPN MOMENT AND EARNING THE NICKNAME “ANGRY CHIHUAHUA.”
After a stellar 14-year NFL career in which he never missed a game, Carter seamlessly transitioned to broadcasting. The trio take a long walk down memory lane as KC describes his college recruiting experience as he was very close to signing with Notre Dame before opting for the University of Florida. Carter explains why he thought he was first out of his depth in the NFL and goes into detail with his Super Bowl experience vs. the Titans. Oh, did you know he played a musical solo in front of 68,000 fans? AMONG THE TOPICS: BLOWING HIS OWN HORN BUT IT WAS COACH FISHER’S IDEA, PROUD PAPA, IRISH EYES WERE ALMOST SMILING, OUT OF BREATH CHASING MCNAIR AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE
Nobody knows Middle Tennessee real estate regarding affordable housing better than McNeilage. He’s pioneered projects where few if any others would dare to go. He explains the current state of Nashville area housing in language we can all understand (even Joe and John). So, what are Nashville’s housing challenges and how do we solve them? Also, hear the story of how he’s connected to a high school, now housing former students. AMONG THE TOPICS: TURNED DOWN BY 15 BANKS, INTEREST RATE BLUES, ART OF THE DEAL AND SEMINOLE PRIDE.
One of the most respected business leaders in the Nashville area, Beth has built the Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee chapter into one of the most successful in the country. Find out why her path was unconventional and what it is like to be a high-profile non-profit leader in an incredibly competitive field. Her business savvy is a lesson for anyone trying to build a brand and there are more than a few laughs along the way. AMONG THE TOPICS: THE WISH NOBODY KNEW ABOUT, REEBOK REFLECTIONS, SAYING NO THE FIRST TIME AND LET’S GO BELOW THE DECK.
The drummer for The Black Crowes for the group’s first nine albums, Steve has lived the rock and roll dream. He then wrote about it in his 2019 biography Hard to Handle: The Life and Death of the Black Crowes - A Memoir. His resume also includes hosting Steve Gorman Sports! on Fox Sports Radio and Steve Gorman Rocks! which delves into classic rock and roll airing on Westwood One radio affiliates. Gorman’s musical background didn’t have him destined to play in front of the biggest concert crowds in the 90’s but his timely business conncections opened doors and continues to lead him to the biggest names in the entertainment business. AMONG THE TOPICS: BEST AIR DRUMMER, MEETING RINGO, PLAYING WITH JIMMY PAGE, HIS LIKE IN BOOK FORM AND WHAT’S HIS NEXT BIG PROJECT.
The drummer for The Black Crowes for the group’s first nine albums, Steve has lived the rock and roll dream. He then wrote about it in his 2019 biography Hard to Handle: The Life and Death of the Black Crowes - A Memoir. His resume also includes hosting Steve Gorman Sports! on Fox Sports Radio and Steve Gorman Rocks! which delves into classic rock and roll airing on Westwood One radio affiliates. Gorman’s musical background didn’t have him destined to play in front of the biggest concert crowds in the 90’s but his timely business conncections opened doors and continues to lead him to the biggest names in the entertainment business. AMONG THE TOPICS: BEST AIR DRUMMER, MEETING RINGO, PLAYING WITH JIMMY PAGE, HIS LIKE IN BOOK FORM AND WHAT’S HIS NEXT BIG PROJECT.
Neil Orne has been invited into your living rooms via News-2 since 1995. He’s a “5-tool” player anchoring every newscast through the years, along with hosting on the CMA Awards red carpet. Always quick with a quip and making guests feel comfortable, Orne has survived and thrived in the ever-changing news cycle delivery. Joe and John challenge you not to laugh or at least smile while on the treadmill, or on your second cup of coffee… er, joe. AMONG THE TOPICS: JOURNEY TO NASHVILLE, THE MORNING BLUES, NEED FOR (AIR) SPEED, AND HOW LONG CAN HE DO THIS?
Neil Orne has been invited into your living rooms via News-2 since 1995. He’s a “5-tool” player anchoring every newscast through the years, along with hosting on the CMA Awards red carpet. Always quick with a quip and making guests feel comfortable, Orne has survived and thrived in the ever-changing news cycle delivery. Joe and John challenge you not to laugh or at least smile while on the treadmill, or on your second cup of coffee… er, joe. AMONG THE TOPICS: JOURNEY TO NASHVILLE, THE MORNING BLUES, NEED FOR (AIR) SPEED, AND HOW LONG CAN HE DO THIS?
Norm Partin will forget more about Nashville racing history than any of us will ever know. Growing up in the shadow of the most iconic short track in the country, Norm’s passion for his city and the sport began during his childhood and hasn’t wavered. Dialed into the latest scoop on the fairgrounds track, along with the Nashville Superspeedway, Norm travels down memory lane recounting the colorful characters that made left hand turn after left hand turn. His knowledge and influence will keep Nashville a racing mecca for years to come. AMONG THE TOPICS: GRAND TORINO, BRISTOL-MANIA AND BENDING THE EAR OF THE MAYOR
Norm Partin will forget more about Nashville racing history than any of us will ever know. Growing up in the shadow of the most iconic short track in the country, Norm’s passion for his city and the sport began during his childhood and hasn’t wavered. Dialed into the latest scoop on the fairgrounds track, along with the Nashville Superspeedway, Norm travels down memory lane recounting the colorful characters that made left hand turn after left hand turn. His knowledge and influence will keep Nashville a racing mecca for years to come. AMONG THE TOPICS: GRAND TORINO, BRISTOL-MANIA AND BENDING THE EAR OF THE MAYOR
Can you talk to a seven-time Emmy Award-winning news anchor and not talk about the news? Joe and John did it as the trio dove into her amazing young career touring with a Japanese pop star, why she married a Vanderbilt sports star, and her affection for an aging rock and roll star. Can she sing? Oh, she can sing. If this episode doesn’t put a smile on your face, it just can’t happen. AMONG THE TOPICS: LEAVING HOME AT 17, TRACY AND JOHN’S SINGING DUET, SURVIVING A HORRIBLE CRASH AND WHY SHE CAME BACK TO NASHVILLE.
Can you talk to a seven-time Emmy Award-winning news anchor and not talk about the news? Joe and John did it as the trio dove into her amazing young career touring with a Japanese pop star, why she married a Vanderbilt sports star, and her affection for an aging rock and roll star. Can she sing? Oh, she can sing. If this episode doesn’t put a smile on your face, it just can’t happen. AMONG THE TOPICS: LEAVING HOME AT 17, TRACY AND JOHN’S SINGING DUET, SURVIVING A HORRIBLE CRASH AND WHY SHE CAME BACK TO NASHVILLE.
Meet Matthew Charles, incarcerated for more than 25 years only to be a guest of the President at a State of the Union address. Denied the chance to rent an apartment, Kim Kardashian entered his life and now he spends him time working on behalf of other drug offenders who have decades-long sentences. Matthew’s grace and dignity is incredibly inspiring as he explains how his upbringing led him down the path of crime, and why he owns his mistakes in rebuilding his life from scratch. AMONG THE TOPICS: DON’T SELL TO A SOLDIER, HIS MEETING IN THE OVAL OFFICE, KIM’S GENEROSITY AND HOW TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT SECOND TIME, ACTUALLY THIRD TIME AROUND.
Meet Matthew Charles, incarcerated for more than 25 years only to be a guest of the President at a State of the Union address. Denied the chance to rent an apartment, Kim Kardashian entered his life and now he spends him time working on behalf of other drug offenders who have decades-long sentences. Matthew’s grace and dignity is incredibly inspiring as he explains how his upbringing led him down the path of crime, and why he owns his mistakes in rebuilding his life from scratch. AMONG THE TOPICS: DON’T SELL TO A SOLDIER, HIS MEETING IN THE OVAL OFFICE, KIM’S GENEROSITY AND HOW TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT SECOND TIME, ACTUALLY THIRD TIME AROUND.
From 1974’s Top 10 hit “Keep on Smilin” with Wet Willie to his Grammy winning vocals with the Fisk Jubilee Singers decades later, Jimmy has had a front row seat to music’s evolution. His whimsical style and powerful pipes are instantly recognizable. His resume includes collaborations with the Allman Brothers, Jeff Beck, Jason Isbell, the Marshall Tucker Band and Hank Williams Jr. to name a few. Enjoy an oratorical journey that spans more than 50 years that is guaranteed to put a pep in your step and a smile in your heart. AMONG THE TOPICS: INSPIRATION BEHIND “KEEP ON SMILIN”, DAD SAYS, “GO FOR IT”, LIGHT DURING THE PANDEMIC AND A GLORIOUS NIGHT AT THE RYMAN.
Ben is the Managing Director and Market Leader at Aon Tennessee, but so much more. His FOB “Friends of Ben” network stretches across the country and has raised money and awareness for many causes including Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. His life skills advice, compiled in “Don’t Leave the Locker room of the Super Bowl,” is a must read for anyone trying to success in business and life. AMONG THE TOPICS: REUNITING WITH DEION SANDERS, FALLING ASLEEP IN A BOARD MEETING, AND HIS MIRACLE 9/11 STORY.
Ben is the Managing Director and Market Leader at Aon Tennessee, but so much more. His FOB “Friends of Ben” network stretches across the country and has raised money and awareness for many causes including Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. His life skills advice, compiled in “Don’t Leave the Locker room of the Super Bowl,” is a must read for anyone trying to success in business and life. AMONG THE TOPICS: REUNITING WITH DEION SANDERS, FALLING ASLEEP IN A BOARD MEETING, AND HIS MIRACLE 9/11 STORY.
Elected in 2002, some of his constituents who now vote, weren’t even born when Daron Hall assumed the position of Davidson County Sheriff. Now in his 6th term, the former Western Kentucky football player banters with Joe and John about his many college years and experiences. From the “it’s a small world” department, Joe and the sheriff go back decades! The guest explains why he almost didn’t go into law enforcement and what changed his mind. Would he ever pursue the mayor’s office? Listen to find out. The only Tennessee sheriff to serve as president of the National Sheriffs’ Association, Hall goes into detail why he didn’t accept an invitation to the White House. It’s not what you think. AMONG THE TOPICS: FORCED TO PUNT IN COLLEGE, WHY MUSTANGS RULE, WHY RADIOS ARE FASTER THAN CARS, AND THE FUTURE OF NASHVILLE LAW ENFORCEMENT.
Not many people can say they’ve been working in their chosen profession since the age of 10.
Warner continues to leave his mark in several genres including Alt Country, Americana. As a
member of Jason & the Scorchers, he found no issue combining country and punk music. This
raw interview takes a deep dive into life as a uber-talented musician, his road to sobriety and his
biggest musical influences. His zest for life is contagious. Just listen for yourself. AMONG
THE TOPICS: NO CHILD LABOR LAWS, LIVIN’ ON THE ROAD, AND MAKING
NASHVILLE A ROCK ‘N ROLL TOWN.
Earning his pilot’s license at age 17, Kevin, was destined to build an aviation company. Flight Solutions is the gold standard for charter flight and the Middle Tennessee native is among the most decorated pilots with his degrees and advanced training. He shares his passion and entrepreneurial spirit in this podcast with words of wisdom regarding building a company. He also gives you the inside story on how flying one of country music’s icons influenced his life. There are plenty of laughs as Kevin’s connections to Joe and John are revealed. AMONG THE TOPICS: BORN TO FLY, A REDHEAD FOR THE AGES, PROUD PAPA, AND WISHING ON A STAR.
Journalism was in Frank’s blood from about the time the doctor spanked him to give him breath. Sutherland, a long-time investigative reporter, rose to the highest post at the Tennessean newspaper. He succeeded the legendary John Seigenthaler and among his first big challenges, covering the 2000 Presidential election that wasn’t decided for weeks. Among his first big scoops, going undercover to expose abuses at a mental ward. Oh, we can’t forget he wrote a wine column and offers advice on the best value grape juice. AMONG THE TOPICS: THE HEADLINE THE DAY AFTER 2000 ELECTION DAY WAS…, WHY JOURNALISTS CAN’T DO WHAT HE DID BACK IN THE DAY, AND SOCIAL MEDIA CAN BE THE DEVIL.
For more than 25 years, Brad has chronicled the lives of Nashville notables and extraordinary feats of the rest of us. Beginning his journalist career as a crime reporter, Brad pivoted to his highly popular “Brad About You” society column inside the first page of the Tennessean. For years, “you made it” if your name appeared. Lured by News-2 to take his scoops to TV, Brad’s spectacular fall from grace (2 DUI’s), has led to 12 years sober and the admiration of among the great comebacks in Nashville’s social scene. The compliments and zingers are non-stop in this fast paced, emotional conversation focusing on the ever-changing Nashville landscape. AMONG THE TOPICS: BRAD’S ASCENT TO CELEBRITY STATUS COVERING CELEBRITIES, WHY TV ISN’T HIS FREQUENCY, WHO SAVED HIM FROM ROCK BOTTOM AND THE TIME JOHN AND BRAD WERE TAKEN TO THE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE.
Tia Sillers has a contagious enthusiasm for life and self-evaluation. Her pensive, thoughtful approach to songwriting led to “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack and the Kenny Wayne Shepherd single “Blue on Black.” Sillers has written more than 40 singles in multiple formats including numerous films, television shows and commercials. She has incredible perspective on this chapter in her life, losing her husband, Mark Shelby - an incredibly talent guitarist and songwriter - to cancer. Once you listen to just a few minutes of Tia on this podcast, you’ll be sucked into the conversation and crave to know her better. AMONG THE TOPICS: BYCYCLING TO THE BLUEBIRD, WHY SHE HAS NO PET PEEVES, THE BACK STORY ON “BLUE ON BLACK” LYRICS, AND LOOKING FOR ANOTHER LOVE.
If anyone else, besides Jeff Fisher, has had a bigger impact on the Nashville pro sports scene,
we’d like to meet him. Fisher takes a deep dive into how he led the move of the NFL Oilers to
Nashville. What was it like in that first team meeting? You might be surprised. Also, why he
said “no” to coaching when first offered a job and what changed his mind. Fisher also goes into
detail why, after a few months removed from coaching in the USFL, he sees his football future
more clearly. Oh, and he offers insight to Eddie George’s 1 st year at TSU and what he sees for
his former player’s future. AMONG THE TOPICS: FISHER’S FONDNESS FOR THE GREAT
MIDWEST, MONTANA’S ALLURE, HIS BIGGEST PET PEEVE AND EDDIE’S COACHING
CAREER PATH.
Few, if anyone knows more about the iconic Beatles than Richard Courtney. Richard has
written, not one, but two books on the Fab Four while also building a real estate reputation in
Middle Tennessee second to none. His love for the Beatles continues to come through on his
weekly radio show on Hippie Radio 94.5 FM. Richard discusses his chance meeting with Paul
McCartney which turned into more than a meet and greet. Why was the group’s only
appearance in Tennessee so controversial? He also reveals his big regret in life regarding the
Beatles. AMONG THE TOPICS: INSIDE PAUL’S VISIT TO NASHVILLE, WHY THE GROUP
SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED AND WHY VANDERBILT MISSED OUT.
Few can claim moving to Nashville and immediately being an influencer on a music genre.
Ketch heads up Old Crow Medicine Show, with its vibe described as alt-country, folk,
Americana, and American roots string band, just to name a few. Inducted into the Grand Ole
Opry in 2013, Ketch skips down memory lane with Joe and John, sprinkling in influences such
as Bob Dylan and John Mellencamp. He is also proud of his efforts to launch a school in East
Nashville that is close to his heart and soul. AMONG THE TOPICS: NOT “THAT” OLD
CROW, THERE’S PLAYING THE OPRY AND PLAYING OUTSIDE THE OPRY, NEW ALBUM
“PAINT THE TOWN”, AND LEAVING YOUR MARK ON NASHVILLE EDUCATION.
Like a well-worn slipper, Rhori fits into thousands of Middle Tennessee living rooms each night
with ease as the lead NewsChannel 5 anchor for evening TV broadcasts. Arriving in Nashville
in 2005, Rhori has earned the trust of viewers through his stable, calming delivery. His awards
include 7 Regional Emmys but his real value to the community is his dependability to be there
when the big story breaks and make sense of it. Rhori explains why he takes his job seriously,
but not himself. You will lose count of the times this trio cracks up. AMONG THE TOPICS:
WHAT A WILD PATH TO NASHVILLE, WHY FAMILY MATTERS, CHRISTMAS DAY
BOMBING, AND BIGGEST PET PEEVE.
Arguably the most recognizable voice in Middle Tennessee, Pete Weber is going into his 25 th season as
the main broadcaster of Nashville’s NHL team. Nobody has a mental Rolodex of stories and connections
covering all sports genres like Pete. An amazing storyteller with whimsical charm and humor, Pete
makes anyone feel as comfortable as well-worn slippers. He’s among the main reasons the Nashville
Predators were able to get traction with fans and sponsors in the early years and continues to be a huge
ambassador for the Predators and hockey. AMONG THE TOPICS, A LITTLE “HELPER” FROM HIS
FRIENDS, MAGICAL CALLS, AND THEE KEY TO THE PREDATORS SUCCESS IN 2022-23 AND BEYOND.
A graduate of the University of Georgia, Samantha climbed the TB broadcast ranks all the way to CNN.
She pivoted back to local TV hired by News-2 in Nashville in 2012.
Samantha has covered some of the biggest stories, including the historic 2008 Presidential election.
She now works in the Tennessee State Attorney’s Office making sure the messaging from the most
powerful lawyer in Tennessee is transparent and accurate.
Her responsibilities include a podcast from the AG’s office called, “Making the Case.”
What you might not know she is adorable, funny, quick witted and a fabulous mother of two girls with
uber-talented musician (Vandy Grad) Daniel.
AMONG THE TOPICS, GAWD DAWG GREAT TIME, NO LAW SCHOOL? NO PROBLEM. RAISING
DAUGHTERS IN THE 21 ST CENTURY.
Few, if anyone, are dialed into Country Music’s past, present and future than Katie Cook. Daughter of
Hall of Fame Songwriter Roger Cook, Katie refused to use her family connections, forging her own path
in the music industry and TV scene in Nashville. Her reputation as a true pro allows Katie to build
relationships with the biggest names in the business, revealing how it’s done. Her most prized
relationship is husband guitarist/songwriter Adam Shoenfeld. Now in her 3 rd decade hosting CMT Hot 20
Countdown, she feels she’s just getting started. If you know her, you like her. If you don’t, you will. Just
listen. She’s one of the most inherently likable people on the planet. AMONG THE TOPICS, LONDON
BRIDGE TO AMERICA, NO EXPERIENCE IN TV? NO PROBLEM, DOLLY CRUSH, AND WE ARE NOT ALONE.
Kyle is living his dream as a “box” owner, running Rising Sun Community Fitness in East Nashville. His
journey includes probably waiting on you at a famous Nashville restaurant. A one-time competitive
bodybuilder and weightlifter (with countless surgeries to prove it) Kyle’s extensive knowledge of fitness
training allows him to coach a spectrum of clients. If you are intimidated by trying CrossFit, Kyle’s
insight on how it can improve your quality of life may very well have you signing up for a “box.” He also
has a gift of music, which is nearly a requirement for living in Davidson County. AMONG THE TOPICS,
BEST ADVICE TO NEW BUSINESS OWNERS, WHAT DOES WINE HAVE TO DO WITH A BODYBUILDING
COMPETITION? AND WHY YOIUR GRANDMOTHER CAN DO THE SAME WORKOUT AS AN ELITE
ATHLETE.
One of the most decorated local TV anchors in the country, News-2 anchor Bob Mueller joined Joe and
John, which turned into an hour-long laugh fest and roast. Bob discusses his illustrious 42-year career at
News-2, explaining how the business morphed into a 24/7/265 news cycle, his toughest challenges, and
his most harrowing assignment. AMONG THE TOPICS, MARATHON MANIA, THE SCARIEST MOMENT
OF BOB’S CAREER (AND IT WASN’T COVERING THE WAR IN AFGANISTAN) AND TO SHAVE OR NOT TO
SHAVE THE MUSTACHE, THAT IS THE QUESTION.
Ever take a test for school and it changes your life? Matthew Charette took an unconventional way to
owning several East Nashville restaurants. He has fantastic advice for those wanting to start a business
as he’s a “go to” guy at the Entrepreneur Center. His most powerful life experience was as a Marine in
Desert Storm, which has a tremendous effect on him, good and bad, still today. You will come away
knowing how to make fewer mistakes running a business and have a renewed appreciation for the
Nashville community’s best trait. Among the topics, WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN STARTING A BUSINESS,
HOW A BAD REVIEW WAS THE BEST THING TO EVER HAPPEN, THE OKAY STUDENT WHO WAS THE
SMARTEST PERSON IN THE ROOM AND HOW IT LED TO THE MARINES AND WHERE TO FIND HELP FOR
MENTAL CHALLENGES.
Few have a more colorful back story of the 80’s Nashville music scene and record business than Mike
Grimes. From this Kentucky kid’s rock and roll guitar days to stumbling upon
ownership of an iconic East Nashville bar, Mike goes deep on what it’s like to run intimate music venues,
including one destroyed by the 2020 tornado. Joe and Mike weave a wicked web of stories that will
make you yearn for the good ole days of hanging out at your favorite record store. Among the topics, I
WAS FIRED AND I DESERVED IT, HOW ACE FREHLY IMPACTED MY LIFE, BALCONY POOL DIVING AND
WHAT $10,000 CAN BUY YOU.
Tommy Womack must be part feline because he’s lived at least 9 lives. An accomplished musician and
well-established songwriter, Tommy has written for Jimmy Buffet, Jason & the Scorchers, Dan Baird and
others. He’s released nearly a dozen albums as a solo act, and member of Government Cheese and
BisQuits. He’s also authored several books on the rock n’ roll life, along with hosting radio shows
through the years. Tommy is a philosopher who bounced back from a near death experience. If you are
into the Nashville music scene from the 1980’s on, Tommy is your Cup of Joe... And John. Among the
topics, ROUGHEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN KENTUCKY, THE GREATEST ROCK ‘N ROLL BAND YOU’VE NEVER
HEARD OF, TOMMY IS SURPRISED TO BE ALIVE, WHO ARE THE LAVENDER BOYS? AND THE 10
QUESTON QUIZ.