Decaf: Recent Episodes
Beacon Center of Tennessee
Decaf is a weekly podcast by the Beacon Center of Tennessee where Mark and Taylor offer thoughts on what's going on in Tennessee and around the country.
Mark and Taylor are BACK with a recap of the July Beacon Poll, thoughts on the Olympics and Southwest's change in seating policy, and—of course—your monthly dose of hot takes! Check it out now!
Mark and Taylor are back with another episode of Decaf this week! From the WNBA to Elon Musk and so much more, get your hot takes here on Decaf!
Mark and Taylor are BACK with hot takes on the WNBA, reality TV, national media, and more. Plus, we have a deep dive on the April Beacon Poll. Listen to this episode of Decaf now!
From baseball to Kate Middleton, March Madness to the Baltimore tragedy, we have it all on this episode of Decaf! Watch now!
Mark and Taylor are back with thoughts on Wendy's possible new price model, the trainwreck that is the NCAA, a new case against the Biden administration, and more. Check it out on this episode of Decaf!
From the start of Beacon's 20th anniversary celebrations to the uproar Taylor Swift has caused by attending NFL games, Mark and Taylor have all of the hottest takes on this week's episode of Decaf!
The January Beacon Poll results are here, and Mark and Taylor are ready to talk all about them! From the 2024 presidential election to New Years' resolutions, you might be surprised about the responses to these questions. This is an episode of Decaf you do not want to miss!
Mark and Taylor are here with a special episode of Decaf where they're talking about all things Pork Report, and college football, of course. If you haven't checked out the Pork Report yet, take a look here: https://www.beacontn.org/pork/2023
An exciting school choice announcement by Governor Lee, a new lawsuit filed by Beacon, and predictions for college football this weekend—all on this episode of Decaf with Taylor and Wen!
Justin joined Mark on the podcast this week to talk about the college football playoff controversy, school choice, Christmas songs, and so much more! You don't want to miss this episode of Decaf.
On this episode of Decaf, Mark and Taylor air their grievances about the "fall back" time change, make their predictions about the college football playoff, celebrate a new survey about school choice, and so much more! Listen now!
Due to travel schedules, we won't be releasing new episodes of Decaf this week or next week, but if you have missed any old episodes—including our poll results episode—now would be a great time to check it out! See you in a few weeks!
Mark and Taylor dive into the results of the October Beacon Poll on this episode of Decaf! Check out the full poll results at beaconpoll.com
Tennessee holds strong in state financial rankings; be careful what you believe in the media; a preview of next week's poll release; and thoughts on one of the most important questions this time of year. Listen to it all on Decaf!
Justin joins Taylor for this special episode of Decaf where they talk about some of the most head-scratching things we've witnessed in the last few weeks: a lawsuit between two members of the Tennessee legislature, an impending government shutdown, an entirely new base of sports fans, and a popular coffee drink with a deceiving name. Listen to it now!
Stephanie joins Mark on Decaf this week to talk about Beacon's new first amendment lawsuit, a looming government shutdown, and unlikely celebrity couples—including the one that has the whole nation talking. You won't want to miss this episode of Decaf!
It's not just the seasons that are changing, but also Vanderbilt's ranking on a popular list, the Senate dress code, and the SEC's position of power. Plus, Dave Portnoy calls out a journalist on some questionable practices, and Mark and Taylor don't hate to see it. All on this episode of Decaf!
Mark and Taylor's big takeaways on this episode of Decaf: - If you think Nashville property tax rates are bad, it could be worse (and it is in another big city in Tennessee). - If you are going to make a career of trying to take down school choice, maybe don't send your kids to a private school.- If you weren't a good quarterback while you were in the NFL, it wouldn't be a good idea to try to capitalize on Aaron Rodgers' injury.- If you're thinking about stealing from McDonalds, don't.
✅ Knoxville residents are making moves toward more affordable housing.
✅ Should politicians have age limits?
✅ SEC teams were not looking great in week 1 of college football...
✅ Taylor has some controversial pizza-topping opinions.
Get it all this week on Decaf!
What do property rights, presidential debates, and college football have in common? Absolutely nothing! Other than that we talk about all of these things on this episode of Decaf!
Another victory for Beacon's legal clients, a catchy song (that might not be the favorite of politicians) sweeps the nation, a big blindside threatens to take down a famous football family, and so much more on this episode of Decaf!
A new hat might be thrown in the ring in Tennessee's U.S. Senate race next year, and Mark and Taylor shudder at the thought of any more government lockdowns. Get you weekly hot takes about these topics and so much more on this episode of Decaf!
Self-driving cars in Nashville? Will someone else from the Democratic party run against President Biden in 2024? What's going on with the U.S. Women's World Cup Team? Do any brands or celebrities know how to handle a PR crisis?Get Mark and Taylor's hot takes on all these questions and more on this episode of Decaf!
In-n-Out is coming to Tennessee, and taxpayers are footing the bill. Are Facebook and Twitter switching roles? The Tennessee Titans are embracing a throwback this season. Skittles is making mustard-flavored candy, and Mark and Taylor are feeling conflicted about it. Listen to all the hot takes this week on Decaf!
Beacon released our Conservative Budget for Tennessee this week. An interesting case of a missing woman from Alabama has swept the nation. HBO's "Hard Knocks" is taking on the Jets this season, and Aaron Rodgers isn't happy about it. This weekend is Taylor's Super Bowl, with the premiere of Oppenheimer and Barbie. Listen to it all on Decaf this week!
Mark and Taylor are still coming down from poll-release-week energy. Things are suspicious around the White House. SEC Media Days are coming to Nashville next week. Taylor gives her strongest movie recommendation of all time. Listen to it all on Decaf this week!
Announcing the results of the first ever Beacon Poll! On this episode of Decaf, Mark and Taylor explain and discuss the results of the July Beacon Poll. From political to policy to cultural, what were some of the most surprising takeaways of this poll? Find out here here, and explore the data for yourself at beaconpoll.com!
Wen joins the podcast again this week to give some insight into SCOTUS's recent decision on college admissions. Plus, a teaser of the poll we're releasing next week, our opinions of the best sports dynasties, and how to survive the heat wave in Tennessee this weekend.
Listen to it all this week on Decaf!
Taylor is joined this week by Beacon's newest team member Wen Fa! The two of them offer takes on Nashville's new budget, the Oceangate disaster, and college football this season. Plus, get to know Wen with a round of rapid-fire questions, all on this episode of Decaf!
Mark and Taylor make an exciting announcement! Plus, thoughts on the NBA Championship and who should replace Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune.
Don't miss this episode of Decaf!
How much do you know about local zoning laws and how the affect the affordability in your area. Smoke from Canada is causing problems in the U.S. PGA and LIV are merging, and Mark and Taylor have differing opinions on it. Are you going to CMA Fest this weekend? We are... not.
Get all of your hot takes of the week on this episode of Decaf!
The Tennessee legislature went all in on protecting teacher salaries this year. Hunter Biden's drama continues to get worse. College baseball is in full swing. (Get it?) Taylor and Mark journey back to the '80s and '90s with their live music experiences this weekend. Get it all this week on Decaf!
A Hendersonville alderman draws needed attention to the city's budget. A new travel warning for Florida leaves folks scratching their heads. Nickelback might be the reason one NBA team is making a historic run. HBO makes—what Mark and Taylor think is—a big mistake.
Get your weekly hot takes on this episode of Decaf!
With Taylor on vacation, Ron joins Mark this week to talk about rising home prices in Middle Tennessee, the national debt ceiling, the creative way the Titans released their season's schedule, and Ron's growing family. Listen to it all on this episode of Decaf!
A recent court ruling defends Nashvillians' property rights. CNN is working on its ratings. Gov. Gavin Newsom spends a bunch of tax dollars just to... not spend tax dollars? Taylor Swift made Taylor's weekend and ruined Mark's. Listen to it all on this episode of Decaf!
Tennessee is trending up in state rankings. Another massive workers' union goes on strike. Alabama baseball seems to be in big trouble. Twitter users enter accountability mode. Listen to Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
Jordan joins Taylor and Mark for a recap of the 2023 legislative session—the good, bad, and in-between. And we couldn't do an episode of Decaf without sports talk! What did we think would happen in the NFL draft, and were our predictions correct? Check it out on this episode of Decaf!
A local business turns down a job for a political cause. NPR and Twitter are in a fight. Baseball season is fully underway with some very impressive teams. A new sports movie gets five stars from Taylor. All of this and more on Decaf!
Beacon's new report addresses some of the facts and myths about charter schools. What does the public think of President Trump's legal trouble? The NCAA women's final game stirred up controversy. Which of our favorite TV shows and movies wouldn't be acceptable if they debuted today? Listen to it all on this week's episode of Decaf!
Hidden gems in Tennessee. A possible legal situation for President Trump. March Madness bringing the madness. Going back to college.Listen to Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
What's really driving high housing costs in Tennessee? What did President Biden say this week that left us scratching our heads? How will Mark and Taylor's March Madness brackets fare? Which Apple TV+ show gives us hope for the world?
Listen to all of this week's hot takes on Decaf!
A new smoking ban is in effect in Nashville. Right-to-work is under attack in Michigan. Baseball season is upon us. Taylor and Justin have had some not-so-smart moments this week, and they talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
A message for the school choice critics. Big political shakeup this week in Chicago. Which Tennessee teams will make it into the NCAA Tournament? Certain shows that have been on the air for years have Mark and Taylor wondering why and how.
Listen to it all this week on Decaf!
Another Tennessee tax is on our radar as needing to go. Don Lemon offends the masses... again. The View is just as out-of-control as ever. A new movie in theaters this weekend has Mark and Taylor intrigued.
Takeaways from this episode of Decaf:
✅ Beacon is trying to lower the cost of housing in Tennessee one reform at a time.
✅ Identity politics has got to go.
✅ Mark and Taylor have wildly different opinions on the Super Bowl halftime show.
✅ A murder trial in South Carolina has gripped the nation.
Listen to it all now!
Have you ever heard of pending ordinance doctrine? What is everyone talking about following the State of the Union address? The Super Bowl is upon us—what do we expect to see? With Stevie Nicks and Billy Joel coming to Nashville on tour, it made Mark and Taylor think: what combination of artists would be their dream tour?
Get all these questions (and more) answered on this week's episode of Decaf!
✅ Setting the record straight on charter schools.
✅ More hypocrisy in Congress.
✅ March Madness is almost here.
✅ Mark and Taylor have some HOT takes on Nashville's Mayor Cooper not running for reelection.
Listen to it all on this episode of Decaf!
Beacon releases our Blueprint for a Freer Tennessee. Confidential documents everywhere...except where they're supposed to be. Mark's Super Bowl bet is still alive. There's a new GOP congressman at the butt of every joke. Get all of your weekly hot takes on Decaf!
A new report from the Beacon Center sheds some light on a little-known requirement for healthcare facilities that is preventing access to care for Tennesseans. Is President Trump's influence on the Republican Party waning? What happened to TCU in the CFP National Championship game? All of this, plus Mark and Taylor's hot takes on the most underrated and overrated television shows, on this episode of Decaf!
Happy New Year! Mark and Taylor are back to talk about innovation policy, hot takes on the chaos in Congress, predictions for the CFP national championship game, and one of the most-discussed crimes in America.
Read Beacon's latest policy recommendations here: https://www.beacontn.org/making-tennessee-the-innovation-capital-of-america
The Pork Report is finally here, and Mark and Taylor give their thoughts on the most egregious examples of government waste and abuse in Tennessee this year! Read the full report at beacontn.org/pork2022.
A sneak preview of the 2022 Pork Report. Thoughts on the Biden administration's recent foreign policy decisions. A lively debate about the college football playoffs. Mark and Taylor's favorite festive spots in Nashville to celebrate Christmas. All on this episode of Decaf!
Victory for school choice in Tennessee! Drama around the World Cup. Who is going to end up in the college football playoffs? Mark and Taylor give their opinions on the best Christmas movies. All on this episode of Decaf!
Happy Thanksgiving from Decaf! This week, Mark and Taylor talk about what they're thankful for, both in Tennessee politics and in life in general. Plus, they've got big opinions on Taylor Swift's Ticketmaster fiasco and who should end up in the college football playoffs.
Tennessee election results bring a big win for right-to-work, but what do the results mean for the rest of the country? Taylor is in the process of grieving Alabama's football season this year, and Mark isn't making it any easier. The Beacon team took off for Charleston this week, and both of these co-hosts have even more on the horizon.
Mark and Taylor give takeaways from Election Day, including a celebration of Amendment 1's victory in Tennessee, enshrining Right to Work in the state constitution.
Mark your calendar for Election Day and Beacon's live coverage! The White House gets fact-checked on Twitter. Alabama drops in the rankings, and Tennessee faces a challenge this weekend. And no, Twitter is not infringing on your free speech by asking you to pay for your blue check mark.
Join Mark and Taylor on YouTube Live on November 8 for election results, analysis and more! Starting at 3:30 PM at beacontn.org
New report from Beacon shows that some college majors aren't worth the investment. Climate change activists get a lot of attention, but are their plans actually working? Mark has a hot take about Tennessee football this week. Celebrities have a lot to say about politics, but are people interested in their opinions?
Potential taxpayer funding for the new Titans stadium has Mark and Taylor heated. Scandal strikes the LA City Council. Tennessee takes down Alabama, and Blink-182 is back.
As always, you don't want to get your weekly hot takes anywhere but on Decaf!
Nashville Metro Council continues to pander and uses our tax dollars to do it. Big names are leaving their political parties. MLB playoffs and college football might give Taylor a heart attack. Mark is a huge fan of a local business in Centerville.
Certificate of need laws are restricting access to healthcare in Tennessee. Gas prices continue to go up with no end in sight. It's baseball playoff season, the most wonderful time of the year (to Taylor and Jordan). The love lives of celebrities are making headlines.
Get all of your hot takes of the week on Decaf!
Zoning in Nashville has gotten out of hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are being impacted by Hurricane Ian. Georgia Tech is looking at a massive shakeup in its football program. Ron's recent finds on YouTube are completely out of control.
Listen to this week's episode of Decaf for hot takes from Taylor and special guest Ron Shultis!
Southwest pilots picket on... Broadway? Beacon got some good news this week! Mark's football picks are trending upward. Taylor has a change of heart about Adam Levine.
Hundreds of kids' lives have been changed through the state's ESA program. Mark and Taylor share their thoughts on a prominent business founder who donated his personal fortune to solving climate change. Mark's college football picks this week went a little better, while Taylor struggled. Who are the celebrities you find to be completely insufferable? Get all of your weekly hot takes on Decaf!
Nashville Metro Council passed an interesting law having to do with traffic cams, and honestly, we don't get it. Our hearts go out to everyone in Memphis. Mark is hoping for better college football predictions this week. Taylor is hyper fixated on pop culture and the drama surrounding a new movie.
Polling shows Tennesseenas are not too pleased that tax dollars are going to fund a new Titans stadium. Conservative budgeting can lead to more permanent tax cuts. College football week 1 is upon us, and it's time for some hot takes. Mark and Taylor have some odd quirks, and it's time we talk about them.
Beacon's new research report about education spending is getting a lot of attention. President Biden's plan for student debt forgiveness isn't being received well. Nolensville baseball players are competing in the Little League World Series. Moviepass is back, but is it worth the money? The hottest takes are delivered this week on Decaf.
Tennessee has a newly-appointed attorney general. San Fransisco changed course on police funding. The NBA has decided not to play games on Election Day. Mark and Taylor relive their favorite childhood birthday parties.
Nashville has earned the name "snitch city." The FBI took unprecedented action this week. The NFL's inconsistency on player accountability is atrocious. Taylor is determined to win a goldfish at the Williamson County Fair this weekend.
The RNC is not coming to Nashville. Nancy Pelosi makes a courageous trip to Taiwan. The MLB trading deadline brought some surprises. And this week in celebrity hypocrisy, we're looking at CO2 emissions from private planes.
Mark gives insights on a high-profile interview he conducted this week. The economy is in a bad place—depending on who you ask. The media offered some hot takes on who is going to win the SEC this year. America is in mourning over Choco Tacos.
Hear it all on this episode of Decaf!
Federal funds are (unsurprisingly) being misused. The Great Resignation is in full swing. An American is in big trouble in Russia. Not all "hippie" things are bad.
It's your weekly dose of hot takes on Decaf with Taylor and Mark!
The ESA program is finally ready to accept applicants. Following the science has never been more difficult. We have entered the superconference era of sports. Mark and Taylor are on the same page about one thing—Top Gun: Maverick is a must-see.
TNReady scores are in. The Biden Administration is having some communication problems. Competition is getting heated at Wimbledon, but nothing is hotter than the 4th of July in Tennessee.
Transpotainment vehicles under attack, EPA gets powers rolled back, Buc-ee's has landed in Crossville, and Mark hates Taylor's taste in music.
SCOTUS rules in favor of school choice. Governor Haslam is buying a Tennessee sports team. Stranger things has our attention. Shows that Justin and Stephanie wish they could rewatch for the first time again.
Inflation is causing nightmares. Mayor Cooper wants to ban... hot dog carts? Tennessee faces a tough upset in the College World Series. Mark goes to Vegas.
Listen to it all on this episode of Decaf!
Things are heating up with the Lookouts stadium. Gas is about to hit $5. Golfers are leaving the PGA for another option. WaWa is coming to Nashville!
Costs on the rise are having a serious impact on labor and personal finances. Workers across the country are looking to unionize, and more in Atlantic City are on strike. Nashville is losing residents seemingly as quickly as gaining them. Nostalgia over lost treasures is at an all-time high.
Listen to Mark and Taylor's hot takes on this episode of Decaf!
Tragedy in Texas, a cruel decision by MNPS, "sharkcano" in the Pacific, and Mark's three favorite things in Italy—hear it all on this episode of Decaf!
Taylor and Ron have all the hot takes this week on occupational licensing, the Johnny and Amber trial, the crypto crash, and the PGA Championship this weekend. Check it out!
The good, bad, and ugly of the legislative session. An egregious breach of trust on the federal level. The world champs not living up to their hopes. Justin's upcoming world travel plans. Listen to it all on this episode of Decaf!
FDA proposes another ban, Vanderbilt poll puts Nashville on blast, NFL draft energy is in the air, and Mark is leaving for almost a month! Get the weekly hot takes on Decaf!
Streaming services facing major issues, celebrities getting up in arms over little things, Wimbledon's new rules, and embarrassing outfits of the 1990s. All on this episode of the Decaf!
Mark and Taylor's takeaways from a trip to Memphis. The greatest Twitter troll of all time. Mark's (and definitely not Taylor's) favorite week in sports. Underrated movies from the 1990s. Listen to it all on this week's episode of Decaf!
Sending a message about online regulations ✅
Hot takes about SCOTUS confirmation hearings ✅
Taylor's (and definitely not Mark's) most exciting week in sports ✅
Bringing back the '90s ✅
Listen to all of it on this week's episode of Decaf!
Mark and Taylor's recent trip to Chattanooga, big news on stadium subsidies, March Madness final predictions, and thoughts on the slap heard around the world. Check out this week's hot takes on Decaf!
Ron and Mark took over the podcast this week to talk about licensing reform, March Madness (of course), their favorite new television shows, and New York lifting their vaccine mandates so Kyrie Irving can finally play!
March Madness, general life madness, a bad stadium deal in Chattanooga, and the type of rant you've come to expect on Decaf—this time about time changes. Listen here!
Gas prices, worker freedom, nostalgic games and TV, barking dogs, and sick babies—this episode of Decaf with Taylor and Stephanie has it all!
People are pouring out Russian vodka. School choice support is soaring. And awards season is upon us. For all the hot takes from Mark and Taylor, check out this episode of Decaf!
Conflict in Ukraine, a potential new stadium in Nashville, college basketball conference tournament season, and Mountain Dew's introduction into the party beverage world. Hear Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this week's episode of Decaf!
The ESA case heads to the TN Supreme Court (again). Canadian truckers are making waves. The excitement around the Super Bowl is still alive and well on our team. Mark and Taylor are (very) late to the game on some of the most popular TV shows of our time. And Mark gives a shocking shoutout. Hear it all on this episode of Decaf!
Happy Super Bowl week! Game predictions and favorite halftime shows—plus mask mandate repeals and Dollywood's good deeds—all on this episode of Decaf!
Controversial voices, home businesses in Nashville, NFL playoff outcomes, and reality dating shows. Get your dose of hot takes on Decaf!
Decaf's lineup for this week: National School Choice Week, a SCOTUS retirement, NFL chaos, and Ron's top 5 things to watch on YouTube
Home prices are on the rise. President Biden doesn't believe his approval polling numbers. Sports documentaries have become a huge hit. Some celebrity couples are very puzzling.
The latest news on covid, Titans success this season, Taylor's heartbreak on Monday night, and whether or not it's acceptable to use movie quotes in everyday conversation. Get all the hot takes on this week's episode of Decaf!
Mark and Taylor talk about a win for the Pork Report, the Chicago Teacher's Union's latest demands, the upcoming national championship game, and favorite snow day memories.
Taylor and Ron talk about the Pork Report, good news for Tennessee's business climate, New Zealand's odd Covid rules, and favorite childhood Christmas presents.
Justin and Taylor are on Decaf this week to talk about Covid Christmas round 2, Nashville's mismanagement of tax dollars, Elizabeth Warren vs. Elon Musk, and movie reboots.
Mark and Taylor are back this week with a preview of the Pork report, plus thoughts about cancelling math, the college football playoffs, and cheesy teen dramas.
Getting real about inflation, LeBron James getting called out, the best of Rivalry Week, and Mark's and Taylor's honest thoughts about thanksgiving food—all on this episode of Decaf!
Lots of new reports from Beacon, Justin's (and Mark's and Taylor's) thoughts on the vaccine mandate, inflation woes, and the best day of Taylor's life—all on this week's episode of Decaf!
What a week! Budgets, elections, a World Series win, and a holiday debate—hear it all on this episode of Decaf!
Thoughts on a recent cultural phenomenon, details about Beacon's annual heroes event, Mark's weekly rant about college football rankings (and other sports thoughts), and hot takes about some of the most popular movies.
Time to vote for Pork of the Year! Plus, rumors from the Democrat party, sports talk, and Mark and Taylor's favorite Halloween candy.
Southwest employee shortages, fraud in Chattanooga, and honest thoughts on the college football rankings and the countdown to the World Series
Controversy around Nashville's transportainment vehicles, Facebook in turmoil, reality TV rundown, and Taylor and Stephanie's ideal music festival lineups—all this week on Decaf!
Stephanie and Taylor have a girls' day on the podcast this week to talk about Ford coming to Tennessee, #FreeBritney, constant sports-watching at the Whitt house, and some of Stephanie's favorite moments with a two-year-old and an infant.
Justin took over for Mark this week on Decaf to talk with Taylor about right to work, criminal cases that the whole country is following, football games of the week, and which reality shows they want to be on.
Mark and Taylor are in person this week to talk about a new corporate welfare documentary, out-of-touch celebrities at the Met Gala, big upsets in college football week 2, and Norm Macdonald.
Jordan makes his Decaf debut with Mark this week! The guys talked about internet rumors, nominees in the 2024 presidential election, details of the Oracle deal, and the NFL.
A huge honor for Justin, slipping approval ratings for President Biden, college football week 1 thoughts, and big decisions about streaming services—all on this week's Decaf!
A new report by Beacon (link below), upcoming episode of Over-Caffeinated with Senator Marsha Blackburn, college football preseason thoughts, and Starbucks seasonal drinks... Mark and Taylor have a lot of opinions on this episode of Decaf!
https://www.beacontn.org/a-little-less-conversation-a-lot-more-spending
Opinions on the ESA case, the crisis in Afghanistan, more Mark and Taylor's top spots in Tennessee, and bands they would like to see at least once
Beacon's new report on state COVID outcomes (linked in the comments), corporate welfare documentary coming soon, Mark and Taylor's favorite Tennessee restaurants, and celebrities that are barely hanging on to being relevant
A rundown of this week's biggest winners and losers. Winners include Freddie O'Connell and The Mall at Green Hills. Losers include Taylor and Mark, Nina Turner, Andrew Cuomo, Chris Cuomo, and—as we are seeing in our Pork Report research—TN taxpayers.
A questionable financial deal from MNPS, vaccine proof required for Shake Shack, Olympics thoughts, and celebrity double-threats.
The importance of Right to Work in the states, President Biden rejects communism and socialism, two new teams might want to join the SEC, and Mark and Taylor's ideal bachelor and bachelorette parties (they're not what you think!)
Unrest in Cuba, new Beacon policy brief, trouble for Team USA, and Taylor's obsession with true crime—all on this episode of Decaf!
As always, hot takes by Mark and Taylor on this week's Decaf! Topics include the new Tennessee on Me program, tourism in Nashville booming, New York mayoral race results, and a wish list of TV reboots.
Mark and Taylor's weekly hot takes on #FreeBritney, the U.S. economy adding jobs this month, Olympic track & field athletes in controversy, and The O.C.
Thoughts on the latest decisions from SCOTUS, the bad side of breaking up big tech, flip-flopping on the filibuster, and a rave review of Mark's new favorite place in Nashville, H & S Bagels—all on this episode of Decaf!
Weekly hot takes delivered on the 100th episode of Decaf! This week: the consequences of defunding the police, what infrastructure really means, who Mark and Taylor are rooting for in sports, and an attempt at Whole30.
On Decaf this week, Mark and Taylor talk about Beacon's recent staff retreat (and Mark's very memorable mishap in Gatlinburg), Tennessee's decision not to take federal unemployment subsidies, Julio Jones's move to the Titans, and movies they can't wait to see this year.
Dr. Fauci's email revelations, a new episode of Over-Caffeinated, Memphis Grizzlies basketball, and thoughts on cryptocurrency—hear it all on this episode of Decaf!
Taylor and Mark give their weekly a-little-too-honest opinions on Clay Travis and Buck Sexton as the new Rush, potential Wuhan lab leak, healthcare reforms that actually help, and the most exciting things about the world opening back up.
Mask madness, corporate culture called out, Jazz time, and movies from their childhood that make no sense—hear Mark and Taylor talk about it all on episode 96 of Decaf!
On a special episode of Decaf this week, Justin and Stephanie talk about the changing mask rules, Governor Lee opting out of federal unemployment assistance, the panic to buy gasoline, and a celebration of Bennifer's reconciliation.
Ron joins Mark on Decaf this week to talk about Aaron Rodgers, what happened during the legislative session, how some on the left are changing tune on COVID restrictions, and the most surprising celebrity breakups.
New facts on social distancing, the Oscars' big flop, fun things that happen in sports, and a rant against crocs—Mark and Taylor give their hot takes of the week on Decaf!
Mayor Cooper's interesting turn on his property tax increase, President Biden limiting tax cuts, the Derek Chauvin trial, and the one album Mark and Taylor would take with them to a deserted island.
MLB versus Georgia, changes coming for Nashville Metro Council, Masters Week, and our favorite underestimated celebrities. We talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
Oracle's move to Nashville, Amazon workers in Alabama reject unionization, Master's Tournament didn't go the way Taylor planned, and movie quotes in pop culture—listen to Mark and Taylor talk about it all this week on Decaf!
MLB versus Georgia, changes coming for Nashville Metro Council, Masters Week, and our favorite underestimated celebrities. We talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
Happy Opening Day, baseball fans! Justin joins Taylor today to talk about the Atlanta Braves, the anniversary of the lockdowns, their takes on vaccine passports, and one less tax that Tennesseans will be paying this year.
Getting kids back in schools, education options for all Tennesseans, more March Madness, and a time for gratitude.
"Trust the science," the economy is healing, tax season upon us, and March Madness predictions—listen to Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
Another round of spending, Gov. Lee's thoughts on TN's finances, basketball season getting exciting, and the latest round of celebrity cancellations
A big event next week, innovation sandboxes, mask mandates lifted, and favorite childhood toys. Listen to Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this episode of Decaf! Register for the Stewardship Series here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-stewardship-series-tickets-143791234453
Potato head, Syria, stadium subsidies, and Whataburger. There's a lot going on in the world this week, and we talk about it all right here on Decaf!
Saying farewell to a conservative talk show host, a questionable decision by a U.S. Senator, Dolly charms us all again, and the best snow memories—Mark and Taylor talk about it all on Decaf!
The latest news on the ESA case, thoughts on government spending, Super Bowl bets, and country music controversy—listen to all of Mark and Taylor's hot takes on this episode of Decaf!
National School Choice Week, Reddit coming for Wall Street, the Jazz at #1, and Taylor's most embarrassing moment—all on this episode of Decaf!
National School Choice Week, Reddit taking over Wall Street, the Jazz at #1, and Taylor's most embarrassing moment—all on this episode of Decaf!
This week on Decaf, Mark and Taylor give opinions on the inauguration, getting kids back to in-person school in Tennessee, sports documentaries, and who would receive their presidential pardons. Check it out!
Social media censoring, consequences of state-run media, corporate welfare in Tennessee, and the National Medal of the Arts—more hot takes from Mark and Taylor on this episode of Decaf!
Current events at the US Capitol, election results in Georgia, our policy to-do list in 2021, and college football playoff outcomes—listen to Mark and Taylor give opinions on it all this week on Decaf!
Mark's big news, thoughts on the stimulus bill, football playoffs are here, and we are excited for Christmas!
Thoughts on the FDA (and government red tape in general), the Hall Tax phase-out (finally!), predictions for the end of the college football season this year, and Taylor's new obsession with an old product
Mark and Taylor talk about this year's pork report, their favorite entries, and the feedback we have gotten so far. Read it here at beacontn.org/pork2020
Pork Report teaser, why personal responsibility is important, and Taylor's fascination with the "monolith"—all on this episode of Decaf!
Will kids be able to be vaccinated against COVID-19? Is it fair that elected officials are telling us how many people we can have in our homes for Thanksgiving? And how do you get rid of bed bugs? Taylor and Stephanie answer these questions and more this week on Decaf!
Will kids be able to be vaccinated against COVID-19? Is it fair that elected officials are telling us how many people we can have in our homes for Thanksgiving? And how do you get rid of bed bugs? Taylor and Stephanie answer these questions and more this week on Decaf!
A new Beacon research report, Joy Reid's big blunder, no concerts without a vaccine, and remembering celebrities—check it out on this episode of Decaf!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! This week on Decaf, Taylor and Mark talk about Mark's new gadget, the escalation of COVID mandates, a communication crisis in the Democrat Party, and favorite Thanksgiving foods.
Taylor and Mark talk about the current status of the election returns—both presidential and congressional—plus their opinions on COVID voting protocols and whether or not pollsters will have a job after this election cycle.
This week on Decaf: Social media CEOs under scrutiny, LA's banner year for sports, Beacon's newest legal action, and best Halloween memories.
Best reality shows, things going down with big tech, sports gambling coming to Tennessee, and favorite candy flavors—hear Mark and Taylor talk about all of it on this episode of Decaf!
Taylor and Justin are coming to you from Arlington, TX for game 4 of the National League Championship Series, where they are talking about the Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation hearing this week, the double standard around public events in Nashville, and their favorite sports memories.
Taylor and Mark talk about arbitrary COVID metrics, poor NBA finals ratings, terrible slang terms, and Beacon's new Knoxville young professionals chapter on this episode of Decaf!
The progress of our case to defend the ESA program, this week's postponed Titans game, the status of Nashville opening back up, and some of Mark and Taylor's fall favorites—all on Decaf this week!
Whew! What a week. Mark and Taylor talk about it all—from the death of Justice Ginsburg to the new social media documentary that is making waves—this week on Decaf.
Stephanie joins Taylor this week to talk about COVID data in Nashville, the new Middle East peace agreement, Big 10 football, and laws that they think are insane.
Interesting new ideas about mask enforcement from Nashville officials, questionable directives from school leaders, and a discussion about how early is too early to decorate for Christmas—Mark and Taylor address these topics on Decaf!
The status of Metro Nashville public schools, what Right to Work is and what it's not, #FreeBritney, and nostalgic movies—Mark and Taylor talk about it all on this episode of Decaf!
Ron joins Taylor on this week's podcast to talk about Gov. Lee on Over-Caffeinated, the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage, true crime stories, and Ron's latest YouTube obsession.
Stephanie joins Mark on Decaf this week to talk about inconsistent Covid regulations that governments are placing on bars and restaurants, whether or not boycotting works (and whether or not people actually do it), the NBA being stuck in a bubble at Disney World, and TV shows and movies from their childhood that they've recently watched again.
On a very special Decaf this week, our summer intern Karrington joins Mark to talk about our new episode of Over-Caffeinated (premiering Friday), the current state of the U.S. GDP, NBA's hypocrisy on China, and Taylor Swift's new album.
Justin joins Taylor on the podcast this week to talk about free speech on social media, innovation in Tennessee, COVID regulations that don't make a lot of sense, and how sports are going to work this year.
Taylor and Mark talk about NBA players locked in Disney World, Twitter users locked out of their accounts, the perks of microschooling, and their weirdest online food purchases on this episode of Decaf!
Two wins for Beacon this week, free speech for everyone, and celebrities who should be President—all of this and more on this episode of Decaf with Mark and Taylor. Plus, we need your votes! Click here to vote for Beacon to win the Bob Williams Award for Most Influential Research —> https://spn.org/2020-finalist-voting-most-influential-research/
Listen to Mark and Taylor talk about the City Freedom Index, the latest SCOTUS case about school choice, COVID parties, and 4th of July memories on this episode of Decaf!
Taylor and Stehpanie took over the podcast today to talk about the end of the legislative session, mandatory mask laws popping up all over the country, government inefficiency, and how quarantine has been for Stephanie as a new mom!
A property tax increase in Nashville, a police-free zone in Seattle, a new documentary on Jeffrey Epstein, and Nashville's 38 best restaurants. Mark and Taylor have a lot of opinions, and they talk about all of them this week on Decaf!
Mark and Taylor have had it with cancel culture... And misinformation around COVID-19... And smoking bans... And they talk about all of those things and more on this episode of Decaf.
What do Karens, popcorn, telehealth, sports, and coronavirus have in common? Absolutely nothing aside from the fact that Taylor and Mark talked about all of them this week on Decaf!
Coronavirus updates from the states, trends from these interesting times, the NFL draft, and what's keeping Mark and Taylor entertained—all on this episode of Decaf!
We're still here! And we have a big week this week: Over-Caffeinated with Ajit Pai, talk of reopening the economy, Easter traditions, and another week of "what we're watching." Check it out on this episode of Decaf!
Bernie drops out, Matthew McConaughey plays bingo, taxpayers realize the need for fiscal responsibility, and Mark and Taylor talk about what they're watching in quarantine—all on this episode of Decaf!
Still in quarantine, Taylor and Mark talk about how sporting events are overcoming social distancing obstacles, online shopping on the rise, Beacon's timely policy solutions, and what we're watching while we're stuck at home.
Mark and Taylor give their thoughts on leadership from Governor Lee and city mayors during this crisis, how the media is handling things, the latest news out of Venezuela, and their new favorite Netflix show—Tiger King.
Taylor and Mark come to you from quarantine to talk about all things COVID-19: Beacon's response, supporting small businesses, free-market solutions, and what it's REALLY like to work from home.
Coronavirus, basketball, tornado relief, and presidential candidates who've dropped out of the race—all on this episode of Decaf!
Middle Tennessee is rebuilding from the tornadoes. Here's what you can do to help.
Donate to Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee (https://www.secondharvestmidtn.org/) and Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (https://www.cfmt.org/).
Justin joined Taylor on the podcast this week to talk about their favorite places to travel, the coronavirus scare, the status of home businesses in Nashville, and Rush Limbaugh's effect on talk radio.
A story about a good citizen who saved an elderly woman from a scam, news about the West Tennessee Megasite, thoughts on Rob Blagojevich's release from prison, and remorse over celebrity crushes that got away—all on this episode of Decaf.
Taylor and Justin kick off the new year (or new decade?) talking about new laws in Tennessee as of 1/1/2020, Bill de Blasio's rebuking of Domino's Pizza prices on New Year's Eve, and their goals for this year.
Jussie Smollett, education savings accounts, and the media's take on President Trump's Medicare and Medicaid plans—Taylor and Mark talk about all of these things (plus Taylor's embarrassing Valentine's Day story) on this episode of Decaf,
Taylor and Mark give their thoughts on the Super Bowl—the game, the halftime show, and the commercials—Nashville's deal with Major League Soccer, and the 2020 State of the Union Address.
On this episode, Mark and Taylor talk about the tragic death of Kobe Bryant and Gigi, National School Choice week, Don Lemon's most recent controversial comments, and what it's like to play on the same trivia team.
Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton joins Mark and Justin on this episode of Over-Caffeinated, where they talk about the Super Bowl, celebrity doppelgangers, and bold predictions about this year's legislative session.
This week, Taylor and Mark talk about their favorite Super Bowl commercials, the new episode of Over-Caffeinated with Speaker Cameron Sexton, the recent pro-gun rally in Virginia, and women in country music.
Taylor and Mark talk about the LSU football team being threatened with arrest for smoking their post-game cigars, the idea of "Medicare for All," new potential tax incentives for Memphis, and Adam Sandler's promise to make the worst movies ever.
Taylor and Mark talk about football headed into playoff season, the Tennessean's top 10 political stories of 2019, Ricky Gervais' opening monologue at this year's Golden Globes, and the latest feud between CNN and the Babylon Bee.
In the last episode of Decaf of 2019, Taylor and Mark talk about the UK election results, Beacon's latest lawsuit, the best bands of the 1980s (according to them), and the best Christmas movies.
This week on Decaf, Taylor and Mark talk about movies coming out around Christmas, Beacon's Pork Report, transparency in hospital pricing, and their favorite Christmas gifts of all time.
On episode 26 of Decaf, Taylor and Mark talk about the status of Democratic candidates for president, shopping statistics from Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year, University of Memphis football, and how taking political stances is helping or hurting some of America's most popular brands.
Happy Thanksgiving! On this week's episode of Decaf, Taylor and Justin talked about what they really think of social media "influencers," the implications of the recent elections in Hong Kong, the possibility of Medicaid block grants in Tennessee, and our favorite Thanksgiving memories and traditions.
This week, Taylor and Mark talk about how annoyed they are with the phrase "ok, boomer," a new revelation about Nashville's financial situation, Rep. Eric Swalwell's unfortunate slip on national television, and the conspiracy theories about Jeffrey Epstein's death gone viral.
Taylor and Mark talk about Disney+, the progression of the president's possible impeachment, Beacon's upcoming Pork Report, and college football.
Taylor and Julie Warren, Beacon Senior Fellow for Criminal Justice, sit down this week to talk about the college admissions scandal, the release of prisoners in Oklahoma, the Kardashians, and Julie's vegetarianism.
Taylor and Mark talk about the World Series, Beacon's latest research report, Tulsi Gabbard and Hillary Clinton, and halloween.
Taylor and Justin talk about outrage culture in sports, the presidential debate that will be held at Belmont in 2020, LeBron James's comments on China, and Justin's recent dilemma about listening to podcasts.
Taylor and Mark are back in Nashville and talking about George W. Bush and Ellen's friendship, Fortnite, the NBA and China, and fall trends.
Taylor and Mark were in Memphis this week to conduct exit polling for the Memphis mayoral race. While they were in town, they went to Low Fi Coffee to record episode 18 of Decaf. On this episode, they talked about the creative business philosophy of Low Fi Coffee, Bernie Sanders' recent health scare, Nashville's potential new Major League Baseball team, and TV shows that they like to binge-watch.
Mark and Taylor discuss impeachment, Bluff City Law's premiere, Greta Thunberg, and movie sequels.
While in Knoxville, Taylor and Mark talk about the Nashville mayoral election, vaping, unions, and Taylor’s random injuries.
Stephanie and Mark talk about climate change, cities in debt, Professor Matthew McConaughey, and overrated musical artists.
Taylor and Mark talk about college football and NFL, recent gun bans, Harry Potter books being taken out of a Nashville school, and fads of our childhood.
Taylor and Justin sat down this week to talk college football, free speech, Beacon's focus on local issues in Tennessee, and our favorite music. Spoiler alert: Nickelback is not included.
Taylor and Mark are at Nutura Nashville, a coffee shop in the Dream Hotel downtown, where they're talking about Nashville's overwhelming debt situation, Megan Rapinoe’s conservative parents, and Sourhern idioms.
Taylor and Mark traveled to Gatlinburg this week, where they recorded episode 11 of Decaf. On this installment, they talked about the emphasis that Beacon will be putting on local issues this year, the latest news (and conspiracy theories) surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, and Taylor's perspective on dating in 2019.
Taylor and Mark talk about the aftermath of the tragic shootings last weekend, the feud between Snopes vs. Babylon Bee, and what it's like to meet the parents of the person you're dating.
Justin joins Taylor this week to talk about local elections, the new speaker of the house, social media, and a big win for freedom from Beacon's litigation center.
Nationally renowned conservative talk radio host Phil Valentine joined Mark and me on Over-Caffeinated this week, live from Tailgate Brewery. We talked about student loans, if college athletes should get paid, Amazon Prime Day, and more. And finally, someone agreed with Mark on the merits of Nickelback! Check out this episode of Over-Caffeinated and be sure to join us next time when we'll be live from Knoxville with "Instapundit" Glenn Reynolds.
Taylor and Mark talk about Ross Perot, the Democratic presidential primary, television streaming services, and some exciting news from Beacon.
Mark and Taylor talk about the Fourth of July, Beacon’s recently-announced City Freedom Index, net neutrality, and USA women’s soccer.
Taylor and Julie talk about student loan forgiveness, licensing lemonade stands, criminal justice reform, and Mayor Briley's ban on scooters.
Stephanie joined Mark on the podcast this week to talk about the Democratic presidential debates, Taylor Swift's new music video, the failed union vote at Volkswagen in Chattanooga, and the Tennessee Holler.
Mark and Taylor record from Makeready in downtown Nashville, where they talk about scooters, congressional pay raises, and Bonnaroo.
Taylor and Justin talk about CMA fest, property rights, and where your tax money is going in Tennessee.
This week, Mark and Taylor talk about the new movie Long Shot, criminal justice, and the congressional proposal to raise the U.S. smoking age to 21.