Growing Pains: Exploring The Challenges in a Thriving Sumner County

About Growing Pains: Exploring The Challenges in a Thriving Sumner County

Growing Pains is a podcast about the choices and challenges shaping Sumner County. Host Deanne DeWitt talks with local leaders, neighbors, and decision-makers about how a thriving community handles growth, opportunity, and the tough calls that come with both. Brought to you by the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus. Learn more at https://republicanfreedomcaucus.com/

Publisher

Moving Sumner Forward

Category

government

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Oct 2025

Latest episode

6 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

35 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Aug 2026

   The Secret to Building a Business That Gives Back | Eric Blankenship

   In this episode of Growing Pains, Deanne DeWitt sits down with entrepreneur, musician, and All Access Coach Leasing co-owner Eric Blankenship to talk about what it really takes to build a successful business while investing in the community around you. From starting a company with just $5,000 and a credit card to growing it into one of Middle Tennessee's leading transportation companies, Eric shares the lessons he's learned about perseverance, leadership, and taking calculated risks. The conversation explores responsible growth, supporting local businesses, workforce development, and why thriving communities depend on entrepreneurs who are willing to give back. Eric also reflects on his lifelong passion for music, the unexpected success of his weekly performances, and how building relationships has opened doors he never imagined. Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who cares about the future of your community, this episode is filled with practical wisdom on leadership, generosity, and creating opportunities that last. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

2. 

   30 Jul 2026

   Matt Shoaf Makes Everyone Mad... Here's Why

   Why would someone proudly say they "make everyone mad"? In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Sumner County Commissioner and Budget Committee Chairman Matt Shoaf for a candid conversation about leadership, local government, and why meaningful change often requires difficult conversations. What begins as a lighthearted joke quickly turns into a thoughtful discussion about public service, political disagreement, budgeting, taxes, education, and the future of Tennessee communities. Matt shares why he first entered public office, what surprised him most about serving on the County Commission, and why good leaders must be willing to talk with people they disagree with. Whether you're interested in leadership, local politics, technology, or building stronger communities, this episode offers an honest and thought-provoking look at the challenges facing Sumner County and the conversations that shape its future. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

3. 

   23 Jul 2026

   Can Community Service Change Tennessee Politics? | with Brian Stewart

   In this episode of Growing Pains, Deanne DeWitt sits down with Brian Stewart, owner of One Stop Realty & Auction, former Sumner County Commissioner, community advocate, and candidate for the Tennessee House of Representatives. Brian shares the experiences that shaped his commitment to public service, from building a successful local business to investing in nonprofits, supporting first responders, and serving his community through elected office. The conversation explores some of the biggest issues facing Sumner County and Tennessee, including housing affordability, education, infrastructure, public safety, and responsible growth. Brian discusses why communication, transparency, and keeping promises are essential qualities for public leadership, while reflecting on the lessons he learned as a county commissioner and how they have prepared him for the next step in public service. Whether you're interested in local government, community leadership, or the future of Tennessee, this episode offers an inside look at the values, priorities, and vision driving one candidate's campaign and his passion for serving others. ========== Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community. From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Contact Growing Pains: Exploring The Challenges in a Thriving Sumner County

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.