Shows
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevCookeville Rescue Mission with Will RobertsJoin Kosta and his guest: Will Roberts, Executive Director of Cookeville Rescue Mission. In this episode: Most people know the Cookeville Rescue Mission in theory. They drive by the building or they see a billboard - they know it exists, but they might not know more than that. What do you wish our community knew about the work you do and the individuals who walk through your doors every day? You have a motto at CRM I love: we’ll help you do anything, but we won’t help you do nothing. What does this motto mean to y...
2025-10-271h 05Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevThese Truths with Dr. Troy SmithJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Troy Smith, Author, Historian and Professor of History at Tennessee Tech University.In this episode: In 2021 you started writing an opinion column in the Sparta Expositor called “A Liberal Dose”. This column began at the request of the Expositor’s Editor looking to add more progressive commentary after the events of January 6th and the insurrection on our nation’s capital. After writing your column for more than 4 years you’ve been asked to take a step back from the publication citing security concerns and threatening messages directed at you specifically. My first q...
2025-10-2058 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevTo Protect and to Serve with Sgt. Charlotte AustinJoin Kosta and his guest Cookeville Police Department’s Sergeant Charlotte Austin.In this episode: You lead Cookeville Police Department’s Community Services Program with a dedicated mission to unify law enforcement and the public. Most people would rather get a root canal than hang out with on-duty police officers for fun, so how do you effectively bring everyone together to make meaningful progress towards this goal? In 2015 you joined CPD as a part-time dispatcher. Two years later, you became a certified officer and quickly rose through the ranks, first as a Field Training Officer, then as a De...
2025-10-1353 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevMaking the Good Life Better with Chad McDonaldThis is Kosta and today I’m here with my guest: Chad McDonald, Assistant Director of Cookeville Department of Leisure Services and Public Facilities. Soon to be Department Director beginning October 6, 2025. In this episode: Leisure Services is the heart of Cookeville. Your department oversees ten city parks, Cookeville Performing Acts Center, two museums, our farmers market, and countless other recreation and events centers. In your opinion, what role does Leisure Services play in shaping Cookeville’s identity and quality of life? You’ve served the City of Cookeville and Leisure Services in various roles for over thirty years...
2025-10-0639 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevBreaking News with Lindsay PrideJoin Kosta and his guest: Lindsay Pride, journalist and Editor of the Herald-Citizen.In this episode: You started at the Herald Citizen in 2002 as a reporter. I want to step back in time for a moment, because the Herald-Citizen, and your career as a journalist, have drastically changed since 2002. Will you take us through a day as a reporter for the Herald-Citizen in 2002 verses a day as editor in 2025? To put it plainly, local newspapers are suffering. Wikipedia says the United States saw the loss of an average of two newspapers per week between late 2019 and May 2022...
2025-09-2946 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Urgency of Now with Johnnie WheelerJoin Kosta and his guest: Johnnie Wheeler, First Vice Chair of Cookeville NAACP.In this episode: Over the past 50 years you’ve seen our county from every angle. From your professional work at UCHRA, to your political service in the County Commission, to the countless boards, committees and commissions you’ve seen it all. When you look at your work so far, what’s the through-line that ties it all together? Cookeville and Putnam County are changing everyday. Right now it feels like we’re a caterpillar in a cocoon waiting to transform into a beautiful butterfly. What do...
2025-09-2230 minBetter Together with Kosta Yepifantsev20/20 Vision with Dr. Alissa HudsonJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Alissa Hudson, Ophthalmologist and Owner of Middle Tennessee Eye. In this episode: I think we can all agree, there’s only one place we can start this episode - and it’s inside an eyeball. We all have eyes, but most of us have no idea how they work or why they don’t work correctly. So, I hope it’s not too much to ask: how do our eyes work? You’re an Ophthalmologist specialising in refractive surgery like LASIK and multifocal cataract surgery. I’ve had LASIK and it’s truly in...
2025-09-1532 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevWinners and Losers with AJ DonadioJoin Kosta and his guest: AJ Donadio, Community Leader, Veteran, Activist and Professor in the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing at TTU. In this episode: You serve the community through a variety of non-profits from Cookeville Independence Again to Highland AMVETS Post 44. Will you tell us about all the organizations you’re working with and how they contribute to our community? In 2021 you helped charter the TN Tech chapter of Turning Point USA. To make a long story short: there were some people who didn’t like it. In today’s political climate it’s impossible to make everyone...
2025-09-081h 29Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevBelonging with Samantha RaperHey, ya’ll! This is Kosta and today I’m here with my guest: Samantha Raper, President and Founder of Cookeville Inclusive. In this episode: Cookeville Inclusive started with a Facebook post and has evolved into a movement. Will you tell us about who the community is for and how it has reenergized the inclusive spirit of the Upper Cumberland? Inclusivity can mean different things to different people. How do you translate your vision of inclusivity into actionable opportunities that make a difference in Cookeville? Everyday we decide what we want Cookeville to be. As you know, movi...
2025-09-0145 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevFrom Experience with Ali BagciJoin Kosta and his guest: Ali Bagci, Cookeville City Council Member, veteran and community organizer. In this episode: You can’t teach experience. That was one of my favorite quotes from your website, because it’s true. No matter how we try, we can’t teach experience. Professionally, you’ve worked in manufacturing, project management, healthcare, and as an Officer in the United States Navy. Cumulatively, how do you think that experience has shaped your approach to leadership for Cookeville City Council and beyond? For most of us, we won’t care about how the government works until we n...
2025-08-2547 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Plan with James MillsJoin Kosta and his guest: James Mills, City Manager for the City of Cookeville. In this episode: The City of Cookeville recently launched a new segment on social media called Cookeville Q&A: where residents can write in with their questions to city representatives. Most of the questions understandably are about roads and traffic. Do you think the general public doesn’t fully understand the scope of projects like these or are we indeed entitled to have a total meltdown on South Jefferson Avenue? From what I can tell, there’s no sign of Cookeville slowing down. Whet...
2025-08-181h 12Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevPaving the Way with Rick McDonaldJoin Kosta and his guest: Rick McDonald, Retired Tennessee Department of Transportation Operations Supervisor. In this episode: If you drive in Tennessee, you’re enjoying the hard work of TDOT. Like many state and government entities, we might be familiar with the department, but not know exactly what it is. What is TDOT? What does TDOT do? You’ve worked with TDOT for over 36 years, since 1988. Needless to say, we live in a completely different world from 1988. What’s changed the most for TDOT? Overton County alone has over 160 miles of state roads. Can you put into pe...
2025-08-1131 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevRestoring Childhood with Wren GoedkenJoin Kosta and his guest: Wren Goedken, STEM Teacher at Algood Middle School and organizer for the Restoring Childhood Initiative. Restoring Childhood is a grassroots movement of parents, educators, and community leaders who want to help kids reclaim play, creativity, connection, and freedom by intentionally reducing screen time and sparking meaningful change in how we think about childhood.Restoring Childhood is a non-partisan, community-driven initiative open to everyone who cares about kids and wants to see them thrive.In this episode: What makes Restoring Childhood different f...
2025-08-0451 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevMom Real Local with GraceAnn WittJoin Kosta and his guest: GraceAnn Witt, founder of Mom Real Local, Your guide to young mom life in the Upper Cumberland area of TN! Connecting Moms. Sharing moments. Discovering places.In this episode: What’s the hardest part of being a mom that no one talks about? How does Mom Real Local help to ease those hardships? What’s something you wish you could tell every new mom, or even, every new mom moving to the Upper Cumberland? In your opinion, what are the three most underrated places or experiences in Cookeville that every mom should know...
2025-07-2834 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevReason Together with Tom SavageJoin Kosta and his guest: Tom Savage, President of Cookeville-Putnam NAACP, Vice President of Tennessee Conference of the NAACP and Pastor at Greater Faith Church of God in Christ Livingston. In this episode: For anyone who doesn’t know, or isn’t exactly sure, what is the NAACP? At the time of this recording, earlier this week, a member of the Upper Cumberland NAACP was arrested while approaching his County Commissioner after the conclusion of the County Commission meeting. What’s your response? Why do you think it happened? You’ve lived in the Upper Cumberland your enti...
2025-07-2159 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevSee Us with Steve ChatmanJoin Kosta and his guest: Steve Chatman, Vice President of Ministry Advancement and Pastoral Care at Rising Above Ministries and Co-Host of the Rising Above Dad’s podcast. In this episode: In the Upper Cumberland alone there are more than 70,000 individuals living with special needs. Putnam County Schools averages 1 in 5 students has an IEP. This isn’t a fringe demographic, it’s a defined segment of our community. With all this in mind, why are there not more resources, opportunities and infrastructure created specifically for the over 20% of individuals in this community and state that live with specia...
2025-07-1445 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevAnniston Academy with Dr. Kathryn DuBray and Dr. Erin Crouch MekkaouiJoin Kosta and his guests: Dr. Kathryn DuBray and Dr. Erin Crouch Mekkaoui, Co-Founders of Anniston Academy, Cookeville’s first therapeutic microschool built for neurodivergent learners. In this episode: Most schools ask kids to fit the system. You built a system to fit the kids. What happens when a child actually feels seen in a classroom? You both grew up alongside autism: Kathryn as a parent, Erin as a sibling. How has that shaped the way you view education differently from traditional public or private school? We hear the word neurodivergent thrown around a lot these days. Wh...
2025-07-0749 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevIt's a Wig! with Heather DyeHey, y'all this is Kosta and today I’m here with my guest: Heather Dye, Entrepreneur, Professional Speaker and Owner of Wigs for Every Woman. In this episode: You’re a business owner, coach, mentor, community organizer and Mom. You’re the kind of person who turns a setback into an opportunity, and I think that’s the best place to start this episode. After a life-changing diagnosis of Alopecia, you started Wigs for Every Woman. Not to hide, but to show up in a whole new way. How did you feel the first time you put on a wig...
2025-06-3046 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevUnconditional Love with Bennie Taylor🌈 Happy Pride Month! Y'all means ALL, and no matter what month it is, we're proud to represent all the people who make our community better when we're together.Join Kosta and his guest: Bennie Taylor, Community Organizer, former candidate for Tennessee House of Representatives District 42 and dedicated public servant. This month and every month we recognize the LGBTQ+ community in the Upper Cumberland that makes us better when we’re together. In this episode: As always, in celebration of Pride Month, I wanted to start this episode by asking you to share your personal story (as yo...
2025-06-2356 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevTennessee Wetlands with Dr. Justin MurdockJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Justin Murdock, Ecologist, Professor of Biology, and Director of The Water Research Center at Tennessee Technological University. In this episode: Let’s start from the top, because if I’m being honest, my knowledge of Tennessee’s wetlands is that I’d assume it’s wet land. In April a bill passed the Tennessee House Legislature 71-21 to remove protections for up to 80% of Tennessee’s wetlands. What does that actually mean for our land, our water, and our safety? Lawmakers behind this bill claimed that isolated wetlands (especially small ones) are just “dam...
2025-06-1641 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevIndivisible with Aaron CoferJoin Kosta and his guest: Aaron Cofer, Community and Event Organizer for Indivisible. Indivisible Upper Cumberland is a non-partisan, issues-focused grassroots community, promoting civic engagement to hold our elected officials accountable.In this episode: We have a lot of ground to cover in this episode, but I think there’s one overarching question that sums up most of what we’re here to discuss. Does protesting work? Whether you’re on the right, left or center, we all want change. We’re in a political climate the United States has never seen before, and it’s overwhel...
2025-06-091h 04Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevBetter Than We Were with Alex GarciaJoin Kosta and his guest: Alex Garcia, Mayor of Monterey, TN. In this episode: When you were elected as Mayor, one of your greater missions was to be a new voice for Monterey. You wanted to represent Monterey in Putnam County and across the Upper Cumberland. When you think about Monterey, and how you want it to be represented, what does that mean to you? Earlier this year, we found out about the closure of Perdue Farms. This was devastating news for Monterey and the entire community. From the moment you found out you were working on...
2025-06-0239 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevWhen You Call 911 with Penny FoisterJoin Kosta and his guest: Penny Foister, Director of Putnam County 911. In this episode: I think there’s only one question we can start this episode with: what happens when we call 911? You started as an EMT in 1992 with our favorite County Mayor Mr. Randy Porter. We’d be hard pressed to find someone that knows more about emergency services in Putnam County than you, so I have to ask: what’s the hardest job in emergency services? What’s something the average person completely misunderstands about calling 911?Find out more about Putnam County 911:https...
2025-05-2633 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevJustice for All with John NisbetJoin Kosta and his guest: John Nisbet, Attorney and Founder of The Rogers Project.In this episode: We’re going to talk about what it really means to have law and order, but first I think there’s a bigger question on everyone’s mind, especially today: is there still justice for all? It’s unfortunate that we have to remind listeners this, but I think we should, representation in a court of law is a fundamental human right in the United States and most of the world. There’s a larger national conversation about where our tax dollar...
2025-05-191h 00Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Long Goodbye with Melanie HendricksJoin Kosta and his guest: Melanie Hendricks, Plateau Regional Director for Alzheimer’s Tennessee. In This Episode: Alzheimer's is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. Between 1999 and 2014 Alzheimer's deaths in Tennessee more than doubled. Collectively, we’ll do almost anything to avoid talking about aging, death and what all of this will mean for ourselves and our family. Knowing what you know, what one conversation you wish every family would have when it comes to aging, care and Alzhimer’s? To what extent is memory loss a normal part of aging? How can we tel...
2025-05-1239 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevLove First with Alex LisicJoin Kosta and his guest: Alex Lisic, Executive Pastor at Christpoint Church and Creative Director at Fufild. In this episode: Most of our listeners probably know you from your time at LifeChurch and now, Christpoint Church where you and Elizabeth serve as Executive Pastors. Will you tell us about Christpoint and what makes it such a special place to worship? Not to go too far behind the curtain here, but you kind of have two full time jobs. You’re volunteering as the Executive Pastor at Christpoint and you’re the Creative Director at Fufild. What is Fufil...
2025-05-0552 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevOur Obligation with Diana MandliJoin Kosta and his guest: Diana Mandli, scholar, entrepreneur, founder and former owner of the Bull and Thistle Gastropub. In this episode: Last week we talked with our friend Mark Dudney about the history of Jackson County and what brought us here today. Gainesboro is having a renaissance and it’s impossible to talk about the future of Jackson County without the woman that helped start it all. When you opened the Bull and Thistle in 2013 did you have any idea this would create a chain reaction that would bring Gainesboro back to life?
2025-04-2846 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevCountry Common Sense with Mark DudneyJoin Kosta and his guest: Mark Dudney, Public Historian, Regional Planner, Producer, and Educator. In this episode:They say all press is good press. I’m going to ask you later in the episode if you think that’s true, but for now I want to start with the question on everyone’s mind: what do you do when white christian nationalists move in next door? Earlier this month you shared a touching testimonial about how you’re feeling in this moment. As a native of Jackson County you spoke from the heart and for that, we...
2025-04-2129 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevCharting the Path with Mark FarleyJoin Kosta and his guest: Mark Farley, Executive Director of UCHRA, UCDD and Core Partner of Empower UC. In this episode: Many Americans are questioning how well state and federally funded services really work for this country and if the price tag justifies the outcomes. For anyone listening and thinking, this is just more government bloat - what do you say to them?I want to talk about single parents because I know this is a part of our community you care for deeply. How is UCHRA, UCDD and EmpowerUC working to assist single parents...
2025-04-141h 10Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevCamp Nakanawa with Karen Rathgeber HaleJoin Kosta and his guest: Karen Rathgeber Hale, Director of Camp Nakanawa. I hope you packed the bug spray, because this week we're going to Camp Nakanawa. In this episode: Camp Nakanawa is over 100 years old. As we’ve discussed, this is more than a camp, it’s tradition. How do you weigh the importance of preserving cherished rituals versus embracing new ideas, especially in an age of rapid cultural and technological change? Being away from home for the first time is scary. For many young people going to camp is the first time they have true inde...
2025-04-0738 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Last 5 Years with Matt BrownJoin Kosta and his guest: Matt Brown, Certified Financial Planner, Branch Manager and Generational Wealth Planner at 304 Family Wealth of Raymond James. In this episode: Money is the last taboo topic. We’d rather talk about almost anything than how much money we make or have. That’s helped create a society of people who don’t really understand how money works - or how it could work for them. What do you wish you could tell everyone about their own wealth and financial success? Thinking about the future is intimidating. As someone that works in long-term care...
2025-03-3143 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevHow to Build Your Dream Home with Catherine Jackson and Katie HallJoin Kosta and his guests: Catherine Jackson, Executive Officer of The Home Builders Association of the Upper Cumberland and Katie Hall, General Manager at Cookeville Kitchen Sales. In this episode: Building a house is like making a cake from scratch - I don’t know how. Let’s start there, because for most of us buying an existing home is confusing enough, what’s it like to build a house? From 2014 to 2024, the median price of a 3-bedroom house in Putnam County has increased over 115%. Buying a home is mathematically impossible for the majority of the Upper Cumber...
2025-03-2445 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevIt Happens Here with Lt. Heather Marshall and Det. Conor Sparkman*Disclaimer/Trigger Warning* This episode may not be appropriate for all ages and audiences as it contains candid conversations about child abuse, child predators, child sex offenders and cyber crime. Join Kosta and his guests: Lt. Heather Marshall, Public Information Officer and Detective Conor Sparkman from Cookeville Police Department. In this episode: We say this in every episode, but the Upper Cumberland is changing. We don’t live in the same world we grew up in and maybe that’s the scariest part of all. Kids don’t have to leave their room to find themse...
2025-03-1752 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevWho Should Homeschool? with Tabitha MerrittJoin Kosta and his guest: Tabitha Merritt, Director of Peach Tree Learning Center. In this episode: For many, homeschool feels like the only answer to an exceedingly difficult question. Where can my child learn where they’re safe, valued, and prepared for more than a standardized test? In your experience, when does a family know the answer is not public school? Over the next decade, education in Tennessee will change. While Education Freedom Scholarships aren’t currently available to homeschooling families, there will be a dramatic shift in where and how all Tennessee students are educated. What do y...
2025-03-1053 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevOur 200th Episode! with Jill Stalnaker🥳 Join Kosta and his 200th guest: Jill Stalnaker, Prevention Training Specialist at TN Voices, Owner of Leaning Tree Agency and Mom of 5.In this episode: In 2021 the recidivism rate in Tennessee was roughly 46%. That means that almost half of all individuals released from jail or prison were estimated to return within three years. Creating a normal life after incarceration isn’t easy. Reentry is difficult, slow and for many impossible. You help to make that process easier and more realistic. Will you tell us about TN Voices and how you’re helping to educate and empower those prepari...
2025-03-031h 03Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Winning Team with Tammy KeyJoin Kosta and his guest: Tammy Key, Owner of Key Learning and Development. In this episode: In your experience, what do the best teams have in common? There’s one thing mid-level managers, C-suite executives, parents and volunteer soccer coaches can all agree on: just because you have a group of people working together doesn’t make them a team. You’re an expert on leadership and team-building, and I think you’re the perfect person to answer the question of what makes a group of people a team? How important is self-reflection and self-knowing in this team bui...
2025-02-2450 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Weather Report with Michael DetwilerJoin Kosta and his guest: Michael Detwiler, local weather observer, member of CoCoRaHS and known across the Upper Cumberland as the Cookeville Weather Guy. In this episode: I think the only fitting first question for this episode has to be: can we actually predict the weather? Why do other weather reporters get it so wrong? You’re an on the ground weather observer and member of CoCoRaHS, for everyone just now realizing that’s how it’s pronounced will you tell us about the program and what weather observers do? Why does keeping track of weather events matter...
2025-02-1740 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevStop Blaming Start Helping with Cindy PutmanJoin Kosta and his guest: Cindy Putman. Nationally recognized educator, advocate and consultant, Cindy works as the Ready To Learn Project Manager at WCTE and is the Academic Social Interventionist for the Putnam County School System. In this episode: You facilitated the first partnership between a public school system and a PBS station. You understand the importance of public works and the importance of giving more to those with less. What’s your message to those who question the effectiveness of public education and resources in this critical time? In 2021 you received the Champion for Children Award fr...
2025-02-101h 15Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevWings Up with Tayton SwiftJoin Kosta and his guest: Tayton Swift, Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles Football Player representing the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In this episode: You’re not only a student athlete, you’re a sponsored student athlete. Will you tell us about the process of securing sponsorships and how student athletes being able to profit from their NIL changes the opportunities they have throughout their career? Even as a student you’re not missing any opportunities to build your brand and secure your legacy. How important is it for student athletes, especially student athletes who want t...
2025-02-0325 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevTyranny of the Moment with Scott MillerJoin Kosta and his guest: Scott Miller, Founder and CEO of The Poverty Solution. In conjunction with countless partners and community leaders, UCDD and The Poverty Solution are overseeing a region-wide effort to lift 1,600 children and their families out of poverty by 2025.In this episode: Poverty isn’t a fringe issue. It’s our economic reality. As someone that’s dedicated their life to helping communities alleviate poverty, what opportunities did you see in the Upper Cumberland? Getting out of poverty is hard. That might be the understatement of the century. It costs more to make money than t...
2025-01-271h 16Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevMeet in the Middle with Chad MynattJoin Kosta and his guest Chad Mynatt, Director of Manna Global Missions and Co-Director of El Puente Community Center. El Puente is a Hispanic Community Center located in Cookeville, TN. El Puente's mission is to create a welcoming community and offer resources that empower and connect the Hispanic community of the Upper Cumberland. In English “El Puente” means “Bridge”. El Puente es un centro comunitario para hispanos en Cookeville, TN.In this episode: Roughly 10% of people living in Putnam County are hispanic. It’s the fastest growing minority in Putnam County and in Tennessee. Will you te...
2025-01-2038 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevMoment by Moment with Susan Luna-HazlewoodJoin Kosta and his guest: Susan Luna-Hazlewood, Director of Crawford Alumni Center at Tennessee Tech University. In this episode: Susan, you’re the Executive Director of the Tennessee Tech Alumni Association, you’re the Director of the Crawford Alumni Center and you also serve as the University's Chief Alumni Officer - needless to say, you know TTU alumni. But what do you wish every alumni knew about TTU? Higher education is an entire ecosystem all to itself - and I know that would take another full podcast episode to explain, but if you can condense it down, why...
2025-01-1352 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Next Chapter with David UhrikJoin Kosta and his guest: David Uhrik, Owner and Director of Franklin Fixtures, US Pillars and Plenty Downtown Bookshop. In this episode: We’ll start with the most topical question first, Plenty Bookshop moved across the street from 48 West Broad Street to 41 West Broad Street on January 1st. This is Plenty’s 3rd location, and as an operations expert, I have to ask - what specifically spoke to you about this space?While many of our listeners might know you from Plenty Bookshop, and owning the company that built the You’ve Got Mail sh...
2025-01-0650 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevTitan Up with McTelvin AgimJoin Kosta and his guest: McTelvin Agim, Defensive Lineman for the Tennessee Titans.In this episode: You know better than anyone becoming a professional athlete takes a lifetime of work and dedication. Let’s go all the way back to the beginning - what was life like for you as a kid?Over the last two years you’ve signed with the Broncos, Colts, Texans, and now the Titans - you’ve had the opportunity to work with hundreds of world’s most talented athletes and coaches, but of course - all us Titans fans want to...
2024-12-3047 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevEveryone Loves Economics with Dr. Chelsea DowellJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Chelsea Dowell, Professor of Economics at Tennessee Tech University.In this episode: It was the most Googled question on November 6th, the day after the 2024 United States Presidential Election, and we’re here to ask you (a much more qualified resource than Google) what is a tariff?James Carville said it best, “It’s the economy stupid.” We’re all worried about the economy, but what exactly are we worried about? What’s made our groceries, housing and everything we spend our paycheck on, especially here in the Upper...
2024-12-231h 01Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevGrowing Well with Zakiya RobertsJoin Kosta and his guest: Zakiya Roberts, Master Gardener, Director of Growing Garners and Owner of Pots of Peace. In this episode: Through Pots of Peace you’re not only able to interconnect our community through generations, you're able to bridge the information gap that’s expanding from generation to generation. What skills are you teaching that most Millennials, Gen Z, and even some Gen Xers didn’t grow up with? Teaching families how to be more self-sufficient is a cornerstone of your brand and mission. What does self-sufficiency mean to you? Why should it be important to all...
2024-12-1641 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevCareer Day with Hailey SullivanJoin Kosta and his guest: Hailey Sullivan, Upper Cumberland CTE Consultant for the Tennessee Department of Education.In this episode: For parents, especially in the Upper Cumberland, it feels like we’re being pulled in 20 different directions to figure out what’s “best” for our children. Whether it’s going to college, getting a technical certificate or entering the workforce right out of high school, the goal post is moving everyday. What’s your advice to parents on how to prepare their children for success? Most middle school students are between the ages of 10 and 14. The majority of these kid...
2024-12-0945 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Power to Heal with Lisa MackieJoin Kosta and his guest: Lisa Mackie, Executive Director of Deeper Still Upper Cumberland. The mission of Deeper Still Upper Cumberland is to bring healing and lasting freedom to abortion wounded hearts of women and men.The Upper Cumberland chapter was founded by Lisa Mackie after she attended a Deeper Still retreat. This chapter is an affiliate of the founding Deeper Still based in Knoxville, Tennessee.Find out more about Lisa Mackie and Deeper Still Upper Cumberland:https://www.deeperstilluppercumberland.orgBetter Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan...
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Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevSeason's Greetings with Shaun ScantlandJoin Kosta and his guest: Shaun Scantland, Business Development Consultant at Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.This week we're celebrating Thanksgiving, biscuits and gravy, and all the ways we're better together.We’re honored to host Shaun on this special Thanksgiving episode, because he makes this community and podcast better everyday. Thank you to our guest host of Questions from a Cornucopia, BTwKY Producer Morgan Franklin and special guest Finn Scantland. Shaun's Dressing Recipe: Step 1: CornbreadIngredients2 cups White Lily white cornmeal mix1 1/3 cups whole milk1/4 cu...
2024-11-251h 03Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevWe Work for Cats with Jennifer Hutchinson-TracyJoin Kosta and his guest: Jennifer Hutchinson-Tracy, Director of the Putnam County Animal Shelter.In this episode: Adopting a pet is a magical experience. What’s one of your favorite adoption stories from here in Putnam County? And what do we need to know about how to adopt our next furry friend? How many animals are currently at the Putnam County Animal Shelter and what does the intake to adoption rate look like for any given month? If you could manage one misconception people have about animal shelters or even animal control, what would it be? You’ve h...
2024-11-1838 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevAll Politics Are Local with Senator Paul BaileyJoin Kosta and his guest: Senator Paul Bailey, Tennessee State Senator, Representing the 15th District.In this episode: I know some people are listening and thinking, I know what a State Senator is - but I don’t actually know. Will you walk us through what you do at the Capitol and how the State Senate impacts our lives here in the Upper Cumberland? You’re a strong supporter of small government to expedite economic growth in Tennessee. In your experience, why is small government the most effective way to govern and how is it helping to driv...
2024-11-1147 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevOn the Other Side with Amy McBroomJoin Kosta and his guest: Amy McBroom (Stockwell), Director of The Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center. In this episode: It’s almost the holidays, it’s an election year, and we’re feeling stress from every angle right now. I read something really devastating on your Facebook that sometimes people feel like they have to wait until after holidays or big life events to ask for help or leave an abusive partner because they don’t want to ruin anything. What would you say to these victims? I can’t get this information out of my head: 1 in 3 women...
2024-11-0449 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevLife on Life's Terms with Matt CollinsThis episode contains themes that may be distressing to some listeners: including child loss, death, extreme weather events and other content that is not intended for children. We understand if this episode is too overwhelming for you to listen to at this time. We hope all our audience will read the Collin's Family Story and consider making a donation to The Magnolia Foundation. Join Kosta and his guest: Matt Collins, Founder of The Magnolia Foundation. On March 3, 2020, the Upper Cumberland changed forever. For the community, it was an indescribable loss - for Matt, it was...
2024-10-2857 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevHow to Win Your Costume Contest with Amy IngJoin Kosta and his guest: Amy Ing, Owner of Spotlight Costumes.In this episode: Collectively we spend a pretty penny on Halloween, in America alone we spent 12.2 billion dollars in 2024. So, how does renting a costume from you compare to buying a costume online or at a big box store? Because after you buy the costume, wig, shoes, and accessories, it can easily be $200-$300 for a cheap costume you’re never going to wear again. Halloween is right around the corner, and in the true spirit of the season and this episode, I want to talk ab...
2024-10-2141 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevEnter If You Dare with Carroll Moore and Erica McElroyJoin Kosta and his guests: Carroll Moore and Erica McElroy, Owners of Halloween Hollow Haunted House. In this episode: Visiting a haunted house or haunted corn maze at Halloween is nothing new, but Halloween Hollow provides a multi-event experience. Will you talk about what it’s like to visit the haunt and what makes Halloween Hollow different? I love Halloween. I love scary movies. I love spooky stuff in general, but I’m terrified of haunted houses. Why do you think some people love going to in-person haunts while others absolutely hate it? This year, you have an e...
2024-10-1445 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevBeyond the Board with Eddie WalkerJoin Kosta and his guest: Eddie Walker, Magic: The Gathering community organizer and Manager of Knighthood Games.In this episode: To be totally honest with you, we’re sailing in uncharted territory. I’d venture to guess most of our audience (and myself) have very limited knowledge on games like Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons and Dragons. So let’s start there, what is tabletop gaming? In 2016 the world was reintroduced to RPGs, specifically Dungeons and Dragons through the Netflix show Stranger Things. For anyone that’s seen that show and wonders if that’s what it’s actually l...
2024-10-0747 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevA Midsemester Night's Dream with Mark CreterJoin Kosta and his guest: Mark Creter, Professor of Theatre for the School of Music at Tennessee Technological University. Proudly serving as the artistic director of the campus theatre, the Backdoor Playhouse from 1992-2024, for the past 30-years Mark's dedicated his life to the development, expansion and betterment of the performing arts at Tennessee Tech, and across the Upper Cumberland. In this episode: You’re no stranger to the partisan divide and increasingly conservative values of this community. What role does threatre and the performing arts play in leveling the playing field and turning down the temperature to...
2024-09-3037 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Missing Link with Kathryn WisingerJoin Kosta and his guest: Kathryn Wisinger, Director of the Putnam County Library.In this episode: In this community we’re lucky to have the partnership of local government, education, public resources like the library, non-profit resources like Plenty Book Store and countless businesses and community members working to improve the “book culture” as our friend Lisa Uhrik would say. *However, in Putnam County only 31% of elementary students tested at or above the proficient level for reading. What’s the missing link? As a kid I loved going to the library, now my kids love going to the libr...
2024-09-2337 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Memes That Made Us with Ryan RisherJoin Kosta and his guest: Ryan Risher, Realtor at Skender-Newton Realty representing The Risher Team.Like the rest of Tennessee we love following Ryan you on social media. Whether it’s ghost stories, memes about Cookeville or just sharing funny things that happen with your family, he always know exactly the content we want to see.In this episode we're finding out why Ryan decided to go such a different direction with his social media. How to be ourselves online (or at least try). Why there's so many real estate agents in the Cookeville an...
2024-09-1644 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevWe're Going to the Olympics with Emily ArmstrongJoin Kosta and his guest: Emily Armstrong, Graduate Student at TN Tech and photographer.A note for everyone listening to this episode, we’ll be exclusively talking about Emily’s trip to the 2024 Paris Olympics where she photographed the games’ archery competitions. She is an incredibly talented photographer and creator, so we hope you’ll look at her other work, but for now, we are going full gas, no breaks on her Olympic debut. 😀Find out more about Emily Armstrong:https://emilyarmstrongphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/emgarmstronghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/emil...
2024-09-0919 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevSheer Determination and Willpower with Téa PhillipsJoin Kosta and his guest: Téa Phillips. CEO of ATS Innovations Inc., and inventor of MetaFlex Gloves. In this episode: Roughly 20% of adults in America are living with an Arthritis diagnosis. When we lose the ability to grip or use our hands as we normally would, with conditions like Arthritis our life changes completely. For almost the past decade you’ve worked on engineering, testing and scaling a glove to help people with such mobility issues. What inspired you to start Metaflex? How does Metaflex work and who does it help the most?
2024-09-0233 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Scoop with Tyler BuckJoin Kosta and his guest: Tyler Buck, Owner of Baskin Robbins Cookeville, and coming this fall, Baskin Robbins Algood. Tyler is the youngest Baskin Robbin's franchise owner in the company's history. In this episode: Our Baskin Robbins isn’t just in the community, it’s part of the community and that’s something you’ve championed since buying the store. What does it mean to you as a business owner, especially a young business owner to be part of this community? For those that don’t know, Baskin Robbins created the franchisee model and while you don’t own the name...
2024-08-2640 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevHow Kosta Got Hacked with Dr. Muhammad IsmailPSA: If you get a random Dropbox Link from Kosta, please don't open it! 😬Join Kosta and his guest: Dr. Muhammad Ismail Director of CEROC and Associate Professor of Computer Science at Tennessee Tech University.In this episode: This goes without saying, but we use the internet for everything. Even my washer and dryer are hooked up to Wi-Fi. That being said, a cyber attack on the United States could be devastating. In your opinion, would a major cyber attack be more catastrophic than a conventional on-the-ground attack? Generally speaking: in real life, what does a c...
2024-08-1948 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevLife is Like a Box of... Algae?? with Dr. Mark GreenJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Mark Green, educator, community organizer and actor. Currently Dr. Green is a professor of biology at Tennessee Tech University and Vol State Community College where he facilitates a campus community garden and non-credit based outdoor series open to all adventurers of the Upper Cumberland. In this episode: The first thing you told us when we started working on this episode was that you were the Forrest Gump of the academic world and there couldn’t be a truer statement. From dropping out of school to join the military to later getting yo...
2024-08-121h 01Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevWe Met the Tooth Fairy with Dr. Landon SearsJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Landon Sears, Pediatric Dentist and Founder of Cavity Commando's Dentistry for Kids. In this episode: For parents who are thinking about where to take their kids to the dentist, is there a difference between pediatric dentistry and going to a normal dentist? As a parent you might think, okay my kids are going to lose these teeth anyways. What’s the big deal? Of course they need to brush and floss and get check ups, but why would your kid ever need serious dental care or procedures? Is sugar what causes ca...
2024-08-0557 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevKnow Better Do Better with Jason McCormickJoin Kosta and his guest: Jason McCormick, Director of Liquidations at Northstar Recycling Company, and former owner of R-Cubed.In this episode: The average American creates and discards roughly 5 pounds of trash per day. As someone that’s been at the forefront of recycling and circularity for the past 15 years, what do you think is the most misunderstood part of recycling? One of the top concerns of Gen-Z and the next generation of advocates is climate change and sustainability. What part does recycling on a personal and corporate level play to start slowing these challenges?Fi...
2024-07-2943 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevThe Art of You with Mitchell WhiteJoin Kosta and his guest: Mitchell White, celebrated artist, designer, and educator.In this episode: Whether it’s through painting, floral design, events or educating others - your creativity and passion for art is larger than life and larger than you. You build a community everywhere you go, and that’s the throughline of this entire episode. What’s your advice to artists, or simply people in general on how to build a better community around them? You’ve worked in the Putnam County School System for nearly 3 decades, and over the past 30 years a lot has changed...
2024-07-2246 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevOur Why Starts at The Y with Mandy PerhayJoin Kosta and his guest: Mandy Perhay, CEO of Putnam County Family YMCA. In this episode: What does our YMCA offer our community that no other facility or organization can? There are over 4,600 members at our YMCA and whether you’re 8 or 88 there’s something for everyone. Unlike most gyms, we’re encouraged to bring our kids to the Y. How does having a multigenerational space for fitness help strengthen our community? The YMCA isn’t the cheapest gym in Cookeville, it’s far from it. However, it does offer options and opportunities for all of our community...
2024-07-1523 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevIs it Radical? with Cyril FochtJoin Kosta and his guest: Cyril Focht, 2024 House of Representatives Candidate for Tennessee’s 6th District .In this episode: There are currently 3 candidates for the Democratic Primary of this seat including you, Lore Bergman and Clay Faircloth. Of the three, you’re the only candidate to raise campaign contributions with just under $55,000.00. Besides your ability to financially sustain this campaign, why do you believe you’ll be selected as the nominee on August 1st? Let’s talk specifically about the office you’re running for - Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District. This position is currently held...
2024-07-0851 minBetter Together with Kosta YepifantsevAhead of the Curve with Blakelee Paige SmithJoin Kosta and his guest: Blakelee Paige Smith, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, NP-C, Owner and Founder of Skin and Aesthetics. Skin and Aesthetics was created to provide the highest quality and excellence in aesthetic dermatology to the Upper Cumberland. What started as a dream in 2019 became reality in 2023 when Skin and Aesthetics opened in Cookeville’s own Premier Medical Park.In this episode: It seems like on every corner we have a bank, church or med spa. As a Dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner, and someone with about 30 letters behind your name, what’s your professional opin...
2024-07-011h 04Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevYour Favorite Episode with Morgan FranklinJoin Kosta and his guest: Morgan Franklin, Owner and Founder of Morgan Franklin Media, Podcast Producer, Strategist and Educator. Featured on Good Morning America, Martha Stewart Living, Style Me Pretty, The Knot Magazine and countless other publications, Morgan’s work as a podcaster, creative and brand manager spans over a decade and is just getting started.Morgan is the Producer and Co-Creator of Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev, Now or Never: Long-Term Care Strategy, The Aspiring Stylist with Tracey Franklin and most recently Podcasts for Profit with Morgan Franklin, a podcast helping business owners make mo...
2024-03-041h 00
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevWhat I Know Now with Dwight HenryJoin Kosta and his guest: Dwight Henry, Former Tennessee House State Representative, Cookeville City Council Member, Mayor and Civil Servant to the State of Tennessee. Currently, Dwight serves as a Founding Member and Member at Large of IMPACT Leadership, an organization dedicated to the development and encouragement of civic minded leaders from underrepresented populations of our society to actively serve the betterment of the community and affect positive social change. In this episode: As we go into the 2024 election year, tensions are high. How do we come together as a community instead of two halves o...
2023-11-2734 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevSeason's Greetings with Andrew BucknerJoin Kosta and his guest: Andrew Buckner, Musician, Author and Editor-in-Chief of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine. This week we're celebrating Thanksgiving, biscuits and gravy, and all the ways we're better together. In the immortal words of Adam Sandler, "Love to eat turkey, 'cause it's good. Love to eat turkey, like a good boy should." Thank you to our special guest host and officiant of Questions from a Cornucopia: Caroline Moore. Thelma’s Cornbread Recipe:Ingredients:1 Cup Cornmeal1⁄3 Cup Self-Rising Flour (Mix Cornmeal and Flour Together)3⁄4 Cup ButtermilkCooking OilNon-Stick Cooking Spray (If Using Non-Se...
2023-11-2029 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevBetter Consequences with Michael EnglandJoin Kosta and his guest: Michael England, Co-Founder and General Manager of The Exceptional Bean, an inclusive, nonprofit coffee shop created to empower individuals with disabilities to find employment and community.Find out more about The Exceptional Bean:https://www.theexceptionalbeancookeville.com/Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media and recorded in Cookeville, TN.This episode of Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is made possible by our partners at Wildwood Resort and Marina.Find out more about Wildwood Resort and Marina:
2023-11-1359 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevWant More, Be More with Megan SpurgeonJoin Kosta and his guest: Megan Spurgeon, Director of Empower Upper Cumberland at Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency. In this episode: Empower’s mission is to lift 1,600 children and their families out of poverty by 2025. What does it really mean to lift someone out of poverty? For the average person living in poverty in the Upper Cumberland what does it look like?Find out more about Empower Upper Cumberland:https://empoweruppercumberland.org/Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media and recorded in Cookeville, TN...
2023-11-0651 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevAll Roads Lead to Chick-fil-A with Ben PrineJoin Kosta and his guest: Ben Prine, Franchise Owner of Cookeville Chick-fil-A.Recently honored as Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 employer of the year, Cookeville Chick-fil-A is proud to serve the families of our community with the highest quality in food, customer service and of course - chicken.Find out more about Cookeville Chick-fil-A:https://www.cfacookeville.comBetter Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media and recorded in Cookeville, TN.This episode of Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is made possible by ou...
2023-10-3032 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevUnder Construction with Dr. Jeremy ByrdJoin Kosta and his guest: Dr. Jeremy Byrd, Executive Director of Upper Cumberland Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit Christian housing ministry, building affordable homes in partnership with God, families, and individuals in need. Did you know the median house sold in Putnam County in 2023 is $322,000. The median household income to afford that mortgage is roughly $83,000 (give or take on interest and downpayment for a first time home buyer). The real median household income in Putnam County is far below that at $49,200. That's a huge difference. Programs like Habitat for Humanity help families and...
2023-10-2337 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevOne Man's Trash with Kelly WarbisJoin Kosta and his guest: Kelly Warbis, CEO and Co-Founder of EKAMOR Resource Corporation.With a mission to drastically reduce the major challenges of managing municipal solid waste, EKAMOR is working to change the world's management of waste from an extractive economy to a circular economy.In this episode: Where does your trash go? Does recycling actually help the environment? What is carbon neutrality? Why do we hear about it so much? How is EKAMOR going to change the way we process trash in Cookeville and United States? Find out mo...
2023-10-1641 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevOur Better Angels with Justin VealsJoin Kosta and his guest: Justin Veals, Director for the Men’s Program for Independence Again, Co-Founder of The Recovery Kitchen, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Long-Term Recovering Heroin Addict with over 5 years sober from all substance abuse. Today’s episode will be touching on many subjects and issues that will be difficult to fully grasp for most of our audience. While many of us may know someone that has struggled with addiction or even homelessness, it’s hard for the everyday person to totally understand the revolving door that exists when you’re trying to restart your life.
2023-10-091h 12
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevKnowledge is Power with Corby KingJoin Kosta and his guest: Corby King, Director of Schools for Putnam County School System.Currently the 13th largest public school district in Tennessee with 22 schools, including a virtual learning school, VITAL, and an adult high school, PCSS serves over 12,000 students providing a wide range of programs and opportunities with standards-based, solid instruction and a personalized learning approach that develops the whole child socially and emotionally.Find out more about Putnam County School System:https://www.pcsstn.com/Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media...
2023-10-0259 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevDiscover Your Symphony with Dan AllcottJoin Kosta and his guest: Dan Allcott, Professor of Music at Tennessee Tech and Music Director of the Bryan Symphony Orchestra. This episode is a celebration of Dan's career as a musician, orchestral director, conductor and educator as well as a celebration for the 60th Season of the Bryan Symphony Orchestra. Bryan Symphony Orchestra features faculty and student performers from the School of Music, performing alongside area professionals. The Orchestra is supported by a collaboration between the Bryan Symphony Orchestra Association and Tennessee Technological University. Find out more about Bryan Symphony Orchestra:
2023-09-2551 min
Better Together with Kosta YepifantsevCreating a Book Culture with Ashley MichaelJoin Kosta and his guest: Ashley Michael, Co-Founder and Manager of Plenty Downtown Bookshop, a registered non-profit, community-directed bookstore providing resources to authors, dreamers, and readers alike. Find out more about Plenty Downtown Bookshop:https://www.plentybookshop.com/Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media and recorded in Cookeville, TN.This episode of Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is made possible by our partners at Wildwood Resort and Marina. Find out more about Wildwood Resort and Marina:https://wildwoodresorttn.com/
2023-09-1836 min