XPLR.NASH Podcast

Jam-Packed Success: The Story of Farmstead Nashville w/ Gary BaronJoin us on the XPLR.NASH Podcast as we sit down with Gary Baron, the mastermind behind Farmstead Nashville and the former Nashville Jam Company. Discover how a humble jar of strawberry jalapeño jam sparked a journey from farmer's markets to co-packing for some of Nashville's top restaurants. Gary shares his entrepreneurial insights, from navigating food science and manufacturing challenges to building lasting business relationships.We also dive into the evolution of Nashville's food scene, the ups and downs of running a restaurant, and how a simple passion for q...

Twenty-five musicians. One stairwell. One chaotic take. That’s where the journey began for Chris Ruediger and the now-viral 615 House. In this episode, Chris sits down to unpack the wild story behind their most iconic shoot, the strategy behind standing out in a saturated digital world, and the founding of Fort Nash—a growing media empire rooted in country culture and collaboration.

We talk about:

The importance of defining your brand before you post

How 615 House helped launch country artists like Ashley Cooke and Spencer Crandall

Why Nashville still might be a 10...

Tech, Beards, and Laughs: Joel Beasley’s Journey from CTO to Comedy

Join us on this fascinating journey with Joel Beasley, the mind behind Modern CTO, a podcast that dives deep into the tech world, leadership, and innovation. In this episode, we get to know Joel beyond the microphone—from his unexpected leap into comedy to his passion for growing the perfect beard. We explore how AI is shaping the future of cities, his personal journey from software engineering to stand-up comedy, and the joys (and challenges) of fatherhood.

Joel shares his personal experiences, including how...

In this episode of the XPLR.NASH10 podcast, we sit down with filmmaker and creative mastermind Jordan. From his first time shooting out of a helicopter to working on WWE documentaries and navigating the wild world of Hollywood, Jordan shares his unique journey through filmmaking, creativity, and storytelling.

We also dive into his thoughts on Nashville's growth, the evolution of content creation, the future of wrestling in Las Vegas, and some mind-blowing insights into ancient civilizations and modern myths. Plus, a few unforgettable food recommendations in Nashville! Buckle up – this one’s a ride!

In this episode of the Explore Nash Podcast, Stuart Deming sits down with Nashville native and longtime collaborator Joe Penna for one of our most honest and personal conversations yet.

From growing up across Middle Tennessee to living in cities like Houston and New Orleans, Joe has seen the best and worst of what Nashville was—and what it’s becoming. Together, Stuart and Joe explore the controversial idea that southern hospitality might be a facade, especially in today's fast-paced, rapidly changing Nashville.

We break down:

The tension between old Nashville and new Nash...

In this episode of the XPLR NASH Podcast, we sit down with Matt Burrill, co-owner of Raised Rowdy — one of Nashville’s rowdiest country music brands. From hosting Bailey Zimmerman’s first-ever performance to helping artists like Josh Ross and Ole 60 before they blew up, Matt shares how Raised Rowdy has built a powerful live music community in the heart of Music City.

🎤 What you’ll hear in this episode:

Tennessee is losing 60,000 acres of farmland and natural spaces every year — that's like losing a state park annually. In this episode of the XPLR.NASH Podcast, we sit down with Jon D. B. from TennGreen Land Conservancy to uncover why this is happening and what’s being done to protect Tennessee’s incredible natural landscapes. 🌲🌄From the Cumberland Trail, a 300-mile trail in the making, to the hidden caves beneath Nashville and wildlife making a comeback (like black bears, elk, and bobcats), we explore it all. We also tackle how conservation crosses political and worldview lines — and why everyone should care ab...

Join us as we sit down with Charles Hatcher of Hatcher Family Dairy to discuss the deep-rooted history, challenges, and innovations of running a multi-generational dairy farm in Middle Tennessee. From the impact of real estate on farming to the rise of local food movements and cutting-edge technology like robotic milking, Charles shares insights on the evolving world of agriculture.

We also dive into:

In this episode, we sit down with Giovanna and Jared, the passionate owners behind Tutti Da Gio, one of the top-rated Sicilian restaurants in the U.S. according to Yelp! They share their incredible journey, from Giovanna’s upbringing in Sicily and her deep-rooted love for cooking to the challenges of opening a restaurant in Nashville and going viral overnight.We dive into what makes Sicilian cuisine so unique, the importance of slowing down to enjoy food, and the struggles of finding dedicated talent in the restaurant industry. Plus, they reveal what American food surprised Giovanna the most!If yo...

👉 What REALLY goes on in Nashville’s top restaurants? From the rise of French cuisine, to the truth about culinary school, and the hustle of running a top-tier food business in Nashville, this episode is packed with insider secrets you won’t hear anywhere else!Featuring:Brian Morris – Executive Chef of Hattie B’sAndy Little – Culinary Director at Strategic Hospitality (formerly of Josephine)What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The real challenges of running a restaurant in Nashville✅ Why culinary school might be a waste of money ✅ The biggest mistakes new restaurant owners make✅ How pop-ups & collaborations are changing the food indus...

🍕 Is this the BEST Chicago deep dish pizza in Nashville?

🍕In this episode, we sit down with the owners of 312 Pizza Company, the family-owned and operated hotspot serving up authentic Chicago-style deep dish right here in Nashville!

We dive into:

✅ What makes their deep dish pizza so legendary 🍕🔥

✅ How quality ingredients set them apart from the rest

✅ The challenges & pivots of surviving in Nashville’s evolving food scene

✅ How they turned their parents’ dream into a reality 💡

✅ What it’s REALLY like running a family...

Rebranding Las Vegas & Building Personal Brands w/ John Mediana | XPLR.NASH Podcast In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of city branding, personal identity, and business growth with John Mediana—a brand expert who played a key role in rebranding Las Vegas and has worked with major names like Gary Vee, Alex Hormozi, and John Crist.https://www.executivebrandgrowth.com/🔥 What You’ll Learn:🔹 The behind-the-scenes process of rebranding an entire city 🌆🔹 How John discovered he was adopted at 8 years old and how that shaped his identity 💡🔹 Lessons from working with top executives, creators, and cities🔹 Why Nashville’s branding migh...

Get ready for a hilarious and inspiring chat with Luke White, the internet sensation redefining country music satire! With over 100 million views, Luke has won over audiences by poking fun at country music and small-town life in a way that’s both relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. In this episode, Luke takes us behind the scenes of his incredible journey—from traveling the world with a nonprofit to meeting his future business partner in China, moving to Nashville, and launching a clothing brand. After selling his share of the business, Luke set out to build his own brand, paving the way...

In our XPLR NASH podcast with David Rives, we explored the Wonders Center and Science Museum's mission to promote a creationist view of Earth's formation. David discussed the museum's exhibits and its aim to align scientific evidence with the biblical creation account. We examined the challenges and advantages of both creationism and Darwinism, addressing scientific and theological arguments, and the criticism creationism faces from mainstream science. The discussion provided a balanced look at how both perspectives approach questions of origin and life's complexity, offering listeners insights into this ongoing debate.

In the latest episode of the XPLR NASH podcast, we delved into the riveting world where real weapons meet unbridled passion – Nashville Armored Combat. Our exploration led us through the visceral experiences of some of the world's foremost Armored Combat fighters, providing an intimate insight into a realm that transcends conventional sports. This isn't just a sport; it's a lifestyle. The podcast episode offered a front-row seat to witness the unparalleled skills of elite Armored Combat fighters, revealing the raw power, intense strategy, and unyielding dedication that define this extraordinary discipline. The anticipation for the colossal Armored MMA fights, scheduled fo...

In this episode of the "XPLR NASH Podcast," join us for an insightful discussion with special guest District 14 Council Member Jordan Huffman from the vibrant city of Nashville, TN. Strap in as we explore the recent affairs shaping the heart of Music City, including critical topics such as the removal of the homeless camp in Hermitage, the aftermath of the recent mulch fire on Central Pike, and the broader implications of city-wide transit plans. Council Member Huffman, representing the diverse district of Hermitage, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for community service. Tune in to hear him share...

In the latest episode of the XPLR.NASH Podcast, Stuart, engages in a captivating conversation with Joseph Ricci, the lead historian from the Battle of Franklin Trust. Joseph Ricci provides a compelling insight into the origins and nuances of the Battle of Franklin, unraveling its profound impact on the Civil War and its lasting reverberations throughout American history. As the discussion unfolds, Stuart and Joseph Ricci not only preview the forthcoming events but also offer a thought-provoking journey through the historical tapestry of the Battle of Franklin, underscoring its significance in the broader context of the nation's narrative.

The XPLR.NASH Podcast recently featured a captivating interview with Zachery Bell, a distinguished veteran of the United States Marine Corps, renowned for his Instagram account, @veteranwithasign. We talk about Zach's announcement of his forthcoming podcast, "The After Action Podcast." In the interview, Stuart talks with Zach about his life, military career, and his experiences in the city of Nashville. Zach's Instagram account, @veteranwithasign, has garnered a significant following due to his poignant and often humorous signs that shed light on the struggles and triumphs of veterans. In his new podcast venture, "The After Action Podcast," this initiative promises to...

On the latest episode of Nashville Daily, Mayor Freddie O'Connell's ambitious plans for East Bank development take center stage. He's aiming to strike a development deal at Metro Council this quarter, promising exciting changes for the city's future. To support this growth, Metro has enlisted the expertise of Kimley-Horn to engineer and design vital East Bank infrastructure, laying the foundation for the area's transformation. In the realm of entertainment, Nashville is set to ring in the New Year with an impressive lineup featuring country stars like Thomas Rhett and Lainey Wilson at "Nashville's Big Bash." Plus, the Grand Ole Opry...

Nashville gets a new everything! Freddie O’Connell swears in as Nashville’s next mayor; BNA opens their new international gates; and the East Bank brings forward phase one of their development outside of the new Titans stadium.

Shane Nasby of Cledis and J.P. Murphey of Cabin Attic joins the podcast to talk about the beginnings of some beautiful burger collaborations that serve a great cause.

Nissan Stadium just held the most football fans that it has ever seen when UT came to play on Saturday.

Will Nashville become a surfing destination for the South?

Nashville’s airport traffic has surpassed projections by 13 years! The BNA CEO says the airport should double in size at minimum.

Metro Council has voted to make sure Broadway has standards for loudness coming from the bars and Honky Tonks. But is it too loud? Or are there a few that are ruining it for many?

Nashville SC enters into the finals, but if you want to see them in person, you may have to sacrifice a few trips to your favorite local restaurants for a few weeks!

We debate if Music City's rapid growth fuels innovation or threatens its charm. We discuss urban development, culture clashes, and sustainable expansion.

Dive into the thrill of Tennessee State Fair's top rides! Experience roller coasters, spins, and endless smiles in this joy-packed fairground extravaganza. Adrenaline junkies and families, get ready for an unforgettable adventure that's bound to create cherished memories.

The Wilson County/Tennessee State fair begins in just a few short days, and it may contain possibly some of the most unique and special entertainment in the state of Tennessee.

Metro Council passes the Fairgrounds Speedway renovations to the next group. A gulch hotel is looking to get a little taller. Plus, Nashville has announced a new professional sports team to its roster.

The Tennessee Titans released a new video highlighting many of the features of their new stadium.

Nashville’s “newest” neighborhood announces three new massive towers. We recap our weekend experience at the Music City Grand Prix. Plus, Belmont snags a local Nashville pizza favorite for their campus.

Nashville Daily goes live from The Shire! Well... not quite, but we have found The Shire only an hour away from Nashville.

Mayoral frontrunner Freddie O’Connell and candidate Alice Rolli will now face a head to head race going into September’s election. Several other upsets and runoffs came from yesterday’s election as well. Take a listen to today’s podcast for more information.

The Chef and I is a locally owned, award-winning restaurant, catering, and teambuilding company with locations in Nashville, TN and Orlando, FL. Husband and wife duo Chris and Erica Rains have been creating culinary experiences locally for 15 years. The teambuilding division is fast becoming a major draw to local and national clients sending employees and vacation groups to Nashville for food and fun!

Today we visit the newly opened Ravenwood park in Hermitage, Tennessee.

Live from the overlook of Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains, we talk about how it is to best explore the State of Tennessee.

Julie Meirick of M.L. Rose Craft Beer and Burgers comes onto Nashville Daily to talk about the launch of their new food and a preview of their new drink menu for September. Julie and Stuart also talk about a new unique menu item that could be an all-time favorite.

Robert, a native of Tennessee, joined the Metro Nashville Police Department in 2007.Over a decade later, he started Covert Results, which is a licensed and insured investigations, armed security, cyber security and training company that provides honest services to law firms, businesses, corporations, and individuals. He then founded Operation Rose, whose mission is to educate and create actionable solutions to preventing and combating human trafficking in Tennessee.

Food entrepreneur and podcast host Justin Bizzarro joins today’s podcast to talk about his experience in the food industry, what he’s learned as an entrepreneur, and how he found a food home here in Nashville, Tennessee.