Growing Pains: Exploring The Challenges in a Thriving Sumner County

In this powerful episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with John DeBerry, civil rights activist, former Tennessee state legislator of 26 years, and now Senior Advisor to Governor Bill Lee. With a lifetime shaped by faith, sacrifice, service, and the example of courageous parents, DeBerry shares the deep convictions that have anchored his leadership through some of the most turbulent cultural and political moments in recent history.The conversation explores what servant leadership

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Sheriff Eric Craddock, the head of the Sumner County Sheriff’s Department and a lifelong servant of this community. Our conversation explores what public safety truly means in a rapidly growing community and why trust, transparency, and proactive policing matter more than ever. Sheriff Craddock opens up about the pressures of modern law enforcement, the importance of staying connected to the deputies on the ground, and the high

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne Dewitt sits down with Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown for an open and insightful conversation about the rapid growth reshaping Gallatin and the tough decisions required to preserve what makes this city special. Mayor Brown, now in her third term and recognized as Tennessee’s Mayor of the Year, shares how leadership, community, and courage intersect when a small Southern city becomes one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing destinations.This heartfelt discussion is

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Chris Taylor, CEO of Forward Sumner Economic Partnership and former Sumner County Budget Committee Chair, for a deep dive into how smart fiscal leadership and principled growth can shape the future of Sumner County, Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, a master’s in finance, and a heart for public service, Chris offers a rare combination of pragmatism and purpose.They discuss the truth about county

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with State Senator Ferrell Haile for an in-depth conversation on leadership, growth, and what it means to make wise, long-term investments for the future of Sumner County and Tennessee. Senator Haile, a lifelong Tennessean, farmer, pharmacist, and business owner, shares lessons learned from both the private and public sectors, offering a rare perspective on how conservative principles and fiscal discipline can guide sustainable

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Dr. Scott Langford, Superintendent of Sumner County Schools, to talk about the future of education, leadership, and community growth in Middle Tennessee. From becoming a new grandfather to leading one of Tennessee’s most dynamic school systems, Dr. Langford opens up about what it means to “develop better people for a better world.”They discuss the mission behind Sumner County Schools’ transformation, how faith, character, and

In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Lieutenant General (Ret.) Dennis Cavin, founder of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, to discuss the values, leadership, and long-term vision that are shaping the future of Sumner County, Tennessee. From lessons learned on the world’s biggest stages to the local challenges of responsible growth, education, and civic engagement, General Cavin shares why he believes “if not now, when; if not me, who”—and how that mindset led

Growing Pains is a podcast exploring the challenges and opportunities of a thriving Sumner County, Tennessee. Hosted by Deanne DeWitt and produced by the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, the show dives into the complex intersections of leadership, community growth, and responsible decision-making. Each episode highlights the voices of those shaping the county’s future; local leaders, educators, policymakers, and citizens, who share real stories of progress, setbacks, and lessons learned