This site requires JavaScript to be enabled. Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings, or upgrade to a modern browser.

Dean Selby And Ben Rodgers Speak On TDOT Aeronautics

Loading player...

Ben Rodgers sits down with Dean Selby, Executive Director of the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport, and Ryan Traversa, Director of Drones and Advanced Aviation for TDOT. A former Marine and early drone enthusiast, Ryan shares his journey through MTSU’s Aerospace Program and dives into the evolving world of drone operations — from aerial surveying to commercial delivery. Together, they discuss the complexities and potential of drone technology, aiming to reassure Tennessee residents that these innovations aren’t something to fear, but a glimpse into the future of everyday convenience and efficiency.

Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today!

11 Jul 2025 9AM English United States Society & Culture · Education

Other recent episodes

Graham Perry Joins George Halford To Discuss The Tennessee Historical Commision

George Halford sits down with Graham Perry from the Tennessee Historical Commission, whose path into history began with a love for Nashville and its evolving culture. Graham shares how traveling to historic sites — and learning more about African American history — shaped his career in social history and preservation…

23 Mar 9AM 33 min

Michelle Parrott Joins Brad Halfacre To Discuss The UT Extension Office

Putnam County is growing fast—but agriculture, education, and community roots are still at the heart of it all. Brad Halfacre sits down with Michelle Parrott, Director of the Putnam County UT Extension Office, to talk about how the county has evolved over the past 20 years and how Extension continues…

20 Mar 9AM 32 min

Lindsay Bice-Shirley And Rachel Nichols Joins Drs. Mabry & Lee To Help Spread Nicotine Prevention In The UC

There are more tobacco stores in Tennessee than McDonald’s resturaunts — let that sink in. This week, the doctors sit down with Lindsay Bice-Shirley and Rachel Nichols from the Department of Health to discuss nicotine-free initiatives happening across our 14-county region, what 56 local organizations have pledged to, and how…

19 Mar 9AM 31 min

Tammy Swafford & Jayce Weatherspoon Join Tiffany Anton As They Discuss Running A Business And Proper Cast Iron Care

What started as a hobby quickly turned into a shop full of history. On this episode, Tiffany Anton sits down with Tammy Swafford, owner of Old Standing Stone Cast Iron & More, to talk about how her love for collecting cast iron and antiques turned into a thriving small business…

18 Mar 9AM 32 min

Abbi Dunford Joins Jeremy Wendt To Discuss The History Of York Institute

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Abbi Dunford, principal of York Institute in Jamestown, to talk about leading one of Tennessee’s most unique and historic schools. From advanced CTE programs and a 400-acre working farm to dual enrollment opportunities that let students graduate with an associate degree at no cost, York…

17 Mar 9AM 32 min

All episodes