Tennessee WildCast

This week on Tennessee WildCast, we are in the Crossville office for a unique behind‑the‑scenes look at a role many listeners rarely get to hear about: TWRA’s dispatchers. Hosts Jason Harmon and Mime Barnes visit with Lieutenant Mike Beaty and Region 3 dispatcher Lynn Lehman to explore the critical work happening on the other end of the radio. From boating accidents to wildlife calls, missing boaters to bear activity, dispatchers serve as the lifeline between the public and the officers who protect Tennessee’s outdoors.Lynn shares his journey from county 911 work to TWRA and talks about the multitasking, communication, and steady focus required to support officers—especially during emergencies on the water or late nights in the field. Mike highlights the trust officers place in dispatchers and how essential they are in keeping responders safe and informed. The crew also breaks down common public calls, how information is managed, and why knowing when (and when not) to call can make all the difference.From lifesaving moments to everyday support, this episode shines a light on the people behind the scenes who help keep Tennessee’s outdoors safe. Don’t miss this eye‑opening conversation!Tune in now, follow Tennessee WildCast on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to help spread the word about the vital work of TWRA dispatchers.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Matt Cameron welcome Matt’s longtime friend and fellow outdoorsman, DJ Raley, and his son, Hunter, for a conversation that is both emotional and inspiring. Filmed at Bass Pro Shops in Kodak, Tennessee, this episode tackles a difficult topic with honesty, courage, and deep gratitude for the outdoors. DJ shares his journey following his diagnosis of ALS, often known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and opens up about how the condition has changed his life as a lifelong hunter, angler, and family man.From early signs in 2023 through countless tests and the eventual diagnosis in 2025, DJ reflects on his battle with ALS and how it has reshaped the way he experiences the woods, the water, and the traditions passed down through generations of the Raley family. With the help of adaptive equipment, a determined spirit, and unwavering family support, DJ was able to continue hunting alongside his son and father—creating memories that mean more now than ever.This episode, titled “Until You Can’t,” reminds us all not to take our abilities or our time outdoors for granted. DJ speaks openly about faith, family, and the beauty of God’s creation, offering encouragement to anyone facing a difficult road. It’s a touching reminder of the legacy we leave behind and the eternal hope that guides us.Tune in, listen closely, and go enjoy the outdoors—while you can.

In this on‑location episode of Tennessee WildCast, hosts Jason Harmon and Matt Cameron join TWRA’s Captain Roy Smith and TVA’s Harrison Strickland at Bass Pro Shops in Kodak to talk about one of the most important topics in outdoor recreation: boating safety. With water levels dropping across East Tennessee and dams presenting unseen risks, this conversation digs into what every boater needs to know before getting out on the water.Captain Smith, a 22‑year veteran and boating incident investigator, shares his firsthand experiences responding to crashes, investigating fatalities, and supporting families in the toughest moments. He discusses how complacency, low water, and a lack of awareness can turn a routine day on the lake into a dangerous situation—especially when life jackets aren’t worn.Harrison Strickland explains TVA’s role in public safety around dams, from warning systems to outreach efforts. He reflects on the powerful educational impact of the crushed boat display used at events like the Bassmaster Classic, where countless boaters realized just how quickly conditions near dams can turn deadly.Together, they highlight why drought conditions, hidden hazards, and outdated navigation tracks call for slower speeds, sharper situational awareness, and a renewed commitment to life‑saving habits.Whether you're casting a line, cruising with family, or exploring new water, this episode is packed with insights that can help keep you safe. Listen, learn, and share the message—because one preventable tragedy is one too many.

Tennessee WildCast is back with another great episode, and this week we’re diving deep into the world of private lands habitat management with longtime friend of the show, Clint Borum. Co‑host Don King joins Jason Harmon as they highlight one of Tennessee’s most valuable resources—its private landowners—and the dedicated biologists who help them enhance wildlife habitat across the state.Clint shares his family’s rich, multigenerational history with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, dating back to his father’s service as a wildlife officer beginning in 1975. Growing up in the woods, he developed a lifelong passion for wildlife and now serves as a private lands biologist helping landowners in 26 Middle Tennessee counties transform their property for deer, turkey, quail, songbirds, and more.In this episode, Clint breaks down how the private lands program works, the importance of partnerships with USDA and NRCS, and how federal conservation programs bring millions of dollars into Tennessee to improve soil, air, water, and wildlife. He explains how he works with everyone—from small‑acreage owners with a zero‑turn mower, to large landowners with full farm equipment—to develop management plans that fit their goals and capabilities.Listeners will also hear success stories, learn when and how to get started with habitat projects, and discover resources available at TNWildlife.org to connect with biologists across the state.Whether you’re managing five acres or 2,000, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiration to help you make your land better for wildlife. Tune in, share the show, and keep enjoying Tennessee’s great outdoors!

Tennessee WildCast is back with another great episode, and this week Don King steps in for host Jason Harmon, who’s out on a special assignment.  Don is joined by Region 2 Public Relations Coordinator Barry Cross, who previews an exciting new event coming up May 30: Wilderness Day in the Glade at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Born from a simple deer‑scoring day, the event has grown into a full family‑friendly outdoor celebration. Visitors can explore TWRA exhibits, meet biologists, learn about tree stand safety, watch fly‑casting demos, talk with Tennessee State Parks staff, check out live raptors, and even see a mounted local black bear at the BearWise booth. Food trucks, giveaways, and hands‑on activities will round out the day.Barry also highlights the importance of the Tennessee Hunting and Fishing Guidebook, the work that goes into its creation, and why it’s such a valuable resource for hunters and anglers. The conversation covers everything from TWRA’s quarterly magazine to wildlife habitat management, Free Fishing Day events, and Barry’s own journey into outdoor communications.Whether you’re a seasoned sportsman, a new family looking to explore the outdoors, or someone curious about TWRA’s behind‑the‑scenes work, this episode offers inspiration and information for all ages. Join Don and Barry for a lively discussion, and make plans to visit Wilderness Day in the Glade on May 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Stay connected with TWRA at tnwildlife.org and follow us on social media.