*Next show June 11: Katie Smith, TNVacation for all*
*Next show June 11: Katie Smith, TNVacation for all*
“Where you hear the other half of the story.”
News, Interviews, and Commentary from Sumner County's Most Controversial Radio Show.
Listen live Wednesdays on WQKR at 5pm, replay Thursdays at 7pm, Sundays at 5pm and anytime on your favorite podcast app.
Why "The Loyal Opposition”?
We stand opposed to the supermajority and other right-wing extremists while remaining loyal to the Tennessee and United States Constitutions.
"The opposition performs an adversarial function critical to democracy itself… Governments have no right to question the loyalty of those who oppose them. Adversaries remain citizens of the same state … servants of the same law." — author Michael Ignatieff
We are a voice for the people of Sumner County and beyond who have been left behind by many of our elected officials, a voice rarely heard today in local media. We are hard-hitting but fair - opinionated but backed up with facts and expert testimony.
Coverage includes local and county politics, the state legislature, national issues, and individuals and organizations making a positive impact in our community.
We welcome the opportunity to partner with like-minded individuals and organizations.
Our mission is to be the catalyst for positive change in our community by telling "the other half of the story." Read about us HERE, HERE and HERE.
Your Hosts Len & Michele

Len Assante is a long-time resident of Sumner County active in local politics, non-profits, and civic organizations. A life-long educator in communications, he enjoys helping students expand their skills and knowledge. He is a recipient of a Tennessee Press Association award for editorial writing, and the Communication Educator of the Year Award from the Tennessee Communication Association. He holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Communication and has been a private pilot for 42 years. He is the founder of TLO Media, LLC.
Len is joined by co-host Michele Harbin. Michele also holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Communication and currently works in special event production as a catering and event specialist in middle TN. She is married with two kids and has a very healthy relationship with shouting the truth about Tennessee politics on her social channels. Michele is TLO’s Director of Social Engagement.
About WQKR
WQKR AM/FM/.COM is TLO’s broadcast home. It has been Portland's radio station since first going on the air in 1980. For 40 years they have informed, entertained, and served as the voice of and for Portland, TN.
Since 2004, they have gone from a daytime-only to a 24-hour AM station; increased their power; and added FM, all to better serve their listeners throughout northern Middle Tennessee, including Portland, White House, Westmoreland, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Hartsville, Lafayette, Orlinda, Cross Plains, and other parts of both Sumner and Robertson Counties in Tennessee and Simpson & Allen County in Kentucky.
They are the people's radio station and wants to do it better than anyone else. Music, news, talk, and sports - Portland's radio station. WQKR 101.7fm, 1270am, and at wqkr.com.
Some Past Shows
From Civic Awareness to Musical Inspiration: Local Artist Mollie Lynne Channels Experience Into Music
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assantei introduces the show’s mission of providing a platform for dissenting voices and diverse opinions in government policies. Len discusses an upcoming town hall meeting led by Lori Bergman in Hendersonville, followed by a critical analysis of Governor Bill Lee’s endorsement of the Trump budget, highlighting its adverse impacts on working families.
The main conversation is an interview with singer-songwriter and registered nurse Mollie Lynne, who discusses her background, her music's inspiration, and her efforts in advocacy through song. Mollie shares insights into nursing and healthcare, and performs a song titled Who Cooked The Last Supper, dedicated to the unsung women in history. Upcoming events and appearances by Mollie are also showcased. Mollie’s music can be found on all the streaming services.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
Visit Mollie’s website: https://mollielynne.com/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.
From Civic Awareness to Musical Inspiration: Local Artist Mollie Lynne Channels Experience Into Music
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assantei introduces the show’s mission of providing a platform for dissenting voices and diverse opinions in government policies. Len discusses an upcoming town hall meeting led by Lori Bergman in Hendersonville, followed by a critical analysis of Governor Bill Lee’s endorsement of the Trump budget, highlighting its adverse impacts on working families.
The main conversation is an interview with singer-songwriter and registered nurse Mollie Lynne, who discusses her background, her music's inspiration, and her efforts in advocacy through song. Mollie shares insights into nursing and healthcare, and performs a song titled Who Cooked The Last Supper, dedicated to the unsung women in history. Upcoming events and appearances by Mollie are also showcased. Mollie’s music can be found on all the streaming services.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
Visit Mollie’s website: https://mollielynne.com/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.
Exploring Faith, Music, and Politics in Sumner County With A Special Guest Plus the News Roundup
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin discuss a range of topics, starting with a sunny day in Portland, Tennessee, and Michelle’s summer school plans. They then share highlights from the Sumner County Democrats spring picnic, where they enjoyed good food, raised funds, and saw a youthful demographic shift in the party. The hosts discuss political news, including the conviction of Republican ex-Speaker Glen Cassada on corruption charges and the closure of Kid Rock’s restaurant due to ICE raids. The show also delves into the implications of a new Republican tax bill on middle-income Americans and Tennessee’s healthcare system.
Special guest Becky Yates, Michele's mom, shares her journey from Southern Baptist roots to becoming a progressive-minded Methodist minister. Becky discusses the challenges women face in ministry, the conservative takeover of the Southern Baptist Convention, and her subsequent disillusionment with organized religion. She highlights how her faith drives her political views, particularly the importance of love and compassion. The episode concludes with a discussion on finding community through music. Becky talks about her involvement with the Nashville in Harmony choir, a group supporting the LGBTQ community and their allies, and Vox Grata, a women's chorus focused on empowering women through music. The show wraps up with announcements and a teaser for the next episode featuring singer-songwriter Molly Lynne.
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers.
Vox Grata Women’s Choir https://voxgrata.com/
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry: AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA: https://artemis.cpa/
Sumner County Library System Under Attack, ICE Raids, Local Politics, and Community Involvement: A Deep Dive with Michelle Harbin and Megan Lange
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, Michele Harbin and Megan Lang, chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party, delve into issues affecting Sumner County and beyond. The discussion begins with a focus on local library policies, including controversial changes to collections and fundraising policies, and the impact these could have on the community. They also highlight the recent upsurge in ICE activities in Nashville and their wider implications. On a broader scale, the duo examines proposed federal cuts that could significantly affect Tennessee, discussing everything from disaster relief funds to Medicaid cuts. They emphasize the need for community support through mutual aid and engagement in local politics. Upcoming community events and actions sponsored by the Sumner Democratic Party are outlined, encouraging listeners to stay involved and make a difference. This episode serves as a comprehensive update on current affairs and a call to action for community engagement.
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things
Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers
Sumner County Democratic Party: https://sumnerdems.org/
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry: AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA: https://artemis.cpa/
Title: The Loyal Opposition: Education Funding, Wetlands Policy, and the Beauty of National Parks. In this episode of The Loyal Opposition Show, host Len Assante, alongside guest host Carolina Kelly, discusses several pressing issues and upcoming local events.
Summary: This week’s show begins with a critique of Tennessee's low ranking in K-12 student spending, teacher pay, and reliance on federal funding. Len argues that the state's legislative focus on private school vouchers and DEI dismantling is detrimental to the education system. The conversation progresses to indictments of a former
Tennessee representative linked to corruption and the legislature's recent anti-DEI policies.
Carolina then interviews Professor Allen Babiarz-Lira about Vol State's upcoming Fusion Culture Crawl event, featuring student art, music, and performances.
The show transitions to an engaging discussion with returning guest, journalist, and author Ren Brabenec, who delves into the significance of national parks and his newly co-authored book, Wilderness and Wonder: An Illustrated Guide to the National Parks.
Ren also discusses the environmental and administrative impacts of recent policy changes at both federal and state levels, particularly concerning wetlands and the national park system's staffing and funding challenges. The show concludes with announcements of upcoming events. Ren’s book is here.
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
Title: Advocacy Through Music and Community: Talking music with the Portara Ensemble and law with Assistant DA Tara Wyle
Summary: In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes Tony Jackson and Jason Shelton of the Portara Ensemble, who talk about their upcoming collaboration with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jill Farnam from explains the organization’s mission and their special concert event. Additionally, Assistant District Attorney Tara Wyle joins to provide a deep dive into the legal system in Sumner County, discussing the balance between rehabilitation and incarceration. Tara also shares her passion for community service, including her involvement in the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce and her unexpected love for turtle rescue.
Potara Ensemble: https://www.portaraensemble.com/about-1
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee: https://wish.org/midtn
And as usual, we’re the number one source for state and local news.
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things
Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
TITLE: Cybersecurity in the Age of DOGE
SUMMARY: In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes two guests: Ms. Bonnie Fussel and Jolie Grace Wareham. Len opens the show with a few announcements from the Sumner County Democratic Party, including upcoming events.. The first guest, Ms. Bonnie Fussel, shares insights about Haven, a support group for families dealing with dementia, highlighting their upcoming meeting and activities to help both caregivers and patients.
The second half of the show features Jolie Grace Wareham, CEO of Protasec, who delves into the world of cybersecurity. Jolie discusses the implications of phishing schemes, the importance of password managers, and real-world impacts of cyber threats on small businesses. She emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and the role of government policy in cybersecurity. Len and Jolie end with a discussion on reporting cyber incidents and thoughts on the TikTok controversy.
The Haven: facebook.com/HavenPortland or call 615-325-3291
Protasec: https://protasec.com/
Sumner County Democratic Party: sumnerdems.org
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things
Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found on: any podcast platform.
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry: AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA: https://artemis.cpa/
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition,' host Michele Harbin discusses the legislative challenges in Tennessee, particularly House Bill 793 that impacts immigrant children’s right to education, as examined with guest Luis Mata from the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition. The conversation details the dire effects the bill could have on immigrant families and public education, highlighting compelling testimonies from affected citizens.
Furthermore, Michelle interviews Jessie and her daughter Cecily from 'You, Me, and Tennessee boutique, discussing their journey as women entrepreneurs in Tennessee and the obstacles they faced in the business landscape. The episode wraps up with Michelle’s commentary on the impact of tariffs on Tennessee’s economy and upcoming Democratic events aimed at fostering community and political engagement.
Host Len Assante and co-host Michele Harbin welcome listeners to The Loyal Opposition, a show dedicated to championing diverse voices and airing dissent against the supermajority’s policies. This episode highlights a range of topics, including US Senator Cory Booker’s 25-hour floor speech, the Trump administration's firing of TVA board members, and various contentious legislative bills in Tennessee. The episode also covers historical anecdotes about April Fool’s Day and discusses serious legislative issues such as the dismantling of DEI programs and criminalizing undocumented immigrants. Alongside these discussions, the show includes segments about local Tennessee news, upcoming political events, and interviews with special guests like Frida Player from Emerge Tennessee, Megan Lange the new Sumner County Democratic Party Chairwoman, and Adam Altendorf from Organize Tennessee.
Frida shares her insights into training and empowering women to run for office. Megan Lange, the new chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party, outlines her plans for the future of the organization. Adam outlines Organize Tennessee’s mission and their
emphasis on voter engagement. The episode emphasizes active civic engagement and participation to counteract negative policies and encourage fair, inclusive governance.
Organize Tennessee - organizetennessee.org
Emerge Tennessee - https://tn.emergeamerica.org/
Sumner County Democratic Party - sumnerdems.org
And as usual, we’re the number one source for state and local news.
Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find:
Easy link to email your Representatives, Upcoming take action events, A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things
Links mentioned in the show, And our supporters and advertisers!
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition,' host Michele Harbin discusses the legislative challenges in Tennessee, particularly House Bill 793 that impacts immigrant children’s right to education, as examined with guest Luis Mata from the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition. The conversation details the dire effects the bill could have on immigrant families and public education, highlighting compelling testimonies from affected citizens.
Furthermore, Michelle interviews Jessie and her daughter Cecily from 'You, Me, and Tennessee boutique, discussing their journey as women entrepreneurs in Tennessee and the obstacles they faced in the business landscape. The episode wraps up with Michelle’s commentary on the impact of tariffs on Tennessee’s economy and upcoming Democratic events aimed at fostering community and political engagement.
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition,' host Michele Harbin discusses the legislative challenges in Tennessee, particularly House Bill 793 that impacts immigrant children’s right to education, as examined with guest Luis Mata from the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition. The conversation details the dire effects the bill could have on immigrant families and public education, highlighting compelling testimonies from affected citizens.
Furthermore, Michelle interviews Jessie and her daughter Cecily from 'You, Me, and Tennessee boutique, discussing their journey as women entrepreneurs in Tennessee and the obstacles they faced in the business landscape. The episode wraps up with Michelle’s commentary on the impact of tariffs on Tennessee’s economy and upcoming Democratic events aimed at fostering community and political engagement.