*Next show February 18, Congressional Candidate Lore Bergman*
*Next show February 18, Congressional Candidate Lore Bergman*
“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
S04 E04 The Loyal Opposition: An Incredible Rundown of Governor Lee’s Broken Promises Then Meet Joni Cochrane, Candidate for TN Senate District 17
Great show this week! This episode features an engaging interview with Joni Cochran, candidate for State Senate District 17, who talks about her motivations and plans for change. Additionally, hosts Len and Michele focus on Governor Lee’s unfulfilled promises from his previous state address. They highlight key issues facing Tennesseans, including the lack of new daycare spots, failed initiatives like the $60 million starter home fund, and soaring costs in housing, healthcare, and childcare. They also discuss the alarming statistics on violent crime and gunshot fatalities among children in Tennessee, underfunded public schools, and the struggle of families to meet basic needs due to high living costs. Additionally, Michele shares her journey into real estate, offering new insights and plans for future updates.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
S04 E04 The Loyal Opposition: An Incredible Rundown of Governor Lee’s Broken Promises Then Meet Joni Cochrane, Candidate for TN Senate District 17
Great show this week! This episode features an engaging interview with Joni Cochran, candidate for State Senate District 17, who talks about her motivations and plans for change. Additionally, hosts Len and Michele focus on Governor Lee’s unfulfilled promises from his previous state address. They highlight key issues facing Tennesseans, including the lack of new daycare spots, failed initiatives like the $60 million starter home fund, and soaring costs in housing, healthcare, and childcare. They also discuss the alarming statistics on violent crime and gunshot fatalities among children in Tennessee, underfunded public schools, and the struggle of families to meet basic needs due to high living costs. Additionally, Michele shares her journey into real estate, offering new insights and plans for future updates.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition
S04 E03 Interview with Mike Croley: Congressional Candidate for the Tennessee 6th District - Affordability, Accountability, and Accessibility
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes Mike Croley, a candidate for Congress from the 6th District of Tennessee. The discussion begins with Mike’s background, including his military and public service career, and his motivations for running for office. Mike discusses gerrymandering issues in Tennessee, the need for campaign finance reform, and Mike’s primary campaign platform: affordability, accountability, and accessibility. Mike shares his plans to engage with constituents through a series of town halls and his innovative “Your Voice, Tennessee” initiative aimed at making legislative decisions more participatory. Len and Mike also address pressing concerns like the minimum wage and immigration enforcement policies. Mike emphasizes the importance of listening to voters and representing their true interests in Congress. Listeners are encouraged to visit his campaign website and participate in upcoming events.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts
To learn more or to support Mike, please visit his website: CroleyforCongress.com
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S04 E02
Conversation with Journalist Ren Brabenec - Addressing State Concerns on Gun Control to the Impact of AI on Electricity Bills
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante provides a critical look at a range of pressing issues facing Sumner County and beyond. The show opens by addressing a significant rise in children spending nights in Department of Children’s Services offices and a controversial Republican bill concerning public hearings for energy company acquisitions. Len discusses Governor Lee’s private school voucher scheme, highlighting its inequities and inefficiencies.
Special guest freelance journalist Ren Brabenec joins the conversation, sharing insights on gun rights and control and discussing his latest works. Brabenec delves into corporate influence over gun policies and stresses the importance of community actions in tackling gun violence. The episode also touches on rising electricity bills due to AI and data centers, emphasizing the need for local community awareness and holistic assessments of new projects. Tune in for in- depth discussions, breaking news, and engaging commentary on these critical topics.
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S04 E01
Welcome to Season Four of TLO!
In this episode, Len and Michele welcome Sumner County Democratic Party Chair Megan Lange as we discuss political issues both local and national.
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E41
The Loyal Opposition: Wanna Be a Movie Star? The Film Industry in Middle Tennessee
Plus An Update On The New Political Landscape.
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante talks with screen writer Mark Brown and educator Allan Babiarz-Lira. They discuss middle Tennessee politics and then have an in-depth conversation on the film industry in Tennessee.
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition: Len and Michele Have An In-depth Discussion With The Amazing Courtenay Rogers Along With The News And A Special Report On School Bus Safety in Portland.
Courtenay is a former Naval Officer and political candidate, and current owner of CoRo Consulting. Courtenay a keen observer of Tennessee politics and offers her insights into the current state of Tennessee and local politics. And as a bonus the show kicks off with a story you won’t want to miss about school bus safety in Portland.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
CoRo Consulting: https://www.coroconsulting.co/
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E39
The Loyal Opposition: Unity and Democracy with Dr. Samar Ali
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin interview Dr. Samar Ali from Vanderbilt University’s Project on Unity and American Democracy. The conversation delves into the role of trust in political institutions, the impact of Citizens United, the Unity Index, and steps towards achieving peace and unity in a fragmented society. Dr. Ali also shares insights from her research on peacemaking and mediation, stressing the need for community building and nonviolence. The show also provides a overview local political events and provides commentary on Tennessee’s state policies and national election results.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
The Vanderbilt University Project on Unity and American Democracy: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/unity/
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E39
The Loyal Opposition: Unity and Democracy with Dr. Samar Ali
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin interview Dr. Samar Ali from Vanderbilt University’s Project on Unity and American Democracy. The conversation delves into the role of trust in political institutions, the impact of Citizens United, the Unity Index, and steps towards achieving peace and unity in a fragmented society. Dr. Ali also shares insights from her research on peacemaking and mediation, stressing the need for community building and nonviolence. The show also provides a overview local political events and provides commentary on Tennessee’s state policies and national election results.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
The Vanderbilt University Project on Unity and American Democracy: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/unity/
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. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/
This week Len interviews Tyler Bell from A Vision For You Recovery and Jean Myers from Public Schools Strong.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts!
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
This week Len & Michele review the news, highlight the damage Trump policies are doing to Tennessee, review the No Kings rallys in Nashville and Gallatin and host a discussion of the school dress code policy in Sumner County. Candidate for School Board Holly Cruz and Portland mom Kristi Cornett join.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts!
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
Community Matters: Local Politics, Voting Rights, Funding Local Elections, and Banning Books in Our Library.
Host Len Assante kicks off with the issues of voting rights and local governance with guests Hunter Wheeler and Megan Lange. Hunter, the Sixth District Chair for the Tennessee Democratic County Chairs Association, emphasizes the importance of building networks across county parties to ensure effective governance. Megan Lange, chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party, provides a detailed update on the issue of convenience voting in Sumner County. She criticizes the County Commission for delaying the budget approval necessary for implementing this system, effectively resulting in intentional voter suppression. The conversation also touches on broader implications of gerrymandering and its impact on representative democracy. Both guests stress the importance of community engagement and active participation in local politics to combat these challenges. The episode concludes with a lively discussion on local library controversies, notably current Sumner County Library Board Chairwoman, Joanna Daniels’, problematic actions on the library board, and the legalities surrounding recent meetings. Megan encourages listeners to focus on broader pressing issues like the election commission and volunteer fire departments. Listeners are reminded of upcoming events, including the No Kings Rally and the importance of showing up at the next County Commission meeting to defend our libraries and our right to vote. The show closes with a glimpse of the guest’s favorite movies.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts!
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E35
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante interviews the Hendersonville Fire Chief and provides details on the impact of Washington’s policies on Sumner County residents, updates on the proposed controversial Library polices restricting access to materials on our public libraries and, highlighting the importance of diversity in government.
The show begins with the announcement of the special election results for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, where Republican Matt Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn emerged as primary winners. The discussion then shifts to local issues, including contentious policies from the Sumner County Library Trustee Board and the ongoing struggles of families affected by new federal SNAP regulations.
In this week’s interview, Len has an in-depth discussion with Chief Scotty Bush of the Hendersonville Fire Department, exploring topics such as the challenges faced by firefighters, their crucial role in the community, and the recent salary disparities between firefighters and police officers. The show concludes with a discussion on the future of fire services in Sumner County and Chief Bush’s personal reflections on his tenure and future plans.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts!
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E34
TNDP Vice Chair Dr. Nathan Higdon
In this week’s episode of The Loyal Opposition, Len offers news commentary and then dives into an interview with Dr. Nathan Higdon, Vice Chair of the TN Democratic Party. We disuss the current political climate in TN, the importance of the upcoming special election in TN 07 and talk about what it takes to run for office.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
TN Democratic Party: www.tndp.org
Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA, https://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E33
Understanding Rights With Amanda J. Gentry, Recent Legislation, and Community
Events
In this week’s episode of The Loyal Opposition, Len and Michele discuss the impact of recent federal funding cuts on Tennesseans, such as slashes to solar power programs, SNAP, and childcare funding. Lawyer Amanda J. Gentry joins the conversation, highlighting the importance of knowing one’s rights and providing resources like “The Handy Law Answer Book” by David Hudson. The episode concludes with a mention of the newly established Charlie Kirk Day in Sumner County. The show also announces the upcoming NAACP annual Freedom Fund dinner, sponsored by the Loyal Opposition.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Sumner County NAACP https://naacpsumnercounty.org/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com
Artemis CPA, https://artemis.cpa/
The Loyal Opposition S03 E32
The Loyal Opposition: Interview with Jerry Green, Democratic Candidate For Governor,
Update on the Local Impact of Trump’s Policies (Hint: It Ain’t Good).
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante covers the issues impacting Sumner County residents. The show features a conversation with Jerri Green, Democratic candidate for Governor of Tennessee. Len and Jerri discuss her motivations for running, her background in local government, and her views on key issues such as healthcare, public education, and the National Guard deployment to Memphis. Green emphasizes the need for a governor who will prioritize the well-being of Tennesseans through sensible policies and practical governance.
Announcements include events hosted by the Conversation Coalition, the Sumner
County Democratic Party's annual fundraiser, and the NAACP Sumner County branch’s
Annual Freedom Fund Dinner. The show also covers significant news stories, including federal funding cuts for Meharry Medical College, impacts of Trump administration cuts on health insurance premiums in Tennessee, and the controversial deployment of the National Guard to Memphis. Also discussed are the struggles faced by Tennessee soybean farmers due to tariffs and inflation.
SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found on:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify Podcasts
iHeart Podcasts
Amazon Podcasts
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our
show.
https://www.theloyalopposition.online/
Jerri Green For Governor
Sumner County Democratic Party
Info and Three Star Dinner tickets
Sumner County NAACP
Info and Annual Freedom Fund Banquet tickets
https://naacpsumnercounty.org/
Please support our advertisers and sponsors:
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry
Artemis CPA
Uniting Through Conversation: The Work of the Conversation Coalition Nashville and the Importance of Getting Out of Your Echo Chamber Plus News and Events
In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante starts the show with some important information on the huge impact to Tennesseans from Trump’s Big Bad Bill. Len then welcomes the Conversation Coalition, represented by Elliot and Gary. The Conversation Coalition is an initiative aimed at fostering genuine dialogue between diverse perspectives, particularly between believers and non-believers. Elliot and Gary discuss the importance of understanding and respectful conversation in a polarized world, sharing their experiences of bridging gaps through monthly events where challenging topics are discussed in a moderated but open format. Upcoming events include a discussion on 'Death and Suffering' and a debate titled 'Who are the True Christians?' The episode also touches upon the importance of breaking out of echo chambers, the misconceptions people hold about those with differing views, and the personal satisfaction derived from engaging in deep, meaningful conversations.
Listeners are encouraged to attend these events, explore different viewpoints, and strive for greater empathy and understanding.
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.
We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show.
Conversation Coalition Nashville
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conconashville/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theconversationcoalition/
Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry
Artemis CPA
On this week’s show, Len interviews Lawrence Hill, the parent of an autistic person. We review what autism is and how, sadly, sometimes care suffers from the politicization of healthcare and other issues.
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
Artemis CPA






