The saying goes that there’s “no such thing as a dumb question.” In fact, we’ve seen WPLN listeners send in hundreds of excellent questions to Curious Nashville.
Since the launch of the interactive project in early 2016, you’ve wondered about old and decrepit buildings, easily overlooked works of art and unexplained wooden signs — both out in the woods and on a dead-end street. You’ve asked for explanations about gas prices and voting rights. And you’ve requested a generous helping of local history stories.
We’re grateful! Listeners have asked more than 1,000 questions.
Those have guided our newsroom coverage of important topics like elections and unemployment benefits, and we’ve directly answered close to 200 inquiries. Your observations are also humbling reminders of how much there is to learn and — we think — evidence that curiosity can strengthen a community.
So, what’s to come? Our news desk is preparing to answer more questions this year, and we’ll regularly share what we’re finding in appearances on This Is Nashville, as well as in our podcast feed. We’re also always accepting new questions — right here.
And to get your question juices flowing, we’ll take you for a quick spin through some of the highlights.
First up: Civics explainers.
- Why do gas prices vary so much across town?
- Why a rural town desperately wants better internet
- Why members of Metro Council get lifetime health care benefits
Another popular pocket has been questions about local history and place naming.
- D.B. Todd’s legacy is more than a street name
- The history of Metro’s ‘satellite’ cities reveals questions about growth and race
- How Nashville’s oldest Black-owned bank is balancing its legacy and new ambitions
Last, but not least: the memorable oddities.
- The complicated past of a tuberculosis hospital
- How a handmade sign had us searching for a Tennessee cult
- What’s inside the governor’s old fallout shelter in the woods?
If these headlines aren’t enticing enough, then it’s time for you to send your own question. Catch our eye and we’ll get a reporter on the case.
On Air - 90.3 WPLN-FM