Podcast
101.1 The Pulse
Hosted by BG Podcast Network · EN
101.1 The Pulse is North Georgia's home where faith, country, and gospel unite. Broadcasting from WLJA-FM, we bring you the latest in music, sports, and community events across North Georgia. From high school basketball highlights to exclusive artist features and upcoming concerts, 'The Pulse' keeps you connected to the heart of your community. Stay informed, entertained, and inspired with our vibrant mix of content. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected!
13episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Saturdays with Sandra | Sandra talks with Rick Jasperse
Jul 100:13:32Tap to summarizeSandra interviews Rep. Rick Jasperse (R-Jasper) on wrapping up the Legislative Special Session and when lawmakers could be called back to the Gold Dome to redraw Georgia's redistricting maps.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Saturdays with Sandra | How a Gardening Queen Welcomes Spring Early
Feb 1800:05:23Tap to summarizeA Valentine’s Day memory gone hilariously wrong sets the tone for this feel‑good episode. Sandra Parrish chats with community favorite Colleen, who shares both her sweetest and funniest Valentine moments before diving into practical winter gardening tips. From starting seedlings on a sunny windowsill to pruning trees, prepping outdoor beds, and planning cold‑weather and warm‑weather crops, Colleen explains how to get a head start on spring planting — even without a greenhouse. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:36 Valentine’s Day Memories and Stories01:20 Starting Seedlings Indoors02:00 Cold‑Weather and Warm‑Weather Crops02:34 Pruning Trees and Outdoor Prep03:10 Gardening Help and Local Resources04:20 What Colleen Is Growing NextSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Saturday with Sandra | Ice, Fire, and Thousands of Hungry Fans
Feb 1800:04:24Tap to summarizeDowntown Blue Ridge is about to turn electric. Sandra Parrish talks with Troy Shirbroun of the Blue Ridge Business Association about the 15th annual Fire & Ice Chili and Craft Beer Festival — the biggest one yet. From a record 24 chili competitors to 36 ice sculptures, live carving demos, craft beer, live music, and Valentine’s Day fun, Troy shares why this hometown celebration draws thousands every year. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off & Craft Beer Festival Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:32 What Makes Fire & Ice Special01:15 Chili Competition and Tasting Details01:58 Ice Sculptures and Live Carvings02:23 Craft Beer, Music, and Vendors03:40 Valentine’s Day Activities04:20 Event Schedule and Final DetailsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Saturdays with Sandra | Can the DREAM Scholarship Fix College Dropouts?
Feb 1800:07:33Tap to summarizeA new scholarship could quietly change thousands of Georgia students’ futures. Sandra Parrish talks with former Governor and current University System Chancellor Sonny Perdue about the DREAM Scholarship, a needs‑based program designed to keep students from dropping out due to financial strain. Perdue explains how even a few hundred dollars can determine whether a student earns a degree — and why Georgia is finally addressing the gap left by HOPE. They also break down the program’s expansion, eligibility, funding challenges, and why work‑study requirements ensure students stay invested. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:38 What the DREAM Scholarship Is02:15 Why Students Drop Out Over Small Costs03:40 Funding, Expansion, and Legislative Hurdles04:35 Eligibility, FAFSA, and Work Requirements05:55 Grant Amounts and Institutional Decisions06:50 Closing Thoughts and Final RemarksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Saturdays with Sandra | Inside the Capitol Chaos: Greg Bluestein Breaks It Down
Feb 1800:07:02Tap to summarizeShocking twists are reshaping Georgia politics in real time. Sandra Parrish sits down with AJC political reporter Greg Bluestein to break down the dueling tax plans at the Capitol, the growing divide between House and Senate leaders, and how the 2026 and 2027 elections could determine Georgia’s long-term fiscal future. Greg also unpacks Rick Jackson’s surprise entrance into the governor’s race, why it caught even insiders off guard, and how it could upend the Republican field. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Greg's X Account Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:42 Dueling Income and Property Tax Plans02:25 Governor Kemp’s Measured Tax Approach03:40 How the 2026–2027 Elections Shape Policy04:49 Rick Jackson’s Surprise Entry06:10 Impact on the Republican Field07:20 Final Thoughts and Session PreviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Small Town Soapbox | Speeding: The Silent Killer on Georgia Roads
Feb 1700:03:10Tap to summarizeSpeeding is an epidemic, and it’s costing lives every single day. In today's Small Town Soapbox, Darien dives into the shocking statistics of traffic fatalities in Georgia and the overlooked dangers of speeding. From rural roads to major highways, Darien shares his no-nonsense take on how small towns can tackle this issue, honor law enforcement, and save lives. It’s a heartfelt, unfiltered look at a problem that hits close to home. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Small Town Soapbox | Why Bad News Sells: A Media Reflection
Feb 1000:02:11Tap to summarizeWhy does bad news grab our attention more than good? In this 'Small Town Soapbox,' Darien reflects on the media’s obsession with negativity and how it shapes our mood. Sharing personal anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Darien challenges us to focus on the small acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. From a kid holding a door to a stranger helping on the roadside, this is a call to celebrate the good in our everyday lives. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Saturdays with Sandra | No More Property Taxes? Georgia’s Bold Plan
Feb 1000:31:44Tap to summarizeCould Georgia really eliminate property taxes? In this episode of 'Saturdays with Sandra,' Sandra Parrish sits down with Representative Rick Jasperse to discuss a groundbreaking bill that could revolutionize homeownership in Georgia. They explore the challenges, potential solutions, and the impact on cities, counties, and schools. Plus, hear from KSU’s Cale McDaniel on his journey from Pickens County to leading KSU’s track and field program, and get a sneak peek at the Valentine’s Day play 'Love Letters' at the Blue Ridge Community Theater. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Banter01:15 Representative Rick Jaspers on Eliminating Property Taxes04:47 Challenges and Solutions for Cities and Schools07:13 Transitioning to a Consumption Tax10:31 Cale McDaniel’s Journey from Pickens to KSU14:00 KSU’s Track and Field Success18:43 Valentine’s Day Play 'Love Letters' Preview23:25 Planning Your Next Vacation with ColleenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Saturdays with Sandra | Big Decisions, Big Wins: Georgia Politics Meets Local Triumphs
Feb 500:22:46Tap to summarizeFrom the Gold Dome to home plate, this episode covers what’s shaping North Georgia right now. As Georgia’s legislative session heats up, AJC’s Greg Bluestein breaks down the governor’s agenda, data center debates, and campaign clashes already unfolding. Plus, celebrate local wins and culture with Georgia Highlands baseball’s championship momentum, a behind‑the‑scenes look at Oklahoma! at Blue Ridge Community Theatre, and must‑try restaurant picks from the Community Queen. It’s politics, sports, arts, and local flavor—all in one packed edition of Saturdays with Sandra. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Week’s Overview02:05 Legislative Session Update with Greg Bluestein09:40 Governor’s Agenda and Data Center Debate16:55 Campaign Politics and Election Landscape23:40 Georgia Highlands Baseball Season Preview31:20 Oklahoma! at Blue Ridge Community Theatre41:05 Sunny D Youth Theatre Program53:10 Community Queen’s Favorite North Georgia RestaurantsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transcribe →Saturdays with Sandra | When Winter Turns Dangerous: Inside North Georgia’s Storm Readiness
Feb 500:33:06Tap to summarizeIce storms don’t just change the forecast—they change everything. In this winter weather special of Saturdays with Sandra, experts from emergency management, GDOT, and Georgia EMC break down what North Georgians need to know before snow and ice hit. From long-term power outages and unsafe roads to shelter plans and generator safety, Sandra Parrish brings essential, real-world guidance straight from those on the front lines. Plus, insights on road conditions, power restoration, and how to protect your family when staying home is the safest option. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Winter Weather Overview03:12 Emergency Management and Storm Preparedness09:45 Power Outages, Shelters, and Generator Safety16:30 Ice, Road Conditions, and GDOT Warnings24:10 Utility Crews, EMC Preparation, and Restoration33:20 Community Tips, Safety Reminders, and Staying HomeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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