Behind the Story: Memories of Minnie Pearl with Steve Turner

As a journalist, I’ve conducted hundreds of interviews with people from all walks of life: a tarot card reader in a college town, a Republican party chairman in the Midwest who refuses to fly, and a small town tour guide with a fascination in Greek mythology and ancient architecture.

I’m very privileged to have an occupation that not only allows me the opportunity to expand my worldview, but also encourages me to explore how different people’s values manifest themselves in the homes they build, the jobs they do, the groups they belong to, and the ways they interact with others—especially me, an outsider with more questions than answers and a member of the media, which is always one of the least trustworthy institutions.

This month, I sat down with Steve and Wanda Turner whom I’m coining as the “hosts of Hickman County.” As I mentioned earlier, I’ve interviewed a lot of people in my nearly 30 years on earth, but never have I had an interview end in an exchange of peach cobbler for an azalea until this one.

Wanda told me, “it’s just how we do things around here.”

After spending the better part of an afternoon with Wanda and her husband, Steve, I can tell you that her quote just about sums up the couple’s life mission and legacy—to expose everyone they come into contact with to everything good in life including a connection with nature, a caring and kindly teacher, and the gift of hearing song performed passionately.
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I’m so excited to be able to share a sneak peek of their story with you today (the next issue doesn’t release until May 1st!).
In the following audio clip, you’ll hear about Steve’s many run-ins with the beloved Minnie Pearl. You’ll discover how Steve’s uncle discovered Minnie even though he had no ties to the music industry; he was vice president of a local branch of a national bank.