In this special Valentine’s edition of Kickin’ It with Kincannon, Mayor Indya Kincannon welcomes a very special guest to the Mayor’s Suite, her husband of more than 30 years, First Gentleman Ben Barton.

From college at Haverford to raising two daughters in Knoxville, this episode offers a heartfelt and often hilarious look at love, partnership, and public service. The Mayor and Ben reflect on how they met, the early days of marriage, and the unexpected journey that brought them to Knoxville without knowing a single person. What began as a trailing spouse story turned into deep roots in a city they now proudly call home.

Throughout the episode, Ben speaks candidly about supporting a spouse in public life, the pride he feels watching the Mayor lead, and the balance that partnership requires behind the scenes. The Mayor reflects on gratitude, longevity, and the joy of building both a family and a community together.

Whether you are celebrating Valentine’s Day or simply appreciating the people who stand beside you, this episode is a warm and honest conversation about love, leadership, and life in Knoxville.

Tune in for a meaningful and memorable look at partnership in public service and the story behind the Mayor and the First Gentleman.

For the past decade, Knoxville has proudly embraced its identity as a Maker City. In this episode of Kickin’ It with Kincannon, Mayor Indya Kincannon sits down with Anne Templeton, Director of Maker City Initiatives, to reflect on how a grassroots movement grew into a defining part of Knoxville’s culture and economy.

They explore the history of making in Appalachia, how the Maker City movement began, and why collaboration, creativity, and community are at the heart of Knoxville’s success. Anne also shares what makers can expect at the 10th Annual Maker City Summit, including real, tactical takeaways to help creative businesses grow.

🎉 Don’t miss the Maker Soirée and the Maker City Summit. Learn more at themakercitysummit.org.

In this festive episode, Mayor Indya Kincannon sits down with Kyndra Brewer, the City’s Director of Special Events, along with a special surprise guest. Together they pull back the curtain on what it really takes to create Knoxville’s most beloved traditions: the Regal Celebration of Lights, Festival on the Fourth, New Year’s Eve at the Sunsphere, and more.

Kyndra shares behind-the-scenes stories, including quick saves, memorable mishaps, and how a “blue Christmas tree” once caused more excitement than expected. She reflects on Knoxville’s growth, the joy of creating Hallmark-movie magic downtown, and the partnerships across City departments that bring each event to life.

The surprise guest joins the fun to talk favorite Christmas songs, kids’ wish lists, hot-chocolate preferences, and why he loves visiting Knoxville. The two even discuss whether they’d try a local polar plunge and what they’d do if they were Mayor for a day.