About

Joe Elmore  —  Host

Joe Elmore has been the host of this Emmy-award winning series since its beginnings.  As the face of Tennessee Crossroads, Joe has been taking viewers to meet interesting people and explore fascinating out-of-the-way places since 1987. Joe is also a producer and co-host of Horsepower TV on Spike TV.

Joe launched his TV career at WHBQ TV in Memphis, TN, where he served as weekend anchor and reporter. Later, he was chosen to co-host the station's PM Magazine show, where he produced nationally-broadcast stories. He has also done extensive work as an independent film and video producer for clients throughout the Southeast.

Rob Wilds  —  Producer

Rob Wilds has been a part of the Tennessee Crossroads family since 1993. As one of our most frequent producers, and the recipient of several journalism awards throughout his various careers, Rob  finds that the best reward for his work is meeting the fascinating people and visiting the interesting places he encounters in his travels.

A presence in television, radio and print reporter for more than 20 years, Rob is a teacher, writer, producer and director as well as an actor (with appearances in feature films, television shows and on stage).

Tressa Bush  —  Producer

Tressa Bush has been a part of the Crossroads family since 2007. Born and raised in Smith County, Tressa continues to live there today but finds that with each new story she learns something new about Tennessee. 

A former Miss Nashville, Tressa also participated in the Miss Tennessee USA (a preliminary to the Miss USA/Miss Universe competition). 

Ken Wilshire  —  Producer

Ken Wilshire joined the Tennessee Crossroads in 2008 with a desire to tell stories about people who have found their passions in life and who would otherwise go unrecognized for their contributions to their community. 

Ken began his career at WREG-TV in Memphis, writing, producing and editing news stories, features and documentaries. After leaving Channel 3 he joined Fed Ex in their communications department as a writer/producer and was promoted to the department manager. Ken spent almost 25 years in operations management at FedEx and other Fortune 500 companies.

Al Voecks  —  Producer

Like Joe Elmore, Al Voecks has been a part of Tennessee Crossroadssince the show’s beginnings in 1987.

A 40-year veteran in broadcasting, Al Voecks came to Nashville in 1963 and worked as a television news anchor, news director and sports and weather presenter for the local NBC affiliate. He has also been associated with WSM Radio and was most recently a news commentator on WSIX FM in Nashville. Voecks' numerous awards include being named Broadcaster of the Year by the Associated Press in Tennessee.

Gretchen Bates  —  Producer

Gretchen Bates joined Tennessee Crossroads in 2007 but had her first appearance on the show in 1991 when her community, The Farm, was featured on the show. Though born and raised in Lewis County, Gretchen left Tennessee to move to New York City and pursue a career in theatre. Highlights from her time in New York City include two summers at the Chautauqua Theatre, working with the Circe du Soleil, and seeing every show on Broadway. After six years on the stage in New York City, Gretchen returned home to Tennessee.

Susan Watson  —  Producer

Susan Watson has been involved with Tennessee Crossroads, both behind and in front of the camera, since 1988. A Middle Tennessee native, Watson studied Spanish in high school and became interested in Mexican culture. She occasionally traveled to Mexico to teach English to middle-school children.

Tammi Arender  —  Producer

Born and raised on a farm in Tallulah, Louisiana, Tammi Arender first moved to Nasvhille in 1990, working for WSMV, WKRN and covering the Grand Ole Opry for TNN.  She also freelanced for for Entertainment Tonight, Lifeway Christian, and Tennessee Wildside. She is also a DJ in Christian radio for 94 FM the Fish and the Christian nationwide network, Salem Music, in Nashville. Tammi has moved back to Baton Rouge but still finds time to continue working with Tennessee Crossroads.