Trashercize and Education: Innovative Approaches to Litter Cleanup in Tennessee
In this episode of “Do Beautiful Things,” host Jenny Lawson, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful, dives into the heart of grassroots efforts spearheaded by communities committed to making their surroundings clean and inviting. Highlighting the power of community engagement, Jenny is joined by Missy Marshall, Executive Director of Keep Tennessee Beautiful, a Keep America Beautiful state affiliate. Together, they discuss the impactful work happening across Tennessee and the importance of inspiring the next generation of environmental champions.
Missy shines a light on initiatives like Trashercise—a creative fusion of fitness and litter cleanup—demonstrating how simple, everyday actions can foster significant change. The conversation touches on the resilience of Tennesseans, especially during challenging weather seasons that exacerbate litter issues. Missy shares her inspiring journey from a devoted volunteer to a recognized leader, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and community support in environmental stewardship.
We’re also celebrating Tennessee’s commitment to the Greatest American Cleanup™️, part of Keep America Beautiful’s nation-wide initiative to collect 25 billion pieces of litter and beautify 25,000 communities by July 4, 2026, in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Discover how you can be part of this movement and contribute to creating cleaner, greener neighborhoods.
Tune in to be inspired by these stories of resilience and community action. Learn how Tennesseans are paving the way for a more sustainable future and find out how you too can participate in creating a beautiful impact in your community.
For more information and to take the pledge, visit kab.org. Join us on this journey to ensure our world remains a vibrant, beautiful place for generations to come.
Quotes:
“Leaders should be creating and developing future leaders. It is the youth that are coming and educating parents and grandparents on the importance of recycling and composting.”
“In our state, tourism is our second largest industry. And I believe the leaders understand people do not want to come to a dirtied and littered state and vacation. So, it (litter cleanup) is a high priority here, and I’m grateful for that.”
– Missy Marshall, Executive Director, Keep Tennessee Beautiful
Show Notes:
- 00:00 Unifying Tennessee Through Environmental Stewardship
- 04:33 Tennessee River Flood Debris Impact
- 07:29 History of Keep Tennessee Beautiful
- 11:43 Inspiring Future Leaders Through Education
- 14:50 Youth Innovation in Environmental Action
- 18:10 “Keep Tennessee Beautiful Campaign Launch”
- 22:24 “Leadership Through Active Participation”
- 25:07 Celebrating to Change Behavior
- 28:33 “Do Beautiful Things: Inspired Action”
Show Links:
- Keep Tennessee Beautiful: keeptnbeautiful.org
- Trashercise: www.keeptnbeautiful.org/trashercise
- Keep America Beautiful: kab.org
- Greatest American Cleanup: kab.org/greatest
About Keep America Beautiful®:
Keep America Beautiful®, the nation’s leading community improvement nonprofit organization, inspires and educates people to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environment. Established in 1953, Keep America Beautiful® strives to End Littering, Improve Recycling, and Beautify America’s Communities. We believe everyone has a right to live in a clean, green, and beautiful community, and shares a responsibility to contribute to that vision. The organization is driven by the work and passion of 700 Keep America Beautiful® affiliates, millions of volunteers, and the collaborative support of corporate partners, social and civic service organizations, academia, municipalities, elected officials, and individuals. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin, and YouTube. Donate and take action at kab.org. MEDIA CONTACTS: McCall Vrydaghs Keep America Beautiful® communications@kab.org