When you meet Tressa Bush, you don’t just meet a journalist—you meet someone who sees value in every story, every landmark, and every voice. A native of Chestnut Mound, Tennessee, Tressa has spent her career elevating the narratives of small towns and forgotten places, bringing them to life through her work in television and historical preservation. As a longtime correspondent for Tennessee Crossroads and the founder of the Smith County Historical Tourism Society (SCHTS), Tressa has built a career around community, connection, and storytelling.
We sat down with Tressa to learn more about her journey and what it takes to lead with both heart and heritage.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I’ve always loved telling stories – whether it was speaking at 4-H competitions or local pageants, I just felt at home in front of an audience. Communicating came naturally, even as a kid.
I was always the one students pointed to when it came time to speak before the student body.
My first TV job was at WBBJ-TV 7 in Jackson, Tennessee. From there, I worked at stations across the Southeast – WCBI-TV 4 in Mississippi and WCYB-TV5 in Virginia – but my heart was always back in Middle Tennessee. When I got the chance to join Tennessee Crossroads, it felt like coming home. I produced over 50 features, and a few are among the most-watched on their YouTube channel. That means a lot to me because it shows those stories resonated.
Starting the Smith County Historical Tourism Society was the next step. I wanted to bring history off the screen and into people’s lives. I believe storytelling can build pride, curiosity, and connection – and that’s exactly what I’m trying to do here in my hometown.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
It all started with a book signing in 2010. I was covering a local event for my full-page feature stories for my hometown newspaper, the Carthage Courier. I was assigned to cover a meet-and-greet and book signing for In the Presence of Soldiers, a book about the Tennessee Maneuvers during WWII. It was interesting to me because I had never heard of them. But when I found out that over 850,000 United States Army troops trained right here in Middle Tennessee – and hardly anyone was talking about it – I knew I had to dig deeper!
Before the event, the publisher and I decided we needed to run a simple notice in the Carthage Courier asking for memories, and the response blew me away. Families brought in photos, letters, and one resident brought in a red armband worn by one of the soldiers! People shared how tanks rolled through their farms and soldiers camped in their fields. It hit me then – this history wasn’t lost, it just needed someone to listen.
I realized I didn’t just want to tell stories – I wanted to preserve them. That’s what sparked the idea for the Smith County Historical Tourism Society. We’re not just honoring the past – we’re making sure people feel it, remember it, and learn from it.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
One of the hardest things was getting folks – especially in small towns – to believe their stories were worth telling. A lot of people think history only happens in big cities or fancy museums, but that’s just not true. I had to show up, listen, and prove I was serious about honoring their stories. Another big challenge? Wearing all the hats – journalist, organizer, advocate – and still keeping the heart in the work. I leaned on good people who shared the vision. That made all the difference.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
Starting the Smith County Historical Tourism Society was personal for me. I didn’t want history to just sit in a book – I wanted people to feel it. We’re not just preserving buildings; we’re creating moments. Kids can step into the shoes of their great-grandparents, and families can learn together about the realities of wartime life. From stories around the dinner table to old uniforms and letters, it’s all about connection. That’s the impact I’m proud of bringing our past to life so we can better appreciate those who came before us.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Start local, build relationships, and always be prepared. Some of the best stories I’ve ever told came from the most unexpected places – so keep an open mind.
If you’re leaning toward historical tourism, let your passion lead. People respond to authenticity, so don’t be afraid to share your own voice and perspective.
And here’s something personal: I was the first girl in Smith County to play Little League Baseball with the boys. It was a small act of courage that taught me a big lesson – sometimes you have to break the mold to make a difference. If you believe in something, chase it. Tell the story. Take the risk.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
One project that really stands out for me is Tennessee Maneuvers Remembered, which we’re bringing to life on May 3, 2025. It’s more than just a history event—it’s personal. My grandparents lived through those training years, and hearing stories from veterans and their families made me realize how much this shaped our towns. People shared memories of tanks rolling down country roads and soldiers camping in their fields. Some even donated old uniforms, letters, and photos. When visitors leave, I want them to feel what I felt – pride, gratitude, and a stronger connection to who we are as a community.
While Tennessee Maneuvers Remembered is an annual event, Tressa is working on a way for folks to relive Middle Tennessee’s military history any day of the year. She’s nearing completion of an 8-Stop Self-guided Driving Tour of maneuvers’ locations in Smith County. There will be a 2’ x 3’ Way Side Sign at each stop. The signs include a story, photos, and QR codes will link the visitor to a website page where they can learn more.
Final Thoughts
As a writer who grew up in a small town myself, Tressa’s story hit home. She’s proof that you don’t need a big stage to make a lasting impact—just a deep love for your community and the courage to tell its story. By honoring heritage, connecting communities, and giving voice to the past, she’s created a future that values storytelling as a form of leadership. Whether she’s behind a camera or organizing a county-wide tour, her impact is felt in every corner of Tennessee.
And for entrepreneurs looking for inspiration? Tressa proves that with passion, purpose, and persistence, even the smallest town can make the biggest impression.
