Inside Matthews is the podcast about all of the wonderful people, places and organizations that make Matthews, Matthews. Periodically, Former Mayor Jim Taylor sits down with civic, business and political leaders to have a conversation about what’s happening, Inside Matthews.

Hazen Blodgett served as the Manager of the Town of Matthews for 18 years and retired from this position in early 2022. During Hazen’s tenure, he worked under four mayors, including Lee Myers, Jim Taylor, Paul Bailey and, current mayor, John Higdon. From the Town of Matthews website, "Hazen has been an extraordinary Manager over the last 18 years," said Mayor Higdon. "His impact on Matthews truly cannot be measured. On behalf of the entire Board, we want to express our thanks and appreciation for his tireless work, thoughtful leadership, and dedication to Matthews. Indeed, his are big shoes to fill."

During his tenure, Hazen witnessed the population of Matthews climb from approximately 22,000 in 2004 to currently of 33,000. It’s quite unique for a Town Manager to continue in their role for more than an average of 5 years and in his 18, he led the town through the “Great Recession” of 2008 then through an unprecedented global pandemic.

For the second consecutive year, Inside Matthews was selected by the readers of the Matthews – Mint Hill Weekly as their favorite podcast.

Jim Taylor served four terms as the seventeenth Mayor of the Town of Matthews and sat on the Board of Commissioners for ten years. During his time leading Matthews, Jim was also appointed Mayor Pro-Tem by his colleagues and spent time on numerous advisory boards and committees including Matthews Volunteer Fire Department, Matthews HELP Center, chaired the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO), Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC), Matthews Alive! and several others.

Please continue to listen, like and subscribe to Inside Matthews wherever you hear podcasts. Follow the award-winning Inside Matthews podcast on social media. Connect with Jim on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Do you have a story to tell about growing up in Matthews? Do you have an idea for an episode of Inside Matthews? Jim would love to hear and maybe share it. Please click here to offer your thoughts and ideas.