New Orleans Podcasting - Listen to the voices that are rebuilding New Orleans. Click on the link below to hear the latest int

Julia Bland is Executive Director of the Louisiana Children's Museum. Julia, a native of Tennessee, graduated from Newcomb College, began with the Museum as a volunteer, and has never left. When asked how Hurricane Katrina affected the Museum, Julia said, "Our Museum has rethought our purpose...we have reached out in a much more meaningful way...." One very important program Julia describes is Play Power, a program that helps kids heal through play.

Ned Sublette is the author of The World That Made New Orleans. Ned take us on a tour of his book that explores many of the outside influences that have helped make New Orleans culture what it is today. Ned focuses a great deal on the Cuban and Haitian connections. "The embargo of Cuba was an embargo of New Orleans", Ned says. He also touches on the French and Spanish influences on the Crescent City and shares some interesting facts and insights about the Mardi Gras Indians.

Jonah Dowling is Chairman of the Louisiana Landmark Society's New Orleans Nine Committee. "The New Orleans Nine is a list of nine buildings endangered of being demolished", Jonah explains. The purpose of the New Orleans Nine is to make the public aware of these properties and to assist the owners in any way to save the buildings. Jonah specifically talks about the old Dixie Brewery and the Deutsches-Haus, both in imminent danger of being demolished.

Chef Brian Landry is head chef at world famous Galatoire's Restaurant. Chef Brian tells us about his first place finish in the preliminary Great American Seafood Cookoff competition. He describes Galatoire's Shrimp Remoulade, one of Galatoire's famous dishes: the recipe is105 years old. Brian also talks about why New Orleans food is so much better than other food in our country and shares his thoughts on New Orleans' recovery following Hurricane Katrina.

Jennifer Weishaupt and her husband are the owners of The Ruby Slipper Cafe in Mid-City New Orleans. Jennifer, originally from New York, explains why she has made New Orleans home and how she came to open this neighborhood cafe. Despite the challenges Hurricane Katrina presented, Jennifer and her husband chose to stay in New Orleans and start this new business. In addition to being a restaurant owner, Jennifer is also the president of the Mid-City Neighborhood Organization.

Nathan Rothstein is Executive Director of New Orleans Young Urban Rebuilding Professionals (YURP). Nathan explains how YURP helps young professionals find avenues to express their talents and move New Orleans in a progressive new direction. Kendrick Pullen, the Program Director, thanks The Brown Family Foundation for its support and talks about the many out of town colleges he plans to visit to spread the word about YURP's exciting work in New Orleans.

Dr. Morgus, also known as "Morgus the Magnificent", is New Orleans' preeminent Doctor of Science. A member of the "Higher Order", Dr. Morgus specializes in Morgusian Science. The unenlightened may call him mad, but New Orleanians recognize his true and enduring genius. In our interview "The Dr." shares his rare insights and focuses on economic issues. He suggests a revolutionary form of tax to offset the city's heavy post-Katrina debt.

Bill Borah is a land use attorney who has work tirelessly to amend the city charter regarding city planning. New Orleanians will vote on this important amendment on November 4th, 2008. Hurricane Katrina gave citizens the realization that we must have a plan as we rebuild the city. Bill explains why we need this amendment and how it will benefit the neighborhoods and citizens of New Orleans. Bill points out that this a vote is not to select a city plan, but to put the force of law behind whatever plan we develop.

Ed Blakely is the New Orleans Recovery Czar. Ed tells us that the city has recently started receiving substantial Federal funds as of November, 2007. These funds have allowed the city to dramatically expand its recovery efforts from 20 active projects to 340. Ed explains what his job description actually is and tells us how he started the recovery process when he arrived in New Orleans. He also talks about change and notes that New Orleans doesn't have to lose its unique identity to be able to compete globally.

Lori Nesser is the owner of La Peniche, a popular restaurant in the Faubourg Marigny. Lori explains the importance of neighborhood businesses in New Orleans and tells us how they help make the city unique. She also gives us the meaning of the name "La Peniche" and describes its origin.When I asked about what positive things she sees happening in the city since Hurricane Katrina, Lori is upbeat:"...I hear positive stories about reasons why people are staying as opposed to the negative stories about why people are leaving."

Elizabeth Williams is President of the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, the latest addition to New Orleans' rich museum landscape. The museum features Southern food and drink and also spotlights farmers, trappers, cooks and others who produce, deliver, and prepare our distinctive food and beverages. The museum explores how food plays an integral part in our celebrations. "I think people have come to appreciate what a special culture we have here in New Orleans.", Elizabeth says.

Kacey Hill is Public Relations Officer for The National WWII Museum, formally The D-Day Museum. Kacey explains the museum received a congressional mandate and is now the official WWII museum of the United States. "We are currently in the process of undergoing a $300 million expansion to cover other segments of the War besides D- Day...", Kacey tells us. The museum attracts visitors from all over; according to Kasey: "We have found that most of our visitors are only in the city to come see the museum...."

Jim Letten is the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Jim tells us how he first became interested in the Law. He explains what the U.S. Attorney's office does and talks about one of the responsibilities of his office: to defend the Corps of Engineers against lawsuits. Jim describes the relationship between the U.S. Attorney's office and the FBI; he notes that the transition from James Bernazzani, former FBI Special Agent in charge of New Orleans, to Bernazzani's successor will likely be seamless.

Elyse Luray is an appraiser, auctioneer, and one of PBS television's "History Detectives". Elyse explains why history is so important and why people are fascinated by the past. She talks about the historical significance of New Orleans and mentions examples of interesting local finds, including one of the first submarines used in the Civil War. During her recent visit, Elyse applauded the commitment of the people who have stayed. "I find that people who 'get it' care, and they are trying to preserve it...they are not letting the city die".

Suzanne Lapin is President of MakeNewOrleansHome.com. This organization actively promotes New Orleans as an attractive relocation destination. "It's really important, I feel, for the city to start to market itself ...as a wonderful place to move and bring your family...", Suzanne says. The organization runs video testimonials on TV in local hotels to get the word out. Suzanne, who is not a native, says New Orleans is the friendliest place she has ever lived and she wants the whole world to know how wonderful we are.

Marci Schramm is Executive Director for the French Quarter Festival, Incorporated. Marci gives us a preview of the 2008 French Quarter Festival, April 11 -13. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the celebration and Marci tells us about how the festival originated in 1984. Since it's modest beginning, the festival has grown to attract 400,000 attendees with a local economic impact of $100 million.

Ronnie Kole is a world renowned musician and philanthropist. Ronnie talks about two of his proudest music achievements: his recent "Louis Prima Arts and Entertainment Award", and his upcoming induction into the "New Orleans Musical Legends Park" on Bourbon Street where a life size statue of Ronnie will stand. Ronnie also tells us about "Jazz on the Bayou", a fundraiser benefiting Easter Seals of Louisiana. This gala will give fans a chance to meet Ronnie in his home, enjoy Louisiana dishes, and help a good cause.

Cesar Burgos is Chairman of the Board for New Orleans' Regional Transit Authority (RTA). Cesar reflects on the damages Hurricane Katrina caused to RTA and its fleet. Despite the losses RTA sustained, Cesar believes the RTA can become stronger and more effective than it was before the storm. Recent improvements include state of the art security and a new RTA management company. Cesar says, "I think the city is moving in the right direction and the days of milk and honey are just around the corner."

"Doc" Hawley is a river pilot who specializes in steam driven sternwheelers. For over 30 years, "Doc" has captained the Steamboat NATCHEZ up and down the Mississippi River past New Orleans. After decades of working on the NATCHEZ, "Doc" has accumulated an arsenal of entertaining stories about the river and the riverboat. He shares a few of these anecdotes and describes what it takes to become a riverboat pilot. An accomplished calliope player, "Doc" also tells us why no calliope has ever been in tune.

Brian Landry is Vice President of Marketing for Children's Hospital in New Orleans. Brian tells us that Children's Hospital accepts all children, regardless of their ability to pay. He describes the annual Carnival visit by members of the Krewe of Thoth to bring Mardi Gras to the young patients and tells us about Hulk Hogan's recent visit while he was in town to ride with the Krewe of Bacchus. Brian recalls the difficult months that followed Hurricane Katrina and comments on New Orleans' potential to be the "Jewel of the South".

Our guest this week is the captain of Thoth. Thoth, a Carnival Krewe, or organization, began in 1947. Ever since "Reconstruction" following the Civil War, the identity of Thoth's Captain has remained secret. The 2008 Captain describes his responsibilities and duties and clarifies some common Mardi Gras misconceptions. Thoth, also known as the "Krewe of Shut-Ins", brings Mardi Gras to hospital patients and others who are unable to attend the parade.

Dominique Rizzo is the owner of La Boulangerie, a popular French bakery located on Magazine Street in New Orleans. Since we are in the Carnival Season, Dominique describes the original French King Cake and explains how it differs from our traditional New Orleans King Cake. He recalls his first impressions of New Orleans and shares his observations of how New Orleans is unique and distinct from other American cities.

Jesyka Bartlett is the fourth generation Bartlett to work at the French Market Coffee Company. Her family co-owns this New Orleans based business along with the Dodge family. French Market Coffee Company, founded in 1890, supplies locals with one of their favorite brews. Jesyka reflects on the difficult months following hurricane Katrina and the challenges facing her company. New Orleans is famous for coffee; after listening to Jesyka, you will understand why.

Arthur Hardy, Mardi Gras expert and historian, publishes the annual Mardi Gras Guide. Arthur shares the big news for Carnival 2008: the Krewe of Endymeon's long awaited return to its pre-Katrina Mid-City route. "It sends a message that the police department, if not at full strength, is strong enough to handle the large crowds in Mid-City", Arthur says. And he notes that the pre-parade party and concert on Orleans Avenue are great fun, too. Arthur also talks about "Family Gras" in Metairie on the first weekend of Mardi Gras.

Patty Gay is Executive Director of the Preservation Resource Center. She explains how the PRC focuses on saving and promoting our neighborhoods, architecture, and culture. Patty tells us about the increase in volunteers since hurricane Katrina and how important they are to New Orleans' recovery. "The PRC offers workshops each month on various tips on rebuilding older New Orleans homes", Patty says. Patty also describes the PRC's Operation Come Back Program that restores vacant and blighted properties.

Robert Lyall is General and Artistic Director for the New Orleans Opera Association. Robert describes Hurricane Katrina's extensive damage to the opera's traditional venue, The Theatre of Performing Arts located in Armstrong Park. Despite the challenges Katrina brought, the New Orleans opera returned to the arts' scene in March, 2006 with a grand gala. The event was so successful that Robert planned a New Year's Eve celebration; he promises this event will be the perfect way for music and art lovers to welcome the new year, 2008.

David Rubenstein is the owner of Rubensteins, one of New Orleans premiere clothing stores. David describes the challenges his store faced following Hurricane Katrina and why he decided to reopen. Founded by David's father and uncle in 1924, Rubensteins continues to be a leader in business and fashion. Recently, the store was honored with awards from Esquire Magazine, Harper's Bazaar, and the fashion trade publication, The Daily News Record.

Bonnie Goldblum is Executive Director of Longue Vue House & Gardens. Philanthropists Edgar Bloom Stern, a New Orleans cotton broker, and his wife, Edith Rosenwald Stern, an heiress to the Sears-Roebuck fortune, built the estate. The house was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2005. Bonnie recalls the damage Hurricane Katrina caused and points out how lucky Longue Vue was to have so many volunteers to help rebuild this beautiful landmark.

Beau Bassich is Executive Director of the City Park Improvement Association in New Orleans. Beau talks about the recent reopening of the park's historic carousel, extensively refurbished following Hurricane Katrina. He also talks about the annual Celebration in the Oaks, a magical walking tour through the botanical gardens laced with beautiful holiday decorations. Beau tells us that "He sees a definite up turn in what is happening in the city."

Lenny Vangilder is Director of Publicity for the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots. Lenny reflects on the damages caused by Hurricane Katrina and the Fair Grounds' efforts to recover. New Orleans Fair Grounds is one of the oldest racetracks in America. As Lenny points out, the opening of the track on Thanksgiving Day is one of those New Orleans traditions not to be missed. This year, 7,300 fans attended, "...which is about the norm," Lenny says.

James Bernazzani is the FBI special agent in charge of New Orleans. We met in Audubon Park, near his uptown home, to talk about how the FBI has taken on non-traditional roles since Katrina. These roles are in addition to its primary focus of stopping terrorist threats in Louisiana. James is especially interested in routing out public corruption in the New Orleans area. He says, "Corruption doesn't steal from the person who is directly affected, it steals from everyone."

Marc Robért II, owner of Robért Fresh Market, explains his commitment to Lakeview and New Orleans: "This is a very strong area...and I am confident this area will come back". Marc's wife, Darlene, gave me a tour of the new market. She proudly pointed out each section, from greeting cards to lobsters. Whether you live in Lakeview or not, the grand re-opening of a major grocery in New Orleans is a big plus and a great morale booster.

Sandy Whann, owner of Leidenheimer Bakery, is the great grandson of its founder, George Leidenheimer. Sandy tells us about the challenges his company faced re-opening following Hurricane Katrina and how he drove his employees roundtrip from Baton Rouge to New Orleans everyday. He tells us about New Orleans French Bread and shares his theory of how it evolved from the heavy, dense German bread his great grandfather first made, into the light airy bread we know today. The "Magna Carta" of the Poor-Boy is also one of his topics.

Mardi Gras World owner Blain Kern--"Mr. Mardi Gras"--talks about his Haunted House and special Halloween Night Gala. Blain is donating 50 percent of the event proceeds to local first responders and he invites everyone to come join the celebration. The Halloween Gala will feature celebrities including John Goodman, Allen Toussaint, Deacon John, and real African warriors. Visit Blain Kern's Haunted Fun House. for discounted Haunted House tickets and to learn more about the Halloween Gala.

David Kahn is the Director of the Louisiana State Museum in New Orleans. David talks about "GOLD", the exciting new exhibit that opened October 20 and runs through January 2, 2008. "The exhibit was developed by the American Museum of National History in New York City", David tells us, "...the exhibit covers all aspects of gold". David also shares the good news that visitation for the Cabildo, Louisiana State Museum's flag ship attraction, has reached 98 percent of its pre-Katrina levels.

Kenneth Ferdinand describes the Market’s newly completed renovation and updates us on those currently in progress. Kenneth emphasizes the importance of camaraderie in New Orleans today: “We know how to express our humanity”, he observes, “that’s why New Orleans will never go away.” He tells the story of French Market’s origin and notes that more locals are returning to the Market and its future is bright.

Linda Gonzales is Assistant Executive Director of the New Orleans Mission. Linda describes the damages the Mission sustained following Hurricane Katrina and she explains the Mission's services. In addition to giving the homeless a place to stay, the Mission helps people find work; its new challenges are due to the different type of homeless in New Orleans post-K. Linda also notes that people are more caring now and more willing to help.

Charlie Martinez is General Manager of Landry's Seafood House. The only restaurant remaining on the New Orleans lakefront since Hurricane Katrina. Landry's occupies the old site of Bart's restaurant. Charlie, a New Orleans native, describes how appreciative his customers are that Landry's re-opened. "People love to talk to you", he says. Charlie shares his memories of swimming in the lake as a kid and describes how high the water rose during Hurricane Katrina.

Norm Abram, master carpenter with This Old House, TV's popular home improvement program, will be filming ten This Old House episodes here in New Orleans. The series will tell the story of several individuals who are rebuilding their homes and their lives. Norm tells us how impressed he is with the spirit of New Orleanians and with the number of volunteers who are energetically helping to rebuild, despite their lack of knowledge about construction.

Jim describes how Katrina affected the organization's staffing and its many properties. "However, " he says, "we are bouncing back well". Jim points out that Katrina has crystallized his purpose at VOA: "We are focusing on affordable housing for working people". He talks about how the future of New Orleans is in the hands of everyday people, working hard to rebuild New Orleans.

Sandy Rosenthal is the founder and executive director for Levees.org. Sandy founded Levees.org because as a New Orleanian she felt compelled to get the word out that the levee failures were a man made disaster. According to Sandy, the good news is "the Corp of Engineers has agreed to build temporary protection that will be complete by 2009." Sandy points out that this temporary protection is crucial because permanent flood protection will not be completed until 2011.

New Orleans native Gregory Schramel, Artistic Director for the New Orleans Ballet Theatre, founded NOBT in 2002."As soon as we opened after Katrina we had more students then ever", Gregory says. The ballet school, located in the Contemporary Arts Center, has both professional and non-professional dancers. Gregory believes the key to success is quality. "We don't have to be Atlanta or Houston. If we have the best quality in what we do, people will come."

Ron Biava is the Executive Director of the New Orleans Public Library Foundation. Ron tells us they are back to about half of their pre-Katrina staff and just added their latest temporary branch on Carrollton Avenue. Ron explains how the library helps people rebuild their lives and re-build New Orleans. He gives us a run down on all the open branches and the ones under repair. In closing Ron points out that the library is interested in donated books, and tells us where to deposit them.

Sinesio Canseco is the owner of Canseco's Esplanade Market . Sinesio opened his Esplanade location on August 2, 2007, much to the delight of residents in the Faubourg St. John neighborhood. Sinesio tells us about his family's grocery business and his roots in Cuba. We talk about the importance of neighborhoods in New Orleans and how neighborhood groceries play a vital role in keeping neighborhoods thriving.

Virtually all New Orleanians know Al Johnson affectionately as "Carnival Time Al Johnson". A genuine New Orleans musical treasure, Al wrote one of Mardi Gras' most popular songs--, "Carnival Time"-- in 1959 when he was17 years old. His latest song, "Lower Ninth Ward Blues", has been called the Katrina Anthem. In this moving work, Al expresses his uncertainties about life after Katrina. By so doing he helps all of us to heal by recognizing we are not alone.

Alexis Jacknow is a member of the NOLA Project, a nonprofit theatrical company in New Orleans. She recently directed Wind in the Willows, based on Kenneth Grahame's children's classic. The play is currently running at New Orleans Reparatory Theatre. Alexis shares her love for New Orleans and her interest in keeping theatre alive in our city. We are also privileged to have a rare interview with Wind in the Willows' own Mr. Rat!

Cindy Mandina is the co-owner of Mandina's Restaurant in Mid-City New Orleans. Mandina's defines the essence of traditional New Orleans neighborhood cooking. Cindy tell us about the damage that resulted from Hurricane Katrina and why it took so long for the restaurant to reopen.She tells us what the original business started out to be and when it became a restaurant. Cindy also shares her thoughts on the New Orleans recovery.

Randy Feldman is President and General Manager of WYES, one of two Public Broadcasting television stations in New Orleans. Randy describes the Herculean effort involved to get the station--a favorite of New Orleanians since 1957-- back on the air. He enthusiastically shares his thoughts on the recent Art Collection Twelve Auction and expresses his gratitude to the donors, volunteers, and staff who made it such a success.

John Blancher is the owner of Rock'n' Bowl in New Orleans Mid-City. In operation since 1988, Rock'n' Bowl has become a New Orleans icon, to the delight of both young and old. John recounts how he has seen boys and girls meet on his lanes, get married, and return years later with children of their own. John re-opened on November 10, 2005, less then three months after Hurricane Katrina. He has been an inspiration to New Orleanians and is an example of the power of optimism in the New Orleans business community.

Johnny Blancher is co-owner of Ye Olde College Inn. When locals think of their favorite neighborhood New Orleans restaurants, College Inn is high on the list. Locals were thrilled when the restaurant re-opened following Hurricane Katrina. Johnny tells us about the restaurant's origin in 1933 and the recent demolition of the old restaurant building. The "new" building, home of the first A&P grocery store in New Orleans, is actually older than the building that was demolished.

Teddy Pierre is a masonry craftsman. He describes his work restoring old tombs and explains the importance of using proper materials. Teddy is vice president of the New Orleans Craft Guild and he introduces us to guild president, Jeff Treffinger. Jeff tells us about the guild's vision to create a school to train youngsters in the lost arts of craftsmanship. He talks about the current Priestly School project where ten lucky students will learn craftsmanship skills from local master craftsmen.