Soul Sessions Jackson

On today's show, we're sitting down with Jackson author Gerry Wilson, who published her first novel at the age of 82. She shares how her life in Mississippi Her years as a teacher and her lifelong love of writing all came together to shape her book, "That Pinson Girl," and what it means to find your voice at any stage in life. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-gerry-wilson

On today's show, we're celebrating the roots and rhythms of Mississippi blues and its powerful connection to the Chicago Blues Festival with Visit Mississippi's Michelle McAdoo. From the local legends to their lasting legacies, Michelle will help us explore how Mississippi continues to shape—and share—the soundtrack of the south. TRANSCRIPT and SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-michelle-mcadoo

We're catching up with Austin Evans and Richard Patrick, co-founders of Cathead Distillery. With bourbon, gin, and liqueurs, plus a music festival that's just as soulful as their spirits. They're here to talk Cathead Jam, community, and the culture that keeps them rooted in Jackson. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-cathead

We're catching up with Kimberlee Cooper from the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, the organization behind Mississippi Makers Fest, a free family friendly celebration of local art, music and food. From pottery demos to American Idol headliners, Kimberly shares how this growing festival turns downtown Jackson into a showcase of Mississippi creativity.

On today's show, we're talking with Maureen Scott, a certified Master Gardener and member of the Metro Master Gardeners Association. From her work at Greenwood Cemetery and the Ag Museum Herb Garden to a touching award-winning project at St. Dominic's, Maureen shares how gardening can be both personal therapy and public service. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-maureen-scott

On today's show, we're talking with Ryan Parker, the executive director of the Mississippi Film Society, bringing Hollywood to Mississippi's capital city. Ryan accomplishes this through special screenings and the upcoming Stranger Than Fiction Film Festival, bringing a passion for creating shared experiences to our local movie screens.

Think great writers are all serious business? Not in Jackson, where literary legend Eudora Welty left her mark with both brilliance and playful spirit! On today's show, we're celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Eudora Welty House with Welty Education Specialist Anna Traylor, who's bringing the beloved author's vibrant legacy to new generations at this perfectly preserved piece of Jackson history. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-anna-traylor

From appetizers to entrées, Jackson's culinary scene is serving up a feast for the senses that's as rich as our Mississippi soil. On today's show, we're dishing with Amanda Fitzgerald from the local palate about the much-anticipated JXN Food & Wine festival, where over 30 chefs from across the South will bring their unique flavors to our capital city for a two-day culinary celebration. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-amanda-fitzgerald-jfw

Sometimes losing your tech job leads you straight to your calling – just ask the man who turned his weekend hobby into Jackson's hottest food truck. On today's show, we visit with Eddie Wright of Eddie Wright BBQ. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-eddie-wright

From Beatles inspired dishes to family style feasts, Chef Enrika Williams proves that nostalgia can be deliciously innovative. From nerding out about Apple varieties with Chef Hunter Evans at Elvie's to watching him shine at the James Beard House in New York recently, Enrika shares what makes Jackson's collaborative food scene so special. Plus she gives us a glimpse of what's cooking for the upcoming Jackson Food and Wine Festival and reveals the food trends she sees emerging in 2025. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-enrika-williams

On today's show, restaurateur Chaz Lindsay takes us inside his newest venture, Rowan's - a neighborhood pub that's 'family-friendly by day, a little loose at night.' From fried bologna sandwiches to weenie martinis, we'll explore how this former donut shop is being transformed into Belhaven's newest gathering spot, plus get the scoop on what's cooking at the upcoming Jackson Food and Wine Festival. TRANSCRIPT and SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-chaz-lindsay

Think coffee is just a quick caffeine fix? Think again—it's an art, a science, and a connection to the world around us. We're diving in with Trey Malone—coffee aficionado and CEO at Northshore Specialty Roasters—about how a great cup of coffee isn't just about the brew, but about creating spaces that connect us all. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-trey-malone

In this episode of Soul Sessions, we celebrate Mississippi's cultural spotlight at the Tournament of Roses Parade. Dr. Roderick Little, Director of the Sonic Boom of the South, discusses the band's preparation and significance in representing Jackson and HBCUs. Katie Coats from Visit Mississippi shares insights on their first-ever float honoring musical legends Elvis Presley and B.B. King, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Mississippi's rich musical heritage to a global audience. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-roderick-little-katie-coats

In this episode of Soul Sessions, host Paul Wolf talks with guest curator Sharbreon Plummer to explore the Mississippi Museum of Art's exhibition 'Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South.' The conversation delves into the selection process of quilts, the personal stories behind them, and the cultural significance of quilting as a form of artistic expression and community bonding. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-sharbreon-plummer

In this episode of Soul Sessions, host Paul Wolf speaks with Lynsie Armstrong, the event coordinator for Capital City Lights, a holiday event in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. They discuss the event's evolution, community engagement, and the various activities planned for families and attendees. The conversation highlights the importance of creating an intimate and festive atmosphere while showcasing local vendors and food options. The event aims to bring the community together in celebration. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-lynsie-armstrong

In this episode, Kamel King, the director of cultural tourism for Visit Mississippi, discusses the state's cultural trails program, which includes the Mississippi Blues Trail, Country Music Trail, Freedom Trail, and Writers Trail. King shares insights on the impact of these trails, memorable unveilings of markers, and the importance of recognizing local legends. Transcript: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-kamel-king

On today's show, we talk Mistletoe Marketplace, organized annually by the Junior League of Jackson. Douglas Strahan Loftin and Carter Whitehood share insights about the event's history, its impact on the community, and the various activities and vendors that make it a cherished holiday tradition. Transcript: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-mistletoe

In this episode, meet Sophie McNeil Wolf, the Director of Communications and Insights for the Community Foundation for Mississippi. We discuss Sophie's journey in community work, the role of community foundations, and their impact on local projects in Jackson. The conversation highlights CFM's November Friendsgiving event, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and generosity in Mississippi. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-sophie-mcneil-wolf

On today's show, Belhaven residents George and Ann Elizabeth Gillespie just opened Wing Mouth at Belhaven Town Center, a simple concept that specializes in wings, tenders and fries. And after years in the restaurant business, George says they're filling a need for more fast, casual options at the town center, a spot that's brimming with activity almost every day of the week. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-george-gillespie

On today's episode, the Garden Mama, Nellie Neal talks about the upcoming Fondren Garden and Bottle Tree Tour and the importance of community in gardening, innovative practices in Jackson, and advice for aspiring gardeners. Transcript and show notes: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-nellie-neal

On today's episode, we talk to Conner Reeves about Belhaven's Bright Lights, a celebration of the artisans, musicians and creators of the Greater Belhaven neighborhood that features music, food, and local vendors.

Today, Ellen Daniels, the executive director of the Mississippi Book Festival, discusses the ten-year-old festival's history and what makes it special. The festival brings together authors and book lovers from all walks of life, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere. TRANSCRIPT AND SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-ellen-daniels-24

Today in this encore presentation, De Shannon Williams is one of the owners of Smokey's Meal on Wheels food truck, and she's an organizer of Food Truck Fridays, which have returned to Smith Park in downtown Jackson every first, third and fifth Friday.

On today's episode, artist Noah Satterstrom discusses his exhibition 'What Became of Dr. Smith' at the Mississippi Museum of Art and how his curiosity led him to uncover his great-grandfather's story. The exhibition explores themes of mental illness, family history, and the power of art to spark conversations. TRANSCRIPT, RESOURCES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-noah-saterstrom

On today's episode, Yolanda Singleton, President and CEO of Xxperience JXN, discusses her role as a promoter, community advocate, and trendsetter in bringing entertainment to Jackson, Mississippi. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-yolanda-singleton

On today's episode, the Two Mississippi Museums' Ayana Jones helps give context to Freedom Summer, where over 700 mainly white volunteers came to our state and teamed up with African Americans for a voter registration drive to boost Black voter registration and combat discrimination and intimidation. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-ayana-jones

On today's episode, Two Mississippi Museums' Executive Director Michael Morris joins us to share a look at Juneteenth. And Michael helps to tie in this holiday to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-michael-morris-juneteenth

On today's episode, Justin Nipper, the marketing and events manager at the Ag Museum, gives us a look at Pickle Fest. It's an event that's drawing record interest this year for its brine-soaked celebration of all things pickled. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-justin-nipper-pickle-fest GUIDE TO PICKLE FEST: https://www.visitjackson.com/pickle-fest/

In this episode, we're celebrating local businesses and events - Offbeat's 10-year anniversary and the upcoming 601 JXN Day celebration. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-phillip-rollins-kim-lewis

In this episode, Aseelah Rashid, the new director of the International Museum of Muslim Cultures in Jackson, Mississippi, discusses the significance of the museum being the first of its kind in America and its role in educating people about Islam and Muslim cultures. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-aseelah-rasheed

In this episode, Elvie's Chef Hunter Evans, a James Beard finalist, discusses his nomination and his plans for a classic Jackson restaurant. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-hunter-evans/

This is where you'd normally find a new episode. But, we have a bit of big news that just wasn't ready to share. So, watch this feed on Tuesday, April 23, and, we promise, it's news worth waiting for.

In this episode, Mayor Kane Ditto and Mike Williams, discuss the history of the JXN planetarium, the new design, and the challenges and triumphs of fundraising. The planetarium aims to provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors, with interactive displays and educational spaces. The conversation highlights the importance of the planetarium for education and tourism in Mississippi. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-kane-ditto-mike-williams-planetarium

In this episode, we talk to David Long, the president of the Jackson Friends of the Library who discusses the importance of promoting libraries and literacy in the city of Jackson. We also talk about the fundraising efforts and community engagement initiatives of the organization and a call to action to get involved and support the Friends of the Library. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-david-long

In this episode of Soul Sessions, Yolanda Clay-Moore interviews Walt Grayson, a veteran television and radio personality in Mississippi and Grand Marshal of this year's Hal's St. Paddy's Parade. They discuss Walt's career, his coverage of Mississippi, and his experiences at the parade. The conversation highlights the sense of community and diversity at the parade, as well as the significance of the event for Jackson. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-walt-grayson

In this episode of Soul Sessions, we've put together an episode featuring The Local Palate's Amanda FitzGerald, Chef Nick Wallace and Chef Cat Cora. It's worth listening back to hear their affections for Jackson and have them talk more about the upcoming JXN Food & Wine.

In this episode of Soul Sessions, we explore a collaborative project between Visit Jackson and Jackson State University's art department, a rebranding of local restaurants that provides real-world experience for art students. The project has had a positive impact on the students, allowing them to leave their mark on beloved Jackson institutions Bully's, Sugar's Place and Taste of the Island.

In this episode, our guest is none other than Jackson, Mississippi native and Iron Chef, Cat Cora. Cat returns home on March 2 - and says she can't wait - and talks today about her memories and culinary roots in Jackson.

In this episode, Chef Nick Wallace discusses the upcoming Jackson Food & Wine Festival and the importance of celebrating Jackson, Mississippi. He also talks about bringing fellow Top Chef contestants to Jackson and the diverse culinary talent in the state.

In this episode of Soul Sessions, Amanda FitzGerald of The Local Palate talks about the upcoming JXN Food and Wine Festival. Amanda talks about the chef lineup, the talent from Jackson and surrounding areas, the importance of the event to the capital city, the cuisine and history of Jackson, the partnership with The Local Palate, and more. Transcript: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-amanda-fitzgerald

In this episode of Soul Sessions, Keith shares the importance of musicians' contributions to the WellsFest community, an upcoming fundraiser for the late Steve Chester and an invitation to support the WellsFest CARES Fund at the Community Foundation for Mississippi. Transcript and additional links: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-keith-ferguson/

In this episode of Soul Sessions, Hal & Mal's and Campbell's Bakery Chef Damien Cavicchi discusses his love for storytelling through food and how he draws inspiration from his travels and the history of different places.

Today, we're talking to Brad Kamikaze Franklin, the founder of Jackson Indie Music Week, a seven-day music festival that celebrates independent music in Jackson, Mississippi. The conversation covers the origins of the event, its growth and impact, and the recognition of Visit Jackson's contributions to the independent music scene.

Kaegan Sparks, the new curator at the Mississippi Museum of Art, talks to us about the significance of their latest exhibition - the final stop on a multi-state tour that focuses on the landscapes of an artist that everyone knows - Pablo Picasso.

On this episode, we talk with Chief Anu Amen-Ra – the Sartorial Tobacconist and Season 4 host of Dirty Napkins – to learn how one man shares his family legacy while finding a career in doing something he truly loves.

Eudora's Mississippi Brasserie operating partner, Tyler Alford, explores the origins of his unapologetically fine dining establishment and gives us a background on where he's been and the experience he's bringing to the City with Soul's culinary landscape. https://eudoras.com/ Transcript: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-tyler-alford-eudoras

The Phillis Wheatley Poetry Festival, celebrating 50 years since its inception in 1973, is set to take place at Jackson State University. The festival was originally organized by poet Margaret Walker and brought together 30 leading black female authors. The event aimed to celebrate Black women writers and pay homage to Wheatley, the first Black woman to publish a book of poetry in the United States. The festival continues to honor Walker's legacy and will feature both established and emerging Black women writers. Dr. Ebony Lumumba is our guest and hopes to showcase the beauty and creativity of Jackson, Mississippi, and its people during the festival.

Today on our show, Dr. Clay Hays, President of Jackson Heart Clinic and Vice Chair of the Jackson Heart Foundation was one of the people instrumental in bringing about the Museum Trail and pushing for its expansion, like this month's Waterworks Connector in the Waterworks Curve.

Today, we're talking with Chris Goodwin, the special projects manager for the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. He's the man behind History is Lunch and other fascinating programs. And, we've been planning this for so long that Chris has just added more to his plate.

Today, we've freshened up and episode - a conversation my colleague Yolanda Clay-Moore has a conversation with the 22nd head coach of the Jackson State University Tigers, TC Taylor. Coach Taylor talks about his lifelong preparation for the job and he recruits players and coaches for the team. And to say the coach understands the gravity of the big shoes he's filling, all that might be an understatement.

Today we're talking WellsFest, the annual family-friendly, alcohol-free event, with food, kids' fun, and a full day of local music. Each year, a local organization benefits from this fundraiser. I'm talking to Robert Langford today, Executive Director of Operation Shoestring, this year's WellsFest charity.