Podcasts about south louisiana

If you live in South Louisiana, you probably saw the headlines last month raising alarm about the region's vulnerability to climate change. Like this one in The Guardian: ‘Point of no return': New Orleans relocation must start now due to sea level rise, study finds. WWNO and WRKF reporters Aubri Juhasz and Eva Tesfaye have been looking at the study, media coverage and how locals are responding. They sat down to talk about it with one another.The sequel to the Oscar-nominated documentary “Time,” titled “Time II: Unfinished Business,” premiered Friday on Amazon Prime. It picks up where the first leaves off, after Sibil “Fox Rich” Richardson's husband, Rob, is freed from Angola after serving 21 years for armed robbery. Fox was also involved in the robbery and served seven years in prison. The film documents the couple's fight for the release of their nephew, an accomplice who is still serving time. It also highlights their fight for justice reform to ensure punishments fit the crime. “Fox Rich” and Rob Richardson join us with more.—Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Karen Henderson. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber. We receive production and technical support from Garrett Pittman, Adam Vos and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell. You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

For more than five decades, Trent Angers has dedicated his life to journalism, publishing, and preserving the stories that define Louisiana and its people. As founder, editor, and publisher of Acadian House Publishing, Trent has edited and published 126 books over a 45-year career while also authoring six books of his own. His work has ranged from Cajun history and Louisiana political figures to military ethics, faith, and inspirational storytelling. A graduate of LSU’s School of Journalism, where he was named Outstanding Graduating Senior and received the Hodding Carter Award for Responsible Journalism, Trent followed in the footsteps of his father, Bob Angers, founder of Acadiana Profile magazine. Trent would eventually spend 36 years as editor and publisher of Acadiana Profile, helping build it into one of the longest-running regional magazines in America before selling the publication in 2010 to focus full-time on book publishing with Acadian House Publishing. During our conversation, Trent reflects on a life immersed in words, ideas, and the people behind them. “Born with printer’s ink in my blood” Trent jokes that journalism was his destiny. “You could say I was born with printer’s ink in the blood.” His father purchased the Franklin Banner-Tribune in 1953, and Trent grew up watching the realities of community journalism firsthand. When Bob Angers launched Acadiana Profile in 1968, regional magazines were virtually unheard of. “I thought he had lost his mind because there was almost no such thing as a city or regional magazine in this country at the time.” Instead, Bob Angers proved to be a visionary. More than fifty years later, the publication remains an important voice for South Louisiana. Acadian House Publishing: More Than Books Today, Acadian House Publishing is one of Louisiana’s most respected independent publishers. Its catalog includes biographies, history, cookbooks, inspirational works, faith-based books, and regional classics. Trent describes publishing as far more than simply printing books. “Publishing involves careful acquisition of titles, careful editing, fact-checking, correcting, perfecting, marketing, warehousing, accounting, and distribution.” Acadian House receives approximately 150 manuscript proposals each year but publishes only three or four books annually. “No is the most powerful word in the English language.” With limited capacity, Trent looks for books that move people, educate readers, and inspire meaningful reflection. Dispelling Myths About Cajun Culture At age 40, Trent wrote his first book, The Truth About the Cajuns, a work designed to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Acadian people. “The first book I actually wrote is when I turned 40. The book was titled The Truth About the Cajuns. The book was designed to dispel the myths and stereotypes about the Acadian people. We’re very proud of our Acadian heritage. We’re not simple minded people who aren’t so bright. We don’t all dwell in the swamp. Our lives do not revolve around eating, drinking and dancing Trent wanted readers to understand that Cajun identity extends far beyond the caricatures often portrayed in popular culture. The book remains one of the most thoughtful examinations of Cajun identity and heritage. Dudley LeBlanc: The Original Champion of Cajun Pride Another of Trent’s works is Dudley LeBlanc: A Biography, which chronicles the life of the legendary founder of Hadacol and one of Louisiana’s most colorful political figures. “Dudley LeBlanc, who founded Hadacol, was also known as the political and almost spiritual leader of the Acadian people. He had a French language radio show emanating from from Abbeville. The truth is, Dudley started the French Renaissance movement before Jimmy Domengeaux formalized it through CODIFIL. Dudley LeBlanc would bring it up and say, ‘Let’s stand up for our Acadian heritage and be proud and not ashamed of who we are, not ashamed of our heritage and culture.” While many remember LeBlanc for his wildly successful patent medicine business, Trent argues that his greatest contribution was cultural. Long before organizations formalized the movement to preserve Cajun culture, LeBlanc encouraged Acadians to embrace their language, traditions, and identity. According to Trent, both Dudley LeBlanc and James Domengeaux deserve tremendous credit for preserving and advancing Acadian culture in Louisiana. The Forgotten Hero of the My Lai Massacre Perhaps no project has shaped Trent’s career more than The Forgotten Hero of My Lai: The Hugh Thompson Story. The book tells the story of Hugh Thompson Jr., the American helicopter pilot credited with stopping the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War. “I became Thompson’s biographer and spent lots and lots of time with him in Vietnam, in Norway, and throughout the United States, in Washington, D.C., etc. I wrote his speech when he received the soldier’s medal in Washington at the Vietnam Wall, which is the highest award a soldier can earn for anything other than direct combat with the enemy,” Trent said. Trent devoted more than 3,000 hours of research across three continents to tell Thompson’s story. “That book was my opus.” The defining moment came when Thompson landed his helicopter between fleeing Vietnamese civilians and advancing American soldiers. “Not on my watch,” he said. Thompson ordered his gunner to protect the civilians, even if it meant turning their weapons on fellow Americans. His actions saved lives and ultimately helped bring the massacre to an end. Trent explains why Thompson’s story continues to resonate: “They were willing to give up their lives just because it was the right thing to do.” The book has since been placed on the reading list of the Joint Chiefs of Staff because of its lessons on leadership, battlefield ethics, and moral courage. Publishing Louisiana’s Most Influential Voices Over the years, Acadian House has published works by an extraordinary range of Louisiana authors and leaders. Among them are books by: Dale Brown Lt. General Russel L. Honoré Marcelle Bienvenu Camille Pavy Claiborne Brian Sibley Chad Judice Trent speaks admiringly of each, emphasizing not only their accomplishments but also their character, intellect, and ability to inspire others. Dale Brown and Human Dignity One of Trent’s most meaningful publishing relationships has been with legendary LSU basketball coach Dale Brown. Acadian House published Brown’s Getting Over the Four Hurdles of Life, and Trent later authored Dale Brown: Caught in the Battle for Human Dignity. He also played a significant role, along with Lafayette attorney Glenn Armentor, in the effort to have LSU’s basketball court named in Brown’s honor. “Every generation needs role models.” For Trent, Brown represents integrity, courage, compassion, and leadership. “Dale Brown is a role model of integrity, courage, bravery, intelligence.” Those qualities made him not only a successful coach but also one of America’s most sought-after motivational speakers. The Secret Life of an Editor One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation centered on the editor-author relationship. After working closely with writers for months or years, Trent says editors often develop a deep understanding of how authors think. “We call that mind meld.” His philosophy is simple: “The job of an editor is to make the writer look like a genius.” That requires more than correcting grammar. It involves improving structure, strengthening logic, checking facts, and helping authors communicate their ideas as clearly as possible. Cookbooks Outsell Almost Everything Despite publishing biographies, history, and inspirational works, Trent admits one category consistently surprises him: Cookbooks. Acadian House’s most successful title is Marcelle Bienvenu’s iconic cookbook Who’s Your Mama, Are You Catholic, and Can You Make a Roux? The book has sold approximately 200,000 copies. “That book is in the top one percentile of books ever published in America.” For Trent, the success is both gratifying and humbling. “You do a cookbook and you sell the heck out of it.” The enduring popularity of Louisiana food culture continues to introduce readers around the world to Acadiana traditions. Freedom of the Press As a lifelong journalist, Trent remains deeply passionate about the First Amendment. “Freedom of the press is the hill I would die on. This country is free, in part because of the free press. Because of the free flow of information. It’s the press’s job to educate, to inform, to entertain. We serve the public, not the government. The press exists to serve the public.” He argues that a free society depends upon the free flow of information and a press willing to challenge power when necessary. “The press exists to serve the public, not the government.” Regardless of political affiliation, Trent believes journalism’s highest calling remains informing citizens and protecting democratic accountability. What’s Next: Orphan Train to Louisiana Among Acadian House’s upcoming projects is Orphan Train to Louisiana, a book examining the little-known story of thousands of orphaned children transported from New York City to families across America. The project was inspired by a staggering historical reality. “At one point in New York City there were 30,000 babies and children on the street, homeless.” The book explores the efforts of religious organizations and charitable groups that worked to place children with loving families, including many in Louisiana. For Trent, it is exactly the kind of story Acadian House loves to tell: forgotten history that reveals the best of humanity. Faith, Service, and Gratitude Outside of publishing, Trent is active in the Secular Franciscan Order, whose members seek to live according to the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi through service, humility, and care for others. Reflecting on his blessings, he says: “We’re among the luckiest people in the world, in the history of civilization.” That perspective of gratitude, combined with a lifelong commitment to storytelling, continues to shape his work today. Whether preserving Cajun history, documenting battlefield courage, promoting faith-filled voices, or introducing readers to remarkable Louisianans, Trent Angers remains one of Acadiana’s most important cultural storytellers. To learn more about Trent Angers and Acadian House Publishing, visit their website and explore a catalog that reflects the rich history, culture, faith, and character of Louisiana.

Hanna Singh, better known as Hanna in Louisiana, joins Tigs to talk Louisiana food, North Louisiana culture, restaurant reviews, real estate, gumbo, hot water cornbread, and the never ending North Louisiana vs South Louisiana debate.They get into how Hanna started creating content, why she loves highlighting local restaurants, why North Louisiana gets called South Arkansas, the Louisiana food spots people need to stop sleeping on, and the gumbo opinion that might get her in trouble.

For many people across Acadiana, Allen & Gooch attorney Troy Broussard is known as a respected litigator and senior partner who has practiced law in Lafayette for more than three decades. But in this episode of Discover Lafayette, listeners meet another side of Troy: novelist, storyteller, songwriter, painter, observer of South Louisiana culture, and thoughtful chronicler of the complicated racial history woven into life in Acadiana. Troy joins us to discuss his recently published novel, Where Lies the Truth, a Southern coming-of-age crime story set against the bayous and backroads of St. Landry Parish. The novel opens in the summer of 1976, when 12-year-old Ezra Brasseaux embarks on what should have been an ordinary hunting trip in the swamps near his hometown. Instead, Ezra stumbles into a world shaped by violence, racial tension, buried secrets, and murder — experiences that haunt him well into adulthood. What unfolds during our conversation is far more than a discussion about writing fiction. Troy reflects candidly on growing up in Eunice during the earliest years of racial integration in St. Landry Parish schools. He describes himself and his classmates as “the guinea pigs,” among the first children thrown together as long-segregated cultures suddenly collided in classrooms and communities. “As I grew older,” Troy explains, “my views of it changed looking at it retrospectively.” He discusses the slow and deeply personal evolution away from what he calls “southern small-town indoctrination,” and how exposure to new people, ideas, and experiences gradually reshaped his understanding of race, prejudice, and human complexity. That emotional and intellectual evolution forms the backbone of Where Lies the Truth. Troy emphasizes that while the novel is entirely fictional, it is heavily inspired by real people, real conversations, and real tensions that shaped South Louisiana life in the 1970s and beyond. “This is not a true story,” he says. “But yes, it is inspired by actual events and actual people.” The story follows Ezra Brasseaux and his closest friends, Giles Poirier and Vance Doiron, as they navigate adolescence in a culturally divided Acadiana landscape. Years later, they are pulled back into the mystery of an unsolved crime involving two young Black victims, forcing them to confront painful truths hidden beneath decades of assumptions and silence. Troy says the novel ultimately explores “the idea of learning, trying to unlearn things you believed had been true your whole life, and realizing that there's another side to the story.” One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation is Troy's nuanced discussion of race in South Louisiana. He argues that Acadiana's cultural history cannot simply be reduced to Black-and-white narratives. Instead, he describes a far more layered social reality involving Cajun Catholics, white Protestants, Creoles, and African Americans — all with their own tensions, identities, and historical wounds. In researching the novel, Troy interviewed people from a wide range of backgrounds and heard stories that profoundly affected him, including accounts of colorism and exclusion that persisted even within Black communities themselves. He shares one striking example involving the “brown paper bag test” still being informally referenced in certain university social circles as recently as a decade ago. The conversation also dives deeply into the creative process itself. Troy spent nearly 15 years writing the novel, beginning the project in his early 40s and finally completing it in his mid-50s. What began as a sprawling 1,200-page manuscript eventually had to be painfully condensed into a publishable form. “The difficult part of the editing was not so much the technology,” Troy explains, “but when you write something and you really immerse yourself in the creative process, what you write kind of becomes like your children.” He jokingly compares the process to “Sophie’s Choice of editing,” where every deleted scene altered timelines, relationships, and emotional continuity throughout the story. Troy credits several influential teachers with shaping his ability to write. He speaks with tremendous affection about Elaine Dumais, his teacher in the gifted program in St. Landry Parish, who first introduced him to creativity and artistic thinking. He also honors his demanding high school English teacher Carol Fuselier, whose relentless standards prepared him not only for law school but ultimately for writing fiction. “I knew how to write because she gave that to me,” Troy says. “She pushed me.” Listeners will especially enjoy hearing Troy describe how characters begin to “write themselves” once a novelist becomes immersed in a story. He explains that dialogue became his favorite part of the process because it allowed him to fully inhabit personalities vastly different from his own — from successful professionals to deeply flawed, struggling characters such as Uncle Nedrick, one of the novel's most memorable voices. The discussion also touches on literary influences, including To Kill a Mockingbird and A Time to Kill. Troy shares how Atticus Finch profoundly shaped his image of what a lawyer should be: someone who works with integrity and seeks justice regardless of public pressure or cultural norms. Beyond writing and law, Troy reveals a rich creative life filled with music, painting, travel, mountain biking, and songwriting. He has written more than 75 songs over the years and remains an avid guitarist with a collection ranging from Martin acoustics to smaller travel guitars perfect for early morning songwriting sessions. He and his wife Beth also share a love for the outdoors and for their energetic Hungarian Vizsla, who frequently joins them on hikes and bike trails. Toward the end of the interview, producer Jason Sikora asks the obvious modern question: could Where Lies the Truth someday become a film or streaming series? Troy laughs at the idea but admits he would welcome the opportunity, even suggesting Paul Rudd as his dream casting choice for Ezra Brasseaux because of his ability to balance seriousness with humor. This episode of Discover Lafayette is ultimately a conversation about memory, identity, truth, and the stories we inherit about ourselves and our communities. Through Where Lies the Truth, Troy Broussard invites readers to confront uncomfortable realities while also recognizing the possibility of growth, empathy, and personal evolution. Listeners can find Where Lies the Truth through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and follow Troy through his personal Facebook page as he continues sharing news about the book and future projects.

Mike Broussard is only 23 years old, but his voice sounds like it came straight out of classic country's golden era.In this episode of Tigs Bits, Mike joins the show along with Traveling with Terin for a conversation about Louisiana music, old school country, social media, stage fright, family roots, and the grind behind building a music career the right way.Mike shares the wild story of how Randy Travis's team reached out after hearing him online, the trip to Meridian that did not exactly go as planned, and how he handled the whole thing without letting it break his spirit. He also talks about growing up in a South Louisiana music family, overcoming stage fright, playing shows several nights a week, running his music like a business, and writing his single “There Will Be No Flowers.”Terin also shares stories from filming The Fois, including playing a swamp witch and walking into a Mexican restaurant still covered in fake blood.We also get into classic country influences, Louisiana food debates, jar roux vs homemade roux, crawfish, gumbo, steak sauce, embarrassing moments, and the songs that feel like the soundtrack of their lives.Follow Mike Broussard: Mike Broussard MusicFollow Terin: Traveling with TerinFollow Tigs Bits for more Louisiana stories, food debates, music conversations, and real people doing interesting things.

Episode 678. Emily Zobel Marshall comes on the podcast to discuss her research on trickster characters, particularly the ones in her book, American Trickster: Trauma Tradition and Brer Rabbit. Trickster characters. Emily Marshall's concept of the American Trickster explores a unique archetype that evolved from the fusion of diverse cultural folklore—primarily African, Indigenous, and European—into a distinctly American figure. Unlike traditional European tricksters who often serve as moral foils or agents of chaos, Marshall's American trickster is defined by survival and subversion. This figure often operates within systems of extreme oppression, using wit, "masking," and linguistic dexterity to outsmart more powerful adversaries. Emily is a Professor of Postcolonial Literature at Leeds Beckett University. She is of French-Caribbean and British heritage and grew up in the mountains of Snowdonia in North Wales. An expert on the trickster figure in the folklore, oral cultures and literature of the African Diaspora, she has published widely in these fields, including her books Anansi's Journey: A Story of Jamaican Cultural Resistance (2012, UWI press) and American Trickster: Trauma Tradition and Brer Rabbit (2019, Rowman and Littlefield). She develops her creative work alongside her academic writing and her collection Bath of Herbs was published by Peepal Tree Press in 2023. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 222 years. Order your copy today! This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Louis Charles Roudanez. 'Is the Black Code Still in Force?'     'Sec. 9. If any slave shall strike a white person, for the first and second offense he shall receive such punishment as the jury shall think proper, but for the third offence the said slave shall suffer death; and whenever any slave shall have grievously and willfully wounded any white person, although it prove to be the first offense, such slave shall suffer death; provided the blow, wound, mutilation or bruises are not made or committed in defense of the person or property of his master.'     Does any sane person living in New Orleans today believe that such a law would, could or should be enforced by any civil power in this city under existing circumstances? Yet there it stands, printed in the 'Revised Statutes of Louisiana,' under the head of the 'Black Code,' and if we are to be guided by 'high authority' in legal matters, a judge in one of our anomalous courts would be derelict in his duty not to pronounce the sentence of death on a colored person, convicted under this statute, who had heretofore been held as a slave, and had never been manumitted according to the laws of Louisiana. This week in Louisiana history. May 15, 1915. Huey Long admitted to the Louisiana Bar as "a full fledged lawyer."  This week in New Orleans history. May 15, 1921: The first scheduled commercial flight arrived in New Orleans, marking the beginning of the city's modern aviation era. This week in Louisiana. Gonzales Jambalaya Festival May 15, 2026 Lamar‑Dixon Expo Center, 9039 S. St. Landry Avenue Gonzales, LA 70737 Held annually on Memorial Day Weekend; the 2026 festival is coming up later this month Website: jambalayafestival.net Email: info@jambalayafestival.net Phone: (225) 647‑9569 The Gonzales Jambalaya Festival is a South Louisiana tradition featuring world‑champion jambalaya, live music, carnival rides, and cooking competitions throughout the long Memorial Day weekend: World Champion Jambalaya: Daily servings from top cooks competing for the festival title. Live Music & Entertainment: Multiple stages with regional bands and family‑friendly performances. Carnival Rides & Activities: A full midway, games, vendors, and community events across the festival grounds. Postcards from Louisiana. Molly Ringwalds. My Sharona. Kenner Italian Festival.  Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

So far in this mini-series, we've talked about how we can see God and see Love in our midst. Through His creation surrounding us, we can see Him and learn more about Him and how scriptures can come to life. Now, we're going to transition to what others see in us and we're starting with those who are always watching (even when we think they aren't)… our children. Today, my friend and author of Her Children Arise: Passing a Legacy of Faith to the Next Generation, Casey Hilty, is joining us.Casey shares wisdom through all of her seasons of motherhood thus far, but for all you mommas who are launching your seniors or continuing to release them as they navigate college and young adulthood, Casey's words will be particularly encouraging to you.Casey Hilty is a speaker, artist, worship leader, and author of Her Children Arise: Passing a Legacy of Faith to the Next Generation. Using storytelling and visual art, she is passionate about taking mothers on a journey to fall in love—or back in love—with God and His Word. Casey recently jumped back into the world of teaching after being a stay-at-home mom for 14 years. She and her husband, Bo, have three school- aged kids, a gaggle of pets, and call South Louisiana home.Today we're talking about:What our children see in and through usFear of the Lord and its impact on our familiesLegacy - shaping the next generation so they can shape theirs

673. Part 1 of our conversation about prison reform with returning guest Leslie Bary. In this episode, we discuss Leslie Bary's recent article, “From Angola with Love: Activism, Academics, and the Abolitionist Future,” which chronicles her thirty-year journey providing post-conviction relief and solidarity for death row and maximum-security prisoners at the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Leslie examines the intersection of praxis and theory, the limitations of the prison-industrial complex, and the evolving relationship between academic work and abolitionist activism. Leslie Bary is an Assistant Professor of Spanish and Latin American Studies at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she specializes in Latin American literature and cultural theory. A Comparative Literature scholar with a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley, her work often bridges the gap between literary studies and humanitarian support, including recent efforts assisting ICE detainees in Louisiana. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 222 years. Order your copy today! This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Kevin Cutrer. 'The School Custodian on the Birds and the Bees.' I'd say consult your biology book but textbooks never cover looks exchanged across the lunchroom table: the language is too ' clinical, no boy meets girl, just sperm meets egg. I guess by now you've discovered legs as if they were a phenomenon never before stumbled upon. This doesn't make you Ponce de L'on. You're just a part of the old pattern everyone sees, but no one learns in time to do them any good. This week in Louisiana history. April 10, 1824. French Marquis de Lafayette arrived in New Orleans. This week in New Orleans history. April 10, 1845: The French Opera House opened its doors at the corner of Bourbon and Toulouse Streets, serving as the cultural heart of the city for over 70 years. This week in Louisiana. Books Along the Teche Literary Festival. 102 W. Main Street New Iberia, LA 70560 Hours: Various event times (Friday evening through Sunday) Website: booksalongthetecheliteraryfestival.com Email: info@booksalongtheteche.com Phone: (337) 364-6114 This festival celebrates the literary culture of South Louisiana with a focus on the works of James Lee Burke: Dave Robicheaux's Hometown: Take guided tours of the locations made famous in Burke's mystery novels set in New Iberia and the surrounding bayous. Authors on the Teche: The event features readings and workshops from celebrated regional authors and poets. Cajun Culture): Enjoy live music, local cuisine, and the "Great Southern Writer" symposium held in the historic Sliman Theater. Postcards from Louisiana. Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar.            Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

We sit down with Will Fontenot from Hunt Repellent to hear how a DEET-free, scent-free insect repellent went from a South Louisiana problem to a fast-growing product on shelves across multiple states. Along the way we get into the sales grind behind retail growth, plus turkey hunting obsession, public land pressure, and how habitat changes can ripple through waterfowl country. • the origin of Hunt Repellent and why EPA testing shaped the launch timeline • why DEET-based products can damage rubber, plastics, and hunting gear • how the team grows from 30 stores to 250 stores through in-person demos • why cold calling retailers fails and walking in works • where the product sells best from mom-and-pop outdoor shops to gas stations near public land • Will's background from LSU forestry to account management to leading sales • Louisiana hunting life from duck hunting decline to going all-in on turkeys • practical public land turkey strategy focused on access, trucks, and avoiding conflict • the costs and planning behind chasing a multi-state turkey season • crawfish farming, water depth, and why duck decline debates get complicated DM One Hell of Life podcast on Instagram or TikTok to enter the monthly listener drawingCall or text 850-251-8650 or visit www.floridaducks.com to book your trip, Williamson OutfittersUse code ONEHELLOFALIFEOUTDOORS for 15 percent off your order @ www.froggtoggs.comDirty Duck Coffee: use code onehellofalife15 for 15% offWant to Duck Hunt in Arkansas? Call Kade at Delta Thunder Outfitters at 870-926-7944 Follow us on instagram! https://www.instagram.com/onehellofalifepodcast/?hl=en

At the historic grounds of Vermilionville, beneath the oaks and along the bayou that so vividly reflect our region's living history, this special episode of Discover Lafayette was recorded during the second annual LFT Fiber Powered by Connectivity Summit on March 19th, 2026. The summit's theme, Growth Powered by Fiber, Where Technology Meets Community, comes to life in a conversation with Whitney Savoie, Chief Marketing Officer of FlyGuys, a Lafayette-based technology company operating at the intersection of innovation, safety, and cultural preservation. This LFT summit showcased local leaders and gathered their thoughts on the power of connectivity in shaping our community, businesses and the economy. Whitney brings more than 15 years of experience in marketing, brand development, and customer acquisition, much of it rooted in high-growth tech startups. Her journey includes early work with Waitr, where she says she was “in the first 1% of employees,” helping scale what was then a groundbreaking on-demand food delivery platform. Reflecting on those years traveling across the country launching markets, she shared a perspective that would later shape her appreciation for home: “What that taught me then, and I have an appreciation for now, is in every small to medium community that I went into, you couldn’t feel the culture like you can feel in Acadiana.” That deep connection to place is central to Whitney's story. Raised along the bayous near Morgan City, she recalls a childhood that feels quintessentially South Louisiana. “In high school, my dad would take me crawfishing to make extra money, in the marsh in a pirogue lifting traps.” Today, as she reflects on culture through the lens of technology, she sees opportunity in preserving those moments. “I need to go back out with my dad and take pictures, even maybe put a drone up because I want to preserve that memory.” That idea, technology as a tool to preserve, not replace, human experience, runs throughout this conversation. FlyGuys itself is a powerful example of how innovation can serve real-world needs. Headquartered in downtown Lafayette and operating nationwide, the company provides drone-based data capture services across industries ranging from infrastructure and construction to agriculture. As Whitney explains, “FlyGuys is a reality data capture platform. We match data seekers with data providers.” Those providers include a network of approximately 20,000 FAA Part 107 certified drone pilots across the country. The concept is deceptively simple but highly impactful. When a company needs critical visual or analytical data, whether inspecting a cell tower, surveying farmland, or assessing storm damage, FlyGuys deploys a pilot to capture that data safely and efficiently. “Instead of having a human climb that cell tower, a drone can do it safer, faster, more efficiently.” The data is then processed and analyzed through FlyGuys' platform, delivering actionable insights to clients. The applications are vast. In agriculture, drones can identify disease at the level of a single plant, reducing the need for widespread pesticide use. In infrastructure, they allow for safer inspections of bridges, roofs, and aging structures. In cultural settings like Vermilionville, FlyGuys has even created “digital twins,” highly detailed 3D models, using advanced ground scanning technology to document and preserve historic spaces. Underlying all of this is an immense reliance on connectivity. FlyGuys processes thousands of missions each month, each generating massive amounts of data. “One mission could produce 10,000 files,” Whitney explains. “We do about 8,000 missions a month.” The ability to upload, process, and analyze that data in real time depends entirely on robust, high-speed internet infrastructure, making events like the LFT Fiber Connectivity Summit especially relevant. But for Whitney, the conversation ultimately comes back to people. In one of the most memorable moments of the interview, she reflects on hosting FlyGuys team members from Colombia in Lafayette. A crawfish boil at Moncus Park turned into an impromptu cultural exchange, blending zydeco dancing with salsa. “It was like this beautiful marriage of both cultures coming together… It was the picture of what we’re trying to preserve.” That spirit, connection across cultures, generations, and technologies, is exactly what she hopes people take away from the summit. “My hope is that people really understand what the LFT fiber team is trying to do here. They’re trying to bring us together. It’s really not about the technology. It’s about the fact that we’re all connecting and human. The beauty of the whole conference to me is that tech isn’t the hero, it’s the people that are the heroes and the things that we’re doing with the tech. In this age of technology, with AI, where there is some fear and trepidation, I believe that humans are going to really start leaning into that human connection.” In a time when artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly reshaping how we live and work, Whitney offers a grounded reminder of what matters most. “We need to preserve the human connection through all of it because that is what matters at the end of the day.” From the bayous of her childhood to the cutting edge of drone technology, Whitney Savoie's story is one of honoring where we come from while building thoughtfully toward the future. And in Acadiana, where culture runs as deep as the waters that shape it, that balance may be our greatest strength.

Derrick Todd Lee makes his way to Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. While his reign of evil and terror upon South Louisiana was over, his mere existence would leave a lasting effect on those who would cross his path.  Derrick Todd Lee (DTL) terrorized the Baton Rouge and Lafayette Louisiana. A Serial Killer who took the lives of at least (7) women in the late 1990's and early 2000's, Lee's reign of terror finally ended in late May of 2003 when he was captured in Atlanta, GA after being linked by DNA to several of the murders. This is DTL  Hosted by Kelly Jennings and produced by the experts at Envision Podcast ProductionsTimestamps:00:44 Entering Angola: A New Reality04:17 Life on Death Row07:58 The Prison's Daily Grind12:00 The Isolation of Death Row18:54 Reflections in Solitude27:26 The Final Days28:07 Remembering the VictimsFor Media or Advertising Inquiries Envisionpodcaststudios@gmail.com

Derrick Todd Lee makes his way to Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. While his reign of evil and terror upon South Louisiana was over, his mere existence would leave a lasting effect on those who would cross his path.  Derrick Todd Lee (DTL) terrorized the Baton Rouge and Lafayette Louisiana. A Serial Killer who took the lives of at least (7) women in the late 1990's and early 2000's, Lee's reign of terror finally ended in late May of 2003 when he was captured in Atlanta, GA after being linked by DNA to several of the murders. This is DTL  Hosted by Kelly Jennings and produced by the experts at Envision Podcast Productions

In this episode of Run the Riot, David sits down with Ryane Broussard, a driven runner, mom of four, and woman of faith who chased one goal for nearly two decades: qualifying for the Boston Marathon. But Ryane's path wasn't a straight line. After a sudden back injury left her unable to feel or control her left leg, doctors told her she'd need to find a new hobby and stop running. Ryane refused to accept that as the final word. What followed was years of rehab, identity rebuilding, and learning what perseverance really looks like—until she finally put it all together on race day and earned her Boston qualifier. This conversation is packed with practical lessons for any ultrarunner (or anyone training for marathons, ultrarunning, or ultra racing) who's faced setbacks, self-doubt, or the weight of a long-term goal. What You'll Hear in This Episode: Ryane's start in sports (including lacrosse) and how competition shaped her mindset Moving from Texas to South Louisiana and finding a running community The back injury that changed everything (and the hard season that followed) Doctors said “no more running”—how Ryane approached recovery anyway Identity shifts: when running becomes who you are (and how to reset it) The Boston qualifier chase: flu, self-sabotage, vomiting at mile 19, and trying again The power of words, self-talk, and what you “partner with” mentally Why community matters: pacers, training partners, and people who believe with you How she fits training into real life: faith, marriage, kids, work, then running Key Moments Starting point: sports background + love of achievement Back injury + surgery: the moment everything changed Rehab reality: relearning basic movement and rebuilding confidence The Boston goal: 30 marathons, setbacks, and alignment on race day The win: qualifying—and keeping it in the right place Practical Takeaways for Runners Race-day alignment matters: sleep, health, weather, and fueling can make or break the day Mindset is trainable: negative self-talk can sabotage fitness you've already earned Fueling is personal: don't introduce “new” habits (like NSAIDs) without understanding the cost Build a support system: a coach, a pacer, and training partners can carry you when your brain gets loud Keep running in its place: what you do isn't who you are—especially when setbacks hit Races Mentioned in the Episode Louisiana Summer Nights 50K/ultra effort Zydeco Marathon Stennis Marathon Boston Marathon qualifying standards shift

Food is not content. It's memory. It's identity. It's standards. Leigh Wilson, Marketing Director of Creative Loafing in Tampa Bay, grew up in a small Cajun bayou town in South Louisiana where everything happened in the kitchen. The family hunted. They grew their own food. Decisions were made at the table. When you grow up ten minutes from the water, you understand that food is not a trend. It's survival. It's culture. It's truth. Now she helps shape how an entire region talks about restaurants, chefs, and hospitality. What gets covered. What gets promoted. What earns attention. In studio, Chef Michael Collantes, one Michelin star, brings a different level of accountability. Precision. Discipline. Standards that don't bend. When you cook at that level, hype doesn't matter. Execution does. This conversation pulls back the curtain on: • Cajun roots and kitchen culture • The responsibility of food media • The difference between hype and honesty • The turnover and volatility inside hospitality • What Tampa Bay is getting right • What needs to be better It also marks the beginning of a deeper collaboration between Creative Loafing and Walk-In Talk Media, aligning editorial reach with documentary-driven storytelling to elevate the people who truly move the industry forward. This isn't about influencers. It's about standards. It's about substance. Welcome to the conversation. Brand Partners RAK Porcelain USA – Professional tableware partner https://www.rakporcelain.com Metro Foodservice Solutions – Studio workflow and equipment partner https://www.metro.com Crab Island Seafood https://crabislandseafood.com Citrus America https://www.citrusamerica.com/ Testo North America https://www.testo.com Cause & Industry Impact Partners The Burnt Chef Project https://www.theburntchefproject.com/ Operation BBQ Relief https://operationbbqrelief.org/ Sustainable Supperclub https://sustainablesupper.org/ Operation Blessing https://www.ob.org/ Endometriosis Foundation of America https://www.endofound.org/ Official Trade Show & Culinary Competition Media Partnerships New York Restaurant Show – Official Media Partner https://www.newyorkrestaurantshow.com Florida Restaurant Show – Official Media Partner https://www.flrestaurantandlodgingshow.com California Restaurant Show – Official Media Partner https://www.californiarestaurantshow.com Pizza Tomorrow Summit – Official Media Partner https://www.pizzatomorrow.com US Culinary Open – Official Media Partner Held in partnership with The NAFEM Show https://www.usculinaryopen.com About Walk-In Talk Media Walk-In Talk Media is an industry-recognized food and hospitality media company focused on chef-driven storytelling and B2B industry insight. Founded by Carl Fiadini, Walk-In Talk Media produces podcasts, studio video content, documentary storytelling, and live trade show coverage across the United States. The Walk-In Talk Podcast has reached millions of downloads, held the #1 spot in the U.S. Food Podcast category, was a finalist at the People's Choice Podcast Awards, and is officially recognized for its storytelling at the Central Florida Film event and the Folkestone Film Festival. Episodes and projects are also listed on IMDb, reinforcing Walk-In Talk Media's positioning as a broadcast-level media company. Walk-In Talk Media operates deeply within the professional hospitality ecosystem — connecting chefs, distributors, manufacturers, operators, and trade show networks. The platform highlights not just the plate, but the infrastructure that makes the plate possible. What sets Walk-In Talk Media apart is access and trust. Industry leaders come to the platform not to promote, but to speak candidly about sourcing, leadership, burnout, culture, distribution, innovation, and purpose. Through strategic brand partnerships, official trade show media relationships, and cause-driven storytelling, Walk-In Talk Media continues to elevate the voices shaping the future of food. Because the most powerful stories in food are still human ones.

Cajun Cooking with Hoss joins me for a no-filter conversation about food takes that belong straight in the long grass. We get into gumbo debates, bay leaves, North vs South Louisiana food, weight loss, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Mike and Charlie reported on NFL news surrounding Jets RB Breece Hall and Falcons QB Kirk Cousins. Kate Greiner, the Community Affairs Executive Manager for Woodside Energy, joined Sports Talk. Greiner discussed Woodside Energy's massive monetary investment in South Louisiana and LSU athletics. She also praised the strength of LSU's brand. Mike and Charlie broke down the wide receiver class in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Kate Greiner, the Community Affairs Executive Manager for Woodside Energy, joined Sports Talk. Greiner discussed Woodside Energy's massive monetary investment in South Louisiana and LSU athletics. She also praised the strength of LSU's brand.

Wild Child Wines is one of those rare downtown spots that feels instantly like a neighborhood living room—warm, inviting, and full of discovery. In this episode of Discover Lafayette, we sit down with Katie and Denny Culbert, the couple behind Lafayette's signature natural wine shop and wine bar, to talk about how Wild Child began, how it grew, and why it's become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Along the way, we also explore their other creative ventures—Katie's long-running boutique, Kiki, and Denny's career as a professional photographer whose work has taken him deep into food, place, and storytelling. Their vision and dedication to hospitality and curated wine culture earned Wild Child Wines a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist nomination in the Outstanding Bar category, one of the highest honors in the American culinary and beverage world. This is really a major moment for Lafayette’s food and drink scene. Katie and Denny's story starts, fittingly, in Lafayette's community orbit. Denny was photographing an event for the newspaper. “It happened to be Palates and Pate. A big fundraiser,”when their paths crossed. Katie remembers she was in her late 20s, and after a mutual friend introduced them, they “found the same friend group at the same time.” Denny wasn't from Lafayette originally; he moved to South Louisiana for journalism, explaining, “I grew up in northeastern Ohio, but I moved to Baton Rouge in 2008 to intern for the Advocate” before landing a job at The Daily Advertiser. Working for the paper, he says, became the fastest way to understand Acadiana: “I’ve been to every single high school gymnasium, every festival, every school board meeting.” He even created a column called Dishing It Out, where he'd spend time inside local restaurants and build photo essays from the same set of questions he asked each owner, every time. Katie's background is equally rooted in local business and community. She has spent years helping operate Kiki, the boutique founded by her mother, Kiki Frayard, and describes how she stepped in to help make the business viable beyond its early stage: “Not so much with the creative side of it, more with the bookkeeping, looking at numbers and keep making it a viable business.” That blend: Katie's retail and business instincts and Denny's creative storytelling, formed a foundation for what became Wild Child Wines. Runaway Dish – “Their former life” “We used to have a magazine when we were doing Runaway Dish, a physical magazine that went along with each dinner. We’d do a chef interview and then farmer interviews for all the products that we were using. That also influenced Wild Child Wines, being in that world. It’s definitely how we ended up here because we met so many chefs. Denny was photographing chefs in their kitchens for the paper. And then beyond that, chefs really didn’t know one another. There was not a tight knit chef community. The goal was to bridge that and start these dinners where we’d get two chefs together, they come up with a menu, we pay for everything, and then any sous chefs could come and hang out and help, or just watch. It brought all these cool gangs of people together that we didn’t really know and they didn’t know each other. We’d get together every few months.” The idea for Wild Child Wines grew out of lived experience, not a business plan on paper. The couple traveled frequently for work, ate in great restaurants, met chefs, and kept discovering wines that simply weren't available in Lafayette. Katie describes how a shift happened while traveling: “It changed my thinking and perspective on what wine was and could be. It opened my eyes.” She remembers thinking, “Instead of driving to New Orleans and getting cases of wine every time we go, maybe we could just open a tiny wine shop.” They already had a downtown space; Denny had been renting it since 2016 as studio and workspace, so the “tiny wine shop” idea became real. Wild Child Wines opened in January 2020, just weeks before the world changed. “Right before Covid,” they say, an unexpected test for any new business. But their concept proved resilient. “Everyone still needed wine,” Katie says, and the shop pivoted fast. “We made a website overnight,” they recalled, creating pickup windows where they'd be “boxing wine, drinking wine, handing wine to people.” Looking back, they describe it as a strange but workable season: “For us personally, it was okay… the right concept.” A big part of the Wild Child experience is how they talk about wine, without intimidation, and with a deep respect for where it comes from. Katie explains that wine is, at its core, agriculture: “Wine is an agricultural product. It’s grapes.” Over time, she says, wine became commercialized and manipulated: “When you look at what wine has become, it’s become this process where lots of things are added to preserve it” For them, the appeal of low-intervention or “natural” wine is both philosophical and physical. “It should just be grapes,” she says, and she describes the feeling of these wines as having “a liveliness.” Denny offers a simple comparison: “Think of it more as like the farmers market of wine, rather than this mass produced grocery store wine.” They focus on small producers, sometimes only “300 to 600 cases of wine a year”, and still marvel that a tiny shop in Lafayette can receive a case from a winemaker in Umbria, Italy: “That's incredible.” Inside the shop, the goal is to help people try and learn in real time. They rotate “6 to 8 wines by the glass,” and if something is open, they're generous with tastes: “We'll give you a taste, as much as you want.” Customers can shop with a glass in hand, explore without pressure, and let curiosity lead. Katie laughs that they still see themselves as learners: “We're wine babies too. I still don't know a lot about wine,” Katie says. Yet the shop's culture and hospitality, powered by a staff they praise repeatedly, creates a place where people want to linger, meet, and return. Over time, Wild Child also expanded through food, always in service of the wine, but now very much part of the experience. Katie admits the shop was originally meant to be only “a tiny wine shop with a little tasting bar, 600 square feet,” but after lockdown, food grew naturally. She began working on pizza recipes during lockdown, hosting backyard pizza parties, then bringing that idea to the shop as a low-barrier entry point: “The barrier to entry for pizza is much lower than this new wine that they haven’t seen.” She describes the strategy plainly: “Everything that we’ve added is just to get more people in the door to sell more wine. That’s the goal.” Today, Wild Child offers a popular Friday lunch, making bread in-house and building a menu around sandwiches, salads, and “snacks”—including tinned fish, olives, and small plates. Food, for them, is also about local connection. Katie talks about sourcing flour from a local mill—“the flour we’re getting is milled right down the road at Straw Cove”—and finding produce at markets: “I'll go to Moncus Park mostly…” Their approach mirrors their wine philosophy: ingredients matter, and good inputs create good outcomes. “It goes back to the wine,” Denny says, emphasizing that they want products that are “clean” and made with care. Seafood is another growing part of the Wild Child story, especially oysters. They highlight a favorite oyster farmer: “Albert “Buzzy” Besson, Grand Isle native… he’s now farming oysters there.” Besson delivers directly to the shop every Thursday, and the relationship embodies what they love about downtown: small-business networks, familiar faces, and a Main Street feeling. They describe field trips with other downtown restaurants to learn oyster farming firsthand and reflect on the changing coastal reality that is shaping new oyster traditions. Katie and Denny Culbert in 2024 at Wild Child Wines. Photo by Brad Kemp of the Advocate. One of the most delightful segments of the interview is their passion for tinned fish, which has become a signature part of the shop's identity. Katie traces her “aha moment” to a Grand Canyon trip where canned smoked oysters became the perfect camp appetizer: “We're just on a sandy beach in the middle of the Grand Canyon eating smoked oysters out of a can.” What started as a personal love turned into a curated selection that grew so big it demanded its own wall, “floor to ceiling tin fish.” They'll even plate it for guests with pickles and fresh bread: “If you come in, we'll do tinned fish plate and set it up for you.” They love that it bridges cultures too—both the adventurous foodie and “the guy who’s been eating sardines in the duck blinds” can appreciate it. The episode also includes a meaningful reflection on Lafayette hospitality, prompted by the recent passing of Charlie Goodson of Charlie G's. Katie describes growing up around Charlie G's and remembers him as “such a mentor for so many people.” They recount seeing him in recent years, coming in for lunch and wine at Wild Child Wines with his wife. and how much it meant that he supported what they were building: “We felt like we were doing something right… knowing that he loved the place and supported it.” For them, Charlie's example is part of the inspiration behind the kind of welcome they want to offer. We close with practical details, such as where to find them and when to visit, and a brief, fun photography “nerd-out” with Denny. He shares his camera choice (a Nikon Z9), his photojournalism background at Ohio University, and a simple tip that applies to everyone, even iPhone shooters: “Not mixing light sources… if you’ve got a big window… turn off all the other lights in the room and use that.” The conversation ends with a glimpse into their personal lives and how their passions have become their work. As Katie puts it with a laugh, “Our hobby is the wine shop. It’s our house.” Wild Child Wines is located at 210 Vermilion Street, directly across from Parc Sans Souci. Their hours: Tuesday–Thursday, noon–8 PM, and Friday–Saturday, 11 AM–9 PM. Visit https://wildchildwines.com/ for more information.

In recent months, New Orleans has been in the spotlight for law-enforcement reasons  — a federal immigration surge, a National Guard deployment.But what could that do to tourism, especially during Mardi Gras? The Gulf States Newsroom's Kat Stromquist reports.The Acadian Museum of South Louisiana is expanding. The museum, which is located in Erath, will open a new annex on Jefferson Island. There are also plans for more museum annexes in the future. Chairman of the museum and a CODOFIL board member, Warren Perrin, joins us for more.New Orleans virtuoso guitarist Jimmy Robinson and friends are gearing up for the annual Across the Pond International Guitar Festival, with stops in 4 Southern cities. The tour will feature artists from Italy, Canada and New Orleans, and coincide with the group's new CD, The International Guitar Trio. Jimmy Robinson joins us with all the details. __Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Diane Mack. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber and our assistant producer is Aubry Procell. Our engineer is Garrett Pittman.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Steve Robinson, pastor, leadership practitioner, and author of the upcoming book Soul Leadership. Together, we dive deep into the vital connection between leadership, trauma, and healing, exploring how leaders can move from burnout and brokenness to wholeness and real impact. Steve opens up about his personal journey, sharing honestly about years of compounding trauma—including the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the intense pressures of leading a growing church. These experiences led him to the edge of burnout, and ultimately to a powerful path of healing and discovery. Drawing from research, theology, therapy, neuroscience, and his own life, Steve reveals why caring for a leader's soul is so central to personal and organizational success. Throughout our conversation, several key themes emerge: the difference between simple exhaustion and deeper trauma, the science behind how stress and adversity affect the brain, the critical role faith and community play in emotional healing, and how adversity can become the catalyst for wisdom, empathy, and post-traumatic growth. Steve breaks down practical strategies for building resilience, the process of healing both brain and mind, and why true leadership starts with inner wholeness and connection. If you're a leader navigating challenges or want to support those around you, this episode is packed with encouragement and insight. Steve's story and research are a powerful reminder that your pain can become your purpose—and that transformation is possible when you lean into healing, connection, and the power of your soul. You'll walk away inspired and equipped to face setbacks and emerge even stronger.   About Steve, Steve Robinson is a pastor, speaker, and author and the founding pastor of Church of the King—a growing multisite church with campuses spread across the US and internationally. Under his leadership, Church of the King has launched new locations from South Louisiana to Cape Town, South Africa, and built a thriving online community that reaches people around the world with a message of hope and purpose. A graduate of Tulane University with a Doctor of Ministry from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, Steve is passionate about helping people grow in their faith, discover their God-given potential, and live with clarity and resilience. He serves on the board of Equip, a global leadership organization founded by John Maxwell, and is the author of several books, including Decide to Thrive, Perspective Shift, and Hope Again. With a passion for helping people grow and thrive, Pastor Steve is dedicated to guiding others in their faith and everyday life. He and his wife, Jennifer, live in the New Orleans area and have four children—Isabelle and her husband, Stone, and Conrad, William, and Annaliese. Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my new revised release of my book, The Power of Positive Leadership here! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Join me for my Day of Development! You'll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You'll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It's time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!  

Want to connect with Tj & Plaideau? Send us a text message.A haunted gumbo, a bayou curse, and an indie crew determined to pull off the wildest horror-comedy to come out of South Louisiana—this conversation goes deep into how “The Fois” became a full-on feature. We sit down with writer-director David Rabalais to unpack the origin of the cursed recipe, the family story at its center, and the gleefully gross folklore that turns a quiet town upside down. It's equal parts heart and chaos: a pilot returns to inherit his papa's camp, wakes the ghost of his gumbo-champion mama, and—thanks to a disastrous viral recipe—unleashes a supernatural outbreak that sloshes through the waterways.https://davidrabalaisfilm.com/Voiced by Brian Plaideau Have you been injured? New Orleans based actor, Jana McCaffery, has been practicing law in Louisiana since 1999, specializing in personal injury since 2008. She takes helping others very seriously. If you have been injured, Jana is offering a free consultation AND a reduced fee for fellow members of the Lousiana film industry, and she will handle your case from start to finish. She can be reached at janamccaffery@gmail.com or 504-837-1234. Tell Her NOLA Film Scene sent youSupport the showFollow us on IG @nolafilmscene, @kodaksbykojack, and @tjsebastianofficial. Check out our 48 Hour Film Project short film Waiting for Gateaux: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5pFvn4cd1U . & check out our website: nolafilmscene.com

Discover Lafayette welcomes Melissa Bonin, celebrated artist, poet, lyricist, and author whose work is deeply rooted in the landscape, language, and spirit of South Louisiana. A native of New Iberia with French and Acadian ancestry, Melissa is widely recognized as one of Louisiana's leading contemporary landscape painters. Her work weaves together emotion, mythology, nature, and memory—often inspired by bayous, waterways, mist, and the movement of water. Melissa's multidisciplinary voice is beautifully expressed in her 160-page book, When Bayous Speak, which pairs poetry and paintings spanning more than two decades of her artistic career. The poetry in the book reflects five to six years of work, while the paintings represent some of her most personal and enduring visual pieces. The cover image, Dances on Water, embodies the themes that recur throughout her work—flow, reflection, and deep connection to place. Finding Her Voice Through Art Melissa shared that she was painfully shy as a child and struggled to communicate with others. Her earliest breakthrough came on the last day of kindergarten, when a teacher handed her a chalkboard. “There was something I was able to express myself with, without speaking,” she recalled. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with art as language. Her grandfather, a horse trainer, would sit with her and draw simple figures, unknowingly nurturing her creative instincts. Even early recognition came with challenges; after entering a poster contest as a young child she didn’t win. She was told she couldn't have drawn the winning work herself. “But I did,” she said. Mentorship and Artistic Formation Melissa's artistic path was shaped by extraordinary mentorship. At Mount Carmel in New Iberia, teacher James Edmunds and his wife Susan exposed her to museums, music, and culture, taking her to the King Tut exhibit and the symphony in New Orleans. Edmunds introduced her to Elemore Morgan, Jr., who became a lifelong mentor. Through these mentors, Melissa began taking fine art classes at UL Lafayette while still in high school at only 15 years of age. Edmunds even received permission from the nuns to continue teaching her privately at his home. “The greatest thing he ever did for me was to get out of my way,” she said. Reflecting back on her early mentor in high school, Melissa says, “James Edmunds would have different media there. It would be watercolor or whatever. He’d say, I’ll be back in an hour. Then he’d come back and we’d discuss it. Then I’d go back to school.” Melissa went on to earn her degree in Fine Arts at USL (now UL Lafayette), studying under influential artists including Elemore Morgan Jr., Herman Mhire, and Bill Moreland. Language, Identity, and France Melissa's love for the French language developed alongside her art. Her parents belonged to what she called the “shamed generation” who did not speak French, yet her grandmother spoke only French. Wanting to communicate with her, Melissa taught herself French using a Bible she found in an armoire. Her academic journey led her abroad through scholarships from CODOFIL and LSU. She studied in Angers and Paris and described her first experience in France simply as “I'm home.” That connection continues to influence her work, which is often presented in both English and French. Art as a Living Practice Melissa described the moment she truly “found her voice” as an artist after her first major New Orleans show, when Elemore Morgan Jr. left her a message repeating, “Melissa, you have found your voice.” Her distinctive surface treatment—polished like “a gemstone or a precious metal”—became a defining element of her work. When asked how long it takes to create a painting, she quoted Picasso's famous response: “All my life.” Some works move quickly; others are painted over dozens of times. “The canvas tells you,” she said. “It's when you try to impose your will upon the canvas that you don't get too far.” Melissa Bonin shared on Facebook, “So happy to see this in Moncus Park today on my walk. What a lovely job the Haynie Family has done incorporating one of my wildflower paintings and one of my poems into their display along Lake Reaux.” Nature, Water, and Healing Melissa's work is deeply inspired by the natural world—water, mist, humidity, plant life, wildflowers, and birds. During a period of heartbreak, she began paddling her canoe on the bayou every afternoon. “When I got on the water, everything fell away,” she shared. That experience sparked her lifelong exploration of bayous as both subject and sanctuary. Today, birding has become part of her daily life and creative process. “Being out there and hearing the sounds of nature and the calls—I love it,” she said. Poetry, Rejection, and Resilience Melissa's poetry has reached international audiences, with residencies in Montreal and current opportunities in France. Reflecting on a defining moment at the Congrès Mondial in Canada—where she was the first woman to present—she recalled a comment from a well-known figure who told her, “They will always remember your painting, but your poetry will get you nowhere.” Her response was resolute: “I must have had some really good poetry to make a person have to formulate that kind of sentence.” Since then, her poetry has appeared in parks in Belgium, installations in Lafayette, and residencies across borders. “My advice is filter what people tell you,” she said. Living the Artist's Life Melissa spoke candidly about choosing to become a full-time artist after realizing her art income had surpassed her teaching salary. “I wish I would have done it sooner,” she said. Her advice to young creatives: trust the inner voice and begin before you feel completely ready. She also shared that meditation, movement, and dance—another lifelong love—play a vital role in her creative process. “When I'm really stuck, I move,” she said. “And then sometimes the answers come.” “Arianna Huffington had a quote that I love to live by. She said, “Go forward as if all the cards are stacked in your favor. And so for anyone who has a desire to paint or write, I encourage that. There’s something that happens to a person when they dig deep within themselves and really become acquainted with themselves. In that way, something beautiful happens and everyone around can feel it.” Upcoming Event Melissa will be featured in Bulles littéraires, a literary evening hosted by Alliance Française de Lafayette.

On this episode of the Limitless Podcast, Aaron Zucker sits down with serial entrepreneur Brandon Landry, the powerhouse behind Walk Ons and Smalls Sliders, for an inspiring and candid look at what it means to build iconic brands from the ground up. Hailing from a small farming town in South Louisiana, Brandon shares how lessons learned on the sugarcane fields (and at the bottom of the basketball team roster) shaped his resilient, underdog mindset.From being cut as a high school freshman to walking on at LSU and eventually founding one of the nation's fastest-growing restaurant chains, Brandon Landry reveals his journey of grit, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence. In this episode, you'll hear how early side hustles, family values, and a passion for teamwork set the foundation for Walk On's unique culture, why failing in the kitchen taught him to embrace growth, and how he's redefining the burger space with Smalls Sliders—backed by none other than Drew Brees.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to push past your own limits, this episode shines a light on the power of perseverance, building the right team, and staying true to your values as you chase greatness.

Interim Executive Director of the Port of South Louisiana, Mr. Brian Cox, joins me to talk through a career in stevedoring that began in 1999 on the dock in New Orleans with Coastal Cargo as a clerk, eventually leading him to assume a vessel supervisor role, and then a jump to Associated Terminals at their brand new Globalplex facility in 2005. As opportunity would have it, he stepped into operations and management roles with the Port of South Louisiana in 2017, and, since August of 2025, has served as the Interim Executive Director. Please check out our sponsor at https://portsl.com/

Andre Michot, a driving force behind Louisiana's cultural soundscape and a founding member of the Grammy-winning Lost Bayou Ramblers, joins Discover Lafayette to discuss Michot Accordions. Widely known for pushing Cajun music forward while remaining deeply rooted in tradition, Andre's influence extends well beyond the stage. He is also the proprietor and craftsman behind Michot Accordions, where he builds, restores, and customizes traditional Cajun accordions entirely by hand—creating instruments that don't just make music, but carry culture. We sat down with Andre right before Christmas 2025, inspired in part by a recent Acadiana Profile article highlighting local craftsmen who help preserve the region's musical heritage. Andre reflected on the shrinking number of Cajun accordion builders, noting that while there are now “maybe 10 or 12 accordion builders in South Louisiana,” there were once “30 or more in the 70s and 80s.” A Family Steeped in Music Andre's musical roots run deep. He grew up surrounded by Cajun music through his father and uncles, who started playing together as Les Frères Michot, an all-brothers Cajun band, in 1986. The individual musicians have played with each other and with numerous other groups since then. Although accordion music was always present in his home, Andre didn't begin playing the instrument himself until age 24. Before that, he filled in on guitar with his family's band in the mid-to-late 1980s. “That's what I play with Lost Bayou Ramblers,” Andre shared, explaining that he learned accordion by borrowing instruments from his father, uncles, and anyone else who would lend him one. In 1998, Andre and his brother Louis formed Lost Bayou Ramblers, with Louis playing fiddle at the same time Andre took up accordion. Learning the Craft Andre's path to accordion building began through curiosity and mentorship. A pivotal moment came when his friend Ray Abshire encouraged him to learn tuning from Randy Falcon, a respected accordion builder known for a sound associated with Cajun music from the 1930s through the 1970s. “There's probably no playbook,” Andre explained. “It's mostly done by ear.” While machines help with precision, tuning ultimately depends on feel: air pressure, reed response, and how notes interact when played together. Andre described the Cajun accordion as “quite a feat of engineering,” with “a hundred little metal reeds” held in place by beeswax. Unlike guitars, which rely on resonance, the accordion produces sound through air compression, making it both mechanical and deeply physical to play. Inside a Cajun Accordion Technically known as a melodeon, the Cajun accordion features ten buttons on the melody side and two bass buttons for rhythm. Pressing a single button opens air channels to four sets of reeds across different octaves, producing layered sound from one note. The bellows, expanding and contracting, drive both airflow and rhythm. “It's very physical,” Andre said. “When I started, I would get halfway through a song and be out of breath.” He later realized he had been breathing in and out with the bellows themselves. Cajun accordions are diatonic, meaning each button produces different notes depending on whether the bellows are pushed or pulled. This design creates the distinctive rhythmic pulse central to Cajun music. From Repair to Building Andre's transition from tuning and repair to full instrument building came when Randy Falcon offered to teach him how to build rather than sell him an accordion. With a background in carpentry and furniture-making, Andre found the process both challenging and deeply satisfying. After building his first accordion, word spread, especially as audiences learned of his craft through Lost Bayou Ramblers’ performances. Orders followed from family, fellow musicians, and fans. “That gives the accordion its soul,” Andre said of the delicate reed work. “That part has got to be right.” Materials, Sound, and Customization Most accordion components can be sourced locally, including wood, often cypress, sometimes supplied by customers themselves. Certain parts come from Italy, where Andre says, “80 to 90% of the accordions and accordion parts in the world” are produced, particularly reeds and bellows, which require a highly specialized manufacturing process. Andre customizes each instrument based on how a musician plays. He listens to recordings, watches hand positioning of the artist, and considers tonal preferences. Differences in reed materials, zinc versus aluminum plates, steel reeds, block shaping, and tuning style, all can dramatically affect sound. “It helps playing the accordion in addition to building them,” he said. “It's nice to be able to put those two together.” The Joy of Completion Building an accordion takes Andre an estimated 80 to 100 hours, from cutting raw wood to final tuning. As he approaches the final stages, installing reeds, buttons, and bellows, he describes entering a kind of creative frenzy. “I can't wait to hear how it sounds,” he said. “I've built over 50 accordions now, and I still feel that way.” Properly made, an accordion can last decades. Andre plays an instrument that is over 100 years old, including one built in the early 1900s that passed through the hands of Ray Abshire and family members before reaching him. Preserving Cajun Culture Andre sees his work as cultural preservation. By continuing the tuning methods and building styles passed down by mentors like Randy Falcon, he maintains a sound closely tied to a specific era of Cajun music. “You can play a Cajun accordion built and tuned here,” he explained, “and it's going to sound and feel different than one built elsewhere.” That sense of lineage—of sound shaped by place—is central to his work. Music That Never Stops Andre described music as a constant presence. “I'm constantly waking up with songs in my head,” he said, sometimes humming melodies into his I-phone voice memos late at night and sending them to Louis, his brother and fellow band mate. Lost Bayou Ramblers' sound reflects not only traditional Cajun influences but also blues, rock, and other genres the band members grew up playing. Lost Bayou Ramblers recently performed at Moncus Park's Christmas event, with upcoming shows at The Blue Moon (December 26) and The Broadside in New Orleans (December 27). The band is also beginning work on a new studio album, following several recent live recordings, including their collaboration with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. For a more thorough history on the accordion’s history in South Louisiana, visit Lafayette Travel at https://www.lafayettetravel.com/blog/stories/post/cajun-creole-instruments-accordion/ Visit https://www.michotaccordions.com/ for more information on Andre Michot’s offerings.

Discover Lafayette welcomes Hans Nelsen, known on air as “Fast,” who co-hosts the morning show on Big 102.1 from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. each weekday with CJ Clements. Pictured are CJ Clements and “Fast” (Hans Nelson), co-hosts of Big 102.1’s Morning Show Hans has been on the air in South Louisiana since 1985, starting as a USL student working the graveyard shift at a new urban contemporary station and going on to serve as on-air talent, program director, account executive, and sales manager at several top local stations. He also spent years as a stadium voice and play-by-play broadcaster, and his career has become intertwined with the story of local broadcasting in Acadiana. Hans was joined by his lifelong friend Sean Trcalek, General Manager of KATC TV-3, who was once known on radio as “Charlie Roberts.” The two reminisce about their early days as radio co-hosts and their lifelong friendship. Early Love of Music and the Magic of Radio Hans grew up in a home filled with very different kinds of music, from German organ to big show tunes, and a little boy's transistor radio became his portal to the wider world of sound. He recalls: “I grew up in a household where my dad listened to German organ music and would play it throughout the house on Sunday afternoons. We had to listen to it whether we wanted to or not. My mom was really into big show tunes. ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” and “The Sound of Music.” But his own soundtrack lived on his bike: “As a little boy, I had a transistor radio that I taped to the handlebars of my bike, and I would listen to top 40 in one way or another. 1972.” He loved the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, and pop hits like “Billy, Don’t Be a Hero.” As he got older, he says, “I really wanted to be a musician, and I wanted to be a singer, and I can’t really do any of that. I can play a little guitar, but radio was this next opportunity, though I didn’t really know you could turn it into a career. I just thought it would be something I did for fun.” Learning Radio on the Graveyard Shift Hans' first job was at an urban contemporary station, Foxy 106.3 (KFXZ). Growing up in New Iberia, he already knew some of the music: “It’s funny, you could be a rock guy, but also listen to the Gap Band and Kool and the Gang.” Even so, he had to go deeper into that catalog for a targeted audience: “This was deeper and a more targeted ethnic audience. But it was a piece of cake, because I loved music.” Being alone on the air at night was intimidating: “Well, I’d listen to so much radio. You try to imitate or emulate Casey Kasem, but I was so terrible. The fact that they let me stay past the first night…It was the middle of the night miracle.” He also remembers the mind games of that lonely studio: “You’re in a room by yourself and you can play mind games because you can either convince yourself that no one hears you, or that everyone’s listening. That one mistake, everybody’s going to hear it.” Hustling Through College Radio and 24-Hour Weekends Still in school, Hans got a weekend job at KVOL (1330 AM) and was quickly recruited by KSMB: “On my second shift, Scott Seagraves called me from KSMB and said, I’m listening to you. Do you want to come work for me?” He was “so hungry” to be on the air that he took on extraordinary hours. ““I would do six to noon on KSMB on Saturday and Sunday, and quickly added noon to six on weekends at KXKW. So, I worked 24 hours in two days and worked at a bar both nights. But I knew that I had the bug, and I turn it into a job!” That building is where he and Sean first truly connected and eventually became a morning team: “And Sean comes into that building, we end up being the morning team and here we are.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1XZVTbmikg Teaming Up with Sean: Voices, Characters, and Parodies Sean came in as a young newsreader, hired to do newscasts in the morning and afternoon. Their chemistry led to a two-man show that blurred the lines between straight news and wild characters. Sean explains: “It started as you and Debbie Ray and me in news. Well, when Debbie left, it was you and me doing news. And I think it was just kind of like. Why do we need a third guy? You know, I still did the newscast, but it was a two man show.” Hans recalls the “credibility issue”: “Sean's doing the ‘17 people were killed today' delivering the news and then he’s doing this crazy voice five minutes later and people knew it was the same guy. But we somehow just moved past that.” The two displayed a gift for spontaneous skits and song parodies: “We both could really rewrite song lyrics. We could make custom versions of big songs at the time. Remember Michael Johnson's ‘Give me wings, gimme wings.” It would end up, “Don’t give me legs. Breasts or thighs!” Hans says the creativity often felt effortless. “What was special about us? A special talent we both had was that there was no prep. We would sometimes do stuff and turn the microphone off. We’d look at each other thinking, that’s good. How did we just do that?” Hans Nelson (‘Fast’) and Sean Trcalek (‘Charlie Roberts’) pictured early in their broadcasting careers on the radio together. They have remained close friends over the decades. Humor, Changing Sensibilities, and Wanting Everyone to Feel Welcome Looking back at their 1980s material, Hans is candid about how much humor standards have changed: “Yeah, it was humor, but let’s just say sensibilities are different, right?” He offered a vivid analogy from pro wrestling to show how certain stereotypes were once normalized and now are not: “The character development in the 70s and 80s was the Iranian guy or the Nazi guy was the bad guy. It was what they did. You just don’t do that now, right?” Hans shared his personal compass: “I always wanted everybody to like me. I need as many listeners as I can get. They don’t have to look like me. They don’t have to vote like me. They don’t have to drive the same kind of car as me. But I want everybody to say, ‘I like listening to that guy on the radio.” Music, Memory, and Nostalgia of Radio For both Hans and Sean, music is deeply emotional and geographically specific; certain songs instantly bring them back to particular corners of their childhoods. Hans shared, “Some songs. What I’ve always been amazed by is when you hear a song and it brings you to a specific place. I mean, like a certain corner in your hometown and you’re like, why am I thinking of that when I hear Sammy John's “Chevy Van?” He offers another vivid memory: “Saturday in the Park by Chicago reminds me of standing in line at Saint Edward’s Catholic School for the cafeteria. I don’t know why.” Becoming “Fast Eddie” and Then Simply “Fast” A big turning point came when KSMB's sister station needed a music director and night disc jockey. The job came with a new name Hans disliked: “They tell me, your name is going to be Fast Eddie.” He tried to negotiate the name away, but wouldn't get the job if he didn't accept the on-air name. KSMB was too big to walk away from: Later, when he was put in charge of a new station and morning show, he pushed to shorten the name: “When we put the morning show on, it was the rude awakening with ‘Fast Eddie and Rob.' We could have done it. It just didn’t sound right. Fast is a speed, not a name, but it ended up being I can’t go anywhere and people yell it out like it’s normal. When I hear Hans, it’s heartwarming. I love being Hans, I wish I could be Hans on air.” The Power and Future of Local Broadcasting Both Hans and Sean describe themselves first and foremost as broadcasters: “What we have always had in common and still have in common is we’re broadcasters. People say, what do you do? I don’t say I’m the general manager of a TV station, or I’m a broadcaster. We’re local broadcasters and we’re passionate about it. We have been since the day we met, and to this day, we’re passionate about the impact that local radio and television can have on a market.” For Hans, that impact includes everything from playing nostalgia-filled music to public service in storms: “By impact, I mean moving people. When you play music, when you tell them what the weather’s going to be like, but also telling people where to go pick up sandbags.” Hans reminds us, “During a hurricane, we’re still the last man standing. TV stations may go down… but I have been on the air during hurricanes when I was the only voice available on the air in this market.” Sean highlights the advocacy role broadcasters have played in keeping AM radio in cars: “We are big advocates, and were successful this past year in advocating that automakers continue to be required to put AM radios in new cars. The reason to keep AM radio is that its infrastructure often remains operational when power grids fail and cell networks are overloaded or damaged, providing a core part of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). During events like hurricanes, AM stations became the primary way people received verified, real-time information, coordinated help, and connected with the outside world when phones and internet were down. They both reject the idea that streaming will wipe out local media: Hans says, “I’ll wrap that up with saying, Satellite radio and Netflix are not going to mean the end of local radio and local TV.” A Morning Show Today: Competing With Phones, Not Just Stations Hans reflects on what it's like doing a local morning show in 2020s Lafayette: “Technologically, it’s very different. Audience participation and reception is very different. We compete with many more things. I believe my biggest competitor in drive time is the telephone.” Listeners no longer call to check school closures, they get texts, but live local radio still plays a crucial role, especially in emergencies. Hans and his long-time friend CJ now host a show built on deep local roots: “We put this show together with almost a hundred years of Lafayette radio experience in one room for four hours a morning. There’s nothing that has happened here since the 60s that we don’t know about. We know where every street is. We know where the schools are. We know it. To me, it is a gift.” Big 102.1 has embraced app listening while staying “radio-first”: “On big 102.1, we've had over 1,000,000 hours of listening on our app. We’re still a radio station first. So if that many people are listening, that’s why we’re still effective… we do everything we can to stay connected to the audience, to do relevant things, provide relevant content and make it fun.” Voice of the Ragin' Cajuns From 2009 to 2017, Hans served as the stadium voice for UL Lafayette football and basketball, a role that grew out of his lifelong fandom: “I was such a fan. I was a Ragin Cajun as a kid. I wasn’t an LSU kid or a Tulane kid. It was USL.” Eventually, security protocols and family priorities pushed him to step away so he could watch games in the stands with his daughter: “Because of security protocol, she could not come in the press box. So when it was my weekend, I lost the whole Saturday and I said I would rather be in the stands with her watching the game.” His last act as stadium voice was a memorable one: “So my last duty was to introduce Billy Napier as the head coach. And I resigned that day.” Christian's Story, Organ Donation, and a Legacy of Life In one of the most moving parts of our conversation, Hans shares the story of his son Christian, who died after a workplace accident in 2013. Christian fell from a picker truck in a warehouse, and although doctors did everything they could, the injury was catastrophic. “He fell 20 feet. When you say 20 feet, you think broken ankle, maybe broken arm, but somehow, on the way down, his feet hit the forklift and flipped him. And he landed on his head.” At the hospital, after a brief brain surgery, the doctor came in and said, “Call your family.” When representatives from Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency arrived, Hans initially felt overwhelmed and resistant: “I’m like, heck no, I’m dealing with too much.” His ex-wife, Jenn, reminded him of Christian's own wishes when he got his license. “She said he would want to do it because he asked about it when he got his driver’s license.” That decision changed everything; “I realized he was going to save somebody’s life. We ended up saving four lives and it was life changing for us.” Christian's heart went to a teenage male that had been waiting for a heart for 18 months with time running out. Christian's right kidney and pancreas went to a female in her 30s. His liver went to a female in her 40s, and his left kidney went to a little boy. His corneas were donated, which gave sight to 2 people. Hans began speaking to civic groups and driver's ed classes about organ donation: “We would tell kids at Driver’s Ed like, they’re going to ask you about this when you get your license, you should know what it means. Most people can’t be an organ donor, even if they want to. You have to die a certain way.” He and Jenn started the Christian's Legacy Foundation to create awareness of the importance of organ donation and to provide support to donor families. Stories of other young donors continue to touch him deeply: “All these years later, those stories touch me in a different way. And I would not have read that story the same way had I not gone through that.” Is Broadcasting Still a Good Career? Asked if he would still recommend a career in broadcasting, Hans doesn't hesitate, though he acknowledges the landscape has changed: “I’m always going to recommend a career in broadcast. Sean explains that media sales in particular remain a strong path, even as technology and products evolve: “Your competition is different. Your products might be different. But of all we do, that’s probably changed the least.” There are fewer jobs, but better pay and more efficiency: “KATC had 100 employees not long ago. Our building was built for 120 people and we’ve got 52 now. And it’s not just because of efficiencies. Our cameras are robotic now Hans still longs to see young people with the same hunger he and Sean had: “I would love to see some young person who was like me or Sean who was willing to work 24 hours in two days when I was at KSMB. They fired the janitor, and for nine months I cleaned the building every night after I did my show, because I wanted them to see that I was willing to do anything to make it. And that’s not beneath me.” Through stories of late-night graveyard shifts, irreverent morning shows, hurricane coverage, stadium announcing, heartbreaking loss, and renewed purpose, Hans Nelson, “Fast,” reminds us why local broadcasting still matters. As he and Sean put it, they are, above all, local broadcasters, passionate about “the impact that local radio and television can have on a market” and the ways music, stories, and community can move people. You can contact Hans Nelson at Fast@big1021.com.

In this episode, we dive into the world of custom duck calls with Farrel Charpentier, a maker whose roots run deep in South Louisiana. Hear how he transitioned from offshore work to call making, why he chose the Arkansas-style call, and the challenges of perfecting sound and design. Plus, insights into Reelfoot Lake's unique call maker gathering and the camaraderie that defines this craft.https://www.facebook.com/farrel.charpentier/Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you're winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.

Mike and Bobby interviewed Les Sackett, the Silver Slipper's marketing manager, and Glen West, a senior writer at Geaux247 Sports. The guys broke down the college coaching cycle, featuring Marshall Faulk to Southern, Jon Sumrall to Florida, and Lane Kiffin to LSU. Mike and Bobby recapped the Saints' 21-17 loss to the Miami Dolphins and slammed New Orleans' consistent awful first-half performances. West evaluated Kiffin's fit at LSU.

Recent brides and their fathers who paid for the wedding won’t be surprised to learn that the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is between $30,000 and $36,000, depending on the couple's choices, incuding the wedding location and number of guests. One of the major costs of any wedding is photography. In an image-driven society where pics of the most mundane activities are posted online for public consumption, capturing the biggest day of many women’s lives in pictures is often complicated. Along with conflicting emotions about body image, and the stress of a major financial investment, unlike the informal pictures of a birthday or a vacation, wedding photos capture a rite of passage and who doesn’t want to look their best for posterity? Wedding photographer Katelyn Craven of Butterflies of Hope Photography knows how to ensure that the money is well spent. Butterflies of Hope Photography is a family-owned photography studio founded by Katelyn’s mother, Heather Banker. Working out of their Prairieville studio, Katelyn leads all wedding photography under her own brand, Butterflies of Hope by Katelyn, and frequently travels across South Louisiana— from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Lafayette and St. Francisville—for weddings and engagements. During the pandemic, many brides were either postponing big-ticket weddings or opting for smaller backyard unions at home. As a result, couples have become more aware of the environmental impact of their special day. Invitation cards, welcome bags, and other plastic props and tchotchkes that were once trendy but too often discarded are now passe for the environmentally-friendly couple. Wedding bouquets and flowers aren’t immune to the trend either, with planners noting fewer boutonnieres and more pocket squares for the groom and groomsmen. But what of the bride and her maids? Inspired by her own disappointing experience with a wedding florist, Lauren Bercier co-founded Something Borrowed Blooms, a rental service featuring premium silk floral collections that couples can rent for about 70% less than fresh flowers. What started with a dozen weddings a month has grown to more than 2,000 weddings per month during peak season, with over 55,000 weddings fulfilled to date. Out to Lunch is recorded live over lunch at Mansurs on the Boulevard. You can find photos from this show by Ian Ledo and Miranda Albarez at itsbatonrouge.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike and Deuce previewed an exciting weekend of fall football, highlighting the start of the LHSAA Playoffs and LSU's Battle for the Boot with Arkansas. Audacy NBA Insider Nick Friedell joined Fans and the Pro. Friedell broke down the Pelicans' rough 2-9 start to the 2025-26 season. He criticized New Orleans' front office, ownership, and forward Zion Williamson. Friedell also previewed the Pelicans' upcoming schedule.

Today we shine a spotlight on Louisiana Grass Roots, a compelling new documentary produced by Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard and directed by Jillian Godshall. This film captures the voices of everyday Louisianians working to preserve our state's environmental and cultural heritage, highlighting powerful grassroots movements shaping our future. Jillian and Phyllis join us to share the inspiration behind the documentary, the stories that moved them most, and why community-driven action matters now more than ever. This episode is also special on a personal note—Jan Swift's daughter, Kelly, who works in the film industry at the Manship Theater, made this introduction. Even though we all live and work in the same region, this documentary brought us together in a way that highlights what community truly means in South Louisiana. About the Filmmakers – In Their Own Words Director Jillian Godshall began by expressing gratitude for the local connection that made this collaboration possible. “I am a filmmaker. I'm also an educator. I've been doing both for over 15 years at this point. It's taken me all over the world. I'm really glad to be here in Lafayette doing that work as well.” Her background is deeply rooted in documentary storytelling: “My background in filmmaking is mostly in documentary filmmaking. I've worked on big budget, large scale reality TV show stuff—don't tell anyone—and all the way down to where I feel most comfortable now, which is working on smaller-scale independent projects, having more of the creative leadership role, directing and being super involved in every aspect of production.” Jillian also teaches video editing to incarcerated students through an organization called The Last Mile: “I currently teach video editing to incarcerated students… and work with Phyllis, hang out with Phyllis, plant plants with Phyllis.” Producer Dr. Phyllis Baudoin Griffard shared her deep Louisiana roots and her global experience in science education: “I'm from Lafayette originally, grew up all over the South… I got a degree from USL in zoology and then went off to graduate school in biochemistry. I came back to Louisiana and started teaching at Xavier University, and I knew then that's what I wanted to do.” Phyllis' work has always focused on connecting people to the land and ecology around them: “Even as a biologist and teaching university students, I always was looking for local examples and to reconnect students outside the textbook to the biology that's in their own backyard.” She emphasized the importance of place in identity: “When I came home, I heard French, I heard the music—you can really connect to this place.” The Origin of Louisiana Grass Roots: A Story Rooted in Place, Memory, and Rediscovery Jillian and Phyllis did not come together through a traditional film industry channel; they were united through a local experience that awakened something deeper. Phyllis explains that after returning to Lafayette and connecting with the Acadiana Master Naturalist Program, she began to understand the importance of the Cajun Prairie through firsthand fieldwork. “One of the topics is about the Cajun prairie… I had learned about the prairie, and I knew about it more from when we lived in Texas, because the people in and around Houston just ooh and ah about the prairie scientists we have over here: Larry Allen, Charles Allen and Malcolm Vidrine, who discovered what they have since called the Cajun Prairie. 2.5 million acres. Most of Southwest Louisiana was part of this prairie, which only less than 1% exists today.” It was during a field trip with the Master Naturalists that she crossed paths with Jillian: “I led one of the field trips and found out that Jill was a filmmaker, and I happened to say, ‘Oh, I just finished doing a film, The Quiet Cajuns, with Conni Castille.' And her ears perked up and she said, ‘Well, I think we should make a film about the prairie.'”

Mike and Steve previewed Tulane's AAC road matchup against UT-San Antonio. Saints color analyst Deuce McAllister joined Sports Talk to discuss New Orleans' challenge against the Rams. Mike and Steve interviewed Jeff Duncan, a columnist for The Times-Picayune, and Wilson Alexander, an LSU reporter for The Advocate. Duncan discussed the historic connection between LSU football and Louisiana politics. Alexander shared his thoughts on LSU AD Scott Woodward and interim head coach Frank Wilson. Mike and Steve spoke to former LSU head football coach Ed Orgeron about his interest in returning to coaching. Mike, Steve, and Charlie played their weekly "Pick-Six" segment.

EPISODE 190 | In this episode, author Chris Landry joins us to share the story behind his book Cajun Kids Adventures, a series inspired by his own family's experiences. Chris opens up about how he weaves real-life lessons into his writing while also encouraging dads to play an active role in homeschooling. He offers practical advice on how fathers can make learning engaging and fun, while passing down life skills that today's traditional classrooms often overlook. From outdoor adventures to hands-on projects, Chris shows how dads can enrich their children's education—and enjoy the journey themselves.ABOUT OUR GUEST | C.P. Landry is a lifelong resident of South Louisiana and a descendant of the original French Acadians. His wife of over 40 years shares a similar heritage as the fifth generation to hunt and fish the Atchafalaya River Basin. Together, they raised their five children to respect both their heritage and their land. The Cajun Kids Adventures series is loosely based on the experiences, challenges and shenanigans of his children's unique upbringingThanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

A cross-continental journey is on the agenda for the August 2025 New Music Train today, chugging from Dublin to South Louisiana. That's a trip that means Liam McIndoe and Kevin Clement, who discuss new music from Anna von Hausswolff, Run, Margo Price and The Beths. Rockin' the Suburbs on Apple Podcasts/iTunes or other podcast platforms, including audioBoom, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon, iHeart, Stitcher and TuneIn. Or listen at SuburbsPod.com. Please rate/review the show on Apple Podcasts and share it with your friends. Visit our website at SuburbsPod.com Email Jim & Patrick at rock@suburbspod.com Follow us on the Threads, Facebook or Instagram @suburbspod If you're glad or sad or high, call the Suburban Party Line — 612-440-1984. Theme music: "Ascension," originally by Quartjar, next covered by Frank Muffin and now re-done in a high-voltage version by Quartjar again!  Visit quartjar.bandcamp.com and frankmuffin.bandcamp.com.

Mike and Deuce previewed the upcoming weekend of football in South Louisiana. Deuce shared his keys to the Saints' test in Buffalo against the 3-0 Bills.

Mike and Deuce previewed the upcoming weekend of football in South Louisiana. Deuce shared his keys to the Saints' test in Buffalo against the 3-0 Bills.

What is a Non QM Loan? Your Chef Dwayne Stein will explain what it is and why the people of South Louisiana should know about it. Later Dwayne goes over the latest data on Existing Home sales. Finally lets get you in the game with a refi and falling rates. All that and more on Mortgage Gumbo w/ Dwayne Stein 8/23/25

I judged every dish at the Pit vs Pot cook-off in South Louisiana—from curry chicken and stuffed pork chops to ribs, jambalaya, and the winning pineapple cherry dump cake. Only one dish scored a perfect 10!

Escape to scenic South Louisiana with Randy, Caly, and guest Ashtin Nguyen, Assistant General Manager of Camp Margaritaville Breaux Bridge. Discover why this one-of-a-kind RV resort is the perfect destination for family vacations and road trips, featuring luxury RV sites, fun party vibes, live music, and endless amenities that bring the Margaritaville lifestyle to life in Cajun Country.Book your next stay at Camp Margaritaville Breaux Bridge at https://www.campmargaritavillebreauxbridge.com.Subscribe to RV Destinations Magazine at https://RVDestinationsMagazine.com and use code PODCAST20 to save 20% on your subscription today!

Mike and Deuce celebrated an exciting night of high school football in South Louisiana. The guys discussed the Saints' final injury report. Evan Giddings, the host of the "Bleav in 49ers" podcast, joined Sports Talk. Giddings reviewed San Francisco's injuries before the Saints-49ers game. Giddings shared his thoughts on DC Robert Saleh, QB Mac Jones, the 49ers' kicking game, and RB Christian McCaffrey. The guys previewed LSU and Tulane's big matchups against Florida and Duke.

Mike and Deuce celebrated an exciting night of high school football in South Louisiana. Evan Giddings, the host of the "Bleav in 49ers" podcast, reviewed San Francisco's injuries before the Saints-49ers game. Giddings shared his thoughts on DC Robert Saleh, QB Mac Jones, the 49ers' kicking game, and RB Christian McCaffrey. Mike and Deuce interviewed Gordy Rush, the sideline reporter for LSU football, about the upcoming LSU-Florida matchup. Mike and Deuce criticized the NIL and transfer portal era of college football. Deuce shared his keys to a Saints victory in week two over San Francisco.

Mike Esneault talks and plays music with Louisiana Music Hall of Fame performer and song writer Chris LeBlanc. They discuss Chris' formative years growing up in a musical family in South Louisiana as well as being influenced by the blues and many other genres of music that he heard and played in his hometown of Baton Rouge. In addition, they play three of Chris' original songs.

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Christopher Ange from Sulphur, Louisiana. Chris shares his journey from growing up in Lake Charles surrounded by Cajun and Sicilian culture to becoming a passionate ultrarunner and race director. We talk about: His early days running the Crescent City Classic with his dad. Pacing a friend at his first 50K and discovering the trail running community. Founding the No Man's Land Trail Run after hurricanes nearly destroyed local trails. The unique challenges and beauty of running in South Louisiana — humidity, banana spiders, gators, and all! Balancing family, work as a chemical engineer, and training for ultras. His experiences at Boston and Houston Marathons, and plans for the 100-mile distance at Lugaroo. More info: Chris Ange on Run the Riot

Mike Esneault talks with radio personality, educator and musician, Rob Payer. They discuss Rob's history in radio, particularly as it relates to Baton Rouge Magnet High School and their long-standing radio educational program and his role as program director. In addition, they discuss many other topics including the rich musical heritage of South Louisiana, preserving that heritage through education, as well as Rob's work as a performing musician.

Welcome to a very special series of the Louisiana NOW podcast, Hope Beyond the Storm. Ten episodes that tell the stories of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in South Louisiana. Twenty years after the storms, the recovery isn't just history—it's still shaping lives, churches, and communities across South Louisiana. This series shares first‑hand stories of resilience, hard choices, and holy grit from pastors, lay leaders, volunteers, and neighbors who rebuilt together. After Katrina toppled the steeple of Rayne Memorial UMC into its sanctuary, Rev. Callie Winn Crawford wrestled with both the physical and emotional rebuilding. She shares how mental health strategies and intentional purpose-setting guided her through the storm's aftermath. Her story offers a roadmap for finding clarity and mission after chaos.

Welcome to a very special series of the Louisiana NOW podcast, Hope Beyond the Storm. Ten episodes that tell the stories of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in South Louisiana. Twenty years after the storms, the recovery isn't just history—it's still shaping lives, churches, and communities across South Louisiana. This series shares first‑hand stories of resilience, hard choices, and pastoring from pastors, lay leaders, volunteers, and neighbors who rebuilt together.  Katrina became a defining moment for Rev. Kaseem and Sabrina Short, awakening a call to serve in bold new ways. They share how the crisis clarified their mission and deepened their faith. Their journey — selling everything they had and moving from Seattle, back home - underscores that God's call can come in life's most turbulent seasons.

Ryan Trahan, a certified athletic trainer at Thibodaux Regional Sports Medicine Center, joined Sports Talk. Trahan previewed Nicholls' "week 0" matchup with Incarnate Word, explaining how the training staff is preparing to handle the late-August South Louisiana heat.

The June 2025 New Music Train is flying down the track from Scotland (after picking up Steven Routledge) to South Louisiana (to pick up Kevin Clement). This inimitable duo kick off the listener portion of June 2025 New Music with new songs from Kathleen Edwards, Panopticon, The Rolling Stones with Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys and Shannon McNally, Keith Frank and Molly Tuttle. Rockin' the Suburbs on Apple Podcasts/iTunes or other podcast platforms, including audioBoom, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon, iHeart,Stitcher and TuneIn. Or listen at SuburbsPod.com. Please rate/review the show on Apple Podcasts and share it with your friends. Visit our website at SuburbsPod.com Email Jim & Patrick at rock@suburbspod.com Follow us on the Threads, Facebook or Instagram @suburbspod If you're glad or sad or high, call the Suburban Party Line — 612-440-1984. Theme music: "Ascension," originally by Quartjar, next covered by Frank Muffin and now re-done in a high-voltage version by Quartjar again!  Visit quartjar.bandcamp.com and frankmuffin.bandcamp.com.

From a humble start in South Louisiana to building restaurant empires across America, Paul Fleming's journey is a story of grit, hospitality, and vision. As the founder and force behind beloved brands like Ruth's Chris (West Coast expansion), PF Chang's, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse, Paul Martin's, Lake Park Diner, and Paulita's Tacos—Paul has helped define American dining for over three decades. In this episode, Paul reflects on how growing up with strong family values and working in every position in the restaurant world prepared him for a life of entrepreneurship. He shares how his oil business pivoted into hospitality, why working alongside people he respects keeps him energized, and how staying close to the customer is still his greatest advantage.  From building cultures of generosity to investing in the next generation of food innovators, Paul's insights are equal parts practical and inspiring. You'll hear how he chooses the right time to exit a business, why he's never looked back, and how values-based leadership has shaped his lasting impact. “People are everything—and they're expensive when you get them wrong.” – Paul Fleming “We pay our vendors like slot machines—and we get the best product because of it.” – Paul Fleming “I've never looked back on a business I sold. The timing was right, and there's always another great concept to build.” – Paul Fleming This Week on The Wow Factor: How a “poor Cajun boy” from South Louisiana built multiple billion-dollar restaurant brands The early days of PF Chang's—and the lettuce wrap that changed everything Why Paul believes the restaurant industry and soccer have more in common than you think How great hiring, vendor respect, and intentional generosity build lasting businesses The legacy of Ruth's Chris and the lessons Paul learned from Ruth herself How his wife Jody is leading the charge on new concepts like Paulita's Tacos and PJK Chinese Paul's insights on staying positive, working hard, and building brands with purpose Why private equity isn't just about money—it's about people, timing, and culture What makes Lake Park Diner in Naples a local go-to and a tribute to a visionary partner Paul Fleming's Word of Wisdom: You've got to work your butt off in a business you're good at and enjoy—for 25 years. Focus, commit, and trust that effort over time creates impact. The real legacy is built when you invest in people, treat vendors with respect, and lead with consistency. There's no shortcut—just sustained effort, community, and doing what's right. Connect with Paul Fleming: You can experience Paul's legacy at restaurants across the country including: Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar PF Chang's Paul Martin's American Grill Lake Park Diner PJK Neighborhood Chinese Paulita's Tacos Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)  

Paul writes “Hi Wes. I've been listening to your show for quite some time now. I've had two sightings in different locations here in Louisiana but have been reluctant to share with anyone for a few reasons. I'm born and raised in South Louisiana and also spent a lot of time in East and NE Texas. I've spent a good amount of time outdoors and in the woods hunting, camping and fishing. I'm a Police officer which is one of my reasons for being reluctant to share. The First event took place on June 1st 2019 I say event because I didn't physically see anything. My son (he was 6 1/2 at the time) and I were remote camping in the Kisatchie National Forest. The location was located between Alexandria and Natchitoches LA. We had camped at this same location at least 3 times prior to this without any issues. It was not a designated camping spot but more of a clearing with bluffs on 3 sides. It's a beautiful location that's slightly off the beaten path of a remote fire road. We had met a friend of mine and his girlfriend there the day before for a couple of days of camping and off-roading. We set up camp on Friday afternoon, the day before. We both drove off-road Toyota 4runners. He had a roof top tent on his and we set up our large ground tent. Now me being a LEO I go pretty much everywhere heavily armed, especially remote camping. This trip I had my sidearm, a Sig P320 9mm, and also my suppressed .300 Blkout SBR M4 style rifle with two 30 round mags. Yes I'm a gun nerd. We all just hung out that evening around the fire and had sandwiches. That night we went to bed at about 10pm. I had my pistol and rifle in the tent with me. My son and I slept on a queen size inflatable mattress. We heard nothing outside of the normal forest sounds that night. The next day we went off for the day exploring and off-roading around the area. I left my tent and gear setup there, as I did many times before. We got back to camp around 4pm Saturday afternoon. It seemed like a few items were scattered around but I couldn't be sure and just thought maybe it was the wind or something. That evening rather than sandwiches again we cooked tacos and made smores. Yeah they were jam up!! We sat around the fire again just talking until about 9ish and then went to our tents. I'd say we were about 30-40 yards from each other. My son wanted to watch a movie on the iPad so we did that for a while until he fell asleep. I remember it was right at 11pm because I got out of the tent to put the iPad in the truck to charge. My phone was also in the truck because there was zero cell coverage there so it was pointless having it in the tent. I went back in the tent, took my pants and shirt off because it's hot as shit here and got settled in for bed. Then it dawned on me I forgot my rifle in the locked case in my 4Runner. I had my 9mm with me so I said screw it as I didn't feel like getting dressed again to go get it. Only real threat we have here would be black bears although I'd never seen one out there so I figured 16 rounds of 9mm would be more than sufficient for anything I might need. I had no way at this point to tell the time but I'm guessing it was about 30 minutes or so later that things got really strange. I was just drifting off to sleep but an eerie sense of complete silence came over me. I mean nothing was making noise, no crickets, birds or anything. Then I heard something coming up from the slight bluff through thickett behind us. It was a moderately wooded area but not real thick. My kid was playing in that same area that afternoon so I was familiar with the area. Whatever was coming up from the woods was stealthy but still made some noise moving through the brush. I could easily tell it was big, at least big in the sense that it wasn't a opossum or raccoon or something like that. My first thought was a bear. My second thought was I didn't have my damn rifle and the truck was locked and at least 30 yards from the tent. I reached for my pistol and slid it out of the holster and layed it across my chest. I thought about getting the truck keys and setting off the panic mode, hoping that would scare off whatever it was. I reached around trying to find where I put my pants to get my keys but I couldn't find them from where I was laying. I was trying not to make any noise so I didn't want to get up. It was at that time that I heard a loud pop, like when you step on a stick and it breaks. The movement at that time completely stopped. It was as if whatever it was knew it made a loud noise and paused walking. At least a minute or two went by without a single sound, then it started walking toward the tent again. As it got closer I could clearly tell that it was walking on 2 legs. It was definitely bipedal, no doubt. I thought this is a person but who hell would be coming out of the woods at midnight and approaching an unknown camp. The sound and weight of the foot steps as it got closer was no way a person. They were so heavy sounding. As it stepped close to the tent you could feel them on the ground. Not shaking the ground per say but damn you could feel the percussion of them. It walked right next to the tent down one side, and I mean right next to it. Wes I've never been scared for my life until this night. My only thought was “please don't let my son wake up”. I knew if he did he would make noise and I was trying to be completely quiet. I had a death grip on my pistol but something told me a 9mm was not nearly enough for whatever was out there. I made up my mind that shooting it was a last ditch resort. I thought my safest option was complete silence. It made its way around the head of the tent and then stepped away a little bit. Like maybe to check out the truck. I immediately heard it come closer to the tent again and start down the other side, walking the opposite way, like toward where it came from. It was then I almost died. It touched the outer roof of the tent as it walked the entire length of the tent. I could only imagine that it drug its finger down the tent as it walked along. It was a pitch black night so I couldn't see anything or even a shadow, but I could see the tent shake and it touched the roof. As it got to the end of that side it paused for a few seconds and then continued out towards the woods. This walk was different though. It was more hurried and seemed to not care about the noise it was making. As it hit the woods you could hear it pick up the pace as it made its way through the brush. I layed there completely still. Maybe after a few minutes or so the forest returned to its normal sounds. The whole thing lasted what seemed like maybe 5 minutes but honestly I really don't know. Other than the footsteps it made little to no sounds other than 2 maybe 3 slight huffs, if you know what I mean. There was a noticeable odor as it was close but nothing putrid as I've heard people report. Wes again I was terrified for my son's safety the most. I swear I layed in that exact position until the sun came up. I don't think I fell asleep at all. I wanted to get up and try to retrieve my rifle from the truck but I was scared that it was still watching. If my kid wouldn't have been there I think I would have reacted differently but also probably foolishly as well. I feel him being there may have actually saved my life. I didn't get out of the tent until I heard my buddy get out of his. I came out and looked around and nothing had been disturbed. I asked him if he heard anything last night. He said he thought he heard someone walking around but figured it was me getting up to pee or something. I looked around the tent to see if I saw prints of any kind but the ground was hard and grassy. I could see where the area around the tent was disturbed but no prints of any kind. I don't know what that thing was but I know it was huge. There is no way anything that wasn't walking upright could reach the roof of the tent. I know without a doubt it was not a person. If it was, he was huge!!!! Again I know I'm leaving out so many details here. Second Sighting This sighting was on November 8th 2020. It was just North of I-10 near the town of Rosedale. This is on the Eastern edge of Atchafalaya Basin and very close to the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area. The area is very rural, with wetland woods and sugarcane fields. I was on my way home from Texas traveling East on LA 76 about 1am. Again the road has no lighting and is very dark, with no traffic at that time of night. My 4Runner has ditch lights installed for off-roading. These are in intensity LED cubes mounted at the base of the windshield angled at 45 degree outward. They are to light up the ditch area out to the side of the truck when off-road. I normally wouldn't run these on the highway but I usually do on this road because it's so dark and there are deer everywhere along this stretch. Where I was the highway is elevate about 3-4′ higher that the surrounding field.I was traveling along a cane field which is separated from the road by a deep ditch, maybe 10′ deep and about 20′ wide, and there is about a 20 yard separation from the edge of the ditch to where the cane is planted. November is right at harvest time so the cane is about 10-12′ tall at this point. I'm going about 45 mph along this cane field and coming up to a point where the cane ends and the woodline starts. I travel this road often so I know where the marker reflectors are but in the distance I see a pair of what I thought were amber reflectors in the field where I know they shouldn't be. Now keep in mind I have way more lighting than the average vehicle so I'm seeing this at probably 100 yards or so. I know this isn't right so I took my foot off of the gas and started slowing down a little bit to check this out. As I get closer I see that these are not reflectors. I very clearly see a huge creature standing at the corner of this cane field holding a dead deer in its arms. I'm completely in shock at what I'm looking at but I immediately know what it was. There was at least an 8′ Sasquatch standing there looking back at me. It was standing against the cane close to where the woods were. It was maybe 2′ shorter than the cane so it was easily 8′ tall. It was holding a whitetail doe in both arms like it was cradling it. The deer's head was twisted the wrong way from where it should have been, obviously its neck had been broken. My thought is it had chased the deer down from the cane or woods and I just happened along at that moment. It was looking at me with the same amazement as I was looking at it. It just had the oh shit I'm caught look. It was completely frozen as I was passing. I would have thought it was a statue except as I passed it took a step with its left foot to watch me pass, rather than turning its neck. I just drove past it until I couldn't see it any longer and then thought to myself, “you idiot why didn't you stop”. Like before I just had this fear come over me. When I snapped but to my senses I knew I had to go back. Maybe another 100 yards past there was a culvert over the ditch that I was able to turn around at. I floored it back to where it was but it was gone. I pulled over another culvert right where it was, shining my lights down the stretch of dirt road between the cane and the woods but didn't see anything. I really thought about driving back there or getting out and looking for tracks but all I had was my 9mm with me. There is almost zero chance that would have offered me any protection from this creature had it chosen to come after me. I sat there for 10 minutes just looking all around hoping for another glimpse. Like I said it was at least 8′ tall with dark brown hair (I'd say cinnamon brown but darker). It was completely covered in hair except for the face around the eyes and cheek area. The skin there is what I'd describe as brown for several shades lighter than the hair, I guess maybe tan. The eyes were huge like the size of coffee cups and the eyes reflected a bright amber color, reflected not shined. The head was smaller in proportion to the shoulder width than it should have been with a slight pointy shape toward the top. It had a flat wide nose but more human shaped than ape shaped. The arms were long looking but hard for me to say how long because they were curled up supporting the deer it was holding. The legs were massive looking with the upper leg length very out of proportion compared to a human. I guess I'm trying to say the knees looked much lower making the upper thigh area look longer. It stood with the knees slightly bent. Okay this will sound crazy but the only thing I have to compare it to would be Patty and Chewbacca. LOL It had the Patty look but the build of Chewbacca. It looked much taller and leaner than Patty. It was at least twice as wide as a large person though. This thing had to weigh 600 plus pounds easily. I was on the elevated roadway in my truck but almost looked eye level with it. Maybe it was taller than 8′. I know I'm leaving out details here. I'd be happy to answer any questions that I could if you have any. I could also get pics of the area and pinpoint them on a map. The sugarcane has already been harvested this year so pics probably wouldn't help much. Why didn't I think to go back and document things better? I was in shock for so long I guess. I still have a hard time processing all of this and especially talking about the first incident. That was the scariest thing I've ever experienced. I hope all of this makes some sense and if you'd like any further detail just let me know. Thanks for your time Wes and thanks for putting out this podcast for us. I never thought listening to your show that I'd be writing this email. Hope you had a great Christmas and have a happy New Year.”