49: SOWELA is more than just a trade school
Guest Dr. Neil Aspinwall, the Chancellor of SOWELA Technical Community College, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss SOWELA’s impact in the Lake Area and how they contribute to local businesses. Find out why SOWELA is, ‘Not your granddaddy’s old trade school anymore.’ Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLa...
39m Jul 31, 2024
39m
48: You want to know how the Boudin is made
Guest Glenn Daigle, the owner/operator of Rabideaux's Sausage Kitchen, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the delicious world of boudin. Daigle touches on boudin's history, what's in it, the best ways to eat it, and so much more! Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org (https://www.visitlakec...
35m Jul 17, 2024
35m
47: Giddy up for fun at Almosta Ranch
Guest Bill Bolen, the owner/operator of Almosta Ranch, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the ranch and all that falls under their umbrella. From a petting zoo to carriage rides, Almosta Ranch will likely have something to make you smile!
29m Jul 03, 2024
29m
46: Discover Pasta Lab, where art meets science
Guest Michael Gardner, the owner/operator of Pasta Lab, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Pasta Lab, where the art and science of pasta making combine! The trio discusses the lab’s origins, the product offerings and the three types of classes offered!
52m Jun 19, 2024
52m
45: We are all orchestra people with Lake Charles Symphony
Guest Beth Dawdy, the Executive Director of Lake Charles Symphony, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the orchestra’s impact on Southwest Louisiana. With monthly events and multiple big concerts per year, like the upcoming Summer Pops, she will prove to you that we all are orchestra people.
43m Jun 05, 2024
43m
44: Batter up: Lake Charles Gumbeaux Gators
Guest Sam Moore, the Lake Charles Gumbeaux Gators General Manager, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the baseball team’s upcoming inaugural season. The trio discusses the team’s origins, promotional nights and plenty more about the newest team in the Texas Collegiate League.
35m May 22, 2024
35m
43: Have a laugh with Lake Charles Comedy
Guest Jacob Guidry, a Lake Charles-based comic, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the comedy scene in the Lake Area. Between weekly shows and special events, Lake Charles Comedy always has something to tickle your funny bone.
37m May 08, 2024
37m
42: Get Cultured with the Arts Council
Guest Cameron Fultz, the Executive Director of the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Arts Council's role in making all of Southwest Louisiana a more enriching place to experience!
33m Apr 24, 2024
33m
41: Lake Charles is a southern city on the rise
Guest Kimberly Dellafosse, the Assistant City Manager for the City of Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Lake Charles’ inclusion on Southern Living’s 2024 Best Cities On The Rise list.
35m Apr 10, 2024
35m
40: Home sweet Home Fest
Guest Lauren Olsen, the president of the This is Home Fest board, joins host Brady and guest host Kathryn Shea on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Home Fest’s 4th annual celebration! The trio dives into the inspiration for the festival, what to expect and what could be next for one of Lake Charles’ premier music experiences.
30m Mar 27, 2024
30m
SPECIAL EPISODE: Music Festivals in Lake Charles
In Southwest Louisiana, we know how to throw a party! The next few months see plenty of FREE music festivals rocking Lake Charles' lakefront and downtown. Join Brady and Jillian on a special edition of Louisiana's Playground for a rundown of must-attend events filled with music, food, and fun for the whole family!
15m Mar 20, 2024
15m
38: Play like a kid at Lake Area Adventures
Guest Tim Robles, the co-owner/general manager for Lake Area Adventures, a locally owned family event center in Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the many offerings LAA has for the family to take part in. From climbing walls and the airpark, to the restaurant, aquatic center and gamers lounge, there is something for everyone at Lake Area Adventures!
45m Feb 28, 2024
45m
37: Discover your inner nerd at CYPHACON
Guest Garrett Manuel, the co-owner and event coordinator for CYPHACON, Southwest Louisiana’s Premier Pop Culture Convention, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss CYPHACON’s many offerings as the event enters its 14th year. It’s a weekend filled with celebrities, musicians, vendors, video and board gaming, 120 hours of unique programming, fan groups, cosplay contest...
41m Feb 14, 2024
41m
SPECIAL EPISODE: 2024 Mardi Gras Events Schedule
Southwest Louisiana’s Mardi Gras celebrations are nearly upon us as Brady and Jillian discuss all the upcoming events tied around Louisiana's most unique holiday on this special episode of Louisiana’s Playground. Events start on Feb. 8 and run through Mardi Gras Day on Feb. 13.
26m Feb 07, 2024
26m
36: Celebrate Mardi Gras with the men of Omega Psi Phi
Guest Leo Colquitt, a member of the Krewe of Omega, a Mardi Gras Krewe in Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Mardi Gras experience in Lake Charles from his Krewe’s perspective. Krewe of Omega is made up of members from the Rho Chi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and is the only Krewe in SWLA to hold its own parade. Colquitt highlights the pa...
31m Jan 31, 2024
31m
35: Krewe-zing into Mardi Gras season
Guest Gena Millslagle, the Captain of Krewe du Sauvage, a Mardi Gras Krewe in Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Mardi Gras experience in Lake Charles from the Krewe’s perspective. She details Lake Charles traditions, the lavish Mardi Gras balls put on by the Krewes and what’s it like to prepare for a multi-hour parade.
35m Jan 17, 2024
35m
SPECIAL EPISODE: 2024 Chuck Eats Restaurant Week
Chuck Eats Restaurant Week is nearly upon us and Brady and Jillian discuss all the deals, prix fixe menus and some of their favorite items you’ll see during the culinary celebration. On this special episode of Louisiana’s Playground, the duo dishes on all the local restaurants that are lending their local flavor to Chuck Eats from January 19-28.
33m Jan 10, 2024
33m
34: Get a taste of Latino culture at Area 337
Guest Gus Garden, the owner of Area 337, a Latino restaurant in Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss his restaurant's re-opening following a devastating fire. Garden touches on his influences, his story and why he thinks the best is still yet to come for Lake Charles.
42m Jan 03, 2024
42m
33: Explore Sportsman's Paradise with SWLA Royalty
Guest Jordyn Kelley, the reigning Louisiana Fur and Wildlife Festival Queen, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss her experience as a festival queen in Louisiana as well as what one can experience at the “Oldest and Coldest” festival in the state.
25m Dec 20, 2023
25m
32: Get a taste of resort life at L'Auberge
Guest Kevin McCarthy, the Executive Chef at L’Auberge Casino Resort, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss L’Auberge’s numerous culinary offerings. The resort boasts eight restaurants ranging from casual fair to fine dining. The trio also touches on Southwest Louisiana’s unique food culture and the different experiences one can have on the casino property.
40m Dec 06, 2023
40m
31: Celebrate the Christmas Season Under the Oaks
Guest Neida Kaye Loup, the chair of the Holiday House joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Christmas Under the Oaks, an annual Christmas festival in Sulphur. The celebration has lights, carriage rides, food, a carnival and live music acts. The scene is so picturesque, that you’ll swear you’re in a Hallmark movie.
32m Nov 22, 2023
32m
30: Always a Good Bet: Horse Racing at Delta Downs
Guest Don Stevens, the Racetrack Announcer at Delta Downs in Vinton, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Delta Downs’ numerous entertainment offerings from horse racing to the casino, sportsbook and dining options on property.
40m Nov 08, 2023
40m
29: Southwest Louisiana is a Golfing Destination
Guest Pam Shaheen, a golf tourism expert, joins Louisiana’s Playground to break down the best public courses to play while visiting Southwest Louisiana. With multiple options and plenty to do off the course, Lake Charles will be your new favorite golfing destination.
39m Oct 25, 2023
39m
28: Take in the performing arts at the Rosa Hart Theatre
Norman McKnight, the Rosa Hart Theatre Supervisor and Technical Director, joins co-hosts Brady Renard and Taylor Stanley on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Rosa Hart Theatre’s impact on the community and its rededication on Oct. 15.
29m Oct 11, 2023
29m
27: Catch an event at the Burton Complex
Guest Jason Barnes, the Director of the Burton Complex, joins co-hosts Brady Renard and Eric Zartler on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Burton Complex’s impact on the Lake Charles community. The complex hosts many types of events each year from high school state championships to state-wide rodeos and community events.
36m Sep 27, 2023
36m
26: Festival development with Smoke & Barrel
Guests Nathaniel Allured and Adam Fontenot, the founders of Smoke & Barrel, join host Brady Renard on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the upcoming Smoke & Barrel Festival and what the process of starting a festival is like. From the initial idea to the why behind their charity partner, the trio discusses the behind-the-scenes as well as the bourbon and BBQ event itself.
39m Sep 13, 2023
39m
25: Be a sports betting Caesar at Horseshoe Casino
Guest Brandon Hartwig, the manager at Caesars Sportsbook in the Horseshoe Casino, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the casino’s first year in Southwest Louisiana as well as the fan experience at the sportsbook.
28m Aug 30, 2023
28m
24: Louisiana Tourism with the Lt. Governor
Guest Billy Nungesser, the Lt. Governor of Louisiana, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the travel industry in the state of Louisiana. The trio talks culinary, culture and the state’s plan to expand its international market.
31m Aug 16, 2023
31m
SPECIAL EPISODE: Fall Festivals and Events in Lake Charles
In Southwest Louisiana, we like to celebrate, well, everything! The fall season is packed with festivals and events and the Louisiana’s Playground podcast is here to give you a rundown of what to expect from Lake Charles’ biggest celebrations over the next few months. Brady and Anna discuss all the upcoming fall events on this special episode of the podcast. Learn more about upcoming events in...
21m Aug 09, 2023
21m
23: Experience the Louisiana Food and Wine Festival
Guest Jan Gourley, the Founder/Festival Director at Adfish Group, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the upcoming Louisiana Food and Wine Festival. The trio touch on all the experiences you don’t want to miss during the four-day event. In addition, find out why Lake Charles is the perfect destination for the culinary celebration.
35m Aug 02, 2023
35m
22: Entertainment is a Feeling at Golden Nugget
Guest Josh Robinson, the Chief Marketing Officer at Golden Nugget Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the casino resort’s numerous entertainment offerings from big acts coming into town, to a relaxing pool day by the lazy river. Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.
33m Jul 19, 2023
33m
21: Hooked on SWLA Charter Fishing
Guest Captain Andrew Soileau, the owner and operator of High Tide Charters, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss charter fishing in Southwest Louisiana. The trio talk fish, the best time of the year to be out on the water and the many places you can be picked up to have your own charter fishing adventure!
30m Jul 05, 2023
30m
20: Queen of Louisiana Seafood
Guest Amanda Cusey, the 2022 Queen of Louisiana Seafood and Executive Chef at The Terrace Restaurant, joins Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the Louisiana Seafood Cook-off coming to Lake Charles for the first time. The trio also touch on the live-action experience of the cook-off and how the honor has catapulted Chef Cusey's career over the last year.
36m Jun 21, 2023
36m
19: Lake Charles’ Historic Charpentier District
Guest Adley Cormier, a local historian, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Lake Charles’ rich history and its Charpentier Historic District. Known for its unique variety of architectural styles and materials, the Charpentier Historic District is living history in the city. Cormier also touches on local ghost stories, urban legends and notable moments in Lake Charles...
48m Jun 07, 2023
48m
18: Zydeco Music Roots in SWLA
Guest Brandon Ledet, a local Zydeco musician, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the history of the Louisiana-based music as well as what makes the genre so endearing. Ledet focuses on the feeling of the music, the unique instruments as well as why Southwest Louisiana is the perfect place to take in the foot-tapping sounds of Zydeco.
31m May 24, 2023
31m
Louisiana's Playground Podcast Trailer
Louisiana’s Playground is a podcast about all there is to experience in Lake Charles. Join hosts Brady Renard and Jillian Corder as they share fresh perspectives from locals, businesses, and area experts about the best-kept secrets of Southwest Louisiana. This podcast will give you all the tools you need to build your personal Lake Charles itinerary. Louisiana’s Playground explores what it mean...
1m May 17, 2023
1m
SPECIAL EPISODE: Summer Festivals and Events in Lake Charles
In Southwest Louisiana, we like to celebrate, well, everything! The summer season is packed with festivals and events and the Louisiana’s Playground podcast is here to give you a rundown of what to expect from Lake Charles’ biggest celebrations over the next few months. Brady and Anna discuss all the upcoming summer events on this special episode of the podcast. Learn more about upcoming eve...
19m May 17, 2023
19m
17: Investing in Lake Charles with Mayor Hunter
Guest Nic Hunter, the Mayor of Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the city of Lake Charles and its future. The trio touch on upcoming projects as well as those that have shaped the city over the last few years. Mayor Hunter also discusses Investor’s Day, as he aims to bring more businesses to the city.
47m May 10, 2023
47m
16: Fly Local with Lake Charles Regional Airport
Guest Heath Allen, the Executive Director of the Lake Charles Regional Airport, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss LCH’s impact on the Lake Charles region and new ways the airport is improving. LCH offers direct flights to Dallas and Houston, making Lake Charles a one-stop link to hundreds of destinations.
35m Apr 26, 2023
35m
15: Southwest Louisiana's Only State Park
Guest Tracie Ramey, the park manager at Sam Houston Jones State Park, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Southwest Louisiana’s only state park! The trio discusses the park’s newest facility upgrades, camping opportunities, hiking trails and upcoming events. Sam Houston Jones State Park is one of the premier places in the Lake Area to enjoy the great outdoors!
38m Apr 12, 2023
38m
14: Railroad History of DeQuincy
Guest Vance Perkins, the president of the DeQuincy Railroad Museum Board of Directors, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the railroad industry’s impact on the town of DeQuincy. DeQuincy is located in the northern part of Calcasieu Parish and is the home to the DeQuincy Railroad Museum and the Louisiana Railroad Days Festival. Perkins touches on the founding of DeQu...
31m Mar 29, 2023
31m
SPECIAL EPISODE: Spring Festivals and Events in Lake Charles
In Southwest Louisiana, we like to celebrate, well, everything! The spring season is packed with festivals and events, and Louisiana’s Playground podcast is here to give you a rundown of what to expect from Lake Charles’ biggest celebrations over the next two months. Brady and Anna discuss all the upcoming Spring events on this special episode of the podcast. Go to visitlakecharles.org/events...
15m Mar 22, 2023
15m
13: The Youth Sports Capital of Louisiana
Guest Eddie Bonine, the Executive Director of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the LHSAA’s role of bringing high-quality championship events to Southwest Louisiana. The trio touch on the behind-the-scenes preparations from the staff involved to the way the brackets are put together as well as what to expect from a ch...
47m Mar 15, 2023
47m
12: Louisiana Seafood Matters
Guest Samantha Carroll, the Executive Director of the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the impact of seafood to Louisiana. The trio discusses seafood’s role in the state’s economy, workforce and culture. In addition, Carroll dishes about her experience with the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off as it heads to Lake Charles f...
39m Mar 01, 2023
39m
11: Cash & Carry Farmer's Market
Guest Giva Foy, the manager for the Cash & Carry Farmer’s Market joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the market’s role in the community and what offerings the weekly market typically has. In addition, the trio discuss the historic Cash & Carry building and an upcoming project produced by Visit Lake Charles.
29m Feb 15, 2023
29m
SPECIAL EPISODE: 2023 Mardi Gras Events Schedule
Southwest Louisiana’s Mardi Gras celebrations are nearly upon us as Brady and Anna discuss all the upcoming events tied around Louisiana's most unique holiday on this special episode of Louisiana’s Playground. Events start on Feb. 11 and run through Mardi Gras Day on Feb. 21. Learn more about Mardi Gras and its schedule of events by visiting swlamardigras.com.
13m Feb 08, 2023
13m
10: Celebrate Mardi Gras
Guest David Faulk, the director of the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Louisiana’s premiere festival, Mardi Gras! The trio discusses the roots of Mardi Gras and how the Lake Area promotes a family-friendly celebration. From the Mardi Gras Balls to the parades and king cake, listen for the best ways to join in on the fun!
33m Feb 01, 2023
33m
9: Celebrating Black Artists
Guest Dr. William Mayo, a board member for the Black Heritage Gallery joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the gallery’s impact on Southwest Louisiana culture. The Black Heritage Gallery is a free-to-the-public rotating art exhibit that focuses on discovering and nurturing African American artists through all stages of their careers.
32m Jan 18, 2023
32m
SPECIAL EPISODE: Chuck Eats Week
Chuck Eats Restaurant Week is nearly upon us as Brady and Anna discuss all the deals and discounts and some of their favorites, you’ll see on this Louisiana’s Playground special episode. The duo dishes on all the local restaurants that are lending their local flavor to Chuck Eats from January 20-29.
12m Jan 12, 2023
12m
8: Just Imagine SWLA
Guest Sara Judson, the liaison for the Just Imagine SWLA project, joins hosts Brady and Anna on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss what Just Imagine will mean for the future of Lake Charles. The project encompasses new amenities and businesses coming to the Lake Area, a new housing district, a focus on building up the Cameron coastline, an improvement to the local college and university district...
41m Jan 04, 2023
41m