Retire Southern with James Lewis

On the Retire Southern podcast, host James Lewis shares authentic experiences and meaningful connections from the heart of the American South. From chefs and athletes to business leaders and entertainers, get ready to meet the people who leave lasting impressions on those they encounter. Listen to new episodes every other Monday to discover and revel in the tales of these inspirational Southern Characters who live life with purpose and follow their compass. The message is simple—Don’t Wait for Retirement to Start Living!

The Kids Can Fish Cast 09/08/2025

The Kids Can Fish Cast Tom Lewis, founder of the Kids Can Fish Foundation, joins Retire Southern to share how one moment with his daughter turned into a thriving nonprofit helping kids fall in love with fishing. From coast-to-coast camps to the high-stakes Running of the Bulls Charity Surf Redfish Tournament, this episode explores how generosity, mentorship, and family shaped a mission to break down barriers for young anglers of all backgrounds. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/38102455

Retire Southern Season 1 Trailer 07/17/2025

Retire Southern Season 1 Trailer Neil "Hondo" Williamson the legendary voice of the Georgia Bulldog radio network, Gregg Russell of Harbour Town Sea Pines Plantation, chef and restaurateur Ford Fry, Cooper Manning of Fox NFL Sunday's "Manning Hour", Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth and so much more. Check out Season 1 of the Retire Southern podcast for authentic experiences and meaningful connections from the heart of the American South. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/37436840

Kevin Joseph: In the Raw (Lab) 06/30/2025

Kevin Joseph: In the Raw (Lab) Kevin Joseph isn’t just serving oysters—he’s serving up transformation. In this episode of Retire Southern, James and Amanda dive into Raw Lab, a 12-seat experimental dining experience in Charleston that challenges guests to slow down, engage every sense, and discover something new about food and themselves. From caviar rituals and choreographed courses to stories of resilience and reinvention, this conversation peels back the layers behind one of Charleston’s most unforgettable food experiences. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/37201710

Ms. André Prince: The Matriarch of Nashville Hot Chicken 05/19/2025

Ms. André Prince: The Matriarch of Nashville Hot Chicken Nashville’s culinary legend Ms. André Prince joins Retire Southern to share the spicy story behind Prince’s Hot Chicken. From its origins as “revenge chicken” to its worldwide reputation, Ms. Prince reflects on family legacy, food culture, and how she built an empire—without even knowing how to cook. Now in her late 70s, she’s passing the torch while holding tight to her community roots. Listen in for wit, wisdom, and a little heat. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/36622185

Fred LeBlanc: Meet the Soul Behind the Mouth 04/21/2025

Fred LeBlanc: Meet the Soul Behind the Mouth Fred LeBlanc, drummer and frontman of Cowboy Mouth, joins Retire Southern to talk about his wild journey through the music industry—from trash can drums and New Orleans chaos to packed festival stages and decades of electric live shows. Hear how a punk rock spirit, a passion for people, and a commitment to joy have shaped one of the South’s most iconic bands. It’s loud, it’s personal, and it’s everything you'd expect from Fred. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/36238175

Commander’s Palace: A Master Class in Hospitality with Ti Adelaide Martin 04/07/2025

Commander’s Palace: A Master Class in Hospitality with Ti Adelaide Martin Hospitality at Commander’s Palace isn’t a job description—it’s a full-body commitment to excellence. In this episode, Ti Adelaide Martin shares how her team delivers that level of care day after day, from the first phone call to the final course. She also opens up about co-founding NOCHI, New Orleans’ first dedicated culinary and hospitality training insitution, now partnered with brands like Aramark, Sodexo Live! and Viking River Cruises. Ti’s passion for people, paired with her relentless pursuit of great service, has set a new bar—not just in New Orleans, but across the industry. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/36004230

Blair Crimmins: The March of the Hookers 03/24/2025

Blair Crimmins: The March of the Hookers Blair Crimmins didn’t just find his sound—he fought for it. From fronting rock bands in Atlanta to leading a full seven-piece ragtime jazz ensemble, Blair’s journey has been anything but conventional. After a life-altering accident and some soul searching, he rediscovered the sounds of New Orleans jazz and Dixieland swing and embraced a vision that defies industry norms. Catch this episode of Retire Southern for an exclusive look into Blair’s relentless pursuit of authenticity, the challenges of bringing vintage jazz to modern audiences, and the fun story of how music led him to his wife, Davi Crimmins. Tune in for a conversation about passion, reinvention, and the power of a good horn section. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/35804690

Chef Conner Hinderks: Greenville's Little Secret 03/10/2025

Chef Conner Hinderks: Greenville's Little Secret Chef Conner Hinderks is bringing bold flavors and big ideas to Greenville, SC, with his pop-up residency kitchen, Little Secret. From his early days in Kansas City to honing his craft in New Orleans, Conner shares how his culinary journey led him to create accessible, high-quality food without the fine-dining price tag. Hear how he’s building a name for himself through community partnerships, creative brunch menus, and a vision for a future brick-and-mortar. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/35580730

John Lavin: The Hottest Innkeeper in Appalachia 02/10/2025

John Lavin: The Hottest Innkeeper in Appalachia Hear the incredible story of John Lavin, the visionary owner of the historic Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast in Georgia. From his Southern upbringing split between Lafayette, LA and Chattanooga, TN, to a brief acting career in NYC + Hollywood and a passion for curating guest experiences, John shares how he found his true calling as an innkeeper - starting with going viral on TikTok showing tourists around New Orleans. Learn about the rich history of the 1890 Victorian inn, the unique guest experiences he curates, and the magic of Blue Ridge, a mountain town full of charm and adventure. Whether you're dreaming of a getaway or seeking inspiration for your own creative pursuit, this episode of Retire Southern is a story you won’t soon forget! /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/35167905

Cooper Manning: Growing Up Manning 01/27/2025

Cooper Manning: Growing Up Manning What’s it like to grow up as the eldest Manning brother in a family of football legends? Cooper Manning joins Retire Southern to catch up with high school pal and host, James Lewis, to share colorful stories of growing up in New Orleans with his father, Archie, and brothers, Peyton and Eli. From hilarious memories of his intense basketball coach, Coach Fitz, to afternoons in the Saints locker room with his dad, Cooper offers a unique glimpse into his childhood filled with sports and family traditions. Cooper also reveals how a life-changing diagnosis ended his football career at Ole Miss and forced him to pivot toward new passions, including broadcast journalism and entrepreneurial success with AJ Capital Partners. Along the way, he reflects on raising his own children—May, Arch, and Heid—and watching them carry on the Manning tradition in their own way. This episode is packed with humor, resilience, and the true life stories that make Cooper Manning one of a kind. Don’t miss it! /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/34957730

Dean Crowe and the Rally Foundation: Pioneering Childhood Cancer Advocacy & Research 01/13/2025

Dean Crowe and the Rally Foundation: Pioneering Childhood Cancer Advocacy & Research The Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research’s CEO and Founder, Dean Crowe, shares how she advocates for groundbreaking change in pediatric cancer funding. What began as a grassroots effort in the South has grown into a nationwide movement, securing over $35 million for research grants and $223 million in Department of Defense funding for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancers. By highlighting the Foundation's impact through compelling stories of Rally Kids and the power of community, Dean demonstrates the life-changing effects of advocacy and financial stewardship to reshape the fight against childhood cancer. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/34791950

The 'Why' Behind Retire Southern 01/09/2025

The 'Why' Behind Retire Southern /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/34791695

Bob Kesling: The Legendary Voice of the Tennessee Vols 12/16/2024

Bob Kesling: The Legendary Voice of the Tennessee Vols For more than 20 years, Bob Kesling has been the “Voice of the Vols” at the University of Tennessee, narrating iconic moments in college athletics. Bob reflects on his incredible journey from a walk-on fullback at the University of Tennessee to a celebrated broadcaster and mentor. He shares stories of unforgettable games, countless personalities, and the impact of mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and his dedication to community service. As he prepares for retirement after the 2024-2025 basketball season, Bob discusses his plans for the future, his family legacy, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the most enduring figures in Tennessee sports history! /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/34424200

Chef Ford Fry: Building a Culinary Empire on Southern Values 12/02/2024

Chef Ford Fry: Building a Culinary Empire on Southern Values In this episode of Retire Southern, James Lewis sits down with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Ford Fry to explore his journey from growing up in Houston, to culinary school, to building a culinary empire with over 20 restaurants in seven cities across five states. Ford shares how his Southern roots and family travel experiences shaped his passion for food, leading to nationally recognized restaurants like The Optimist, Superica, and Little Sparrow in Atlanta, GA. He discusses his leadership philosophy at Rocket Farm Restaurants, emphasizing teamwork, empowerment, and adaptability in the ever-changing hospitality industry. Tune in to hear about his future plans, including new restaurant expansions, and how he continues to innovate while honoring Southern traditions. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/34191890

Microwins: Finding Big Purpose through Small Victories with Daron K. Roberts 11/18/2024

Microwins: Finding Big Purpose through Small Victories with Daron K. Roberts In this live audience episode of Retire Southern, James Lewis hosts Daron K. Roberts, a former Harvard Law graduate turned NFL coach, bestselling author, and keynote speaker. They discuss Daron’s unique journey, his new book Microwins, and his philosophy on breaking big goals into small, achievable steps. With insights on family, resilience, and redefining success, Daron’s story inspires listeners to embrace life’s twists and stay true to their purpose. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/33923232

Gregg Russell: The Pied Piper of Harbour Town 11/04/2024

Gregg Russell: The Pied Piper of Harbour Town Legendary Hilton Head musician Gregg Russell joins Retire Southern for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into performing under the Liberty Oak at Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island, SC. Gregg shares stories from his remarkable career, from his start as a Disney performer to becoming a beloved figure in the community. He talks about his passion for connecting with audiences, the founding of his charity Hilton Head Heroes, and the recent release of his Apple TV+ documentary, The Gregg Russell Story: If This Old Tree Could Talk. Tune in for heartwarming insights into Gregg's enduring legacy. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/33745277

Southern Gothic: Exploring the South’s Most Infamous Hauntings, Legends, and Folklore 10/07/2024

Southern Gothic: Exploring the South’s Most Infamous Hauntings, Legends, and Folklore Brandon Schexnayder, the talented creator of the acclaimed Southern Gothic podcast, joins our host James Lewis this week on Retire Southern. With over 200 episodes, Southern Gothic blends meticulously researched Southern history with eerie, haunted tales, captivating listeners with every story. Brandon shares personal anecdotes about his family’s 200-year history in New Orleans, his love for Southern folklore, and the details for his upcoming live performance in Nashville. Tune in for a peek behind the scenes at recounting haunted history, authentic storytelling, and Southern roots! Live Event Link: https://www.southerngothicmedia.com/live /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/33320272

Nola Bred, Nola Fed: An Interview with Ralph Brennan 09/23/2024

Nola Bred, Nola Fed: An Interview with Ralph Brennan Ralph Brennan’s name and family are synonymous with New Orleans cuisine after owning and operating iconic restaurants like Brennan’s (originators of Bananas Foster), Napoleon’s House, and more. In this episode, Ralph takes us behind the scenes of his culinary empire, describing everything from his first job delivering potatoes to studying in the south of France and rescuing and reviving the family restaurant. He’s not just serving up meals, but living true family tradition. Ralph opens up about the personal stories, challenges, and deep roots in New Orleans that have shaped his journey. Tune in to feast on a conversation focused on family, French Quarter culture, and being a “house of yes.” /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/33106072

A Damn Good Dawg: Neil “Hondo” Williamson 08/26/2024

A Damn Good Dawg: Neil “Hondo” Williamson Today we welcome University of Georgia’s broadcasting legend, Neil “Hondo” Williamson, to the show! With over 47 years in broadcasting, Hondo has become an integral part of UGA’s Game Day, hosting multiple broadcasts per game, along with Bulldogs Live with Coach Smart. Beyond the stadium, Hondo juggles a day job at Cox Media Group, where he excels in sales and marketing across several radio stations, including WSB Radio. Despite his busy weekdays, his Football Saturdays are fully dedicated to the Bulldogs! Hondo offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the world of sports broadcasting and shares personal stories, from meeting his wife on a 94Q (later Star94) booze cruise to his striking family connection with a Georgia nonprofit that has boots on the ground fighting the opioid crisis. Tune in to hear Hondo discuss his passion for broadcasting, supporting his family, and especially his love for Georgia Football. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves a good Southern Character, especially if they’re a Bulldog! /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/32600567

From Mamaw’s Biscuits to Blackberry Farm and Beyond: Chef David Rule’s Journey 07/29/2024

From Mamaw’s Biscuits to Blackberry Farm and Beyond: Chef David Rule’s Journey Get ready to travel down memory lane with David Rule as he candidly shares his culinary journey with Retire Southern. David’s career began in high school, igniting a lifelong passion for the restaurant industry and creating a story of persistence, creativity, and a deep appreciation for quality ingredients. Beginning with the smell of his grandmother’s fresh sausage and biscuits on summer mornings at Lake Tansi and the right place, right time connections he’s made over the years, David’s approach to cooking and hospitality honors his Southern roots. David credits Blackberry Farm as his informal culinary school where he forged deep mentorships and a can-learn attitude which he carried forward to his latest venture: Mountain Hospitality Concepts—featuring three unique restaurants in downtown Sevierville. Join Retire Southern to learn about Chef David Rule’s restaurant career, the importance of strong mentorship, and how he combines family tradition, culinary roots, and a commitment to giving back to create a true feeling of hospitality. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/32292837

Randy Livingston: Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Basketball 07/01/2024

Randy Livingston: Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Basketball In this inspiring episode of 'Southern Character,' we explore the remarkable journey of Randy Livingston, a true Southern basketball legend. From his early days as a high school prodigy in Louisiana to his influential role as a coach, Randy's story is a testament to the grit and grace that define the Southern spirit. As part of Retire Southern's mission to celebrate the unique charm and vibrant life of the South, this episode delves into how Randy’s dedication to mentoring young athletes extends beyond the court, enriching lives and fostering community ties. Tune in to discover how Randy Livingston embodies the resilience and communal values celebrated across the Southeast, leaving a lasting impact on the world of basketball and the hearts of those he mentors. /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/31956482

The Forgotten Coast with Team Chaos 07/01/2024

The Forgotten Coast with Team Chaos In this inaugural episode "Team Chaos," dive into the blended family adventures of James and Amanda Lewis. From tying the knot in 2019 to navigating life with six kids and two dogs, they share candid stories of chaos and connection. Discover how they balance family dynamics with humor and love, and find inspiration in their journey through the unique challenges and joys of a large, blended family. Join us as we explore the lively and heartfelt world of Team Chaos! /episode/index/show/a19cb0be-7d92-4018-9194-6cb203b8b8a4/id/31956627

Retire Southern with James Lewis

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