Beyond Bourbon Street, an Insider's Guide to New Orleans

Beyond Bourbon Street is the podcast where we explore the food, music, places, people and events that make New Orleans unique.

The Essential Guide to New Orleans Jazz Fest 04/17/2024

Haunted New Orleans 04/03/2024

Entrepreneur Róbert LeBlanc 03/09/2024

Things to Do In New Orleans - Spring 2024 02/22/2024

BBS201 02/08/2024

Mardi Gras 2024 with Arthur Hardy - Episode 200 01/27/2024

Listener Questions 01/10/2024

Holidays in New Orleans - EP 198 12/27/2023

Immerse Yourself in New Orleans at Vue Orleans 12/14/2023

Mississippi River Cruise 11/30/2023

Garden District Revisited - Episode 195 11/15/2023

Unleashing the Funk: Big Sam’s Musical Journey – EP 194 11/01/2023

Louisiana Lens - EP 193 10/20/2023

Absinthe - Episode 192 10/04/2023

Absinthe - Episode 192 Absinthe Resurgence: From Ban to Boom - A Conversation with Marielle Songy Have you ever heard the myths surrounding absinthe? Myth #1: Absinthe can make you hallucinate. Myth #2: It was banned for being a dangerous drug. Myth #3: The Green Fairy was a mystical presence associated with absinthe. In this episode, our guest Marielle Songy will reveal the truth behind these intriguing tales and unravel the fascinating history and culture of absinthe. Step into the captivating world of absinthe, where the threads of history intertwine with the allure of a mysterious elixir. Join Marielle Songy as she uncovers the secrets behind the enigmatic Absinthe Frappé, a cocktail that holds the key to New Orleans' vibrant past. With every page turned, immerse yourself in the tales of bartenders and bans, controversies and creativity. Marielle Songy, a food and culture writer from the New Orleans area, found herself captivated by the rich history and cultural significance of absinthe. When approached by LSU Press to write a book for their iconic New Orleans cocktail series, she was drawn to the Absinthe Frappé, a unique cocktail that originated in New Orleans. With a love for absinthe and a desire to delve into its intriguing past, Marielle embarked on a journey to uncover the origins and stories behind this enigmatic spirit. From the invention of the Frappé to the controversies and bans surrounding absinthe, Marielle's research allowed her to explore the deep connections between absinthe, art, and literature. Through her writing, she brings to life the vibrant history and cultural significance of absinthe, inviting readers on a journey of discovery into the world of this beloved and misunderstood spirit. Absinthe has touched so much throughout history, in art and writing and things like that. It has a connection to New Orleans because of its French connections. - Marielle Songy In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the fascinating origins and cultural significance of absinthe, exploring its rich history and the myths that surround this infamous spirit. Uncover the traditional method of serving absinthe, including the intriguing process of looshing and the ritualistic addition of sugar, elevating your absinthe experience to new heights. Dive into the captivating story behind the invention of the absinthe frappé cocktail, a refreshing and popular drink in the late 19th century that will transport you to a bygone era of indulgence. Learn about the pivotal role Ted Breaux played in lifting the absinthe ban, reintroducing this beloved spirit to the United States, and discover the secrets behind his Jade Liqueurs crafted with traditional herbs. Explore the mesmerizing influence of absinthe on art and literature, discovering how famous artists and writers of the past were inspired by this enigmatic drink to create masterpieces that still captivate us today. /episode/index/show/beyondbourbonst/id/28193606

The Dew Drop Inn - Episode 191 09/20/2023

Questions and Answers about New Orleans - Episode 190 09/06/2023

Hubig's Pies - EP 189 08/23/2023

Draining New Orleans - EP 188 08/09/2023

Draining New Orleans - EP 188 Draining New Orleans, with Richard Campanella Discover the hidden tale of New Orleans' battle against water, where an unexpected twist shaped the city's destiny. Journey alongside Richard Campanella as he unravels the secrets of its transformative drainage system, revealing a startling revelation. Brace yourself for a revelation that challenges everything we thought we knew about this historic city. This captivating exploration will leave you questioning the past, present, and future of New Orleans' water management. Geography and Topography's Influence The influential role of topography and geography on drainage strategies in New Orleans was a significant point of discussion. Being positioned below sea level, the city has had to innovate and overcome floods and water management difficulties over time. Accordingly, the understanding and effective handling of the city's unique geographical context is vital for combating current and future water-related issues. Economic and Public Health Motivations Behind the establishment and progression of New Orleans' drainage systems were economic interests and pronounced public health concerns. Disease outbreaks such as the 1878 epidemic and the resulting public health crisis brought to the fore the need for an effective drainage system. In modern times, ensuring efficiency in water management is equally important for supporting the city's infrastructure and maintaining the health and safety of its residents. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the fascinating journey of New Orleans' evolution through its innovative drainage system. Understand how geography and topography have significantly influenced this city's unique drainage design. Listen to the compelling economic and public health motivations behind the efforts to improve New Orleans' drainage systems. Gain insights into how the principle of path dependency influenced the city's decisions regarding its drainage systems. Explore the main challenges and victories of New Orleans' in managing their water systems effectively. Trace the intriguing history and development of the drainage systems in New Orleans. Uncover the remarkable impact of the city's geology on its drainage strategies. Appreciate the decisive role of economic and health factors in the city's quest to improve its drainage networks. Learn about the city's triumphs and troubles in tackling its water management needs. "Let's embrace the path of progress and make the necessary investments in drainage to ensure a better future for generations to come." - Richard Campanella /episode/index/show/beyondbourbonst/id/27625647

Raising a Family in New Orleans: Jan Bologna's Unique Perspective - EP 187 07/26/2023

From the Pitch: Ian McNulty on the Surging Popularity of Rugby in New Orleans 07/12/2023

Uncover New Orleans’ Classic Restaurants and Hidden Gems with Ian McNulty - EP 185 06/28/2023

From Discrimination to Democracy: Women’s Suffrage in New Orleans - EP 184 06/14/2023

Hidden New Orleans - BBS 183 05/31/2023

Hidden New Orleans - BBS 183 Exploring Hidden New Orleans Are you an urban exploration enthusiast? Do you want to uncover lesser-known New Orleans treasures while also preserving their historical significance through respectful exploration? Meet Nathan Norsworthy and Kris Norsworthy, a fearless pair of urban explorers who love to uncover the mysteries of New Orleans’ forgotten spaces. With Nathan’s passion for unearthing the stories behind these hidden spots, and Kris’ talent for photography, they’ve managed to document some of the city’s most fascinating and lesser-known locations. From abandoned hospitals to eerie cemeteries, these two have seen it all, and they’re here to share their adventures with us. Urban Exploration Urban exploration, also known as urbex, involves visiting and investigating abandoned structures and locations. Enthusiasts of this practice value the unique insights and emotional connections that come from discovering the untold stories of these places. Abandoned sites can serve as powerful reminders of the past, provide glimpses into history, and offer a sense of adventure and mystery. I think exploring abandoned places is like going to a museum, just to see it, to walk around, to photograph it. It’s really just for fun. - Nathan Norsworthy Resources Instagram: Homes of New Orleans and Abandoned New Orleans Social media platforms enable urban explorers to share their findings and connect with like-minded individuals. Nathan Norsworthy showcases his photography of New Orleans’ architecture and homes on his Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok accounts called Homes of New Orleans. Kris Norsworthy uses his Instagram account, Abandoned New Orleans, to document his explorations of the city’s abandoned sites. Through their social media presence, Nathan and Kris have reached a broader audience and fostered communities that appreciate the history and beauty of both active and abandoned locations in New Orleans. Here’s some other accounts worth following: /episode/index/show/beyondbourbonst/id/26933796

Pedal Power - Exploring New Orleans by Bike - EP 182 05/17/2023

Free and Budget-Friendly New Orleans Adventures - Episode 181 05/03/2023

BONUS: Flavor Down South - with Vance Vaucresson 04/20/2023

Rudy Rayfield and Flavor Down South - BBS 180 04/20/2023

French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest - BBS 179 04/06/2023

EP 178 - Questions and Answers 03/22/2023

EP 178 - Questions and Answers Today’s episode is a Q&A show with questions from listeners like you. As always questions from our Patreon supporters go to the top of the list, followed by those from our Facebook community. Timestamps Patron Questions 4:38 - What are your favorite venues on Frenchman st. and which are your favorite artists to see in those venues? 7:58 - Where do you recommend to go for a great breakfast in the Quarter and why? Any must-have breakfast menu selections that are classic NOLA? 9:15 - I was wondering if there was a theatrical agency who provides actors in NOLA? I am in need of 2 male actors for a music video. 9:57 - I remember you once gave listeners a heads up that you might be starting up a whisky/bourbon podcast at some point. Any updates on that? 12:03 - What are some New Orleans bands/musicians that you’re following these days? Do any of them have ongoing residencies anywhere in town? 13:41 - What do you think about the current state of affairs in New Orleans? NOLA was hit with the pandemic then, just as things were getting a little better, Hurricane Ida hit. Are things rebounding from a residents perspective? Is the current political leadership up to the challenge? 17:46 - Saba is one of my favorite places to go every time I am in New Orleans (with one of the best Sazeracs in town). That said, are there any other treasures you recommend at places one wouldn’t expect? 19:40 - We love French Quarter Fest; began attending in 2017, and find it more enjoyable than Jazz Fest. We would love to try some of the other festivals; do you have particular favorites that you can suggest? 23:53 - I’d like to hear an update on your travel guide. Do you expect sales will really grow as FQ Fest and Jazz Fest are coming up? Anything specific fans and the community can do to help promote? 26:00 - Is Jazz Fest still worth attending now that the vendor for Crawfish Bread has bowed out? (Just kidding, but I’m crushed and I wonder what you will fill your foil lined pockets with now :-) 28:58 - When is it okay to join a Second Line. There seems to be different etiquette for funerals than for, e.g., weddings in the Quarter… Facebook Questions 33:50 - If you don’t have a brass pass from WWOZ, can you still buy their WWOZ gear at Jazz Fest? 34:53 - You can eat free at any 5 restaurants in Nola for the rest of your life but that’s the only 5 restaurants you can ever eat at again. What’s your 5? 37:10 - What’s your favorite local beer/brewery ? 38:12 - Can you share the best top places that are wheelchair or mobility scooter friendly! Also what is the best transportation for the same, are the streetcars wheelchair accessible? 40:43 - What is your favorite quote about New Orleans? 42:27 - Being a graphic designer, I’ve always wondered why does Rex use the phrase, “The School of Design?” 44:11 - If you could host a roundtable discussion with any five New Orleans celebrities, who would you host and what would you discuss? Think music, art, food and bar scene, sports, politics… 49:01 - Can you suggest the best hotel or area to look for my wife and I as we come for our sixth visit together in a few months? We have loved our stays at Place d’Armes, Bourbon Orleans and Hotel Monteleone, but are ready to stay somewhere outside the FQ. We like a lively bar/touristy/people-watching/easy-to-leave-the-hotel-and-walk-to-something-fun vibe…what are you thoughts? 50:39 - Have you ever taken a cooking or mixology class in New Orleans? Any good recommendations? 51:32 - It’s widely know that Derek Carr went to Chipotle for his first meal as a New Orleans Saint. Bad move, but maybe he just didn’t know any better…If you are tasked with spending one day with Derek Carr, taking him to one breakfast, one lunch, one dinner and one late night activity to acclimate him to his new home, where are you taking him? 55:38 - I’m a big stand up comedy fan. I hear a lot comedians who are from New Orleans like Theo Von and others say it’s not the best comedy scene. Where are the good places for stand up or open mic nights? /episode/index/show/beyondbourbonst/id/26308653

EP 177 - Riding in a Mardi Gras Parade 03/08/2023

Beyond Bourbon Street, an Insider's Guide to New Orleans

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