Mississippi Happenings
by MS Happenings
MS Happenings is your go-to source for political news and events that matter to Mississippians. Hosted by Jim Newman and David Olds, this weekly podcast fills the gap left by traditional news coverage, ensuring that all corners of the Magnolia State—North Mississippi, the Delta, the Coast, and beyond—stay informed.We tackle the kitchen table issues that impact everyday life, from legislative decisions to local policies affecting communities statewide. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, Mississippi Happenings brings you the news you need, without the out-of-state distractions.Join us each week for insightful discussions, in-depth analysis, and a fresh perspective on the issues shaping Mississippi’s future. Stay informed. Stay engaged.Subscribe now to never miss an episode!
Episodes
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4th CD Democratic Candidate Jeffery Hulum III discusses his vision for Mississippians
4th Congressional Democratic Candidate Jeffery Hulum discusses his vision for Mississippians. He speaks with passion, with knowledge and solutions. Jeffrey shares insights on how some regions, particularly outside urban centers, are classified as healthcare deserts. Residents often lack access to...
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Mississippi Politics with Jamie Franks
This discussion goes beyond mere political commentary; it’s a rallying cry for accountability and action. As Mississippi faces one of its most critical election seasons, understanding these dynamics is essential. Ignoring these insights could mean missing out on the opportunity for change in a...
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A conversation with State Rep and Chairman of the MS Democratic Party Cheikh Taylor
[EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publish] Mississippi is heading into a political and policy crossroads, and Chairman Chuck Taylor says the choices being made now could reshape the state for years. From redistricting battles and Medicaid expansion to data centers, the income tax rollback, and the...
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A conversation with Scott Colom Democratic Candidate for US Senate
We are in the final days of the 2026 midterm elections. Mississippi has become a state in play with Cliff Johnson for Congress and Scott Colom for US Senate. Scott Colom joins David and Jim to discuss corruption in Washington and his plans if elected.
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A Conversation with Malinda Harris Meacham Candidate for Chancery Court Judge DeSoto County, MS
Local elections are just as important as federal and state elections. The mid-term elections are Tuesday November 3rd which also included local elections. In this episode, David talks to Malinda Harris Meacham candidate for Chancery Court Judge in DeSoto County, MS.
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A Conversation with 1st CD Democratic Nominee Cliff Johnson
David and Jim talk to Cliff Johnson the Democratic Nominee for Congress representing the 1st Congressional District.
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Religion and Politics in America Today Part 2 with Robert s. McElvaine
Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Politics with Bob McElvaine A deep dive into the evolving landscape of religion in America. In this episode of the Mississippi Happening Podcast, David Olds speaks with historian and author Robert S. McElvaine about the relationship between religion and...
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Religion and Politics in America Part 2
In this episode of the Mississippi Happening Podcast, David Olds speaks with historian and author Robert S. McElvaine about the relationship between religion and politics in America. The conversation touches on themes from McElvaine's book Grand Theft Jesus and delves into contemporary issues...
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The Horn Lake Community Garden
David discusses food insecurity and how community activist Yolonda Hassell-Rooks is addressing the situation in Horn Lake, Mississippi.
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The Horn Lake Community Garden
David discusses food insecurity and how community activist Yolanda Hassell-Rooks is addressing the problem in Horn Lake, Mississippi.
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Legislative Review with Senator Theresa Isom
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, co-hosts David Olds and Jim Newman break down the latest developments from the Mississippi Legislature following the January 31, 2026 session. The conversation covers major policy debates, legislative priorities, and behind-the-scenes dynamics shaping…
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Inside the System: Addressing Healthcare in Mississippi’s Prisons - Becky Currie
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman sit down with State Representative Becky Currie, Chairwoman of the Mississippi House Corrections Committee, to discuss the urgent challenges facing healthcare in Mississippi’s prison system. From overcrowding and medical...
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Policy in Practice: What HR1 Means for Mississippians with Kathleen O’Beirne
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Kathleen O'Beirne to discuss the implications of federal policies, particularly HR1, on Mississippi families. They explore the effects of tax policy changes, healthcare challenges, education funding cuts, and...
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Policy and Progress: A Conversation with Senator David Blount
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Senator David Blount to discuss critical issues facing Mississippi, particularly focusing on the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and its funding challenges. Senator Blount explains the...
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Revisiting Venezuela: The Latest on Military Actions and Legal Implications
Read the NPR Article Here: https://www.npr.org/2025/10/18/nx-s1-5577941/adm-alvin-holsey-who-was-overseeing-the-venezuelan-boat-strikes-steps-down In this episode, the hosts discuss the recent military actions taken by the U.S. off the coast of Venezuela, exploring the legal, ethical, and…
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Federal Bills, Local Consequences: A Conversation with Kathleen O’Beirne
In this episode, David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the implications of HR1, the 'Big Beautiful Bill', with guest Kathleen O'Beirne. They explore how the bill affects tax policies, Medicaid cuts, and the overall economic landscape in Mississippi. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of grassroots...
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The Cost of Choice: Public Money and Private Schools in Mississippi with Nancy Loome
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the critical issues surrounding public education in Mississippi with guest Nancy Loome, executive director of the Mississippi Parents Campaign. The conversation covers the ongoing debate about the...
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Military Actions in Venezuela: Legal Analysis - Major General Andrew Turley and Admiral Jamie Barnett
In this episode, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with retired military officials Jamie Barnett and Major General Andy Turley to discuss the recent U.S. military actions off the coast of Venezuela. The conversation delves into the command structure of military operations, the legalities...
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Dr. Nathan Shrader - The Volatile State of Politics Today
In this episode of the Mississippi Happening podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the current volatile state of American politics with guest Dr. Nathan Schrader. They explore the challenges of governance, the lack of effective leadership from the Democratic Party, and the impact of...
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Same Ole' Mississippi - Congressional Districts, Voter Turnout and Early Voting in MS
"Potholes are not political." In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss various pressing issues facing Mississippi, including legislative challenges, voter rights, and the importance of public education. They emphasize the need for community engagement and...
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Danita Munday - Navigating Special Education in Mississippi
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and guest Danita Munday discuss the pressing issues surrounding special education in Mississippi. They explore the challenges faced by students with disabilities, the implications of federal reports, and the potential consequences of...
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Mississippi Happenings - A Progressive Voice for Mississippi
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage in a candid discussion about the wealth gap in America, the implications of oligarchies, and the importance of public education. They explore the challenges facing Mississippi's education system, including…
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Larry Rubin - The Fight for Civil Rights: Lessons from the Past
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with civil rights activist Larry Rubin to discuss the implications of eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, drawing parallels to historical segregation. They explore the...
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Brady Davis - Uncovering Chickasaw History
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss a range of topics, starting with a bizarre news story about a couple selling 'golden tickets to heaven.' The conversation then shifts to the rich history of the Chickasaw tribe in Mississippi, featuring insights…
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The Mississippi Parents Campaign: A Voice for Parents - Nancy Loome
In this episode, David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the critical issues surrounding public education in Mississippi with Nancy Loome, the executive director of the Mississippi Parents Campaign. They explore the challenges facing public education, the importance of parental involvement, the impact…
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State Representative Becky Currie - Healthcare Challenges in Mississippi's Correctional Facilities
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, host David Olds speaks with House Representative Becky Currie about the state of Mississippi prisons, healthcare challenges, and the need for reform. Currie shares her journey into the corrections system, her experiences visiting Parchman…
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Cliff Johnson - Reforming Justice in Mississippi
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Cliff Johnson, director of the MacArthur Justice Center, discussing the center's mission to reform the Mississippi criminal legal system. They explore the implications of recent judicial rulings…
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Exploring Mississippi's Challenges and Opportunities - David Olds and Jim Newman
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman reflect on various critical issues affecting Mississippi, including education funding, healthcare, political activism, and the importance of historical awareness. They discuss the implications of prioritizing space...
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Trump and DIME - Jamie Barnett
In this episode, David Olds and Jim Newman engage with retired Rear Admiral Jamie Barnett to discuss the complexities of national security, the DIME framework (Diplomatic, Information, Military, Economic), and the implications of the Trump administration's policies on these areas. They explore…
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Empowering Grassroots Activism in Mississippi - Jamie Rebentisch and Mary Jane Meadows
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Mary Jane Meadows and Jamie Rebentisch from Indivisible Northeast Mississippi. They discuss the grassroots activism efforts of their organization, which focuses on advocating for social justice,...
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Virginia Tolliver and Lovie West - A Mississippi Segregation Story
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings Podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage in a profound conversation with Lovie West and Virginia Tolliver, two women who share their personal experiences growing up during segregation in Mississippi. They discuss the impact of segregation on...
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Juvenile Crime and Education in Mississippi - Scott Colom
In this conversation, David Olds and Jim Newman discuss juvenile crime and education in Mississippi with District Attorney Scott Colom. They explore the challenges facing public education, the importance of community support, and the role of employment in preventing crime. Colom emphasizes the…
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Education and Economic Growth in Mississippi - Governor Ronnie Musgrove
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage in a comprehensive discussion with former Governor Ronnie Musgrove about the pressing issues facing Mississippi, particularly in the realms of public education, economic development, healthcare, and the...
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Kyra Roby - Taxation and Public Services in Mississippi
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the implications of eliminating the Mississippi state income tax with guest Kyra Roby, the policy director for One Voice. The conversation covers the importance of taxes in funding public services, the...
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Desegregation and Public Education in Mississippi - MS Happenings
This conversation explores the history and impact of desegregation in Mississippi public schools, focusing on the legacy of Jack Reed Sr. and the community's efforts to integrate schools. The discussion highlights the challenges faced during this process, the role of education and sports in...
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Healthcare and Medicaid: A Missed Opportunity - Representative Robert Johnson
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Mississippi House Representative Robert Johnson to discuss pressing issues in the state, including redistricting, the recent legislative session, the elimination of the state income tax, and the Public…
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Deborah Williams - Understanding the Importance of Poll Workers
In this episode, David Olds, Jim Newman and Dr. Deborah Williams discuss the political landscape in DeSoto County, Mississippi, focusing on upcoming elections, voter registration, and the importance of civic engagement. Dr. Williams emphasizes the need for community involvement, the role of poll...
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Ty Pinkins - Mississippi's Income Tax Dilemma
In this episode, David Olds and Jim Newman discuss pressing issues in Mississippi, including the potential elimination of the state income tax, the impact on public education, and the implications for national security. They are joined by Ty Pinkins, a candidate for the Democratic nomination for...
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Jarvis Dortch – Exploring the Role of ACLU in Mississippi
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Jarvis Dortch, the Executive Director of the ACLU of Mississippi, discussing critical civil rights issues in the state. The conversation covers various topics including police accountability, voting rights,...
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Greta Kemp Martin - Navigating Disability Rights in Mississippi
Summary In this conversation, David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Greta Kemp Martin, the Litigation Director for Disability Rights Mississippi. They discuss various pressing issues affecting Mississippians with disabilities, including education, healthcare, voting rights, the prison system, and...
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Representative Justis Gibbs - The elimination of state income tax raises concerns about funding
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Representative Justis Gibbs to discuss pressing issues in Mississippi, including taxation, public education funding, prison reform, and voter rights. The conversation delves into the implications of eliminating...
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Retired Admiral Jamie Barnett - Diplomacy is not a pickup game
In this episode, David Olds and Jim Newman discuss pressing national security issues with retired Rear Admiral Jamie Barnett. The conversation covers the impact of misinformation and botnets on public perception, the role of AI and cloud technology in military operations, and the importance of…
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Nancy Loome - Mississippi Parents Campaign
In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman discuss the critical issues surrounding public education in Mississippi with Nancy Loome, the executive director of the Mississippi Parents Campaign. They explore the challenges facing public education, the importance of...
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Erica Jones - MS Association of Educators
In this episode of the Mississippi Happenings podcast, hosts David Olds and Erica Jones discuss the pressing issues surrounding public education in Mississippi. They delve into funding challenges, the implications of school choice and vouchers, the Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP)…
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About this show
MS Happenings is your go-to source for political news and events that matter to Mississippians. Hosted by Jim Newman and David Olds, this weekly podcast fills the gap left by traditional news coverage, ensuring that all corners of the Magnolia State—North Mississippi, the Delta, the Coast, and beyond—stay informed.We tackle the kitchen table issues that impact everyday life, from legislative decisions to local policies affecting communities statewide. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, Mississippi Happenings brings you the news you need, without the out-of-state distractions.Join us each week for insightful discussions, in-depth analysis, and a fresh perspective on the issues shaping Mississippi’s future. Stay informed. Stay engaged.Subscribe now to never miss an episode!
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MS Happenings