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Pelican Briefs
by Etosha McGee and Charles Miller
Join New Orleans natives Etosha McGee – a sharp-witted Capricorn with big opinions – and Dr. Charles Miller – an urban studies and sociology professor with a passion for spirited debates – as this millennial duo dives into Louisiana's hottest headlines and New Orleans's most talked-about topics and controversies. From politics and culture to economic development and beyond, Pelican Briefs delivers fresh perspectives on the Pelican State's most pressing matters, all with a local flair and a dose of sassy banter.
Episodes
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The Future of Bywater: Inside New Orleans’ Massive Redevelopment
Charles Miller is a political analyst and co-host of Pelican Briefs. Alongside Etosha McGee, we break down the long-awaited redevelopment of the Bywater Naval Base, one of New Orleans’ most notorious blighted properties. We get into the history of the site, why past redevelopment efforts kept...
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The Fight to Preserve Louisiana French Culture
Nous Foundation focuses on preserving and promoting Louisiana’s French heritage through cultural programming, education, and the arts. On this episode of Pelican Briefs, hosts Etosha McGee and Charles Miller dive into the work of the foundation and Etosha’s experience serving on its board,...
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Why Old Gretna’s New Brewpub Project Is So Controversial
Etosha McGee and Charles Miller are the hosts of Pelican Briefs, where we break down the stories shaping Louisiana and the New Orleans region. We take a closer look at Old Gretna on the West Bank, exploring how this historic riverfront area is evolving as new businesses, restaurants, and housing...
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The Louisiana Legislative Session Is Back — Here’s What Could Happen
Etosha McGee and Charles Miller are the hosts of Pelican Briefs, where we break down the political stories shaping Louisiana. This conversation focuses on the upcoming Louisiana Legislative Session and the bills we expect to dominate the conversation at the Capitol. We discuss the potential push...
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Is North Baton Rouge Finally Getting the Investment It Deserves?
Etosha McGee and Charles Miller are the hosts of Pelican Briefs, and they break down what’s happening in Baton Rouge—specifically the long-awaited redevelopment of North Baton Rouge. We dig into the significance of a new $50 million mixed-use development called The Boulevard (BLVD), what it means...
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Is New Orleans East the Key to the City’s Future?
Etosha McGee and Charles Miller are the hosts of Pelican Briefs, and this week, we break down the future of New Orleans East. We dig into the promises made during the recent mayoral race around revitalization, redevelopment, and long-overdue investment in one of the city’s most overlooked yet...
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Celebrate Canal! Coalition and the Future of Canal Street in New Orleans
Celebrate Canal! Coalition is a resident-driven initiative working to reimagine Canal Street as a place that truly serves the people who live and work in New Orleans. We break down how this grassroots coalition formed, why past revitalization efforts fell short, and what makes this approach...
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New Orleans’ New Mayor Helena Moreno and the City’s Next Chapter
Helena Moreno is the newly elected Mayor of New Orleans, and we break down what her first few weeks in office are signaling for the city. We talk through what she’s inheriting from the previous administration, including the budget deficit, public works challenges, and long standing infrastructure...
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How Community Colleges Are Reshaping Louisiana’s Workforce
Community colleges in Louisiana are doing far more than most people realize, and we’re breaking down why they matter now more than ever. This week, we lean on Charles’s perspective as a professor at Nunez Community College to unpack how schools like Nunez and Delgado are expanding access,...
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Why New Orleans’ First Traditional Public School in 20 Years Is Struggling
Leah Chase School is New Orleans’ first traditional public school run by the Orleans Parish School Board in nearly 20 years, and its early struggles have sparked a much bigger conversation. We break down why the school is facing declining enrollment and financial challenges, and why those issues...
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Gayle Benson and the Future of the New Orleans Pelicans
Gayle Benson is the owner of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans, and this episode breaks down what her leadership means for the future of professional sports in New Orleans. We dig into growing concerns around the Pelicans’ performance, recent front-office decisions, and the...
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What Xavier's New Medical School Could Mean For Healthcare in Louisiana
Xavier University of Louisiana is launching a new medical school in partnership with Ochsner Health, and we break down why this is a major moment for higher education, healthcare equity, and economic development in Louisiana. Etosha and Charles dig into what this partnership means for the city…
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Can 50 Cent Revitalize Shreveport?
50 Cent is becoming one of the most powerful private players in downtown Shreveport. We break down how Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has quietly acquired more than 20 properties, signed ultra-low-cost leases with the city, and laid out a long-term vision to bring G-Unit Productions, studios, and a...
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How UL Lafayette's Budget Crisis Is Impacting the University
We're back with an update on the UL Lafayette budget crisis. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is facing major financial and leadership shifts, and we’re breaking down exactly what’s happening. We revisit the university’s dramatic budget deficit reduction—from $25 million to $2…
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Major Setbacks in NOLA River District Development
Charles and Etosha break down the latest twists in the River District development. We revisit the original plans, what’s actually been built, and why the project has stalled, including litigation, missed deadlines, lost tenants, and RDN’s sudden decision to pull out. We talk through how Shell’s…
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Archdiocese Bankruptcy Update: $230M Settlement For Abuse Survivors
Call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453 or visit their website for more resources and to report child abuse or DM for help. For adult survivors of child abuse, help is available at ascasupport.org. The Archdiocese of New Orleans is facing one of the largest clergy abuse…
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The Michelin Guide Comes to New Orleans
We break down the Michelin Guide’s debut in the American South, how a tire company became the global standard for fine dining, and what the first New Orleans results mean. We cover the big wins and surprises: Emeril’s earning the region’s only two-star rating, Saint Germain and Zasu landing one...
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Governor Landry's Push for the National Guard in Louisiana Cities
President Trump’s recent decision to deploy troops into U.S. cities has sparked nationwide debate, and Louisiana may be next. We break down what’s really happening, why Governor Landry has requested federal funds to deploy the Louisiana National Guard, and what it means for New Orleans, Baton...
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What Does UNO's Return to the LSU System Mean for the University?
The University of New Orleans is making headlines after officially moving from the University of Louisiana System back to the LSU System. We sit down to unpack what this shift really means for the university, its students, and the city it serves. Charles breaks down UNO’s complex history, from…
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UL Lafayette's $25 Million Budget Deficit Explained
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is facing a $25 million budget deficit and we’re unpacking what’s really going on behind the numbers. Etosha, a proud UL alum, and Charles break down how a university with record freshman enrollment still ended up in financial trouble. From leadership...
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The Last 90 Days of Mayor LaToya Cantrell
Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s time in office is coming to an end, and we’re breaking down her final 90 days as New Orleans prepares for new leadership. From federal indictments and travel controversies to unfinished infrastructure and budget deadlines, we take a hard look at what the mayor should stop...
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The First 100 Days: What We Want to See From the Next Mayor of New Orleans
Helena Moreno, Royce Duplessis, and Oliver Thomas are the frontrunners in New Orleans’ upcoming mayoral election—and we’re breaking down what’s at stake. With less than ten days to go, we dive into the numbers, the race dynamics, and what the next mayor’s first 100 days should look like for our...
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The History of New Orleans East
Today, Charles shares his work as a PhD in Urban Studies who conducted extensive research on the history and development of New Orleans East. We explore the East's rise as a suburban hub, its decline due to economic and social factors, and the ongoing challenges it faces. Charles explains how his...
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Preserving Louisiana's French Heritage
Louisiana’s rich French heritage is taking center stage. We're diving into the historical and cultural significance of French in our state, tracing its journey from colonial times to modern preservation efforts. We explore pivotal moments like the 1921 ban on French education, its 1974 repeal…
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Tackling Louisiana's Housing and Insurance Crises
Today, we dive into the housing and insurance crises affecting Louisiana. As homeowners and renters, we explore the root causes of these challenges, including skyrocketing housing costs, gentrification, and the devastating impacts of climate-related disasters. We discuss how these issues are...
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Shreveport's Time to Shine
Shreveport is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we’re diving into what it means for Louisiana. From 50 Cent’s massive investment in G-Unit Studios, making it the second-largest Black-owned production studio in the U.S., to a $75 million state-of-the-art government building, Shreveport…
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Federal Funds Flowing Into Louisiana
Louisiana is at a crossroads when it comes to infrastructure. Today, we dive into the state’s infrastructure challenges and the transformative impact of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment Act. We discuss Senator Bill Cassidy’s key role in securing $1.2 trillion in federal funding, which is...
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Super Bowl LIX Preparations in New Orleans
Please note the season 2 episodes of Pelican Briefs were filmed prior to the New Year’s Day terrorist attack that occurred in New Orleans. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families and the entire city of New Orleans as we come together to heal after this tragic and senseless act of...
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Tackling Population Decline in Louisiana with Rep. Tammy Phelps
Tammy Phelps is a Louisiana State Representative from Shreveport, joining us to discuss Louisiana's ongoing population decline. We dive into the key factors driving people, especially Millennials and Gen Z, to leave the state, including job market challenges, lack of investment in education, and...
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Pelican Pop-Ins - Inside HNOC's Captive State exhibit with Eric Seiferth
Eric Seiferth is a curator and historian at the Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC), and he joins us on this Pelican Briefs Pop-In to dive into the powerful exhibit Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration. We explore how Louisiana's 300-year history of slavery…
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Pelican Pop-Ins - Louisiana Legislative Session Impacts with Rep. Mandie Landry
This episode recaps what we covered in Episode 2, Louisiana Legislative Session," if you missed it, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/69ChiR3CQumh8pcjRf2Q6A?si=78730e53440b4428 Mandie Landry is a Louisiana State Representative for District 91, and she joins us on Pelican Briefs to…
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Pelican Pop-Ins - Developing Canal Street with Davon Barbour
This episode recaps what we covered in Episode 4, "Revitalization of Canal Street," if you missed it, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2Ej504tULog8bDQsV6muCc?si=90a3a9d719e64138 Davon Barbour is the President and CEO of the New Orleans Downtown Development District (DDD), and he…
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Pelican Pop-Ins - State Influence in New Orleans with Kaare Johnson
This episode recaps what we covered in Episode 3, "Jeff Landry Administration and New Orleans", if you missed it, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0MSdab2sofbwWDVqmQg4Pz?si=b1dbfa2641714f91 Kaare Johnson, a seasoned radio and TV talk show host for "The Neutral Ground," joins us on...
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Archdiocese of New Orleans
Welcome to Pelican Briefs, your go-to podcast for diving deep into the most pressing issues in Louisiana. In this episode, hosts Charles Miller and Etosha McGee tackle a deeply serious and sensitive topic: the ongoing investigation into the Archdiocese of New Orleans and the alarming allegations…
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Population Decline
Welcome to another episode of Pelican Briefs with your hosts, Charles Miller and Etosha McGee! In this episode, we dive deep into the pressing issue of Louisiana's population decline. Join us as we explore the various factors driving this trend, including inadequate education and healthcare…
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Canal Street Revitalization
In this episode of Pelican Briefs, we delve into the fascinating history and future of Canal Street in New Orleans. Join our co-hosts, Etosha McGee and Charles Miller, as we explore Canal Street's transformation from a historic shopping mecca to its current state and the ongoing efforts to...
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Jeff Landry Administration and New Orleans
Welcome back to Pelican Briefs! In this episode, co-hosts Etosha McGee and Charles Miller dive deep into the unique significance of New Orleans as a vibrant blue city in a predominantly red state. We discuss the new governor, Jeff Landry, and his administration's impact on our beloved city. Join…
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Louisiana Legislative Session
Welcome to another episode of Pelican Briefs! Join our co-hosts, Etosha McGee and Charles Miller, as we dive into the hot topics of the current Louisiana legislative session. This episode, we're dissecting three key bills that could significantly impact our state: House Bill 608, the Women's…
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River District Development in New Orleans
Welcome to the Pelican Briefs Podcast! In our debut episode, hosts Etosha McGee and Charles Miller dive into the exciting and controversial developments surrounding New Orleans' River District. In this episode, we provide an in-depth look at the transformation of the River District, an…
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Pelican Briefs Trailer
Pelican Briefs is a weekly episodic podcast where Etosha McGee and Charles Miller discuss current events in Louisiana and New Orleans through the lens of an Urban Studies professor and a local Capricorn with big opinions. They dish about the hottest topics related to contemporary politics,...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join New Orleans natives Etosha McGee – a sharp-witted Capricorn with big opinions – and Dr. Charles Miller – an urban studies and sociology professor with a passion for spirited debates – as this millennial duo dives into Louisiana's hottest headlines and New Orleans's most talked-about topics and controversies. From politics and culture to economic development and beyond, Pelican Briefs delivers fresh perspectives on the Pelican State's most pressing matters, all with a local flair and a dose of sassy banter.
HOSTED BY
Etosha McGee and Charles Miller
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Pelican Briefs have?
Pelican Briefs currently has 40 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Pelican Briefs about?
Join New Orleans natives Etosha McGee – a sharp-witted Capricorn with big opinions – and Dr. Charles Miller – an urban studies and sociology professor with a passion for spirited debates – as this millennial duo dives into Louisiana's hottest headlines and New Orleans's most talked-about topics and...
How often does Pelican Briefs release new episodes?
Pelican Briefs has 40 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Pelican Briefs?
You can listen to Pelican Briefs on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Pelican Briefs?
Pelican Briefs is created and hosted by Etosha McGee and Charles Miller.
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