Retire Southern with James Lewis

Most people think success in music looks like the spotlight. The front man. The headliner. The name on the marquee. But there is another path. One built on preparation, consistency, and being ready when the call comes. In this episode, I sit down with Frank Grocholski, a professional guitarist, session player, and touring musician for Cowboy Mouth, to talk about what it really looks like to build a life in music. From getting his first guitar at three years old to teaching himself by ear off Nirvana, The Beatles, and Metallica to touring the world before he was 20 to stepping on stage at Jazz Fest in front of 30,000 people Frankie's story is not about chasing the spotlight. It is about becoming the guy who gets the call. We talk about the grind, the moments that mattered, and what it means to build a career between airplanes and amplifiers. If you have ever wondered what it really takes to do what you love for a living, this one is for you. Read the full feature here: https://www.retiresouthern.com/retiresouthernpodcast/frankie-g-guitarist-cowboy-mouth-story Read. Watch. Listen. Rooted in the South. Driven by Purpose. Built for Living.

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:afe50263-35d3-4211-a2f5-d4f5c68b79eb-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> What if most of what we call "dining" today… isn't actually dining at all? In this episode of Retire Southern, we sit down with Chef Kevin Joseph of Raw Lab and Blaiss Nowak of Nowak's Steakhouse to explore a new way of thinking about food, hospitality, and human connection. On April 28 in Atlanta, they're bringing that vision to life with EPICureanism at Nowak's. A one-night, immersive culinary experience designed not as a dinner, but as a progression. A conversation. A room built for presence. Because as Kevin puts it: "The delta between eating and dining is discovery." In this episode, we cover: The difference between 21st century dining and a 22nd century culinary philosophy How Raw Lab redefined what a meal can be Why presence is the ultimate luxury in a dining experience The psychology of shared tables, music, and environment What to expect from EPICureanism at Nowak's on April 28 The Experience: EPICureanism at Nowak's This is not a traditional dinner. It's a curated, multi-course experience built around: Oyster Flight Salon de Caviar Land & Sea Sea Salt Social Wine travel throughout Designed to engage, challenge, and connect. This experience unfolds in real time, with every guest moving through it together. No distractions. No separate tables. Just a room built for discovery. Who This Is For This isn't for everyone. And it's not supposed to be. This is for the curious. For people who value presence over routine. For those who believe the best conversations, and the best relationships, are built around a table. Event Details 📍 Nowak's Steakhouse, Atlanta, GA 📅 April 28 🕕 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM 🎟️ Limited seating This is what Life EQ looks like in real time. Some dinners you forget. Others change how you experience everything that comes after. This is one of those. 🎧 Read. Watch. Listen. Full feature  

What if the problem isn't your work… but your alignment? In this episode of the Retire Southern Podcast, James Lewis and his wife Amanda sit down with Callie and Jeff Dauler to explore a question most people avoid. What happens when your life looks right on paper… but feels wrong in practice? From the outside, Callie and Jeff had built successful, visible careers in media. But behind the scenes, something wasn't lining up. And instead of ignoring it, they made a decision most people only talk about. They stepped away. What followed was a complete rethinking of how they approach work, creativity, and life. At the center of that shift is a simple but powerful idea they call the Lily Pad Strategy. You don't jump the whole pond. You move one intentional step at a time. This conversation goes deeper into: Why "success" without alignment creates friction you can't ignore The Lily Pad Strategy and how small moves lead to meaningful change What most people get wrong about podcasting, growth, and audience Why getting the right 10 people matters more than reaching 10,000 The tradeoffs that come with building something that looks successful from the outside This is not a conversation about quitting. It is a conversation about choosing. Choosing clarity over noise. Choosing alignment over expectation. Choosing a life that actually fits. If you have ever felt the tension between where you are and where you want to be, this one will resonate. Jump small. Because that is how you get across the pond.

What if the way you feel every day isn't actually normal? In this episode of the Retire Southern Podcast, James Lewis sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Matthew Campbell to explore a simple but powerful idea. Modern life has drifted away from the conditions humans were designed for. The result is a quiet baseline many people accept without question. Tired. Distracted. A little off. Dr. Campbell breaks this down into five foundational behaviors he calls Our Primal 5. Sunlight. Sleep. Movement. Connection. And what we choose to consume. This is not theory. His workbook and app are built to help people apply these behaviors in a practical way over five weeks. One focus at a time. Real implementation, not just ideas. The conversation goes deeper into: Why your "normal" might actually be misalignment How small changes can create outsized improvements The hidden cost of modern habits and constant stimulation Why behavior leads and feelings follow If you have ever felt off but could not explain why, this conversation will resonate. Start with one. Because momentum builds.

For years, when someone asked where to find the best French dip in Atlanta, the honest answer was Houston's. That changed when Ford Fry launched the French Dip at Bar Blanc in Midtown Atlanta. In this episode of the Retire Southern Podcast, James Lewis sits down with Ford Fry to explore how a simple sandwich became a ritual. From prime rib roasted overnight to dry aged beef infused au jus, from East Coast versus West Coast builds to bottomless beef tallow fries, this is not just a lunch special. It is intention on a plate. But the conversation moves beyond the sandwich. Fry reflects on leadership, responsibility, and what it means to build restaurants that change the lives of the people who work inside them. If you are searching for the best French dip in Atlanta or simply want to understand how ritual builds community, this episode is Life EQ 101. Listen now and experience the French Dip at Bar Blanc.

Napoleon House has never tried to be anything other than what it is. In this episode of the Retire Southern Podcast, James Lewis sits down with Chris Montero, Executive Chef and General Manager of Napoleon House, to explore what it means to care for one of the French Quarter's most enduring neighborhood institutions. An eighth generation New Orleanian, Montero brings his family's traditions into the kitchen every day. His red beans are made without soaking and built on three kinds of pork fat, cooked the same way his grandmother made them. He favors the classic Pimm's Cup served over ice, light and restrained, just as it has been for generations. His connection to Napoleon House is not theoretical. It is lived. The conversation moves through food, cocktails, history, and the responsibility of stewardship. It is a story about loving a place enough to protect it, about honoring history without freezing it in time, and about the people who make an institution feel like it belongs to everyone who walks through the door. Listen to the full episode and read the complete written feature at retiresouthern.com.  

Arnaud's Restaurant has stood in the French Quarter for more than a century, not by chasing trends, but by carrying tradition forward with care. In this episode of the Retire Southern Podcast, James Lewis sits down with owner Archie Casbarian, bartender Christoph Dornemann, Chef de Cuisine Tommy DiGiovanni, and Director of Sales Kaitlin Rodgers to explore what it takes to steward a historic New Orleans institution. The conversation moves through the history of Arnaud's, the French 75 Bar and its hidden tiki influence, classic Creole dishes like soufflé potatoes, Filet Mignon au Poivre, Duck Ellington, and Trout Meuniere, the role of private dining and gathering, and the preservation of Mardi Gras culture through the restaurant's museum. This is a story about consistency, care, and why some places endure for generations. Listen to the full episode and explore the complete written feature at retiresouthern.com.  

In this episode of Retire Southern, James Lewis sits down with Dave Echols, President and General Manager of the Charleston RiverDogs, inside the press box at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park. Dave shares the simple philosophy that has guided nearly two decades of leadership. Fun is good. You will hear how that idea influences everything from staff culture and fan experience to community engagement and trust. The conversation also explores the RiverDogs' role in Charleston beyond baseball, including the powerful moment following the Mother Emanuel tragedy, when city leaders made a simple request. Play the games. Open the gates. This is a thoughtful conversation about joy as strategy, community as responsibility, and why a ballpark can be more than a place to watch a game. Sometimes it becomes a place to heal. Listen to the full episode and explore the complete written feature at retiresouthern.com.

In this episode of Retire Southern, James Lewis travels to the Lowcountry to explore what it really takes to grow oysters the right way. Recorded on the water at Charleston Oyster Farm, this conversation dives into mariculture, stewardship, and the patience required to work in rhythm with tides, weather, and nature itself. You will hear how oyster farming works from seed to harvest, why Charleston oysters reflect the place they are grown, and what it means to build a sustainable operation from the ground up. From navigating years of permitting to delivering oysters to local restaurants just hours after harvest, this episode offers a rare look behind the scenes of a working waterfront. A thoughtful conversation about place, responsibility, and why sometimes the best path forward is learning to grow with the flow. Charleston Oyster Farm Website Book a Tour    

In this episode of Retire Southern, James sits down with Chris Hall, one of the South's most influential hospitality leaders and the co-founder of Unsukay Restaurant Group. From childhood memories shaped around a family dinner table to the intense kitchens that forged his career, Chris shares a story filled with grit, generosity, and the belief that food connects us all. You will hear how Muss & Turners, Local Three, MTH Pizza, and Roshambo came to life, why Chris never wanted to wake up at sixty and wonder what if, and how a tragedy inside their restaurant family sparked the creation of Giving Kitchen, the James Beard Award winning nonprofit that now serves hospitality workers across the country. This conversation explores the heart of Southern dining, the evolution of intentional hospitality spaces like Warhorse and Seahorse, the dishes you absolutely cannot miss at each of his restaurants, and why human connection sits at the center of everything Chris and his team create. A powerful episode rooted in purpose, humor, honesty, and the reminder that life is too short to wait for someday. Explore Unsukay: https://unsukay.com/  Explore Giving Kitchen: https://unsukay.com/giving/ 

In this episode of Retire Southern, Steve Nygren shares the remarkable story behind Serenbe, the pioneering wellness community tucked into the hills of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia. Steve opens up about the Monday morning he woke up, stepped off the corporate treadmill, and completely rewrote the script of his life. What began as a quiet escape to the country became the spark for a movement built on radical common sense. Steve reflects on the moment a bulldozer flattening a nearby forest pushed him from observer to advocate, and how that single wake-up call inspired a new model for community living. Guided by nature, human connection, and intentional design, Serenbe's story is a reminder that our surroundings shape our lives more than we realize. We talk about free-range kids, uncaged elders, clustered neighborhoods, and why designing around nature—not on top of it—creates healthier, happier people. Steve also shares what it means to protect green space, build with purpose, and create a place where people can breathe again. If you've ever felt the pull to step out of the rat race, reset your priorities, or rethink what "home" should feel like, this conversation is your invitation to explore a different way of living. Explore Serenbe. Explore Steve's new book. Explore what's possible when you stop waiting for someday. Listen now and share with someone who's craving a life lived with more intention. Explore Serenbe: https://www.serenbe.com/visit  Buy the Book: Start In Your Own Backyard

In this episode of Retire Southern, host James Lewis sits down with Coy Bowles — Grammy-winning guitarist, songwriter, and children's author best known for his work with the Zac Brown Band — to explore how music, family, and purpose intersect in a life built on creativity and gratitude. From his "blue-collar Wonder Years" upbringing in Thomaston, Georgia, to writing hits like Colder Weather and Knee Deep, Bowles shares how his Southern roots shaped his storytelling — and how fatherhood and faith now fuel his passion for inspiring others. He also opens up about his newest children's book, Every Amazing Story, co-written with Malcolm Mitchell, and his mission to help young readers across Georgia discover the power of imagination and literacy.

In this episode of Retire Southern, we sit down with Kevin Ouzts, founder of The Spotted Trotter, sharing how his entrepreneurial spirit, grit, and dedication to the craft has shaped a slow food legacy with a Southern twist. Learn how he built one of the nation's most respected charcuterie houses with the trademark, New American Charcuterie, and how his story defines what it means in the context of living well in the South.

In this episode of Retire Southern, we sit down with Erica Tuggle, founder of Livin, a meal service that connects professional chefs with busy families for healthy, affordable, home-cooked dinners and gatherings. Recorded inside James and Amanda's home, Erica shares how Livin helps families reclaim their time, build better habits, and support local chefs. If you've ever asked "What's for dinner?" one too many times—this episode is for you.

Charleston doesn't just tell its history—it haunts it. In this episode of Retire Southern, we meet Mike Brown, historian and host of the Pleasing Terrors Podcast and ghost tour. Mike shares how his fascination with Charleston's darker past led to a podcast praised for both its research and atmosphere. From personal paranormal encounters at the Old Jail House to historical truths buried under decades of myth, Mike gives us a front-row seat to the ghost stories that still linger in the Holy City. Listen now to hear how storytelling, history, and hauntings come together in one unforgettable tour.

Cristi Kavanaugh caught her first wave at 38 — and built a business that helps others catch theirs, too. In this episode of Retire Southern, host James Lewis visits Cristi at her St. Simons Island home to talk surfing, custom skimboards, community events, and the much anticipated opening of the KavPar Boardsports storefront. Whether you're a beach lover, parent, or entrepreneur, Cristi's story of confidence and coastal connection will leave you inspired. Catch the full episode and book surf camps at kavparcustoms.com.

Creature Comforts Brewing is a force for good - just like its mission statement. Now an Athens stronghold with direct connections to the University of Georgia, the Brewery started with roots in science and sustainability, with a little curiosity. CEO Adam Beauchamp joins Retire Southern to teach us about how their focus on community impact, sustainability - and of course, making award-winning beer and distilled spirits - creates a lasting impact.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode, James Lewis sit down with Ti Adelaide Martin inside Commander's Palace to talk about what hospitality actually looks like in practice. Not in theory. Not in slogans. But in the daily discipline of answering phones, reading tables, training people, and caring about details that most guests never consciously notice. Ti shares how growing up under the influence of her mother, Ella Brennan, shaped her understanding of service, why Commander's Palace operates on a fanatical commitment to fundamentals, and how that philosophy extends into her work as a co founder of the New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute (NOCHI). We also talk about training the next generation of hospitality professionals and why organizations like Aramark, Sodexo Live!, and Viking River Cruises turn to NOCHI for workforce development. This conversation is about consistency, leadership, and the long game of building a restaurant that earns trust one table at a time.

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.

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.

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!  

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!  

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.  

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

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."

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!

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.

Louisiana basketball legend Randy Livingston joins the Retire Southern Podcast for an inspiring, wide ranging conversation about resilience, purpose and the pursuit of basketball. Randy shares his journey from growing up in the Calliope Projects to becoming a national high school superstar, choosing LSU, overcoming major injuries, reaching the NBA and later coaching across the United States and Australia. Randy also discusses the creation of his Live On Basketball program, his return to Newman School, coaching Arch Manning, winning multiple state championships and the impact his work now has on young athletes across New Orleans. 👉 Read the full feature on Retire Southern https://www.retiresouthern.com/retiresouthernpodcast/randy-livingston Topics Covered: • Growing up in New Orleans • Becoming a national high school basketball phenom • Recruiting stories with Dean Smith, Coach K and Rick Pitino • Choosing LSU and navigating devastating injuries • NBA Draft night and playing with Barkley, Olajuwon and Drexler • Coaching in the NBA Development League • Five years in Australia and international scouting • Building the LivOn Basketball program • Coaching Arch Manning at Newman • Winning multiple state championships • The mission behind LivOn and mentoring young athletes The Retire Southern Podcast tells meaningful, character driven stories from across the South to inspire intentional living at every stage of life.  

In the inaugural episode of Retire Southern, James and Amanda pull back the curtain on how their blended family of eight, affectionately known as Team Chaos, tackles one of their favorite places in the South: Florida's Forgotten Coast. From St. George Island to Cape San Blas, this conversation is equal parts travel guide, family story, and reminder that intentional living does not mean perfect living. It means planning well enough that you can actually enjoy the moments that matter. James and Amanda share everything they have learned from years of trial, error, and laughter-filled road trips. They talk through packing systems that keep them sane, the art of the one stop drive, the magic of container organization, and why bringing your own groceries might be the biggest travel hack on the entire coast. They also highlight local gems like Weber's Donuts, BJ's Pizza, Mango Mike's, and the Blue Parrot, along with their favorite rental partner and the unforgettable bonfire experiences that turn a quiet beach night into a core memory. The Forgotten Coast is not crowded, commercial, or overdone. It is peaceful. It is simple. It is the rare type of place where your kids can run, your dog can roam, and you can breathe again. For James and Amanda, it is the perfect backdrop to slow down, reconnect, and live with intention, which is what Retire Southern is all about. Whether you are planning your first trip or refining your return, this episode offers practical tips, local insight, and family tested lessons that make travel smoother and more meaningful. Explore the Forgotten Coast. Explore the stories behind the places. And remember, do not wait for retirement to start living.