Posture & Purpose With Dr. Michelle Carr Frank

French was once treated like something to hide in Louisiana. Today, it’s a doorway into memory, family, and a kind of community pride that you can hear in the streets of Lafayette. I’m joined by Musa Sadoo, a French educator from Niger and the president of this year’s Festival International de Louisiane, and his story is the perfect lens for understanding how language and culture travel and how they take root.We talk about Musa’s leap to Louisiana in 2002 through CODOFIL, the shock of arriving with limited English, and the small acts of hospitality that made him feel like he’d found the place he was meant to be. From French immersion classrooms to conversations about Cajun and Creole heritage, he shares how French becomes a bridge between grandparents and grandchildren, between local traditions and global connections, and between a newcomer and a city that welcomes him.Then we go behind the scenes of Festival International de Louisiane, one of the biggest free music festivals in the world. Musa explains why the festival works: diversity across genres and countries, year-round planning, sponsor support, and more than 2,500 volunteers who keep the magic moving. We also cover practical tips for attending, including family-friendly spaces, accessibility considerations, passes, the festival app, and what to know if it’s your first time downtown.If you care about Lafayette Louisiana culture, Francophone heritage, or how community events can change a city, you’ll get a lot from this conversation. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a reason to visit Lafayette, and leave a review so more people can find the show.

Snoring isn’t just a sound problem, it can be a nightly oxygen problem that steals your deep sleep while you swear you “slept all night.” We sit down with Dr. Tony Soileau, clinical director and owner of Smiles by Soileau and Lafayette Sleep Solutions, to connect the dots between the jaw, tongue, airway, and the fatigue that follows you into every morning. If you or your partner sleeps in a different room because of snoring, this conversation puts real physiology behind a very common story.We talk dental sleep medicine and why a dentist can be a key part of sleep apnea treatment, while still relying on a proper sleep study for diagnosis. Dr. Soileau explains what actually happens when you lie down and gravity pulls the jaw back, how “light snoring” can progress into true obstructive sleep apnea events, and why the goal is not just more time in bed but better sleep stages. You’ll also hear what a modern home sleep study looks like, plus how CPAP works compared to a custom oral appliance that holds the jaw in a safer breathing position.Then we zoom out to the bigger health picture: nasal breathing, nitric oxide, box breathing, vagus nerve regulation, and why stage three sleep matters for healing, hormone balance, inflammation, and the brain’s glymphatic cleanup. We also cover insomnia patterns and the simple 20 to 30-minute rule to rebuild a healthier association with bed, along with clear guidance on melatonin and magnesium so they’re not used like sedatives.If you found this helpful, subscribe, share it with someone who snores, and leave a review so more people can find better sleep. What’s the one sleep habit you want to change first?

Your feet are your foundation, and when that foundation is off, it can show up everywhere: back pain, nagging knee issues, or the quiet belief that you’re “just not a runner.” We sit down with Mary Hayes, owner of Go Run by Fleet Feet in Lafayette, Louisiana, for a real-world look at how the right footwear and a thoughtful fitting process can help people move better, whether they are training for a marathon or simply trying to walk without discomfort. We talk about why most customers in a specialty running store are not runners at all, and how local doctors and chiropractors often send patients in for support. Mary breaks down why asking “What’s the best running shoe?” misses the point, and how tools like a 3D foot scan can reveal arch height, foot volume, and even left-to-right size differences that affect comfort and injury risk. We also get practical about beginner mistakes like doing too much too soon, the role of stretching and strength work, and why running can be such a powerful mental health reset until injury takes it away. The conversation widens into Lafayette’s running community and local races, including the Zydeco Marathon as a Boston qualifier, plus Mary’s personal stories from living overseas in Nigeria and the UAE. Her experiences with fitness groups, service, and simply helping people get what they need are a reminder that “wellness” is not just training plans, it’s community, access, and follow-through. If you enjoy honest conversations about running, injury prevention, posture, and building healthy habits that last, subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a nudge to start, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What would it take for you to take your first walk or first run this week?

Posture changes fast when you get adjusted. It changes for good when you build the strength to hold it. That’s why I loved sitting down with Angel Whitaker, owner of IMX Pilates Lafayette, to talk about what Pilates actually does for your body and why core and spinal strength are non-negotiable if you want less pain and better movement.We get specific about Pilates vs yoga, where they overlap, and where they’re truly different. Angel explains how reformer-based Pilates and IMX Pilates use resistance, apparatus, and key fundamentals like spinal elongation, pelvic stabilization, rib cage control, and forceful exhalation to build stability you can feel in real life. If you’ve ever thought Pilates is “just stretching,” this will reset that belief quickly.We also talk about who Pilates is for, from total beginners to athletes, from clients with arthritis to people recovering after spinal fusion, joint replacement, or even stroke. Angel shares powerful stories about confidence returning, pain decreasing, and neuromuscular education clicking into place when people stay consistent. We go into how Pilates can complement chiropractic care, massage, and physical therapy, and why “rest forever” is often the wrong prescription when smart low-impact movement is available.You’ll leave with practical takeaways too, including Angel’s pick for the most underrated exercise (glute bridges) and a simple reminder about reducing phone time to protect your neck and posture. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a safer strength plan, and leave a review if it helps. What would you like your body to be able to do again?

A routine 32-week scan changed everything—then a nurse mom turned fear into a roadmap. We sit down with Victoria Garcia, RN and founder of Julia’s Advocacy, to unpack the biology of achondroplasia in plain language, the exact first steps for safer newborn care, and the practical systems that give families back their footing. From updated consensus guidelines to everyday hacks that clinicians don’t always mention, this is a clear-eyed guide to moving from shock to confidence.We walk through the FGFR3 gene’s role, why most cases are spontaneous to average-height parents, and how to build a coordinated team—neurology, ENT, orthopedics, pediatrics, and PT—to monitor what matters without overreacting. Victoria shares two critical infant safety insights every caregiver should know: how a larger occiput can force the head forward in car seats and what a physician-approved shoulder-blade roll can do to protect the airway, plus how feeding patterns and growth velocity differ in achondroplasia infants so families avoid unnecessary NG tubes. These details save time, lower risk, and ease a parent’s mental load.Beyond the clinic, we talk life: high-top shoes to support lax ankles, joyful play, and the misconceptions that still cling to dwarfism—particularly around intelligence and quality of life. Inclusion comes to life through small, concrete changes: flip-down stools at sinks, counters built for every body, accessible parking that’s honored, and language that respects identity. Victoria’s resource library and “quick tips” distill medical literature into steps parents can use today, while community connections bring hope and hard-won wisdom within reach.If you’re a parent, clinician, or ally searching for evidence, empathy, and real-world tools, this conversation offers both compass and map. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so more families can find these resources.

Your face tells your story—through expression, voice, breath, and the quiet confidence to be seen. We sit down with Dr. Paige Kennedy, a facial reconstructive plastic surgeon, to unpack what it really takes to restore identity and function after trauma, cancer, or congenital differences, and why the best results honor both anatomy and emotion.Dr. Kennedy traces her path from early mentors to high-stakes operating rooms, revealing how creativity drives reconstruction when injuries defy the textbook. She opens the door to the trauma bay and the Mohs dermatology suite, showing how flaps, grafts, and meticulous tissue planning help patients regain normalcy. We dive into cleft lip and palate care, facial nerve reconstruction, and airway-focused jaw surgery—team-based efforts that blend surgery with speech therapy and psychosocial support to change daily life, not just appearance.We also tackle the noisy world of filters, trends, and “before-and-after” photos. Dr. Kennedy explains why standardized photography builds trust, how she screens for body dysmorphic disorder, and the emotional arc many patients experience during recovery. Social media has made patients more informed than ever, and we explore how that can sharpen consults while still requiring careful guidance. On the horizon: preservation rhinoplasty and deep plane facelift techniques that protect structure, maintain function, and deliver natural results with less downtime.If you’ve ever wondered how reconstructive plastic surgery can restore confidence, breathing, speech, and presence in photos and real life, this conversation offers a clear, compassionate tour. We also share practical advice on advocating for yourself: get multiple opinions, align on goals, and choose a surgeon who will partner with you through the full journey.Enjoyed the conversation? Follow, rate, and share the show so others can find it—and tell us what surprised you most about reconstructive surgery.

Think you know Mardi Gras because you’ve seen New Orleans? Let us take you to Lafayette, where volunteers, logistics, and tradition come together to create one of the safest, most family-friendly celebrations anywhere. We welcome trial attorney and Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association president Chris Velmorette to pull back the curtain on how a year of planning becomes a seamless parade week—right down to the barricades, float safety checks, police coordination, and the festival at Cajun Field.Chris shares how his legal training translates into leading complex operations with clear communication and calm under pressure. We dig into the recent route debate—why Jefferson Street’s business case didn’t outweigh decades of tradition—and how a packed city council meeting reminded leaders that community trust is the parade’s true engine. We compare Lafayette’s approach to New Orleans, Houma, and Mobile, talk through why a volunteer board matters, and tally the ripple effect on small businesses, from bead buys to tux rentals. You’ll also hear this year’s entertainment highlights and why Lafayette’s “season, not a day” cadence makes room for families to enjoy multiple parades with ease.Then the conversation turns to a gripping legal and medical saga: the early fight to license chiropractic care in Louisiana, and a courtroom moment where a wheelchair-bound client—restored to walking after sustained chiropractic treatment—changes an entire malpractice case in a single step. It’s a reminder that good advocacy, like good community work, asks tough questions, follows the evidence, and keeps people at the center.If you’ve never experienced Lafayette’s Mardi Gras, consider this your invitation. Bring your family, make friends on the route, try the boiled crawfish, and feel what happens when a city rallies behind safety, culture, and joy. If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show.

Want a calmer, truer way to talk about sex? We sit down with sex-positive therapist Gabby Lopez to explore how real intimacy grows when we move past “Is this normal?” and start asking “Am I enjoying this?” From the first minutes, we dig into what sex therapy does differently: it brings sex into the room without shame, pairs it with nervous system health, and treats pleasure as an essential part of well-being rather than an optional extra.Gabby breaks down two desire styles—spontaneous and responsive—and explains why many couples mistake mismatched desire for a broken bond. We look closely at the orgasm gap, the hidden pressure of frequency, and how stress, pain, and exhaustion shut down arousal. You’ll hear grounded strategies for reconnecting: easing the body into safety after long days, using accurate language to replace stigma, and choosing practical tools that make pleasure easier, like lube, toys, and gentle pacing. We also name the difference between sexual chemistry and emotional safety, and why vulnerability often reads as more erotic than polished confidence.If you’re navigating trauma, attachment patterns, or the myths surrounding sex and aging, this conversation offers patient guidance. Consent starts earlier than most people think, and using correct anatomy—vulva included—helps many women access pleasure and advocate for themselves. We share simple rituals that work: weekly check-ins about enjoyment, playful curiosity over performance, and even scheduling intimacy to reduce friction. The goal isn’t to meet an external standard; it’s to create a sex life that fits your nervous systems, values, and season of life.Press play to learn how to talk without shame, design encounters that honor both partners, and rebuild self-trust one honest question at a time. If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find conversations that make intimacy feel safer, kinder, and more fun.

What if prevention, confidence, and a touch of aesthetics could change the way you move through life? We sit down with a nurse practitioner who started in the ER, built a med spa, and now blends clinical rigor with human-centered wellness. The story spans early calling to nursing, the realities of NP training and autonomy, and the practical ways strength work, GLP-1s, and thoughtful collaboration help patients reclaim everyday wins—from walking a store without breathlessness to enjoying trips without constant stops.We get clear about what nurse practitioners actually do: years of education, supervised clinical hours, and responsibility that expands access to care. Then we connect the dots between disciplines—primary care, physical therapy, chiropractic, aesthetics—showing how a team can rally around prevention. Cardio matters, but resistance and core training emerge as the quiet heroes for spine health, balance, and longevity. In a place where food and celebration are part of identity, moderation beats deprivation, and small, consistent changes carry the day.The conversation also dives into GLP-1 therapies with a measured, research-first approach: slow titration, lifestyle support, and watchful attention to both metabolic and aesthetic outcomes. Reduced cravings become a surprising ally in cutting alcohol and improving nutrition. Looking ahead, AI and machine learning promise sharper, more individualized decisions—when paired with clinical judgment and verification. The sticking point remains policy: insurance systems that resist prevention create costs and burnout downstream, and we talk candidly about what needs to change.If you want practical steps, real patient stories, and a fresh lens on wellness that respects both science and the human heart, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share it with a friend who’s building healthier habits, and leave a review with the one change you’re ready to commit to this week.

Most people see a line, a counter, and a bag—but pharmacy care is so much more. We invited pharmacist Ebony Brown to share a clear, inside look at how modern community pharmacies protect patients, prevent errors, and deliver real clinical value far beyond dispensing pills. It’s a candid, practical conversation that turns confusion into confidence.We trace Ebony’s path into pharmacy and the surprises that meet many new clinicians: nonstop multitasking, legal guardrails, and the responsibility to catch therapy problems before they reach the patient. She breaks down the shift toward vaccination programs and medication therapy management, plus simple habits that dramatically reduce risk—like focusing on drug name, strength, and directions each time you pick up a refill. We tackle duplicate medications from multiple prescribers, why supplements and herbs must be disclosed, and how pharmacists collaborate with physicians to resolve dosing and safety questions.Ebony also debunks vaccine myths with straightforward science about timing and immune response, then dives into GLP-1 medicines changing diabetes, weight, and cardiovascular care. Expect a balanced take: benefits, side effects, and how to protect lean muscle with strength training and better nutrition. We unpack brand versus generic, when excipients matter, and why tight therapeutic windows like thyroid therapy can demand consistency. For seniors and caregivers, you’ll hear actionable tips on pill packs, refill syncing, and reducing pharmacy trips. Throughout, Ebony humanizes the unseen work—navigating laws, insurance, and access barriers—so patients get the right medicine, safely.If you want safer medications, fewer headaches, and a better partnership with your pharmacist, this conversation is your playbook. Listen, share with someone who manages medications, and leave a review so others can find the show. Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube and tell us the one pharmacy question you want answered next.

A wag, a step, a pause at the bottom of the stairs—tiny moments like these tell a full story about your pet’s health. We welcome Dr. Angie Sanders from Companion Animal Hospital of Lafayette to explore how veterinarians translate posture and gait into practical care plans, why cats require “wild-leaning” home setups, and how to navigate the noisy swirl of social media trends without losing sight of real science and your pet’s quality of life.Together, we dig into the most common issues in dogs and cats—dermatology and allergies, stress-linked feline illness, and the quiet ways pain hides in everyday movement. Dr. Sanders shares when a shortened step points to cervical discomfort rather than a sore paw, why home videos beat in-clinic walks for anxious cats, and how small shifts in routine can ease mobility challenges in seniors. We also talk exercise with nuance: enrichment first, breed limits respected, and consistent routines that prevent the “too much, too late” trap. For cat parents, you’ll hear practical, evidence-backed ideas for litter layout, vertical space, and play that satisfies natural hunting behavior.You’ll also hear about options that many owners don’t realize they have. From compassionate oncology protocols designed for comfort to rehabilitation tools like red light therapy, we separate what’s promising from what’s just trending. Dr. Sanders offers a powerful recovery story—a dog returning from traumatic injury to a grandfather’s side—that shows how medical progress restores family rituals and emotional health. And behind every plan is a team mindset: dermatology, orthopedics, oncology, rehab specialists, and trainers working together, plus the professional boundaries that keep care clear, steady, and humane.If you’ve wondered whether your pet’s “slowness” is normal aging, if that Instagram diet is worth the hype, or how to spot pain before it escalates, this conversation gives you a calm, practical roadmap. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves their animals like family, and leave a review to tell us what subtle sign you’re watching for at home.

Fear has a loud voice, but facts are stronger. We sit down with a breast surgical oncologist who turns complex decisions into clear choices—explaining how screening, genetics, and modern surgery work together to deliver high survival and a better quality of life. From the first mammogram to long-term follow-up, we walk through what actually changes outcomes and what’s just noise.We unpack the essentials: when to start screening if you’re average risk, how family history really shifts timelines, and why MRI isn’t a shortcut for everyone. You’ll hear the difference between lumpectomy and mastectomy without myths, the role of oncoplastic techniques, and how expectations shape recovery. We also dig into advances that make care easier—long-acting pain control, outpatient pathways, and soft knitted prosthetics.Genetics takes center stage with BRCA and beyond, showing how expanded panels influence surgical planning, radiation sensitivity, and family counseling. We talk candidly about full-body scans, incidental findings, and the anxiety tax of overtesting. Movement and posture get real attention: early stretching, scapular opening, and lymphatic care reduce stiffness, axillary web syndrome, and lymphedema. A multidisciplinary approach—radiology, pathology, medical and radiation oncology—keeps decisions aligned with NCCN guidelines while staying personal and humane.If you’ve found a lump or you’re putting off a mammogram, this conversation gives you a next step and a team mindset. Early detection turns a crisis into a plan; access pathways like self-referral screening remove barriers; and local support groups add strength you can feel. Subscribe, share this with someone you love, and leave a review with your biggest breast health question—we’ll bring your questions to future episodes.

Needles aren’t the headline—balance is. We sit down with Lafayette acupuncturist Donna Greene to unpack how Traditional Chinese Medicine reframes health from “fix the symptom” to “restore the system,” and why steady, consistent care beats quick fixes. Donna’s story runs from psychology and social work to massage, shiatsu, and acupuncture, giving her a rare lens on pain, mood, and the way stress shows up in the body. She breaks down meridians in plain language, explains why one session won’t solve long-term issues, and shows how Eastern and Western approaches can work together without ego or guesswork.We get practical. Donna walks us through a first visit, from tongue and pulse to point selection, and shares how she reads breath as a real-time stress meter. She lays out what acupuncture reliably helps—digestive issues, neuropathy, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, hypertension, and diabetes—then spells out when Western medicine must lead, especially in acute or emergency care. Her fertility insights stand out: start three months early, regulate cycles, map treatment timelines to IUI or IVF, and reduce stress so the body can do its job. Along the way we dig into shiatsu, ashiatsu, and the difference between relaxation massage and targeted therapeutic work.The heart of the conversation is mindset and community. Donna views grief literacy as a health skill, not a crisis response, and teaches simple self-care that people actually do: daily walks, sunlight, time off screens, and finding your tribe. She champions food therapy, short-term herbs, and collaborative referrals so patients feel supported from every angle. If you’ve been curious about acupuncture, cautious about needles, or stuck with chronic symptoms that never quite resolve, this is an honest, hopeful roadmap to moving forward.If this resonates, follow and share the show, and leave a review so others can find these conversations. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube, and tell us: what small habit will you start today?

A clearer brand, a sharper mission, and programs that meet families where they are—this conversation with Amy Broussard from the Foundation for Wellness pulls back the curtain on how local public health really moves. We dig into the data behind Louisiana’s STI rates, why honest teen education matters, and how pairing kids with parents in puberty classes opens a lifetime of better conversations. Along the way, we share practical frameworks schools can adopt without losing trust with families, including collaborations across public, private, and Catholic campuses.We also look at prevention through a wider lens: violence and substance use education that starts in kindergarten and builds into high school, chronic disease prevention that treats movement as joy rather than a chore, and small habit shifts that cascade into lower risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. You’ll hear real success stories from Kids on the Go, plus the simple insight that a single daily change can unlock confidence and results. For caregivers, Safe Sitter and Safe At Home translate medical guidance into action with CPR, choking response, and modern safety standards—now expanded with a new class for grandparents and relatives.Healthcare pros are part of the solution too. The foundation provides CME and behavioral health CE to keep front-line teams up to date, aligning clinical care with community needs. Looking forward, we talk about expanding across Acadiana, dreaming of a more walkable Lafayette with bike paths and trails, and why prioritizing sleep might be the most underrated wellness habit of all. If you care about practical prevention, family safety, and community health that actually works, this one’s for you.Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

This episode of Posture & Purpose we sit down with Johnathan Booth with his Booth-Laird Capital Management and Booth-Laird Ventures.Jonathan Booth, CFA, CPA/ABV: A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and CPA who is also Accredited in Business Valuation, he has extensive experience in financial analysis and investment research. He earned the Elijah Watt Sells award for scoring one of the ten highest scores on the CPA exam globally in 2006.  He worked as auditor for Ernst & Young and KPMG, two of the world’s largest public accounting firms, before co-founding Booth-Laird Capital Management. He currently serves on the board of directors of private companies FlyGuys and US PBC as well as on the board of advisors for private companies Muddy Water Dredge Solutions and Skillcloud Consulting Group.Booth-Laird Capital Management is a boutique investment firm founded in 2008 and based in Lafayette, Louisiana. We’re an experienced team that manages money for high-net-worth individuals through private investment funds we create and manage.  Booth-Laird Ventures is a bespoke venture capital platform.  Current investments include FlyGuys, Muddy Water Dredge Solutions, Skillcloud HCM Solutions, and USPCB.Our flagship fund is Booth-Laird Investment Partnership, LP (“the fund”).  When you invest with us, your money goes directly into that fund. Similar to a mutual fund, everyone’s money, including ours, is pooled together and invested into the stock market, focusing exclusively on great companies. We make every investment decision ourselves based on our decades of experience. We have a long history of successful investing.

A child’s fight sparked a movement. When Miles Perret’s family turned grief into action, they didn’t build another fundraiser; they built a safety net that cancer treatment doesn’t cover. We sit down with community liaison Sherry Hernandez to trace how Games of Acadiana opened the doors to free, holistic services that now support more than 4,000 families a year across ten parishes.Sherry walks us through the real-world help people can count on: durable medical equipment, medical supplies, wigs and head coverings, nutritional supplements, transportation assistance, and family programs like Smiles for Miles. We dig into the power of partnerships with oncologists, navigators, and hospitals through a Clinical Advisory Committee that keeps services practical, evidence-informed, and patient-centered. You’ll also hear a moving wig-salon story that captures what dignity looks like when confidence returns in time for a daughter’s wedding.Wellness is the next frontier. The center’s current gym and coaching will soon expand into a new Capitol Drive location featuring a larger wellness center, a teaching kitchen for nutrition classes and cooking demos, and a flexible studio for modalities like sound therapy, acupuncture, and pet therapy. It’s a whole-person approach designed to meet patients and caregivers at every stage of the journey, with no income checks and no insurance barriers—just a simple qualification: a cancer diagnosis.Community is the engine. From volunteer-powered events and mailings to the beloved Camellia Crossing glow run on Thanksgiving Eve, every hour and dollar turns into concrete support for local families. If you’ve ever wondered how to help without writing a big check, this conversation shows the way. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and tell us how you plan to get involved—volunteer, donate, or join a team for the glow run. Your support keeps lifesaving services free.

You can build a big life online without handing your whole life to the internet. That’s the tension we explore with Sophia Spallino—creator, entrepreneur, and global lesbian matchmaker—whose path runs from early vlogging and age-gap virality to a values-led queer dating practice grounded in privacy, faith, and fierce resilience.Sophia opens up about the era when vulnerability was the growth hack and how the bill eventually came due. She shares the pivotal move to serve queer women worldwide, the business lessons learned from the dating industry, and why compatibility rests on shared values and daily rhythms more than lofty ideals. We dig into the moment she realized her influence, the reality of being recognized in everyday spaces, and what changed when she came out and centered the community she truly wanted to help.The most gripping stretch unpacks a platform crisis: targeted reports that almost erased her business and jeopardized her team. Sophia walks through the systems she built to recover—relationships at platforms, diversified content, spiritual grounding, and a stubborn commitment to kindness under pressure. We also step into the practical: her daily nervous system care, how she shares love without exposing privacy, and a creator strategy that balances niche focus with personal latitude so future pivots don’t require starting from zero.If you’re a creator, founder, or anyone navigating public work with a private heart, this conversation offers a blueprint for sustainable growth. You’ll leave with concrete ideas on niche selection, boundary-setting, values-based matchmaking, and the mindset it takes to lead through backlash while staying rooted in purpose. Listen, share with a friend who’s building something brave, and if the conversation resonated, subscribe, rate, and leave a quick review so more people can find us.

Birth doesn’t follow a script—and that’s exactly why thoughtful preparation, true collaboration, and culturally responsive support matter. We sit down with licensed midwife Shatamia Webb, owner of Baby Catcher Birth Center (the first Black-owned freestanding birth center in Louisiana), to explore how personalized care can transform the way families experience pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.Shatamia opens up about the real pathway to becoming a midwife—years of schooling, extensive clinical mentorship, and about 70 required births across observation, assist, and primary roles. She breaks down the difference between midwives and doulas in plain language, details the safety protocols and emergency readiness most people never see (from hemorrhage meds to oxygen and transport plans), and explains why longer prenatal visits change everything. Her stories—from a hotel birth during a hurricane evacuation to a first-time mom driving 3.5 hours each way for culturally aligned care—reveal both the complexity and the heart of modern midwifery.We also get candid about access and policy. Hospital midwives are growing in Louisiana, yet licensure and regulations still create friction for community-based practices. Shatamia shares how she collaborates with OBs, pediatricians, lactation consultants, and chiropractors to keep care seamless and safe. For parents, she offers a clear checklist for choosing a provider: licensure, training, respectful communication, emergency prep, and a genuine willingness to partner in decisions. For the rest of us, it’s an invitation to rethink what birth can be when science, vigilance, and dignity meet.If you found this conversation useful, subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube, share it with someone expecting, and leave a review to help others find the show. Your feedback shapes future episodes—what question do you want us to explore next?

What does healing really look like when a survivor is believed, safe, and supported? We sit down with Faith House’s executive director to trace the path from crisis to stability for women and children experiencing domestic violence, and we unpack the practical steps that turn safety into long-term independence. From the first confidential call to counseling, legal navigation, children’s services, and financial coaching, we walk through a comprehensive model that meets people where they are and moves at the pace of trust.You’ll hear the origin story of Faith House—from a late-1970s response to homelessness to a focused mission on domestic violence—and how the organization now serves seven parishes with shelters, non-residential offices, transitional housing, and a Family Justice Center. We tackle persistent myths head-on: abuse is not limited to any one demographic, leaving is not always the safest option, and children carry trauma even when violence isn’t directed at them. A powerful story from a former child resident shows how a safe playground and steady care can redirect a life toward college, career, and joy.If you’re a friend or family member trying to help, we share clear, humane guidance: avoid ultimatums, don’t cut off contact, and connect your loved one with trained advocates who can safety-plan and navigate courts with them. For those asking how to support, the answer is both simple and vital—donate household essentials like paper towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, volunteer your skills, and keep sharing accurate resources. Healing isn’t instant, but with consistent support, survivors don’t just get out; they rebuild with dignity.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, and share this episode with someone who needs a path to safety. If the conversation moved you, leave a review—it helps more people find these life-saving resources.

A powerful calling can emerge at any age. For Devon Brown, certified mental health practitioner and founder of Brown Counseling and Company, that moment came in middle school when he encountered a classmate struggling with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong mission to help others navigate their invisible emotional burdens.During our candid conversation, Devon shares how the therapeutic journey works both ways—while guiding clients toward better mental health, he continuously applies those same principles to his own life. "When I'm talking to somebody about their struggles, so many times we're talking to ourselves as well," he reveals, highlighting why mental healthcare is aptly called a "practice."We dive deep into what throws people out of mental alignment in today's fast-paced world. Social media tops the list, with Devon explaining how our brains weren't designed to process information at the rapid pace these platforms demand. The constant comparison, shortened attention spans, and boundary challenges create profound obstacles to mental wellbeing. As he wisely notes, "Mindset is everything," pointing to research suggesting depression and gratitude cannot simultaneously occupy the brain.The discussion takes a particularly poignant turn when addressing youth mental health. Identity formation, bullying, and unprecedented access to potentially harmful online content create a perfect storm for young people. Devon advocates for providing youth with professional support outside the family unit, as they often won't share certain struggles with parents. His insights on navigating sexual identity questions, especially in the conservative South, illuminate the non-judgmental space therapy provides for exploring complex personal journeys.Devon's innovative approach extends beyond traditional therapy sessions. His guided journals for men, women, and those seeking prayer-focused reflection help overcome the common barrier of "not knowing where to start" with journaling. These practical tools support daily gratitude practice, affirmations, and emotional awareness—small but powerful steps toward better mental health.Ready to transform your relationship with mental wellness? Listen now to discover how, as Devon powerfully states, "Everybody's story has power." Whether you're struggling personally or supporting a loved one through difficult times, this episode offers compassionate guidance for the journey ahead.

The remarkable 68-year legacy of the Junior League of Lafayette comes alive in this enlightening conversation with current president Nicole Street. Discover how this powerhouse organization of dedicated women has transformed our community through strategic partnerships, hands-on service, and leadership development.Nicole shares her personal journey from joining the League in 2013 as a young mother looking for "something just for Nicole" to becoming the organization's president. Her story illustrates how the Junior League provides both meaningful community impact and profound personal growth. Through collaborative relationships with organizations like Miles Perrette Cancer Services, Our Lady of Lourdes Women's and Children's Hospital, and numerous other local nonprofits, the League addresses critical needs throughout Acadiana.Learn about their impactful initiatives, including the Diaper Bank that distributes over 100,000 diapers annually to families in need, and the backpack program providing school supplies to families affected by cancer. Nicole discusses how the League has evolved to accommodate the changing demographics of its membership, with approximately 90% of members now being working professionals balancing careers, families, and volunteer commitments.The conversation concludes with exciting details about upcoming events, including the celebration of their cookbook's 20th anniversary and the 32nd annual Tinsel and Treasures holiday market featuring over 120 merchants. Whether you're curious about joining, supporting their initiatives, or simply learning more about this vital community organization, this episode offers valuable insights into how passionate women are making Lafayette a better place through purposeful leadership and action.

What happens when a Marine Corps veteran with 14 years in law enforcement takes on the mental health crisis affecting first responders? Staff Sergeant Beau Navarre opens up about his remarkable journey from changing tires at Walmart to spearheading a groundbreaking wellness program for the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Department.After experiencing burnout and losing six colleagues to suicide, Navarre recognized the urgent need to transform the culture of toughness that prevents many officers from seeking help. "We're raised and taught that you just got to be tough, you got to put on this facade," he explains. "But sometimes vulnerability is a good thing." His candid reflections on his own struggles with depression reveal the human side of law enforcement that citizens rarely glimpse.Sheriff Navarre's progressive approach to officer wellness has enabled the development of comprehensive resources including a state-of-the-art gym facility and partnerships with community health professionals. The program addresses both physical and mental wellbeing, tackling critical issues like sleep deprivation, hydration, and the psychological impacts of traumatic incidents. As Navarre powerfully states, "The wounded can't help the wounded."For listeners outside law enforcement, Navarre offers a profound perspective: "When you encounter an officer that's not to your liking, understand they may be going through some really tough things." His message of empathy extends beyond the badge, reminding us that everyone – from single parents to healthcare workers – needs permission to prioritize self-care. "We're so busy trying to help everyone else we forget that we need time for ourselves."Join us for this eye-opening conversation about service, sacrifice, and the critical importance of wellness for those who protect our communities. What might change in your life if you applied these same principles of self-care and vulnerability?

The heartbeat of Cajun and Creole culture pulses through every movement of traditional Zydeco dancing—an art form Dr. Moriah Hargrave has dedicated her life to preserving and sharing. In this illuminating conversation, we explore the rich historical tapestry of this uniquely Louisiana tradition, from its early 20th century roots in Jure and Lala music to its modern expressions.Dr. Hargrave's journey from dancing on her father's feet as a child to becoming a celebrated dance instructor reveals how deeply personal connections fuel cultural preservation. Her warm recollections of learning Cajun two-step from her grandmother and watching her parents dance created the foundation for what would become both a passion and profession. When she describes how dancing made her feel "secure and happy," we understand how these traditional art forms nurture both individual joy and community bonds.The conversation delves into fascinating territory when Dr. Hargrave explains how dance instruction often becomes relationship therapy. Her anecdotes about dominant Cajun women bringing reluctant husbands for lessons offer surprising insights into regional gender dynamics and how dance creates space for rebalancing these relationships. "Men want to know how to do it correctly," she explains, highlighting how her teaching builds confidence while honoring cultural roles.What makes this discussion particularly valuable is Dr. Hargrave's perspective on cultural preservation. Rather than lamenting a dying tradition, she celebrates how Zydeco continues evolving while maintaining its essential purpose: bringing people together. "You can dance in somebody's arms and not realize what their political tendencies are," she notes, pointing to dance's unique power to transcend social divisions in our increasingly fragmented world.From producing a documentary film to teaching at international festivals, Dr. Hargrave's work demonstrates how passionate cultural ambassadors can build bridges across continents. Her upcoming appearance at Europe's largest Celtic festival represents nine years of collaborative effort to showcase Louisiana's vibrant heritage on a global stage.Ready to experience this joyful tradition yourself? Follow Flourish Forever on social media and discover how Zydeco dancing might become your own pathway to cultural connection and personal joy.

What does it take to face your own mortality at 41 years old, with no symptoms, no warning signs – just a routine screening that accidentally revealed a ticking time bomb in your chest?Katie Ferguson's story will stop you in your tracks. After 20+ years advocating for heart health through the American Heart Association and 15 years as a full-time caregiver to her husband, Katie suddenly found herself on the receiving end of life-altering medical news: an aortic aneurysm that required open-heart surgery. Even more shocking? During the procedure, surgeons discovered a congenital heart defect that had never appeared on any imaging – a bicuspid valve instead of the normal tricuspid structure."If I hadn't known about this aneurysm, I'd be living on borrowed time right now," Katie reflects, now at 45 years old and thriving post-surgery. Her experience shatters the myth that heart disease only affects those who "look unhealthy" or have obvious risk factors.Throughout our conversation, Katie shares profound insights about navigating heart health in Southwest Louisiana, where cultural food traditions (boudin, etouffee, fricassee) present unique challenges. She offers practical, doable strategies for protecting your heart without sacrificing cultural connections – from simple food modifications to leveraging the region's social nature for staying active.As current chairwoman of Go Red for Women in Lafayette, Katie reveals how the American Heart Association is working locally, providing CPR kits to schools, establishing blood pressure check stations in public libraries, and addressing food insecurity through partnerships with food banks.The statistics are sobering: one in three women will die from heart disease – that's one woman every 80 seconds. Even more troubling? Women of color face higher risks and often receive less effective treatment due to medication differences across demographics.Take Katie's advice: get screened, know your family history, and trust your instincts. Your heart might be hiding something your body isn't telling you yet.Curious about your own heart health? Listen now, then visit the American Heart Association website to find free or low-cost screenings in your area. Your future self will thank you.

Your teeth reveal far more about you than just your smile. They tell a comprehensive story about your overall health, habits, lifestyle, and even your unique identity. Dr. Chase Dronette brings 14 years of dental expertise to this fascinating exploration of how our oral health connects to everything from heart disease to mental wellbeing.Did you know cardiologists now frequently require dental clearance before certain surgeries? The American Heart Association has confirmed what dentists have long suspected - the bacteria causing gum inflammation doesn't stay in your mouth. It enters your bloodstream and has been found in arterial linings, creating a direct link between your dental health and heart disease. This groundbreaking research is changing how medical professionals approach integrated care.Dr. Dronette shares surprising patterns he's observed throughout his career, like how early-morning patients typically have better dental health, fewer cavities, and more structured lifestyles than those who schedule afternoon appointments. He dispels common misconceptions about genetics versus lifestyle choices in dental problems, noting that while some dental issues may have hereditary components, most reflect our habits and health priorities.The conversation takes a fascinating forensic turn as Dr. Dronette explains how dental records serve as unique identifiers - "tooth fingerprints" that have helped solve high-profile criminal cases like Ted Bundy's. We also explore how stress manifests physically through nighttime teeth grinding, especially during times of collective anxiety like the pandemic, and how modern AI technology is revolutionizing dental diagnostics and patient education.Whether you're curious about what your dental appointment time might reveal about your personality, interested in understanding the mouth-body connection, or want practical advice for helping children develop healthy dental habits, this episode offers surprising insights that might forever change how you think about your smile.Subscribe to Posture and Purpose for more conversations at the intersection of health and wellbeing, where we explore how physical care connects to our broader life purpose.

What if your physical posture revealed deeper truths about how you move through the world? Dr. Michelle Carr-Frank, a chiropractor with over 20 years of experience, launches "Posture and Purpose" with a fresh perspective that transforms how we think about standing tall.As both a healthcare professional and self-described "perpetual adventure seeker," Dr. Michelle brings her unique lens to the intersection of physical wellness, mental clarity, and community connection. Based in Lafayette, Louisiana, she's worked with patients from all walks of life, discovering that our physical alignment often mirrors our internal state. "Posture isn't just about the physical," she explains. "It's also a reflection of how we carry ourselves through life."This podcast promises to explore territory that traditional healthcare often neglects—the space where mind meets body meets community. Dr. Michelle's passion for her profession drives her to "question the answers," challenging conventional wisdom while offering practical insights. Whether you're struggling with physical discomfort, seeking deeper purpose, or simply curious about the mind-body connection, "Posture and Purpose" invites you to stand taller in every sense. Join us as we discover how living with intention transforms not just our posture, but our entire approach to wellness and fulfillment.