Skye Isaac bridges the worlds of LA and L.A. in this soulful episode of AcadianaCasts Presents. A Lafayette native and rising star in the entertainment industry, Skye shares her journey from performing with Solange on SNL, singing with Raye at the Grammy's to releasing her groundbreaking new Zydeco album Ducey featuring Buckwheat Zydeco Jr., Cedric Watson, Major Handy, and others. We talk cultural pride, carving space for women in Zydeco, creative direction, and her return home to perform at ...
This week we’re joined by JP Leonard — the man behind Lafayette Comedy and the driving force turning Lafayette into one of the South’s top destinations for stand-up. From booking national acts like Shane Gillis and Tom Segura to hosting local open mics, JP shares how he built a thriving comedy scene from scratch… all without making eye contact on stage. We also dive into the first-ever Lafayette Comedy Festival, happening August 7–9 at Club 337 and Gator Cove. JP opens up about the stress, st...
The mask of masculinity has kept too many men silent about their mental health. In this powerful episode, psychiatric provider Allen Green shares his personal battle with lifelong depression and suicidal thoughts—publicly for the first time. Now the owner of Greenhouse Psychiatric Services, Green uses his experience to break the stigma around men's mental health. He sheds light on how depression often looks different in men, the dangerous myths of "toughness," and how physical and mental heal...
Gregg Martinez’s 50-year music career is a testament to resilience, passion, and artistic evolution. In this episode, the Louisiana Music Hall of Famer reflects on his journey from singing at high school talent shows in Lafayette to performing in Atlantic City casinos and sharing stages with swamp pop legends. Along the way, he’s picked up stories you won’t believe—like getting handwritten praise from Ivana Trump—and hard-earned wisdom about the realities of being a working musician. Martinez...
This week, Carter Simoneaux sits down with KLFY General Manager Chris Cook for a conversation that bridges the past, present, and future of local media in South Louisiana. From his early days behind the camera at KALB to leading one of Acadiana’s most recognizable newsrooms, Cook shares how his journey has shaped his commitment to keeping local content at the heart of everything he does. The two dive into what truly makes local news different from national networks—namely, its deep ties to th...
For 25 years, Miles Perret Cancer Services has been a lifeline for families across Acadiana facing the unthinkable. In this episode, Sherry Hernandez and Tim Rinaldi share how the organization grew from one family's loss into a trusted community resource — helping over 26,000 cancer patients with free support services that go far beyond medical care. From wigs and medical supplies to transportation and nutrition assistance, Miles Perret fills the gaps that insurance often can’t. The conversat...
In this special episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, we’re shining a spotlight on Paques In The Parc, an event that blends tradition, music, and community to celebrate Acadiana’s rich heritage. Organizers Dexter Ruffin and Keith Sonnier take us inside the festival’s heart and soul, where the age-old egg-cracking game of “paques” meets the infectious energy of Zydeco music at Vermilionville. With performances from Horace Trahan, Gino DeLaFose, and Chubby Carrier, the festival honors the past whi...
Building a comedy career in Louisiana comes with its own set of challenges—limited stage time, long drives for gigs, and audiences that keep comedians on their toes. Tyler Arceneaux pulls back the curtain on the Southern comedy scene, from the rise of Club 337 to the evolving role of social media in stand-up. We dive into what makes a great comedy room, how viral clips are changing audience expectations, and the grind it takes to make it in a place with only one open mic a week. Whether you'r...
From podcasting to becoming the voice of Louisiana’s biggest fighting events, Bryce Boudreaux’s journey is proof that passion and personality can turn unexpected opportunities into a thriving career. A chance mentorship with veteran announcer Rod Sterling set him on the path to professional announcing, and when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down events in Louisiana, he adapted—traveling to Mississippi and Texas to keep his dream alive. The Lake Charles native shares incredible behind-the-scenes ...
In this episode, Tim Benson, founder of NetScore, unpacks the challenges of content creation and finding authenticity in today’s crowded digital world. We discuss the struggle of staying consistent, why many creators quit just before success, and how to push through the noise to find your unique voice. Tim also shares insights into the evolving music industry, the power of personal connections over automated strategies, and how independent artists can thrive—even in challenging markets like L...
Step into the wild and vibrant world of Cajun Mardi Gras with filmmaker and VICE documentarian Jackson Garrett. Originally from Montgomery, Alabama, Jackson brings an outsider’s perspective to one of Louisiana’s most unique and under-appreciated traditions in his documentary Gatherings: Cajun Mardi Gras. In this episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, we explore what makes Cajun Mardi Gras so different from the parades of New Orleans—where masked riders chase chickens, traditions are passed down t...
What if a typo became your brand? Meet Chasity Theriot, aka "Lady in Tge Bathroom," who turned a simple mistake into viral fame. In this episode, she shares her journey from dental assistant to full-time content creator, balancing the challenges of going viral, navigating cancel culture, and staying true to her Louisiana roots. Discover how Chasity’s humor, resilience, and creativity keep her thriving in the fast-paced world of social media, with highlights of Mardi Gras, line dancing, and co...
Discover the heart and soul of community impact in this episode featuring John Williams, Executive Director of Love of People. From the transformative Blue Monday Mission that bridges generations through music to community initiatives like the Williams Bros Diaper Drive and Community Thanksgiving, John shares how small acts of love grow into meaningful change. As part of a 2024 Year in Review, John reflects on the success of initiatives like Fight Fest, introduced this year to support Parkins...
Chaz Roberts of Law Have Mercy and Chaz Roberts Law joins AcadianaCasts Presents to discuss his journey from Cecilia, Louisiana to social media influencer, impactful podcaster and personal injury attorney. From safeguarding constitutional rights during traffic stops to navigating the complexities of the insurance system, Chaz shares valuable legal insights and practical advice. We also dive into Louisiana culture, entrepreneurial grit, and the challenges of redefining perceptions in the legal...
In this episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, Filmmaker and Creative Director/Founder of Télé-Louisiane Drake LeBlanc takes us behind the scenes of his documentary Footwork, which shines a light on the untold stories of Black and Creole cowboys in Louisiana. From breaking cowboy stereotypes to exploring the rich tapestry of Creole culture through Zydeco music and dancing, we delve into the intersection of tradition and modernity. We also discuss the unique role of storytelling in preserving Loui...
In this episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, Ray Flores, owner of Industrial Safety Solutions, shares how behavioral sciences can transform safety culture in high-risk industries. Drawing on his background in psychology and experience in the oil sector, Ray discusses using positive reinforcement, trust, and cultural awareness to empower employees and create safer workplaces. We also dive into innovative paramedic training programs, exploring how to prepare teams to excel in safety and communica...
In this episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, singer/songwriter Dustin Gaspard opens up about his path through Louisiana’s music scene, reflecting on the challenges unique to South Louisiana. We discuss the hurdles up-and-coming musicians face, from "gatekeeping" by established artists to the pressure to cater to audiences who prefer upbeat dance music over singer/songwriter styles. Dustin also shares his experience reconnecting with his Cajun heritage through a recent French immersion program i...
AcadianaCasts Presents is back! Our first episode back features the always entertaining and personable, Caroline Marcello, content creator for Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission and on-air personality for Hot 107.9 in Lafayette, LA. In this episode of AcadianaCasts Presents, Caroline shares her journey from small-town news in Houma to larger media markets like Lafayette. We dive into her memorable on-air moments at KLFY, career shifts, and her deep appreciation for Louisiana’s uniq...
When the scent of burnt biscuits wafts through the air, you know you're in for a story—and that's just how we kick off our heart-to-heart with country music's new darling, Kristen Foreman. Born and bred in the rich cultural tapestry of Carencro, Louisiana, Kristen brings a spicy blend of Cajun zest and '90s country nostalgia to the Nashville stage. Through a laugh-out-loud discussion about the oddest business ideas and host, Carter Simoneaux's own fashion faux pas with cowboy attire, we weave...
It's a cultural gumbo of comedy as we explore DJ Rhett's path, carved through the swamps of social media, to become a beloved figure who isn't afraid to poke fun at himself, pastalaya and everyone in between. From navigating the tricky waters of online criticism to celebrating the quirks of Cajun life, Rhett's parodies reflect a community rich in stories and ripe for laughter. He even gives us a peek into the regional nuances that flavor his comedy. This episode is a slice of Louisiana life, ...