Louisiana's Playground

Guest Kailey Newcity, an ambassador for FARA and board member for Families for Inclusion, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss accessible opportunities in Southwest Louisiana and the great outdoor activities that are truly inclusive.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.  Stop by Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen in Iowa for an authentic taste of Southwest Louisiana with homemade sausage, boudin lunch plates and so much more! 

Guest Eric Avery, the President and Founder of Crying Eagle Brewing Company, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the highly anticipated opening of Crying Eagle’s lakefront location. The picturesque restaurant will serve as an anchor for future lakefront developments and is a must-try recommendation in Lake Charles.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by Crying Eagle Lakefront, a premier destination set along the lake in Lake Charles, where you can enjoy fresh Gulf-inspired cuisine, expertly brewed craft beers, and specialty cocktails across 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, all while soaking in sweeping waterfront views.  Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Cynthia Eagle, the owner of The Lost Hollows Haunted Attraction, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the haunted trail as they prepare for their 12th year bringing the screams during spooky season.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Nogal Mexican Cuisine Bar for a taste of authenic Mexican food intense and vibrant flavors! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Mike Castille, the Director of Community Services for the City of Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Lake Charles’ family-first focus on developing Lake Charles’ programming. From city-planned events and parks to nature-filled recreation, there is always something to do for the whole family.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Fat Pat’s Bar & Grill for a great time with stacked burgers, wings, and Louisiana bites like boudin balls. Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Chris Landry, the president and CEO of the Louisiana Travel Association, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss LTA’s impact on Louisiana’s tourism scene, including their annual event, the Louisiana Travel Summit, which is hosted in Lake Charles this year.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Casa Mañana for some sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, and house-made flour tortillas! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Ashley Royer, the Creative Director of the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss ICM’s many cultural offerings and scheduled events. From rotating art shows to history exhibits that range from fascinating to spooky, there is always something to see at the Imperial Calcasieu Museum.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Twanie's Terrific Treats for his famous chocolate chip cookies and other delicious desserts! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

In Southwest Louisiana, we like to celebrate, well, everything! The fall season is packed with festivals and events and the Louisiana’s Playground podcast is here to give you a rundown of what to expect from Lake Charles’ biggest celebrations over the next few months. Brady and Jillian discuss all the 2025 fall events on this special episode of the podcast.    Learn more about upcoming events in Southwest Louisiana by visiting visitlakecharles.org/events. Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Doug Miller, the Director of Operations and Development / Wildlife Biologist at Grosse Savanne Lodge, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the numerous outdoor offerings at Grosse Savanne Lodge. From guided fishing and hunting trips to eco-tours with luxurious accommodations, you’ll be in for a memorable experience at Grosse Savanne.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Wang Sistas for great wings, burgers, fries, sno-balls and more! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Hal McMillin, the Mayor of the City of Westlake, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Westlake’s rise as a hidden gem in Southwest Louisiana. The city’s focus on quality-of-life improvements for residents and visitors has the city bustling with recreational amenities for the whole family.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Blue Iguana for great Mexican flavors and drinks in a clean, welcoming and vibrant atmosphere! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Kathryn Shea Duncan, the Senior Director of Social Media/Communications at Visit Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to beaches in Southwest Louisiana. From scenic and tranquil natural beaches in Cameron Parish to man-made resort beaches at our casino properties, we can guarantee that in SWLA, there is a beach for you.   For more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend, check out VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by Loggerheads for a relaxing lunch or dinner with a peaceful view overlooking the Calcasieu River!    Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Bobby Thornton, the VP of Marketing at L’Auberge Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to celebrate L’Auberge’s 20th Anniversary as well as the casino resort’s major PR win in May with UK influencers Jase and Josh. In addition, the trio discusses why its important during a casino stay to spend time out in the city as well, to get a taste of the culture and hospitality of Southwest Louisiana.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by Ball's Fried Chick-N for perfectly seasoned, crispy fried chicken that has satisfied locals for decades!   Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Sean Vidrine, the CEO at Four Points RV Resorts, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the many ways families can play at the new Yogi Bear Jellystone Park! Offering activities like swimming, arts and crafts, and a variety of games, there's fun for the whole family.  Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Shucks! For their renowned oysters and generous portions of Louisiana seafood in a casual, friendly atmosphere with live music and ample outdoor seating, ensuring every guest is treated like family! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Bryce Boudreaux, the on-field host for the Gumbeaux Gators, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss all things Gumbeaux Gators baseball! The trio touches on the first season’s success, how Bryce hypes up the crowds and why you need to be in the stands this summer to catch a game.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Thai Lake Charles for authentic Thai cuisine made as spicy or mild as you desire! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Toni Chapman, the Digital Content Manager at Visit Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to spotlight the must do experiences while in Lake Charles. The trio creates their own Mt. Rushmore of Lake Charles must dos in this fun episode!      Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by FatBoyz Kitchen Table in Westlake for phenomenal plate lunches and great homestyle Louisiana cooking! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Donnie Glyenn, the owner/operator of Biking Through the Lake, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss seeing Lake Charles from the seat of a bicycle. With Biking Through the Lake, Glyenn takes locals and visitors throughout downtown, showing off our sights, sounds and history through a fun and engaging excursion.      Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by The Kitchen for lunch and taste what true home cooking in South Louisiana is all about!  Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Jeff Bayer, the Biologist Supervisor for the LDFW Nature and Science Center at Port Wonder, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to continue discussing what Port Wonder is bringing to the Southwest Louisiana community. The trio talks about the Nature and Science Center and how it will lead to a new generation of children interested in science!   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Shwarmas for bold, fresh Lebanese food that brings the rich, mouth-watering flavors of Lebanon to your table! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Allyson Montgomery, the Executive Director for The Children’s Museum at Port Wonder, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground for one of the podcast's most anticipated episodes. The trio discusses the completion and soon-to-be grand opening of Port Wonder on the lakefront! Port Wonder will house both the Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana and a Nature and Science Center run by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by Bayou Boards for your charcutier needs or a fresh bite for lunch with their sandwiches and flatbreads!  Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Hosts Brady and Jillian fly solo on Louisiana’s Playground this episode as they uncover some of the best places to satisfy sugar cravings, from classic indulgences to hidden gems.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by The Bekery for an unforgettable French-inspired café experience!  Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Judson McCord, the owner/operator of Game2Life joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss how Game2Life aims to make adults feel like kids again. From premier laser tag to axe throwing and pickleball, Game2Life aims to be Lake Charles’ playground.   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.    Stop by Victoria's Taqueria for an authentic Mexican flavor for breakfast or lunch!    Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC. 

Guest Jana Meaux, a Mardi Gras Costume Designer joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the pageantry of the Mardi Gras season! The extravagant and shimmering costumes worn by the Krewe’s royalty are hand-made by local designers like Meaux. Hear her story and how she crafts these wearable works of art!   Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org. Stop by Stellar Beans Coffee House & Edibles in downtown Lake Charles for a coffee break that is out of this world! Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.