Best Biz New Orleans Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 241: The Latest Power Outage: What Happened? What We Need to Do? And Whose Bill Will See A Jump Soon? 29:20

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1d ago29:20

29:20

Almost 100,000 people in the Greater New Orleans region suddenly lost power on a perfectly sunny day on Sunday, May 25. Logan Atkinson Burke, executive director of the Alliance for Affordable energy, explains why this shouldn’t have happened, what questions still need to be answered and what changes we all should be pushing for now.…

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Episode 240: You Can Help Save Women’s Business Centers in 30 Seconds 23:16

8d ago23:16

23:16

There are a lot of things on the chopping block with President Trump’s big bill, not the least of which is funding for women’s business centers throughout the country. Klassi Duncan, VP of entrepreneurship and innovation at the Urban League of Louisiana — which operates two women’s business centers in the region – explains what this loss would mean…

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Episode 239: A Big Day For Childcare with United Way of Southeast Louisiana 27:19

15d ago27:19

27:19

Today, Tuesday, May 20, is Early Care and Education Day at the Capitol, and among those organizations in Baton Rouge today fighting for the importance of funding for this need is the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, which just released some sobering new data on single mothers in the region. UWSELA President and CEO Michael Williamson joins us aga…

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Episode 238: The Opioid Problem Nobody is Talking About 27:22

29d ago27:22

27:22

The opioid epidemic is not just exacerbating our issues with crime, homelessness and public health, it’s also harming our next generation — a warning that local entrepreneur Cammy Livingston is trying to spread by cofounding Generation O: The National Organization for Opioid-Exposed Children, a national nonprofit led by foster/adoptive moms across …

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Episode 237: Big News at the Louisiana Children’s Museum 30:32

1M ago30:32

30:32

On April 29, Louisiana Children's Museum (LCM) announced its receipt of a $2.5 million grant – the largest contribution the museum has received outside of a capital campaign in its almost 40-year history. It will be using the money to expand both its programming and exhibit space to a new audience. Who is this audience and what are they doing? LCM …

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Episode 236: 785% Growth in Two Years? This Local CEO Made It Happen 24:21

1M ago24:21

24:21

After 10 years running her social impact firm, TCG (Thomas Consulting Group) CEO Michelle Thomas was inspired to make some big changes that resulted in phenomenal growth that placed her at No. 15 on the 2025 Inc. list of fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast. She shares her biggest tips for success on this week’s Biz Talks.…

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Episode 235: Organization Called The Boot Is Addressing the Workforce Shortage In a New Way 24:43

2M ago24:43

24:43

Louisiana needs a population and workforce boost — both of which are being addressed by an organization founded last summer called The Boot. CEO Ben Armstrong explains who is involved and how local employers can get in on the action.

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Episode 234: The State of Office Space 28:33

2M ago28:33

28:33

Corporate Realty published the latest (and 13th) version of their Greater New Orleans Annual Office Market Report — which looks at rates and movement within the city’s corporate spaces. To share the highlights of the report’s findings and what they mean for the local economy, we’re joined by Austin Lavin, sales and leasing associate with Corporate …

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Episode 233: The Best Kept Secret in Coffee 28:38

2M ago28:38

28:38

For 100 years, Try-Me Coffee has been operating out of an unassuming building in the Bywater, supplying some of New Orleans’ most iconic restaurants and cafes. In 2023, it was purchased by a local couple (Lauren “Mermaid” McCabe and Abby King) who are determined to spread the word about their unique, roast to order options — so much so that they’ll…

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Episode 232: Tax Talk – Amendment 2 28:30

2M ago28:30

28:30

Voting is going on this week on four amendments to Louisiana’s constitution. One of those, Amendment 2, would be the biggest change to the state’s constitution since it was adopted in 1974. Sanders Colbert, tax attorney with Stone Pigman law firm, explains a bit about what this amendment would mean for local businesses.…

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Episode 231: Startup Noir Nola Mini Summit New Addition to NOEW This Year 24:04

3M ago24:04

24:04

This week we’re starting to get ramped up for the 14th return of New Orleans Entrepreneur Week March 24 - 29. Among many firsts this year will be the first Startup Noir Nola Mini Summit – a free, full-day event focused on celebrating Black entrepreneurs and investors, with a lineup focused on funding, scaling, and breaking barriers to growth. To sh…

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Episode 230: Tulane University COO Speaks Out on Proposed Medical Research Cuts 29:27

3M ago29:27

29:27

The Trump administration is pushing for drastic cuts to medical research around the country — a move that was paused by a federal judge last week pending the results of a lawsuit filed by 22 states. What would cuts mean locally? This week we talked with Patrick Norton, senior VP and COO for Tulane University, who shared what the funding drop would …

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Episode 229: Super Bowl Cleanup – Numbers that Will Shock You 35:28

3M ago35:28

35:28

The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (MCCNO) was completely full during the four days before the Super Bowl, serving as the media center and as home to the Super Bowl Experience that drew more than 100,000 fans. This week, Linda Baynham, director of sustainability and corporate social responsibility at the convention center, as well a…

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Episode 228: A Peek Behind the Curtain at the Saenger Theatre with David Skinner 43:37

4M ago43:37

43:37

Who decides what Broadway shows we'll have and how does it all work? David Skinner, general manager of the Saenger Theatre, answers this, and many other questions about Broadway and the Saenger. After 50 years spent in the live entertainment business, he also shares stories of the one performer that remains his favorite and why.…

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Episode 227: Love Letters to Local Businesses Launches Today 21:27

4M ago21:27

21:27

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, StayLocal, Greater New Orleans’ independent business alliance, is kicking off a fun campaign designed to boost relations between New Orleanians and local businesses, as well as among the businesses themselves. Maryann Miller, StayLocal program manager, shares all the details, including for tonight’s kickoff event. …

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Episode 226: Troy Henry Shares Latest News on Former Six Flags Site 22:17

4M ago22:17

22:17

After 19 years, there is finally hope for the former Six Flags site in New Orleans East thanks to the tenacity of Bayou Phoenix, led by native New Orleanian Troy Henry. Henry shares why the project is a very personal one for him, where it's at in development, and when we'll start to see new development.…

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Episode 225: Status Report with the French Quarter Management District, Pt. 2 16:58

4M ago16:58

16:58

How are businesses and residents feeling in the French Quarter in the wake of the New Year’s terrorist attack? What are the thoughts going into the Super Bowl? How is the French Quarter Management District adapting its efforts? Jane Cooper, chair of the board of commissioners for the French Quarter Management District, shares her thoughts.…

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Episode 224: Status Report with the French Quarter Management District, Pt. 1 19:24

4M ago19:24

19:24

Following the horrific events of New Year’s Eve, Editor Kim Singletary chats with Jane Cooper, chair of the board of commissioners for the French Quarter Management District, to learn about the notable role FQMD plays in the Quarter’s security. Cooper also adds clarification to a recent negative CNN article.…

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Episode 223: Executives of the Year 18:26

5M ago18:26

18:26

This week, editor Kim Singletary shares the year's top executives from around the city, and who grabbed the top spot of CEO of the Year and why.

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Episode 222: Top 10 Stories of 2024 27:15

5M ago27:15

27:15

This week, producer Kelly Massicot interviews host and editor of Biz New Orleans Magazine Kim Singletary about the stories that made headlines in 2024. From healthcare to banking and Taylor Swift, we've got the Top 10 Stories of the year to round out our 2024 season. Thanks for listening to Biz Talks.…

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Episode 221: Amanda and Isaac Toups Are In the Spirit, Pt. 2 17:49

6M ago17:49

17:49

In the second part of our conversation with Amanda and Isaac Toups, the couple share the latest happenings with their nonprofit, Toups Family Meal, including how they, and a growing legion of volunteers, made Halloween and Thanksgiving a little brighter this year. They also share their plans for the upcoming holidays, how you can get involved, and …

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Episode 220: Amanda and Isaac Toups Are In the Spirit, Pt. 1 20:39

6M ago20:39

20:39

Renowned on the culinary scene, chef Isaac Toups is a four-time finalist for James Beard “Best Chef: South” and co-owner of the award-winning restaurant Toups Meatery with his wife, Amanda Toups. Since the pandemic, however, the duo has also co-founded a nonprofit called Toups Family Meal that is dedicated to remedying food insecurity in New Orlean…

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Episode 219: Not Your Parents’ Chamber, Pt. 2 30:24

6M ago30:24

30:24

In the second part of Biz’s conversation with New Orleans Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sandra Lindquist looks at the future of the organization, which includes a can’t miss event on Dec. 12, where the organization will hand out its first-ever award to a local business leader.

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Episode 218: Not Your Parents’ Chamber, Pt. 1 27:26

7M ago27:26

27:26

As the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce celebrates two decades serving area businesses, President and CEO Sandra Lindquist shares how the chamber has evolved to fit the needs of its 1,300 members and growing — including its move into legislative advocacy. She shares details on the chamber’s biggest wins and groundbreaking events.…

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Episode 217: Tulane Hosts First-Ever Energy Forum This Week 36:13

7M ago36:13

36:13

Anyone interested in the future of energy in Louisiana is invited to attend a free, three-day event at Tulane’s Uptown campus Nov. 13-15. This week, Biz talks with the executive director of the Tulane Energy Institute and Tulane Center of Energy Law who share what most excites them about the forum, and the state’s future.…

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Episode 216: Early Education and Childcare – Where Are We At Now? Pt.2 17:53

7M ago17:53

17:53

In the second part of our conversation with Dr. Sonnier at Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, she shares the organization’s plans for the future, including the conversations they’ve been having, and are continuing to have, with area businesses.

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Episode 215: Early Education and Childcare – Where Are We At Now? Pt.1 17:50

7M ago17:50

17:50

Celebrating 10 years this month, the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children is an independent source of data and research on early care and education for young children in the state. CEO Libbie Sonnier shares the biggest successes of the past decade – which have put the state in a surprising spot in state rankings nationwide.…

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Episode 214: Plans for City Park, Pt. 2 29:23

8M ago29:23

29:23

When it comes to input on City Park planning, City Park Conservancy President and CEO Rebecca Dietz joins Bobbie Hill, principal of Concordia, share some of the feedback they’ve received, along with when we can expect to see some new additions in the second part of this two-part conversation.

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Episode 213: Plans for City Park, Pt. 1 18:42

8M ago18:42

18:42

One of the largest urban parks in the country, City Park is one of the city’s brightest jewels. Now halfway through the planning process for the next few decades, City Park Conservancy President and CEO Rebecca Dietz joins Bobbie Hill, principal of Concordia, to discuss how they’re engaging public opinion in new ways in the first part of this two-p…

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Episode 212: 18 Projects to Save Our Coast, Pt. 2 21:15

8M ago21:15

21:15

In the second part of our conversation with Maloz and Trail, we hear about what the Pontchartrain Conservancy is up to and learn more about the status of the lake, along with some of the efforts being made to try and meet the huge need for workforce in coastal restoration.

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Episode 211: 18 Projects to Save Our Coast, Pt. 1 22:08

8M ago22:08

22:08

Simone Maloz, campaign director of the Restore the Mississippi River Delta Coaltion, and Kristi Trail, executive director of the Pontchartrain Conservancy (a member of the coalition) give Biz Talks an update on the state of our coast and what they're doing, and recommending we do, to save it.

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Episode 210: Jay Cicero, Michael Hecht and Marcus Brown Talk Super Bowl Plans, Pt. 2 18:26

8M ago18:26

18:26

The big game is fast approaching, but there is still time for local businesses and industries to start working on how they're going to capitalize on the worldwide attention the Super Bowl will bring. In the second part of this conversation, members of the Super Bowl Host Committee share what excites them most about the opportunities.…

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Episode 209: Jay Cicero, Michael Hecht and Marcus Brown Talk Super Bowl Plans, Pt. 1 23:53

9M ago23:53

23:53

With the Super Bowl coming to New Orleans in less than five months, the pressure is on for the Super Bowl Host Committee to make sure the welcome mat is rolled out. This week, we chat with the stars of Biz New Orleans' September issue, who are all playing crucial positions in making sure the region takes home a big win.…

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Episode 208: Storm Prep Tips You Probably Haven’t Thought About 17:26

9M ago17:26

17:26

Evan Canzoneri the safety services consultant for LWCC, a private, nonprofit mutual insurance company and the largest workers’ compensation carrier in Louisiana, has spent a decade in risk management and prevention working with businesses across Louisiana. In this week’s podcast, he shares the best practices and tips he advises to keep you and your…

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Episode 207: Kevin Alker Previews the Grand Opening of Old Alker Distillery 33:47

10M ago33:47

33:47

A premium whiskey or rum takes a few years to reach peak quality, and the same may be true for a distillery itself. On today’s episode, Old Alker Distillery owner Kevin Alker talks about the six years he spent bringing his new venture to the marketplace. Old Alker celebrates its grand opening on Aug. 2 and 3 at 8304 Oak St. Ryan Guillory, Old Alker…

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Episode 206: Conversation with New & Notable and Touro CEO Dr. Christopher Lege 21:34

11M ago21:34

21:34

A member of the Biz New Orleans New & Notables class of 2024, Dr. Christopher Lege became the official CEO of Touro in April. A 20-year primary care physician at Touro prior to this appointment, Lege talks about his move into the realm of hospital administration at a time when Touro is recovering from the pandemic and focusing in on new programs fo…

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Episode 205: James Martin Previews Louisiana’s First Wind Turbine 29:43

11M ago29:43

29:43

In April, a wind turbine and its components arrived in Louisiana after a transatlantic journey from Ireland. Gulf Wind Technology is preparing the onshore turbine for installation at the Port Fourchon Coastal Wetlands Park. Initial deployment and testing of the equipment is slated to begin late this year. GWT founder James Martin leads Biz New Orle…

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Episode 204: Tulane’s Fariba Mamaghani Explains How Utilities Can Build Electric Grids That Can Withstand Extreme Weather events 26:10

11M ago26:10

26:10

Electric grids in Louisiana and nationwide are aging. Meanwhile, extreme weather events are increasing. That means utilities need to invest in new technologies to prevent dangerous and expensive power outages during and after storms. On this week’s episode, Tulane professor Fariba Mamaghani shares her research on the subject.…

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Episode 203: Who is the Organization That Just Gave A High School Senior A Car? 24:00

11M ago24:00

24:00

For the second year in a row, a lucky high school senior received a free car thanks to an organization called NOLA Black Wall Street. The organization's main mission, however, is lowering the enormous racial wealth gap in the region. How are they doing this? Founder Goldie Gasper shares all the details, including big news for next year's giveaway.…

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Episode 202: Pastor Shawn Anglim Talks Community Lighthouses 23:35

11M ago23:35

23:35

In this week’s episode, Pastor Shawn Anglim, a clergy leader with Together New Orleans, talks about the origin and status of the Community Lighthouse project. An initiative of Together New Orleans, the project aims to provide commercial-scale solar power and back-up battery capacity to 86 congregations and community institutions throughout the city…

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Episode 201: A Look At The New Orleans Themed Disney World Ride 29:35

12M ago29:35

29:35

Based on the 2009 hit animated film "The Princess and the Frog," Tiana's Bayou Adventure opens June 28 at Walt Disney World Florida. "Biz Talks" team members Kelly Massicot and Kim Singletary attended the media preview, along with many well-known New Orleanians. In this week's episode, they share their take on the three-day event that drew media fr…

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Episode 200: Lawyer Michelle Craig Looks at Louisiana’s New Laws 25:46

12M ago25:46

25:46

This week, attorney Michelle Craig of Transcendent Law Group talks about how the active 2024 legislative session will alter Louisiana’s legal landscape — from a ban on transgendered bathrooms in schools to new rules for emotional support animals. A slate of new laws will bring big changes for the state’s schools, businesses and citizens.…

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Episode 199: Bocuse D’Or and the Pastry World Cup 25:08

1y ago25:08

25:08

The Olympics of food service, the Bocuse D’Or and the Pastry World Cup have never been held in America since their founding in 1987. From June 11-13, these prestigious events will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. New Orleans & Company Executive Vice President Alice Glenn shares all the details.…

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Episode 198: Dr. Joe Ramos Talks About Cancer Care in Louisiana 25:17

1y ago25:17

25:17

Louisiana has a higher incidence of cancer and a lower rate of survival than most states, so it’s more important than ever for the state’s healthcare providers to coordinate efforts to improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The director of the LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center and director and CEO of the Louisiana Cancer Research Center breaks do…

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Episode 197: The Fight for the Right to THC 26:47

1y ago26:47

26:47

If passed, Louisiana Senate Bill 237 would eliminate virtually all hemp products from the market, killing what has fast become a $33 million industry spurred by the booming popularity of THC-infused beverages. On this week’s podcast, hemp industry advocate Monica Olano shares who is behind the bill and why she thinks it would be a bad move for Loui…

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Episode 196: Kevin Ferguson Discusses the Home For Good New Orleans Homeless Initiative 23:34

1y ago23:34

23:34

Kevin Ferguson, a VP at New Orleans & Company, provides an update on the Home For Good New Orleans Homeless Initiative, a community-wide effort to achieve low to no unsheltered homelessness in New Orleans by the end of 2025.

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Episode 195: Affordable Health Coverage for Hospitality Workers is Here 24:38

1y ago24:38

24:38

NOLA native Elizabeth Tilton is shaking things up in hospitality by offering up an industry first — easy, affordable health insurance and other wellness benefits to hospitality workers around the nation through her company OS BENEFiTS. How does it work and how affordable are we talking? She shares all the details in this week’s BizTalks.…

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Episode 194: Courtney Durham Shane and Cam Poole Are ‘Jazzed’ About the Future of Offshore Wind Energy in Louisiana 23:49

1y ago23:49

23:49

Courtney Durham Shane from Pew Charitable Trusts and Cam Poole from Greater New Orleans Inc discuss a report that contains recommendations to help boost jobs and economic development related to offshore wind in Louisiana.

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Episode 193: From Real Estate Mogul to Live Theater Producer 30:39

1y ago30:39

30:39

New York City native and real estate mogul Charles D. Urstadt fell for New Orleans’ rich culture when he moved here eight years ago. Last year, Urstadt joined with fellow New Orleanian and veteran Tony Award-winning producer Dale Mott to form a new live theater company called Edgewood Entertainment focused on producing works by authors from margina…

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Episode 192: Dawn Bradley-Fletcher Talks About Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness 28:29

1y ago28:29

28:29

On April 14, the New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter officially cut the ribbon on a new home in Mid-City. The converted hotel will allow the shelter to grow its services for homeless families in the metro area and double its sheltering capacity. On this week’s podcast, NOWCS CEO Dawn Bradley-Fletcher talks about why this move will help the city …