Lewis and Broad: Recent Episodes
Lewis and Broad
Lewis and Broad Media is a storytelling ministry that is a part of First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange based in LaGrange, GA. We are here to share the lives and tales of people and local organizations that deserve a voice. Our goal is to tell of the amazing opportunities that people have to volunteer and explore their gifts.
What keeps someone running year after year?
In this episode of Lewis & Broad, Jenna sits down with longtime distance runner, mom, and outdoor enthusiast Leah Fritchley to explore how running became more than just exercise. Together, they talk about the lessons found along the miles, balancing motherhood with making time for yourself, the power of community, and why chasing joy is always worth the effort.
Whether you're training for your next race, thinking about signing up for your first 5K, or simply looking for encouragement to pursue a hobby that fills your cup, this conversation is for you.
What happens when a hobby becomes part of who you are?
This week on Lewis & Broad, Jenna sits down with Brianna Drake to talk about her lifelong love of dance and the joy it continues to bring to her life. From dancing on the Troy University dance line to mentoring young dancers today, Brianna shares how movement, creativity, and community have shaped her journey.
Together, they explore why hobbies matter, how dance creates connection, and what it looks like to make space for joy in a world that often pushes us to turn everything into work.
Whether you're a dancer, artist, athlete, or simply someone looking to reconnect with what brings you life, this conversation is for you.
This week on Lewis & Broad, Jenna sits down with Qua Reid, a state champion powerlifter whose hobby and joy is found in the gym. From lifting and running 5Ks to training Jiu Jitsu, Qua talks about discipline, confidence, and how fitness became more than just a routine.
What started as working out turned into something deeper — a place of growth, consistency, and purpose. This conversation is all about strength, showing up for yourself, and finding joy in the process.
At some point, everything started needing a purpose.
In this solo episode, Jenna talks about the quiet shift from doing things for joy… to doing things for productivity—and how, for many moms, even taking time for yourself can come with a layer of guilt.
Why does doing something “just because” feel so hard?
And what would it look like to give yourself permission to enjoy something again… with no outcome attached?
In Episode 2 of Season 9, we sit down with local photographer Pat Briggs to talk about photography as a hobby and a lifelong passion. From capturing wildlife on safari to moments on the sidelines, Pat shares how photography has shaped the way he sees the world and why supporting the arts matters in a community like LaGrange.
This week on Lewis & Broad, Jenna Eady talks with local watercolor artist Fiona Westmoreland about creativity, hobbies, and finding joy through art. Fiona shares how her love for watercolor grew into designs she now shares with others through cups, digital art, school items, and more.
Season 9 of Lewis & Broad explores the hobbies that shape us — the things we do simply because they bring us joy. Hosted by Jenna Eady, this season dives into the passions we pursue off the clock and how they quietly form who we are. From early morning runs to creative spaces and quiet rituals, these stories are rooted in community, curiosity, and the ordinary rhythms of life.
This week on Lewis and Broad, we welcome Dr. Joy Baker, board-certified OB/GYN and advocate for women’s health and equity. From physical and mental wellbeing to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care, Dr. Baker shares honest insights on what it means to truly care for women—mind, body, and spirit.
In this episode of Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Thomas Martin sit down with Susan Marshall, founder and owner of The Center for Mindful Exploration. Susan shares her journey of creating a space dedicated to holistic healing—one that nurtures both the mind and spirit. With a belief in the interconnectedness of all things, she has built an environment where people can find safety, stillness, and support on their path toward wholeness.
As a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and EMDR Consultant-in-Training, Susan brings deep expertise and compassion to her work. Tune in as she discusses mindfulness, trauma healing, and what it means to hold space for others in a fast-paced, often disconnected world.
In Season 8, Episode 5 of Lewis and Broad, we sit down with Sue Landa, a runner who proves age is just a number. Now in her 70s, Sue has completed world-class races including Berlin, Boston, and New York, qualifying for Boston multiple times. Training with the Atlanta Track Club, she shares her journey of running with joy, the discipline behind her success, and how she continues to inspire women of all ages to chase their goals. This episode is a celebration of resilience, passion, and the power of simply putting one foot in front of the other.
In this episode of Lewis and Broad, we welcome Jake Howard, Clinic Director and Physical Therapist at Emory, and former baseball player. Jake shares how his athletic background shaped his passion for movement and how he now helps patients stay active and healthy at every stage of life. From sports to daily living, he reminds us that consistent movement is one of the best tools for long-term wellness.
In this episode, we welcome Kane Bradfield, founder of Clockwork Performance Training and former professional arena football player. Kane shares how his athletic background fuels his passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about discipline, mindset, and transforming health and wellness into a sustainable lifestyle.
In this episode of Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Thomas Martin continue Season 8’s focus on health and wellness with a deep dive into the world of high school athletics. They sit down with Beth Anania, Head Athletic Trainer at LaGrange High School, to explore the vital role athletic trainers play in student health, injury prevention, and recovery.
Beth shares insights from her day-to-day work on the sidelines and in the training room and discusses the physical and mental demands placed on young athletes. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode sheds light on the often-overlooked professionals keeping our students safe and strong.
This season on Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Thomas Martin dive deep into the theme of health and wellness, uncovering powerful stories that inspire healing, connection, and hope. From local voices making a difference in their communities to experts sharing practical wisdom, Season 8 brings together diverse perspectives on what it means to be truly well—body, mind, and spirit.
We're excited to shine a spotlight on the people and practices shaping a healthier future, right here in our own backyard!
Season 7 Finale of Lewis and Broad: A Conversation with Trailblazer Kay Durand
We’ve reached the exciting conclusion of Season 7 of the Lewis and Broad podcast, and what a finale it is! Hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts interview a true LaGrange legend—Kay Durand, the city’s first-ever female city councilwoman.
Kay Durand is a trailblazer who made history in LaGrange, serving not only in city government but also on numerous nonprofit boards throughout her life. A devoted member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Kay attributes much of her leadership to her deep faith.
In this powerful conversation, Kay reflects on her journey as a leader, the challenges she faced, and how her faith guided her through it all. Don’t miss this inspiring finale to Season 7!
Listen to the episode now at lewisandbroad.org or on your favorite podcast platform.
🎙️ In Season 7, Episode 7 of the Lewis and Broad podcast, hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts interview Holly Roberts and Sherri Brown, leaders from Circles of Troup County. Circles exists to eliminate the causes of poverty through a relational approach, supporting both parents and children in their journey out of poverty while inspiring the entire community to work together to reduce poverty rates.
It’s an inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss! Listen now on lewisandbroad.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more about Circles at: https://circlesoftroup.org
Leadership #Community #EndPoverty #LewisAndBroad
Season 7 of the Lewis and Broad podcast continues with another engaging episode! This week, host James Goodlet is joined by guest host Jan Tolbert for a special interview with Dr. Rachel Hazel, the new superintendent of the Troup County School System.
In this episode, Dr. Hazel opens up about her journey in leadership, the challenges and opportunities she faces within the school system, and how her faith plays a central role in her approach to guiding others.
Welcome to Season 7, Episode 5 of Lewis and Broad! This week, hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts sit down with Dr. Traviera Sewell, Assistant Principal of Long Cane Middle School. Dr. Sewell opens up about her journey in educational leadership, the unique challenges she faces as a woman in her role, and the strategies she employs to overcome adversity. Join us for an insightful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the impact of strong female role models in education.
In the latest episode of the Lewis and Broad Podcast, hosts Adam Roberts and James Goodlet welcome Dr. Lindsey Robinson, a standout local leader and the owner of The Local Chiropractic. Dr. Lindsey, a proud LaGrange native, has deep roots in the community. After earning her degree in Exercise Science from LaGrange College in 2015 and her Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University in 2019, she returned to her hometown to make a significant impact.
This episode, part of Season 7's focus on leadership, explores Dr. Lindsey’s journey from a dedicated student to a respected business owner and community advocate. Listeners will gain valuable insights into her approach to leadership, her commitment to holistic health, and her experiences balancing her professional and personal life as a new mother and pet owner.
Tune in to hear how Dr. Lindsey’s local upbringing and educational background have shaped her leadership style and contributed to her success in the field of chiropractic care. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about leadership, community, and the power of local influence.
In this insightful episode of Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts sit down with Dr. Brian Peterson, the Vice President for Academic Affairs at LaGrange College. Together, they explore the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education, both pre and post-crisis.
Join James and Adam as they uncover the dynamic ways in which LaGrange College is evolving and thriving under Dr. Peterson's leadership, and discover how these changes are shaping the next generation of scholars and leaders.
In this episode of Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts sit down with City of LaGrange Mayor Jim Arrington for an in-depth discussion about leadership and community development. Mayor Arrington shares his personal journey of growing up in LaGrange, his vision for the city, and the challenges and opportunities facing LaGrange today. Tune in for an insightful conversation about what it means to lead with purpose, the future of LaGrange, and the ways in which the city is evolving under his guidance
In the premiere of Season 7 of Lewis and Broad, hosts James Goodlet and Adam Roberts welcome Dr. Nick Griffin, a distinguished community advocate devoted to the youth of Troup County. Dr. Griffin discusses his passionate efforts to support and uplift local students, sharing insights into his role as a mentor and the transformative impact he's making. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about community service, youth empowerment, and the bright future he envisions for Troup County's younger generation.
Welcome to our Season 6 Finale of Lewis and Broad! We have had a blast this season learning more about our community and the legacy that it has built over the hundreds of years. What a season this has been!
On today's episode, Connie and Chalton Askew joined us to shed light on the importance of education and their experiences growing up in this community. They have a passion for collaboration across racial barriers and differences, and this passion was shaped by their life experiences. They also share how our community can continue to grow and learn in the realms surrounding race and education. Go give it a listen!
S6E6 is live! Have you ever wondered what a mill village looked like? How they were run, and what a typical day was like? LaGrange's history was built on the foundation of textile mills and these mill villages. Ricky Wolfe was born and raised in the Dunson Mill Village, and on today's episode, he takes us back in time and shares what his childhood was like and what the Dunson Mill Village looked like.
Ricky is the founder of DASH, Dependable, Affordable, Sustainable Housing. DASH is a non-profit that aims to bring back the essence and charms of these mill villages. He shares information about DASH in the episode, and for more information on DASH, you can find it here.
S6E5 is live! On today's episode, Kathy Tilley of Visit LaGrange joined us to share the importance tourism has on our community and how we have grown as a must-see small town. Visit LaGrange is a downtown tourist hub and shares stories of the local ammenities that we offer. For more information on Visit LaGrange, visit their website here.
ATTN: Kathy also shares never-before-shared info on Visit LaGrange's latest project, Mulberry St. Cemetery. We don't want to give an spoilers away, so be sure to give a listen for some insider info! Talk about a big deal!
S6E4 is live! On today's episode, we invited special guest Dr. Willie Edmondson to share his perspective on the history of LaGrange and how it has changed over the years. Dr. Edmondson is the first black mayor of LaGrange, and he wears this honor with dignity and strength. Dr. Edmondson grew up in the community, and he shared stories from childhood of advocating for persons of color and the legacy he began building for himself at a young age. Dr. Edmondson is also a preacher of a Bethlehem Baptist Church in West Point, GA. Be sure to give this episode a listen!
Welcome back to Lewis and Broad! This epsiode makes up the third of Season 6, the history of LaGrange. Mrs. Felecia Moore is the Interim Director at the Frank and Lewis Library at LaGrange College. She is the Archives Specialist, and man, does she know her stuff! She takes great pride in preserving the history of this community and bringing stories of the past to life. She published a book last year entitled, "Time for a Haircut," that is about the Hamilton Road neighborhood here in LaGrange. Give this week's episode a listen!
Welcome back to Lewis and Broad! This week we interviewed Anton Flores-Maisonet and learned about the Redline Alley and Mona Lane communities. Mona Lane was previously known as the Goose Holler Neighborhood. Both Mona Lane and Redline Alley have a long-standing history of housing marginalized communities. Redline Alley backs the Callway Mansion and property, and many of its residents worked at the Callaway Mansion many years ago.
Anton lives in Decatur, GA, where he is the founder and director of Casa Alterna, a non-profit organization that offers hospitality to our asylum-seeking neighbors.
ATTN: Anton mentions an interview with long-standing resident, Mattie Boddie. There is a snippet of this interview at the end of the episode. If you would like to watch the interview and learn more about Ms. Mattie, please visit this link: https://vimeo.com/279465182. We have acquired this video through Troup County Archives and Henry Jacobs.
For more information on Casa Alterna, please visit their website.
We're back!! Lewis and Broad is back and we are ready for Season 6 and all that it has to offer.
For this season, James and Laura will be going back in time and exploring the history behind LaGrange. We will be sharing stories from the past and how this town got to be where it is today. We are so excited for what's in store and can't wait to share it with you all!
Happy 50!! This episode is no. 50 for Lewis and Broad!
This week our special guest is Tabitha Lewis-Coverson with Communities In Schools. Communities In Schools, "... is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of race, gender, ability, zip code, or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond. Communities In Schools works by bringing community resources directly into schools through embedding a trained local coordinator whose sole focus is helping connect students with additional supports to help them learn, advance in grade level and graduate." On this week's episode, Tabitha shares the hands-on work both she and her Site Coordinators do to help students succeed, challenges that students face every day, and statistics of current trends regarding students and graduation. For more information about Communities In Schools, visit their website.
Happy Wednesday! This week on Lewis and Broad, special guests Patty Solomon and Cammie Long of Solomon's Department Store joined us to share their family history and the history of Solomon's. Solomon's is a staple of LaGrange and has been in LaGrange for nearly 100 years! Patty and Cammie share the struggles that Solomon's has faced over the years and how it has stayed strong to its roots and prevailed. Head over to Bull Street and visit Solomon's! Tell Patty that Lewis and Broad sent you-she'll love it!
Join us on this week's episode to hear an interview with special guests Violet and Miriam Oropeza! Violet is our Production Director at FPC, and her mom Miriam owns the Royal Dance Academy in downtown LaGrange. Violet and her mom are both from Mexico and moved to LaGrange when Violet was only three years old. In addition to working as our Production Director, Violet works for the school system as an ESOL paraprofessional and teaches Hispanic children English. What an incredible full-circle moment for her! Tune in to the episode to hear more about Violet's and Miriam's experience living and growing up in LaGrange and what it is like for Miriam to own and operate a dance studio.
Join us on this week's episode with special guests CJ and Lacy Tumambing! CJ and Lacy work in the medical/healthcare field as a pediatrician and a family medicine doctor. Lacy works at the Wellstar Children's Clinic, and CJ works at Hometown Family Medicine. Both natives of LaGrange, CJ and Lacy attended the University of Georgia for undergrad and then the Medical College of Georgia. Knowing they wanted to practice medicine in the town they grew up, they moved back to LaGrange post-medical school and started the journey of giving back to the community that raised them. Tune in to the episode to hear their take on current health trends, what it's like for a married couple working in the medical field, and suggestions for how to live a healthier life. See ya next week!
Join us for Season 5, Episode 2 of the Lewis and Broad podcast! This week's episode is about Vernon Woods, a local retirement community. We invited Patricia Rogers, Sales Director of Vernon Woods, to share the history of Vernon Woods and how it has become a family for its residents. It truly is a community built of neighbors and friends alike. We wanted to touch on all aspects of family for Season 5, and Vernon Woods hits the nail on the head for a family built on community.
Join us on today's episode with special guest Joey Karvelas! Joey and his family own an incredibly successful local pizza joint, "Karvelas Pizza Company." Starting in Hogansville, Karvelas has expanded into LaGrange, West Point, Newnan, and soon Opelika! Karvelas offers delicious wings with a wide range of sauces, fresh salads, and authentic pizzas with names that tie back to the family and community. Tune in to today's episode as Joey shares his story, the history of the restaurant, and what it is like working with food and family. I promise it won't take long before you hear about his passion for pizza-making and family!
The Lewis and Broad Podcast is back!! Hold onto your socks because they are about to get knocked off with this season.
Season 5 is all about families, family-owned businesses, and family connections. Tune in to today's episode to hear more info.
Happy Wednesday from Lewis and Broad. We have a full house in the studio today! Special guests Kim Myers, Director of Get Troup Reading, Gail Gordon, Success by Six Coordinator, and Nicole Kennedy, TCSS Parent and Family Engagement Coordinator, join us. In today's episode, Kim, Gail, and Nicole share what each of their respective areas/organizations is doing to advocate for children and literacy in the LaGrange community. In looking at Get Troup Reading's website, "...the 2019 Georgia Milestones Assessment System testing, 35% of Troup County third graders are reading below grade level." Literacy and "reading on grade level" are crucial needs for children, and the work these organizations are doing is outstanding. For more information, check out their website : Get Troup Reading.
This week on Lewis and Broad, we have special guest, Jordan Child, with Kids Zone Behavioral Health. Jordan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Kids Zone is a local treatment facility that provides mental health services for both children and families. On today's episode, Jordan shares the work Kids Zone does for advocating for children's mental health and what she witnesses in our community as a mental health advocate and therapist. She also gives her opinion on the intersection of faith and therapy. For more information about Kids Zone, please visit their website.
Welcome back to Lewis and Broad! On this week's episode, we have the Chapter President, Greg Watts, from Sleep in Heavenly Peace join us to share the mission behind Sleep in Heavenly Peace and how the organization advocates for children in our community. Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a non-profit organization that builds and delivers beds to children who do not have a bed. FPC Students had the pleasure of hosting a build day this past Sunday, and man, is it an awesome and humble experience! The work this organization does for our community does not go unnoticed and matches a need that is oftentimes overlooked. For more information on Sleep in Heavenly Peace, check out their Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/SHPLaGrange.
Welcome back to Lewis and Broad! On this week's episode, we have Safe Families' Program Director, Brooke Bryant, with us to share the work Safe Families does for children in our community. This episode kicks off the advocacy portion of Season 4, where we invite organizations in our community that advocate for children's welfare and their needs. Safe Families does this by assisting families in crisis: "Safe Families provide a safe home for children and a supportive community for parents while they get back on their feet. Parents are provided with the space and support they need to address the issues impacting their ability to provide the best environment for their children." To learn more about Safe Families, check out their website at https://www.twincedars.org/program/sffc/.
Join us for today's episode as special guest Laura Jennings, Executive Director of the LaGrange Art Museum, shares the art museum's role in our community. It is not only an outlet for artists to showcase their art but also an educational haven for children to learn and practice art. The art museum offers numerous classes focusing on all types of art, such as painting, cooking, and printmaking. These classes teach the practice of each craft, as well as critiquing skills and the history behind the art. Laura explains the importance art has for children and how crucial it is for children to express their creativity. For more information about the LaGrange Art Museum, please visit https://lagrangeartmuseum.org/.
Join us today with special guest Kerry Whaley from the Troup County Parks and Recreation Center to hear what they offer for children in the community. Kerry is the Superintendent of Athletics at the rec center. As part of his job, Kerry manages all athletic programs and heads up all game officials. In today's episode, Kerry shares the important role the rec center plays in our community for children and both future and current plans the rec center has for expansion. The rec center is currently in the middle of its Fall Season, but registration for the Winter Season opens soon. For more information on the Troup County Parks and Recreation Center, go to http://www.trouprec.org.
We are back, everybody! Season 4 of Lewis and Broad is here! Today's episode is a little teaser of what's to come for the next couple of months. In case you haven't heard, we are talking about CHILDREN this season. Be sure to tune in!
Join us on today's episode for Lewis and Broad's Season Three Finale and Jan's last episode as a co-host! We recapped the amazing success of ListenLaGrange and invited Maggie McDonald, owner of Pure Life House of Music, to the studio to share her thoughts on the afternoon and more about Pure Life. Pure Life House of Music is "a true listening room featuring hidden treasures to legendary singers/songwriters and their original works."
With this being Jan's last episode as a co-host, she gave us some insight into what she believes digital ministry to be and the success Lewis and Broad has come to claim. Don't let her fool you-she's enjoyed podcasting with us.
https://www.purelifelagrange.com
This week's feature on Lewis and Broad is Alyese Cross! Alyese is the Music and Arts teacher at Hollis Hand Elementary and an alum of both LaGrange College and Belmont University. Alyese has a huge heart for teaching and loves teaching children music. She feels incredibly honored to give back to her students, just as her teachers poured into her. To learn more about Alyese, listen to this week's episode!
This week's feature on Lewis and Broad is Daniel Toole! Daniel is from small-town Millen, GA, and moved to the area a few years back. He is a full-time singer-songwriter and has toured just about anywhere and everywhere. Daniel takes pride in his songs and many of the lyrics he writes. He has a love of words and the meanings that they often convey. Listen to this week's episode to learn more about Daniel!
This week on Lewis and Broad, LaGrange College student Lauren Hicks joined us to share her journey with music. Lauren is a senior at LaGrange College and graduates this upcoming May. In today's episode, she shares what it is like for a college student both studying music and producing music and the challenges she has faced since COVID.
Her music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms!
Lauren will be performing at "ListenLaGrange," a music festival to fight poverty, on May 1 from 2:00-6:00 PM at Pure Life Studios! "ListenLaGrange," is a benefit music festival, and 100% of the donations go to support Circles of Troup County.
This week on Lewis and Broad, local musician and entrepreneur Kevin Dunn joined us to share his gift of singing and his ministry at West Georgia Hospice. That's right, Kevin actually sings for us on today's episode! Kevin volunteers his gift of voice for the patients and families at Hospice, and his story is quite remarkable. You're in for a treat! Check out more of Kevin's music below.
Spotify, Amazon Music, Facebook, and Apple Music
Don't forget to mark your calendars for May 1st! Lewis and Broad is presenting, "ListenLaGrange," a music festival to fight poverty. "ListenLaGrange" will be at Pure Life Studios and is benefiting Circles of Troup County.
Lewis and Broad is back! Season 3 is here and we are so excited exploring another fact of LaGrange's culture. This season is all about local music and local musicians from our community, and today's subject is Corbin Hoats! Corbin was born and raised in West Point, GA, and now makes up half of the duo, "PeachMotif," with Steffi Ledbetter. Tune in to hear more about Corbin and his background of music, as well as his true appreciation for the art. Don't forget to read our article!
https://lewisandbroad.org/blog/azv7gdqecv6tmt2x2tyfqre2uwh027
This week's episode is Lewis and Broad's Season 2 finale! This season has flown by, and we have had a blast talking and sharing different foods of LaGrange. We couldn't end the season without talking about the town jewel: Charlie Joseph's. Charlie Joseph's is a local hotdog and hamburger joint and has been in LaGrange for over 100 years! Stephen Keith, owner/operator of the downtown location, joined us to share what he loves about Charlie Joseph's and how family and community-oriented the business is. Such a fantastic story to wrap up Season 2! Until January, folks!
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad for an interview with Cody Nix, owner of LaGrange Farmer's Market. Cody's family has been in the grocery business for generations, going all the way back to his great-grandfather. In todays episode, Cody talks about what it's like owning a community market. Cody mentions that one aspect they do their best in achieving is selling quality grown produce. He speaks a little into the organic and GMO debate, as well!
Be sure to read Rev. Adam Robert's article, published on our website!
- https://lewisandbroad.org/blog/wme75xnpj5qv451b3i1nsmgzph1v0j
This week on Lewis and Broad, we are talking all about good southern food and the famous Shirley Strickland of Shirley's Restaurant in LaGrange and Shirley's Country Kitchen in Newnan. Shirley found her love of cooking as a child and has not stopped since. After opening two restaurants, she has her recipes down to a science, and to hear her talk about them is a treat in of itself. Tune in this week to hear Shirley's story and some of her classics at her restaurants.
- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shirley's%20Country%20Kitchen/345772449161308/
- https://lewisandbroad.org/blog/r29s8e4y477t3n9sh6go9dhbt731by
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad to hear all about a local farm and CSA organization known as the Jenny Jack Farm. Chris Jackson, co-founder with his wife Jenny, shared what it's like owning a micro-farm in small-town Pine Mountain, Georgia, just outside of LaGrange. The Jacksons hold a philosophy of "less is better" at Jenny Jack, and he explains how they live out that mentality. Below is a link to their website, as well as our brand-new website!
- https://lewisandbroad.org
- https://www.jennyjackfarm.com
Welcome back to Season 2 of Lewis and Broad, everybody! We are super pumped to be back and can't for y'all to see what we have in store for y'all with Season 2.
Today, Alex Brown, co-owner of Sweet Roast Cafe, joined us to talk about Sweet Roast, its story, and the plans they have for its future. Sweet Roast Cafe is a coffee shop located in downtown LaGrange, Georgia, and it offers varieties of sweet baked goods, coffee, teas, and lunch items. Be sure to check it out!!
Also-check out our newly made and published website! Link is below.
- https://lewisandbroad.org
Welcome to the Season Finale of Season 1 of Lewis and Broad!
To wrap up this season, we invited Dr. Brian Shumate, Superintendent of Troup County Schools, to come and talk with us about this past year and what it has looked like for education. In today's episode, he shares with us how he came to Troup County, his thoughts on virtual schooling, and his dreams for our school system.
As always, don't forget to read this week's accompanying article, written by Judy Gilliam.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/lessons-learned
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad to hear what life is like for small-town journalists. The names that appear below the headline and on Facebook are more than just names; they are people and they are lives that live here in our community.
In today's episode, April Ross of BeeTV Network and Daniel Evans of LaGrange Daily News and the Valley Times share their struggles and their reasons for why they love their work. BeeTV Network is accessible through Facebook Live, and the page link is below.
- https://www.facebook.com/theaprilrossshow
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad
This week on Lewis and Broad, LaGrange Police Chief Lou Dekmar and Rev. Adam Roberts of LaGrange College joined our conversation to discuss the work the LaGrange Police Department does in our community, the culture that Cheif Dekmar has instilled in his officers, and the racial tensions that have heightened between police officers and the public.
In the episode, Chief Dekmar mentions a few of the social justice programs that the department has for our community. You can find more info on these programs in Rev. Adam Roberts' article, linked below. Chief Dekmar's article, mentioned at the beginning of the episode, is also linked below.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/policing-lagrange-partnerships-trust-and-safety-for-all-of-us
- https://www.ajc.com/news/opinion/opinion-flawed-culture-not-police-training-led-floyd-death/n0GnEzVqtwptsx9EGrzmaK/
Throughout Season 1 of Lewis and Broad, one theme has run true, and that is the legacy and impact that the Callaway Foundation has had on our community. As we wrap up Season 1 these next few weeks, we felt it necessary to invite Tripp Penn on our podcast and ask him to share more about the work the Foundation does.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad
- https://www.callawayfoundation.org
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad for a conversation with Mike Wilson, CEO of New Ventures, Inc. to hear all about the work he and the organization do with providing for the homeless population in our community. Wilson is also involved with the Homeless Coalition here in Troup County. He mentions New Ventures' latest project, The Assessment Center, which will have a three-pronged approach in helping those who are marginalized.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/fjbulruseb6idfeeakwxesvis663mv
- https://www.newventures.org
- https://www.tchomeless.com
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad for a conversation about a community-wide program, "Leave LaGrange Better Than You Found It," that focuses on litter clean-up and keeping our town clean. City Councilman Nathan Gaskin and City Manager Meg Kelsey shared their hopes for our community moving forward and the program's success in jumpstarting a culture change towards stewardship. Rev. Allen Pruitt of St. Mark's Episcopal Church shared his thoughts on the theology behind creation and what it means to be a good steward of our home.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/community-stewardship-this-home-is-our-home
- Friday, April 23rd, is the city holiday, "Leave LaGrange Better Than You Found It." From 8 AM- 1 PM, city employees will be picking up trash along the gateways into our community.
This week on Lewis and Broad we had special guests Stacey Hardigree, Kerri Vice, and Laura Jennings to talk about the arts community here in LaGrange. Hardigree is the Artistic Director and Conductor of Young Singers of West GA, Vice is the Executive Director of Lafayette Society for Performing Arts (LSPA), and Jennings is the Executive Director of The LaGrange Art Museum. Below is contact information on all of their respective organizations.
- http://www.lsparts.org
- http://www.lsparts.org/yswg/index.html
- https://lagrangeartmuseum.org
Don't forget to read the article for this week!
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/1dltxqhe283ai3cctk5pl911x1g4cw
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad for a conversation with Dr. Roy Nicholls, a retired Superintendent, about a mission outreach program of First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange, the DeCelle Morning Ministry. The DeCelle Morning Ministry aims to get people back on their feet and live their version of a sustainable life. Dr. Nicholls speaks a little bit about his background in education and the hopes he has for this community moving forward!
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/decelle-morning-ministry
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/howtoserve
This week on Lewis and Broad, Michelle Beddingfield, the Director of Harmony House, joined us to share the work Harmony House does in our community. Harmony House is an organization that provides around-the-clock safety and protection for men, women, and children affected by domestic violence.
If you, or anyone you know, lives in fear of abuse, tell someone. Make your voice heard.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/domestic-violence-and-the-faith-community
- Michelle mentions two phone numbers in the podcast. They are here:
- Main: (706)-885-1525
- Outreach: (706) 882-4173
- Facebook: Harmony House Domestic Violence Shelter
- http://www.harmonyhousega.org
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad for a conversation about what it means to be the neighbor that Jesus calls us to be. FPC has launched a Community Grants initiative, so tune in to hear more details and what those chosen organizations plan to do!
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad
This week on Lewis and Broad, we brought on Rev. Dr. Adam Roberts of LaGrange College, Garrett Wallace, and Kylie Taunton Wallace to discuss what it means to be a leader in an almost post-pandemia world. Garrett and Kylie are LC Alum, newly married, and forging their careers as ICU Nurse and Pastor. Adam mentored the two of them during their time at LaGrange College. Tune in to hear the parallels in their careers, the struggles they face, and their advice to current college students.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad to hear all about United Way and its work in our community. Patty Youngblood, the president of United Way of West GA, hopped on the conversation to share United Way's history, its programs in the LaGrange area, and the dreams she has for the organization.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/what-is-united-way-anyway
- https://unitedwaywga.org
This week on Lewis and Broad, Rev. Allen Pruitt of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, and Joyce Morgan, a co-founder and co-chair of the Azalea Storytelling Festival, joined us to talk about the art of storytelling. Here at Lewis and Broad, we are a storytelling ministry that aims to connect people to people, and organizations to organizations. The Azalea Storytelling Festival is an annual event where hundreds of people gather to do the same - tell stories and make connections.
- http://www.lsparts.org/azalea/2019%20ASF%20Festival.html
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/the-magic-of-storytelling
James references a Ted Talk with Chimamanda Adichi. Below is the link.
- https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?language=en
Tune in this week to hear an interview with Vinnie Shank, a Volunteer Coordinator for CASA, which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. Vinnie describes what CASA is, how to get involved with the organization, and its troubles in caring for foster children. She also lifts up resources and other agencies that CASA works hand in hand with, and their websites are below, as well as contact information for CASA.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/a-childs-voice
- https://casaoftroupcounty.org
- https://lagrange.safe-families.org
- https://dfcs.georgia.gov/locations/troup-county
The phone number for CASA is (706) 845-8243.
This week on Lewis and Broad, Michelle Williams, the Director of Rehabilitation of Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center, joined us to discuss what it's been like for her and her work-place during the past year. We are approaching the first anniversary of Covid-19, and obviously, with working in a hospital, Michelle has experienced the brunt of it all. Tune in to hear some of her stories.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/long-and-lonely-fight
- https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccine
This week on Lewis and Broad, Anabeth Ivey, Marketing Specialist for New Ventures, and Kevin Goodson, Developing Director of Calumet Center for Healing and Attachment, joined us for a conversation about their organizations and a special piece of property that is helping bring them together.
- https://www.newventures.org
- https://www.calumetcenter.org
Towards the end of the podcast, James gives a teaser for next week's episode and mentions our author, Judy Gilliam, who has also written a children's book titled "Florence and Her Fantastic Family Tree."
What does it mean to be a "Matthew 25 Congregation?" What does it mean for PCUSA churches to sign up for the "Matthew 25 Initiative?" Tune in to Lewis and Broad this week to hear the conversation about this mission with our team and Aisha Brooks-Lytle, the Executive Presbyter of Greater Atlanta Presbytery.
- https://www.atlpcusa.org
- https://www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/matthew-25/
- https://www.atlpcusa.org/epcorner?rq=Matthe
This week on Lewis and Broad, we are joined with Nate Crawford, Interim Executive Director of DASH, "Dependable Affordable Sustainable Housing." Crawford discusses what it's like running a local non-profit organization and the dreams he has for the organization.
- https://dashlagrange.org
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/the-man-behind-dash
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/podcasts
Tune in to today's episode to hear a true and honest conversation about race between our team, Adam Roberts, and Lisa Farrow. This week's podcast is accompanied by Adam's article, "We Still Have A Dream," in which he describes his friendship with colleague Lisa Farrow. Today's podcast expands on points discussed throughout the article and digs deeper into their friendship.
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/lewisandbroad/we-still-have-a-dream
- https://www.fpclagrange.org/podcasts
Join us this week on Lewis and Broad to hear the top five things we expect to happen regarding the Church (yes, big C Church) in 2021. In case you missed them, here they are:
- The Church will become further decentralized.
- Churches are going to be conducting more building inventories.
- The Church will be forced to discern its place in a divided world.
- The ceiling for ministry will be higher than ever in 2021.
- Younger generations will be most responsible for changing the face of ministry.
What are your thoughts on our predictions? We welcome any feedback!
If any of these discussions interested you, we encourage you to check out Carey Nieuwhof and Barna. Both are at the forefront of researching Church trends and patterns.
This week on Lewis and Broad, we are celebrating Christmas! Join us to hear Jan and James relive Christmas memories and their perspective going into the holiday season.
Here are the links for St. Mark's "Longing for Light in the Darkness" service:
- https://www.facebook.com/stmarkslg
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnOtpN9GvqIUHkJpkNbG5sA
Be sure to watch this week's video for Lewis and Broad! In the video, FPC's children tell the Christmas Story, and I promise you, it is adorable.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9yq4fYwjxs
This week on Lewis and Broad, the Very Reverend Allen Pruitt of St. Mark's Episcopal Church here in LaGrange joined us to discuss the importance of mental health. December can be a dark time for people, especially after we've had the year that we've had. Holidays can be lonely for some, so we wanted to talk about mental health's real and true dilemma.
Allen mentions the Troup Baptist Benevolent Fund. Below is the link for more information, as well as information about St. Mark's and Allen.
- https://www.troupbaptist.org/benevolent-christian-counseling-ministry/
- https://www.stmarkslg.org/
- https://www.stmarkslg.org/pages/staff/
If this podcast has spoken to you in any way, we invite you to reach out to your friends, family, or a local pastor. You matter, and your mental health matters.
This week on Lewis and Broad, we have special guest Sherri Brown from Circles of Troup County and Jwyanda Norman of Carrolton, GA to talk about a full-circle moment with Jan, Jwyanda, and Circles.
Jwyanda runs a home care company in Carrolton called Need it Most HomeCare. Jan and Jwyanda met at a Circles meeting in Carrolton many years ago, and when Jan was involved in a horrible car accident just nine months ago, it was Jwyanda who Jan needed to get her back on her feet.
Join us to hear Jwyanda's story with Circles and to learn about an amazing organization that never fails to do God's work.
- https://www.circlesusa.org/
- https://circlesoftroup.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/Circles-of-Troup-County-436898589696294
This week on Lewis and Broad, we have a special guest: Mayor Jim Thornton! Mayor Thornton is a native of LaGrange, and he shares his thoughts on LaGrange and what he hopes LaGrange will be in the coming future. To read a full biography on Mayor Thornton, click the link below.
- http://www.jimthornton.org/meet-jim/
Here is the link to read more about the formal apology of the Austin Calloway lynching:
- https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2017/01/27/512036362/in-apology-for-decades-old-lynching-police-chief-aims-to-interrupt-the-past
Mayor Thornton talks about a biography of John Wesley, titled "Reasonable Enthusiast." The author of the book is Henry D Rack.
This week Pastor James Goodlet and Pastor Jan Tolbert discuss a little bit about what Lewis and Broad is and how the idea came to be. A lot has happened in the year 2020. Change is overflowing everywhere, forcing people to think differently. Everyone wants to hear good news and we are here to deliver it. Lewis and Broad is more than just a media; it is a storyteller that good things are here, and good things are coming. We may come off a little "churchy", but we promise to leave theology at the door.
James mentioned the Pew Forum and Barna. Below are links to check those out.
- https://www.pewforum.org/
- https://www.barna.com/
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra is one of the smallest cities with an orchestra in the US.
The Street Beat is a brochure that lists non-profits here in LaGrange.
- https://afe0c0fb-511b-4e2e-9b88-3ef3ab595ed9.filesusr.com/ugd/635f0f_7c89a4d517f842e491bce212cf9c26a8.pdf