Bridging the Bayou - the Podcast of Fletcher Technical Community College

In this episode of Bridging the Bayou, host Dr. Kristine Strickland is joined by Chett Chiasson, Executive Director of the Greater Lafourche Port Commission. Together, they explore how one of the region’s most critical assets is shaping the future of energy, transportation, and coastal resilience. From infrastructure to innovation and community engagement, this episode offers a front-row seat to the dynamic role Port Fourchon plays in both our local economy and national conversations. 

Greater Lafourche Port Commission 

Coastal Wetlands Park – Port Fourchon

Lady of the Gulf Memorial 

This episode features Phyllis Peoples, President and CEO of Terrebonne General Health System, in a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Chancellor Dr. Kristine Strickland. From her early days as a CNA to her current role as a healthcare leader, Phyllis shares stories of legacy, leadership, and community commitment. Topics include evolving healthcare delivery, workforce development, community wellness, and the importance of connection and service in shaping a healthier Bayou Region.

Main Website: www.tghealthsystem.com

Well and Wise Program: tghealthsystem.com/community/well-and-wise-program

Facebook: Terrebonne General Health System

In this episode of Bridging the Bayou, Chancellor Kristine Strickland is joined by Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation. Archie opens up about his unexpected journey into politics, meeting two sitting U.S. Presidents, and the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ida. He discusses economic development, workforce needs, infrastructure improvements, and regional collaboration—while also sharing personal stories and his hopes for the future of Lafourche. From leadership lessons to cultural preservation, this episode is a powerful reminder of what strong, community-focused governance can achieve.

Lafourche Parish Government: www.lafourchegov.org

Tourism Information: Lafourche Parish Tourism

Fletcher Webpage: Fletcher.edu

This episode of Bridging the Bayou features Terrebonne Parish President Jason Bergeron, a local leader known for his entrepreneurial drive and deep community commitment. Dr. Strickland and Jason dive into how leadership, transparency, and passion are fueling transformation across the parish. Jason shares how servant leadership, economic development, Streamlining government operations, and tech-driven innovation are helping shape Terrebonne’s future. Tune in for insights on resilience, quality of life, and what it really takes to drive progress in the Bayou region.

• Parish President Email: [email protected]
• Public Relations Email: [email protected]
• Official Website for TPCG
• Facebook Page: Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government

This episode of Bridging the Bayou features Christie Landry, Director of Louisiana STEM Region 3, better known as Bayou STEM. Christie joins Dr. Kristine Strickland for an engaging conversation about her unique path from turtle farming to STEM education leadership. Discover how Bayou STEM is bringing hands-on, high-impact opportunities to students, partnering with industry, and challenging myths around science, technology, and the arts.

Learn more about Bayou STEM here. 

In this dynamic episode of Bridging the Bayou, Chancellor Kristine Strickland welcomes Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, Louisiana’s Commissioner of Higher Education. Together, they dive into the evolving landscape of education and workforce development across the state. Listeners will hear about dual enrollment innovations, the importance of regional institutions, and how strategic partnerships can drive social mobility. With personal stories and powerful insights, Dr. Reed unpacks what it means to be a "talent developer" and how Louisiana is preparing for the future—one credential at a time.

Louisiana Board of Regents Official Website

Louisiana Master Plan for Higher Education (2030)

Louisiana Board of Regents on Facebook 

Louisiana Board of Regents on LinkedIn 

In this episode of Bridging the Bayou, Chancellor Kristine Strickland sits down with Bren Haase, Director of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP), to discuss the urgent challenges of coastal land loss and the innovative solutions being implemented. From habitat restoration to community engagement, learn how BTNEP is making a difference and what we can all do to protect our home. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the future of Louisiana’s coast!

Visit BTNEP.org to learn more about BTNEP

In this episode of Bridging the Bayou, Chancellor Kristine Strickland sits down with Cohen Guidry, Chief Executive Officer of the Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA). Cohen shares his journey from serving in the military to leading economic growth in the Bayou Region. With a background in oil and gas, safety management, and international business, he offers valuable insights on leadership, workforce development, and the future of Terrebonne Parish. Tune in to hear how mentorship, strategic planning, and innovation are shaping the region’s economy. 

What if a simple gesture could transform the way people see you? In this episode, we sit down with Mary Chauvin, founder of Etiquette Center of the South, to explore the significance of social behaviors in everyday life. From teaching children basic manners to coaching professionals on workplace etiquette, Mary shares her passion for refining soft skills that make a lasting impact. Plus, we dive into how etiquette is evolving in today's digital world and what small habits can set you apart.

What does the future of Louisiana’s energy industry look like? In this episode of Bridging the Bayou, Tommy Faucheux, President of Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association (LMOGA), joins us for an insightful conversation about energy, workforce development, and community impact. From the role of oil and gas in Louisiana’s economy to exciting new innovations like carbon capture, Tommy shares his thoughts on industry challenges, job opportunities, and the importance of partnerships with education. Tune in to discover how Louisiana is leading in energy and what it means for the next generation.