In Full with Valli Soileau

What does a mischievous beagle named Dolly have to do with the future of rural Louisiana? Well, probably nothing. But that's where the conversation starts!

In the debut episode of In Full, Valli sits down with longtime friend Raquel Manuel to talk about life, leadership, family, and the challenges and opportunities facing their communities.

Raquel shares her journey from Baton Rouge to Evangeline Parish, where she built a career in community and economic development, becoming one of Louisiana's youngest Chamber of Commerce CEOs and later serving in statewide leadership with the Louisiana FFA.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as Valli and Raquel explore an often-overlooked reality: some Louisiana high school students aren't simply losing interest in their education. They're working to help support their families.

From the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for young people to the relationship between public education and economic development, this episode explores what it means to invest in a community and the people who call it home.

And, of course, there's Dolly.

In this episode:

• The curious adventures of Dolly the beagle
• Raquel's journey into community leadership
• Why some high school students are entering the workforce before graduation
• Helping young people see a future in their hometowns
• The challenges facing rural Louisiana schools
• Economic development, education, and community involvement
• Faith, family, motherhood, and embracing unexpected opportunities

About In Full

In Full is a conversational podcast exploring the people, stories, and ideas shaping Louisiana. Hosted by Valli and produced by Parish Road Media, the show makes room for thoughtful discussions, unexpected tangents, and the stories that deserve to be told.

Produced by Parish Road Media, LLC.