Antonio Travis is the Leadership Development Manager and Cameron Dumas is the Leadership Development Coordinator at Friends and Families of Louisiana’s Incarcerated Children (FFLIC), an organization working to transform the systems that impact Louisiana’s young people and families. We sat down with Antonio and Cameron to discuss FFLIC’s advocacy, the lasting effects of punitive school discipline, and how policies within schools and the juvenile justice system can push young people further away from the support and resources they need.

We also talk about their personal experiences with school discipline, the connection between education and incarceration, and FFLIC’s Youth Leadership Cohort, a 12-month program that helps young people develop leadership skills, understand how systems affect their communities, and become advocates for change. Antonio and Cameron share why listening to young people, investing in communities, and creating more supportive systems are essential to building better outcomes for Louisiana’s youth.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Melanie Richardson is the co-founder and executive director of Training Grounds, a New Orleans nonprofit helping parents and caregivers build stronger foundations for children during their first five years. We sat down with Melanie to talk about why those early years matter so much, the challenges families face when early learning and developmental support are hard to access, and how Training Grounds creates welcoming spaces where parents can learn, play, ask questions, and connect with resources.

We also discuss Training Grounds’ free programs, including parent classes, breastfeeding support, developmental activities, family navigation, baby showers, and hurricane preparedness resources. Melanie shares why reducing isolation and stress among parents is such an important part of supporting children, and how building relationships with families can create stronger outcomes for the entire community.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Dr. Kimberly Clay is the Founder and CEO of Play Like A Girl, a nonprofit working to help girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore pathways into STEM and other careers. We sat down with Dr. Clay to talk about how Play Like A Girl grew from a small support network into a national organization, and how sports, mentorship, workplace exposure, and early intervention can help girls see what is possible for their futures.

Dr. Clay also shares why the middle school years are so critical for confidence and career development, how partnerships with schools, companies, sports organizations, and professional mentors support the organization’s work, and what Play Like A Girl hopes to build as it expands into more communities, including New Orleans.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Tina Terrell Brown is the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Giving Gap, a platform working to spotlight, support, and strengthen Black-founded and Black-led nonprofit organizations across the country. We sat down with Tina to talk about why Giving Gap was created, how the organization has continued building momentum since 2020, and why increasing visibility, funding, and connection for Black nonprofits remains so important.

Tina also shares how Giving Gap is building community through its nonprofit network, storytelling, research, and initiatives that celebrate the people who serve as pillars in their communities. We discuss the realities nonprofits are navigating today, the importance of resilience and collaboration, and how both organizations and everyday supporters can use Giving Gap to discover and support Black nonprofits doing meaningful work.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Heavyn Brousseau is the Dreams and Volunteer Coordinator for Second Wind Dreams, a nonprofit dedicated to changing the perception of aging by helping older adults experience meaningful moments, fulfill lifelong wishes, and feel seen and valued. We talk with Heavyn about how the organization’s Dreams Program works, from training Dream Weavers to uncover residents’ hopes and memories to bringing together families, volunteers, businesses, and community partners to make those dreams possible.

Heavyn shares powerful stories of dreams ranging from reconnecting family members to bringing a beloved puppy into a resident’s life and helping a former Macy’s employee return to New York for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. We also explore the isolation many older adults experience in long-term care, the impact of connecting younger and older generations, and the many ways people can get involved through volunteering, Cards of Light, dream sponsorships, youth programs, and more.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

The students of the Sanaa Music Workshop are the future of New Orleans music. We sat down with Joshua Alexander, Tavares Moore, Bryce Reyes, and Bella Meese to hear how the workshop is helping them grow as musicians while preparing them for successful careers through mentorship, entrepreneurship, and real-world music business education. From discovering their musical passions to learning about financial literacy, collaboration, and career opportunities beyond the stage, these young artists share how the program has transformed the way they think about music and their future.

Hosted by Brenna Gourgeot, this special Missions Bayou episode offers an inspiring look at the next generation of New Orleans musicians and the community that's helping them thrive. We explore the power of mentorship, the value of stepping outside your comfort zone, and why programs like the Sanaa Music Workshop are equipping young artists with the skills, confidence, and connections to build lasting careers while preserving the city's rich musical legacy.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Gregory Ajid is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Second Line Arts Collective, and Madelin Alexander is a returning student of the organization's Sanaa Music Workshop. We sat down with Greg and Madelin to explore how the workshop is preparing the next generation of musicians by blending world-class music education with entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and real-world career development. Together, they share why today's musicians need far more than technical talent to build sustainable careers and how Second Line Arts Collective is helping students thrive in an ever-changing industry.

We also dive into Madelin's personal journey from an uncertain first-year student to an emerging leader within the program, highlighting the power of mentorship, collaboration, and stepping outside your comfort zone. Along the way, Greg shares the philosophy behind the workshop's unique approach to education, while Madelin reflects on the life-changing lessons she's gained in music, business, and confidence. Whether you're a musician, educator, or simply passionate about empowering young people, this conversation offers an inspiring look at how investing in the next generation creates lasting impact.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Ginelle Bess is the Founder and Executive Director of Grassroots Redeeming Love, and Taquera Walker is the organization's Board President. We sat down with them to discuss how a devastating EF3 tornado changed North St. Louis and inspired a volunteer-led movement that has grown into a nonprofit dedicated to long-term recovery. They share how a simple act of showing up with trash bags and bottled water evolved into rebuilding homes, supporting displaced residents, and advocating for communities that have too often been overlooked.

We also explore the systemic challenges that made recovery so difficult, including decades of disinvestment, the divide between St. Louis City and County, and the barriers many residents faced in accessing aid. Ginelle and Taquera explain why community action has been essential in filling those gaps, how their work has shifted from emergency relief to rebuilding neighborhoods, and why they believe everyone can make a meaningful difference, no matter how small the contribution. 

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Jennifer Allen is the Executive Director of St. Louis Art Place Initiative (API) , a nonprofit creating pathways to affordable homeownership for artists while preserving the culture and identity of St. Louis neighborhoods. We sat down with Jennifer to explore how API is tackling artist displacement by combining affordable housing, public art, and community-driven development to help creatives build long-term stability while strengthening the places they call home.

We also discuss why artists are essential to the fabric of a community, how API transforms vacant lots into vibrant cultural assets like murals, gardens, and artist residencies, and the organization's innovative Cultural Land Trust model that ensures these spaces remain community-owned for generations.

Jennifer shares how partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity make homeownership possible for artists, why community-led planning is at the heart of their work, and how investing in artists creates stronger, more connected neighborhoods.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot.

Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana.

From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Emma Klues is the Vice President of Communications and Outreach at Great Rivers Greenway in St. Louis, Missouri. We sat down with Emma to explore how Great Rivers Greenway is connecting communities across the St. Louis region through an expanding network of greenways that promote recreation, transportation, environmental stewardship, and economic growth. We discuss how community input shapes every project, why walkability and accessible public spaces matter, and the role greenways play in creating healthier, more connected cities.

We also dive into the transformative Brickline Greenway project, the importance of preserving the history of Mill Creek Valley through public art and storytelling, and how Great Rivers Greenway is working alongside residents to build spaces that reflect the communities they serve. Emma shares what's next for the organization, how people can get involved through volunteering and community engagement, and why investing in public spaces helps strengthen an entire region.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. Missions Bayou is hosted by Maya McGee and Brenna Gourgeot. Maya McGee is the Senior Director of Operations at Comfy Stone, where she helps nonprofits clarify and elevate their storytelling to better reflect their mission and impact. Brenna Gourgeot is a community organizer and data analyst focused on socioeconomic and environmental justice in Southeast Louisiana. From fundraising videos and social media content to full-scale podcast production, Comfy Stone makes it easy for organizations to share their stories in a way that resonates.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/