Sarah Bell is the Chief of Industry Exposure and Experience, and John Cosper is the Director of Employer Partnerships at YouthForce NOLA. They join us to share how their team is connecting high school students in New Orleans with paid internships that build both career readiness and confidence. Through 60+ hours of soft skills training and over 100 hours of real-world work experience, YouthForce is helping young people gain clarity on their futures—whether that means college, technical training, or entering the workforce directly.

We talk about what makes YouthForce’s model so effective, how it supports both students and employers, and why it’s about more than just a summer job. From financial literacy to long-term mentorship, this conversation highlights the power of work-based learning to change lives and build a stronger New Orleans.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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.

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Gerald Duhon is the Executive Director of the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI). We sit down with Gerald to talk about the Hospitality Investment Training (HIT) program which helps young adults in New Orleans access career pathways in the city’s most iconic industry. Gerald breaks down how the program addresses gaps in traditional hospitality training by focusing on functional skills, organizational values, and crucial soft skills like conflict resolution and financial literacy.

We also get into NOCHI’s innovative partnerships with Viking Cruises, Aramark, Sodexo Live, and Diageo, plus their upcoming subscription-based training model that makes professional development more accessible for local businesses. From workforce retention to redefining what hospitality really means, Gerald shares how NOCHI is investing in the people who make New Orleans a world-class destination.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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.

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Scott Tilton is the Co-founder and Director of the Nous Foundation, the New Orleans Foundation for Francophone Cultures. We sit down with Scott to talk about why now is the critical moment to open a cultural center dedicated to preserving Louisiana’s French, Creole, and Indigenous heritage. Scott shares the history behind Louisiana’s declining French-speaking population, the cultural discrimination that led to it, and how the Nous Foundation is working to create a new future through arts, education, and community-driven initiatives.

We also dive into the vision behind their new space at 602 Toulouse Street, their groundbreaking projects like Le Lab for young cultural entrepreneurs, and the importance of building a bilingual economy in Louisiana. From personal stories of family heritage to major collaborations with organizations like the Historic New Orleans Collection, Scott highlights how culture can be a powerful engine for community pride, economic growth, and global connection.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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.

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Larry Irvin is the Executive Director of Brothers Empowered to Teach, and Arianne Craig Jolla is the organization’s Chief Operating Officer. Together, they’re leading the charge to increase the number of Black male educators in classrooms through initiatives like Pipeline 360. With Black men making up only 1.3% of public school teachers nationwide, Larry and Arianne break down why this matters, how early exposure and mentorship can shift entire communities, and what it takes to reimagine education for the next generation.

We sat down with Larry and Arianne to explore how Brothers Empowered to Teach is building more than just teachers—they're developing whole leaders. From soft skills and classroom experience to policy exposure and long-term career growth, this conversation shows how education can be both impactful and empowering. Whether you're a potential fellow, school partner, or funder, this episode shows there's a role for everyone in building a better future.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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

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Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

William Stoudt is the Executive Director of Rebuilding Together New Orleans, a nonprofit tackling the long-term impact of Hurricane Ida by repairing and fortifying roofs for low-income homeowners. We sat down with him to talk about how his team is helping New Orleanians stay in their homes by building safer, stronger roofs—starting from the top down. From blue tarps to rising insurance rates, William breaks down how fortified roofing reduces storm damage, lowers insurance costs, and strengthens entire neighborhoods.

We also dive into the reality of long waitlists, the emotional toll of home repair work, and why investing in quality roofing now prevents even bigger problems later. If you care about housing equity, disaster recovery, or making your community more resilient, this one’s for you. Learn more or get involved at rtno.org and don’t miss their upcoming Build & Boil event on May 17!

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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/

Looking to grow your business in New Orleans? Eric Paskewich (Director of Entrepreneurship) and Damian Clark (Strategic Project Manager) from Propeller join us to break down how their revamped Impact Accelerator Program is helping local entrepreneurs scale with purpose. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, this episode covers the resources, mentorship, and real-world support available through Propeller’s startup and growth tracks. From health to food, water to education — Propeller is building an ecosystem for long-term, community-driven success.

Learn more or get involved at gopropeller.org. If you’re enjoying Missions Bayou, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone building something big in New Orleans!

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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/

James Karst is the Communications Director at the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL), and he joins us to talk about the urgent fight to save Louisiana’s coast. With over 2,000 square miles of wetlands lost in the past century—an area the size of Delaware—James breaks down why this crisis affects everyone, from local communities to the economy and hurricane protection. We discuss CRCL’s work restoring wetlands, building oyster reefs, and engaging volunteers from all walks of life to take action.

We also get into the long-term challenges of coastal erosion, why solutions must go beyond tree planting, and how people can get involved in restoration efforts. With 30,000 trees set to be planted and a major oyster reef project in the works, CRCL is making a real impact. Whether you're in New Orleans or beyond, this conversation is a wake-up call on why Louisiana’s disappearing coast matters—and how we can all be part of the solution.

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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/

Alexander Bigbie is the Executive Director of Flyte, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting small businesses—especially Black women-owned businesses in Southeast Louisiana. He joins Missions Bayou to share how Flyte is filling gaps in the business support ecosystem with accessible, virtual programming, a focus on financial wellness, and long-term mentorship. Unlike traditional accelerator programs, Flyte offers 12-month support, helping business owners build sustainable financial and business habits while ensuring they have the right resources and relationships to succeed.

We also discuss Flyte’s growth, success stories like a cheesecake business expanding to supermarkets, and how business professionals can volunteer their expertise to support local entrepreneurs. Plus, we put Alexander’s British accent skills to the test with some fun challenges at the end.

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

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Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Sarintha Stricklin is the Executive Director of Jefferson Ready Start Network, working to expand access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education in Jefferson Parish. We dive into the childcare crisis, discussing how the lack of affordable options forces parents out of the workforce and costs Louisiana over $700 million a year. Sarintha breaks down the impact on businesses, families, and the economy, and why investing in early education is critical for long-term success.

We also explore the School Readiness Tax Credit, a game-changing opportunity for businesses to invest directly in local early education while receiving a dollar-for-dollar tax credit. With only 15% of children entering kindergarten fully prepared, we talk about how initiatives like these can create lasting change. Join us as we unpack the challenges, solutions, and the future of early childhood education in Louisiana.

Mission Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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/

Sam McCabe is the Director at the Center for Entrepreneurship and Community Development at Loyola University. We dive into how Loyola is expanding its role in New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) by hosting a two-day summit focused on innovation, AI, and the creator economy.

We also discuss how Loyola’s Jesuit values drive its commitment to community impact, providing students with hands-on entrepreneurial experiences. From small businesses to startups, Loyola is fostering a space where creativity and business meet. NOEW’s expanded programming is set to bring in diverse perspectives, and Sam breaks down what attendees can expect. Ready to get involved? Registration is free—don’t miss out!

Missions Bayou is presented by Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video production agency that helps organizations amplify their impact through mission-driven storytelling. 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/