Renee Amar, Executive Director of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association, joins the show to unpack the state’s tangled web of insurance premiums, lawsuit abuse, and medical billing chaos. With eye-popping MRI charges reaching $40,000 for truckers, Amar calls out the systemic failures driving up costs and pushing health insurance out of the equation. She highlights the energy of Louisiana’s freshman legislature and their push for reform, while exposing resistance from parts of the healthcare industry. Amar urges Louisiana to follow the lead of states like Texas and Florida, demanding transparency and fairness to keep the trucking industry—and the economy—moving forward.

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TEDx Baton Rouge is back and bolder than ever. Co-organizers Adrian Owen Jones and Melissa Thompson preview this year’s electrifying lineup, featuring sponge hunters, biodegradable Mardi Gras beads, and climate-conscious creators. As one of only 19 global anchor cities for TED Countdown, Baton Rouge will host talks focused on climate adaptation and innovation—including maternal health, sustainable fashion, and art-science collaborations. With activation stations, live music, and a high-energy after party, the November 13th event promises a full-sensory experience. Tickets are available at TEDxBatonRouge.com, but don’t be late—these talks are filmed live and destined for the global TED stage.

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Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois joins the show to spotlight the “Driving Louisiana Opportunity Tour,” a statewide initiative connecting directly with 800 key “driver companies.” From industrial giants like Pipe and Steel to global brands like Marucci, the tour showcases the innovation and impact of Louisiana-grown businesses. Bourgeois shares insights on workforce needs, supply chain strength, and the gratitude businesses feel when government shows up to listen. With a focus on removing barriers and amplifying success stories, the tour aims to fuel growth, shift perceptions, and celebrate the state’s unmatched work ethic and economic potential from the inside out.

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Baton Rouge Fire Chief Mike Kimble joins the show to celebrate a major milestone: the department has once again earned a Class 1 rating from the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana—an elite designation it’s held continuously since 1980. This top-tier rating means lower insurance premiums for residents and unmatched emergency response standards. Chief Kimble breaks down the rigorous criteria, from lightning-fast response times to daily training and inter-agency coordination. With 96% of calls answered in under five minutes and 580 personnel committed to excellence, Baton Rouge’s fire service proves why it’s one of the best in the nation.

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This week’s Crime Stoppers segment hits all the right notes—literally. The team gears up for “Holiday Sinatra,” a big-band concert on December 6th at LSU Union Theater, blending classic Christmas tunes with a fundraising mission for Crime Stoppers. Proceeds support educational programs and a cutting-edge kiosk initiative that will bring real-time fugitive alerts and anonymous tip access to high-traffic public spaces. Deputy Chief Johnny Dunham and Ned Fasullo unveil plans for 55-inch digital kiosks, corporate sponsorships, and interactive features. Plus, a shoutout to Bill Lockwood, Crime Stoppers USA’s Board Member of the Year, and a powerful recap of the Beyond Bars program.

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The Baton Rouge mayor’s office has released its 2026 budget proposal, facing significant financial constraints and a mandate to present a balanced budget. Mason Batts from the mayor’s office joins the show to explain that reserve funds, heavily relied upon in previous years, are now depleted—leaving just over a month’s worth of operational reserves, far below the recommended two months. To avoid the fate of New Orleans, which saw a credit downgrade due to unsustainable budgeting, Baton Rouge is steering away from using reserves for recurring expenses.

Revenue losses tied to the formation of St. George and the expiration of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have compounded the challenge. The city also carries $52.5 million in general fund debt. Despite these pressures, the administration managed to reduce the proposed budget cuts from $35 million to $15 million through streamlining and eliminating non-essential expenses.

The most significant impact will be felt in the Department of Public Works, especially transportation and drainage, as police and fire departments were spared due to staffing and cost concerns. Central government departments—including the mayor’s office, finance, and HR—face 12% cuts. Cultural institutions like the Arts and Science Museum may lose funding unless new revenue sources emerge.

The Thrive EBR initiative, with three proposals on the November 15 ballot, could help offset infrastructure cuts and reduce debt burdens, though the budget assumes it won’t pass. Agencies currently funded by ARPA interest earnings will lose support in 2026 unless alternative funding is secured.

The legally mandated budget process requires Metro Council to vote by December 10. Most city revenue comes from sales tax (60%), followed by fees and property taxes. The budget emphasizes fiscal responsibility, prioritizing essential services while preparing for leaner financial conditions ahead.

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Tech Gumbo kicks off its 12th year with a fiery blend of humor and outrage. Haggai Davis joins the show to dive into the jaw-dropping cybersecurity fail at the Louvre—where priceless art was guarded by a six-letter password and a server older than some of the exhibits. They roast the galactic stupidity of outdated tech and weak security, then pivot to brighter news from Down Under: Australia’s solar surge is delivering three hours of free electricity daily. From trillion-dollar self-worth to energy innovation, this episode serves up laughs and lessons on password security.

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Hockey season is back in Baton Rouge, and new Zydeco head coach Chad Bailey is ready to lead the charge. With a fresh system, returning players, and a growing rivalry with Biloxi, the team is building chemistry and chasing wins. Bailey shares his journey from Arizona to Wyoming to Texas, and now Louisiana—where fans are embracing the sport with Southern flair. From fast-paced offense to defensive grit, Zydeco hockey is evolving. With community support and a roster of committed players, Baton Rouge is becoming an unlikely hockey hotspot. Catch the action this Friday at the River Center and feel the ice ignite.

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Lauren Giffin and John Schiller from the LSU Alumni Association join the show to spotlight how the organization is building lifelong connections for Tigers across the country. As a nonprofit separate from campus leadership, the Alumni Association remains a steady force through every headline and transition. From student engagement to post-grad support, their mission is clear: keep alumni connected, empowered, and thriving. With platforms like LSUtigerNation.com and summer networking events in cities like Dallas, Atlanta, and D.C., the Tiger network is stronger than ever. Whether you're a recent grad or seasoned pro, LSU is making sure Tigers take care of Tigers.

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The USS Kidd, a beloved World War II-era destroyer and staple of Baton Rouge’s riverfront, is nearing the end of an extensive restoration project. Les Nicholson, chair of the restoration commission, shared updates on the ship’s journey. After being towed to the Thomas E. Shipyard in Houma, workers discovered severe hull damage caused by decades of electrolysis and wear from its unique cradle setting. The ship, now fully restored and repainted to its 1945 configuration, will be refloated on November 11—Veterans Day.

Despite its readiness, the Kidd cannot return to Baton Rouge until the Mississippi River reaches the required 33–35 feet to safely maneuver it back into its cradle. That likely won’t happen until spring, pending forecasts from the Corps of Engineers. The ship, which has no engines, will be towed through the Gulf and up the Mississippi under close Coast Guard supervision.

The initial tow to Houma was a tense operation, with 27 major leaks and constant pumping to prevent flooding. Divers and specialists worked tirelessly to patch the hull and ensure safe passage. Now, with the ship in pristine condition, the restoration is expected to last another 50 years.

The USS Kidd remains the only destroyer in its original WWII configuration and the only one displayed in a river setting with dramatic seasonal water level changes. Its return will mark a powerful moment for Baton Rouge, honoring history and veterans while restoring a cherished landmark to its rightful place.

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