The “Workforce Wake Up” initiative in Louisiana, led by Will Green of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI), aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by aligning classroom learning with career readiness. Louisiana faces a significant labor shortage, with a labor force participation rate of just 58.5%, well below the national average. To close this gap, the state needs to add approximately 145,000 workers. LABI’s strategy focuses on connecting students and adults to high-demand, skills-based jobs through education reform and workforce development.A key component of this effort is a new Advanced Placement (AP) course titled Business Principles and Personal Finance, developed in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the College Board. This course is designed to equip high school students with essential business and financial skills, preparing them for real-world challenges and enhancing their career readiness.

The initiative also supports expanding the MJ Foster Promise Program to include nonviolent offenders and align with Louisiana Economic Development (LED) projects, helping adults reenter the workforce and reduce recidivism. Another major effort is bringing the “Be Pro Be Proud” program to Louisiana. Originating in Arkansas, this mobile career exploration initiative uses interactive tools to expose high school students to skilled trades and career opportunities, boosting technical college enrollment and reducing dropout rates.Overall, “Workforce Wake Up” emphasizes a collaborative, statewide approach involving educators, businesses, and policymakers to address Louisiana’s talent shortage. By fostering practical education, apprenticeships, and mentorships, the initiative aims to create a more skilled, career-ready workforce and position Louisiana as a leader in economic development across the South.

Katherine Templeton from Our Lady of the Lake joins the show to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping, especially among youth. She highlighted alarming trends in middle and high school students, where usage rates continue to rise. Templeton emphasized the serious health risks associated with vaping and the importance of early education and prevention efforts to combat this growing public health concern among adolescents.

Erin Guzzardo and Chef Peter Sclafani from SoLou – Patio Restaurant Bar joins the show for Foodie Friday to showcase their featured dishes: the flavorful bavette steak and refreshing mojitos. They shared insights into the preparation and inspiration behind these menu highlights, emphasizing SoLou’s commitment to creative Southern cuisine and vibrant dining experiences. Their segment offered a delicious preview of what guests can expect at the popular Baton Rouge eatery.

Ronnie Rantz joins the show to share about Guaranty Media Night at Pete Goldsby Field today, where the Baton Rouge Rougarou will take on the Acadiana Cane Cutters. The event promises an exciting evening of baseball and community fun, highlighting local talent and fan engagement. Rantz shared enthusiasm for the matchup and encouraged fans to come out and support the Rougarou in what’s expected to be a lively and entertaining night at the ballpark.

Patrick “Patty G” Gremillion joins the show to share insights on what defines great leadership in 2025. He emphasized the importance of vision, curiosity, emotional intelligence, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose. Central to his message was the idea of “knowing your why”—understanding the deeper motivation behind one’s actions. Gremillion highlighted how these traits empower leaders to inspire others and navigate today’s complex, fast-changing world with clarity and authenticity.

During the 2025 Louisiana legislative session, State Representative Gabe Firment played a key role in advancing significant insurance reform. As Chair of the House Insurance Committee, Firment helped pass several impactful bills aimed at improving the claims process, increasing accountability for insurers, and protecting consumers.One major accomplishment was House Bill 437, which became law without the governor’s signature. It increases penalties for insurers who delay payments for rental vehicles or repairs and introduces a standardized “proof of loss” form for property claims. This aims to reduce ambiguity and streamline the claims process, especially after disasters like the 2016 Baton Rouge flood.

Firment also authored House Bill 436, now Act 17, which prohibits undocumented immigrants involved in car accidents from claiming general damages or lost wages. While controversial, Firment argued it was a common-sense measure to prevent ineligible wage claims.

Another key bill, House Bill 438 (now Act 85), prevents insurance companies from using institutional advertising expenses to justify rate increases. This consumer-friendly reform is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and fairness in rate-setting.

Firment’s legislative package was part of a larger push by the state to address Louisiana’s insurance crisis. While not all proposed reforms passed, Firment gave the session a solid “B” grade, citing historic progress on insurance reform. He also praised the legislature’s work on the state budget, especially in light of challenges following the failure of a constitutional amendment.Additionally, Firment sponsored House Bill 176, which bans the sale of hallucinogenic mushroom derivatives disguised as candy, a response to alarming incidents involving children.Overall, Firment’s efforts reflect a balanced approach to reform—targeting both insurers and legal loopholes—while aiming to protect consumers and stabilize Louisiana’s insurance market.

Kyrin Minor, Director of Marketing at Lake Urgent Care, joins the show to explore how technology is transforming the healthcare experience. She highlights how digital tools are enhancing patient engagement, streamlining services, and improving overall care. Minor emphasizes the importance of leveraging these innovations to make healthcare more accessible and efficient. Her insights reveal a shift toward a more connected, user-friendly approach to medical services through technological evolution.

Actor Justin Bartha joins the show to discuss his new comedy film Nuked, which follows a group of college friends reuniting for a cannabis-infused, tech-free birthday party—only to discover a nuclear missile is en route to Los Angeles. Bartha shared insights into the film’s mix of absurd humor and real-world anxiety, its improvisational moments, and the deeper message about relationships and appreciating life in the face of disaster.

Lieutenant Don Coppola from Capital Region Crimestoppers joins the show to discuss the effectiveness of anonymous tips that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of wanted criminals, as well as give an update on the recovery of Sgt. Caleb Eisworth.

If you have any information and would like to leave an anonymous tip, call 344-7867.For more, visit: crimestoppers225.com and facebook.com/CS225