Host Brian Cleary sits down with Alex McCarrell, Executive Director & Founder of Meowdog Animal Rescue, and Reynolds Lee, President of the Vet Club at Lucy Beckham High School. In this insightful discussion, they delve into the origins and mission of Meowdog, a dedicated animal rescue based in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

Discover how Meowdog's journey began at a veterinary science program in a local high school, where they took animals from local shelters, and rehabbed them, and getting them adopted out to the community. Alex and Reynolds share the complete narrative, highlighting the incredible involvement and education of high school students, the identified need for another rescue organization, and the process of establishing Meowdog as a legal entity.

Want to learn more about how you can get involved or adopt a furry friend? Head over to the Meowdog Animal Rescue website at MeowdogAnimalRescue.com  for all the details!

The Town of Mount Pleasant, SC, has launched an exciting new initiative: a voluntary residential environmental program! John Farrell, Environmental TMDL Manager for the Town of Mount Pleasant explains that this program aims to inspire Mount Pleasant residents to embrace more environmentally friendly practices at home. Its development follows the success of the town's Environmental Guidelines for Commercial Development, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability across all sectors.

This program offers a variety of "green" improvements and options for residential projects. Many local HOAs, including Belle Hall and Seaside Farms, along with the historic Old Village, have already successfully implemented these eco-conscious techniques. While each technique offers unique advantages, all are designed with environmental stewardship in mind. Benefits range from enhanced aesthetic beauty and potential cost savings to attracting local wildlife and diverse bird species – truly a host of upsides to adopting an environmentally friendly approach!

Tune in to this episode to learn more about the positive environmental impact of these programs and the various initiatives Mount Pleasant is pursuing for both its residents and the environment.

In this episode of the Mount Pleasant Podcast, host Bill Macchio sits down with Mount Pleasant, SC Mayor Will Haynie, who is seeking a third term and continues to be driven by a strong desire to serve the community. His re-election bid has already garnered significant support, with five Town Council members endorsing his campaign.

Understanding the unique structure of Mount Pleasant's local government is key to appreciating Mayor Haynie's role. Unlike the "Mayor Council" forms of government found in nearby Charleston, North Charleston, Goose Creek, and Holly Hill—where the mayor handles day-to-day staff operations, including hiring, firing, and budget presentation—Mount Pleasant operates under a "Council Form." Here, the Mayor collaborates closely with the Town Administrator, who manages the daily intricacies of town services, from waste collection to deploying police to curb speeding in different areas.

Mayor Haynie's tenure has been guided by his "Palmetto Principal," a commitment to protecting, planning for, and restoring Mount Pleasant since his first day in office. A significant achievement under his leadership has been the strategic management of growth and development, which remains the town's top issue. Mount Pleasant successfully reduced its annual growth rate from approximately 14% to a more sustainable 2%, a deliberate effort to better manage the town's expansion.

Don't forget to listen through to the end to hear other stories and details from Mayor Haynie as he talks about running for this third term as Mount Pleasant, South Carolina's Mayor.

Join us for a fascinating conversation on the Mount Pleasant Podcast! In this episode, we chat with Neves Richards, the Director of Volunteer Engagement at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, who gives us a look at Sean Kenney's Nature POP!®, a spectacular LEGO® brick art exhibit currently gracing the grounds of Magnolia through August 15th.

Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details of Nature POP!:

💢 Explore 43 different sculptures strategically placed in 23 unique locations across the beautiful property.

💢 Marvel at creations as tall as 6 feet high, showcasing the incredible artistry of LEGO® bricks.

💢 Get up close with a life-size Zebra composed of over 73,000 LEGOs, a masterpiece that took the artist 279 hours to build!

💢 Each sculpture even tells you how many LEGO® bricks it took to bring it to life!

💢 Best of all? Access to this stunning exhibit is included with your regular admission price!

Beyond the captivating LEGO art, Neves also shares insights into the diverse and rewarding volunteer opportunities available at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Learn how you can contribute to the preservation and beauty of this historic site, and hear about some of the truly breathtaking areas on the property you won't want to miss.

Ready to plan your visit or explore volunteer roles? Find out more, buy tickets for different tours and activities, and discover how to get involved: www.MagnoliaPlantation.com

Emily Faile, Academic Counselor with Palmetto Christian Academy, sat down for a chat with host Brian Cleary. Their opening discussion revolves around why she believes the Academy was named Best Private School in the 2025 Best of Mount Pleasant for the 11th year in a row.

Naturally, faith is a large part of the conversation, as are the strong academic foundations of the school. Parents are important to Palmetto Christian Academy, and the school emphasizes the importance of partnering with them for the benefit of the students.

Check out Palmetto Christian Academy for the student in your life: Online: www.PalmettoChristianAcademy.org Call: 843-881-9967 Visit In-Person: 361 Egypt Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

The Charleston Duck Race is back on the Wando River! Tune in as Evan Murray, the 'Head Duck' Fundraising Chair, joins host Brian Cleary to reveal all the details about this highly anticipated event.

On June 14th, 2025, prepare to witness 30,000 rubber ducks race to the finish line! How long will it take? You'll have to listen to find out! This massive Rotary Club fundraiser unites 9 Lowcountry clubs in a collective effort to support vital community initiatives.

Beyond the thrill of the race, discover the incredible prizes up for grabs, learn how your participation makes a difference, and find out how you can become a proud sponsor. Get insight into the global impact of the Rotary Club, an international philanthropic organization with a presence in over 130 countries, and understand how their diverse clubs address unique community needs.

Don't miss a splash of the action! Visit www.CharlestonDuckRace.com for event details, sponsorship opportunities, and how to adopt your winning duck today!

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON ISLE OF PALMS PODCAST

Join Bill Macchio for a conversation with former SC Senator Ernie Passailaigue, discussing his impactful time in the SC Senate and his role as Executive Director of the SC Education Lottery, clarifying how funds benefit education. He also shares insights into the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and life on the Isle of Palms since 1961, highlighting the island's growth and the importance of family values.  

What's the secret to a vibrant and active life in Mount Pleasant, SC? Find out in this insightful conversation between host Brian Cleary and TJ Rostin, the Town of Mount Pleasant's new Recreation Director!

Think recreation is just for kids? Think again! TJ reveals the diverse services offered by the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department, catering to all ages – from engaging adult programs to enriching senior activities.

Speaking of seniors, did you know the Senior Center is a hub of activity? Learn about their fitness classes, tech workshops, arts & crafts, and even opportunities to connect with health and financial experts.

Want to know what exciting additions are on the horizon for Mount Pleasant's recreation scene? You won't want to miss the end of this episode for all the details!

To connect with the Recreation Department:

◼ Visit Online: https://www.tompsc.com/203/Recreation ◼ Visit in Person: 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Get to know Mount Pleasant's newest Mount Pleasant Town Council member, Mike Tinkey! In this interview with Brian Cleary, Tinkey discusses his reasons for running for office, his specific goals for the town, and his thoughts on working with the existing council. Hear his commitment to non-partisan collaboration and finding common ground for all residents. When asked about his reputation as a "consensus-builder," Tinkey offers a revealing response. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about the individuals shaping your community!

Even though the election is over, you can still dive deeper into his platform at www.MikeTinkeyForTownCouncil.com. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about the individuals shaping your community!

Ever wonder where to find the freshest local produce and unique artisan goods in Mount Pleasant? Join host Brian Cleary as he chats with Tracy Richter, the Town's Events Coordinator, for an inside look at the vibrant Mount Pleasant Farmers Market!

Discover why this beloved Tuesday tradition (3:30 PM - 7 PM, April through September) is a must-visit. With around 50 diverse vendors each week, you'll find everything from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables (that actually last longer!) to delicious ready-to-eat treats, aromatic spices, specialty coffee beans, and so much more. Skip the grocery store and taste the difference locally sourced makes!

Plus, get the exciting scoop on the NEW Makers Mart coming to the northern part of Mount Pleasant on Friday nights! Tracy shares all the details you need to know about this fantastic addition to the local scene.

Don't miss out on all the amazing happenings in Mount Pleasant!

Learn more:

👉 Mount Pleasant Farmers Market 👉 Makers Mart 👉 Explore ALL Town of Mount Pleasant Events