On The Cusp

In this episode of On The Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Alex Burke, CEO of Archem, a cutting-edge defense contracting company based in Shreveport, Louisiana. Founded in 2021, Archem is helping shape the future of military aviation energy. Alex talks about launching the company, the power of networking, and showcasing their tech at the JetPace Showcase in Ruston this past March. Alex shares why Barksdale Air Force Base is vital to the region’s growth and how innovation can drive jobs and opportunity across north Louisiana. Listen in to hear how Archem is fueling innovation from the ground up.

Jennifer Jones of Lagniappe Sourcing Consulting, LLC Joins On The Cusp this week. Your hosts, Matt and Dave, sit down with Jennifer Jones, founder of Lagniappe Sourcing Consulting, LLC — a Shreveport-based headhunting firm that's making waves across the nation. Jennifer shares how she launched her company to help businesses fill those tough-to-staff roles and how her mission quickly expanded beyond recruiting. Noticing a talent drain in the Shreveport-Bossier City area, Jennifer saw a bigger opportunity: keeping top talent local while attracting new professionals to Louisiana. She opens up about how she “sells” Shreveport — highlighting the hidden gems and lifestyle perks that make it a great place to live and work. From starting a business with purpose to putting Shreveport on the recruiting map, this is an inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss.

Season 10 of On The Cusp kicks off with a powerful conversation featuring Jimmy Graves from Community Renewal International. Joining hosts Matt and Dave, Jimmy shares how his journey with Community Renewal began—not just as a job, but as a heartfelt commitment to a movement aimed at restoring the social fabric in Shreveport and beyond. Jimmy dives into the role of Friendship Houses—safe, welcoming spaces embedded in neighborhoods—and the vital impact they have on community life. From fostering cultural connection to encouraging local entrepreneurship, these houses are changing lives in meaningful ways. He also sheds light on the behind-the-scenes relationships, funding efforts, and logistical work it takes to bring resources to families in need. This episode is a celebration of hope, connection, and community transformation. Tune in now to hear how Shreveport’s Friendship Houses are building a better future—one relationship at a time.

On the 100th episode of On The Cusp, Matt and Dave sit down to reflect on the incredible journey so far. They dive into the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact on North Louisiana and working hard to shape its future. The guys discuss the power of collaboration among fellow entrepreneurs and the value of learning from those who have already walked the path. Matt and Dave also share some of their favorite moments from the past 100 episodes and the invaluable lessons they've learned from the local entrepreneurs they've had the privilege to feature. Tune in now for a special episode you won’t want to miss!

Greg Procell, Vice President and General Manager of Manpower, sat down with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave for an insightful conversation about the evolving workforce in North Louisiana. In addition to his role at Manpower, Greg is also an entrepreneur alongside his wife, and together they own Bella Nonnas Olive Oil and Vinegar. During the discussion, the group dives into the vital role small businesses play as the backbone of our community and how collaboration between those local businesses can unite to support each other and foster mutual success. With over 35 years of experience in the workforce, Greg shares his perspective on the shifts he's witnessed over the years and offers valuable insights into the everchanging landscape of work. Tune in as Greg sheds light on the emerging workforce opportunities in North Louisiana and what the future holds for the region.

Gabriel Balderas, the owner of both Zuzul Coastal Cuisine and El Cabo Verde, recently sat down with your On The Cusp hosts, Matt and Dave, to share the inspiring journey behind the creation of these two incredible restaurants in Shreveport. Gabe has made a significant impact on the local food scene by offering a diverse range of dishes, bringing a fresh and unique perspective to Shreveport’s culinary landscape. By sourcing ingredients from his own local family-owned farm, Gabe is able to provide customers with high-quality, farm-to-table food that stands out in the area. In this conversation, Gabe opens up about his philosophy on the importance of having restaurants that not only serve great food but also foster a sense of community, with the goal of making every guest feel at home. Tune in now to hear more about his story and the passion behind his businesses!

On the latest episode of On the Cusp, hosts Matt and Dave sit down with Caddo Parish School Board Superintendent, Keith Burton. Caddo Parish Public Schools are in the spotlight, earning recognition on both state and national levels. While Keith is proud of the district's accomplishments, his excitement lies in the future. He shares his vision for the positive direction Caddo Parish Public Schools are headed, focusing on both the education of students and the growth of employment opportunities around the parish. You won’t want to miss this engaging discussion—tune in now for an inside look at the future of Caddo Parish Public Schools!

This week, Dave and Matt caught up with Mark Crawford, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for the Shreveport Airport Authority, in between his flights. They talked about the exciting growth happening at Shreveport’s airport, including the addition of new restaurants. Mark shared insights into the increasing number of daily flights and the exciting destinations now accessible directly from Shreveport. He also discussed the critical role the community plays in supporting the airport’s success. Tune in now to hear some fascinating stories happening at Shreveport’s airport!

Ganapathy Subrahmaniam and Ashwin Pulisetty from the Indian Association of Shreveport Bossier recently visited with your On The Cusp hosts, Matt and Dave. During their conversation, Ganapathy and Ashwin shared that the Indian Association of Shreveport Bossier was founded in the late 1970s with the goal of bringing the community together to celebrate Indian culture and heritage. This organization exemplifies how hometown pride isn’t always born but is created by a strong, united community. Tune in now to hear all the incredible things this organization is doing for North Louisiana!

WOW! Lee Hovis is the New Owner of Shreveport’s Wonder Oasis Waterpark! Lee recently stopped by to chat with On The Cusp hosts Matt and Dave about his exciting new venture as the owner of Shreveport’s beloved waterpark. In this exclusive interview, Lee shares what inspired him to purchase this iconic waterpark and what it means to him to be its new owner. He opens up about the challenges he faced getting the park ready for opening and the obstacles he had to overcome along the way. Lee also gives us a glimpse of the plans he has for the park’s future, promising even more fun for families and thrill-seekers alike. Tune in now to hear Lee’s journey and vision before you stop by to make a splash this summer!