Real Mississippi

Most people would like to say that segregation is a thing of the past, but it still affects school districts in Mississippi--even one of the state's best. In Desoto County, movement towards the exurbs of Memphis has resulted in achievement
gaps that correlate to the racial demographics of the neighborhoods schools serve. Andrew Dowdy explains the causes of such segregation and ways to end it. Written and narrated by Andrew Dowdy; Produced by Joycelyn Barner.

As Mississippi's leaders debate expanding Medicaid, one thing is certain: it's a prickly topic that magnifies all the disparities in our state. Expansion would improve the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of citizens. It would also be expensive. Is healthcare a right for all? Why is the Mississippi legislature so hesitant to take the step? Is the stalling costing the state money? Written by Grace Ann Courtney and produced by Emily Barnes.

Art makes Mississippi, Mississippi, and our youth need more opportunities to dive into it. Yet an emphasis on STEM and Career education has resulted in a lack of art classes/clubs in Mississippi schools. All kinds of art, from murals to musical performances, add engagement and excitement into communities. We need to nurture art to stop Mississippi's brain drain. Written and recorded by Samar Rosas Rahimi and produced by Benjamin Breeden.

Collinsville, Mississippi's Piggly Wiggly--known locally as the Pig--is all that stands between citizens and a food desert. Unfortunately, this particular super market isn't always that super. Written and narrated by Liz Brittain, and produced by Logan Wood.

Why sleep? This question lies at the heart of Mississippi’s sleep loss epidemic. Why are Mississippi’s students increasingly sacrificing the “season of all natures”? What are the true costs of routine sleep deprivation on the developing mind? And most importantly, what can be done to remedy this? This podcast was written by Andy Chen and produced by Wadie Farewell.

Mississippi's libraries have sometimes found themselves in the crosshairs of culture wars. However, their mission and their people thrive by rising above politics. Written and narrated by Julian Wilson and produced by Thad Gilbert.

The Mississippi prison system constantly faces issues that threaten its effectiveness and the wellbeing of its inmates. The last few years have seen heightened levels of concerns regarding overcrowding, inadequate facilities, and neglect of inmates. Written and narrated by Lee Faul and produced by Jordan Rule.

The cost of college keeps too many students in Mississippi from reaching their goals. With the costs continuing to rise, Mississippi’s students are being pushed into vocational career paths that can trap them in the cycle of poverty and effectively close the door on careers that would allow them to have greater financial freedom. However, through scholarships and support programs, students are finding new resources to help them afford the cost of college and reach their fullest potential. Written by Petra Herrmann and produced by Natalie Gonzalez-Zuniga.

How are so many workers absent from jobs despite a low unemployment rate? The explanation is a decrease in workforce participation, prevalent in the state of Mississippi. A shrinking percentage of eligible workers are applying for and retaining jobs. In this episode, we explore the major causes of this lack in participation and who it affects. With input and personal experiences from job
experts working in Mississippi, we explore possible local solutions to a problem facing employers and consumers. Written by Carter Scaggs and produced by Lucas Griffith.

Chinese immigrants to Mississippi thrived despite huge
challenges. They turned found opportunities where others saw limitations. One important path to success involved grocery stores. They evolved into lively community hubs, blending the East and West seamlessly and making a
welcoming space for everyone. Written by Judy Hung and produced by Cohen Suttles.