Rough Draft Mississippi

Lauren Cate Leake is the incredible young female entrepreneur behind Frilly Beauty Lounge in Hattiesburg. She is also an insanely talented singer, instrumentalist and actress. James and Holley sit down to discuss the vast array of her talents. Lauren Cate is a lash technician, a permanent makeup artist, and Belle in Hub City Players upcoming rendition of Beauty and the Beast. Music for the episode provided by local group The Squid and the Whale, led by Sarah-Bryan Lewis.

James and Holley sit down with local real estate developer and drummer, Joel Ingram. Joel is a dreamer and a doer, making big developments in downtown Hattiesburg. As a member of several local bands, Joel marches to the beat of his own drum. Music for the episode provided by Cole Hill with songs "Right Where You Left Me" and "Steady As We Go" from new album Brighter Days. 

James and Holley sit down with owners of popular music venue The Grill and Grocery. Tina Thames and Carl McQuagge are a dynamic hard working duo bringing music to the city of Hattiesburg nearly every night of the week. Between balancing multiple careers, to raising children, to creating a community within the city of Hattiesburg, Tina and Carl are quintessential to our city. Music provided by popular solo artist Tyler Tisdale with tracks "She's The One" and title track "If It's All the Same to You."

Join us as we sit down with perpetual educator Kimberly Kaufman Paola and our first ever canine guest Professor Poxy. Kim has an unstoppable energy that she uses to teach in multiple facets. She has big ideas, maybe even one for a podcast of her own. Don't miss the incredible force of nature we like to call Kimmie P B*tch! This episode's music is provided by hometown heroes Burns & Jane!

"A Mississippi band that formed in the mid-90s. The current members are Steve Cook (bass guitar), Dan Hannon (guitar and lead vocals), Tony Lymon (percussion), and Skeeto Valdez (drums).

Their sound is a fairly typical college rock, and similar to other Southern rock bands like Dave Matthews Band. One twist in their bag of originality is Tony Lymon's percussion, on all manner of instruments (steel drum, congas, various bells, etc). The music is smooth and not overproduced (yet)." 

-Tony Lemon

James and Holley are back at the microphone with special guest Meg Brooker, Professor of Dance and Director of Performing and Visual Arts at the University of Southern Mississippi. Meg is a highly celebrated instructor and visionary with a lifetime of experience in visual arts. With musical guest King Konga, this is an episode that will have you dancing in your seats. 

Season 2 episode 7 of Rough Draft Hattiesburg features co-owner and operators of Switchyard music venue and bar in downtown Hattiesburg. Together we discuss the growth of downtown Hattiesburg, volleyball, games, music, and more. Music provided by Funky Lampshades of Orange Beach, Alabama with "Repo man" cover, originally written and recorded by Ray Lamontagne, and original song "Downtown."

This episode with forager and forester Joseph Hosey of Laurel, Mississippi discusses prescribed fire, edible landscapes, and all things outdoors! Music provided by Royal Horses with their original songs "Rise, River, Rise" and "Yourself Again" from their newest album "Where the Purple Flowers Grow." This is a truly educational conversation with a true man of the woods, the Free State Forager

You do not want to miss our incredible and powerful conversation with Judge Polk-Payton. Gay is a firecracker and an inspiration. Her work in law is a true testament to her courage of conviction and dedication to her community. She has a powerful voice. Not only in the courtroom, but behind a microphone. You may even get to hear her sing (wait until you hear the ending!) Music provided by the incredible Ra-Shad the Blues Kid!