The Lou Review

In this episode, host Rosa Hart sits down with Libby Gray, attorney and founding partner at Gray Ice Higdon, a Louisville-based law firm built on the principles of inclusion, collaboration, and community. Originally from Minnesota, Libby shares what led her to plant roots in Louisville and how her journey through law school and entrepreneurship shaped the vision for her firm.Together, they explore the vital role legal protection plays for small business owners—especially around intellectual property. Libby breaks down why securing trademarks and patents early is a smart investment, how to avoid costly mistakes, and how her firm is working to make legal support feel approachable and empowering.The conversation also highlights Libby’s passion for mentorship and community involvement, and how Gray Ice Higdon’s new office space was intentionally designed to reflect their commitment to inclusivity and professional growth.💡 Key Takeaways:Libby Gray found her home in Louisville and is now deeply invested in the local business and legal communities.Gray Ice Higdon’s new office space was created with collaboration, comfort, and inclusivity in mind.Intellectual property protection is a must-have for safeguarding a business’s brand, ideas, and growth potential.Early investment in legal counsel can help entrepreneurs avoid future pitfalls.Mentorship and community engagement are core values at Gray Ice Higdon.The firm is building a culture where all employees feel welcome and supported.Legal services for startups should be accessible, not intimidating.Entrepreneurs need to understand the basics of trademarks, patents, and IP rights.Don’t wait—get legal advice early in your business journey.Local connections and community support are key to long-term success.🎧 Tune in and learn how Libby is helping businesses protect what they’re building—while building community at the same time.Find the legal professional you need at:https://grayice.com/

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Janelle Bass, co-owner of Ponyboy, a bourbon cocktail brand in a can. From her roots in voiceover work and bartending to co-founding Ponyboy with her husband Mike, Janelle shares the story of how their whirlwind romance turned into a business venture that’s redefining bourbon culture.Janelle opens up about the challenges and triumphs of creating canned cocktails, the power of storytelling in marketing, and the importance of making bourbon more accessible to a broader audience. She also shares behind-the-scenes moments from their surprise wedding, winning the BevNet competition, and how they’re expanding Ponyboy’s reach beyond Kentucky.Find out more at www.drinkponyboy.comor follow them on Instagram  @drinkponyboy  Follow host Rosa's adventures on  @rosaraves 

This episode is made possible by The Lou Review Foundation, Inc.

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Chef Michael Crouch, the celebrated chef at Watch Hill Proper, to explore his inspiring journey from a career in commercial art to becoming one of Louisville’s most creative culinary voices. Chef Crouch opens up about the challenges and rewards of the culinary profession, the importance of inspiration and creativity in avoiding burnout, and how food can be a powerful force for connection within a community.

They dive into the philosophy that guides his work—pushing culinary boundaries while staying grounded in passion, personal enjoyment, and a commitment to community engagement. Chef Crouch also shares insights on Louisville’s vibrant seafood scene, the excitement behind the new summer menu at Watch Hill Proper, and why he feels grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the city’s dynamic food culture.

Key Takeaways:

• 🎨 Chef Crouch transitioned from a background in commercial art to culinary arts, expressing his creativity through food.

• 🔥 The culinary profession is high-pressure but deeply rewarding for those passionate about it.

• 💡 Finding inspiration is crucial for chefs to stay energized and avoid burnout.

• 🏙️ Chef Crouch emphasizes the importance of community in shaping his culinary work.

• 🍽️ He’s committed to pushing culinary boundaries and elevating Louisville’s local food scene.

• 🐟 Louisville boasts a vibrant seafood scene, with fresh options available.

• 💖 Chef Crouch’s food philosophy is centered on passion, joy, and creating meaningful connections through shared meals.

• 🌿 The new summer menu at Watch Hill Proper showcases seasonal ingredients and Chef Crouch’s signature creativity.

• 🙌 Chef Crouch is excited to engage with the community and foster a love for great food.

📍Whether you're a foodie, or just love a good story, this episode is packed with inspiration from one of Louisville’s most inventive minds.

Follow Chef Michael Crouch on Instagram ⁠@chefmjcrouch⁠.

The Lou Review podcast is made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc.

To learn more about our mission to support local, visit LouReview.com.

Follow host Rosa Hart on social media @RosaRaves to see what she discovers next!

What do a brothel-themed bistro, big cats, and Japanese Sake have in common? Meet Kevin Grangier, the bold mind behind some of Louisville’s most innovative dining experiences.In this episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with local restaurateur and branding expert Kevin Grangier to explore his unique journey from marketing and consumer communication to launching standout Louisville restaurants like Village Anchor, Le Moo, Grassa Gramma and his two back-to-back additions: dining in Hotel Bourré Bonne and Sake A Go Go. Kevin shares how his background in crisis management and his love for the spirits industry shaped his approach to restaurant branding and culinary creativity. He opens up about his heart for animal rescue—especially big cats and kittens—and how his passion influences his restaurant innovation and philanthropic efforts.From Sake-fueled Japanese cuisine to playful ceiling art and storytelling on dinner checks, Kevin’s establishments go beyond food—they create experiences. This episode highlights how understanding consumer behavior, embracing local culture, and integrating purpose-driven design can redefine the Louisville food scene.🔑 Top Takeaways• Kevin transitioned from marketing to the restaurant industry, bringing strategic insight into every project.• Mentorship, particularly from Charlotte Tharp, played a pivotal role in his professional evolution.• His restaurants combine branding, art, and storytelling to stand out.• The Village Anchor features unexpected design inspired by a brothel—complete with cheeky check-out slips.• Le Moo blends masculine and feminine aesthetics while pushing the envelope on dining ambiance.• Kevin's deep affection for animals drives his work in animal rescue, making his restaurants part of a greater cause.• His passion for Japanese cuisine shines through in his latest project, Sake, celebrating authenticity and flavor.• The Louisville dining scene is thriving, thanks in part to local entrepreneurs who prioritize creativity and community.• Mastering crisis management and consumer connection is critical to restaurant longevity.📍Whether you're a foodie, a fan of smart restaurant marketing, or passionate about animal rescue, this episode is packed with inspiration from one of Louisville’s most inventive minds.The Lou Review podcast is made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc. To learn more about our mission to support local, visit LouReview.comFollow host Rosa Hart on social media @RosaRaves to see what she discovers next!

🎧 Episode Show Notes – The Lou Review

Celebrating 75 Years of St. Matthews with Mayor Rick Tonini

In this special episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Mayor Rick Tonini of St. Matthews to celebrate the city’s incredible milestone—75 years since its incorporation! Mayor Tonini shares stories from St. Matthews’ rich past, highlights how the city has evolved, and gives listeners a preview of the exciting events planned for the 75th Anniversary celebration.

Tune in to hear:

• The transformation of St. Matthews over the decades

• How the city supports and values local businesses

• What makes the St. Matthews community so special

• Mayor Tonini’s personal journey in public service

• Plans for the future of parks and recreational spaces

• Full details of the 75th Anniversary celebration on June 7

From live music and food trucks to zip lines, petting zoos, and a drone light show—this all-day celebration is packed with fun for the whole family!

📅 St. Matthews 75th Anniversary Celebration
🗓 Saturday, June 7 | 12 PM – 10 PM
📍 Brown Park (Corner of Browns Lane and Kresge Way)
🎉 Free Admission | Family-Friendly | Live Music | Food & Beer Garden | Drone Show Finale

Come early for Rise & Shine Yoga at 10 AM and stay late for an unforgettable drone show lighting up the night sky.

Let’s honor the legacy, celebrate the present, and toast to the bright future of St. Matthews!

Made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local businesses and nonprofits by amplifying their mission through storytelling.In this inspiring episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Denise Sears, President and CEO of SOS (Supplies Over Seas) — a Louisville-based nonprofit transforming surplus medical supplies into life-saving resources around the world and in our own backyard.Denise shares her fascinating journey from international economics to nonprofit leadership, and how she helped evolve SOS from its original mission of international aid to a dual focus that now includes addressing local health inequities in Louisville.Throughout their conversation, Denise and Rosa explore:The power of partnerships and how accreditation has helped build trust with hospitals and global organizations.The critical importance of ethical practices in the medical supply chain.How volunteers are the heartbeat of SOS’s mission, creating meaningful connections both locally and globally.SOS’s approach to disaster relief, from hurricane zones to conflict areas, and how community-specific solutions save lives.Real-life stories of hope and transformation that remind us why this work matters.This episode is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of health and community well-being, and ends with a call to action: support your local initiatives and consider how your time, talents, or donations can make a global impact.🌟 Episode Takeaways:SOS was founded in 1993, focused on international medical aid.Denise Sears has expanded SOS to include local health initiatives in Louisville.Accreditation has helped forge stronger hospital partnerships.A reputation for quality has increased global collaboration.Ethical distribution of medical supplies is a core value.Volunteers are essential to SOS’s mission and local outreach.Disaster relief efforts are customized to fit community needs.SOS’s work changes lives — with stories to prove it.Addressing local health needs promotes community prosperity.Health and community well-being are deeply interconnected.🔗 Learn more about SOS or get involved at https://soshealthandhope.org💛 This episode is brought to you by The Lou Review Foundation Inc., committed to building a stronger community by telling the stories that matter most.🎧 Listen, share, and support local.

Ever wondered what it takes to run Kentucky’s FIRST no-kill animal rescue? 🐾 In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Jason Wetherington of the Animal Care Society—where every wagging tail has a fighting chance. From Derby-themed fashion shows to life-saving expansions, discover how this team is rewriting the future for homeless pets. Press play and fall in love with the mission!

Jason shares his journey from volunteer to executive director, the challenges of post-COVID pet surrenders, and the importance of education, responsible pet ownership, and volunteer support. Plus, don’t miss details about their upcoming Derby-themed fashion show featuring adoptable dogs—an event you won’t want to miss!

✅ Kentucky’s first no-kill rescue (since 1984!) accepts all breeds and medical conditions.
✅ Training & behavioral support ensure successful adoptions.
✅ Post-COVID surrenders have increased demand for rescue services.
✅ Expanded facilities mean more animals can be saved.
✅ Volunteers & thrift store play a huge role in funding operations.
✅ Education is key to reducing pet overpopulation.

🐾 "It's almost like a continuum of care."
🐾 "We are continuously operating at capacity."
🐾 "There's something for everyone to help out."

Tune in to learn how you can adopt, volunteer, or donate to support this incredible mission!

Connect with them at: https://animalcaresociety.org/

Give your pet a shot at walking the runway in the contest: https://derbydogoftheyear.com/

Subscribe to the Lou Review Podcast and stay tuned to learn how it is evolving into a nonprofit!

For more podcasts hosted by Rosa Hart, check out Nurse Rosa's INsights, Aging Like A Pro and Stronger After Stroke.

In this episode of the Lou Review, host Rosa Hart interviews Joan Hale, co-founder of Necessary Comforts, a startup dedicated to providing comfort and dignity to patients recovering from surgeries.

Joan shares her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor and how her experiences inspired her to create a product that addresses the needs of patients with drains. The conversation explores the challenges of starting a business, the importance of community support, and the innovative solutions that Necessary Comforts offers to enhance patient care.

To learn more, contact them at:

[email protected]

Use code "ROSARAVES" for 10% discount

https://www.etsy.com/shop/NecessaryComforts

Follow Rosa on social media for more @RosaRaves

Highlights:

Joan is a breast cancer survivor who created Necessary Comforts.

The idea for the business came from personal experiences during recovery.

Necessary Comforts provides dignity to patients with stylish, functional products.

The product development process involved feedback from hospitals and patients.

Joan emphasizes the importance of local manufacturing and community support.

The business is self-funded and relies on sales for growth.

Joan aims to hire local women with sewing skills for production.

Necessary Comforts is expanding its reach to hospitals across the nation.

The company is committed to giving back to the community through various initiatives.

Joan's journey highlights the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart interviews Eric Lindsey from the Kentucky Blood Center. They discuss the importance of blood donation, the processes involved, and the community impact of local blood banks. Eric explains the operational challenges faced by the Kentucky Blood Center, the need for continuous blood donations, and the various incentives offered to encourage people to donate. They also touch on the recent opening of a new location in Louisville and the significance of keeping blood donations local.

Find out more at:

https://www.kybloodcenter.org/

Vanessa shares her journey from being a non-technical founder to launching her MVP, the challenges she faced, and the resources that helped her along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, flexibility in scheduling, and the unique features of TravBudd that differentiate it from other platforms. Vanessa emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the value of networking in the entrepreneurial journey.

If you like this episode of The Lou Review, you would probably enjoy The Startup Hustle, Eat Kentucky or the Bourbon Pursuit podcast!