On this episode of The Real Hernando, host Derrick Michaud sits down with Lauren McLendon, Alderman At Large for Hernando, MS. Lauren shares her story of moving to Hernando, why she fell in love with the community, and how her career as Director of Operations for a large chemical company prepared her for public service. She opens up about her decision to run for office, her campaign journey, and the historic moment of becoming the first female Alderman At Large in the city’s history. Lauren also discusses her vision for Hernando, the statewide property reassessment, and why she believes lowering the millage rate is crucial for residents.

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Today, we are spotlighting Emily Ridge and Elite Eye Care

DeSoto County’s best optometry clinic! Elite Eye Care sees patients of all ages! Annual comprehensive eye exams, medical exams including diabetic exams, glaucoma treatment, red eyes, emergencies, cataract evals, dry eye, the list goes on!

Some of Emily’s favorite exams are helping people into specialty contacts! Multifocal, sclerals, and ortho-myopia management lenses! Elite Eye Care is committed to providing excellent customer service and is available to meet all your eye care needs.

www.elite-eyecare.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

“Service is Our Mission; Community is Our Passion”

Today, we are spotlighting Jewels & Garret McDonald of Principle Toyota of Hernando

At Principle Toyota of Hernando, they have a family approach to business that's based on five fundamental guiding principles. They are proud to represent the Toyota brand, as it has a long-standing reputation for reliability and integrity. They work hard to reflect these same values throughout every aspect of their dealership.

Principle Toyota of Hernando’s mission statement is "we live to provide exceptional care". There purpose is to be a trusted, caring friend helping people move through life in a sustainable way.

http://principletoyotaofhernando.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Today, we are spotlighting Vibe Nutrition & Side Street Nutrition

A hi-energy studios with that serves hi-protein, lo-carb, lo-cal meal replacement shakes. They also offer vitamin rich, less than 1g of sugar energizing loaded teas, & more!

https://www.facebook.com/vibenutritionhernando

https://www.facebook.com/sidestreetnutrition

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Today, we are spotlighting Acceptance Counseling.

The weight of life’s struggles can make you feel stuck and overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Acceptance Counseling Services in Hernando and Oxford, MS, they understand how these issues can impact your well-being.

With over 20 years of experience, they are committed to offering you the support you need to navigate your mental health challenges. Acceptance Counseling believes everyone can heal and grow, and they’re here to empower you to do just that. Their services are designed to help you take control of your mental health and start making lasting changes today.

http://acsheals.com

140 E. Commerce Street

(662) 533-0220

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Today, we are spotlighting The Baker’s Corner: Gluten-free Café & Coffeehouse.

They are a dedicated gluten-free and celiac-safe Bakery and Coffee Shop near the Historic Hernando Square, MS, at 39 W Commerce Street.

Joining me is Owner, Leslie King

https://bio.site/thebakerscorner

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Techtrain365 is all about bringing live, instructor-led training to teams and individuals, whether online or onsite. From mastering Excel shortcuts to navigating cybersecurity, they aim to make tech approachable and useful for everyone.

http://techtrain365.com

901-240-1912

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Nestled among rolling hills and majestic trees, Blue Haze Farms is a charming, family-owned retreat. Located just 20 minutes from Memphis International Airport and the vibrant nightlife of Tunica, MS, their farm offers the perfect balance of accessibility and peaceful seclusion. Enjoy breathtaking starlit skies and the serene beauty of Blue Haze Lake, fully stocked for fishing enthusiasts.

Blue Haze Farms provides a picturesque escape for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers, whether you're seeking a cozy, pet-friendly farm stay or a unique venue for birthdays, reunions, or corporate retreats. Go experience their little piece of paradise!

Visit BlueHazeFarms.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

Southern Community Foundation is a non-profit organization located in Hernando, Mississippi that provides assistance, community contributions, and events to benefit the children of Hernando.

Visit SouthernCommunityFoundation.org to get involved, stay updated on upcoming events, and explore scholarship opportunities for children with disabilities. To support their mission, click the Donate tab in the top right corner. Your generosity makes a difference!

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

The Happy Hounds Pet Pantry supports local families with pets facing financial hardship or living on a fixed income.

They host fundraising events throughout the year, including a calendar contest that engages and involves the community.

Their first event is the Pet Pantry Palooza, April 5th, 2025 from 9-2. Located at 2008 Oak Tree Cove, Unit C, Hernando. It includes Vendors, Food Trucks, Live bands, Easter Egg Hunt, Horn Lake Animal shelter, Microchipping, Pals of Paws, and collar tags. And of course, The Pampered Pawtique, will be open for all of your pets supplies and goodies for you as well.

Happy Hounds Pet Pantry Palooza, April 5th - 9-2

2008 Oak Tree Cove, Unit C, Hernando

901-730-9012

Venmo for Donations - @‌happy-petpantry

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls

Motivate with Coach Camp

Denise’s Happy Hounds

Tadpool Swim School

Big Note Music Lessons

For all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com

🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com