Unscripted: the NolaPapa Podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Alyson Gerber is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Liars Society series, a middle grade mystery, like Knives Out for the family. The Liars Society is a Barnes & Noble Bookseller Favorite, Girls' Life Book Club Pick, and The Week Junior Book of the Week. The Liars Society has been nominated for the Texas Bluebonnet Award as well as book awards in Pennsylvania, Missouri, Vermont, New Hampshire, Indiana, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, Alberta, and South Dakota. Find more about Alyson at www.alysongerber.com

We had the best time talking about her brand new book from her series "The Liars Society- A Secret Escape"! It just was released 3 days ago you guys! Find it everywhere. If it's by Scholastic, you know where to find it!  

Then later we welcome a survivor of not one, not two BUT THREE near death experiences. YES! THREE! 

Connie Fusella, Certified Psychic Medium, Author and 3X Near-Death experiencer, Public Speaker & Spiritual Teacher sat down with me to talk about her powerful book "You are SOUL Beautiful". Connie is a highly evidential and respected certified Psychic Medium with a gift for bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. For over two decades, she has been helping people connect with their loved ones on the Other Side. She’s had a fascinating journey, with conscious memories of spirit communication beginning at the age of four. Connie has first-hand knowledge of the Afterlife through three near-death experiences that intensified her connection to the Other Side and led to her soul’s true destiny of becoming a Psychic Medium. 

To learn more about Connie's work or to find her book visit www.meaningfulmessages.info

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

A super special Easter episode coming at ya this week. Holy week became more special to me as my children grew and became curious. I love learning more about not only Christ and the way, but also introducing new knowledge to my babies. WHO better to lead us in this meaningful conversation than our own Brother Todd van Alstyne, New Orleans Anglican Dominican Friar. 

We welcome Brother Todd on multiple times a year for a fun, family friendly segment with my own kids who are 10, 8 and 6 years old. From stories of the REAL Father Christmas to the meaning behind Dia De Los Muertos, Brother Todd is full of real life stories that help sharpen our own tools for understanding such things, especially for kids. 

This week's one segment is dedicated to an Easter full of love, gratitude and eagerness for a spring season full of blessings. 

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever made a mark… just to see where it might take you? Our guest today has built a magical world out of that very idea! Peter H. Reynolds is the creative mind behind some of your favorite stories, and he’s here to remind us that every one of us has something special to share. 

Peter just released his brand new book 'When You Dream Big' by Scholastic!    'When You Dream Big' is a joyful celebration of imagination, courage, and all the little steps that turn big dreams into reality. With his signature heart and whimsy, Peter H. Reynolds invites readers to believe in their ideas—even the ones that feel a little too big, a little too bold, or a little too “out there.”

Through playful illustrations and uplifting words, the story reminds us that every great adventure starts with a single spark… and that dreaming big isn’t just for someday—it starts right now.

Perfect for dreamers of all ages, this book is like a gentle cheerleader, encouraging you to take that first step, trust yourself, and see just how far your dreams can go.

Then later we welcome Music Healer, Raphael Groten. Some artists perform… and some transform. Raphael Groten uses music as a bridge—connecting mind, body, and spirit in a way that feels both grounding and uplifting. In a time that is stressed to the max, find a way to slow down. Relax. And let music lead the way. 

Find more about his work at www.raphaelgroten.com

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

Bayona is a highly acclaimed restaurant in the French Quarter, renowned for its creative global cuisine developed by James Beard Award-winning chef Susan Spicer. Located in a beautifully restored 200-year-old Creole cottage, it offers an upscale yet inviting atmosphere with an enchanting garden courtyard.

It is absolutely enchanting, yall. And today we get to hear from Bayona's Executive Chef Christy Engeran.

Engeran began her culinary career at Bayona at age 19, working under Susan Spicer shortly after the restaurant opened in 1990. After decades of experience, including running her own bistro and working in high-end scratch kitchens, she returned to Bayona in 2021 as Chef de Cuisine. She is credited with bringing a "quietly bold" and "refined yet soulful" balance to the menu, continuing the restaurant's legacy of using fresh, local produce.

Chef Christy and I had a ball talking about all things Bayona. I highly encourage you to make a reservation and see for yourself what I am talking about! 

Then Later we welcome from Chattanooga, Tn- Chef Blackwell Smith joins me to talk about his line of Cajun seasonings called "Lucky Cajun Seasoning". The way I see it, if you love New Orleans, and you have passion for New Orleans- who gives a flying flip if you're technically from here. Yall got to try this line of seasonings! Find more about them all at www.theluckycajun.com.

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

World Renowned, Fifth generation  Psychic Medium, Dallisa Hocking has reached millions all over the world and across her 250,000 plus followers across all platforms. She is the founder of Spirit & Spark, a platform that connects people with spiritual teachers and intuitive practitioners. 

Dallisa joined me a couple seasons back, but today she is here for something really wild. Something I cannot even put into words. You'll have to listen. Wait. What? Did she just say... UMMMM. Whoa. 

Find more about her work at www.spiritandspark.com

Then later we talk to my buddy with the green, slick hair. Yall know him! Come on now. The one and only, Joker of New Orleans sat down with me at the incredibly spooky, Apothecary in the French Quarter. It literally has an antique seance table yall. And we sat at it. No seances tho! 

The Joker, too has a large following due to his FREAKING MENTLEISM! You guys, he literally gets inside of your head and reads your thoughts. You've seen this level stuff on AGT, and today he blew my mind. 

Find the Joker of New Orleans on Instagram @thejokersinsta and do me a favor, will ya? WATCH HIS REELS. Just watchem. 

Special thanks to the Apothecary at 725 St. Peter 504-766-8179

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

Billy Ray is an American screenwriter and film director. He has written numerous successful films, including the first Hunger Games movie, Captain Phillips, and Richard Jewell, earning an Oscar nomination for the second film. 

Burn the Water is a new YA dystopian romance novel by Hunger Games screenwriter Billy Ray, released on March 3, 2026, by Scholastic Press. It is a "Romeo and Juliet" style story set in a submerged 2425 London, where two teenagers from rival, warring factions—the Rogues and the Crowns—fall in love.

Find Billy's Brand New Book, Burn the Water- OUT NOW! 

Later, we welcome Tui Sutherland over to congratulate her on the release of her SIXTEENTH precious little dragon egg!! Wings of Fire #16: The Hybrid Prince, releasing on March 3, 2026 by Scholastic.

Find her new book Wings of Fire: The Hybrid Prince wherever books are sold!

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

YALL. Yep. It's one of those times. 

Broadway has always rang my bells. There is just something about it. Maybe it is the live performances? I don't jive with ALL of Broadway musicals BUT Disney? Papa jives with ALLLL of the Disney. 

We took the kids to see Aladdin two years ago and to watch their little faces just made everything perfect. 

Today you guys we are talking to THE MUFASA in New York City. YES!! Broadway!!

Disney's The Lion King has dominated the box office for over 20 years! And our next guest has has played Mufasa for over a decade!!

 L. Steven Taylor is a former Pre-K teacher, turned actor who is best known for his record breaking run as Mufasa in The Lion King on Broadway. His advocacy for Arts Education and his use of Spoken Word to spark conversation and change surrounding Social Justice has earned him the Distinguished Public Service Award from the City of Queens in New York. He is a father, husband and eternal believer in the power that theater has to change hearts, minds and lives.

This one is goo - oo - ooood. 

And find his book on Amazon yall! Sammy & His Lion! 

_____________________________________________

Then Later,

We celebrate National Heart Month with our friends at Ochsner Children's Hospital! 

Dr. Thomas Young, stopped by to chat with me about the importance of not only this month and the visibility it brings, but also to show how he and his amazing team help lead the way, every single day! 

Dr. Thomas Young specializes in pediatric cardiology and adult congenital heart disease at Ochsner Health. Dr. Young earned his medical degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He then remained at VCU for a combined internal medicine and pediatrics residency, serving as chief resident before completing his pediatric cardiology fellowship. He joined Ochsner in 2005. Dr. Young is board-certified in pediatric cardiology by the American Board of Pediatrics and in adult congenital heart disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He practices general pediatric cardiology and adult congenital cardiology. Dr. Young directs the Ochsner Adult Congenital Heart Disease program and is the chief of pediatric cardiology at the Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. He enjoys caring for children and adults with congenital heart disease.

If you or someone you know has any questions relating to this or anything else health related, shoot me an email at [email protected] and we will discuss it on the air with one of our health professionals. 

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

If you could find 100 words to say I love you, what would you do? Well, for Sandra Magsamen it would be creating the cutest book for Scholastic on Valentines day. 

Love is around us everywhere we look. You'll find 100 amazing words and ways to say, "I love you" in this book!

In the bestselling and beloved First 100 Words format, this charming board book includes sturdy pages packed with 100 words to introduce little ones to all the loving ways to say, "I love you". From care to share, to kisses and cuddles, these 100 words are easy to learn, making this the perfect primer for kids learning their first words. With bold and vibrant artwork featuring Sandra Magsamen’s adorable, wide-eyed animal characters on every page, babies and toddlers will enjoy reading these words again and again, making it ideal for bedtime read-alouds!

Featuring Sandra Magsamen's signature message of love, this board book just-right for Valentine’s Day, baby showers gift, new parents, or any occasion!

_________________________________________________

Then later, 

We welcome my new friend, Sue Phillips. THE WORLD’S FOREMOST AUTHORITY ON FRAGRANCE

Global luxury beauty companies, Elizabeth Arden and Lancȏme hired Sue for her marketing expertise, followed by Tiffany & Co who recruited Sue as VP Marketing Fragrance, where she spearheaded the development, creation and launch of the successful TIFFANY perfume for their 150th Anniversary internationally.

From Tiffany, Sue established her company Scenterprises Inc, and designed and launched fragrances for Society by Burberry, Burberry for Men, Diane von Furstenburg and many other well -known brands. Throughout her career Sue’s passion, ability and ingenuity have resulted in her being at the forefront of innovation and always delivering quality products and experiences to her clients.

Listen as her lovely accent guides us through the charm of fragrance! Oh this is a good one yall! 

Find about Sue and so much more at www.suephillips.com

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

What a fun show! 

Back in the day, I was buck. BUCK. And I drove. AND I worked at night clubs on Bourbon Street. All of that equals a driver insurer’s nightmare! HOWEVER, I was very fortunate. Car insurance is vital yall. AND- having the right person to take care of it is even more vital-er? ....Vital! 

And our resident insurance specialist, Leigh Ann from State Farm is here to talk about it. You can find her on the parade route yall! She has the tips and personality to win big in your pocketbook. 

Reach out to Leigh Ann Arcuri today at: 504-962-6846 or www.ridewithla.com

_____________________________________________________________

Then Later,

We welcome past cast member from Disneyland and California Adventure- Jammel Ives. Not only was Jammel a cast member but he was HERO!! FROM BAYMAX!!!! 

Opened in 2023, San Fransokyo, a themed land based on Big Hero 6, located in Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Cali. 

Jammel was brought on to help OPEN this land as the star of Big Hero 6, Hero! He and Baymax himself greeted guests and brought the character to life for over 2 years until Disney unexpectedly terminated his contract. 

As difficult as that was, Jammel shares with us the amazing times he had along with what sparked his love in the very first place! 

AND I EVEN GOT TO DO THE FAMOUS FIST BUMP. 👊 Fa la la la

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...

Send us Fan Mail

You probably remember the bestselling book series, Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger.  The first of those books (for middle grades) has been split into two stunning graphic novels, retelling the thrilling novel.   KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL PART 2 is now told in gorgeous full color.  Here is what was said about the original book (2013!): 

“A large and varied cast of supporting characters and an intriguing premise contribute to make this an exciting start to a promising series.” —Booklist

“A slew of interesting and well-drawn characters, careful plotting, and just plain good storytelling will have readers racing through the pages.” —School Library Journal

Shannon Messenger graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where she studied art, screenwriting, and television production but realized her real passion was writing for kids and teens. Her books have been featured on multiple state reading lists, published in numerous countries, and translated into many languages. And also has landed the movie rights to the series franchise with Emma Watts  (The Martian, The Kingsman, Maze Runner, Deadpool) attached as producer.

_______________________________________________

Then later we welcome back our resident realty specialist, Pam Breaux. Our own realtor from 2015, Pam is a diligent and detail oriented person with an eye for true New Orleans beauty. Add that with Mardi Gras and you have got something really special. 

Reach Pam by email at [email protected] or by phone at 504-400-9234 www.era.com

Support the show

Thank you to our family of amazing sponsors of UNSCRIPTED: The NolaPapa Podcast                                                 

Ochsner Children’s Hospital
Www.ochsner.org

Rouses Markets
Www.ochsner.org

STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT Leigh Ann Arcuri                www.ridewithla.com

Audubon Nature Institute                                                                                                   www.aduboninstutue.org 

Cafe Du Monde                                                                            www.shop.cafedumonde.com                                                                         

Sandpiper Vacations                                                                www.sandpipervacations.com

New Orleans Ice Cream Company                                 www.neworleansicecream.com

ERA TOP REALTY: Realtor Pamela Breaux                                                                Email to:[email protected]

New Orleans Tea Co.                                                 www.neworleansteacompany.com

Bottom of the Cup Tea Room                                                www.bottomofthecup.com

And thank you to our AFTER DARK! Sponsors

Mockly: Alcohol Free Spritzers              ...