Parish Porch: Voices of Ascension & Livingston Parish

This week on Parish Porch, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the most impactful programs shaping young leaders in our community, JROTC. Commander (Aaron) Bates, a retired U.S. Navy officer, joins us to talk about his journey from cadet to commanding officer and how he’s now using that experience to guide students at St. Amant High School.

We talk about:

• The real purpose of JROTC (spoiler: it’s not military recruitment)
• How disci...

In this episode of Parish Porch, we sit down with Skipper McInnis and Amy Shamburger, two familiar faces now behind the scenes at one of Ascension Parish’s most beloved staples: Country Kitchen. For decades, this no-frills buffet has been serving up fried chicken, biscuits, and mashed potatoes that taste like home. But it’s more than just the food. It’s the stories, the people, and the legacy they’ve preserved since taking over fro...

What if every child got a starring role in their own story?

In this episode of Parish Porch, we sit down with Alyson Coyle, founder of Big Dreams Drama Program in Livingston Parish, and what unfolds is nothing short of magic. Alyson shares how she’s redefining youth theater with a no-audition, collaboration-first model that lets every kid shine. No rejection. No gatekeeping. Just raw creativity, radical kindness, and space for every...

What happens when a hometown man mixes community spirit with premium bourbon? In this episode, we sit down with Brandon, lifelong resident of Ascension Parish and owner of the beloved Curve Mart—a go-to spot for plant workers and whiskey lovers alike.

Brandon shares his journey, how Curve Mart became a local favorite, and how he’s giving back in a big way—presenting a check to a local veterans’ group and hosting a can’t-miss giveawa...

What do boudin, Pride parades, and viral Facebook posts have in common? One unforgettable guest—Mark Belgard, the three-time Parish Person of the Year and mastermind behind a movement that’s part comedy, part community care—the Ascension Parish Department of Memes Facebook page. 

In this episode, Mark opens up about building a side income through content creation and using it to fund generous local giveaways. We dive into the art of...

We’re kicking off Parish Porch with a powerful conversation that proves just how much local voices matter.

Dustin Delaune, President of Ascension Community Theatre, joins us on the day they open Cabaret to talk about 25 seasons of grit, growth, and community connection. Whether you're a theater lover, a proud local, or just someone who believes in the power of the arts, this episode delivers.

You’ll hear how ACT grew from a smal...