The Real Hernando

In this heartwarming episode of The Real Hernando , hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon dive into what it truly means to be a good villager — showing up, getting involved, and supporting the people and places that make Hernando special. They share stories, laughs, and inspiration while running through a lineup of exciting community events you won’t want to miss! Upcoming Hernando Events: 🎬...

Today, we are spotlighting Cotillion Social. Their mission is to empower local youth through a transformative cotillion experience that fosters emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and respectful social interaction. By blending traditional etiquette with modern social-emotional learning, they aim to cultivate confident, compassionate, and socially responsible young individuals who are prepared...

On this special episode of The Real Hernando , hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon flip the script and let listeners get to know them better. From their biggest historical influences to their favorite movies, pet peeves, and the most positive memories of 2025, Derrick and Lauren share personal insights and plenty of laughs. They also imagine the perfect day of showing off Hernando to a first...

On this episode of The Real Hernando , host Derrick Michaud opens up about why the podcast has been on pause, sharing his personal story of a pool accident that rendered a broken ankle and leg and the impact it’s had on his business and studio. He also makes a special announcement: Lauren McLendon will officially join as the new co-host moving forward. Together, Derrick and Lauren talk about what’...

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...

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 or...

“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 t...

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 Mead...

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 he...

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. Al...

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 Sponsore...

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 Ha...

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 t...

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 band...

At The Burger Shop in Hernando, they hand-pat, season, and bake their burgers—just like the good ol’ days! No greasy fast food—just fresh, flavorful burgers baked to perfection. Taste the difference at 2662 HWY 51 South in Hernando, MS. Dine in, enjoy outdoor seating, or grab your order with in-store pickup. The Burger Shop—where great burgers are made, not rushed! Today, joining me is Owner, TJ M...

Spa Around the Corner (MS, LMT, 969, 606, 3820, 3838) is the Halotherapy Destination of the Mid-South. Their specialty is relieving chronic pain to make you feel refreshed and energized. Spa Around the Corner was founded in 2013 to bring their clientele relief from chronic pain through massage, using exclusive spa quality, hand-blended products to nurture, heal, and rejuvenate the body. Today, joi...

At Denise's Happy Hounds, they’re not just a grooming service; they are a family, passionate about pampering your pets. Located just two blocks north of the Square off Highway 51 in Hernando, MS, their dog spa is a haven where your furry friends get the VIP treatment they deserve. They believe every pup deserves to be loved, played with, and groomed to perfection, regardless of size, breed, o...

Tadpool Swim School is an indoor private swim school offering one-on-one swim lessons customized for each individual and filled with fun! Ashley's focus is the comfort, safety, and progress of every single child. And, of course, they have a great time! ​ Ashley is Red Cross certified, has owned and operated her own daycare, was a swim instructor at Germantown Athletic Club, and is an advocate...

Today, we are spotlighting CrossFit Hammered Steel Their mission is to help you “Change Your Life With Us.” It isn’t the scientific sum of calories, workouts, and weight that keeps their members returning. It isn't the cutting-edge equipment and technology. It is the people who count. Their staff cares about guiding and encouraging each member to obtain the goals they seek. The members’ goals...

Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls with Jessica Hurdle & Brandon Jenkins Find at www. TheRealHernando.com Pok Cha’s Egg Rolls, LLC is a Korean Fusion Takeout located right here in Hernando. Learn more about their beginnings as a food truck and how they took steps to opening up the new restaurant on 131 West Commerce St in Hernando, MS. www.pokchas.com The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley M...

Today, we are spotlighting Jill Morris and Stars in Motion Stars In Motion, founded ​​​in 1997, strives to provide superior dance education, cutting-edge fitness opportunities, and the most current choreography.  Their highly trained instructors continue to learn through master classes, teaching conferences, and professional development. Stars In Motion is a fun and safe environment to learn and g...

Today, we are spotlighting Tea & Tisanes Enjoy their traditional tea service in their festive and cozy tea room. All of their tea and tisanes are blended with the highest quality, fresh, organic, and/or locally sourced herbs, fruits, and flowers.  No artificial or misleading natural ingredients added. And they use only spring or distilled water for their infusions. They also serve soups, salad...

Heather Ries joins the show to shares her story about moving to the new location on McIngvale Rd. Mrs. Hippie Eats is a Gourmet Grab & Go in Hernando. Everything is made from scratch, in house, daily. NO SEATS, JUST EATS http://www.mrshippieeats.com Heather and Joey Ries joined the show back in 2022 and shared the origin story behind the formation of Mrs. Hippie Eats. You can find the episode...

Today, we are spotlighting The Arc Northwest Mississippi, an advocacy nonprofit for individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. They create events and programs that help people with special needs live their best lives, help their families connect to critical services, and educate the community about the people they serve. Joining me is Executive Dir...

Today, we spotlight The Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce and HYPE, Hernando Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs. HYPE seeks to empower the next generation of leaders by providing resources, opportunities, and connections that promote professional growth, community engagement, and collaboration. Joining me is Membership Services Coordinator Bailee Harris. And Board Member & HYPE Cha...