Soul Sessions Jackson

Think great writers are all serious business? Not in Jackson, where literary legend Eudora Welty left her mark with both brilliance and playful spirit! On today's show, we're celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Eudora Welty House with Welty Education Specialist Anna Traylor, who's bringing the beloved author's vibrant legacy to new generations at this perfectly preserved piece of Jackson hist...

From appetizers to entrées, Jackson's culinary scene is serving up a feast for the senses that's as rich as our Mississippi soil. On today's show, we're dishing with Amanda Fitzgerald from the local palate about the much-anticipated JXN Food & Wine festival, where over 30 chefs from across the South will bring their unique flavors to our capital city for a two-day culinary celebration. TRANSCRIPT:...

Sometimes losing your tech job leads you straight to your calling – just ask the man who turned his weekend hobby into Jackson's hottest food truck. On today's show, we visit with Eddie Wright of Eddie Wright BBQ. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-eddie-wright

From Beatles inspired dishes to family style feasts, Chef Enrika Williams proves that nostalgia can be deliciously innovative. From nerding out about Apple varieties with Chef Hunter Evans at Elvie's to watching him shine at the James Beard House in New York recently, Enrika shares what makes Jackson's collaborative food scene so special. Plus she gives us a glimpse of what's cooking for the upcom...

On today's show, restaurateur Chaz Lindsay takes us inside his newest venture, Rowan's - a neighborhood pub that's 'family-friendly by day, a little loose at night.' From fried bologna sandwiches to weenie martinis, we'll explore how this former donut shop is being transformed into Belhaven's newest gathering spot, plus get the scoop on what's cooking at the upcoming Jackson Food and Wine Festival...

Think coffee is just a quick caffeine fix? Think again—it's an art, a science, and a connection to the world around us. We’re diving in with Trey Malone—coffee aficionado and CEO at Northshore Specialty Roasters—about how a great cup of coffee isn’t just about the brew, but about creating spaces that connect us all. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-trey-malone

In this episode of Soul Sessions, we celebrate Mississippi's cultural spotlight at the Tournament of Roses Parade. Dr. Roderick Little, Director of the Sonic Boom of the South, discusses the band's preparation and significance in representing Jackson and HBCUs. Katie Coats from Visit Mississippi shares insights on their first-ever float honoring musical legends Elvis Presley and B.B. King, emphasi...

In this episode of Soul Sessions, host Paul Wolf talks with guest curator Sharbreon Plummer to explore the Mississippi Museum of Art's exhibition 'Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South.' The conversation delves into the selection process of quilts, the personal stories behind them, and the cultural significance of quilting as a form of artistic expression and community bonding....

In this episode of Soul Sessions, host Paul Wolf speaks with Lynsie Armstrong, the event coordinator for Capital City Lights, a holiday event in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. They discuss the event's evolution, community engagement, and the various activities planned for families and attendees. The conversation highlights the importance of creating an intimate and festive atmosphere while showcas...

In this episode, Kamel King, the director of cultural tourism for Visit Mississippi, discusses the state's cultural trails program, which includes the Mississippi Blues Trail, Country Music Trail, Freedom Trail, and Writers Trail. King shares insights on the impact of these trails, memorable unveilings of markers, and the importance of recognizing local legends. Transcript: https://www.visitjackso...

On today's show, we talk Mistletoe Marketplace, organized annually by the Junior League of Jackson. Douglas Strahan Loftin and Carter Whitehood share insights about the event's history, its impact on the community, and the various activities and vendors that make it a cherished holiday tradition. Transcript: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-mistletoe

In this episode, meet Sophie McNeil Wolf, the Director of Communications and Insights for the Community Foundation for Mississippi. We discuss Sophie's journey in community work, the role of community foundations, and their impact on local projects in Jackson. The conversation highlights CFM's November Friendsgiving event, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and generosity in Missis...

On today's show, Belhaven residents George and Ann Elizabeth Gillespie just opened Wing Mouth at Belhaven Town Center, a simple concept that specializes in wings, tenders and fries. And after years in the restaurant business, George says they're filling a need for more fast, casual options at the town center, a spot that's brimming with activity almost every day of the week. TRANSCRIPT: https://ww...

On today's episode, the Garden Mama, Nellie Neal talks about the upcoming Fondren Garden and Bottle Tree Tour and the importance of community in gardening, innovative practices in Jackson, and advice for aspiring gardeners. Transcript and show notes: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-nellie-neal

On today's episode, we talk to Conner Reeves about Belhaven's Bright Lights, a celebration of the artisans, musicians and creators of the Greater Belhaven neighborhood that features music, food, and local vendors.

Today, Ellen Daniels, the executive director of the Mississippi Book Festival, discusses the ten-year-old festival's history and what makes it special. The festival brings together authors and book lovers from all walks of life, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere. TRANSCRIPT AND SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-ellen-daniels-24

Today in this encore presentation, De Shannon Williams is one of the owners of Smokey's Meal on Wheels food truck, and she's an organizer of Food Truck Fridays, which have returned to Smith Park in downtown Jackson every first, third and fifth Friday.

On today’s episode, artist Noah Satterstrom discusses his exhibition 'What Became of Dr. Smith' at the Mississippi Museum of Art and how his curiosity led him to uncover his great-grandfather's story. The exhibition explores themes of mental illness, family history, and the power of art to spark conversations. TRANSCRIPT, RESOURCES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-noah-saterstrom

On today’s episode, Yolanda Singleton, President and CEO of Xxperience JXN, discusses her role as a promoter, community advocate, and trendsetter in bringing entertainment to Jackson, Mississippi. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-yolanda-singleton

On today’s episode, the Two Mississippi Museums’ Ayana Jones helps give context to Freedom Summer, where over 700 mainly white volunteers came to our state and teamed up with African Americans for a voter registration drive to boost Black voter registration and combat discrimination and intimidation. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-ayana-jones

On today's episode, Two Mississippi Museums’ Executive Director Michael Morris joins us to share a look at Juneteenth. And Michael helps to tie in this holiday to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. SHOW NOTES: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-michael-morris-juneteenth

On today's episode, Justin Nipper, the marketing and events manager at the Ag Museum, gives us a look at Pickle Fest. It's an event that's drawing record interest this year for its brine-soaked celebration of all things pickled. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-justin-nipper-pickle-fest GUIDE TO PICKLE FEST: https://www.visitjackson.com/pickle-fest/

In this episode, we're celebrating local businesses and events - Offbeat's 10-year anniversary and the upcoming 601 JXN Day celebration. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-phillip-rollins-kim-lewis

In this episode, Aseelah Rashid, the new director of the International Museum of Muslim Cultures in Jackson, Mississippi, discusses the significance of the museum being the first of its kind in America and its role in educating people about Islam and Muslim cultures. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-aseelah-rasheed

In this episode, Elvie's Chef Hunter Evans, a James Beard finalist, discusses his nomination and his plans for a classic Jackson restaurant. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-hunter-evans/