The Real Hernando

Host Derrick welcomes Dr. Danton Dye and Lauren McLendon to explain HYPE (Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs) and its relationship to the Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce. They describe HYPE’s purpose of connecting young professionals and entrepreneurs with mentors, building a cycle of giving back, and strengthening the community. The guests outline HYPE’s origins, current stru...

Host Derrick welcomes Brock and Amber Williams to the show to discuss their electrical contracting business, Electrical Repair and Installation, and their nonprofit ministry, Life House. Brock shares how he started the company in 2014 after earning his master’s electrical license, grew from solo service work into residential and commercial crews, and expanded into major accounts and travel work, i...

Host Derrick welcomes Neil Colley, founder of the Fancy Nancy Foundation and host of the Local Yokel's podcast, to spotlight how the foundation—created in honor of Neil’s mother, Nancy Colley—supports DeSoto County nonprofits through fundraising initiatives like vehicle raffles. Neil discusses the current $20-per-ticket raffle of a customized 2013 Jeep Rubicon raising money for House of Grace...

The Real Hernando podcast, presented by Thrive Entertainment and produced by SRP Studios Podcasting, spotlights Angela Kidd of Angela Kidd Insurance, specializing in Medicare, under-65 health insurance/healthcare.gov plans, and life insurance. Angela discusses how her Southaven brick-and-mortar office (8830 Center Street, Suite 1) has helped clients—especially seniors—by providing trusted, in-pers...

The Real Hernando podcast invited Brandon Gustafson and Gustafson Properties, a North Mississippi custom home builder with over 20 years of experience, Certified Graduate Builder designations, 100% Hardy Homes, and a 10-year structural warranty. Co-owner Brandon Gustafson discusses the company’s family roots, their Hernando, Monteith Ave office, and their expanding “one-stop” approach through rela...

Host Derrick welcomes Garvin Keen, a LegalShield associate (DreamScape Consulting), to spotlight how LegalShield provides affordable legal support and IDShield identity protection through a monthly membership that connects members to a dedicated law firm (William Anderson & Farrah for Mississippi and Alabama) with attorney callbacks typically within four hours. Garvin shares his personal motiv...

Derrick Michaud relaunches The Real Hernando 2.0 from a new downtown studio and welcomes back Denise McElhaney of Denise’s Happy Hounds for her third appearance. Denise recaps her luxury dog grooming and pet concierge services, her retail area “The Pampered Pik,” and highlights long-term trust-building success stories with difficult rescue dogs. She discusses winning DeSoto’s Best again, the need...

The Real Hernando podcast returns after a long pause caused by personal challenges in 2025, including a leg injury from a cannonball at Coach Camp’s pool, the end of Wesley Meadows’ three-year presenting sponsorship, and a studio transition from Big Note Music Lessons to a new location at 2375 Memphis Street behind Fratello’s near the square. The host, Derrick, explains the show’s origins with Rob...

In this inspiring episode of The Real Hernando Podcast , hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon shine the spotlight on HYPE – Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs . Founded in 2023, HYPE’s mission is to empower and connect young professionals throughout the Hernando area, building a strong support network for growth and success. Guests Jonathan Hooker and Dr. Danton Dye join the show...

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...