What's Up Saraland!

In this deliciously fun episode, we're taking your taste buds on a tour around our community! From the hidden gems to the fan-favorite hotspots everyone's lining up for, we're breaking down the best places to grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  We'll chat through new restaurant openings you should know about, long-time staples that still have our hearts, and menu items you must try on your next ni...

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Bexley, the president of  The Sparty Foundation — the driving force behind so many of the programs and projects that make our local schools shine. From beloved community events like Derby Day and Breakfast with Sparty and Santa, to behind-the-scenes efforts that directly impact students and teachers, The Sparty Foundation is all about giving back in meani...

In this episode, the mic gets flipped as one host steps into the hot seat! Laurel shares her journey from starting in the insurance world at just 17 years old to becoming a successful State Farm agent and community leader. She opens up about the creative marketing strategies she's used to give back while growing her business, and the heart behind the local projects she's spearheaded to make a diff...

In this episode, we sit down with former Big Daddy Weave drummer turned top-selling Realtor, Jeff Jones, to talk about his incredible journey from the stage to the world of real estate. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his touring days, the challenges of finding his next calling after life on the road, and how a brief stint in public speaking opened the door to a whole new career. What sta...

October is here and with that the spooky season is officially upon us. We discuss all the fun fall activities to add to your calendar.  Get your costume's ready because we are bringing you all the treats and no tricks on this episode!  

In this episode, we sit down with the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Saraland, Ashley-Nicole Flowers, to explore the many ways Saraland is enriching lives across the community. From providing free after-school snacks and drinks at the community rec center, to offering lively line dancing classes designed to keep our seniors moving and connected, the department is going above and bey...

In this episode, we sit down with local business owner Rocky Fremin whose journey is as inspiring as it is impactful. Growing up in foster care, she learned resilience early on which has fueled her success in launching and growing multiple businesses. Known for her gift in marketing and networking, she has built a reputation for excellence in the business world. But behind her entrepreneurial driv...

n this episode, we're recapping all the powerful moments from the recent Built For This Women's Leadership Conference. From start to finish, the day was filled with inspiration, practical tools, and stories that left a lasting impact. We walk through highlights from each speaker, including a confidence coach who shared strategies for owning your voice, a CFO with a money-making strategy session, s...

September is packed with things to do right here in our community, and we've got all the details for you! In this episode, we're sharing local restaurant deals you won't want to miss, highlighting an upcoming nonprofit gala and 5K, and giving you the inside scoop on what's happening at the Satsuma Public Library this month. Plus, we'll walk through the Saraland High School football schedule so you...

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Sonnie Hicks, who has walked through unimaginable pain and loss—losing two siblings, surviving a traumatic train accident, and navigating life's unexpected turns. Through it all, Sonnie has discovered resilience, faith, and a renewed passion for truly living. Join us as she shares her journey of heartbreak and healing, what it took to mo...

On this weeks episode we sit down with Gabby Rocha the Social Media and Marketing manager for Saraland's sportsplex referred to as The Land.  We are so excited to hear about all of the fun things coming for our families to take advantage of, and will continue to bring you more information as we receive it on the official Grand Opening currently targetted for November 2025. In the meantime we encou...

In this inspiring conversation we sit down with local, Marrianne McLain, who took a bold step of faith leaving her career behind to serve as a missionary in Indonesia. She shares her powerful story of navigating a new culture, building relationships across language barriers, and witnessing life-changing moments on the mission field. Now back home, she has stepped into a new chapter as the Missions...

On this special episode you can listen in on the Saraland Mayoral Candidate Forum hosted by the Saraland Area Chamber of Commerce. You can catch the video footage on the Saraland Area chamber of commerce Facebook page but if you are driving we invite you to listen in. Unfortunately due to technical issues the council audio was not captured, but the large majority of it is available on their Facebo...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with the founder of Project Outreach, Scott Parks, a local nonprofit that's changing the way schools and communities embrace inclusion. What began as a simple idea to connect students with special needs to their peers has grown into a powerful movement promoting empathy, friendship, and understanding across school campuses. Learn how this initiative fosters m...

Join us for part 2 of our conversation with Agape Life Gardens.  Make sure you go back and listen to last week's episode for part 1 if you haven't already!

Content Advisory: This episode includes real stories of addiction and recovery, which may not be suitable for all listeners. In this powerful episode, we sit down with the team behind Agape Life Gardens , a local nonprofit that began as a simple community garden and has grown into a thriving ministry dedicated to helping individuals transition from addiction recovery to a life rooted in Christ. Wh...

In this episode of What's Up Saraland,  we sit down with JJ Nelson, the owner of one of our community's favorite local restaurants, Barnhill's Buffet, to hear the incredible story behind the man and the business. From his brief time at the U.S. Naval Academy to a daring adventure in Hollywood—where he snuck onto a movie set and found work—to eventually returning home to carry on his mother's legac...

In this episode, we're shining a spotlight on all the exciting and meaningful events happening in our community this July! From fireworks lighting up the sky to resources that help families get ready for the new school year, there's something for everyone. We're sharing the details on a local Back-to-School Bash offering free school supplies, a uniform swap to help ease the back-to-school budget,...

In this episode, we sit down with Valarie McKinley, the Executive Director of The Home of Grace, a local recovery center that's helping women break free from addiction and rebuild their lives. More than just a recovery program, The Home of Grace offers women a safe place to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually—rooted in the truth of the biblical gospel. Learn how this faith-based ministry...

In this episode of What's Up Saraland , we're sitting down with time management expert Anna Dearmon Kornick to explore practical ways to take control of your schedule and stop feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're juggling work, family, or community commitments, Anna shares simple, effective strategies to help you make the most of your time—without burning out. From morning routines to prioritizing...

In this special episode of What's Up Saraland, we sit down with none other than Coach Jeff Kelly — the man behind one of the most successful high school football programs in the state. A Saraland native, Coach Kelly takes us on a heartfelt journey from his early days growing up in the city and playing football as a kid, to leading the Spartans as head coach with passion, purpose, and pride. We tal...

In this episode of  What's Up Saraland , we're diving into all the exciting things happening in our community this June and July! Whether you're looking for fun, connection, or a new job, we've got you covered. We talk about Project Outreach's "A Night of Change"—an inspiring event you won't want to miss that's bringing hope and unity to our area. We highlight July 4th fireworks shows lighting up...

In this inspiring episode of What's Up Saraland, we sit down with local social media influencer and community motivator, Alle Elmore, otherwise known as _AlliefromAlabama_ who turned her passion for positivity into real success. From creating uplifting content to running a thriving TikTok Shop, she shares how her side hustle allowed her to purchase a brand new Chevy Tahoe — all while empowering wo...

In this episode of  What's Up Saraland , we sit down with Donna Hughes, a dedicated leader from the Saraland school system who is making big strides in preparing students for life beyond graduation. With Alabama currently ranked 10th in the nation for brain drain — the loss of educated young people to other states — our guest sheds light on how local schools are stepping up to reverse this trend....

On the May Spotlight Dani gives a shoutout to Dr. Veronica Hudson for a recent award she received from the University of Mobile. We talk about Laurel's new favorite hidden gem the Little Heritage boutique on Shelton Beach Rd in Saraland. A few places are hiring including Laurel Flowers State Farm which you can apply by going to SFAgentFlowers.com/jobs . We talk about the Women's Resource Center's...