Have a parenting question? Want updates on your favorite businesses around town? Need information on COVID-19? Or, maybe you just want to keep up with what’s happening around the community? Whichever your reasoning, What’s What, BR? is the place for you to find all of those things and more. Providing real, local information that affects our community, What’s What’s, BR? is your go-to location to stay in the know about what’s going on in Baton Rouge. What’s What, BR? is full of community members who are coming together to talk about what makes our community so special, while also providing resources, updates, and even fun. weblog
Episodes
6 days ago
6 days ago
In this episode of What's What BR, Brandon interviews returning guest Congressman Garret Graves, discussing the progress and details of a significant bill related to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The bill, aimed at improving the passenger experience and incorporating new technology in aviation, has passed the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support. They also delve into broader topics such as transportation infrastructure, energy policy, the impact of energy costs on the economy, and the potential for American innovation in solving contemporary energy and transportation challenges. Furthermore, the conversation touches on Graves' potential role in the Transportation Committee, ongoing efforts in coastal restoration, flood protection, and the imperative of a balanced approach to energy that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:25 The Heat of Louisiana and Congressional Recess
01:07 Diving into FAA Bill Discussions
02:10 Improving Passenger Experience and Aviation Technology
06:11 The Legislative Process and FAA Bill Journey
10:31 Exploring Potential Committee Chairmanship and Transportation Impact
15:37 Addressing Energy Policy and Environmental Concerns
24:08 Innovation, Technology, and the Future of Energy
27:02 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects
Friday May 10, 2024
BESE’s Acting President Ronnie Morris
Friday May 10, 2024
Friday May 10, 2024
Advancing Louisiana's Education: Insights from BESE's Acting President
In this episode of What's What BR, guest Ronnie Morris, the acting president of the BESE board, discusses the improvements in Louisiana's K-12 education system, highlighting the state's climb to number 40 in national rankings. Morris shares the strategic focus on literacy, the adoption of phonics, and the deployment of new technologies including AI to enhance education. The episode also covers the significance of addressing teacher shortages, student truancy, and the value of vocational pathways alongside college readiness, emphasizing innovative approaches like virtual hubs and paid internships for real-world experience. Morris advocates for increased collaboration, leveraging technology, and heightened focus on literacy to further improve Louisiana's educational landscape.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
00:33 Louisiana's Educational Progress and Rankings
02:05 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business and Education
03:50 Focusing on Literacy and Educational Improvements
06:04 Exploring the Role and Impact of the BESE Board
08:24 Addressing Teacher Shortages and Truancy
09:59 Innovative Educational Strategies and AI in Classrooms
13:59 Leveraging Technology for Education: The Virtual Hub
16:51 Enhancing Education Through Internships and Apprenticeships
19:05 The College Bound Dilemma: High Aspirations vs. Real Outcomes
19:57 Defining Career and College Readiness in Louisiana
20:46 Setting New Standards for Student Success
21:38 The Importance of Vocational Pathways
23:19 Addressing the Stigma Around Vocational Education
26:07 The Future of Education: Embracing Technology and Real-World Experience
29:56 A Comprehensive Approach to Education Reform
35:51 Closing Thoughts: Investing in Our Future
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Executive Director of Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Lisa Freeman
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Diving Deep into Highway Safety with Lisa Freeman
In this episode of What's What VR, Brandon interviews Lisa Freeman, the Executive Director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission and the governor's representative for highway safety in Louisiana. They discuss the significance of highway safety and its impact on every road user, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Lisa highlights the issues of distracted driving, particularly focusing on the dangers of texting and driving, and the underreporting of such incidents. They also touch on legislation efforts to promote hands-free driving, the importance of responsible driving behaviors, and the role of law enforcement in ensuring road safety. The discussion covers the serious consequences of impaired driving, the risks associated with young drivers and overcrowded vehicles, and the urgency of preventing pediatric vehicular heatstroke. Lisa Freeman emphasizes the need for continuous education, awareness, and personal responsibility in improving highway safety and reducing motor vehicle accidents.
00:00 Welcome to What's What VR: Introducing Lisa Freeman
00:28 The Role and Impact of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission
03:51 Diving Deep into Distracted Driving and Its Consequences
09:10 The Alarming Rise of Traffic Incidents During COVID-19
11:04 Promoting Safety: From Aviation to Roadways
18:15 The Critical Importance of Preventative Measures in Traffic Safety
23:17 Addressing Aggressive Driving and the Importance of Enforcement
25:44 Combatting Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke and Promoting Child Safety
30:39 Concluding Thoughts and the Path Forward
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Celebrating Louisiana Through Children’s Books with Angelle Terrell
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Celebrating Louisiana Through Children's Books with Angelle Terrell
In this episode of What's What VR, we welcome first-time guest and local children's book author, Angelle Terrell. Angelle discusses her journey as a writer, her passion for storytelling, and her excitement for her upcoming second picture book, 'Someone in Louisiana Loves You', set to hit shelves on May 25th. She shares insights into the book's inspiration, its focus on conveying love across distances, and the collaborative effort with her illustrator cousin to bring the book to life with soft, muted colors and relatable imagery of Louisiana cities. Angelle also delves into the challenges of writing for children, the importance of rhyme and educational content, and her promotional plans, including book signings across South Louisiana and educational visits to schools. She emphasizes the book's availability online and in stores, and how interested parties can arrange private readings or school events through her website. Angelle's story is a heartfelt exploration of her love for her state, her children, and her dream of writing.
00:00 Introduction to What's What VR and Guest Angelle
00:32 Angelle's Journey as a Children's Book Author
01:32 The Inspiration Behind 'Someone in Louisiana Loves You'
03:01 Creative Process and Collaboration
03:56 The Challenges of Writing for Children
06:17 Upcoming Book Signings and Educational Outreach
07:13 Private Reads and Educational Aspects of the Book
09:15 How to Find and Purchase the Book
10:04 Engaging with Schools and Communities
12:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Dr. Ashleigh Eaves, PhD at Ochsner
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders with Dr. Ashleigh Eaves
In this episode of What's What VR, guest Dr. Ashleigh Eaves from Ochsner Baton Rouge discusses autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and the importance of acceptance and support. As a licensed psychologist specializing in autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, Dr. Eaves emphasizes the spectrum nature of autism, its presentation from early childhood across a lifespan, and the changing landscape of diagnosis and awareness. She highlights the need for comprehensive care, support for caregivers, and the value individuals with autism bring to communities. The episode also touches on the transition from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month, aiming to foster a more inclusive society.
00:00 Introduction to the Episode and Guest
01:19 Exploring Autism: Understanding the Spectrum
03:48 The Evolving Understanding of Autism
07:46 Early Signs and Diagnosis of Autism
12:56 The Comprehensive Approach to Autism at Oshners
16:44 The Shift from Autism Awareness to Acceptance
20:00 Supporting Families and Individuals with Autism
24:45 Innovative Programs for Autism: Wings for Autism
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Aetna CEO Jess Hall & Sr. Director of Marketing and Community Nikesha
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Empowering Louisiana Communities: Aetna's Mission of Health and Engagement
In this episode of 'What's What VR,' hosts are joined by Jess, the Health Plan President from Aetna for Better Health of Louisiana, and Nikesha Roderick, the Lead Director of Marketing and Community Development. They discuss Aetna's efforts in Medicaid plan management in Louisiana, serving 159,000 members by connecting them to vital care and value-added benefits. Highlighting the importance of community engagement, Nikesha shares insights into her team's work in addressing social determinants of health through grassroots initiatives like the community resource center and educational events aimed at improving overall health outcomes. The episode underscores Aetna's commitment to healthcare accessibility and the proactive approach to wellness and preventive care in Louisiana communities.
00:00 Introduction to What's What VR with Aetna Guests
00:30 A Day in the Life at Aetna: Insights from Health Plan President
01:59 Community Engagement and Development: Nikesha's Perspective
02:56 The Vision of Better Health: Goals and Initiatives
04:57 Upcoming Community Events and Programs
06:44 Impact and Investment: Aetna's Commitment to Community Health
10:19 The Personal Why: Driving Change in the Community
15:29 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Bridging the Early Childhood Education Gap: A Look Inside EBR's Innovative Solutions
In this episode of What's What VR, the discussion focuses on the initiatives of the East Baton Rouge (EBR) school system to address early childhood education through innovative partnerships and programs. Guests Dr. Griffin, Ms. Warren, and Ms. Barnes detail a public-private partnership model involving 'micro centers' that leverage unused school space to provide subsidized childcare for children under four years old, emphasizing the importance of preparing children for kindergarten to address literacy and long-term educational outcomes. They discuss the funding mechanisms, including a state matching grants program and community fundraising efforts, and the challenges of scaling these services to meet the needs of the 29,000 children in the EBR and Baker areas. The conversation highlights the critical role of early childhood education in preventing future educational and social issues, underscoring the need for community support and investment in these programs.
00:00 Introduction to What's What VR with Special Guests
01:03 Exploring Micro Centers: A Partnership for Early Childhood Education
02:58 The Challenge of Serving Baton Rouge's Youngest
05:33 Funding and Expanding Early Childhood Programs
09:18 The Application Process and Program Accessibility
11:19 Addressing Literacy and Preparing for Kindergarten
14:31 The Importance of Early Childhood Education and Community Support
19:38 Closing Remarks and How to Support the Initiative
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Mayor J.T. Taylor on Growth, Development, and Transparency in Livingston
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Mayor J.T. Taylor on Growth, Development, and Transparency in Livingston
In this episode of What's What BR, Mayor J.T. Taylor discusses the substantial growth and development in Livingston Parish, Louisiana, and the challenges and benefits that come with it. Mayor Taylor emphasizes the importance of progressing in a controlled and positive manner to avoid stagnation. He shares insights into various projects, including the introduction of a golf cart ordinance and the construction of an airport to serve corporate and emergency needs, reflecting a broader vision for the parish's future. Additionally, Mayor Taylor talks about his efforts to maintain transparency and communication with residents, including starting his own show to discuss both the achievements and issues faced by the community. Finally, he stresses the significance of real, authentic engagement and the impact of social media on public perception and accountability.
00:00 Welcome to What's What BR with Mayor J.T. Taylor
00:33 Navigating Business and Community Growth During COVID
00:54 Livingston's Growth: Challenges and Opportunities
01:49 Strategic Development and Real Estate Insights
04:15 Community Development and the Golf Cart Ordinance
05:36 The Impact of an Airport in Livingston Parish
08:09 Transparency and Communication: The Mayor's Podcast
10:56 Addressing Challenges and Embracing Community Feedback
17:05 The Importance of Real, Authentic Communication
23:02 Looking Forward: New Initiatives and Community Engagement
Friday Apr 12, 2024
Friday Apr 12, 2024
In this edition of What's What BR, Brandon interviews George Bell, the President and CEO of Capital Area United Way, about his role and the impact of the organization on the Baton Rouge community. Bell shares insights from his transition from a 30-year career in healthcare to leading a major nonprofit, emphasizing the United Way's commitment to addressing social needs and improving lives across a 10-parish area. The organization's projects, including a focus on the ALICE report and investment in community programs, are highlighted along with the critical role of volunteers and the importance of the 211 service for connecting individuals with resources. Bell also discusses the significance of financial stewardship, the impact of the pandemic on service delivery, and future plans for United Way, including celebrating its 100th anniversary with a significant fundraising campaign.
00:00 Introduction to George Bell and the Capital Area United Way
00:55 A Day in the Life of George Bell: Impact and Mission
03:21 Transition from Healthcare to Community Impact
04:20 Addressing Social Determinants of Health
05:54 The Role of Nonprofits in Community Support
07:28 Leveraging Data for Community Investment
12:20 Expanding Support Through Innovative Programs
25:22 The Power of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
32:06 Looking Ahead: Preparing for a Century of Service
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Les Hixon, III, MD of Ochsner Baton Rouge
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Today, we talked with Dr. Les Hixon, a pediatric cardiologist at Ochsner Baton Rouge, focusing on pediatric cardiology and heart health. Dr. Hixon explains congenital heart defects and mentions the increasing number of adults living with congenital heart defects. He emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention for children with heart issues. The conversation also covers the importance of healthy habits, signs to look for in children, and the need for communication with primary care physicians.
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
WWBR Stephen Loy
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Stephen Loy from Nexus Louisiana discusses the support provided to tech entrepreneurs at Louisiana Technology Park. Nexus offers coaching, capital, and connections to tech entrepreneurs. They have an upcoming event, Ignition 2.0, focusing on pitch deck walkthroughs and mentorship. Additionally, they are organizing Brew Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week with networking opportunities and a high-stakes pitch event. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and funding in helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Geoffrey Hogan, M.D. Of Ochsner Baton Rouge
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Friday Feb 09, 2024
Dr. Hogan, a primary care sports medicine physician at Oshner, discusses the growth and multidisciplinary approach of sports medicine. He explains the partnership between Oshner and the Andrews Center to create the Oshner Andrews Sports Medicine Institute. The focus is on patient-first care and using expertise, research, and resources to make a difference in athletes' lives. Dr. Hogan also advises individuals who are starting new exercise routines to consult with professionals for guidance and to avoid overdoing it.
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
Mary Stein – East Baton Rouge Parish Library
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
- What's What BR features one of our favorite returning guests, Ms. Mary Stein from the East Baton Rouge Parish Library.
- We have 355,000 cardholders. There's always room for one more. Because we have a lot of people that drive across the parish line to go to school here. We consider them ours. We'll take them in our big gumbo bowl.
- The library is now fine free for children and senior citizens. People are still responsible to bring back the items. If you don't bring it back after a couple of months we'll send you a friendly little bill.
- Rotary has adopted a school that added to its core pilot project. Kids get to pick a book that they take home for their very own forever and ever. It's about building a habit of reading in the home. The only way to turn the dial on Generational Illiteracy.
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Dr. Corey Falcon, M.D. Of Ochsner Baton Rouge
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Dr. Corey Falcon from Oshner, Baton Rouge. He works in pediatric oncology at Oshner’s. He also does hematology, which is blood disorders.
I’ll be asking all the dumb questions today.
Most of the cancers in children are distinct. Childhood leukemia is the most common cancer in children. There are some types that are similar, but typically the treatments, sometimes they can overlap, but treatments are different.
You’ve got to treat the child, and somewhat, I would think, treat the parents too. The child doesn’t know everything that’s going on, especially depending on age. One thing that’s also important is the siblings. We tell the kids and the families, we’re going to be with you throughout this journey.
There’s some advancements that have been made for treating children. One of the big things is something called immunotherapy. It uses the body’s immune system to fight the cancer. It also limits side effects to the body that traditional toxic chemotherapy can cause. Every little bit is better.
Dr. Falcon says things are moving in the right direction. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It is a tough job, but we’re fortunate and blessed to take care of these wonderful kids.
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Mayor Sharon Weston Broome Of Baton Rouge
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
– We have a returning guest, Mayor President Sharon Weston Broome, with us.
– Mayor President Sharon Weston Broome recently gave a State of the City address at the Press Club. Our theme for this year is Red Stick Rising. She says there are a lot of areas where we know we still have to make improvements. Mayor President Sharon Weston Broome Making improvements is an ongoing daily task for all of us.
– Baton Rouge has invested $21 million in affordable housing in neighborhoods like Mid City and Scotlandville. The city is also repaving 50 miles of roads and replacing 20,000 reflective markers. One of the things our office is working on all day is infrastructure.
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Ronnie Morris
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
– Ronnie Morris was a career ExxonMobil employee. He now sits on the BESE board and has a nonprofit that he started with the hydroponics and the classrooms. One of the challenges is how do we engage kids in education today.
– Another really cool place where kids are getting a lot of hands on experience in school is Walker High School in Walker. Kids know when they go in that there’s more to it than just open a book. It does make education relevant. And when education is fun, boy, spread the word on that.
– We’re not going to have a successful education system without quality educators. 50% of the kids in the state don’t read at grade level. We’ve got to pay our teachers like professionals. But it’s extremely challenging right now.
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Gardere Initiative
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
– Welcome to another episode of What’s What BR. We’ve got a couple of guests with us today from the Gardere Initiative.
– Eight week summer program in spite of the 100 degree temperature. 73 children apply for our summer program.
– We cannot even imagine what this community would be without us being here. And logistics, I don’t think people realize how much of a difference where you’re nested is making a difference.
– Our after school program starting back up again is huge. And then we’ll have our monthly youth events with our youth. We incorporate the dimensions of wellness in everything that we do. The ultimate goal is to make this a safe and healthy community.
– The Gardier Initiative is looking for a board member and volunteers. The organization’s goal is to have a safe and healthy community for Gardier and all of Baton Rouge. If anybody feels passionate about working with young people and would like to be a part of that effort, then please come.
Monday Oct 02, 2023
DR Rachael Kermis, M.D. Of Ochsner Baton Rouge
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
In the recent episode of the What’s What BR Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting DR Rachael Kermis, M.D. with Ochsner Baton Rouge.
– DR. Rachael Kermis, M.D. joins us from Oshners today. It’s definitely hard, these Mondays coming back to work, especially with that heat over the weekend. A lot of people come in dehydrated from being weekend warriors. So we’re getting through it.
– A lot of teenagers have to prioritize between school, extracurriculars and homework. It’s never too late to get your children up to date on their vaccines. Here in the state, there are links to see when other children’s vaccines are due.
– We have sports physicals and we have wellness exams. With the sports physical, we’re looking to see what are your risk factors for having some of these issues that can cause sudden cardiac death in adolescents and in athletes. If you’re not required for a physical, should parents still consider doing one?
– The importance of water, sleep and better food can go a long way to preventing constipation. “That can kind of set you up for a lot of a good immune system,” she says.
– We see a lot of negative impacts that social media can have on mental health, not just of kids, but also on adults. As a parent, what can you do?
– Rachael Kermis, M.D.: Any questions, just reach out to your primary doc, pediatrician, and if we don’t know the answer, we can point you in the right direction with everything.
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
MAYOR-PRESIDENT - SHARON WESTON BROOME
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
- The theme of the week of the month is heat. Thank the good Lord for the air conditioning. If you can stay in the mid 70s, you're doing all right.
- Our Summer of Hope program has been our focus during the summer. It focuses on areas within our community that are at high risk for violence or considered at risk. Public safety is an ongoing issue that mayors across America will continue to work on.
- Mayor: It's not about me, It's about us and our city. I look for partners who want to help join the team of lifting Baton Rouge. If we can get enough people to stop saying negative things, we can make a difference.
- Baton Rouge Community Connect is a technology integrated into our Baton Rouge Fire Department. Residents and business owners can put in information about their homes, their residence, and their business. It gives the fire department an opportunity to respond more quickly and safely to emergencies.
- One of our initiatives with the movie BR that's taking place. College Drive, through our design process in the Movie BR program, will use best practices in access management to modernize the street. There will be some temporary discomfort when the work starts, but we must remember the long-term gain.
- Besides the College Drive Movie BR project, we are completing our 14th project with the Florida Street ADA Compliance project. Public and private partnerships equal a lot of possibilities for our community. We need to know Baton Rouge is good.
Monday Jul 24, 2023
Ashley Rodrigue, Public Affairs Director W/ State Fire Marshal’s Office
Monday Jul 24, 2023
Monday Jul 24, 2023
In this episode of What’s What BR, we meet Ashley Rodrigue, Public Affairs Director w/ the State Fire Marshal's office. Ashley discusses the importance of smoke detectors in the home as well as generator safety during this year's hurricane season.