Justin Young was recently released after serving 13 years in the correctional system. What is the relationship between prisoners returning to society and strong communities, without overlooking the needs of victims of crime? Justin shares his perspective on all the dynamics at play on this twist on the Red Stick Strong podcast.

[Please note: This interview was recorded Saturday, May 30, 2020.] Mental health has been one of the ongoing conversations during the pandemic—a positive development in terms of awareness and people openly discussing issues like depression, anxiety, self-harm, and other related topics. Chelsea Borruano is the Executive Director and founder of the You Aren’t Alone Project. The You Aren’t Alone Project is a network of support for mental health and wellness across Baton Rouge so no one ever feels alone.

Listeners take a look in the mirror—do you need a haircut? Of course, we’ve all seen the memes about haircuts during the pandemic. But barbering is serious business; it’s also a service that happens in close contact. How has the industry (and individual barbers) responded? Quincy Jackson is a barber and proprietor of Q Jackson Barbershop. Quincy talks about what he’s doing; new training he’s received from industry leaders; how he’s in contact with fellow barbers like he’s never done before.

Handmade tortillas, slow smoked brisket, fresh margaritas (no mix, made with love)—this and more can be found at JoVi’s Tacos (13214 Coursey Blvd, Suite A, Baton Rouge.) Can you imagine what it would be like to open your restaurant on February 1st… and a few weeks later find yourself in a global pandemic? Jorge and Virginia Flores tell their story of fast adaptation and amazing community support on this episode of Red Stick Strong. The patio is open! The tacos are ready!

Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge holds the vision of being a healing place for a hurting world. What does that mean in the age of pandemic? Marla Stroup (pastor of the Highland Road campus) and JT Terry (youth pastor of the North Baton Rouge campus) share their insights from the last few weeks. HPC is known for a strong digital game; they still had to adapt to make "church at home" happen. JT explains the impact of stay at home on local youth and how HPC continues to serve, even in difficult times.

Don’t be afraid of your BRAND! Matt Dardenne, Creative Director and Co-Owner of Red Six Media is on the Red Stick Strong podcast to talk about how to communicate who you are as business right now. Matt and the Red Six team have been working on several collaborative campaigns including 19 Thanks and the virtual Second Line that happens tonight! Listen to this episode to learn how to communicate who you are as a business, plus how a campaign can be a beacon of hope in a tough time.

Alissa Jenkins is a top-producing Realtor in Baton Rouge who is known for her commitment to community. As COVID-19 hit, Alissa made deliveries to friends and neighbors to spread some joy, and in turn put into practice her belief in caring for people and fostering connection in community. How can professionals help out now? How has real estate innovated during the global pandemic, and what’s ahead? Alissa shares her insights on this episode of Red Stick Strong.

Have you noticed some beautiful window paintings on Baton Rouge store fronts? Ellen Ogden is a local fine artist and muralist, she is reflecting love by sharing her painting skills for businesses during the pandemic. Ellen is creating beautiful illustrations for businesses, interwoven with uplifting messages. Ellen is still offering her window painting services through her REFLECT LOVE campaign on a pay what you can basis.

Seth Irby, Chief Marketing & Customer Experience Officer for LWCC joins us on Red Stick Strong to discuss the newly launched LWCC Foundation. The foundation is kicking things off with the $1.1 million Louisiana Well Again initiative. The initiative started with a $100,000 contribution to Feeding Louisiana. Seth discusses what else is in store for the LWCC Foundation, including a call for grant applications that is occurring right now, designed to help frontline medical workers.

Getting the message out about your business is important; getting the message out during a crisis is critical. Mark Vincent and Jaimee Eachus of Rebel Graphix join Red Stick Strong to talk about reaching out as a business, delivering encouraging words, and the importance of communication. Business owners will gain a lot of ideas about how to stay in touch with the community on this episode.