Ever been to Jazz Fest, or want to go? We've got all the insider tips you need to have a great time!
Interested in haunted New Orleans? Ghost stories and other popular and untold legends? This is the episode for you! Join me and guest Orion Couling as we talk about his experience leading haunted tours around New Orleans.
One of the things I really like to do with the podcast is highlight businesses I think you would enjoy that also have owners who seem to do things right. My guest today is one of those. Róbert LeBlanc is the founder of Leblanc + Smith, a hospitality company with several local businesses.
Wondering what to do in New Orleans post-Mardi Gras? We've got you covered in this episode.
Today's episode is your Mardi Gras survival guide. We'll go through everything you need to know to enjoy parade season in New Orleans!
Today's episode is our annual discussion of Carnival and Mardi Gras in New Orleans with Arthur Hardy, publisher of the Mardi Gras Guide.
We discuss history, anniversaries, impact on the economy, what's new in 2024 and more.
Today’s episode is a Q&A show with questions from listeners like you. As always, questions from our Patreon supporters come first, followed by those from our Facebook Group.
05:10 - Jeffrey Hubbard - French Quarter Fest paid pass
07:02 - Joseph Grillo - 2nd edition of BBS book? Dew Drop Inn
09:00 - Mark Wingfield - Most Romantic places in NOLA
11:15 - Mark Wingfield - March Madness
13:45 - James Redmond - Festivals/events in August
16:35 - Hannah Voss - Busker payment
18:00 - DC Big Papa - Easier Krewes to ride in or join
21:30 - Michael Kaufman - Where else in the US do you want to visit?
22:45 - Eric Boyle - Documentary Films about New Orleans
26:30 - John Nordike - Discuss the process of your book - ep157
27:20 - John Nordike - James Lee Burke interview
28:30 - Maggie Macgyver - photography in your book
31:25 - Christy Johnson - the magic of New Orleans
In this episode, we dive into many of the things that make this time of year great for a visit to New Orleans!
Episode 2 - Winter events in New Orleans
Episode 79 - Reveillon
Episode 148 - Reveillon
Episode 149 - Cafe Brülot
Miracle Bar at Barrel Proof
Mistletoe @ the Hyatt
Latitude 29 in the Bienville House Hotel
Snake & Jake's Christmas Lounge
Roosevelt Hotel
Four Seasons
Ritz-Carlton
Hotel Monteleone
The Columns
Le Pavillon
The Chloe
Experience the immersive and interactive Vue Orleans exhibit, where visitors are transported into the history and culture of New Orleans. From interactive exhibits to breathtaking views, the attraction offers a comprehensive experience of the city.
You won't find a better way to take in the city from above. The view alone is worth it. - Karen Coaxum
In this episode, you will be able to:
Join Scott Eddy and Chris Palmer as they embark on a thrilling river cruise down the iconic Mississippi River. From intimate connections with fellow travelers to capturing breathtaking photography, their journey promises adventure and discovery.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Slowing down and enjoying the nuances of a place is something we don't do enough of in our fast-paced lives. - Chris Palmer
Curated experiences like a river cruise allow you to go beyond the tourist attractions and truly immerse yourself in the local culture. - Scott Eddy
The Mississippi River Voyage discussed in this episode was put on by American Queen Voyages.
To follow Scott on social media:
Instagram (@MrScottEddy)
Twitter (@MrScottEddy)
Facebook
LinkedIn
Creating a More Inclusive Experience: Incorporating Slavery into Garden District Tours with Christine Miller and Karen Fernandez
Join tour guides Christine Miller and Karen Fernandez as they dive deep into the history of the Garden District, uncovering the often overlooked role of slavery in its development. From the architectural landmarks built by enslaved people to the complex narratives of the neighborhood, this tour will leave you questioning the stories you thought you knew. Are you ready to confront the uncomfortable truths of the past?
In this episode, you will be able to:
* Discover the hidden stories of the Garden District that reveal the impact of slavery, shedding light on a crucial chapter of New Orleans' history.
* Explore the historical and architectural significance of the Garden District, unlocking the secrets behind its unique charm and beauty.
Get ready to groove with Big Sam, the renowned trombonist and bandleader of Big Sam’s Funky Nation. Join him as he shares his insights on the importance of putting on a show and preserving New Orleans’ musical heritage.
Big Sam Williams, the renowned New Orleans musician, has always had a deep passion for music. From a young age, he knew he wanted to do something extraordinary with his talent. His journey began in middle school when he joined the marching band, seeking an outlet for his musical aspirations. Little did he know, this decision would shape his future.
Introduced to the trombone by a music teacher named Daryl Dickerson, Big Sam quickly fell in love with the instrument. Despite his initial struggles, he persevered, teaching himself to play by ear and immersing himself in the world of music theory. As he honed his skills, he realized that he had a natural talent for reading music and a deep understanding of musical concepts.
In high school, Big Sam and his friends formed their own band, the Stooges Brass Band, which marked the beginning of his professional music career. Through his experiences in various marching bands and collaborations with esteemed musicians, Big Sam found his calling and has since become a celebrated figure in the New Orleans music scene. His story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the transformative nature of music.
Discover the captivating history of Louisiana through a lens in John Lawrence's new book. From the elegant autochrome process to the timeless allure of Mardi Gras, these photographs transport you to a bygone era. Now, after four decades of curating historic New Orleans photographs, he unveils Louisiana Lens, a captivating book that takes you on an immersive journey through time.
In this episode of Final Cuts, host Mark Bologna sits down with John Lawrence, the former curator of the Historic New Orleans Collection's photography holdings. Lawrence recently released a book called Louisiana Lens, which showcases a hundred photographs from the collection.
Lawrence's passion for photography led him to become the curator of photographs, shaping the growth of the collection over the years. The goal of his book was to select 100 photographs that represent the development of photographic technology and offer individual interpretations to each viewer.
Through images accompanied by narratives, the book allows readers to explore the multilayered nature of each photograph, weaving together the immutable characteristics of the image, its historical context, and the personal interpretation of the viewer.
Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply interested in the history of Louisiana, this episode provides a deeper understanding of the state's rich history through the lens of photography. So grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and dive into the captivating world of Louisiana's history through the camera lens.
"A photograph needs to be appreciated for what it was then at that moment, but also through the lens of today." - John Lawrence
Have you ever heard the myths surrounding absinthe?
Myth #1: Absinthe can make you hallucinate.
Myth #2: It was banned for being a dangerous drug.
Myth #3: The Green Fairy was a mystical presence associated with absinthe.
In this episode, our guest Marielle Songy will reveal the truth behind these intriguing tales and unravel the fascinating history and culture of absinthe.
Step into the captivating world of absinthe, where the threads of history intertwine with the allure of a mysterious elixir. Join Marielle Songy as she uncovers the secrets behind the enigmatic Absinthe Frappé, a cocktail that holds the key to New Orleans' vibrant past. With every page turned, immerse yourself in the tales of bartenders and bans, controversies and creativity.
Marielle Songy, a food and culture writer from the New Orleans area, found herself captivated by the rich history and cultural significance of absinthe. When approached by LSU Press to write a book for their iconic New Orleans cocktail series, she was drawn to the Absinthe Frappé, a unique cocktail that originated in New Orleans.
With a love for absinthe and a desire to delve into its intriguing past, Marielle embarked on a journey to uncover the origins and stories behind this enigmatic spirit. From the invention of the Frappé to the controversies and bans surrounding absinthe, Marielle's research allowed her to explore the deep connections between absinthe, art, and literature. Through her writing, she brings to life the vibrant history and cultural significance of absinthe, inviting readers on a journey of discovery into the world of this beloved and misunderstood spirit.
Absinthe has touched so much throughout history, in art and writing and things like that. It has a connection to New Orleans because of its French connections. - Marielle Songy
In this episode, you will be able to:
Does the story of a forgotten cultural landmark, at the crossroads of history and music, resonate with you?
Preservationist developer Curtis Doucette breathes life into the historic Dew Drop Inn, fighting to restore its musical legacy and create a space that honors the past while embracing a diverse future.
In this episode, you will be able to:
"Our goal with the Dew Drop Inn project is to restore it to its former glory and be as close to what it used to be as possible." - Curtis Doucette
In this episode, Mark is enjoyed by guest Chris Masrhsall. Together, they answer listener questions about New Orleans.
05:05 - Top 5 Restaurants in Bywater/French Quarter or walking distance?
07:50 - Advance ticket sales for New Orleans Museum of Art?
09:25 - Connection between New Orleans and French Wine?
12:15 - Where do you beat the heat in CBD/Marigny for a drink or bite to eat?
14:05 - Do you see New Orleans population growing dramatically?
18:00 - Ways to help the Unhoused population
21:35 - Bars/restaurants in Lakefront area?
25:55 - Celebrating 25th anniversary in NOLA what 2 restaurants should they choose?
29:10 - Sailing Clubs on Lake Ponchartrain
30:40 - A 2nd Edition of the BBS Book?
31:50 - Growth of Vietnamese influence in New Orleans food
35:30 - Restaurants/Bars that locals avoid still worth a visit?
39:30 - Mark hosting a Book Club?
41:00 - New Orleans Thanksgiving plans
41:30 - Taking kids on adventures outside of New Orleans
44:45 - Any breweries that serve cocktails as well?
47:50 - Safety in the French Quarter
50:50 - How to Be a “good tourist” in New Orleans
53:40 - Streetcar episode?
54:10 - Historic ships to tour?
54:50 - What is the best seafood restaurant not fried in the French Quarter?
56:10 - Asian Market in New Orleans?
57:30 - What can ages 18-20 do when traveling to New Orleans?
1:00:10 - Lingua Madre
Discover the incredible story of Drew and Kathleen Ramsey as they face unimaginable challenges in their mission to revive Hubig's Pies. From surviving Hurricane Katrina to rebuilding after a devastating fire, their determination and resilience will inspire you. But will they be able to overcome their latest obstacle and bring back the iconic dessert? Find out in this gripping podcast episode.
"We didn't know what we didn't know. It was a complete loss, but we salvaged what we could and rebuilt from scratch. We put in the time and effort because we wanted to preserve the legacy of our pies and the relationships we've built with our community, suppliers, and customers". - Kathleen Ramsey
Discover the hidden tale of New Orleans' battle against water, where an unexpected twist shaped the city's destiny. Journey alongside Richard Campanella as he unravels the secrets of its transformative drainage system, revealing a startling revelation.
Brace yourself for a revelation that challenges everything we thought we knew about this historic city. This captivating exploration will leave you questioning the past, present, and future of New Orleans' water management.
Geography and Topography's Influence
The influential role of topography and geography on drainage strategies in New Orleans was a significant point of discussion. Being positioned below sea level, the city has had to innovate and overcome floods and water management difficulties over time. Accordingly, the understanding and effective handling of the city's unique geographical context is vital for combating current and future water-related issues.
Economic and Public Health Motivations
Behind the establishment and progression of New Orleans' drainage systems were economic interests and pronounced public health concerns. Disease outbreaks such as the 1878 epidemic and the resulting public health crisis brought to the fore the need for an effective drainage system. In modern times, ensuring efficiency in water management is equally important for supporting the city's infrastructure and maintaining the health and safety of its residents.
In this episode, you will be able to:
"Let's embrace the path of progress and make the necessary investments in drainage to ensure a better future for generations to come." - Richard Campanella
Jan Bologna, a lifelong New Orleans resident, reflects on the city's growth and changes while sharing her love for the unique culture, discussing the challenges of raising a family, and revealing her favorite local experiences in this captivating episode of Beyond Bourbon Street.
In this episode host Mark Bologna interviews his mother, Jan Bologna, who shares her experiences and insights growing up in New Orleans and raising a family there.
Jan discusses various topics such as the changes in the education system after Hurricane Katrina, the positive developments in the city, the influence of her family's French and Italian cultures on her cooking, and her favorite New Orleans restaurants and cultural experiences.
Jan's personal perspective offers a unique insight into the growth and changes in New Orleans over the years. She expresses her love for the city and shares her favorite moments and traditions that make it special.
Her reflections on education, culture, and culinary influences paint a vivid picture of the city's evolution and provide valuable insights for listeners. If you are interested in hearing firsthand experiences from someone who has lived and thrived in New Orleans, this episode is a must-listen.
Jan's passion for the city and her deep connection to its history and culture shine through in her stories and anecdotes. From the challenges of running a restaurant to the joys of Mardi Gras, this conversation promises a fascinating glimpse into life in the vibrant city of New Orleans.
"Childhood was a lot less encumbered by all the outside things...we had to invent our own toys, our own games. Kids today sometimes miss out on that." - Jan Bologna
About Hurricane Katrina "We survived it because we learned in the midst of that...we had each other. That was an immense difference." - Jan Bologna
In this episode, you will be able to:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant rugby culture growing in New Orleans, and find out why it's quickly turning heads.
Unveil the links and disparities between rugby and its American counterpart, football, from strategy to spirit.
Dive into the historical ties between rugby and American football that have shaped their evolutions.
Discover how inclusivity and community are integral to the expanding prevalence of rugby in New Orleans.
Uncover New Orleans’ Classic Restaurants and Hidden Gems with Ian McNulty
Join food and culture writer Ian McNulty as he takes us on a journey through New Orleans’ classic restaurants and hidden gems.
From Antoine’s to Liuzza’s by the Track, discover the city’s most authentic culinary experiences. But be warned, McNulty’s recommendations may leave you with a difficult choice and a craving for more.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the complex and ongoing fight for women’s suffrage? Do you want to learn about the progress and setbacks that have shaped this movement and its impact on modern-day society?
Join me as I speak with guest expert and curator Libby Neidenbach, who will be sharing her knowledge and insights on this crucial topic. Together, we will explore the nuanced struggles and triumphs of women’s suffrage, and gain a greater appreciation for the ongoing fight for equality and justice in New Orleans.
By the end of our conversation, you will have a deeper understanding of the impact of this movement and its ongoing relevance today.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Check out the free exhibit Yet She is Advancing at the Historic New Orleans Collection from April 28 - November 5, 2023. You can also see the online exhibit here: Yet She Is Advancing: New Orleans Women and the Right to Vote, 1878-1970 | The Historic New Orleans Collection.
Exploring Hidden New Orleans
Are you an urban exploration enthusiast? Do you want to uncover lesser-known New Orleans treasures while also preserving their historical significance through respectful exploration?
Meet Nathan Norsworthy and Kris Norsworthy, a fearless pair of urban explorers who love to uncover the mysteries of New Orleans’ forgotten spaces.
With Nathan’s passion for unearthing the stories behind these hidden spots, and Kris’ talent for photography, they’ve managed to document some of the city’s most fascinating and lesser-known locations. From abandoned hospitals to eerie cemeteries, these two have seen it all, and they’re here to share their adventures with us.
Urban Exploration
Urban exploration, also known as urbex, involves visiting and investigating abandoned structures and locations. Enthusiasts of this practice value the unique insights and emotional connections that come from discovering the untold stories of these places. Abandoned sites can serve as powerful reminders of the past, provide glimpses into history, and offer a sense of adventure and mystery.
I think exploring abandoned places is like going to a museum, just to see it, to walk around, to photograph it. It’s really just for fun. - Nathan Norsworthy
Resources
Instagram:
Homes of New Orleans and Abandoned New Orleans
Social media platforms enable urban explorers to share their findings and connect with like-minded individuals. Nathan Norsworthy showcases his photography of New Orleans’ architecture and homes on his Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok accounts called Homes of New Orleans.
Kris Norsworthy uses his Instagram account, Abandoned New Orleans, to document his explorations of the city’s abandoned sites.
Through their social media presence, Nathan and Kris have reached a broader audience and fostered communities that appreciate the history and beauty of both active and abandoned locations in New Orleans.
Here’s some other accounts worth following:
Are you ready to explore the vibrant streets of New Orleans by bike, but worried about your safety? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Join Allene La Spina and Chris Parker as they reveal the truth (good and bad) about exploring New Orleans by bike and staying safe in a city where biking is a way of life for many.
Allene and Chris have dedicated themselves to advocating for safe and accessible biking for all. But as they reveal, progress is slow and challenges persist, leaving them with a question: how can we make the streets safer for everyone?
In this episode, you will be able to:
Resources
Bike Easy.org - your resource for classes, safety information, group rides, and more.
Bike Uneasy - a Facebook group whose mission is to take a stand against the dangers faced by vulnerable road users, like people who walk and people who ride.
What if I told you there was a way to fall in love with New Orleans without breaking the bank?
From the sounds of local music in Lafayette Square to the delicious cannolis at Angelo Brocato’s, I’ll reveal the unexpected and affordable ways to experience the magic of the city - so get ready for an adventure!
In this episode of my podcast, I dive into the fantastic world of budget-friendly activities in New Orleans.
As a local, I’ve discovered many hidden treasures and affordable experiences that can make a trip to this charming city enjoyable and wallet-friendly.
I share my top picks for things to do that are either free or nearly free, including delicious food options like Central Grocery muffulettas, Roman candy, and snowballs from various locations.
I also highlight various picturesque spots for exercise and exploration, such as City Park, Bayou St. John, and the Couturie Forest. The affordability and accessibility of many of these activities make it easy for visitors to explore and enjoy the city without breaking the bank.
So, if you’re a budget-conscious traveler seeking local experiences, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen to today’s episode and walk away with dozens of things to eat, see, do, and explore. I do have one confession… well, two actually.
First, we cover far more than 52 things. It is probably more like 152 if you added up every festival and every variation, but who has time for that?
Second, not everything we discuss is free. I set a threshold of $6.
Why $6, you ask? Listen to the episode and find out!