Bigger Pie Forum Podcast

What happens when a 45-year-old law blocks innovation in health care? In this reunion episode of the Bigger Pie Forum podcast, host sits down again with physical therapist Butch Slaughter and attorney Aaron Rice to revisit a legal battle years in the making. During the height of COVID, Butch sought to open a home health agency to serve patients in their homes—only to discover that a decades-old certificate of need law and an overlooked moratorium made it virtually impossible. What followed was a constitutional challenge that led to a federal court ruling striking down Mississippi's 45-year moratorium on new home health agencies Aaron explains the origins of certificate of need laws, the economic and competitive consequences of limiting providers, and what this ruling could mean for Mississippi—and potentially the nation. From courtroom strategy to health care innovation, this episode explores the intersection of entrepreneurship, public policy, and patient access. The case now heads to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, with implications that could reshape how states regulate health care markets across the country.

Downtown Jackson is at a tipping point. Liz Brister, head of Downtown Jackson Partners, and her husband Bill—a retired finance professor—sit down with Wyatt Emmerich to talk population decline, property redevelopment, safety perceptions, and why one vibrant street could change everything. Hear how private developers, state leaders, and grassroots efforts are aligning for the first time in years—and what still needs to happen to make this comeback real.

In 2019, Deepa's eyebrow threading business was shut down by Mississippi's cosmetology board for not having a license to practice a skill they didn't even teach. Six years later, she's thriving with multiple locations—and a landmark legal victory behind her. Hear the full story of how Deepa, alongside Aaron Rice, took on state regulations, rewrote the law, and is now empowering other women as business owners across the South.

Zach Servis isn't your typical political candidate. In this Bigger Pie Forum conversation, he unpacks his journey from Fort Worth to Jackson, blending music, ministry, and entrepreneurship with a deep sense of public duty. With four children, a booming sourdough business at home, and a nonprofit in motion, Zach's vision for Jackson centers on systems reform, civic education, and faith-based accountability. Whether you agree or not, you'll be challenged to think differently.

Dr. Thomas Dobbs, former Mississippi State Health Officer and current Dean at the John D. Bower School of Population Health, shares candid insights from the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. From the early fears of system collapse to evolving views on masks, vaccines, and misinformation, Dr. Dobbs reflects on what Mississippi got right—and what still needs work. The conversation spans everything from rising syphilis cases and tuberculosis to food deserts, obesity, autism research, and the social determinants of health. It's an honest and enlightening look at the systemic challenges and hopeful possibilities facing public health in the South.

Rebecca Staples and Hope Newsome Staples continues they conversation as they explore the vibrant community of Laurel, Mississippi. In this episode, they delve into the town's rich cultural events, such as the renowned Lauren Rogers Museum Gala and Pancake Day, and discuss the town's unique architectural heritage. They celebrate the local arts scene, highlighting notable artists like Mark Landis and Adam Trest, and share personal anecdotes about the impact of HGTV's "Hometown" on the community. This episode encapsulates Laurel's spirit of independence, innovation, and community pride, inviting listeners to discover the charm of this remarkable town.

Join Rebecca Staples and Hope Newsome Staples, guest podcasters for Bigger Pie Forum, as they continue they conversation and delve into the rich tapestry of Laurel, Mississippi's history of innovation and community spirit. Broadcasting from the heart of the Pine Belt, they explore the town's notable contributions to industry, from the revolutionary Lindsay wagon to the globally recognized Masonite board. Discover the stories behind major employers like Howard Industries and Sanderson Farms, and their impact on the local and national economy. This episode also highlights the cultural gem of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, Mississippi's first art museum, celebrating its century-long commitment to accessibility, education, and community engagement. Tune in to learn about Laurel's blend of historical significance, entrepreneurial spirit, and vibrant cultural life.

Join Rebecca Staples and Hope Newsome Staples, guest podcasters for Bigger Pie Forum, as they explore the rich heritage of Laurel, Mississippi. Broadcasting from the heart of the Pine Belt, they delve into the town's unique history, from its timber industry roots to its proud spirit of independence symbolized by the Free State of Jones. In this episode, learn about the fascinating stories behind the town's landmarks, such as the YWCO, and celebrate local legends like Olympic medalist Ralph Boston and renowned soprano Leontyne Price. This engaging conversation highlights the community's resilient spirit and deep-rooted pride in its past and present.

Embark on a culinary journey with us as we continue our conversation with Chaz Lindsay, the brilliant mind behind Pulito Osteria, Jackson's latest gastronomic sensation. 🍽️ From his humble beginnings at Pizza Shack to a revolutionary stint at the Culinary Institute of America, Chaz shares the story behind his passion, education, and relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. This isn't just a tale about food; it's a narrative of adaptation, innovation, and the unbreakable bonds formed between a chef, his creations, and the community. Join us to hear how Chaz's personal life, entwined with his spouse's medical career, influenced his decision to lay down roots in Belle Haven, solidifying his commitment to the culinary arts. Don't miss out on this captivating narrative! Tune in to discover the fascinating journey of a chef dedicated to crafting more than just meals – a true culinary experience.

Join us as we sat down with the remarkably talented Chaz Lindsay, the mastermind behind Pulito Osteria, Jackson's new culinary sensation. Listen in as Chaz recounts his extraordinary path from his teenage years at Pizza Shack to his revolutionary time at the Culinary Institute of America. Our conversation takes you behind the scenes of his rigorous training and scientific approach to cooking, illuminating the pivotal moments and elite kitchens, like Eleven Madison Park, that shaped his culinary philosophy. Chaz's story is not just about food; it's a tale of passion, education, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. This episode traces his professional pivot during COVID-19, from a progressive restaurant to a brewery where connections and friendships helped to seed the beginnings of Palito.. This is more than a chef's story; it's a narrative of adaptation, innovation, and the unbreakable bonds formed between a chef, his food, and the community he serves. Join us to hear how Chaz's personal life, intertwined with his spouse's medical career, influenced his decision to establish roots in Belle Haven and further his commitment to the culinary arts.

As we continue our conversation with the mastermind behind Applos Restaurant, Alex Eaton , we explore the evolution of the dining experience to include fast fine dining and the addition of a family-friendly courtyard. This shift not only accommodates the growing demand for to-go orders but also caters to a younger audience, proving that innovation and adaptability are the true spices of life in the culinary industry. Tune in to hear how Alex and his team have redefined dining in the post-pandemic world, ensuring that the restaurant continues to be a place where families and food lovers alike can find both comfort and excitement on their plates.

Join us as we sit down with the culinary maestro Alex Eaton, mastermind behind Aplos Restaurant, and uncover his gastronomic odyssey. Alex walks us through a tapestry of flavors from his Lebanese-Louisiana heritage, recalling his early days cooking over an open fire with the Boy Scouts and his journey through college that ultimately led him to culinary school. His tales of mentorship in New Orleans and the challenges faced while climbing the ranks in the restaurant world paint a vivid picture of a Mississippi native's path to creating a unique culinary niche. Listen in as Alex's story unfolds, revealing how a blend of education, real-world experience, and a touch of fate brought him back to his roots to establish his culinary presence.

We continue to unlock the secrets of how our local brewery, the Fertile Ground Brewery, is transforming the community and economy, one pint at a time. Join us as we reveal the resilient spirit of craft breweries, which have become the bedrock of local camaraderie by allowing food from surrounding eateries and creating a hub for social gatherings. Discover how beer serves as a universal language, just like music, bringing diverse groups together to cheer on their favorite teams in a family-friendly space. We'll also celebrate the tenacity of the industry during trying times, highlighting ingenious adaptation strategies that kept the taps flowing amid the pandemic and the importance of innovation in the face of adversity. This episode also honors the legacy of San Francisco's cherished Anchor brewery, whose employees rallied to preserve its heritage when times got tough. We'll reflect on the post-pandemic brewing landscape, considering the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, from embracing lower ABV and lager-style preferences to strategic acquisitions like Mississippi's Colson's brand. Listen in as we dissect the nuances of remaining relevant in a market where creativity and capital go hand in hand, and where community efforts can save the day.

Listen in as we take you on a journey through the world of craft breweries in Mississippi with our esteemed guests Matt Jeffries, Connor Reeves, and Matthew McLaughlin, the co-founders of Fertile Ground Brewery. We discuss the evolution of the industry, touching on the trials and tribulations faced by early pioneers like Lucky Town Brewery, and how changes in regulations have now paved the way for craft breweries to thrive. With a special focus on Fertile Ground Brewery, we explore their unique business model, how they've incorporated multiple revenue streams, and their future plans for expansion. This episode is also a celebration of community revitalization through development. We explore the impact of the Belle Even Town Center on the local community, how its strategic location and diverse offerings are attracting visitors from the suburbs, and contributing to the revitalization of the city. Whether you're an aspiring brewer, a beer enthusiast, or someone interested in urban development and community upliftment, this episode is packed with insights and stories you won't want to miss.

The final cut to the conversation with Mark Mills of the Manhattan Institute. We continue to discuss energy: how it is affected by political decisions, and how these decisions affects our economy. You would not want to miss this episode!

BPF continues its conversation with Mark Mills of the Manhattan Institute as he debunks myths and shines a light on the future. From the realities of electric vehicles to the impact of green energy on the mining industry, we cover it all.

We delve deep into the complex world of energy with expert Mark Mills of the Manhattan Institute as he debunks myths and shines a light on the future. From the realities of electric vehicles to the impact of green energy on the mining industry, we cover it all. We even discuss the energy costs of AI and computing, comparing it to scenarios from two decades ago. This conversation is a must-listen. Don't miss this enlightening journey through the world of energy!

BPF continues its conversation with Hunter Evans of Elvie's Restaurant. Hunter shares his journey with us to becoming a chef and how Elvie's came to fruition.

BPF visits with Hunter Evans of Elvie's, one of Jackson's most popular restaurants and a part of the Belhaven Town Center Development. Hunter shares his journey with us to becoming a chef and how Elvie's came to fruition.

In the second installment of the Belhaven Town Center Development Series, BPF continues the conversation with successful entrepreneur developers of the Belhaven Town Center, David Turner and Ruffin Lowry — the area that houses extremely popular businesses like Pulito Osteria, Elvie's and Fertile Ground Beer Co. Listen in to the unfolding of the Belhaven Town Center that has energized both the Belhaven neighborhood and business area.

BPF sits down with successful entrepreneur developers of the Belhaven Town Center, David Turner and Ruffin Lowry — the area that houses extremely popular businesses like Pulito Osteria, Elvie's and Fertile Ground Beer Co. Listen in to the unfolding of the Belhaven Town Center that has energized both the Belhaven neighborhood and business area.

In this first part of our series on economic growth in the Golden Triangle, we focus on Plum Creek Environmental. In this episode, James Wamble III shares about their exclusive growth partnership with other Mississippi companies and organizations and what it's like to run an Inc 5000 company in rural Mississippi. You won't want to miss this episode!

Listen in as Kristen discusses knowing who your customers are and getting back to the basics of customer service. With the growth of internet shopping, being intentional with your consumers' experience is paramount to beat out the competition.

BPF has an insightful conversation with Mississippi's own, Kristen Ley, founder and owner of Thimblepress - a nationally recognized, creative and innovative line of greeting cards and gifts that spring from her faith-based mission. Listen in to Kristen'a journey with her achievements and challenges that provide some insight for those desiring to pursue their own start up.

BPF wraps up our fascinating time with Mr. Meredith with excerpts from his powerful 1961 letter to the Kennedy Administration regarding his rights as an American citizen.

BPF continues the conversation with James Meredith to discuss the time surrounding his entrance to the University of Mississippi and his time in the Air Force.

BPF sits down with James Meredith to hear about his fascinating life story. Listen as we dive into Meredith's formative years growing up in North MS.

In our final episode with Jack and Elizabeth Coleman, we learn their plans for economic development in Rosedale, Mississippi.

In our most recent episode, Jack and Elizabeth discuss battery technology and storage capacity in electric vehicles and giving the American people both sides of the story.

BPF continues the conversation on what Mississippi can do to prevent an energy and electricity crisis from coming here.

BPF had the fortunate opportunity to discuss timely topics with a few of Mississippi's top experts in the energy and electricity industry at the regulatory & policy making levels. Listen in as they dive into the energy & electricity crisis in the U.K. and Europe that's beginning to happen in parts of the U.S. and what Mississippi can do to prevent it from coming here.

BPF continues the conversation with Secretary Michael Watson on cutting regulations to help make Mississippi more business friendly and more Mississippians realize their dreams.

BPF visits with Secretary Watson to find out more on the "Tackle the Tape" initiative and the plan within it titled "29 x 29." The aim is to review every regulation for all 29 occupational licensing boards and commissions by the year 2029.

BPF guest podcasters had the opportunity to meet and talk with gallerist and curator Stacy Conde of Conde Contemporary. Listen in as she tells how she makes a pivot from Miami to Mississippi and illuminates Natchez the way only she can.

BPF had the opportunity to sit down with Mrs. King and hear how she's an agent for change in her community through her Natchez Heritage School of Cooking. She's also gearing up for the 3rd annual Soul Food Fusion Festival, (June 17 - 19) where the community celebrates together at a block-long white linen dining table eating the cuisine of the local chefs.

Tate Taylor discusses the needs of Natchez and how he's investing in the community to help build a city that implores newcomers to stay. Tate addresses Mississippi's tarnished past and how we can shake the sensationalism and stereotypes.

BPF sits down with successful filmmaker and writer Tate Taylor. We had the opportunity to hear his fascinating journey back to the Church Hill community outside of Natchez, Mississippi where he's shaking things up.

BPF continues the conversation with Mayor Dan Gibson on his vison and goals for the decade ahead and the continued renaissance of Natchez, Mississippi

BPF travels to the jewel of the Mississippi River to meet Mayor Dan Gibson at the National Historic Landmark of Dunleith Historic Inn and discuss how Natchez is finding itself in an upside surprise renaissance on the heels of a pandemic — thanks to its diversity, hospitality and culture.

Listen in as BPF discusses the history and policies regarding energy and electricity with Douglas Carswell of the Mississippi Center for Public Policy.

BPF has a fascinating conversation with Douglas Carswell of the Mississippi Center for Public Policy on the electricity crisis in the U.K. and why it matters to Mississippi's citizens and policy makers.

Guest podcasters Ann Seale and Mona Reddy talk with Interim Executive Director of the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi at the Waller Craft Center to talk about the artisans renderings this Christmas season.

BPF continues the conversation with Blake Dubinski of GenTeal Apparel on the challenges of growing a new business in a highly competitive marketplace.

Blake Dubinski and Dr. Brice Noonan, Ole Miss Professors, are the co-founders of GenTeal Apparel — a men's fine apparel line that is currently distributed to 140 retailers across the U.S. Listen in to their journey to becoming entrepreneurs in their spare time.

Restaurateur Emily Blount - owner of St. Leo Italian restaurant, and retail store owner Anne-Marie Gordon of CICADA - a high fashion women's apparel fixture in Oxford tell us how their businesses survived the pandemic being in a small college town.

BPF sits down with restaurateur Emily Blount - owner of St. Leo Italian restaurant, and with retail store owner Ann Marie Gordon of CICADA - a high fashion women's apparel fixture in Oxford. Listen to their entrepreneurial journeys resulting to the good for Oxford, Mississippi.

How Blue Delta Jeans co-founder Josh West has carved out a niche in high-end apparel to make the "The best jean I've ever put on." A good product and great story.

BPF visits with Josh West of Blue Delta Jeans to hear the story behind the highly coveted bespoke jeans and why he thinks Mississippi is a hidden gem for entrepreneurs.

BPF continues the conversation with Jon and Allen on investing in the people of Oxford and building a thriving community that attracts others - paying large dividends toward economic development.