The University of New Orleans is making headlines after officially moving from the University of Louisiana System back to the LSU System. We sit down to unpack what this shift really means for the university, its students, and the city it serves. Charles breaks down UNO’s complex history, from its early days as LSU New Orleans to years of post-Katrina enrollment struggles and ongoing budget challenges.

We explore whether a rebrand back to “LSU New Orleans” could spark new growth or if deeper issues like outreach, funding, and student engagement need to be addressed first. Together, we reflect on what this transition says about Louisiana’s higher education landscape and why UNO’s role in building New Orleans’ middle class deserves renewed attention and support.

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The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is facing a $25 million budget deficit and we’re unpacking what’s really going on behind the numbers. Etosha, a proud UL alum, and Charles break down how a university with record freshman enrollment still ended up in financial trouble. From leadership changes and student retention issues to statewide and national trends in higher education, we explore what this means for Louisiana students and the future of affordable college access.

We also look at the bigger picture: how declining enrollment, rising costs, and student debt are reshaping higher education across the country. As UL Lafayette searches for a new president, we ask what it will take to keep Louisiana’s universities strong and sustainable for the next generation.

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Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s time in office is coming to an end, and we’re breaking down her final 90 days as New Orleans prepares for new leadership. From federal indictments and travel controversies to unfinished infrastructure and budget deadlines, we take a hard look at what the mayor should stop doing—and what she still has time to make right before leaving office.

We also reflect on how her legacy may ultimately be remembered: a leader who guided the city through COVID but later became defined by controversy. Etosha and Charles discuss the shift in City Hall dynamics, how the City Council’s power evolved during her tenure, and what lessons the next administration can take as New Orleans turns the page.

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Helena Moreno, Royce Duplessis, and Oliver Thomas are the frontrunners in New Orleans’ upcoming mayoral election—and we’re breaking down what’s at stake. With less than ten days to go, we dive into the numbers, the race dynamics, and what the next mayor’s first 100 days should look like for our city.

We also share our top priorities for any incoming administration, from fixing broken infrastructure and improving hurricane preparedness to addressing homelessness, overhauling City Hall, and investing in New Orleans East. Plus, we discuss how the next mayor can rebuild the city’s relationship with the state and ensure Orleans Parish gets its fair share. Tune in, get informed, and don’t forget to vote on October 11.

Correction: Oliver Thomas is currently holding a seat on the New Orleans City Council (https://council.nola.gov/councilmembers/oliver-thomas/)

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Today, Charles shares his work as a PhD in Urban Studies who conducted extensive research on the history and development of New Orleans East. We explore the East's rise as a suburban hub, its decline due to economic and social factors, and the ongoing challenges it faces. Charles explains how his dissertation aims to dispel misconceptions and create an accurate narrative about the area’s potential for revitalization.

We dive into the historical shifts, including the East's transformation into a predominantly Black middle-class community, the unfulfilled promises of revitalization, and its significance as a gateway to the city. Together, we discuss actionable steps needed to change the narrative and create meaningful investment in this vital part of New Orleans.

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Louisiana’s rich French heritage is taking center stage. We're diving into the historical and cultural significance of French in our state, tracing its journey from colonial times to modern preservation efforts. We explore pivotal moments like the 1921 ban on French education, its 1974 repeal, and how programs like French immersion and cultural initiatives are keeping the language alive.

Join us as we discuss the challenges and opportunities of preserving Louisiana French, from economic drivers to cultural identity. With insights into the work of organizations like CODOFIL and events like Festival International de Louisiane, we examine how we can all play a role in celebrating and sustaining this vital part of what makes Louisiana unique.

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Today, we dive into the housing and insurance crises affecting Louisiana. As homeowners and renters, we explore the root causes of these challenges, including skyrocketing housing costs, gentrification, and the devastating impacts of climate-related disasters. We discuss how these issues are shaping urban and rural communities alike, with personal insights and data to highlight the growing urgency of the situation.

We also examine potential solutions, such as the roof fortification program, legislative efforts to stabilize the insurance market, and the need for updated FEMA mapping. This conversation underscores the critical need for bipartisan action to address these statewide crises and offers a glimpse of hope for meaningful change.

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Shreveport is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we’re diving into what it means for Louisiana. From 50 Cent’s massive investment in G-Unit Studios, making it the second-largest Black-owned production studio in the U.S., to a $75 million state-of-the-art government building, Shreveport is positioning itself as a hub for growth and opportunity. We explore how these developments, alongside urban revitalization efforts and new housing projects, are reshaping the city’s downtown and creating jobs.

We also discuss Shreveport’s unique position as the third-largest city in Louisiana, its proximity to Texas, and its cultural and economic significance and how its success can impact the entire state. Whether it’s the future of its film industry, the potential for population growth, or the city’s vibrant casino scene, there’s a lot to be excited about in northwest Louisiana. Let’s keep our eyes on Shreveport’s rise!

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