• Like Mardi Gras, Love Jazz Fest: A Local’s Perspective

    Experience

  • An Inside Look at Little Secret Greenville

    Connect

  • Fly Fishing North Georgia 101 with Hunter Morris

    Experience

  • Celebrating a Century of Harmony: The Enduring Legacy of the Grand Ole Opry

    Connect

  • Team Chaos: Pet Friendly Beach Planning, Dog Wizardry, and Turning 50

    Experience

  • How John Lavin Brought New Life to the Blue Ridge Inn

    Connect

Listen up.

Welcome to Southern Character, a podcast where we share true-life stories of grit and grace from authentic southerners who follow their compass. Listen as host James Lewis delves into the heart of the South, sharing inspiring journeys of remarkable individuals rooted in Southern culture, food, and music. Each story is seasoned with the essence of the guest’s home state. 

These conversations reveal a connected spirit and invite you to relax, reflect, and connect with Southern roots - whether you're from the South or simply Southern at heart.

Connect with Southern Characters

Dive into the stories and voices that define Southern Character, exploring diverse personalities and their unique experiences across the region.

Southern Character
Blair Crimmins: The March of the Hookers
Blair Crimmins: The March of the Hookers

Discover how Blair Crimmins defied the mainstream music industry to revive the timeless sounds of Dixieland jazz, blending vintage energy with modern grit in a way only he can.

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An Inside Look at Little Secret Greenville
An Inside Look at Little Secret Greenville

Chef Conner Hinderks shares his journey from Kansas City to New Orleans to Greenville, SC, where his pop-up residency kitchen, Little Secret, is redefining accessible, high-quality dining through community-driven partnerships and bold, inventive flavors.

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Team Chaos: Pet Friendly Beach Planning, Dog Wizardry, and Turning 50
Team Chaos: Pet Friendly Beach Planning, Dog Wizardry, and Turning 50

Team Chaos navigates the challenges of family travel, pet training, and milestone celebrations, proving that with careful planning and a sense of humor, even the most chaotic adventures can be unforgettable.

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How John Lavin Brought New Life to the Blue Ridge Inn
How John Lavin Brought New Life to the Blue Ridge Inn

John Lavin’s journey from acting to innkeeping led him to the heart of Blue Ridge, GA, where he restored the historic Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast. Discover how he blends history, hospitality, and local charm to create a one-of-a-kind guest experience in the Appalachian Mountains

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Travel

Explore the Authentic South through enriching journeys and hidden gems that inspire a life well-lived.

Travel
Iconic Eats on 30A: My Go-To Restaurants After a Lifetime of Visits
Iconic Eats on 30A: My Go-To Restaurants After a Lifetime of Visits

After a lifetime of visits to Florida’s scenic 30A, I’ve discovered a handful of restaurants that continue to capture the heart and flavor of this beloved coastal stretch. From nostalgic childhood staples to timeless local favorites, these are the spots I return to year after year.

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Celebrating a Century of Harmony: The Enduring Legacy of the Grand Ole Opry
Celebrating a Century of Harmony: The Enduring Legacy of the Grand Ole Opry

Celebrate 100 years of the Grand Ole Opry in 2025. Explore its history, iconic performances, and upcoming centennial celebrations. Book a tour and step into the famous Opry circle.

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Greyfield Inn: A Step Back in Time on Cumberland Island
Greyfield Inn: A Step Back in Time on Cumberland Island

Step back in time and unplug at Greyfield Inn, a hidden retreat on Cumberland Island where feral horses roam, cocktail hour is a nightly tradition, and every meal is a farm-to-table masterpiece.

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Lifestyle

Discover cultural Southern events and experiences through our lifestyle guides, designed to help you follow your compass and live with purpose in the heart of the Authentic South.

Lifestyle
The Creole Catch & Cook: Lafitte to NOLA
The Creole Catch & Cook: Lafitte to NOLA

Experience the ultimate Louisiana catch and cook adventure—from reeling in Redfish in Lafitte to savoring your fresh catch prepared by top chefs in New Orleans.

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Fly Fishing North Georgia 101 with Hunter Morris
Fly Fishing North Georgia 101 with Hunter Morris

Have you always wanted to try fly fishing but don’t have the gear or the know-how? We have four words for you: Fly Fishing North Georgia. You’re welcome.

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The Retire Southern Team’s Top Picks of 2024
The Retire Southern Team’s Top Picks of 2024

Our team shares their favorite articles of the year! Join us as we reflect on 2024’s best Southern stories.

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