Don’t Wait until You Retire to Start Living

Founder & Podcast Host

James Lewis, the Founder of Retire Southern and host of the Southern Character podcast, has spent his life fully immersed in the charm and culture of the South. Having grown up in Louisiana and now living in Georgia, James has made it his mission to help others discover authentic experiences, build meaningful connections, and find purpose in their own retirement journeys. After transitioning from a successful career in engineering and construction to wealth management, James found his passion in helping families define fulfillment in the next chapters of life.

Retire Southern was born from this desire—to showcase the richness of Southern life while encouraging people to live intentionally. For Retire Southern, James curates travel and lifestyle content designed to inspire purposeful living. Through his Southern Character podcast, James brings to life the stories of remarkable individuals who embody the values of grit and grace. Whether guiding listeners to follow their inner compass or helping them embrace the joys of retirement, James is a dynamic storyteller committed to helping his community live fully and with purpose in the Authentic South.

Partner, Chief of Operations, & Contributor

As Partner, Chief of Operations, and Contributor at Retire Southern, Mallory Boggs brings over a decade of experience in brand building and team leadership, along with a lifetime spent exploring and appreciating the South. Mallory began her career at Jamestown Properties, where she developed a passion for crafting memorable brands and experiences that bring people together. At Retire Southern, Mallory works closely with the team to turn ideas into reality, helping quarterback new projects and ensuring that every concept reflects the core values of intentional and purposeful living.

Personally, Mallory is passionate about discovering new travel destinations and revisiting familiar Southern gems. As a Level 6 Local Google Guide, she’s often found capturing her experiences at restaurants, bars, and hiking trails, making sure “the camera eats first.” Through her work at Retire Southern, Mallory is dedicated to helping others embrace the richness of Southern living with intention and purpose.

Partner & Contributor

Andrea Holland Rizk is a contributing writer at Retire Southern, where she utilizes her extensive experience in public relations to shape the platforms' brand and outreach strategies. With over two decades in the field, starting her career on Nashville's Music Row, Rizk has honed her skills in creating impactful publicity campaigns. She is also the Founder & CEO of Rizk Public Relations and produces podcasts. A Nashville native living in Brentwood, Tennessee with her family, she enjoys her role as a 'boy mom' and maintains a deep appreciation for music.

Sound Producer & Editor

Jerry Payne, Producer and Editor for the Southern Character podcast, is a lifelong Georgia resident. Born and raised in Marietta, Jerry has almost two decades of experience in radio and podcasting. He graduated from Kennesaw State University where he studied communications with a concentration in media studies. Jerry has worked at just about every radio station in Atlanta doing almost every job in the building. When Jerry isn’t talking into microphones or chopping up audio, he enjoys all things outdoors, competing in endurance events, volunteering at animal rescue shelters, and consuming as much good food and live music as he can get in and around Woodstock, Georgia.

Content Booker & Producer

Lauren Noble is our Booker and Producer for the Southern Character podcast, and loves all things radio and podcasting. Lauren grew up in Norcross, GA listening to Star94 and 99X and graduated from Clemson University, where she hosted a weekly radio show on 88.1 WSBF-FM Clemson. She brings three years of podcast expertise in research, writing, marketing, and booking. She spends her free time at concerts, hanging with her tuxedo cat Meena, or reading in her hammock with a big ol’ cup of sweet tea. 

Copy Editor

Born and raised in Warner Robins, Georgia, Barbara Pinyan has always been connected to the South. A lifelong Georgia resident, she currently calls Acworth home, where she lives with her husband, Scott, and their three children. An avid traveler, Barbara loves nothing more than cruising the Caribbean or immersing herself in the local culture of Mexico. Her passion for exploring authentic places ties perfectly to the Retire Southern mission—celebrating purposeful living and meaningful experiences.

With a background in marketing and over a decade of experience as a client coordinator, Barbara’s sharp attention to detail ensures that every word and message reflects the heart of Retire Southern. When she’s not editing or planning her next adventure, you’ll find her crafting delicious Southern meals for her family and dreaming up new travel experiences.

Barbara brings a keen eye and a love for storytelling, ensuring that the essence of the Authentic South shines through in everything we do at Retire Southern.