Elise Firth is a multi-faceted young woman/rockstar. James, Holley, and Elise discuss music, songwriting, the loss of loved ones, and the memory of Niko Everette.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

James and Holley of Rough Draft Hattiesburg welcome local comedian Ben Compton to the show! Ben Compton is a rising star in the comedy world. Native to Picayune, MS, Compton now calls Hattiesburg his true home and draws his hilarious comedic narrative from everyday life. Join us for a humorous and informative conversation about Ben's struggles and …

James and Holley have officially done 50 episodes of Rough Draft Hattiesburg. To celebrate, Brandiilyne Magnum-Dear, owner of Red Jasper, preacher, and oracle reader, performs a reading for the city of Hattiesburg. Music for the episode provided by Kelsey Wishik.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

James and Holley are joined by best-selling author David McRaney; creator of "You Are Not So Smart," "You Are Now Less Dumb," and "How Minds Change." McRaney also operates the "You Are Not So Smart" podcast. In his work, McRaney explains various psychological phenomena and seeks to answer difficult psychological questions like "why we are the way w…

Jess Carter is an impressive young woman with a thriving restaurant and hotel business in our neighboring city of Petal. Road House Restaurant and Hotel boast incredible culinary dishes and updated interiors done by Jess herself. Jess is also an aspiring actress, writer, director and previous Miss Mississippi Teen USA. Catch the season 5 season pre…

In this yearly recap, Mayor Toby Barker gives us an update on all things Hattiesburg as well as educates us on how to become a registered voter in Mississippi. Don't miss this crucial episode. Music for the episode provided by Royal Horses with original songs "Ruby Do" and "Bottom of the Charts."By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

James and Holley sit down with Hattiesburg's Historical Preservation Planner, Russell Archer. In this informative episode, Archer tells us what constitutes a historical building or attribute and how to present new builds and renovations within a historical community to the committee. We are excited to present this episode all about the man behind t…

Rough Draft Hattiesburg is proud to present this episode with the one and only Tony Lymon. James and Holley discuss music, art, life, design, and more with Tony, who is a multi-talented drummer, instructor, artist, coffee roaster... Trust us, he does it all! This long awaited episode is a true example of why we do this show. Tony is an inspiration …

In this episode James and Holley sit down with entrepreneur Colby Farris and mycologist Lauren Romine of Slow Poke Farms. Slow Poke is a new business venture in Hattiesburg that provides culinary mushrooms for local businesses and restaurants. So much to learn from this dynamic duo. Look out for Slow Poke mushrooms on menus all around the Hattiesbu…

Do not miss this hilarious and inspiring episode featuring singer songwriter Drew Young. Young is a Hattiesburg transplant with huge dreams for the music world. Don't miss his songs "Christmas Time in Mississippi" and "Christmas Morning," which will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit. Be sure to check out his Christmas album on all streamin…

Andrea Kostyal is a Hungarian born artist living in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Her public art can be seen around the city of Hattiesburg in the form of two large murals and three utility boxes. She is also the curator of Singing River Arts Studio and is a part of many arts groups and programs throughout the area. Her art can be described as ethereal…

In this episode of Rough Draft Hattiesburg, James and Holley sit down with Olivia Miley of Olivia Miley Events. Weddings are... complicated. But Olivia makes it look easy! Music for the episode provided by Holley Rumbarger with original songs "Make it Quick" and "Facing the Music."By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

James and Holley sit down with chef and entrepreneur Jeremy Knoffke of Southern Prohibition to talk about his experience in the culinary industry. Knoffke expounds upon what it takes to be a head chef and design culinary experiences for the public as well as tells all about his newest restaurant endeavor, Big Trouble, opening soon in downtown Hatti…

Holley and James sit down with mover and shaker, Chad Edmondson as he revitalizes the 4th Street corridor as a developer. Chad has recently brought numerous new businesses to the city of Hattiesburg and doesn't plan to stop there! Listen in to see some of what's in store for the Hub City! Music for the episode provided by local crooner Stephen Wade…

She's more than just a "funny girl." She's downright hilarious and brilliant! James and Holley kick of season 4 of Rough Draft Hattiesburg with comedian and writer, Mary Ryan Brown; a hattiesburg native and USM grad. Music for the episode provided by Naomi Taylor of Jackson, Mississippi with original songs, "Take Care" and "Under Pressure."…

On this very special Back to School episode of Rough Draft Hattiesburg, we journey to the gallery of Professor Jim Meade of the University of Southern Mississippi. With colleague Janet Gorzegno. We discuss Meade's 50+ years of drawing at USM, his ongoing art exhibit in Hurst Hall, and more. Music for the episode provided by Thomas jackson (previous…

James and Holley travel to New Orleans, Louisiana for an unforgettable episode with Hattiesburg born Patrick Weathers. Patrick is a musician, actor, and comedian who was cast on Saturday Night Live from 1980-1981. Included in the episode are Patrick's original songs, "The Queen of Tupelo" and "Old Friends, Old Times." Weathers is now an art curator…

James and Holley meet with prior Hattiesburger, R.S. Field (AKA Bobby Field), in his new home of Nashville, Tennessee to discuss his extensive and highly impressive collective work as a musician and producer. Field has played with the likes of Webb Wilder and Omar & The Howlers, as well as countless others. He has produced many well-known artists s…

Holley and James travel to New Orleans to meet with Bryan Evans, a Hattiesburg native who since has moved to New Orleans. As the guitarist for Bakey's Brew, Bryan has lots of plans for the upcoming fall season. Join the three of us, plus Bryan's inquisitive pup Ripley, as we discuss the music scene in the city of New Orleans, LA. Featured in the ep…

Holley and James travel to Nashville yet again to sit down with Mississippi native singer songwriter, Afton Wolfe! This episode features songs "Cry" by Afton Wolfe and "Ooh La La" by Afton Wolfe and Cary Hudson.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

Rough Draft presents yet another "On the Road" episode with Chelsea Lovitt, a Mississippi native songwriter living in Nashville, Tennessee implementing honky tonk, chicken pickin', surf psychedelia, rock'n'roll and occasional bluegrass. With original music "Truckstop Waitress," "Anybody Else," and "If I Had a Dollar." Chelsea is a story teller and …

Holley and James take Rough Draft on the road to Nashville where they sit down with Hattiesburg native turned Nashville guitarist, composer, session player, and teacher Adam McPhail of Dynamo and Uncle Bronco (Mentioned in episode as Heavy Chevy). Songs for the episode include "Thankful" by Dynamo, "Thruple Shuffle" and "Upstairs" by Uncle Bronco (…

Restauranteur Katie Dixon is the owner/operator of Birdhouse Cafe in Hattiesburg and a Food Network star! Listen in as we discuss the healthy living concept behind her restaurants as well as her dreams and aspirations for the future. Music provided by Chaislyn with original songs "Dreams I Forgot About" and "Already Had It."…

James and Holley sit down with owner/operator of Power Yoga and Movement, Daniel Wise. Daniel is and instructor at his studio as well as sole proprietor of Warrior Monk Merch. He is doing some incredible things to help the homeless in Hattiesburg. Don't miss this episode! Music for the episode provided by local band MSPAINT with original songs "Tit…

James and Holley sit down with Hattiesburg local personal injury and civil rights attorney, Matthew Lawrence. Matt is hard at work bringing justice for the people, and in his downtime is also a very talented musician. Matt provides his own music for the episode with original songs "Lucid All the Time" and "Shit Sandwich."…

Join James and Holley as they sit down with local powerhouse, Mike Lopinto, Director of PR and Marketing for the USM Music Department and Director at Hub City Players. Music for the episode provided by Red and the Revelers of Mobile, AL.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

Holley Rumbarger and James Polk sit down with the duo behind Hattiesburg's newest coffee community, Kaffeehaus Fabelhaft, Michael Herrington and Bunyamin Yusufolglu. Music for the episode provided by Plang Phitchaya, USM graduate.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

Join us as we sit down with mixed media artist Gracie Nichols, sole proprietor of Garage Dog Studios, to discuss her life in art! Music provided by Electric Witch with original songs "Angry When It Cums" and "Cold Dreary Night."By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

Join us as we sit down with culinary duo Chef Josh Casper and Office Manager of the City of Hattiesburg Planning Division Larran Pickett as we discuss how they got into the culinary world and came together to create exquisite culinary events! Music provided by New Orleans based Hattiesburg native Jelly Biscuit and his band The Flaky Layers with son…

Lauren Cate Leake is the incredible young female entrepreneur behind Frilly Beauty Lounge in Hattiesburg. She is also an insanely talented singer, instrumentalist and actress. James and Holley sit down to discuss the vast array of her talents. Lauren Cate is a lash technician, a permanent makeup artist, and Belle in Hub City Players upcoming rendit…

James and Holley sit down with local real estate developer and drummer, Joel Ingram. Joel is a dreamer and a doer, making big developments in downtown Hattiesburg. As a member of several local bands, Joel marches to the beat of his own drum. Music for the episode provided by Cole Hill with songs "Right Where You Left Me" and "Steady As We Go" from …

James and Holley sit down with owners of popular music venue The Grill and Grocery. Tina Thames and Carl McQuagge are a dynamic hard working duo bringing music to the city of Hattiesburg nearly every night of the week. Between balancing multiple careers, to raising children, to creating a community within the city of Hattiesburg, Tina and Carl are …

Rough Draft Hattiesburg presents their 20th episode and season 2 finale with none other than Mayor of Hattiesburg, Toby Barker himself! Together we discuss many aspects of Hattiesburg's growth and development under outstanding leadership. We talk music, art, and even play a new game. Rough Draft also has some big news to share. Tune in! Music provi…

Join us as we sit down with perpetual educator Kimberly Kaufman Paola and our first ever canine guest Professor Poxy. Kim has an unstoppable energy that she uses to teach in multiple facets. She has big ideas, maybe even one for a podcast of her own. Don't miss the incredible force of nature we like to call Kimmie P B*tch! This episode's music is p…

"A Mississippi band that formed in the mid-90s. The current members are Steve Cook (bass guitar), Dan Hannon (guitar and lead vocals), Tony Lymon (percussion), and Skeeto Valdez (drums). Their sound is a fairly typical college rock, and similar to other Southern rock bands like Dave Matthews Band. One twist in their bag of originality is Tony Lymon…

James and Holley are back at the microphone with special guest Meg Brooker, Professor of Dance and Director of Performing and Visual Arts at the University of Southern Mississippi. Meg is a highly celebrated instructor and visionary with a lifetime of experience in visual arts. With musical guest King Konga, this is an episode that will have you da…

Season 2 episode 7 of Rough Draft Hattiesburg features co-owner and operators of Switchyard music venue and bar in downtown Hattiesburg. Together we discuss the growth of downtown Hattiesburg, volleyball, games, music, and more. Music provided by Funky Lampshades of Orange Beach, Alabama with "Repo man" cover, originally written and recorded by Ray…

This episode with forager and forester Joseph Hosey of Laurel, Mississippi discusses prescribed fire, edible landscapes, and all things outdoors! Music provided by Royal Horses with their original songs "Rise, River, Rise" and "Yourself Again" from their newest album "Where the Purple Flowers Grow." This is a truly educational conversation with a t…

You do not want to miss our incredible and powerful conversation with Judge Polk-Payton. Gay is a firecracker and an inspiration. Her work in law is a true testament to her courage of conviction and dedication to her community. She has a powerful voice. Not only in the courtroom, but behind a microphone. You may even get to hear her sing (wait unti…

On this episode of Rough Draft Hattiesburg, James and Holley interview two of Petal and Hattiesburg Libraries' librarians; Brittany Tibbett and Megan Wilson. Together, they discuss the form and function of the library, books, book club and library outreach! Music provided by Holley Rumbarger with original live tracks "Kintsugi" and "Uninterrupted S…

Holley and James of Rough Draft Hattiesburg share an incredible conversation with Brett Montague, Chief Executive Officer of the End It For Good non-profit. End It For Good is an education & advocacy organization working to end our country's criminal approach to drugs. Brett shares his incredible personal story and discusses the function and future…

In this episode of Rough Draft Hattiesburg, James Polk and Holley Rumbarger interview the visionary behind Be Yellow Music Collective, Lynlee Paige Walters. Musical interludes provided by Tyler Flathau and the Forgotten Few (Original songs "Savannah" and "Nola"). Musical excerpts from Be Yellow Music Collective artists include "Under Pressure" by N…

Season 2 is a go with dynamite duo Chris and Allyson Puckett. Huge supporters of the arts and entrepreneurs Chris and Allyson discuss music, coffee, chiropractics, and community with hosts James Ray Polk and Holley Rumbarger. This episode's musical guest features Best of the Pine Belt winner of Best Local Band, Grits & Greens, with original songs "…

For our season finale, Rough Draft links up with local podcast and talk show celebrities, Drew Wooten and Jamie Massengale of The Hardy Street Boyz. Together we discuss music, podcasts, the Inaugural Rough Draft Hattiesburg Draftee Awards, our love for Hattiesburg and much more. This hilarious episode includes two original songs "Sweater Weather" a…

Holley Rumbarger and James Polk interview the dynamic duo; Abigail Allen and Rebecca Chandler, co-creators of Hattiesburlesque. These two are the creative minds behind Hattiesburg's one and only burlesque troupe. Abigail and Rebecca empower women through positive body imagery, camaraderie, and acceptance. These two are unstoppable!…

David Walker is a visionary, a wordsmith, a purveyor of fine music, and a pillar to the community. Join Holley Rumbarger and James Polk as they interview founder of University Baptist Church's Back Door Coffeehouse and author of The Max Series, David Walker. Music provided by Alejandro Romero, violinist in Latin American string quartet, Vivento Str…

Rough Draft Hattiesburg presents a bonus track of Jenny Moore (accordion) and James Moore (tuba), performing "I Saw the Light" originally by Hank Williams. Make sure to check out their full episode (Episode 7).By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

On this very special episode, James Polk and Holley Rumbarger interview father/daughter duo James and Jenny Moore of Moore's Bike Shop. The Moore's discuss the Hattiesburg bike community, their family's love for music, the loss of their son and brother to addiction and how his death sparked their efforts in addiction treatment and overdose preventi…

Another beautiful original track by local singer songwriter and open mic host, Stephen Wade Scott. In this one he compares his role in a relationship to a mid-evil torture device. This song is not as painful as it sounds. Not hardly. Not at all.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger

Join James Polk and Holley Rumbarger of Rough Draft Hattiesburg as they sit down with local musician Stephen Wade Scott to discuss music, downtown Hattiesburg, and arsonist squirrels.By James Polk and Holley Rumbarger