Can Mississippi turn brain drain into brain gain?

In this episode of the Bigger Pie Forum Podcast, Rebekah Staples sits down with Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson, Student Ambassador Hattie Heindel, and Communications Coordinator Elena Magliola to discuss why young leaders choose to stay, serve, and build their futures in Mississippi.

From mentorship and leadership development to affordability, community, and opportunity, the conversation highlights what makes the state unique—and why its best days may still be ahead.

What if Mississippi isn't a place you have to leave to succeed? In this episode of Bigger Pie Forum, a new generation of leaders shares why they chose to return home—and how they're thinking about jobs, innovation, affordability, and long-term impact. It's a candid, hopeful conversation about redefining success and building something meaningful right where you are.

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.