The Real Hernando

On The Real Hernando podcast, Derrick spotlights Mid-South Academy for Children’s Theatrics (MSACT), a youth-focused nonprofit expanding children’s access to performing arts through after-school programs, homeschool courses, summer workshops, and productions. Founder and executive director Daphne Cox, treasurer Lindsay Spencer, and secretary Susan Zeringue discuss their upcoming Disney’s Frozen Jr. performances November 6–8 at the Heindl Center for the Performing Arts at Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia, featuring a 34-kid cast ages 8–18, intensive rehearsals, and ticketing via the MSACT website, www.msact.org, or at the door. They share how theater builds confidence, teamwork, and life skills, ou...

How YoBro Coffee Began with Faith, Community & Entrepreneurship in Hernando

In this HYPE Highlights episode, the hosts Dr. Danton Dye and Lauren McLendon welcome Nate and Whitney Russell of Yo Bro Coffee Co. and discuss how the Hernando couple went from dreaming in their kitchen to opening a coffee shop within a year. They share how the name and mission were formed around Romans 12:1, how they paused when they weren’t aligned, and how a pivotal dinner conversation led to a full commitment. The conversation highlights community support, including mentorship and equipment help from Tina Tatum of Co...

Derrick welcomes back Hernando native Preston Wallace to discuss his personal training business Power Up Fitness and the Team Powered Up brand, including how he customizes training and nutrition guidance around clients’ goals, emphasizes accountability and calorie deficit, and trains clients at places like the track while providing equipment. They also catch up on Preston’s character entertainment work as the Hernando Spider-Man. The conversation expands into wrestling fandom and Preston’s pursuit of pro wrestling, training with Pro Wrestling Mid-South in Dyersburg as his superhero-style character “Power Up P,” plus his future plan for a motivational, faith- and fitness-fo...

Jourdan Ohl on Photography, Homestead Cooking, IT Consulting & Mosaic of Faith

Hosts Lauren McLendon and Dr. Danton Dye introduce the HYPE Highlights Podcast and interview Jourdan Ohl, who runs Magnolia Grace Media (photography), Magnolia Grace Homestead (a cottage food operation selling at markets), and Brilliant Systems (an IT consulting business run with her husband and a partner). Jourdan shares her background as a top wedding photographer in Las Vegas, including her “Las Vegas Strip Tour” elopement package, and explains how she pivoted after moving to Hernando, Mississippi, emphasizing relationships, authenticity, and the importance of printing photos. She disc...

Derrick welcomes returning guest Denise McElhaney of Denise’s Happy Hounds to discuss the first annual Howl-O-Weenie Pawty, a costume contest fundraiser on Saturday, October 17 from 1–4 PM at the Tractor Supply lot in Hernando (Harvest Ridge Road off Green Tea). The $10 participation fee supports the Happy Hounds Pet Pantry, a 24/7 community resource providing pet food and supplies to help families avoid surrendering pets; donations will also be collected on-site, including via a donation van. They outline event features such as vendors, three food trucks, face painting by Jenny Parvin (@parvinpaints), prizes from local businesses, and contest categories including spookiest, cute...

The launch of the new HYPE Highlight podcast for the Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs Group, shares that the board has been restructured, and highlights upcoming events, including a Sharpening the Saw Lunch and Learn with Sheriff Tuggle on October 8 from 12:00–2:00 at the Hernando Golf and Racquet Club. Lauren McLendon previews additional plans: an after-hours event at Sweet Fizz in the last week of October (around October 28, details TBD), free Pictures with Santa on the Chamber of Commerce porch in early December, and future Lunch and Learns featuring Robert Foster (District 5 supervisor and Cedar Hill Farms owner) in late Ja...

Sweet Fizz: Hernando’s Soda Shop | Wesley & Heather Callahan

In this episode of The Real Hernando, Derrick spotlights Sweet Fizz Hernando, a locally owned family soda shop at 2362 McInvale Road offering dirty sodas, lemonades, energy drinks (including Alani, Red Bull, and Monster), frozen treats like Dippin’ Dots, and sugar-free options with thousands of custom combinations. Owners Wesley and Heather Callahan share their Hernando-area roots, Wesley’s corporate sales background and layoff that helped spark the business, how they secured and renovated the former Market 23 space, and how demand far exceeded expectations, including a 750-drink grand opening day and 15...

DeSoto Hope Returns: A Night of Hope “Giving Cancer the Boot” + Survivor Stories & How to Get Screened

Host Derrick Michaud welcomes Tracy Gallagher, Ashleigh Parker, and Tina James from DeSoto Hope to reintroduce the DeSoto County nonprofit’s mission to ensure no one feels forgotten during their cancer journey through Hope Baskets, $500 travel grants for second opinions, and $2,500 scholarships for students impacted by cancer. They are promoting the 6th annual “A Night of Hope: Giving Cancer the Boot” on Tuesday, October 27 at the DeSoto County Agri-Education Center (doors 6:00, food 6:30), featuring photo booths, a petting zoo, silent auction, raffles (i...

Hernando Planning Commissioners Jarrett Mashaw and Kevin Thorn Explain the 2nd McDonald’s, Traffic Concerns, What it Means to be a Commissioner, and What’s Coming Next

The Real Hernando welcomes planning commissioners Jarrett Mashaw and Kevin Thorn to explain why a proposed second McDonald’s near the McIngvale/Green Tea area and the I-269 interchange roundabout has become controversial, outlining how plats move from preliminary review to final plat and how the planning commission’s recommendation goes to the aldermen for a vote. They discuss concerns about traffic flow, queueing, and long-term growth around a roundabout already...

Host Derrick Michaud welcomes Jody Woody, an insurance producer at Boren & Hawkins Insurance, to discuss her work selling and servicing home, auto, life, business, and farm policies across Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas, plus how to reach her at 662-429-5115. They trade Hernando-centric hot takes on local roundabouts, the coming second McDonald’s, and community buzz, then dive into Jody’s deep involvement with the Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce—starting as an ambassador in 2013, serving on the board, and becoming president for two years. Jody explains the value of ribbon cuttings, relationship-building, and community support, and shares behind...

On the Real Hernando podcast, Derrick welcomes back Coach Camp to discuss Hernando and DeSoto County youth sports after 30+ years of coaching. Camp outlines local rec baseball/softball leagues at the Robertson Gin Road fields, explains age-group tiers from T-ball through 16U, and contrasts today’s landscape with earlier years as travel/competitive ball has pulled top players from rec leagues. He shares why he values rec coaching for building confidence, life skills, and positive core memories, offers approaches for handling slumps and emotions (including differences between coaching boys and girls), and gives advice to parents about keeping kids’ spor...

Host Derrick Michaud welcomes Brian Couch back to The Real Hernando to talk about his real estate business, Team Couch under the Burch Realty Group, including team structure, office location at Robinson & 51, and how to contact him. Brian shares his 22-year path into real estate, explains why the market is currently a buyer’s market due to higher interest rates and reduced urgency, and notes rising home prices with Hernando averaging $450K+. They discuss Hernando growth, community culture, and local events, plus challenges for businesses due to regulations and the need for more tax base. Brian highlights concern over de...

Derrick welcomes back Ward 4 Alderman Chad Wicker to discuss current Hernando topics and growth. Chad shares that he filmed a video explaining results from a forensic audit related to issues in the city’s utility fund earlier in the year. They talk about Hernando High School Principal Case’s retirement and road work tied to the newer high school site, including the roundabout and repaving. Chad highlights development around McIngvale and a coming McDonald’s, a new water tower to support future growth, and major projects like Delta Landing, including Casa Mexicano and a YMCA expected to start construction soon...

Host Derrick welcomes back Dr. Vivian Lo and Melinda Winchester of Aftrglo Medical Aesthetics in Hernando, a physician-led beauty and wellness spa focused on expert care over trends. They share updates for Aftrglo’s five-year milestone, including continued injectables and laser services, added microneedling (including Morpheus), and new esthetic services like facials, dermaplaning, waxing, lash lift/tinting, and chemical peels with their new esthetician, Alana. The conversation highlights their expansion into wellness with hormone replacement therapy through Revive MD and discussions around supervised peptide therapy, stressing lab work, safety, and avoiding unsupervised online purchases. They emphasize personalized consultations, conservative “rest...

The Real Hernando host welcomes local podcasters Chad Wicker (Hernando Alderman, Ward 4) and Brian Couch (Burch Realty) from the new Roundabout Roundup podcast, which recaps Hernando Board of Aldermen meetings in short episodes so residents don’t have to watch lengthy sessions. They discuss the show’s goals of transparency, humor, and soliciting verified anonymous listener questions, including recent topics like utility fund concerns and Riverside Park facility change orders. The conversation covers city decisions such as denying a new liquor store under updated state law criteria, frustrations with toxic social media and bots, and Hernando growth perspectives. They also...

Host Derrick welcomes Dr. Danton Dye and Lauren McLendon to explain HYPE (Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs) and its relationship to the Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce. They describe HYPE’s purpose of connecting young professionals and entrepreneurs with mentors, building a cycle of giving back, and strengthening the community. The guests outline HYPE’s origins, current structure, and board roles, and discuss using the “Working Genius” WIDGET framework to place people in the right seats for idea-to-execution work. They recap recent and upcoming outreach through events like Sunset on the Square and the Hernando Fourth of July celebrat...

Host Derrick welcomes Brock and Amber Williams to the show to discuss their electrical contracting business, Electrical Repair and Installation, and their nonprofit ministry, Life House. Brock shares how he started the company in 2014 after earning his master’s electrical license, grew from solo service work into residential and commercial crews, and expanded into major accounts and travel work, including Chick-fil-A locations across multiple states; the business also specializes in remodels, custom new construction, service work, and standby generator installation (about half their work). Amber explains joining the business in 2022 to handle administration, scheduling, insurance, and generator permitting, later le...

Host Derrick welcomes Neil Colley, founder of the Fancy Nancy Foundation and host of the Local Yokel's podcast, to spotlight how the foundation—created in honor of Neil’s mother, Nancy Colley—supports DeSoto County nonprofits through fundraising initiatives like vehicle raffles. Neil discusses the current $20-per-ticket raffle of a customized 2013 Jeep Rubicon raising money for House of Grace, a domestic violence shelter serving the region, with discounts for multi-ticket bundles and a drawing planned after 5,000 tickets sell, followed by a local giveaway event. He shares how his work grew from supporting Feed My Lambs and how podcasting helps connec...

The Real Hernando podcast, presented by Thrive Entertainment and produced by SRP Studios Podcasting, spotlights Angela Kidd of Angela Kidd Insurance, specializing in Medicare, under-65 health insurance/healthcare.gov plans, and life insurance. Angela discusses how her Southaven brick-and-mortar office (8830 Center Street, Suite 1) has helped clients—especially seniors—by providing trusted, in-person guidance, while still offering phone and home visits. She explains annual enrollment timelines (Medicare Oct 15–Dec 7; marketplace Nov 1–Dec 15), warns about carrier changes like Cigna leaving the marketplace in 2027, and describes how income updates can prevent subsidy payback at tax time. Angela shares stories of correcting Medicare Advantag...

The Real Hernando podcast invited Brandon Gustafson and Gustafson Properties, a North Mississippi custom home builder with over 20 years of experience, Certified Graduate Builder designations, 100% Hardy Homes, and a 10-year structural warranty. Co-owner Brandon Gustafson discusses the company’s family roots, their Hernando, Monteith Ave office, and their expanding “one-stop” approach through relationships with architects, lenders, and real estate. He explains their process from discovery call through pre-construction, common misconceptions like timelines, and growing demand for renovations as homeowners use equity for upgrades. Brandon also shares homebuilding trends such as outdoor living spaces and safe rooms, the importance of builde...

Host Derrick welcomes Garvin Keen, a LegalShield associate (DreamScape Consulting), to spotlight how LegalShield provides affordable legal support and IDShield identity protection through a monthly membership that connects members to a dedicated law firm (William Anderson & Farrah for Mississippi and Alabama) with attorney callbacks typically within four hours. Garvin shares his personal motivation for helping people understand and use their rights, contrasts LegalShield with relying on friends or online searches, and explains IDShield features including private investigators who can assume power of attorney to resolve identity issues, plus privacy and reputation guidance. The conversation also covers Garvin’s DeSoto Co...

Derrick Michaud relaunches The Real Hernando 2.0 from a new downtown studio and welcomes back Denise McElhaney of Denise’s Happy Hounds for her third appearance. Denise recaps her luxury dog grooming and pet concierge services, her retail area “The Pampered Pik,” and highlights long-term trust-building success stories with difficult rescue dogs. She discusses winning DeSoto’s Best again, the need to expand into a larger space with a fenced yard, and her community efforts through the Happy Hounds Pet Pantry blessing box at 2008 Oak Tree Cove, including issues with hoarding and adding cameras. Denise also reviews the growth of Pet Pant...

The Real Hernando podcast returns after a long pause caused by personal challenges in 2025, including a leg injury from a cannonball at Coach Camp’s pool, the end of Wesley Meadows’ three-year presenting sponsorship, and a studio transition from Big Note Music Lessons to a new location at 2375 Memphis Street behind Fratello’s near the square. The host, Derrick, explains the show’s origins with Robert Carter and how the podcast, launched in February 2022, helped introduce his business to the community while keeping content positive and nonpolitical. With no current sponsors, the format is free to evolve as he rebuilds...

In this inspiring episode of The Real Hernando Podcast, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon shine the spotlight on HYPE – Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs. Founded in 2023, HYPE’s mission is to empower and connect young professionals throughout the Hernando area, building a strong support network for growth and success. Guests Jonathan Hooker and Dr. Danton Dye join the show to share the organization’s origin story, the vision of the new board of directors, and how HYPE continues to provide meaningful value to its members. They discuss the power...

In this heartwarming episode of The Real Hernando, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon dive into what it truly means to be a good villager — showing up, getting involved, and supporting the people and places that make Hernando special. They share stories, laughs, and inspiration while running through a lineup of exciting community events you won’t want to miss!

Upcoming Hernando Events:
🎬 Saturday, 10/25/2025 – 6:00 PM (Open for Seating) – Movie Night at Lee’s Summit Park
💡 Tuesday, 10/28/2025 – 5:30 PM–6:30 PM – Panola Street Lights Unveiling (Chamber)
🍸 Thursday, 10/30/2025...

Today, we are spotlighting Cotillion Social. Their mission is to empower local youth through a transformative cotillion experience that fosters emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and respectful social interaction.

By blending traditional etiquette with modern social-emotional learning, they aim to cultivate confident, compassionate, and socially responsible young individuals who are prepared to thrive in diverse environments and form meaningful relationships.

www.cotillionsocial.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto...

On this special episode of The Real Hernando, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon flip the script and let listeners get to know them better. From their biggest historical influences to their favorite movies, pet peeves, and the most positive memories of 2025, Derrick and Lauren share personal insights and plenty of laughs. They also imagine the perfect day of showing off Hernando to a first-time visitor — highlighting the local spots they’d never skip.

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Br...

On this episode of The Real Hernando, host Derrick Michaud opens up about why the podcast has been on pause, sharing his personal story of a pool accident that rendered a broken ankle and leg and the impact it’s had on his business and studio. He also makes a special announcement: Lauren McLendon will officially join as the new co-host moving forward. Together, Derrick and Lauren talk about what’s next for the show, their vision for future interviews, and how they’ll continue spotlighting the people and stories that make Hernando thrive.

Find at www.TheRea...

On this episode of The Real Hernando, host Derrick Michaud sits down with Lauren McLendon, Alderman At Large for Hernando, MS. Lauren shares her story of moving to Hernando, why she fell in love with the community, and how her career as Director of Operations for a large chemical company prepared her for public service. She opens up about her decision to run for office, her campaign journey, and the historic moment of becoming the first female Alderman At Large in the city’s history. Lauren also discusses her vision for Hernando, the statewide property reassessment, and why she be...

Today, we are spotlighting Emily Ridge and Elite Eye Care

DeSoto County’s best optometry clinic! Elite Eye Care sees patients of all ages! Annual comprehensive eye exams, medical exams including diabetic exams, glaucoma treatment, red eyes, emergencies, cataract evals, dry eye, the list goes on!

Some of Emily’s favorite exams are helping people into specialty contacts! Multifocal, sclerals, and ortho-myopia management lenses! Elite Eye Care is committed to providing excellent customer service and is available to meet all your eye care needs.

www.elite-eyecare.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is p...

“Service is Our Mission; Community is Our Passion”

Today, we are spotlighting Jewels & Garret McDonald of Principle Toyota of Hernando

At Principle Toyota of Hernando, they have a family approach to business that's based on five fundamental guiding principles. They are proud to represent the Toyota brand, as it has a long-standing reputation for reliability and integrity. They work hard to reflect these same values throughout every aspect of their dealership.

Principle Toyota of Hernando’s mission statement is "we live to provide exceptional care". There purpose is to be a trusted, caring friend...

Today, we are spotlighting Vibe Nutrition & Side Street Nutrition

A hi-energy studios with that serves hi-protein, lo-carb, lo-cal meal replacement shakes. They also offer vitamin rich, less than 1g of sugar energizing loaded teas, & more!

https://www.facebook.com/vibenutritionhernando

https://www.facebook.com/sidestreetnutrition

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall...

Today, we are spotlighting Acceptance Counseling.

The weight of life’s struggles can make you feel stuck and overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Acceptance Counseling Services in Hernando and Oxford, MS, they understand how these issues can impact your well-being.

With over 20 years of experience, they are committed to offering you the support you need to navigate your mental health challenges. Acceptance Counseling believes everyone can heal and grow, and they’re here to empower you to do just that. Their services are designed to help you take control of you...

Today, we are spotlighting The Baker’s Corner: Gluten-free Café & Coffeehouse.

They are a dedicated gluten-free and celiac-safe Bakery and Coffee Shop near the Historic Hernando Square, MS, at 39 W Commerce Street.

Joining me is Owner, Leslie King

https://bio.site/thebakerscorner

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Des...

Techtrain365 is all about bringing live, instructor-led training to teams and individuals, whether online or onsite. From mastering Excel shortcuts to navigating cybersecurity, they aim to make tech approachable and useful for everyone.

http://techtrain365.com

901-240-1912

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto Local

95.3 The Rebel

Angela Kidd Insurance

City Hall Cheesecake

Desoto Arts Council

Pok...

Nestled among rolling hills and majestic trees, Blue Haze Farms is a charming, family-owned retreat. Located just 20 minutes from Memphis International Airport and the vibrant nightlife of Tunica, MS, their farm offers the perfect balance of accessibility and peaceful seclusion. Enjoy breathtaking starlit skies and the serene beauty of Blue Haze Lake, fully stocked for fishing enthusiasts.

Blue Haze Farms provides a picturesque escape for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers, whether you're seeking a cozy, pet-friendly farm stay or a unique venue for birthdays, reunions, or corporate retreats. Go experience their little piece of paradise!

...

Southern Community Foundation is a non-profit organization located in Hernando, Mississippi that provides assistance, community contributions, and events to benefit the children of Hernando.

Visit SouthernCommunityFoundation.org to get involved, stay updated on upcoming events, and explore scholarship opportunities for children with disabilities. To support their mission, click the Donate tab in the top right corner. Your generosity makes a difference!

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Sponsored In-Part:

Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter Insurance

Desoto...

The Happy Hounds Pet Pantry supports local families with pets facing financial hardship or living on a fixed income.

They host fundraising events throughout the year, including a calendar contest that engages and involves the community.

Their first event is the Pet Pantry Palooza, April 5th, 2025 from 9-2. Located at 2008 Oak Tree Cove, Unit C, Hernando. It includes Vendors, Food Trucks, Live bands, Easter Egg Hunt, Horn Lake Animal shelter, Microchipping, Pals of Paws, and collar tags. And of course, The Pampered Pawtique, will be open for all of your pets supplies and goodies for...

At The Burger Shop in Hernando, they hand-pat, season, and bake their burgers—just like the good ol’ days! No greasy fast food—just fresh, flavorful burgers baked to perfection. Taste the difference at 2662 HWY 51 South in Hernando, MS. Dine in, enjoy outdoor seating, or grab your order with in-store pickup. The Burger Shop—where great burgers are made, not rushed!

Today, joining me is Owner, TJ Mah

https://www.facebook.com/tj.theburgershop

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also Spo...

Spa Around the Corner (MS, LMT, 969, 606, 3820, 3838) is the Halotherapy Destination of the Mid-South. Their specialty is relieving chronic pain to make you feel refreshed and energized.

Spa Around the Corner was founded in 2013 to bring their clientele relief from chronic pain through massage, using exclusive spa quality, hand-blended products to nurture, heal, and rejuvenate the body.

Today, joining the show is Founder and Owner and Robin Blaisdell

http://www.spaaroundthecorner.com

The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.

Also...