The Freeman Report

College Football is Finally Here and a Little Pushback in New York City

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 19:00:00 -0500

The biggest game in week #1 is LSU and Clemson. LSU has also created a little controversery with trying to sign players that were with NFL teams during the preseason.

A Teacher's Union is pushing back on Mamdami because he does not want to give education paraprofessionals a $10,000 bonus and potential raise. Is there a leak in the dam?

Trump is still being Trump even though the war he said would be over very soon when it started just hit the 6 month mark.

Florida Dems Elected a DSA Member, Enes Freedom and The WNBA, College Football

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 18:00:00 -0500

Angie Nixon was elected in the Democratic primary in Florida and will face Republican Ashley Moody in the November Election. NIxon is an avowed DSA member who wants Free Medicare for all, Free Affordable Housing and much more. How does she propose to pay for it?

Enes Freedom, a former NBA player has declared for the 2027 WNBA draft but was thrown out of a game in Chicago for wearing a T-shirt that did not sit well with one of the players.

Some USA Today writer lists his top 25 gameday party schools and LSU is not even on his list. Ohio St. is #25. Who made the list - Delaware, East Carolina and Southern Cal. His number one is Tulane in New Orleans. Must be something is the tea. I can tell that when a big team comes to Tiger Stadium, which holds over 100k, there may be 200,000 partying on campus. Wonder how many Delaware has? It is not just the number of people, it is the food, drinking and hospitality. No where like the SEC.

And finally College Football is less that two weeks away! Will there be another Indiana this year?

Enjoy,

The Freeman's 2026 College Football Top Ten

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 19:00:00 -0500

Once again my son John, Ten year old Grandson Foster and I make our College Football predictions for the upcoming 2026 season. We also had special guest picker Andrew Williams. Andrew does a Game Day set in Baton Rouge and posts in on youtube. He had us on last year and he always has keen insight.

We also made our Heisman choices and what teams will make the playoffs and win the national championship. None of us had Indiana in our top ten nor Fernando Mendoza on our Heisman radar.

A final note - towards the end of the podcast my little 18 year old yorkie, Sissy, started barking. She has not barked in over a month and I thought she could no longer bark because of her age and physical ailments. When she barked, Foster rushed downstairs to take care of her. A true trooper. She was hearing my voice and wanted me to get her.

Otherwise, I hope you find it entertaining and maybe glean some knowledge. John as always we quite prepared and poised as always.

Enjoy,

Did Wisconsin Dodge a Bullet, Skip Bertman, Jayden Daniels Riff and Barry White

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:00:00 -0500

Wisconsin managed to not elect DSA member Francesca Hong in the Democrat primary for Governor. She lost by less than a point when the polls showed her up by double digits. Who are these pollsters? A few other races with some suprises. My take on why the DSA is gaining traction and then a few musical notes including Barry White.

KFb

Michigan and Virginia Have Spoken, Next Wisconsin & Musical Question & Suggestion

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0500

By all accounts the polls said Abdul Ed Sayed would defeat Haley Stevens by a landslide yet he won by a little over 14,000 votes with over 1&1/2 million cast. How did the polls get it so wrong? I knew Northern Virginia was pretty Blue but thought central VA was more red. She may not be a declared DSA member but Shannon Taylor, former Henrico County Commonwealth attorney certainly has some leanings that way.

Wisconsin is next and if the polls are right this time Francesca Hong should be the Democrat nominee for governor. Some polls say she is currently up by 22 points.

A few comments on economy and then a question on the Rock & Roll hall of Fame and lastly a musical suggestion.

Michigan and Wisconsin Elections, WNBA PR, Mamdami and The Reflection Pool

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0500

Michigan's primary is only a few days away and it appears as if Abdul El Sayed has opened quite a lead which would give the DSA another victory. A few weeks ago it seemed as if Haley Stevens was a few points ahead but now El Sayed is about 13 points up. This after he claimed in a debate he is really a capitalist. Right!! He still believes in the DSA Platform espouses their views. Is this a bait and switch.

Wisconsin also has a DSA member leading in the Democrat field for governor. Francesca Hong is ahead of several other democrats running and she has come out and stated she believes in the same ideas, including the elimination of prisons and free housing. We shall see.

The WNBA PR group just keeps rolling on and it can be confusing as well as Trump still maintaining the damage to the Reflection Pool was done by vandals even though experts have now come out and said it was due to poor installation. Even the contractor has admitted as such.

Enjoy

Michigan Next to Vote, Two Grahams and Sophie

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 20:00:00 -0500

Michigan will be the next big state to have its primary and Abdul El-Sayed, a democrat socialist. faces off against Haley Stevens. Will the DSA continue to make waves?

Also two Grahams in the news this week along with VP JD Vance and a girl named Sophie.

Louisiana Parole Project

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 18:00:00 -0500

Andrew Hundley was sentenced at the age 15 to life in prison for a heinous crime. Due to a Supreme Court ruling regarding life sentences for minors, he managed to get out after 19 years with time served. He could have quietly tried to assimilate back into society working a regular job, but instead he chose to give back and while attending LSU to get a degree he co-founded the Louisiana Parole Project. The organization provides advocacy, training, education, social skills, housing, etc. for prisoners about to be released or those that have already been released. In fact, the LPP just assisted the 701st client who recently got out. The Louisiana Parole Proect assists both men and women. While still in prison they must learn a skill and get at least one certification.

What started out as a mission for Andrew Hundley, who is also the current Exectuve Director, has now become a full-time vocation. He and his group are helping formally incarecerated persons become productive in society.

Also in the interview is john Paul Funes, who was a pillar in the Baton Rouge Medical and Business Community until he, using his words, "got greedy" John Paul spent 33 months in a federal prison in Indiana but is now part of the Project.

I must say I was one who always felt if someone committed a crime they needed to stay behind bars. My trip to Angola, the Louisiana State Penitentiary, gave me a different perspective. Afterall, 90% of all inmates will one day get our of prison and we need them to be good, productive citizens. I truly believe this program could be emmulated in all 50 states. Right now Louisiana is the only one doing it on this scale.

Enjoy,

If you want to know more about the LPP please visit their website at:

www.paroleproject.org.

Colorado Has Now Spoken & Happy 250th America!

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:00:00 -0500

This past week another Democrat Socialist, Melat Kiros, defeated long time Denver congresswoman, Diane Degette. Kiros has even made the comment that the U.S. deserved 9/11. Is this where we are heaed?

Also give my take on Stephen A. Smith lambasting the L.A. Lakers for trading for Walker Kessler and the fact that their three best players are now white. Really and no comments from ESPN or pundits on racial comment.

We are also celebrating our 250th birthday in the greatest country on earth. We need to be proud of it. Please thank those who are serving or have served whenever you can. Their sacrifice keeps our country safe.

New York Has Spoken and Visit to Angola State Penitentiary

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This past week New York City voted for 3 Democrat Socialists for Congress and 5 others for state or local offices. All supported by Mayor Mamdani. Is this where the Democrat Party is headed? I believe a fight for control of the party is coming.

Last night Louisiana republicans elected Julia Letow to be in the runoff for U.S. Senator. Even in her speech she said she thinks Trump is the greatest President ever. Maybe a littel history lesson is in order but that is her belief.

This past Thursday I visited Angola where the worst of the worst criminals in Louisiana are sent. I was there with the Louisiana Parole Project and plenty more to come from that.

Caitlin Clark is continuing to get beaten up in the WNBA and the league does not seem to care. If she leaves they will all care plenty.

Finally, the full moon last night was truly extraordinary!

Enjoy,

Happy Father"s Day- A Tribute to my Dad.

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 22:00:00 -0500

I want to extend a Happy Father's Day to all Dads but I pay tribute to my Dad, who to me was the greatest Dad of all time. He passed away 15 years ago yesterday and I miss him dearly.

California and Maine have spoken!

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This is the first in a series of what I am calling Weekly Digest. It will be about current events. Still will continue to do other topics as well.

Enjoy,

What The Hell is Happening With California Elections

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 19:00:00 -0500

California held elections last Tuesday and they are still not close to declaring who will be in the runoff for both L.A. Mayor and Governor. This in supposedly the Tech Capital of the world. They may still not be complete a week out and does this play into the Democracts hands?

Also a little more on my home state politics, Sissy and a music note.

Enjoy,

Louisiana Politics and a little National Politics

Thu, 28 May 2026 14:00:00 -0500

In less than two weeks we have seen several long term and prominent Republican Senators and a U.S. Congressman get defeated as Trump endorsed their opponents. Bill Cassidy, a friend and former school mate came in 3rd here in Louisiana while long term Texas Senator, John Cornyn lost in his primary to Trump endorsed AG Ken Paxton. One of the two candidates in the runoff in Louisiana even stated that President Trump is the greatest president the United States has ever had. Guess who has his endorsement?

What I don't want are politicians who will do all of his bidding without hesitation. I want politicians on both sides of the aisle that can think and weigh what they believe is the right decision. Is there where we are headed? Is the legislative branch not an independent branch of government any more?

Also cannot wait for the Los Angeles mayor's race coming up soon!

Enjoy,

My Thoughts on Current International, National and Local Events

Wed, 13 May 2026 15:00:00 -0500

There is a lot going on in the around the world with the war, in our country constant protests and even in my state with a recent Supreme Court Ruling. Just giving my take on a few of these and even offer a few possilbe solutions to gerrymandering.

Murder in My City-Baton Rouge and My State-Louisiana

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0500

Last week there was a senseless killing in my home town of Baton Rouge at the Mall of Louisiana when shots were fired by two rival gangs. The mall is located in what most people would call a safe part of town. Not anymore. At least that is the story so far. A week prior 8 children were murdered by their father in Shreveport, LA over a domestic dispute.

The other night another assassination attempt was made on President Trump at the White House Correspondent's Assoc. dinner.

When did we get to this point that it innocent lives are being taken because people get upset. How do we stop this madness? I don't have answers but I do have a few suggestions.

How Do You Put Down An 18 Year Old Dog?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode I talk about our 18 year old teacup yorkie and getting the call after her six month check-up fromt the Vet saying you need to come in to talk about your dog. I knew it was not good at that point.

But here is the story.

Chaos in Airports & a Few Music Recommendations

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0500

Have you traveled since the latest partial shutdown started. In major aiports lines can weave all the way outside as one did in New Orleans. It actually went into the parking garage. Just got back from Puerto Rico and that airport was crazy but just about everyone was civil. Saw two people who never even made it to TSA screening and missed their flights. Who is to blame? To me the answer is simple and both parties should be ashamed. I even make a suggestion as to how we should treat them if they travel while this is still going on. All I ask is that you tell TSA agents you appreciate them. I know I do as they continue to work through this crisis.

Also trying to get back to making few musical recommendations.

Enjoy,

Elite 8 Wrap Up With a Little Pre-Tournament Controversy

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:00:00 -0600

Well by Scott the Khakis are now off and I explain in this episode what that meant. The Elite 8 tournament is finally over but not without some questioning of the seedings just prior to the start of the tournament.

By halftime of several games there looked to be potential upsets. How did they turn out - listen.

Enjoy,

2026 Elite 8 Bracket

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:00:00 -0600

By Scott I intend to wear my khakis as long as the Bears are winning. Finally, the Baton Rouge CSAA Elite brackets for 2026 are out and the tournament begins this week. In my opinion any one of five teams can win the tournament with the championship game taking place this Sunday night. Really, any one of the eight teams that made the tournament can win it all but I give my take on why I think only the top five have a true chance of taking home trophy.

There are people literally all over the country that played in the Elite 8 and I am sure some have fond memories while other remember only heartache.

Will give an update once the big show is over.

Listen To Your Body

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0600

One of the very first podcasts I did was 'Why men wait until it it too late to go to the doctor'. Recently I did not heed my own podcast advice. I do wish to thank the medical that is helping me ge through this. Just wished I would have listened to what my body was telling me.

So I urge you to listen to your body and if something does not feel right, do not wait as I did.

CSAA 2026 Mid Season Update

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:00:00 -0600

The Elite 8 Championship is about a month away and half way through this season has been one to remember. I give my top 8 standings that many may disagree with but any of the top 3 could be #1. Someone has to be. Have not seen this much parity in a long time.

CSAA 8th Grade Basketball Preview

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0600

Many all over the country who have played in this league in years past anticipate the annual preseason rankings for the Baton Rouge CSAA league. Doctors, lawyers and business men living in virtually every state from A-Z may remember playing for one of the teams. Altough the name of the league may have changed several times, the fierce competion remains. The preseason rankings were posted before the Dunham tournament, the first one of the year and boy did it change everything. No one expected the ending results of that tournament and now all are waiting league play to see how things will shake out.

BearTiger is now in the 20th year of posting the preseason rankings and many people let their feelings be known. Click on the link below to be amused.

https://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/more-sports/20th-annual-csaa-formerly-csal-8th-grade-basketball-preseason-rankings/121656844/

Enjoy,

Dementia Research at the Mind Center

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0600

Having done a podcast with someone that has Parkinison's, Frank O'Mara and someone who has Dementia, Austin Goings, never did I think the two might meet but in researching for this podcast I discovered there is something called Parkinson's Disease Dementia. There are numerous types of dementia and the most prominent is Alzheimer's. But how does a doctor discern which type a patient has? For that answer you have to listen.

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Kevin Sullivan of the Mind Center located in Jackson, Mississippi to discuss exactly what dementia is and where are they with research. Curious about the connection to music and Alzheimer's, Dr. Sullivan did not dispute my theory. Having also done a recent podcast with Dr. Kim Tarver of the Mind Center and the head of Caregiver University, I wanted to explore how research in dementia works and the progress that has been made to find a cure. The last five years have shown tremendous progress but there is still much more research to do and Dr. Sullivan and the team at the Mind Center are on the leading edge. Below is a link to the Mind Center. They are in the process of building a brand new facility on the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. I urge to visit the website and if you know someone that has form of Dementia, considering giving to the new building.

https://umc.edu/mindcenter/MIND-CENTER-Home-page.html

Enjoy,

Caregiver University - The Mind Center. University of Mississippi Medical Center

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0600

I never really thought much about Caregivers until recently when I had a conversation with a family member taking care of her sister. Caregivers to me were in the medical field and were mostly associated with hospice, those that came in to help someone at the end of life. My view was totally wrong!

The Mind Center located in Jackson, MS has a program called Caregiver University where they educate family members, friends, and in some cases, others to become caregivers. I learned that caregivers can give up a tremendous amount of personal life, get stressed, both personally and financially, and need help themselves sometimes.

I sit down with Dr. Kim Tarver of the Mind Center to discuss the wonderful things they are doing at Caregiver University. The Mind Center is associated with the University of Mississippi Medical Center. In my conversation with Dr. Tarver I gained a whole new respect for caregivers and hope you will too.

Enjoy,

Trip with John & Foster to Virginia and Week 14 Preview

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0600

John, Foster and I just spent 3 great days in Virginia. Foster and I traveled aroudn the state visiting several Civil War battlefields while John worked and the three of also managed to go to VA Tech/MIami football game in Blacksburg. Was certainly different in Lane stadium than Tiger stadium. People were nice and love the intro with Enter Sandman. But LSU takes tailgating to a whole other level. Went to a tap room one night for dinner and have brunch Sunday morning at a place called Fork in the Alley in Roanoke.

We are also near the end of the regular season in college football and I preview some of the big games.

Enjoy,

Week 12 Preview, Calm Airports & Upcoming Trip with Son and Grandson to Virginia

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0600

I discuss the big college football games for week 12 and we are now in the period where many are right on the edge - lose and they are out of the playoffs. Win and they still have a chance to make the CFP.

Additionally, I traveled to Michigan and Ohio this past week and all airports seemed calm and the TSA personnel were very professional without having received a paycheck in about a month. The shutdown was not over yet and most travelers where respectful. Except for usual ones that still feel like all of us around them want to hear there personal conversations.

Next week John, Foster and I travel to Virgiania for a bit of tourning and attending the VA Tech/Miami football game. Hopefully travel will be like this past week all flights will be on time.

LSU Chaos, Recent Elections & A Great Burger in Front Royal, VA

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0600

Last week LSU had an interim President, head football coach and athletic director. Today we now have a president and AD. I am not infatuated with the choice for president as some alums I have spoken to feel the same way. Many think he was railroaded in as the choice of the governor who also supposedly had a hand in the firing of Brian Kelly and Scott Woodward, the AD. My personal feeling is we have taken a few steps backwards with the recent hire. Was a chancellor also hired to appease the faculty and students? I believe that as well.

New York, New Jersey and Virginia all had elections last week and the people have spoken. New Jersey did not surprise me in electing a democrat governor but I thought the vote would be closer. Virginia was not as surprising, except for AG, as it has a large population of federal workers that live in the state and clearly are not happy at this moment.

Finally, I may start a new part of some podcast segemnts with a food shout out. In this one I recommend the Cavern Burger from Spelunker's in Front Royal, VA. Happened to be in the recently and decided to try their best burger. If you are really hungry get the Cavern double with cheese and bacon. Worth the stop.

Enjoy,

Week 8 Recap & Week 9 Preview with Guest Dave Cox

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0500

Dave Cox is in Baton Rouge to attend the LSU - Texas A&M game and came on the Freeman Report as a guest for the second time. We recap week 8 games and then preview some upcoming games this weekend of Week 9.

Enjoy

Colege Football Week 7 Recap and Week 8 Preview

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0500

Week 7 saw a few upsets and surprises and Week 8 in college football has some games where the loser will probably fall out of CFP contention.

Another coach got fired last week and I am not a fan of the buyout clause for coaches who get let go. James Franklin will get $49 million after being terminated by Penn St. To me you pay for success and sometimes when coaches do well and schools want to keep them after big season, they add to the buyout. I would rather they be paid for success but not be paid huge sums for failure. But I am not an athletic director and these guys make big bucks too.

Enjoy,

Mayor Sid Edwards

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:00:00 -0500

I sit down with Mayor Sid Edwards of East Baton Rouge Parish to talk about his first nine months in office, the highs and lows and also his thougths on Governor Jeff Landry requesting National Guard troops for Shreveport, New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

When Coach ran for office he was a political novice. He is that no more and sees a bright future for Baton Rouge.

Enjoy

Home of The Happy Cajun Prairie with Jordan Lahaye Fontenot

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 18:00:00 -0500

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot's Great Grandfather, Aubrey LaHaye, was kidnapped and murdered in January of 1983. He was a prominent banker and entrepeneur in the small south, central Louisiana town of Mamou. Her great grandmother, Emily, was with Aubrey that fateful morning and saw the abducter before being tied to their bed. Her later testimony would become crucial during the trial. The FBI was even called in to help investigate and ultimately law enforcement settled on one person, John Brady Balfa. John Brady was related to the cajun music group know as the Balfa Brothers. His father evened played with them for a period.

Even to this day some believe he his innocent as the event pitted family against family, friend against friend and even some from the same families as well. There were several suspects, including the mafia. Reading the book you too may find yourself questioning whether John Brady was really guilty or did law enforcement simply want to get quick closure. And Miss Emily's testimony, her description of the supsect contracted what she described in the days after kidnapping. It was ten days before they found Aubrey's body. For the most part the family did not want to talk about it. Jordan was at LSU and wanting to write a story about her family. Her dad told her the story which she vaguely remembered hearing as a child but now he told her to follow the story wherever it took her. And follow it she did.

John Brady reamains in Angola prison to this day claiming his innocence.

Jordan has a gift in writing and this book is not only a story of murder it also is a history lesson about her heratige, Cajun to the core. Beautifully written. I can only hope she continues to write.

Enjoy,

College Football Week 5 Recap & Week 6 Review

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode i recap big games from Week 5, some surprising and then review a few upcoming games for this week.

Enjoy,

College Football Week 4 Recap and Week 5 Look ahead and Link to Foster's Gameday debut.

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:00:00 -0500

Week 4 is now complete and I recap some of the bigger gamesa and then give a preview of some big games for week 5, including my LSU Tigers vs the Ole Miss Rebels.

Below is link to the YouTube video of Grandson Foster and son John on a Andrew's College Gameday, Think Foster could vie for Lee Corso's old job.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO-4cXXym3A

As always - Enjoy,

College Football Week 3 Recap and Week 4 Games

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0500

I look back at Week 3 games and also preview a few big games coming up this weekend.

College Football Week 2 Recap and Week 3 Preview

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode I recap some of the blowouts and bigger games that were played in week 2 and also preview some of the big games coming up this weekend.

Also mentioned my grandson Foster and son John will be on a local version of ESPN College Gameday that came about after we the podcast on the upcoming season. It will be live streamed and also available afterwards and will be filmed at our house. Should be interesting. Maybe I can have my dog, Finn make a guest appearance like Kirk's dogs.

Thoughts on College Football Week #1 or is it Week 0?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0500

Week #1 of College Football is behind us and I give my perspecitve on winners and losers, as well as, my Top Ten. You may agree or disagree but let me know your thoughts.

Grandson Foster Makes His Top 10 College Picks

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode my Grandson Foster (9), my son John and i make our 2025 top 10 college picks and our reasons why. We also pick who will make the playoffs and also who will win the championship. Finally, we reveal who we believe will win the Heisman and lastly make predictions on 5 big games on opening weekend.

Foster has been wanting to do this podcast for a while and his preparedness surprised me but when I told him to pick the Ga. Tech/Colorado game he threw out a neme without looking at anything. We will see how close we all get at the end of the season.

Enjoy,

Airports, Emergency Rooms, Song & Book Review

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:00:00 -0500

In this episode I talk once again about being in airports where many people think they are the only ones there, but also carrying that over to emergency rooms.

Also do a song review by David Gilmour and his daughter Romany and finally a book review by a first time writer that is very close to home.

Mark Hall - President of Atlanta Communities Talking About Real Estate

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 20:00:00 -0500

I sat down with Mark Hall, President of the Atlanta Communities Real Estate brokeage firm, to discuss the Real Estate market. We delved into buying, selling and why you need an agent. HIs insights are invaluable as we also discussed so much more than just real estate but also how you can make money in the real estate market. Although his passion for music does not exceed mine, he clearly could keep up with me in that realm. Also joining us was my brother Taylor and sister-in-law Debbie who happen to work Atlanta Communites. Debbie has her own real estate firm but I learned what a brokage company brings to agents such as Debbie and Taylor.

I look to do another podcast with Mark in the future on a variety of topics. I feel we could go from politics to music to life and not miss a beat.

Prelude to Alzheimer's and Austin Goings

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0500

I have waited almost eight months before uploading the podcast I did with Austin Goings regarding Alzheimer's. At the time he only had Cognitive Memory Issues but now has the dreaded disease.

Many of us know someone that has some form of dementia but I did not realize it true impact until I spoke with a sibling of a beautiful lady who attend the function. I saw first hand how it affected her and although I was sad, she wanted to dance that night and as I cranked up the music for her, she seemed to be the happiest person at the party. She not only danced but she danced to the music and knew the songs. As others joined in she had the biggest smile. She was truly happy. It may be wonder - can music be a part of the process in helping those with types of dementia? Watching her dance I believe it may be possible.

Alzheimer's and Austin Goings

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0500

I sat down with Austin Goings last October when he said all he had at the time was Cognitive Memory Issues. My intent was to discuss how someone prepares for the advent of Alzheimer's both for themselves and their family.

Waiting for a while before posting this podcast I am told Austin now has Alzheimer's. He has lived an extraordinary life as a business owner, husband and father. We also discuss another major medical occurence he had over twenty years and to hear him tell it, well you really need to listen.

If you want to know more about this dreaded disease here is a link:

https://www.alz.org/

As always enjoy,

Real ID Part II & Some Politics

Mon, 19 May 2025 19:00:00 -0500

I truly believed all hell would break loose in major United States airports on May 7th, the day everyone would need a Real ID, or passport, to get through security. LIttle did I know that the federal government would come out on May 6th and say that you could still get through security with a normal driver's license but it might take a little longer. What does that mean that it might take a little longer. How about the millions who, based on what we were told, did it the right way. I blame the Trump administration for this issue.

I also talk a little about politics and why the two sides do not talk to each other anymore. Does anyone remember when they did speak and things got done? We need to get back to that if we are going to move this country forward.

Why do people in airports think everyone around them wants to hear their phone conversation? Where is the civility?

Just some thoughts and hope you enjoy!

Real ID, Travel & Customer Service

Tue, 06 May 2025 18:00:00 -0500

In this episode I talk about having traveled quite a lot in the last several months and was anticipating the complete chaos that was to occur on May 7th with everyone needing a Real ID to get through security. I just read though where they will now allow persons without one to still get through security but it will take a little longer. In my opinion the Trump administration said it would enforce the requirement but now seems to have backed down somewhat. Still believe it will be a chaotic.

Also, as a result of my travels I question whether customer service is dead. If we are in the throws of a recession as some pundits will have us believe, I can tell you every flight was completely full and every city I was in there were people spending money.

Finally, I give a shout out to my daughter, Jamie, and her new independent bookstore which so far seems to be a big success. If you want to buy a book online, I ask that you consider ordering from her at tbrbookshop.com.

As always - enjoy!

Thoughts on Trump Speech and the Aftermath and final Basketball comments

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0500

In this episode I comment on President Trump's recent speech before Congress and some of the reactions. I also give some final thougths about the basketball season.

David Dellucci - St. George City At-Large Council

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0600

He was a major league baseball player for 13 years, president of his homeowners group, a coach, and a mentor. Now David Dellucci wants to run for one of two St. George City At-Large City Council positions. He is passionate about his reasons for running and believes he can make a difference in the new created city which is now the 5th largest in Louisiana. David was part of the original Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team when they were formed and four years later won a world series. He was leader on the field and in the clubhouse and believes he can bring those attributes to St. George.

Listen as David expains his desire to help the new city grow and prosper. He does not have to serve as he is a commentator on both the SEC Network and ESPN. But his passion to help get St. George get off on the right path comes through.

David needs also needs financial support for his campaign and below is a link to make a contribution if you the need. Most importantly, if you live in the City of St. George he needs your vote.

https://www.daviddellucci.com/

Enjoy,

CSAA Mid-Season Standings Update

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0600

As we begin the Elite 8 tournament tonight and continue through the weekend I wanted to give an update with my view of the standings versus BearTiger who posted his as well. Some will argue St. George should be #1 and Mercy #2 based on the finals of the Mercy tournament but I stand pat on my list.
Will there be an upset or two in the Elite 8 tournamant? Tune in soon to find out the outcome.

LOVEtheLOU with Lucas Rouggly

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0600

In 2011 Lucas

Lucas Rouggly, a white man, did not just go find a building or even a store front to begin his mission, no he moved his entire family into the one most dangerous and dilapidated neighborhoods in St. Louis. He felt he could change the neighborhood one person at a time. It was tough but this was not a Serpico moment. Everyone wondered what he was really doing there. He feared for his family but felt this is where he needed to be at that time. They heard gunshots quite often and rarely went outside at night.
When I arrived at the building where Lucas established his mission - LOVEtheLou, he was not ready to do the podcast. He wanted me walk with him around the neighborhood, to get a feel for what it was like. There there were boarded up buidlings and houses all over the area. Cars sped down the streets as if they were in a NASCAR race. People seemed to be friendly though and all knew Louis.
There are 45,000 abandoned homes in St. Louis but the day I was there he gave away a home. I was moved and honored to be allowed to participate in the event.
Lucas also gave me a tour of the buildings his mission has purchased, a church and school to name a few.
He has also torn down abandon houses and put gardens on empty lots where some of the kids are now responsible for maintaining. There are no grocery stores in the area and I truly understood the meaning the of Food Desert. We also talked about what it is like to be dependent on the government; how many have to stand in 21 or 22 different lines to get what they need to survive. They don't want to be dependent but they don't know how to get off. Louis is now teaching kids skills they can use to get a job and become successful. He gave me a tour of his shop where they kids can learn and then he introduced me to Jayvon. He is 18 now and has been coming here since he was 11. Jayvon told me he wants Louis's job and I believe he was have it some day. He started an open gym on Sunday afternoons on his own and now has about 30 people from ages 40 down to 4 coming in. Jayvon, as did Louis, give me hope that there are pockets within this country that really are trying to make a difference. Towards the end of our podcast I asked Lucas why stories like his and Coach Roynell Young in Houston and so many others are not getting attention. These are stories of hope and people making a difference. You will have to listen to hear his answer.

KF

19th Annual CSAA 8th Grade Basketball Preseason Rankings

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0600

For the past19 years some guy name BearTiger, who remains anonymous, post rankings on Tiger Droppings. Sometimes he is dead on and other years he is woefully wrong. He has now postted his rankings for the 2024-2025 season with comments on each ranked team. Many people have speculated BearTiger is me and in fact while I was in the hospitality room at the Dunham tournament the head varsity coach asked me if I was BearTiger. I assured him I was not but wished I could write that well.

I am sure BearTiger will give updates throughout the season and I will keep you posted. Below is a link if you want to read it and most of the comments are worth it as well.

https://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/more-sports/19th-annual-csaa-formerly-csal-8th-grade-basketball-preseason-rankings/116518038/

KF

A New Mayor In Town

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0600

This past Saturday, December 7th, the citizens of East Baton Rouge Parish elected Sid Edwards as the new Mayor. Sid beat out incumbent Sharon Weston Broome who has been Mayor for the past 8 years. Very few gave Sid a chance. He had very little money, was new to politics and the big donor Republicans for the most part were backing Ted James, a Democrat. Ted did not make the run-off and endorsed Mayor Broome. Apparently is endorsement had little impact. Sid received 5% of the the black vote in the primary and gained another 5% in the run-off. Some of Ted's supporters perhaps really did want a change.
Coach Edwards is a fine man and now it is his time to see if he can bring Baton Rouge back to where it was. I truly hope he can and will continue to give updates on his progress. It is refreshing to see a non politician win and now have a chance to bring new ideas and put new people in positions to make a difference.

KF

Get Out And Vote on 12/7

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0600

On Saturday December 7th, the citizens of East Baton Rouge Parish will vote for Mayor-President. The question is do we want the same we have had for the past eight years or try something and someone different. Keeping same might be where Baton Rouge listed as 182nd out of 182 safest cities and 125th of 150th most desirable ciites to live in. I think we need change and believe Coach Sid Edwards can bring about that change. I am asking as a citizen of EBR to give him a chance.

There are also 4 state constitutional amendments that will be voted on and finally the new city of St. George citizens will be voting on moving a 2% sales tax from EBR to the new city. I am not a citizen of St. George but believe moving the sales tax to the city is vital and necessary.

So all who live in this city, this parish and this state I encourage you to get and vote.

KF

Sid Edwards - Candidate for Mayor

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0600

Sid Edwards never intented to run for political office. People had asked him to run for Mayor of Central and Parish Council in East Baton Rouge, but as he said "I am a head coach, not an assistant coach."

Given the current political climate he considered running for Mayor and finally qualified on the last day. Not many gave him a chance and, in fact, several prominent Republicans decided to support one of the two major Democrat candidates. Just before election night the polls had Coach Sid running third at 23% while the two Democrats were at 28% and 29%. Although I thought he might make the run-off, even I was stunned when the final numbers of primary were in and Sid was leading with 34% and the current Mayor was at 31%. The Republican supported Democrat who was at 29% never moved from that number. Seems both nationally and locally pollsters did not get it right.

What impressed me about Sid was he came in first with just $80,000 in campaign funds while the other two spent around $1.3 million. Sid's thought, along with many others is 70% of East Baton Rouge Parish voters voted for a change. I had never met Coach Sid until we did this podcast. I have followed him for years as both a football and basketball coach and he has had success at every school he has coached. He is currently coaching in one of the most impoverished areas of Baton Rouge and believes it is a calling.

Just after we recorded this podcast, the democrat who came in 3rd endorsed the current Mayor which to me was a big surprise as the two went after each in several debates. The current Mayor put out an attack ad that was secretly recorded by an associate of hers. Guess party outweighs the nastiness that occurred between the two. Sid took the high road in the primary and also during the podcast.

Personally, I think it comes down to - do we want four more years of the same as the last eight years or try something new. I believe we need to try something new. For the current Mayor to say during the last debate as part of her campaign "...You have someone who knows about a budget, who can craft a budget.." is not a great platform to run on. Homecides up in Baton Rouge and we need new leadership.

Enjoy,
KF

John Howell, 9/11 and Guantanamo Bay

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0500

On September 11, 2001, the United States was attacked. Terrorists flew planes into both World Trade Center towers in New York. George DiPasquale was a firefighter working at his precinct near the towers that morning. He and nine of his fellow crew members ran towards the towers and eventually entered the north tower. None of the ten, along with countless others made it home that day.

John Howell is the brother of George DiPasquale and was working about 100 yards from the towers. He, like so many others, initially thought a small plane had flown into one of the towers and new the area would be cordoned off to investigate so he headed away. He had no idea his brother George was working that day, nor did he know George had run to the towers. It was not until later did he realize and it was then that he went back to the towers looking for George.

John's pursuit of the truth is unbending and he has been to Guantanamo Bay twice and stared into the eyes of Kalid Sheik Mohammed. Many of us want to know why KSM and his co-conspirators are still alive. John may wander that too at times but his personal quest has led to a different understanding of what justice may mean than to you or I.

KF

Prologue to Jonn Howell, 9/11 & Guantanamo Bay

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0500

Just prior to beginning my podcast with John Howell I was handed a document involving the United States vs five defendants being housed at Guantanamo Bay. Of the five is Khalied Sheik Mohammed and the others are his co-conspirators. I had every intention of reading what was on the page at the end of our podcast but there was an unexpected turn towards the of the podcast, fully justifiable, and I forgot to read the document.

I decided instead it would make a perfect introduction to the podcast I did with John.

KF

Getting Out of the Box with Dave Cox

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0500

There are few people I would say are a consumate salesman. Dave Cox is one of the few along with Gary Towler, Lloyd Baker and several others. He will make you laugh and smile even if you don't agree with him. He tends to text me all times of the day and night and I know I am not the only one. I have known Dave for years and have been wanting to do this podcast for quite some time. Ending up at his beautiful house in Charlotte, NC, he really did not have much choice.

I promise he will make you laugh as well. He wears his politics on his sleeve but did not do so in this episode. He and his wife Trudy were gracious enough to host me for a day and a night as I was doing another podcast in Charlotte which I will post in a few days. Dave is a true friend and a personality like no other.

So now I have finally managed to get out of the box with Dave Cox and you will too.

KF

Riding Out Hurricane Francine

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:00:00 -0500

As Hurricane Francine is about to hit the coast of Louisiana I try and give some perspective of being in the path of the storm. At one point Baton Rouge was directly in the path of the eye which can be the worst part of the storm. For some reason once Francine hit land it veered right and headed towards New Orleans. We still had heavy winds and non-stop rain for at least 8 hours. During the night I looked into my front yard and notice half of one of my large oak trees was down. As the sun came up I was able to assess the overall damage and now know I lost a big tree and possibly a few more. It fell away from the house which is good because had it fallen on the house it might have exactly where I was sitting in the living room. But alas it did not and all is good.

KF

Greatest Rock Bands of the 80's & 90's.

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 20:00:00 -0500

In this Episode of The Freeman Report, my son John and two of his friends, all turning 40, give their take on the Greatest Rock Bands of the 1980's and 1990's. Nephew David Dellucci was also supposed to participate but he had a sudden conflict so I did his list. Tyler Downing filled in for David on short notice and did a masterful job. Will Leblanc is probably more prepare than just about anyone but me. His and John's knowledge of these bands and their take is worth listening to.
Although i knew most of the bands all chose, my knowledge of them is nothing like the 60's and 70's bands. There was some crossover but their perspectives of why they were chosen is different.

My original take was it would be bands formed in those two decades but they felt the bands had to be relevant in that time period. Listen and you too may gain some insight into the minds of these three guys who are turning 40 this year. In fact we gave John and Hilary a big 40th birthday bash just last weekend.

Hope you enjoy and would love feedback as well that you can send to me at
jkfreeman11@cox.net.

KF

Parkinson's Disease & The Frank O'Mara Story

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0500

He was a world class athlete and ran in three Olympics, won the NCAA in the 1500 meters for the University of Arkansas and two world indoor championships. After receiving a degree in Civil Engineering from UA he went to get his MBA and not satisfied with that, a law degree. He became the Chief Marketing Officer for Alltel Wireless headquartered in Little Rock, AR. After the sale of Alltel to Verizon he was then asked to become the CEO of Allied Wireless which was eventually sold to AT&T in 2013.

Frank was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2010, yet he managed to build Allied Wireless in a successful company while he was in the early stages of Parkinson's. In fact, when first diagnosed he refused to and thought if was merely a sports related injury. He has no tremors or speech issues so there was no way in his mind he had Parkinson's.

Having met Frank and read his book 'Bend, Don't Break', I can tell you he is an extraordinary man and one I am proud to know. His story, athletically, professionally and personally is one worth hearing. He will inspire you as he did me. There is so much more Frank wants to do and I have no doubt he will conquer whatever he sets his mind to.

Enjoy,

KF

Italy in 12 Days, Medical Update and some Recommendations

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0500

In this episode I recap our trip to Italy done over 12 days where we visited Venice, Florence, Sicily and Rome. I don't think you can pack much more into a trip than what we did and it was a wonderful time had by all 19 on the trip.

I also give medical updates on my Liver disease, learning something on my last appointment that I did not know before about the late stages of liver disease as I thought my Dr. was checking me for early stages of Parkinson's.

Finally, I make a few tv and book recommendations and reveal a few upcoming episodes of the Freeman Report.

Enjoy,
KF

Finding Hope Part II

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0500

The response to my episode on Finding Hope was truly overwhelming. I did not expect nor anticipate so many reaching out. Having started a new trial drug today for my PBC, not sure if I have the placebo or the real drug, the trial will last about a year. My intent is to offer to be a participant in any new trial they start.

Was a little concerned this morning because of new medicaton I am on for a newly discovered issue named Facet Synovitis. That was discovered last week after I had my first ever MRI. Being treated but headed to Italy on Thursday so hopefully I can get some relief but was more concerned about drugs being compatible. Apparently they are so off I go but I express my heartfelt thanks to all of you who reached out.

Now at then end of this episode I have a challenge for you and I hope you take up the cause.

Enjoy,

KB

Finding Hope

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 21:00:00 -0500

In this episode I talk about my journey for the last nine years after learning I have an incurable liver disease. My intent is for others that may have been informed that they have a serious disease, whether it is cancer or some other debilatating illness. there can be hope. I discuss both my mental and physical path but want people to know there can be help out there. My intent was also to have another individual share their journey but they did not feel comfortable and I respect that. If I can help one person feel like there is hope and how to live the remaining part of your life in a fulfilling way, I maybe will have accomplished something positive. Find that passion and commit to living your life. In many cases there are people or groups out there which can also help.

Just a quick update, after recording this episode I received the results of my latest fribroscan which I had last week as I am trying to get into a trial for a new drug. Apparently the hardness or stiffness of my liver had increased by 20% within the past year and my fatty content level is now borderline to the highest level. You can reduce the fatty content in your liver but not the stiffness. It may impact me getting into the trial for the new medicine and a new curve thrown but I will persist.

KF

Trivia about some Rock & Roll Bands of the 60's and 70's.

Fri, 10 May 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Last year while attending a conference in the D.C. area my friend Dave Cox told me he a trivia question for me and if I answered correctly I would win a prize. All he did was mentioned the name and I rattled off several facts and he simply said "Damn son, you win the prize." I also saw the Eagles in concert a few months ago in New Orleans and that too got me thinking about trivia of Rock & Roll bands and wanted to share some. Some you may already know and some you may realize you never knew. Either way this is lighter episode and I hope you enjoy it.

KF

Dr. Linda Roberts - Doctor of Holistic Chiropractic Medicine.

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:00:00 -0600

When she was a teenager she was trying out for the Olympic swim team when something did not feel right in her shoulder. The team doctors wanted to do exploratory surgery but her Father stepped in and told them absolutely not. Linda Roberts did not make the Olympic team but a desire to understand her injury spurred her to go to medical school. After doing her undergraduate studies at Muskingum University in Ohio, she attended Duke Medical School and then became a Cardiac Thoracic Surgeon. Her intent to do surgery as a last resort caused some concern and Dr. Roberts left her practice and went to Europe to find herself. Eventually she went back to school and get a degree in Chiropractic medicine. Her emphasis is treating her patients in a holistic manner. She now practices in Atlanta, GA but travels the country providing her services to professional athletes, movie stars and other celebrities. Channing Tatum was one of the first big names she managed to help.

Dr. Linda Roberts story is fascinating but far from over.

Enjoy,

KF

Dr. Vince Hafeli on Suicide in the Construction Industry

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0600

Sometime in 2007, Dr. Vince Hafeli got into his truck after dinner at home and started driving. Was he on his way to the store, the office or perhaps even a sporting event? No he was headed to the place where he was going to take his own life. A phone call made him stop. Who made the call and how did impact his decision not to take his own life. You will need to listen to this episode to find out the answers.

The rate of suicide in the construction industry is 4.3 times higher than the national average. Why is that? Dr. Hafeli and I discuss why the rate is so high and what drives people in our industry, and basically anyone, to even consider taking their own life.

Just about everyone knows of someone that committed suicide but did we see it coming? Dr. Hafeli contemplated his suicide for over a year and it had actually been building up for eighteen years. In 2007, Vince was an executive with a major paving company in Central Florida. Today he is president of the company. The point - it can happen to anyone.

KF

Prostate Cancer, The Blue Ribbon Soiree & Janey Nasca

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0600

In 2006 her husband Dr. Joel Nasca, a plastic surgeon and next door neighbor and good friend Dr. Larry Ferachi, an orthopedic surgeon, were both diagnosed with prostate cancer. Janey Nasca was determined that both men would beat the cancer. Joel was 59 at the time and Larry was only 56 years old. Men their age did not get prostate cancer. Neither man beat it but their diagnosis's started her on a mission to help find a cure. Janey is also a surgical nurse and thus also involved in the medical field.

Joel died in 2011 and Larry passed away 14 months later. In 2007 Janey began her fundraising effort for a cure by running a race in Washington D.C. and managed to raise $5000. She then became involved in One Man Shoot, a fundraising group also designed to raise funds for prostate cancer. Finally in 2011 she, along with close friends Ricky and Kathy Lato, held the first Blue Ribbon Soiree in Baton Rouge. Last month they had the 12th annual Blue Ribbon Soiree and raised over $170,000. It is an event to attend but you must wear blue. The majority of the money goes towards research headed by Dr. Oliver Sartor who recently left Tulane Medical Center to work at the Mayo Clinic.

In this episode Janey and I discuss prostate cancer, her journey with Joel and finally the beginning and success of the Blue Ribbon Soiree. I thought this type of event was held in just about every major city across the United States. There is only one Blue Ribbon Soiree and few more fundraising events for prostate cancer in two other cities. Her story well worth listening to.

KF

Places in Baton Rouge That No Longer Exist

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Just about every city or town across America at one time had iconic places where people would shop, eat or be entertained that no longer exist. Baton Rouge certainly has it's share and in this episode the gang is back to discuss and reminisce about some of those places.

Even if you are not from my hometown may listening will stir memories of places where you grew up. Please email about places whether in Baton Rouge or the town you grew up in that no longer exist.

Enjoy,
KF

Election Day in Louisiana and Fighting City Hall

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Today is Election Day in Louisiana and I give my thoughts and make a few predictions. Also comment a little bit on fighting City Hall.

KF

A Conversation with Macie Morgan and Carson DeLarue on Politics and Upcoming Elections

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Macie and Carson reached out to me about giving them advice on how to start a podcast and I told them why don't we do one together. Macie is Communications Director and Carson is Director of Governmental Affairs for ABC for the State of Louisiana. In this episode they give a fresh perspective on politics and Carson and I discuss a few of the upcoming races.

Enjoy - KF

Interview with Jody Plauce - Author of 'Why Gary Why'

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 20:00:00 -0500

In 1984 Jeff Doucet kidnapped eleven year old Jody Plauche and took him to California. Jeff had essentially become a member of the Plauche family as Jody's karate instructor. Little did everyone know that Jeff had been sexually abusing Jody for over a year. Jeff was finally caught and upon returning to Baton Rouge Gary Plauche, Jody's father. was waiting at the airport. As the television camaras began to roll, Gary shot Jeff on live television. Surely he would be found not guilty by reason of temporary insanity. No chance but to find out the whole story I encourage you to listen and find out how Jody overcame the torment and is a productive citizen of society today. He even goes around the country giving talks to victims groups.
One warning, there is some graphic content in this podcast and I would suggest you do not listen to it with kids in the car.

Enjoy
KF

Brian Tuner - A Miracle

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Brian Turner was returning to Baton Rouge from Tampa Bay over the Thanksgiving Weekend when he stopped at the Buc-ees just inside the Alabama state line. It was raining and he got a little wet but thought nothing of it. Monday he went to work and thought he might have a cold or possibly the flu from being in the rain. When he went home that evening he called his sister and told her did not feel good. She immediately called 911 as Brian never complained. He vaguely remembered the ambulance and then went into a coma. Upon waking up six days later he saw his brother who had come in from overseas. He knew something was wrong. His story is one of hope.

KF

Same Song - Different Artists

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 21:00:00 -0500

In this episode the musical gang gets back together and explores the same song performed by different artists. It is really interesting to hear how musicians have, in some cases, quite different takes and you may not even know it is the same song. Although there are many to choose from we narrowed it down to just a few with some history on some of them. You might even know of a few yourself.

Enjoy,
KF

Crime & Unpunishment

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Freeman Report I sit down with two former Chiefs of Police to discuss the current state of Crime in Baton Rouge but their perspectives can really be related to just about any major city in the United States. Is there hope for our country? One thinks so and the other was a little more cautious.

It should be noted that former Chief Pat Englade, who was a guest on my very first podcast on Defunding the Police, was the Police Chief in Baton Rouge when serial killer Derek Todd Lee causing stalking women in the greater in the Greater Baton Rouge area.

Although this episode is quite long, I think it is well worth listening and getting a first hand view of the state of crime today.

KF

Danielle Mixon - Occupational Therapist and the Musgatova Method

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:00:00 -0500

At the age 2 Danielle Mixon’s son withdrew and went into his own world and would have severe tantrums. Danielle was an Occupational Therapist herself and began working with her son trying to reach him and bring him back but nothing seemed to work. A friend suggested she take her son to a therapist that was doing something different, and this therapist began working with the son but also gave Danielle techniques to work with him at home. After about month of this different therapy, one day as she was working with him he managed to look up at his mother, open his eyes and smile for the first time in a very long time. It was at this point Danielle recognized the value of the Musgatova Method and began pursuing training in it herself.

Today she has her own clinic just outside of Baton Rouge where she and her staff are making a huge difference with not only kids, but some adults as well.

In this episode of the Freeman Report I explore how Danielle became a believer in MNRI and exactly what it is. She is very proud of where her clinic is today and how far she has come. And her son? She has a picture of him in a football uniform hanging in her office.

Enjoy,

Kenny

Opioids & Suicide In The Construction Industry

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 20:00:00 -0500

In November of 2022 while attending a conference in the Washington D.C. area I heard a presentation on Opioids and Suicide in the construction industry. During the presentation Rick Rhinehart of CPWR informed the audience that the #1 industry in the United States for Suicide by opioids was the construction industry. Having been in the industry for over 40 years I was skeptical but intrigued and approached Rick about coming on The Freeman Report. He said he would but later felt someone else within his company was an expert. Ultimately Chris Rodman with CPWR could not be on the podcast but suggested Brendan Loftus. Brendan not only talks the talk but has walked the walk. After talking with Brendan I knew he was the right guest to speak on the subject and after you listen I think you will agree.

Whether someone is the construction industry or not, there are signs that someone may be in trouble and we need to be bold enough to act. To possibly save someone's life. We not only discuss the signs but also how to get someone help. Many people get hurt on the jobsite and are given legitimate prescriptions for pain but if they are not careful they can become addicted and when the prescription runs out where do they turn to ease the pain? There is a market out there for illegal drugs and now throw fentanyl into the mix and the combination can be deadly.

KF

Dr. Larry McCaskill - Veterinary Acupuncturist

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 18:00:00 -0600

Little did I know when I did the Acupuncture podcast with Stewart Sommers it would lead me to discover Dr. Larry McCaskill, a Veterinarian who practices acupuncture on animals. Once I started to look into Dr. McCaskill's background there was so much more to the man. He played football at LSU and then left his senior year to become a pilot and flew in Vietnam and later the Gulf War. Doesn't sound like much but they told him he was too big to be a pilot. He then became a veterinarian and flew mostly international flights several days a week for many years.
One of his destinations was China were he became interested in various Chinese medicines and medical practices, including acupuncture. He became so proficient at it he eventually would fly to China once a year to lecture and train the Chinese on veterinary acupuncture. There is more to Larry but I will let you discover on your own.

KF

Coach Lee Hedges

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

He is the winningest Coach in the Shreveport/Bossier area of North Louisiana but he is so much more than a coach. He is now 93 years old and played football for LSU, The Louisiana State University in the late 1940's and early 1950's. After serving in the army during the Korean War, he returned to Shreveport and began coaching on the high school level. Today the stadium at Captain Shreve, his last stop as a coach, is named after him. Lee Hedges was also named at one point Teacher of the year.
Having coached Terry Bradshaw in both high school and his first year at Louisiana Tech, when I asked him if Terry was as crazy back then as he is now it was almost like - next question. During Bradshaw's freshman year at Tech there was another QB named Phil Robertson. Asking coach who was better his commented "Phil seemed to be into things other than football".
Returning to the high school level he eventually started the football program at Captain Shreve where he won the 1973 state championship. As both an assistant coach and head coach he had been to the championship 4 times before he finally won the big. He also coached tennis at Captain Shreve an won 15 state titles in that sport.
His story is worth telling and I hope you enjoy it.

KF

Claire Kantrow Episode #2

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

We had so much fun on the first episode we decided to do another. In this episode Claire talks about pain and how the body deals with it. She also discusses the brain and how it plays a significant part in how it sends messages to the body to protect itself from danger, including pain.

Claire is a Physical Therapist who treats patients from a holistic perspective and may be somewhat on the forefront of what may become trending medical techniques.

KF

Pat DiCerbo

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Pat is what I would call a Renaissance Man. Not knowing what he wanted to major in at Union College in New York, a friend asked him if he would interested in a Cultural Anthropology for the summer but he would have to travel to Barbados. He thought it would be fun and agreed. The next summer he ended up in Mexico and finally the following summer made his way to Spain and had now found his major. He then added Spanish as a 2nd major. The lessons he learned first in Barbados, then Mexico and Spain, although he did not know it at the time, would teach him, not only life skills, but also life lessons. I had never even spoken to Pat until two months ago and I found Pat's life story worth telling. We only scratched the surface and hopefully I can get him back on. I hope you too will find him one of the most interesting people you ever met. Did I mention he does Triathlons?

KF

Claire Kantrow - Holistic Physical Therapist

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 21:00:00 -0600

She claims she is a physical therapist with an identity crisis. Her background is in pain neuroscience, chronic disease, mental health, trauma, fascia and myofascial release, trigger points. Sounds like a mouthful but after you listen you will realize her approach to physical therapy is so much more. When most of us think of physical therapy we think of it as part of post surgery, pain management or rehabilitation of an injury. Claire treats the whole person and not just isolating on the location of the pain or injury. She used work in an orthopedic clinic and had very little time to really understand what was truly the cause of the issue. Then she listened to Dr. Gabor Mate' and changed her entire approach to PT. Below is a link to a youtube of Dr. Mate' and is it well worth viewing and listening to as well. I am also putting a link to one of Claire's youtube sessions. Give this a listen and your thoughts PT may be changed forever.

Dr. Mate': https://youtu.be/AEpD2o6MZOk

Claire K: https://youtu.be/wgm9kZN1-xY

Enjoy - KF

Industry Makes

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 17:00:00 -0600

Did you know that 96% of all manufactured goods are directly touched by the chemical industry? The next time you sit in your car look around at all of the products and think how many are made as a result of the chemical industry. The industry contributes heavily through taxes to schools and municipalities and, in fact, in many cases in Louisiana a major chemical company is more that likely the largest tax contributor. Many of their employees also volunteer in the schools and community.
In this episode I sit down with Desiree LeMoine, Campaign Manager for Industry Makes, to discuss the value of the Petrochemical, Refining, Pulp and Paper, Power and other industrial entities.

I encourage you to visit the website at www.industrymakes.org.

JKF

Acupuncture

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Most people think it might be painful but Acupuncture is far from it. In fact it helps alleviate pain, stress, digestive issues and so many more. If you have back pain or migraine headaches you may want to give acupuncture a try. There were times where I could barely walk but one of my sisters convinced me to go see Stewart Sommers, a Certified Acupuncture Practitioner and after just one session I could begin to feel a difference. He is also helping veterans relieve their stress.

Here is a link to Stewart's clinic in Baton Rouge: www.acupuncturebr.com
You can find a wealth of information on it. Whether you are in Baton Rouge, New York, Chicago or Seattle, I urge to consider acupuncture as a viable solution for numerous ailments.
Enjoy,
KF

Judge Marion Edwards

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 20:00:00 -0500

At the age of 10 he had a brother, John, born prematurely and some thought John would never leave the hospital and make it home. Everyday after school Marion Edwards would go sit with John until one day he was well enough to go home. How did older brother Marion get him home? On a city bus and then he put John in his room to look after him.
When he was 11 his sister Louise wanted a piano but the parents would hear none of it. Marion went to the piano store and offered $100 for a used piano even though the asking price was $150. The owner agreed to the $100 but Marion said there was a catch - he did not want his parents to know he bought the piano so the owner had to say Louise won it in a contest. Did she learn to play? Well enough to be on the verge of being accepted into Julliard at 16 but then their mother died and she ended getting married instead.
Many of us in looking back may ask ourselves 'did we make the world a better place and did we make a difference in people's lives?' Once you hear Judge Edwards' story you will have no doubt that he did!

Top Ten One Hit Wonders

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 20:00:00 -0500

The Gang is back and sit down to reveal what we consider to be the Top Ten One Hit Wonders.
Wayne Barbin, Randy Amar and I discuss our top ten list, some background on the artists and how we arrived at the chosen songs and artists. I really thought we would all have a lot in common but that was not to be as Wayne once again stunned with his #10 choice. Once again what I thought would be a simple method of reaching my list proved more difficult with each song. There is no right or wrong list but would love to hear from you on your list.

Please feel free to send me your top ten list as well.

Enjoy,
Kenny

Hoodlum Lawyer - A book by author Mark Jones

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 21:00:00 -0500

You have probably heard of Al Capone, Sam Giancana, Carlos Marcello or even Whitey Bulger but few, if any, have heard of Joseph Bulger. Some say he was one of the real leaders of the Chicago Outfit. As a teenager he worked on the docks in New Orleans and after his father died he moved the family to Chicago and changed his last name. He became a lawyer, mayor and so many other things.

In 1966 he was flying his plane from Chicago to Miami, where his second family was living, when his plane mysteriously crashed. His Chicago family knew nothing of the Miami family until after the crash and his dual life began to be revealed.

Some believe he was not on the plane that crashed and he left the country and lived out the remainder of his life somewhere in South America.

On this episode I sit down with Mark Jones, grandson of Joseph Bulger, and the author of the book - Hoodlum Lawyer.

Think you know everything about the Kennedy assassination? Listen to hear what may have really happened.

Decarbonization and The Value of Mechanical Insulation

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 21:00:00 -0500

When most people think of insulation they think of the pink stuff in the attic and in the walls. Mechanical is on a whole other level and can truly help in the efforts towards decarbonization and reducing green house gases. As Ron King coined one time "We are the Forgotten Industry". Those of us in the industry need to change that and hopefully this podcast will move the needle.

I sit down with Michele Jones, Executive Vice President/CEO of the National Insulation Association to discuss how Mechanical Insulation can greatly help in reducing carbon emissions; but Mechanical Insulation does so much more. Many think of light bulbs and how they are helping with carbon reduction because you can see a light bulb go on and off. A light bulb though cannot hold a candle to what Mechanical Insulation does.

Domestic Violence

Sun, 22 May 2022 20:00:00 -0500

I sit down with Melanie Fields, Assistant District Attorney with the East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney's office and Suzanne Hamilton, Executive Director of the Capital Area Family Justice Center to talk about Domestic Violence. Some believe there should now be a social worker assisting law enforcement on Domestic Violence calls while others believe they should not be put in harm's way.
Domestic Abuse is something we may read about but not understand what goes on behind closed doors and it occurs across all socioeconomic spectrums.

Melanie Fields has started a new program called "Stop The Loss" they targets the abusers. We all hear about the abused but what is being done to help the perpetrators of Domestic Abuse?

A Conversation With Uncle Bubba Field - 92 years young

Mon, 09 May 2022 18:00:00 -0500

He came to play football at LSU from Marshall, TX in the late 1940's and became the owner of his own car dealership. Managing to retire at the ripe old age of 49 he has now been retired longer that he worked and says he maybe should have worked a little longer. I had not seen him for at least 20 plus years but finally managed to visit him while he was in Baton Rouge. Uncle Bubba, my Dad's best friend for years beginning when they played together at LSU, turned 92 on Cinco de Mayo and I can only hope that if I live that long I in as good shape as he is both mentally and physically. For me it was an honor to have him on the Freeman Report.

Coach Roynell Young & Pro-Vision

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Although he grew up in New Orleans and was named Defensive Player of year while attending Alcorn State, it was when he was playing for the Philadelphia Eagles and living in Philadelphia when the seed for his true purpose was planted. During his time in Philadelphia Coach Roynell would bring the homeless back to his high rise apartment and give them a hot meal and clean them up. Ultimately it was when he, his wife and son Roy Jr. moved to Houston where the seed began to grow. He saw the blight and despair in the community of Sunnyside and felt he had to give the kids there a chance and this was the beginning of
Pro-Vision. At first a school for young men, he also came to understand young girls needed just as much opportunity. He now has a much broader vision and wants to establish an entire community where people can live, play, eat and work in a secure environment. He believes if he can be successful with Pro-Vision in Sunnyside, it can help lift up the surrounding area and give hope to many who do not see a way out.

Coach Roy wrote a book about his exploits, 'Walking In The Shadow of Footsteps' and one of the things that impressed me the most was how he and a friend started Pro-Vision and no one knew he was a former professional football player. He did it with his own need to give those less fortunate a chance for a better life. His story is truly inspiring but even more important is the impact he has had and is still having today.

Tim Johnson - The TJC Group

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0600

Tim Johnson is the Founder and President of The TJC Group a consulting firm headquartered in Baton Rouge. Tim was not necessarily looking to get into the political world but and offer to work in the Louisiana Senate while attending LSU changed all that. He now heads up a very successful consulting firm and has clients such as ExxonMobil, Shell, BASF and GBRIA - the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance. Tim's story and his views on politics today are worth listening to.

The TJC Group is also embarking on a new program with Police Chiefs that Tim hopes to grow and assist in communication between the communities and police.

KF

SuperBowl Thoughts

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Since there are a few ties to LSU and one that is actually personal I wanted to weigh in and make a prediction about the SuperBowl today.

I watched as Joe Burrow led the LSU Tigers to the national championship. Also in that group was one of his favorite receivers, Ja'Marr Chase, now the NFL offensive rookie of the year and Thaddeus Moss. Tyler Shelvin, another Tiger is also with the Bengals.

On the Rams side you Odell Beckam, Jr. and Andrew Whitworth. I actually employed Andrew Whitworth for several summers while he played at LSU and tell a little story about his character and what I observed during a high school basketball game. Andrew just received the Walter Payton award as NFL Man of the Year and he is most deserving.

KF

Human Trafficking Part 3

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 18:00:00 -0600

In this episode we explore the path to healing. Father Jeff Bayhi of Baton Rouge and Father Chuck Swanson of Omaha, NE talk about how hopelessness can turn into hope and what they are doing at Metanoia Manor. As Father Jeff says, we need more boots on the ground regarding human trafficking.

As you finish the series I ask that you consider making a donation to either Metanoia Manor at https://www.metanoia-inc.org/ or a home for human trafficked victims near you. The children need our help so much. They will be scarred for life but we can give them a ray of sunshine.

Thanks for listening and please feel free to provide feedback or commentary at jkfreeman11@cox.net.

Human Trafficking Part 2

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 17:00:00 -0600

This Episode delves into the victims period of captivity and how their pimps or handlers control them.

Human Trafficking Part 1

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:00:00 -0600

This is the first of a three part series on Human Trafficking. It is an interview with Father Jeff Bayhi and Father Chuck Swanson who established and oversee Metanoia Manor , a home for female juvenile survivors. There are over 5000 animal rescue shelters across the United States. Care to guess how many beds there are for juvenile survivors of human trafficking? I think you will find the number astounding..

Please enjoy and if you find it in your heart to contribute to either Metanoia Manor or any home for victims please do so. These are human beings that have been scarred for life and they desperately need our help.

KF

Prologue to Human Trafficking

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:00:00 -0600

On October 13th I interviewed Father Jeff Bayhi and Father Chuck Swanson on the topic of Human Trafficking. Father Bayhi had even given a talk at the Vatican on this very subject. During the first part of this three part series Father Bayhi had a coughing spell, some of which occurred when Father Swanson was speaking. Because of the spell and not being able to edit out his coughing during Father Swanson's comments I felt the need to explain and ask you to bear with the Part One and then listen to Part Two and Part Three. Father Bayhi managed to find his cure and comes back strong in the final two episodes.
I also felt the desire to explain why I am doing a podcast on human trafficking and what piqued my interest. This a very sensitive subject and one that is going on all the time right in front of us. Human traffickers don't differentiate demographically either.

Enjoy and once you have listened to the complete podcast I sincerely hope you find the need to contribute wherever you are and wherever you can be it Metanoia Manor or some other home for Human Traffic survivors.
KF

Greatest Rock and Roll Bands of All Time Part 2

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:00:00 -0500

This is the second part of The Greatest Rock and Roll bands of all time. Again I hope you enjoy and please send me your list if you have time to: thefreemanreport2@gmail.com or jkfreeman11@cox.net.

Enjoy

Greatest Rock & Roll Bands of all time Part 1.

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:00:00 -0500

This is Part 1 of the Greatest Rock and Roll Bands of All Time. Three guys came together to present their picks without knowing the others choices. Wayne Barbin is product of the 60's and also played in the band Raspberry Fogg. I grew up in the 70's and Randy Amar is from the 80's so our takes are a little different. We only managed to get through 10 - 6 in part one.

I am sure everyone has their own list and I struggled with part of my list. I would love to hear what your list is if you want to email me at: thefreemanreport2@gmail.com or jkfreeman11@cox.net.

Hope you enjoy and as always looking forward to feedback.

The Cuban and the Drifter

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0500

One tried fifteen times to escape Cuba with his wife and young son before they finally made it out on number 16. The other was trying to figure out where he was headed in life when a mentor came to his rescue and gave him direction.

Both are now successful businessmen.

Faith Baudoin & Kelly Carpenter

Wed, 05 May 2021 21:00:00 -0500

Faith is about to graduate from the Welding Program at the ABC Pelican Chapter in Baton Rouge. She is also about to graduate high school. Know what a Hog Dog is? Find out in this episode of The Freeman Report as we also interview Kelly Carpenter, Director of Education at the ABC Pelican Chapter.

Fate and Involvement

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0600

This episode is titled Fate and I believe we all have had circumstances in our lives that may have seen benign at time but may look extraordinary. Where would we have ended up if this or that did not happen. This is part of my journey and what I believe was Fate. I do need to make one correction though - I say in the podcast my Mother passed away in December when in fact she passed away in November of 2020. And I do miss her dearly.

Enjoy

Holistic Nutrition Part 2

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0500

She traveled and lived in several different countries in both Asia and Europe. Now she lives in Bend, OR where she became a Certified Holistic Nutritionist because of illnesses not only with her children, but herself. With conventional medicine not seeming to work she started researching about the foods we eat and what she discovered impacted her life and now she is impacting others. She imparts not only wisdom about healthy eating but also lifestyle changes.

This is Part 2 of my conversation with Krista Zweers on Holistic Nutrition. Also joining us is Camisha Hopkins who led me to Krista during the Seizures podcast.

Holistic Nutrition - Part 1

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 14:00:00 -0500

Two of her children were suffering from seizures and her youngest son had a life threatening tumor in his abdomen. She felt conventional medicine was not helping and so she started a new journey in her life towards holistic nutrition. Hear Krista Zweers' amazing story about how she finally started getting answers to improving and healing her children's health. Also joining in is Camisha Hopkins from the Seizures episode.
This is Part One of Holistic Nutrition.

To learn more about Krista and her mission visit her website:

https://www.nourishrevivethrive.net/

Laurie White Adams

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 14:00:00 -0500

She once cancelled Free Speech Alley as LSU SGA president, perhaps for the first time ever. Now she is running for Metro Council in District 11 in East Baton Rouge Parish.
I also have as a guest host, my daughter, Jamie Freeman.

Regardless of whether or not you live in East Baton Rouge parish I think you will find her views quite interesting.

Mellanie Askew - CEO and Entrepreneur

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 20:00:00 -0500

Mellanie dropped out of high school in the 10th grade to work in the plants around Houston. She even became a pipe fitter but once pregnant she moved into the office where she began to learn computer skills.

Today as the CEO of Coverflex Manufacturing, she is part of a growing trend in the increasing number of women owned businesses.

David Dellucci Former Major League Player

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0500

At every turn he faced adversity but he believed in himself and overcame the obstacles and persevered. The average career of a Major League player is 5.6 years. David Dellucci lasted 13 years. Skip Bertman wanted him to walk on at LSU. Even though he led the SEC in hitting his senior year at Ole Miss he was not drafted until the 10th round. He had a fire within that could not be put out.

Child Seizures

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 20:00:00 -0500

A conversation with Donnie and Camisha Hopkins about their daughter Macie and her seizures. How they found answers in an unlikely place.

Why Am I Doing a Podcast

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Defunding The Police Part II - My Thoughts

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0500

Why Men typically wait until it is too late to go to the Doctor

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 14:00:00 -0500

A conversation with Dr. Curtis Chastain on why men usually wait until it is too late before they go see a doctor.

Defund The Police

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 17:00:00 -0500

Everyone across the country has an opinion about whether to defund or reform the police and this episode is a conversation about where we are headed or where should we go. Pat Englade, former Baton Rouge Police Chief, and Michael Polito, CEO of MAPP, discuss.