#91 - Children's Advocacy Center - Jessica Bryant & Mindy Toups

#93 - Dr. Emily Jones - Mental Health

Dr. Emily Jones joins The 318 Experience for an important conversation about mental health, trauma, and healing. As Clinical Director for Therapeutic Services, a counselor, supervisor, educator, and trauma-informed practitioner, Emily helps individuals and families navigate life's challenges through connection and support. In this episode, we discuss what mental health really is, common reasons people seek counseling, the impact of trauma on individuals and families, the difference between Big T and little t trauma, nature versus nurture, and why trauma-informed care is so important. Emily also shares insights into specialized therapy approaches and the mental health resources available through The Center for Children & Families. This episode offers practical information, encouragement, and a reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength.

#92 - Roderick Rod Williams - Guidance LLC - Former NFL/CFL Athlete

Roderick “Rod” Williams joins The 318 Experience to share his incredible journey from the south side of Monroe to professional football and successful entrepreneurship. A former Richwood High School standout, All-American at Alcorn State, and NFL/CFL athlete, Rod opens up about the challenges of professional sports, transitioning into business, and building Guidance LLC into a company serving hundreds of families across Northeast Louisiana. We discuss mental health, leadership, technology, investing, community impact, and why so many people in Louisiana are carrying stress today. Rod also reflects on being nominated for the 2026 T.H. Scott Award of Excellence and what it means to create opportunities for others in the community he’s always called home.

#91 - Children's Advocacy Center - Jessica Bryant & Mindy Toups

In this episode of The 318 Experience, we sit down with Jessica Bryant and Mindy Toups from the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeast Louisiana to discuss the vital role the CAC plays in supporting child victims and their families. Jessica and Mindy share their personal journeys into this work, what a forensic interview really looks like, and how the CAC provides a unified, trauma-informed approach that reduces stress and protects dignity during incredibly difficult situations. We also dive into the importance of community awareness, prevention, and how everyday people can play a role in protecting children. This is a meaningful and eye-opening conversation about impact, resilience, and hope.

#90 - Soda Jerk - Teal Hoffman

Teal Hoffman, owner of Soda Jerk, joins The 318 Experience to share the journey behind her business—one that began with a calling at just 16 years old. After spending years as a stay-at-home mom and navigating personal challenges, Teal found herself stepping into entrepreneurship at exactly the right time. What started as a leap of faith with her sister quickly turned into a business embraced by the entire community. In this episode, Teal talks about building a brand that’s fun and welcoming, leading with authenticity, breaking free from the competition mindset, and what it really looks like to trust the timing of your life. This conversation is for anyone waiting on their moment—and wondering if it will ever come.

#89 - Verbon R Muhammed Sr. - Monroe City Council Vice Chairman

In this episode of The 318 Experience, Brian sits down with Monroe City Council Vice Chairman Verbon Muhammad, Sr. for a powerful conversation about leadership, community, and the future of Monroe. Verbon shares his journey from growing up in South Monroe to building a 30-year career with Greyhound and eventually stepping into public service. The conversation dives into the realities behind city leadership — from infrastructure challenges and economic development to the deeper issues of crime, education, and community responsibility. They explore the importance of housing, the need for economic growth across all districts, and why improving quality of life requires more than government — it requires people. This episode is honest, thoughtful, and focused on solutions — highlighting what it takes to move a community forward. 00:00 Intro 01:05 Growing Up in South Monroe 04:26 From Band to Business Mindset 08:17 30 Years at Greyhound 12:52 Why He Chose Public Service 24:24 Fixing Schools & Resources 31:18 Stepping Into City Council 37:20 The Truth About Growth 40:05 Housing: The Real Challenge 44:32 Crime & Community Solutions 52:00 Social Media, Culture & Youth 57:40 Economic Development & Opportunities 01:05:40 Quality of Life: Parks, Zoo & Community 01:11:18 Leadership, Conflict & Moving Forward 01:20:00 Unity, Mindset & Community Growth 01:28:36 Final Thoughts & Call to Action