Mississippi Moments Podcast

Johnny Balser of McComb remembers how he parlayed skills learned as a railroad worker into support for the Allied effort in Europe during the Second World War.

Belzoni native Thomas Turner reflects on the origins and colorful life of gypsies who mule traded near his home in the early 20th century. 

Mrs. Lamar Hennington, Charles Ainsworth, and Ben Earles reminisce about the days of the gigantic longleaf pine and how an industry altered the land and its people.

Gene Taylor, Reilly Morse, and Diane Peranich shed light on some of the obstacles and issues that surfaced after the storm was over.  (photo of Congressman Gene Taylor, on right).

Tish Williams, Bill Stallworth, and Kurt Brautigam represent the power of determination to survive and conquer in the aftermath.

Michael Hewes, Rachel Williams, and Reverend Lee Adams share similar feelings about the overwhelming power of the storm.

James Harris Jr. and Dr. John Douglas Jr. recall their youthful days buying snacks and swapping stories at the ole country store.

Kenneth O. Williams and Legrand Capers speak of the legacies of the Civil War in Mississippi.

Legrand Capers and Libby Hollingsworth share fond memories of attending traveling variety shows of the early 20th century.

Harry Guin, A.D. Kellar, and Ken Cashion explain how the Stennis Space Center evolved and changed the face of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Chinese Americans Vera Penney Gong, Luck Wing, and John Wing discuss their experiences living outside of a black and white racial identity during segregation in Mississippi.  (photo of students of the only all-Chinese school in Bolivar County, 1938)

Legendary Red Sox Hall of Famer, Boo Ferriss, shares the most memorable experiences of his baseball career, while noting the value and importance of education.

Jobie Martin reminisces about his early career and entering unchartered territory as the first African American to host his own television show in Mississippi.

Korean War veteran Sidney Berry recalls the harsh reality of killing enemy soldiers.  Rodney Duke describes the torture he endured as a prisoner of war.

Kenneth and Jason York discuss the history of the Choctaws and contemporary challenges of retaining their traditional values and culture.

Evelyn Gandy speaks about serving the people and breaking barriers for women during her distinguished legislative career.

Mississippi writer Willie Morris entertains with recollections of a youthful prank, meeting with Robert Frost, and lunch in Greenwich Village.

Shelby Foote and Bell Wiley reminisce about the literary skill and eccentricities of their friend and colleague William Faulkner.

Novelist and historian Shelby Foote discusses his approach to writing, opinion of Jefferson Davis, and friendship with William Faulkner.

Reid Dunn Jr., Sarah Carter, and Brodie Crump recall firsthand the most destructive flood in U.S. history.