The Real Hernando

Hosted by Derrick Michaud

Entrepreneurship Society Culture

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Episodes

111

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to The Real Hernando, brought to you by Shelby Row Productions. The Real Hernando is a podcast created to highlight our amazing local community here in Hernando, Mississippi, and in particular, the local non-profit organizations and ministries.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 14, 202646 min

Neil Colley on the Fancy Nancy Foundation, Local Yokel's Podcast & a Jeep Rubicon Raffle for House of Grace

Host Derrick welcomes Neil Colley, founder of the Fancy Nancy Foundation and host of the Local Yokel's podcast, to spotlight how the foundation—created in honor of Neil’s mother, Nancy Colley—supports DeSoto County nonprofits through fundraising initiatives like vehicle raffles. Neil discusses the current $20-per-ticket raffle of a customized 2013 Jeep Rubicon raising money for House of Grace, a domestic violence shelter serving the region, with discounts for multi-ticket bundles and a drawing planned after 5,000 tickets sell, followed by a local giveaway event. He shares how his work grew from supporting Feed My Lambs and how podcasting helps connect organizations, resources, and community leaders, including examples of real connections made through show clips.Sponsored in part by Electrical Repair and InstallationThe Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

May 28, 202651 min

Angela Kidd Insurance: Medicare, Marketplace & Life Insurance Made Simple

The Real Hernando podcast, presented by Thrive Entertainment and produced by SRP Studios Podcasting, spotlights Angela Kidd of Angela Kidd Insurance, specializing in Medicare, under-65 health insurance/healthcare.gov plans, and life insurance. Angela discusses how her Southaven brick-and-mortar office (8830 Center Street, Suite 1) has helped clients—especially seniors—by providing trusted, in-person guidance, while still offering phone and home visits. She explains annual enrollment timelines (Medicare Oct 15–Dec 7; marketplace Nov 1–Dec 15), warns about carrier changes like Cigna leaving the marketplace in 2027, and describes how income updates can prevent subsidy payback at tax time. Angela shares stories of correcting Medicare Advantage network mistakes, navigating claims, avoiding Medicare enrollment penalties, and offering final expense and supplemental protections for costs insurance doesn’t cover.The Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

May 12, 202647 min

Garvin Keen | Former Horn Lake Band Director and a LegalShield Associate, DreamScape Consulting

Host Derrick welcomes Garvin Keen, a LegalShield associate (DreamScape Consulting), to spotlight how LegalShield provides affordable legal support and IDShield identity protection through a monthly membership that connects members to a dedicated law firm (William Anderson & Farrah for Mississippi and Alabama) with attorney callbacks typically within four hours. Garvin shares his personal motivation for helping people understand and use their rights, contrasts LegalShield with relying on friends or online searches, and explains IDShield features including private investigators who can assume power of attorney to resolve identity issues, plus privacy and reputation guidance. The conversation also covers Garvin’s DeSoto County history as a Horn Lake band director (1990–2005), local band culture and growth, Amro Music, reunions, and how DeSoto County has changed over the past two decades.The Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

May 12, 202647 min

Brandon Gustafson | Gustafson Properties Spotlight: Custom Home Building, Renovations & Badger PMD

The Real Hernando podcast invited Brandon Gustafson and Gustafson Properties, a North Mississippi custom home builder with over 20 years of experience, Certified Graduate Builder designations, 100% Hardy Homes, and a 10-year structural warranty. Co-owner Brandon Gustafson discusses the company’s family roots, their Hernando, Monteith Ave office, and their expanding “one-stop” approach through relationships with architects, lenders, and real estate. He explains their process from discovery call through pre-construction, common misconceptions like timelines, and growing demand for renovations as homeowners use equity for upgrades. Brandon also shares homebuilding trends such as outdoor living spaces and safe rooms, the importance of builder credentials, and introduces his separate construction management software Badger PMD, including plans to integrate AI for design mockups and estimating.The Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

May 5, 202643 min

Denise McElhaney Returns | Happy Hounds Updates, Pet Pantry Palooza, and a New Kids Camp

Derrick Michaud relaunches The Real Hernando 2.0 from a new downtown studio and welcomes back Denise McElhaney of Denise’s Happy Hounds for her third appearance. Denise recaps her luxury dog grooming and pet concierge services, her retail area “The Pampered Pik,” and highlights long-term trust-building success stories with difficult rescue dogs. She discusses winning DeSoto’s Best again, the need to expand into a larger space with a fenced yard, and her community efforts through the Happy Hounds Pet Pantry blessing box at 2008 Oak Tree Cove, including issues with hoarding and adding cameras. Denise also reviews the growth of Pet Pantry Palooza and announces “Little Paw Academy,” a kids camp teaching safe, kind animal interaction at the DeSoto Agricenter, seeking volunteers, plus a third anniversary celebration on May 11 at 11:30.The Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

May 4, 202631 min

The Real Hernando Returns: New Studio, New Chapter

The Real Hernando podcast returns after a long pause caused by personal challenges in 2025, including a leg injury from a cannonball at Coach Camp’s pool, the end of Wesley Meadows’ three-year presenting sponsorship, and a studio transition from Big Note Music Lessons to a new location at 2375 Memphis Street behind Fratello’s near the square. The host, Derrick, explains the show’s origins with Robert Carter and how the podcast, launched in February 2022, helped introduce his business to the community while keeping content positive and nonpolitical. With no current sponsors, the format is free to evolve as he rebuilds momentum, banks new interviews, and expands to feature businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders across the area, starting next with Denise McElhaney of Denise’s Happy Hounds. Coach Camp is reintroduced as a retired Memphis firefighter/paramedic, EMS professor at Southwest Tennessee Community College, podcaster, and growing motivational speaker, and they also promote their show Cannonballing Life.The Real Hernando is on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram and TikTokThis episode was recorded at SRP Studios and Produced by Shelby Row Productions LLCSRPStudiosLLC.com

November 3, 202544 min

HYPE: Connecting Hernando’s Next Leaders with Head Chair, Jonathan Hooker and Co-Chair, Dr. Danton Dye

In this inspiring episode of The Real Hernando Podcast, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon shine the spotlight on HYPE – Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs. Founded in 2023, HYPE’s mission is to empower and connect young professionals throughout the Hernando area, building a strong support network for growth and success. Guests Jonathan Hooker and Dr. Danton Dye join the show to share the organization’s origin story, the vision of the new board of directors, and how HYPE continues to provide meaningful value to its members. They discuss the power of in-person networking, leadership development, and what the future looks like for this dynamic organization shaping Hernando’s next generation of leaders.The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.Also Sponsored In-Part:Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter InsuranceDesoto Local95.3 The RebelAngela Kidd InsuranceCity Hall CheesecakeDesoto Arts CouncilPok Cha’s Egg RollsMotivate with Coach CampDenise’s Happy HoundsTadpool Swim SchoolBig Note Music LessonsFor all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

October 23, 202556 min

It Takes a Village: Hernando’s Heartbeat

In this heartwarming episode of The Real Hernando, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon dive into what it truly means to be a good villager — showing up, getting involved, and supporting the people and places that make Hernando special. They share stories, laughs, and inspiration while running through a lineup of exciting community events you won’t want to miss!Upcoming Hernando Events:🎬 Saturday, 10/25/2025 – 6:00 PM (Open for Seating) – Movie Night at Lee’s Summit Park💡 Tuesday, 10/28/2025 – 5:30 PM–6:30 PM – Panola Street Lights Unveiling (Chamber)🍸 Thursday, 10/30/2025 – HYPE Social at Fratello’s (Hernando’s Young Professional Entrepreneurs)🇺🇸 Tuesday, 11/11/2025 – 10:00 AM – Hernando Veterans Parade🏆 Tuesday, 11/18/2025 – 11:30 AM – Celebrate Hernando: Annual Awards Gala (Chip speaks at The Gin, 931 Nesbit Rd.)🦃 Thursday, 11/20/2025 – 10:30 AM – Young at Heart Thanksgiving Luncheon (Gale Center)🎄 Dickens of a Christmas Weekend (11/21–11/23/2025): ✨ Friday, 11/21 – 6:00–8:30 PM – Christmas Tree Lighting, Ice Skating & Movie (Chamber Event) 🎁 Saturday, 11/22 – 9:00 AM–5:00 PM – Dickens of a Christmas Festival 🏠 Sunday, 11/23 – 1:00–5:00 PM – Hernando Christmas Open House🎅 Monday, 12/1/2025 – 6:30 PM – Hernando Christmas ParadeDerrick and Lauren remind listeners that being part of a community is more than just living in it—it’s about showing up, lending a hand, and celebrating together. Tune in to get inspired and mark your calendars for all the local fun ahead!The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.Also Sponsored In-Part:Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter InsuranceDesoto Local95.3 The RebelAngela Kidd InsuranceCity Hall CheesecakeDesoto Arts CouncilPok Cha’s Egg RollsMotivate with Coach CampDenise’s Happy HoundsTadpool Swim SchoolBig Note Music LessonsFor all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

October 7, 202552 min

Empowering Local Youth: Meagan Qualls & Macy Forsythe, Cotillion Social

Today, we are spotlighting Cotillion Social. Their mission is to empower local youth through a transformative cotillion experience that fosters emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and respectful social interaction.By blending traditional etiquette with modern social-emotional learning, they aim to cultivate confident, compassionate, and socially responsible young individuals who are prepared to thrive in diverse environments and form meaningful relationships.www.cotillionsocial.comThe Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.Also Sponsored In-Part:Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter InsuranceDesoto Local95.3 The RebelAngela Kidd InsuranceCity Hall CheesecakeDesoto Arts CouncilPok Cha’s Egg RollsMotivate with Coach CampDenise’s Happy HoundsTadpool Swim SchoolBig Note Music LessonsFor all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com

September 23, 202550 min

Behind the Voices: Get to know Derrick & Lauren

On this special episode of The Real Hernando, hosts Derrick Michaud and Lauren McLendon flip the script and let listeners get to know them better. From their biggest historical influences to their favorite movies, pet peeves, and the most positive memories of 2025, Derrick and Lauren share personal insights and plenty of laughs. They also imagine the perfect day of showing off Hernando to a first-time visitor — highlighting the local spots they’d never skip.The Real Hernando Podcast is presented to you by Wesley Meadows Retirement Community and SRP Studios Podcasting.Also Sponsored In-Part:Brandon Vanderburg with Shelter InsuranceDesoto Local95.3 The RebelAngela Kidd InsuranceCity Hall CheesecakeDesoto Arts CouncilPok Cha’s Egg RollsMotivate with Coach CampDenise’s Happy HoundsTadpool Swim SchoolBig Note Music LessonsFor all channels and socials, go to http://TheRealHernando.com🎙️ This is an SRP Studios Production - SRPStudiosLLC.com