In this episode of Retire Southern, host James Lewis sits down with Coy Bowles — Grammy-winning guitarist, songwriter, and children's author best known for his work with the Zac Brown Band — to explore how music, family, and purpose intersect in a life built on creativity and gratitude.

From his "blue-collar Wonder Years" upbringing in Thomaston, Georgia, to writing hits like Colder Weather and Knee Deep, Bowles shares how his Southern roots shaped his storytelling — and how fatherhood and faith now fuel his passion for inspiring others.

He also opens up about his newest children's book, Every Amazing Story, co-written with Malcolm Mitchell, and his mission to help young readers across Georgia discover the power of imagination and literacy.

In this episode of Retire Southern, we sit down with Kevin Ouzts, founder of The Spotted Trotter, sharing how his entrepreneurial spirit, grit, and dedication to the craft has shaped a slow food legacy with a Southern twist. Learn how he built one of the nation's most respected charcuterie houses with the trademark, New American Charcuterie, and how his story defines what it means in the context of living well in the South.

In this episode of Retire Southern, we sit down with Erica Tuggle, founder of Livin, a meal service that connects professional chefs with busy families for healthy, affordable, home-cooked dinners and gatherings. Recorded inside James and Amanda's home, Erica shares how Livin helps families reclaim their time, build better habits, and support local chefs. If you've ever asked "What's for dinner?" one too many times—this episode is for you.

Charleston doesn't just tell its history—it haunts it. In this episode of Retire Southern, we meet Mike Brown, historian and host of the Pleasing Terrors Podcast and ghost tour. Mike shares how his fascination with Charleston's darker past led to a podcast praised for both its research and atmosphere. From personal paranormal encounters at the Old Jail House to historical truths buried under decades of myth, Mike gives us a front-row seat to the ghost stories that still linger in the Holy City. Listen now to hear how storytelling, history, and hauntings come together in one unforgettable tour.

Cristi Kavanaugh caught her first wave at 38 — and built a business that helps others catch theirs, too. In this episode of Retire Southern, host James Lewis visits Cristi at her St. Simons Island home to talk surfing, custom skimboards, community events, and the much anticipated opening of the KavPar Boardsports storefront. Whether you're a beach lover, parent, or entrepreneur, Cristi's story of confidence and coastal connection will leave you inspired. Catch the full episode and book surf camps at kavparcustoms.com.

Creature Comforts Brewing is a force for good - just like its mission statement. Now an Athens stronghold with direct connections to the University of Georgia, the Brewery started with roots in science and sustainability, with a little curiosity. CEO Adam Beauchamp joins Retire Southern to teach us about how their focus on community impact, sustainability - and of course, making award-winning beer and distilled spirits - creates a lasting impact.

Tom Lewis, founder of the Kids Can Fish Foundation, joins Retire Southern to share how one moment with his daughter turned into a thriving nonprofit helping kids fall in love with fishing. From coast-to-coast camps to the high-stakes Running of the Bulls Charity Surf Redfish Tournament, this episode explores how generosity, mentorship, and family shaped a mission to break down barriers for young anglers of all backgrounds.

Neil "Hondo" Williamson the legendary voice of the Georgia Bulldog radio network, Gregg Russell of Harbour Town Sea Pines Plantation, chef and restaurateur Ford Fry, Cooper Manning of Fox NFL Sunday's "Manning Hour", Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth and so much more. Check out Season 1 of the Retire Southern podcast for authentic experiences and meaningful connections from the heart of the American South.