Guest Toni Chapman, the Digital Content Manager at Visit Lake Charles, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to find out how to do Lake Charles on a Budget! The trio discusses practical ways to mix free stops, affordable eats, and a few worthwhile splurges into your Southwest Louisiana itinerary.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by Habibis for a flavorful taste of Mediterranean cuisine like shawarma, gyros, hummus in a laid-back convenient location.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guests Jerry “Sarge” Antoine and Ebony Broussard, the co-owners of Bayou Glamping, join hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss how Bayou Glamping helps bridge the gap for those who want to connect with nature without leaving behind household comforts.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by King’s Burgers & More for a nostalgic burger-diner vibe and soft serve classics like shakes and malts.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guest James Smithers, a local birding guide with American Birding Guides, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss Southwest Louisiana’s impressive birding scene that boasts over 400 different species due to unique migration paths. The trio talks about the birding process, some of the birds to look out for and the best times and locations to do so.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by Mazen’s for a fine dining experience that blends Mediterranean flavors with French and Louisiana influences.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guest Ryan Kennedy, Wine Director and Sommelier at Bodega Wine Dive, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the upcoming Louisiana Food and Wine Festival. The date has changed, but the vibes will remain the same! The trio also talks plenty of wine and how to demystify it so you can truly start enjoying wine!

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by Creole Bar & Grill at DoubleTree in Sulphur for a laid-back meal with Cajun and Creole flavor, plus a full bar and live music most weekends.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guest Eric Zartler, the Executive Director of Lake Charles Regional Sports Authority, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the impact of sports on the Southwest Louisiana economy and tourism. Over the next seven weeks, 10 championship events (ranging from Gymnastics and wrestling to baseball and basketball) will prove that Lake Charles is where champions are crowned.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by t'Pot Noir Cajun Kitchen for a taste of Southwest Louisiana food just like grandma makes.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guest Rodney Victorian, the captain of the Iowa Chicken Run, joins hosts Brady and Jillian on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the town’s old-school Mardi Gras tradition. From chasing down chickens and dancing in Iowa yards, to winding down and eating gumbo at the after-party, it’s a Mardi Gras celebration you won’t forget.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by Augustine for an elevated French-inspired take on Southern cuisine, where you’ll find beautifully crafted cocktails and sophisticated flavors tucked away in a stunningly restored historic setting.

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Jillian Corder on Facebook, @JillianCorderKPLC.

Guest Tammy Grant, the President of the Louisiana chapter of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing, joins host Brady and guest host Emily on a special episode Louisiana’s Playground to discuss why Lake Charles is the perfect place for your group to host its next conference, meeting or convention.

Learn more about Visit Lake Charles’ Meeting Incentive Program at https://www.visitlakecharles.org/meetings/incentive-program and pick up our meeting planners guide at https://www.visitlakecharles.org/meetings/meeting-planners-guide.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Guest Zachary Aymond, the head chef at Pujo Street Cafe, joins host Brady and guest host Candy on Louisiana’s Playground to discuss the culinary scene in Southwest Louisiana. The conversation begins with influences and the experience at Pujo Street Cafe and wraps up with Chuck Eats Resturant Week and other projects VLC has planned in 2026.

Find more information on where to eat, things to do, and events happening this weekend at VisitLakeCharles.org.

Stop by Shucks! For their renowned oysters and generous portions of Louisiana seafood in a casual, friendly atmosphere with live music and ample outdoor seating, ensuring every guest is treated like family!

Keep up with hosts Brady Renard on Twitter, @RenardSports and Candy Rodriguez on Facebook, @CandyRodriguezNews.