Shows
The Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastDid Mississippi see a ripple from Tuesday's 'blue wave?Mississippi Today's Michael Goldberg, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance break down last week's special legislative elections, where Democrats gained three seats. Goldberg complains of a dearth of election-night pizza.
2025-11-1020 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHurricane Katrina 20 years later -- the politics, allowing casinos to rebuild onshore and a special Mississippi Today documentaryVeteran editors Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Emily Wagster Pettus recall the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and a monumental special legislative session to address storm recovery 20 years ago. They are joined by multimedia and video editors Michael Guidry and Richard Lake for a preview of "The Bulletin," a Mississippi Today video documentary that will premiere Aug. 29th, the anniversary of the destructive, killer storm. View a trailer of the documentary here.
2025-08-2544 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastRep. Wallace tees up special House committee on Mississippi voters' rightsRep. Price Wallace, a Republican from Mendenhall, is co-chair of a House select committee Speaker Jason White created to tackle restoration of voting rights to former felons, reinstituting voters' right to put issues directly on a ballot and allowing early voting before Election Day. Wallace tells Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance that the work of several special committees over the summer and fall will provide more transparency for the public on legislative work and allows more input on important issues.
2025-07-2135 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSchool choice' chances in 2026 and another Democratic defectionMississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Taylor Vance and Michael Goldberg discuss political news of the week, including House Speaker Jason White announcing "school choice" issues as his top priority for 2026 and perennial U.S. Senate candidate Ty Pinkins departing the Democratic Party.
2025-07-0718 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMega merger: Business, industry groups join forces as Mississippi Business AllianceJohn McKay, chairman and CEO of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association, talks with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison about MMA, the Mississippi Economic Council and the Business and Industry Political Education Committee merging into a single organization to represent business and industry across the state. The new Mississippi Business Alliance is expected to be a powerful voice at the state Capitol in policy and spending decisions and even in statewide elections. McKay, who will lead the new organization, says it expects to be up and running by the beginning of 2026.
2025-06-3033 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi Today welcomes longtime veteran Mississippi journalist Emily Wagster Pettus as its new senior editor.Pettus shares a few war stories with Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender, including her dealings with the irascible former Gov. Kirk Fordice.
2025-05-1217 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastEconomist discusses Mississippi economy's vulnerabilityState Economist Corey Miller talks with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison about the state of the state economy, chances of recession amid trade war, federal spending cuts and state tax overhaul. He declines to answer questions about MSU baseball.
2025-05-0527 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi Democratic legislative leader says GOP bickering prevents work on transformative issuesMississippi House Minority Leader Robert Johnson discusses the 2025 legislative session that was derailed by Republican infighting with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison, and outlines issues he'd like to see addressed in a pending special session.
2025-04-2140 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastTariff trade war, rising costs, immigration: Mississippi Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson discusses challenges facing Mississippi farmersMississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson gives Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Michael Goldberg an update on the challenges facing Mississippi farmers, including the burgeoning trade war with countries that buy our chicken, soybeans, cotton and other products as well as rising costs and immigration/labor issues. Gipson, a man of many hats besides his trademark cowboy one, also discusses his recording an album! "I'll sing at the drop of a hat, even if I drop it myself," Gipson said.
2025-03-3139 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastLawmaker outlines city of Jackson legislative issuesState Rep. Zakiya Summers discusses with Mississippi Today's Anna Wolfe, Maya Miller and Geoff Pender some of the issues the Capitol city of Jackson and the Metro Area face, and legislative priorities to deal with them.
2025-02-0338 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHouse Education Chairman Roberson talks 'school choice,' K-12 funding, consolidation and finding 'things that work'House Education Chairman Rob Roberson, a Republican from Starkville, outlines for Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Michael Goldberg some of the top issues his committee will tackle this legislative session.
2025-01-2730 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi transportation director discusses proposed new gasoline taxMississippi Department of Transportation Director Brad White tells Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance he's staying "in his lane" and out of the politics of a House tax overhaul that would eliminate the income tax and raise sales and gasoline taxes, but that he's pleased lawmakers are trying to address the longrunning need for a steady new stream of money to help cover highway maintenance needs.
2025-01-2028 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastFormer auditor recalls his (authorized) government spending studyFormer Auditor Steve Patterson joins Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender to discuss a government waste study he conducted in the 1990s. Patterson draws contrasts between his 1990s study, which was legally authorized by the Legislature, and a highly scrutinized 2024 study from current Auditor Shad White, who did not get legislative authorization before spending $2 million.
2024-12-3027 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastFitch vs. White vs. Hosemann: What on earth is going on?Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender recap a wild situation in which three prominent Republicans with 2027 gubernatorial ambitions — Attorney General Lynn Fitch, Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and Auditor Shad White — are engaged in an intra-party food fight.
2024-12-1622 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSteve Holland recounts strange events leading to Tupelo-based Netflix crime documentaryMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender talk with former state Rep. Steve Holland about the bizarre case of a Tupelo martial arts instructor mailing ricin to elected officials and attempting to frame an Elvis Presley impersonator for the crime. The episode is now the subject of a Netflix documentary entitled "The Kings of Tupelo: A Southern Crime Saga," which premiers Wednesday. The documentary features details from Holland, whose mother, the late Justice Court Judge Sadie Holland, received the letters, along with former President Barack Obama and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker.
2024-12-0931 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastPrivate school vouchers, teacher pay, teacher shortage: Education advocate outlines likely issues for Mississippi Legislature in 2025 sessionNancy Loome, director of the public education advocacy group The Parents Campaign, outlines major issues for the Mississippi Legislature's 2025 session to Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and the newest member of the politics team, Simeon Gates, who will be covering education issues at the Capitol.
2024-12-0231 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi Hospital Association's Roberson discusses Medicaid expansion outlook under Trump, other 2025 legislative health care issuesRichard Roberson, president and CEO of the Mississippi Hospital Association, tells Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender a new Trump administration would likely approve Mississippi Medicaid expansion work requirements. He says revamping the state's certificate of need laws is likely to be a major issue before lawmakers, and he discusses a new alliance of hospitals that left the MHA and formed a new organization.
2024-11-2536 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi's top election official discusses Tuesday's electionSecretary of State Michael Watson talks with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Taylor Vance ahead of Tuesday's election. He urges voters to remember sacrifices many have made to protect Americans' voting rights and get to the polls, and he weighs in on whether a recent court ruling on absentee vote counting will impact this year's elections.
2024-11-0431 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHow are patients faring with Mississippi's medical marijuana program?Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison get an update on the state's medical cannabis program from Angie Calhoun, founder and CEO of the Mississippi Cannabis Patients Alliance. Calhoun became an advocate for medical marijuana when her son suffered debilitating Lyme Disease symptoms but could not try cannabis treatment in Mississippi. Her alliance provides many resources for patients and practitioners. Go to https://www.mscannapatient.com/.
2024-10-2830 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastA paved road, a push poll, and an uber-political Supreme Court raceMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Geoff Pender, and Taylor Vance discuss three major political news events: the funding of Rep. Trey Lamar's Jackson street replacement, a poll from Speaker Jason White on tax elimination, and a contentious Mississippi Supreme Court race that could come down to the wire.
2024-10-2127 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi Today's investigation of Rep. Trey Lamar's state-funded projectsMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau sits down with politics editor Geoff Pender and reporter Taylor Vance to discuss their new investigation of state-funded projects that benefited Rep. Trey Lamar's neighborhoods. They detail how the story came about and share their key takeaways from the investigation.
2024-10-1443 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastThe push for Mississippi income tax elimination continuesMississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Adam Ganucheau discuss the continued effort to eliminate Mississippi's income tax. They discuss what that could mean for Mississippi and how the process could play out moving forward.
2024-09-3028 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastWho, really, is pushing for an income tax elimination?As Republican lawmakers begin a series of fall hearings to consider an elimination of the individual income tax, Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, and Geoff Pender break down the recent history of tax cut and the politics surrounding the idea.
2024-09-0929 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastState economist: On average, Mississippi economy is stableCorey Miller, state economist and director of Mississippi's University Research Center, gives Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender a briefing on the economic state of the state, unemployment and workforce participation. He also tells a funny economist joke!
2024-09-0236 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastLt. Gov. Hosemann on tax cuts, Medicaid expansion, campaign finance reform, Auditor Shad White and moreLt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann tells Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Taylor Vance the state's financial position should allow for cutting the state's grocery tax next year. He covers numerous other topics and also talks about state Auditor Shad White's political scorched-earth from his new book on the welfare scandal.
2024-08-2647 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastIs anyone not running for Mississippi governor in 2027?The 2027 statewide election might seem far off to most folks, but the Neshoba County Fair made clear that Mississippi politicians are already jockeying to run for higher offices, particularly the governor's seat that will be open. Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance discuss who's looking to make a move for the state's top political offices.
2024-08-1226 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHaley Barbour recalls chaotic 1976 RNC Convention and Mississippi's crucial role in it Former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour talks with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance about the contentious 1976 Republican Convention between Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan. He recalls how he filibustered the media from eavesdropping on members of the Mississippi delegation as they argued by reciting the state's 82 counties forward and backward.
2024-08-0538 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSenate Elections chairman says the public wants early votingSenate Elections Chairman Jeremy England tells Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance that he plans again in the 2025 legislative session to push for in-person early voting and for campaign finance reform — measures he introduced this year that were unsuccessful.
2024-07-2240 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastState Sen. Hob Bryan says roads, drinking water more important than tax cutsState Sen. Hob Bryan, D-Amory, covers a wide array of issues facing the state during an interview with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender. Bryan argues Mississippi's ability to deal with major issues will be stymied if the personal income tax is eliminated as some politicians advocate.
2024-07-0840 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastState Democratic Chair Taylor remains committed to BidenMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender interview Mississippi Democratic Party Chairman Cheikh Taylor about President Joe Biden's debate performance and the future of the Democratic Party in Mississippi. Taylor, a state House member from Starkville, also expressed hope that the Legislature will finally approve Medicaid expansion in the 2025 session.
2024-07-0135 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMississippi GOP Chairman Mike Hurst talks elections, party platformNew Mississippi Republican Party Chairman Mike Hurst talks with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance about November 2024 and 2027 elections, Medicaid expansion and party platform and why state Republicans should celebrate Juneteenth.
2024-06-2432 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastInsurance Commissioner Chaney says creating state health insurance exchange is a win-winMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender interview Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney about the impact of legislation allowing him to create a state exchange where Mississippians can sign up for health insurance instead of doing so on a federal exchange. Chaney said the new exchange would be a positive for the about 250,000 Mississippians on the federal exchange. But Chaney says he will not attempt to create the state exchange unless Gov. Tate Reeves signs off on it.
2024-06-1738 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastA look inside Speaker Jason White's tax cut proposalMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance provide an overview of House Speaker Jason White's plan to cut the state's grocery tax and phase out the income tax. They also break down the select committee White formed to study state taxes.
2024-06-1025 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastPresumptive Medicaid eligibility promises to improve Mississippi's high infant, maternal mortality rates, save taxpayers' moneyCommunity health reporter Sophia Paffenroth discusses with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison a new law set to take effect July 1 that will provide more timely prenatal care via more easily accessed Medicaid health coverage. A majority of Mississippi births are covered by Medicaid, but delays in getting the coverage approval postpones prenatal care for many and negatively impacts the health of mothers and children.
2024-05-2715 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastThe controversial day that Robert Kennedy came to the University of MississippiRetired U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Edward Ellington talks with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender about former U.S. Attorney General Robert Kennedy's speech at the University of Mississippi less than four years after the riots that occurred after the integration of the school. Ellington, who at the time headed the Ole Miss Speaker's Bureau as a law school student, recalls the controversy leading up to the speech. Here is a link to audio of Kennedy's speech: https://egrove.olemiss.edu/rfkspeech/1/
2024-05-2045 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHow the 2024 Medicaid expansion debate diedMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender, and Taylor Vance discuss the breakdown of Medicaid expansion negotiations in the Legislature.
2024-05-0639 min
The Stories That Brought You HereSouth Pender Pioneer Families - Volume 5 with Janet White, recounting the Jennens family storyThis series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea.
Janet, the daughter of Hope and Geoff Jennens, will speak about her family's time living on South Pender. She and her sister, Josephine, had the unique experience of being raised on the island during the 40s and 50s. Janet will share stories about her family's farming activities, the various work her father did, the education she received, and so much more.
This interview h...
2024-04-3035 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastThe contentious final days of the 2024 legislative sessionMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender break down the final negotiations of the 2024 legislative session's three major issues: Medicaid expansion, education funding, and retirement system reform.
2024-04-2933 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastRep. Sam Creekmore says Legislature is making progress on public health, mental health reformsHouse Public Health Chairman Sam Creekmore, R-New Albany, tells Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance he's hopeful he and other negotiators can strike a deal on Medicaid expansion to address dire issues in the unhealthiest state.
2024-04-2236 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMedicaid expansion, other issues could make end of 2024 session chaoticMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance discuss the biggest issues – Medicaid expansion, school funding and PERS – that could spur contentious final days of the 2024 legislative session.
2024-04-1528 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastTitle: Two-thirds majority votes key for Medicaid expansion, restoring initiativeMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance discuss a busy week at the Capitol, where legislators work to garner two-thirds majorities to pass Medicaid expansion and to restore the initiative process. As it turns out, it is the Senate thus far having trouble reaching those two-thirds majorities.
2024-03-1827 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastInside the Medicaid expansion debate at the CapitolMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Sophia Paffenroth, Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Taylor Vance detail the first earnest debate about Medicaid expansion at the Mississippi State Capitol. They discuss what various proposals would do, who is supporting them, who is opposing them, and what might be on the horizon as the debate heats up.
2024-02-2632 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastPreview: What to expect in the 2024 legislative sessionMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance preview the 2024 legislative session. They discuss major issues to watch for during the 120-day session that begins Jan. 2, and they also discuss some potential surprises.
2024-01-0147 min
PenderFundProfiles in Credit – The Annual Sit Down - Geoff Castle and Callum ThomasIn this episode Geoff Castle, Lead Portfolio Manager of Pender's Fixed Income portfolios, hosts Callum Thomas, founder and head of research of Topdown Charts for their annual podcast. Subtitle: Building puzzles. Geoff and Callum reflect on 2023 and review which of their December 2022 calls were right, and which were early. They look ahead to 2024 and really dive into a wide range of topics, both fixed income as well as small-cap equities, commodities and UAPs (formerly UFOs). Is the US government hiding something? Many would regard this as a "must-listen".
2023-12-1448 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastPaul Thorn talks Mississippi, his music, and his careerMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender take a break from political world (kind of) to talk with Mississippi singer/songwriter Paul Thorn about his music and his diverse life's experiences. Thorn grew up in a conservative church before making a mark as a boxer and then a storyteller, writing and singing songs about Americana.
2023-12-1148 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHow will Gov. Tate Reeves get along with legislative leaders?Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance discuss the relationship between Gov. Tate Reeves, Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and likely Speaker of the House Jason White. Will tensions in those relationships affect major policy proposals that will be debated during the 2024 legislative session?
2023-11-2726 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastKey senator says lawmakers will study taxes, health care, other key issues in 2024State Sen. Daniel Sparks, R-Belmont, a key ally of Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann during the recently held statewide elections, discussed a wide range of issues expected to be considered during 2024 legislative session with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance.
2023-11-2035 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastKey takeaways from Tate Reeves' governor's race victoryMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance break down Republican Gov. Tate Reeves' election win over Democratic challenger Brandon Presley. They detail what worked for Reeves, what didn't work for Presley, and whether Mississippi Democrats can be competitive again.
2023-11-1335 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastAt long last, Reeves and Presley will debateGov. Tate Reeves and challenger Brandon Presley will debate on Nov. 1 ahead of the Nov. 7 governor's election. Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender break it all down.
2023-10-3016 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastRep. Robert Johnson: Black turnout could be key in upcoming electionMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance discuss with state Rep. Robert Johnson, the House minority leader, about how the turnout among Black Mississippians could impact the outcome on Nov. 7.
2023-10-2335 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastA debate about the debate about debatesMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender break down the debate about the gubernatorial debates between Gov. Tate Reeves and challenger Brandon Presley. What's happened to this point, and what can voters expect?
2023-10-0920 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastHome stretch: 50 days until Election DayMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender discuss what voters can expect of Gov. Tate Reeves and challenger Brandon Presley in the final 50 days of the 2023 election cycle.
2023-09-1820 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastLikely new speaker renews hope for Medicaid expansionMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance talk all things politics, ranging from House Pro Tem Jason White, expected to be elected new speaker, committing to studying Medicaid expansion. Also discussed this week: communications between Tate Reeves' brother and Auditor Shad White about Brett Favre.
2023-09-1130 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastTakeaways from latest poll that has Tate Reeves ahead of Brandon PresleyMississippi Today's political reporters Geoff Pender, Taylor Vance and Bobby Harrison break down numbers from the most recent Mississippi Today/Siena College poll. Incumbent Republican Gov. Tate Reeves has comfortable 11-point lead, but issues favor Democratic challenger Brandon Presley.
2023-09-0418 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSecretary of State Michael Watson pitches campaign finance reformSecretary of State Michael Watson joins Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance to discuss his ideas for campaign finance reform.
2023-08-2826 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastRecapping the 2023 primary electionsMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, and Geoff Pender break down the results of last week's Republican and Democratic primary elections. Among races discussed: the contentious GOP primary for lieutenant governor, key legislative races, and the GOP primary for governor.
2023-08-1433 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMcDaniel-Hosemann contest headliner for Tuesday's party primaries Mississippi Today political reporters Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Taylor Vance break down Tuesday's election where party nominees will be selected for the Nov. 7 general election. Candidates from the county level to the state level will be on the ballot Tuesday.
2023-08-0720 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastCandidates try to get their message out during hot, contentious Neshoba County Fair Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Taylor Vance break down the candidates' strategy, presentation of their speeches and the crowd's reaction to those speeches at the just-completed the Neshoba Couty Fair.
2023-07-3125 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastWhat ideas do the leading lieutenant governor candidates have?Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, and Geoff Pender discuss the specific issues and ideas that Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and challenger Chris McDaniel are focusing on in their Republican primary campaign.
2023-06-2621 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastGovernor won't answer key questions on campaign donations from welfare scandal playersMississippi Today political reporters Geoff Pender, Taylor Vance and Bobby Harrison talk about Gov. Tate Reeves' decision to hold onto campaign funds from people who have pleaded guilty in connection with welfare scandal and key federal. They also discuss state court rulings that could impact Mississippi elections later this year.
2023-06-1225 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastGov. Ronnie Musgrove talks 2023 governor's race and Brandon Presley's chancesFormer Mississippi Gov. Ronnie Musgrove, the last Democrat in the state to serve in the Governor's Mansion, joins Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender to discuss the wild statewide election year. He shares his views on Brandon Presley, the Democrat vying for the office this year, and what it might take for Presley to defeat Republican Gov. Tate Reeves.
2023-06-0544 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastFAQ: The 2023 lieutenant governor's raceMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison and Taylor Vance break down frequently asked questions about the 2023 lieutenant governor's race. The Republican primary features incumbent Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and state Sen. Chris McDaniel.
2023-05-2933 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastBreaking down Mississippi's glaringly lax campaign finance lawsMississippi Today's Geoff Pender, Bobby Harrison, and Adam Ganucheau break down Mississippi's very loose campaign finance laws. They discuss some recent issues with the laws and nearly complete lack of enforcement of them, why that should matter to voters, and what could be done to improve them.
2023-05-2228 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastOn the ground with Tate Reeves and Brandon PresleyMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau, Geoff Pender and new political reporter Taylor Vance discuss the early days of the 2023 governor's race. They also break down a key campaign finance reporting period that will set the tone for how campaigns try to reach voters.
2023-05-1531 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastLongtime Rep. Tommy Reynolds reflects on his legacyMississippi Today political reporters Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender talk with veteran Rep. Tommy Reynolds, D-Water Valley, about the rules changes that occurred in the 1980s making the Mississippi House more democratic. As a young member of the House, Reynolds played a key role in writing those rules.
2023-04-1742 min
On the SceneThe Killed Ballot InitiativeWait, can they do that? This week on the scene, we discuss the silent killing of the Mississippi ballot initiative bill by state legislators. In Emma’s Opinion Corner, she reviews The French Dispatch (2021) on HBO Max, we talk middle names, and Emma reviews Totino’s party pizza in Fine Dining with Emma Dotson. See what Heather has been reading Heather’s book recs, “Books on the Brim,” and finish off the episode with some good news for Golden Triangle soccer players!
Sources:Mississippi Today article by Geoff PenderMississippi Today voter pollMississippi Free Press ar...
2023-03-3025 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastJackson lawmaker: Water takeover, HB 1020 would hurt not helpMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender talk with Rep. Zakiya Summers, D-Jackson, about how legislative leaders are trying to address issues dealing with crime and water in Jackson without getting input from lawmakers who represent the capital city. She laments how legislation is taking power from Jackson residents and their elected representatives and is causing more harm than good.
2023-02-2034 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastThe surprising Medicaid expansion and governor's race poll resultsMississippi Today's politics team Adam Ganucheau, Bobby Harrison, and Geoff Pender break down some key results from a new Mississippi Today/Siena College poll. The team focuses on an overwhelming percentage of Mississippians who support expanding Medicaid and who want a new governor in 2023.
2023-01-2347 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastBo Eaton reflects on his infamous tied 2015 electionBo Eaton of Taylorsville says he still has the swizzle stick that he drew after his tie election with Mark Tullos of Raleigh in their 2015 bid for the House District 97 post. Eaton drew the winning stick in the unusual process that is spelled out in state law to decide tie elections, but the Republican majority seated their fellow party member, sending Eaton a five-term House veteran home. Eaton catches up on politics with Mississippi Today political reporters Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison.
2022-12-2630 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastWays and Means Chair Lamar wants to use surplus to phase out income taxRep. Trey Lamar, who plays a pivotal role in setting tax policy as chair of the Ways and Means Committee, tells Mississippi Today political reporters Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender that he would prefer eliminating the income tax instead of providing a tax rebate during 2023 session.
2022-12-1934 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSpeaker Philip Gunn calls it quitsMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender analyze Speaker of the House Philip Gunn's decision to step down and not seek reelection to the House. Among topics they discuss: What will this decision mean for the 2023 legislative session, what is Gunn's legacy, who may replace him, and what will he do next?
2022-11-2817 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastLawmaker: Aluminum mill project is great, but other issues must be addressedRep. Kabir Karriem, D-Columbus, talks with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender about the positive impact on the Golden Triangle and the state of the new Steel Dynamics aluminum mill coming to Lowndes County after a special session where legislators approved $246 million in incentives for the project. But Karriem added the Legislature needs to address other issues now, such as fixing Jackson water woes, improving health care in the state and restoring voting rights to people convicted of felonies.
2022-11-0729 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastWeed, trash, settlements: A big news week in MississippiMississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender break down an extraordinarily busy news week in the state. Topics covered: Medical marijuana drama, Katrina insurance case settlements, Jackson water woes and a conundrum about garbage collection.
2022-10-1028 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastCan federal, state and local officials work together to solve Jackson's water woes? Mississippi Today's Alex Rozier, Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison discuss future of Jackson's beleaguered water system, will it be fixed and what that fix might look like. It seems the federal government through the Environmental Protection Agency is on board for the long-haul fix. Will the state be?
2022-10-0334 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastMedical marijuana could hit the shelves in OctoberMelvin Robinson, the executive director of the Mississippi Cannabis Trade Association, joins Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender to discuss updates on the state's rollout of its medical marijuana program.
2022-08-2924 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastDem leader urges Gov. Reeves to reconsider ending rental assistance programSen. Derrick Simmons of Greenville, the Senate Democratic leader, discusses with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender ways he says the state can help improve the lives of working poor Mississippians.
2022-08-1531 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSen. Boyd: Postpartum Medicaid extension support in Senate near unanimousNicole Akins Boyd, R-Oxford, a first-term state senator, talks with Mississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison about ways to improve the lives of mothers and children in light of the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade. She is chairing the nine-member Senate Study Group on Women, Children and Families created by Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann.
2022-08-0834 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastNeshoba County Fair political speakings filled with fire and brimstone and questions about state welfare scandal Mississippi Today political reporters Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender recap what was a more eventful Neshoba County Fair political speakings than what normally occurs in off-election years. A lot of the talk centered around the overturn of Roe v. Wade and questions from the media about the ongoing scandal that has engulfed the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
2022-08-0122 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastInvestigative reporter Anna Wolfe discusses explosive welfare case updateInvestigative reporter Anna Wolfe joins Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender to discuss a dramatic legal development in the state's ongoing welfare scandal case. The trio also break down where the investigation sits today and where it may be headed.
2022-07-1833 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastThe many unanswered questions about abortion in MississippiMississippi Today reporters Isabelle Taft, Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison discuss issues related to abortion and health care in Mississippi in light of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision saying abortion is no longer a protected right under the federal Constitution. But importantly, how does the 1998 state Supreme Court decision saying there is a right to an abortion factor into the new world created by the overturning of Roe v. Wade on the federal level?
2022-07-1134 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastA wild week of historic election outcomes and court rulingsMississippi Today political reporters Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison discuss the results of the U.S. House party primary runoff elections where an unusual event occurred and also discuss some surprising twists in the aftermath of the landmark reversal of Roe. v. Wade.
2022-07-0424 min
The Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastState Rep. John Hines discusses welfare scandal, Jan. 6 committeeMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender talk litany of issues with state Rep. John Hines, D-Greenville, ranging from Gov. Tate Reeves' partial vetoes to Medicaid expansion to the scandal at the Department of Human Services.
2022-06-2032 min
The Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastDr. Thomas Dobbs discusses his tenure as State Health OfficerState Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs has been the face of Mississippi's COVID-19 response. Mississippi Today reporters Bobby Harrison, Geoff Pender and Will Stribling spoke with Dr. Dobbs about his tenure at the health department, the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization abortion case, and what comes next for him after he leaves the health department in July.
2022-05-3029 min
The Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSen. Hob Bryan discusses 2022 legislative sessionMississippi Today reporters Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender interview – or more accurately listen – as longtime state Sen. Hob Bryan of Amory vents about massive tax cuts passed in the 2022 legislative session. Bryan says the state has too many infrastructure, education and other needs to be making such huge cuts in revenue.
2022-05-0231 min
On the SceneThe RaiseEver wonder what the leaders in Mississippi make?
Some higher-ups are actually predicted to get a raise over the next couple of years! Find out who that includes this week on the scene. In Emma’s Opinion Corner, she reviews season 1 of “Search Party” (2016) streaming on HBO Max, has a hot take about paper straws, rates her hot tea of the week, and reviews two items from her Trader Joe’s haul in Fine Dining with Emma Dotson.
Mississippi Today article by Geoff Pender, House Bill 1426
MS Today article by Geoff Pender
Medical marijuan...
2022-04-1432 minOn the SceneThe Involved KingWhat’s it like to be one of the most involved students on campus? Ask Cameron Mayers! This week on the scene, we interview Cameron and dive into his involvement with the Student Association, Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, TheatreMSU, and NAACP at MSU. In Emma’s Opinion Corner, she reviews “Turning Red” (2022) streaming now on Disney+, she has a hot take about celebrities doing voice acting, and she rates her hot teas of the week in our newest segment, “Fine Dining with Emma Dotson.”
Roger Ricker to vote against Supreme Court Justice nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson by WLOX Staff for WLBT
Macon C...
2022-03-3146 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastSen. Angela Hill discusses 'Buddy's Law,' tension at CapitolState Sen. Angela Hill, a Republican from Picayune, joins Mississippi Today's Adam Ganucheau and Geoff Pender to discuss her bill, a proposal seeking to create "Buddy's Law," to provide mental health resources to minors who abuse animals. She also discussed tension between GOP leaders during the 2022 legislative session.
2022-03-1425 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastTax cut fight remains top legislative issueMississippi Today's Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison discuss a "crazy" deadline week for the Mississippi Legislature that included a six-hour debate on critical race theory, a stare-down between House and Senate leaders on teacher pay and the constant undercurrent caused by Speaker Philip Gunn's obsession with eliminating the personal income tax.
2022-03-0722 minOn the SceneThe PresidentsEver wondered what it’s like to be MSU’s Student Body President?
Wonder no more! This week on the scene we welcomed guests current SBA President Garrett Smith and current VP/future President Kennedy Guest on the show to tell all. Listen to learn about the many benefits of the job, tough decisions that are made, and the massive amount of hard work that goes into making MSU a better place for all!
MSU updates its mask policy
MS Senate passes teachers’ pay bill by Geoff Pender and Bobby Harrison for Mississippi Today
Magnol...
2022-03-051h 04On the SceneNPR Contest Entry: Medical Marijuana in MSThis week on the scene, we have a mini episode that gives you a rundown on the history and the future of medical marijuana in MS for NPR’s podcast contest! Emma also offers a hot take about books she believes should be banned.
Decriminalization of marijuana in MS by Hank Klibanoff for The Washington Post
Medical cannabidiol oil was legalized for people experiencing intractable epilepsy by Larrison Campbell for Mississippi Today
MS legalizes CBD for the general population by Patrick Lynch for Way of Leaf
Recent updates from Mississippi Today written by Geoff Pe...
2022-02-1011 minOn the SceneThe Student BillHave you ever struggled with your mental health?
You’re not alone. In fact, one of the most pressing issues for student wellness is mental health at MSU. This week on the scene, we talk to Student Association Senator Josh Riggs about the actions he and other SA members are taking to make mental health a priority. In Emma’s Opinion Corner, she reviews MSU Film’s short film "Old Main" (2022) streaming now their website linked below, and things get spicy with a hot take about which sport is more difficult: soccer or football.
Redistricting update by Tyl...
2022-02-0335 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastInside the 'daunting' task that is legislative redistrictingMississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender get the lowdown on redistricting from Rep. Jim Beckett, who is handling the task in the Mississippi House. Beckett is putting together a consequential puzzle: redrawing the 122 House districts to match population shifts found in the 2020 Census.
2022-01-3119 min
PenderFundPM Amar Pandya & the Pender Alternative Arbitrage FundIn this episode Geoff Scott, Senior Vice President, Investments, chats with Amar Pandya, Portfolio Manager of the Pender Alternative Arbitrage Fund. Together they will introduce the Fund and dive into the investing strategies behind the Fund, the opportunities that Amar sees on the horizon and the overall Fund positioning. They also explore the risk management and return strategies for the Fund, in particular Pender's unique expertise and track record in identifying and analyzing M&A catalysts. Amar closes the podcast with a book recommendation.
2021-09-2327 min
PenderFundPM Justin Jacobsen & the Pender Alternative Absolute Return FundIn this episode Geoff Scott, Senior Vice President, Investments, chats with Justin Jacobsen, Portfolio Manager of the Pender Alternative Absolute Return Fund. Together they discuss Justin's background in investing, his shift from equity to credit and introduce the Pender Alternative Absolute Return Fund. Geoff and Justin dive into the investing strategies behind the Fund, the opportunities that Justin sees on the horizon and the current market environment. They also explore the details of some of the external variables the Fund may be subjected to and talk about the risk management and return strategy for the Fund. The podcast ends...
2021-09-1627 minThe Other Side: Mississippi Today's Political PodcastAre state leaders prepared to make best use of billions in federal coronavirus-relief funds? State Rep. Robert Johnson of Natchez, the House Democratic leader, expresses concerns during an interview with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender that state leaders are not taking adequate steps to determine best way to spend about $6 billion coming to various governmental entities in Mississippi from the American Rescue Plan.State Rep. Robert Johnson of Natchez, the House Democratic leader, expresses concerns during an interview with Mississippi Today's Bobby Harrison and Geoff Pender that state leaders are not taking adequate steps to determine best way to spend about $6 billion coming to various governmental entities in Mississippi from the American...
2021-08-0931 min
OB PODEp. 12 Spring Football In The AirEpisode Notes
This week OB Pod has a fun episode lined up for you. We start the episodes off with our motivational message like we do each and every week, this is a much needed one. It really helps you put things into perspective. We then go on letting you know that we are going to have Mayoral Candidates, Don Hall and Ken Adams on in two weeks to discuss their candidacy. We want questions from you! It is important that we have answers to questions from our citizens! You can email us at TheOBPodcast@gmail.com...
2021-05-171h 15
PenderFundPender's New Look Bond UniverseIn this episode Sarah Wildman, Director of Institutional & Family Office Wealth Services, sits down with Geoff Castle and Emily Wheeler, Portfolio Manager and Associate Portfolio Manager respectively of the recently launched Pender Bond Universe Fund. They discuss the new Fund, introduce Emily and highlight her experience, and talk about the current credit market and where both managers see opportunities.
2020-02-2025 min
PenderFundMeet PM Geoff CastleMeet Geoff Castle, Portfolio Manager of the Pender Corporate Bond Fund, who recently celebrated his third anniversary managing the Fund. On this episode, David Barr, Pender's President, chats with Geoff about his background, and how his previous experiences tie into his outlook on credit markets and his approach to portfolio management. They discuss how he navigates the challenges and opportunities within fixed income, as well as how the market has changed in the past three years. Geoff also shares more about his strategies for capital preservation as a bond manager and where he sees future opportunities. Tune in to...
2018-11-0831 min
TatterEpisode 28: Magnolia In Bloom (Mississippi Politics)ABOUT THIS EPISODE
The recent confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh's appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court--despite vocal and forceful opposition by many people--attests to the importance of being the majority party in the U.S. Senate. Democrats are currently in a narrow minority, and their path to control runs through Senate seats currently held by Republicans, many of which are in rural, agrarian states. One such state is Mississippi, and one such race features Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith and Democrat Mike Espy, among others. The election is likely to go to a runoff, and if control of the Senate...
2018-10-1526 min
Oral ArgumentEpisode 36: Firehose of EqualityThe Supreme Court this week handed down a series of landmark non-decisions. We talk with PhD candidate and commentator Anthony Kreis about the confusing, hopeful, exciting, promising, uncertain, and evolving state of marriage equality. In the wake of a (so far) uniform wave of appellate court decisions striking down gay-marriage bans, the Supreme Court steps in and … lets them stand without taking them up for decision. Why? And what is the state of law? What is likely to happen, and what are local officials to do? (And if you’re in a position to hire a Visiting Assistant Professor or F...
2014-10-111h 39