• 10,000 pounds of fresh produce given away—and they’re just getting started. Let Us Learn is proving that the fight against food insecurity begins in our own backyards.

• In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart interviews Gina Brown (Founder) and Olivia Gamsky (Garden Support Lead) from the non-profit organization Let Us Learn, Inc. Based in Floyd County, Let Us Learn is addressing food insecurity and providing nutrition education through the power of community gardens.

  What began with Gina’s passion for food and volunteering has blossomed into a grassroots movement that combines gardening, teaching, and local connection. Olivia brings her hands-on gardening experience to the table, helping with “all the things” to keep gardens thriving and produce flowing into the community.

  Together, they share how their work is reshaping not just how people eat—but how communities bond and grow stronger.

  The conversation highlights their innovative programs, the joy of teaching children about food and gardening, and the impact of distributing fresh, healthy produce throughout the community.

  This episode shines a light on how food is more than nourishment—it’s a way to teach, connect, and empower. From cooking classes for kids to gardens that bring neighborhoods together, Let Us Learn is proving that grassroots initiatives can transform lives.

  🔗 Learn more or get involved at: letuslearnkyinc.org

  Follow host Rosa Hart as she explores to find the people making a difference @RosaRaves

Join Rosa Hart as she sits down with Tommy Craggs, co-owner of Watch Hill Proper, the largest American whiskey bar in the world. Discover the story behind this internationally recognized bourbon club, located in the heart of Norton Commons, Louisville. Tommy shares insights into the upcoming American Whiskey Fest, the unique concept of Watch Hill Proper, and the journey of building a bourbon-centric haven.

Listen for details about the third annual American Whiskey Fest.

Hear about the vision and creation of Watch Hill Proper by Tommy and his partner Josh. The role of vintage spirit laws in shaping the bourbon industry. Tommy's personal journey and passion for bourbon. The importance of hospitality and service in creating a memorable experience.

Don't miss the American Whiskey Fest on August 16th, 2020, at Norton Commons. Visit Watch Hill Proper's website for more information on events and memberships.

https://www.watchhillproper.com/

Connect with Rosa on Instagram @RosaRaves

Email: info@loureview.com

Learn more about how The Lou Review Foundation Inc. supports the local businesses and nonprofits making Louisville, KY great through The Lou Review podcast:

https://loureview.com/

#Kentucky Bourbon #AmericanWhiskey #Bourbon #WatchHillProper #Louisville

In this special episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with two trailblazing women of Kentucky bourbon: Judy Hollis Jones, CEO of Buzzard’s Roost, and Melissa Rift, Master Taster at Old Forester. Together they hint at whats to come during the premium experience at the KBF 2025, “A Celebration of Women Leaders in Kentucky Bourbon,” a dynamic evening spotlighting the powerhouse women shaping the future of whiskey.

The 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival will be held September 5-7 in Bardstown, KY. There will be 65 particpating distilleries. There are a growing number of women in the bourbon industry, and their panel will provide a dedicated time for networking with others of like-minds.

This all-ladies mix-and-mingle event invites bourbon lovers and curious newcomers alike to meet the women behind the barrel—from CEOs to distillers and master tasters. Guests will enjoy cocktails, tasty bites, and plenty of opportunities for selfies, signatures, and stories you’ll want to sip on.

🎉 Featured Guests at the Event:

• Melissa Rift – Master Taster, Old Forester Distillery

• Marci Palatella – Preservation Distillery + Farm

• Mollie Lewis – New Riff Distilling

• Beth Buckner – Maker’s Mark Distillery

• Alex Castle – Augusta Distillery

• Judy Hollis Jones – CEO, Buzzard’s Roost Whiskies

💬 In this episode, you'll hear:

• The backstories behind Melissa and Judy’s rise in the bourbon industry

• What makes this celebration of women in whiskey so unique

• How Kentucky bourbon culture is evolving thanks to women in leadership

• Sneak peeks into what attendees can expect at this unforgettable event

Whether you're a bourbon buff or just bourbon-curious, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to toast to the women behind the barrels.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and raise a glass to Kentucky’s finest!

In this episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Louisville entrepreneur Dee Dee Taylor, the powerhouse behind 502 Hemp, to discuss her path to opening a wellness-focused business rooted in advocacy, education, and healing. Dee Dee opens up about how her husband’s health challenges inspired her to explore alternative wellness options, ultimately leading her to launch a mission-driven local business.

Dee Dee has been recognized as one of Women Business First's Enterprising Woman Award Winner and the 2024 Public Policy Catalyst by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO).

This conversation dives deep into the evolving legal landscape, the power of community support, and the unique hurdles faced by women in business. Whether you’re curious about natural wellness, interested in entrepreneurship, or passionate about supporting local, Dee Dee’s story will leave you inspired.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Dee Dee Taylor is the founder of 502 Hemp, a wellness center focused on plant-based alternatives and personalized care.

• Her entry into the wellness world was inspired by her husband's struggle with seizures.

• Advocacy is a core part of her mission, especially when it comes to fair legislation and public education.

• She champions local, female-owned businesses and speaks openly about the barriers women still face in male-dominated industries.

• • Real-life success stories from customers drive her passion and keep her going through business and legal challenges.

  • Dee Dee encourages ongoing education to help consumers make informed decisions about wellness products.

  📍Location Highlight:
  502 Hemp is a proudly local business offering guidance and products to help individuals find relief and balance.

  
  

  🔗 Learn more about 502 Hemp
  

  Want to recommend a local business or inspiring entrepreneur for the podcast? Email info@loureview.com

  
  

In this episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Isaiah Dietrich, co-founder of Jubilee Field with his wife Courtney.

Jubilee Field is a new venue space in Louisville’s Meriweather-Fort Hill neighborhood that’s all about building community, sparking joy, and making room for meaningful gatherings.

Isaiah shares the spontaneous and serendipitous journey that led to Jubilee Field’s creation—from his background in real estate to a series of happy accidents that ultimately inspired this unique community hub.

Designed with flexibility and connection in mind, Jubilee Field features a modular layout with a capacity for around 2,000 in the outdoor space, an artistic Gallery indoor venue, and the soon-to-open Field Bar, creating an immersive indoor-outdoor experience for events, food trucks, and neighbors alike.

With intentional infrastructure planning to accomodate multiple food trucks, and a vision for fighting loneliness through shared spaces, Jubilee Field is poised to become a joyful anchor for the community when it opens in August 2025.

In this episode, host Rosa Hart sits down with Libby Gray, attorney and founding partner at Gray Ice Higdon, a Louisville-based law firm built on the principles of inclusion, collaboration, and community. Originally from Minnesota, Libby shares what led her to plant roots in Louisville and how her journey through law school and entrepreneurship shaped the vision for her firm.Together, they explore the vital role legal protection plays for small business owners—especially around intellectual property. Libby breaks down why securing trademarks and patents early is a smart investment, how to avoid costly mistakes, and how her firm is working to make legal support feel approachable and empowering.The conversation also highlights Libby’s passion for mentorship and community involvement, and how Gray Ice Higdon’s new office space was intentionally designed to reflect their commitment to inclusivity and professional growth.💡 Key Takeaways:Libby Gray found her home in Louisville and is now deeply invested in the local business and legal communities.Gray Ice Higdon’s new office space was created with collaboration, comfort, and inclusivity in mind.Intellectual property protection is a must-have for safeguarding a business’s brand, ideas, and growth potential.Early investment in legal counsel can help entrepreneurs avoid future pitfalls.Mentorship and community engagement are core values at Gray Ice Higdon.The firm is building a culture where all employees feel welcome and supported.Legal services for startups should be accessible, not intimidating.Entrepreneurs need to understand the basics of trademarks, patents, and IP rights.Don’t wait—get legal advice early in your business journey.Local connections and community support are key to long-term success.🎧 Tune in and learn how Libby is helping businesses protect what they’re building—while building community at the same time.Find the legal professional you need at:https://grayice.com/

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Janelle Bass, co-owner of Ponyboy, a bourbon cocktail brand in a can. From her roots in voiceover work and bartending to co-founding Ponyboy with her husband Mike, Janelle shares the story of how their whirlwind romance turned into a business venture that’s redefining bourbon culture.Janelle opens up about the challenges and triumphs of creating canned cocktails, the power of storytelling in marketing, and the importance of making bourbon more accessible to a broader audience. She also shares behind-the-scenes moments from their surprise wedding, winning the BevNet competition, and how they’re expanding Ponyboy’s reach beyond Kentucky.Find out more at www.drinkponyboy.comor follow them on Instagram @drinkponyboy Follow host Rosa's adventures on @rosaraves

This episode is made possible by The Lou Review Foundation, Inc.

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Chef Michael Crouch, the celebrated chef at Watch Hill Proper, to explore his inspiring journey from a career in commercial art to becoming one of Louisville’s most creative culinary voices. Chef Crouch opens up about the challenges and rewards of the culinary profession, the importance of inspiration and creativity in avoiding burnout, and how food can be a powerful force for connection within a community.

They dive into the philosophy that guides his work—pushing culinary boundaries while staying grounded in passion, personal enjoyment, and a commitment to community engagement. Chef Crouch also shares insights on Louisville’s vibrant seafood scene, the excitement behind the new summer menu at Watch Hill Proper, and why he feels grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the city’s dynamic food culture.

Key Takeaways:

• 🎨 Chef Crouch transitioned from a background in commercial art to culinary arts, expressing his creativity through food.

• 🔥 The culinary profession is high-pressure but deeply rewarding for those passionate about it.

• 💡 Finding inspiration is crucial for chefs to stay energized and avoid burnout.

• 🏙️ Chef Crouch emphasizes the importance of community in shaping his culinary work.

• 🍽️ He’s committed to pushing culinary boundaries and elevating Louisville’s local food scene.

• 🐟 Louisville boasts a vibrant seafood scene, with fresh options available.

• 💖 Chef Crouch’s food philosophy is centered on passion, joy, and creating meaningful connections through shared meals.

• 🌿 The new summer menu at Watch Hill Proper showcases seasonal ingredients and Chef Crouch’s signature creativity.

• 🙌 Chef Crouch is excited to engage with the community and foster a love for great food.

📍Whether you're a foodie, or just love a good story, this episode is packed with inspiration from one of Louisville’s most inventive minds.

Follow Chef Michael Crouch on Instagram ⁠@chefmjcrouch⁠.

The Lou Review podcast is made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc.

To learn more about our mission to support local, visit LouReview.com.

Follow host Rosa Hart on social media @RosaRaves to see what she discovers next!