Hunger doesn’t stop when the school bell rings - and in Louisville, thousands of children feel that gap every weekend.

In this episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart talks with Kim Holsclaw about the life-changing work of Blessings in a Backpack, a Louisville-founded nonprofit fighting child hunger and food insecurity. Kim shares how the organization began in 2005 and grew into a national program now serving children in 46 states and Washington, D.C., ensuring kids have access to shelf-stable food when school meals aren’t available.

The conversation highlights why community support, volunteers, and local partnerships are essential to feeding students in need - especially in Louisville, where nearly 80,000 children qualify for free or reduced lunch. Kim explains how Blessings in a Backpack delivers food directly to children, how the nonprofit collaborates with schools and organizations, and how listeners can volunteer, donate, and get involved locally to help end childhood hunger.

Learn more at: https://www.blessingsinabackpack.org/

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Connect with host Rosa Hart

In this episode of The Lou Review Podcast, Rosa Hart interviews Dr. Peter Swanz, a naturopathic doctor who also pursues stand-up comedy. Peter shares his journey into comedy, what drew him to the stage, and how humor serves as a powerful tool for connection, creativity, and personal growth. The conversation highlights the courage it takes to step into creative spaces and the unexpected ways different passions can complement one another.

Rosa and Peter also explore Louisville’s vibrant comedy scene, the importance of networking, and the behind-the-scenes work of writing and refining jokes. Peter discusses the challenges of building a sustainable comedy career, the value of flexibility, and the unique “flow state” performers experience on stage, offering insight into the discipline and dedication that comedy requires.

Connect with Dr. Peter Swanz

Find a place to laugh in Louisville: Louisville Laughs

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Connect with Rosa Hart

In this eye-opening episode, Rosa sits down with Matt Hall of Clean Eats to unpack one of Kentucky’s most urgent public health challenges: skyrocketing diabetes and pre-diabetes rates. With 28% of Kentuckians now at least borderline type two diabetic, the conversation dives into how healthier food access, community awareness, and simple habit changes can make a life-saving difference.

Get yours at: https://locations.cleaneatz.com/

Connect with them on socials @cleaneatzlouisville

Rosa also connects these issues to statewide public health efforts through the Our Healthy Kentucky Home initiative—because real health starts where we live, work, worship, and grow.

• 14% of Kentuckians are pre-diabetic.

• 14% of Kentuckians are type two diabetic.

• 28% of the state is at least borderline type two diabetic.

• Diabetes in Kentucky has become a growing pandemic.

• Childhood obesity rates continue to rise.

• Clean Eats is stepping in with healthier, convenient meal options.

• Health awareness and education are crucial in combating diabetes.

• Convenience + affordability = essential for real community health solutions.

• Changing eating habits is vital for long-term health improvement.

• Community-driven initiatives can help reverse the crisis.

• Kentucky ranks 41st for overall health according to America’s Health Rankings (2023).

• According to the 2024 Kentucky BRFSS:

  • 33% of adults are obese

  • 21% get no physical activity outside work

  • 17% smoke

  • 29% report depression

  • 16% have diabetes

  • 18% have heart disease

• These factors reduce quality of life and shorten lifespan.

Explore local public health programs and resources at:
OurHealthyKyHome.ky.gov

Join the movement: #OurHealthyKyHome

• Confronting Kentucky’s Diabetes Crisis

• Health Solutions for a Healthier Kentucky

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Rosa Hart @RosaRaves on your favorite social platforms and follow The Lou Review Podcast wherever you listen.
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