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She was sworn in as the first pediatrician to lead the Medical Association of the State of Alabama in 20 years — and only the second woman of color to hold the role since Dr. Regina Benjamin, who went on to become U.S. Surgeon General. In this episode of Living It Up with Lenise, Dr. Nina Ford Johnson opens up about the moment her father administered her oath of office, the physician shortage reshaping care across Alabama, and why she believes "if you are not at the table, you are the meal being served." We talk infant mortality, rural healthcare access, the billion-dollar conversation around weight and GLP-1s, and what it means to raise three kids while leading a statewide medical association. Dr. Johnson shares the loss that first pointed her toward medicine, the mentor who told her she could do it when she doubted herself, and the one health habit she'd prescribe to every person in Alabama. It's a conversation about service, legacy, and remembering that everybody is somebody's child.

Of the 40 monuments on the National Mall, zero are dedicated to American women's history. Anna Laymon is trying to change that. Anna leads the Women's Suffrage National Monument Foundation, the organization authorized by Congress to build the first monument honoring women's history on the National Mall — and she's doing it while living right here in Fairhope and commuting to D.C. In this conversation, Anna and Lenise talk about the fight to get this monument approved, the campaign inviting everyday Americans to submit their own ideas for what it should be, and the women — known and unknown — whose stories deserve a place in stone. It's a conversation about legacy. About the grandmothers who never got their names written down. About what it means for a little girl to walk the National Mall one day and finally see herself. Learn more or submit your own Monumental Idea at womensmonument.org.

In this episode of Living It Up with Lenise, we tee it up with Frances Brown — a Mobile, Alabama native who made history as a four-time individual state golf champion before ever setting foot on a college campus. Now a freshman at Auburn University competing in the SEC, Frances brings her A-game and her signature jalapeño humor to the conversation. We talk about what it's like to grow up literally living on a golf course, the mental discipline it takes to defend a championship four years in a row, and how she's navigating the jump from hometown legend to college athlete. Frances also opens up about her dream round at Augusta National, why she chose journalism as a second calling, and the one philosophy her dad instilled in her that has carried her through it all — just have fun. Whether you're a lifelong golf fan or you've never picked up a club, this one is for you. Frances Brown is the real deal, and her story is just getting started.

She is a fifth-generation Alabama farmer, the founder of a soil testing company now on shelves in every Lowe's in the country, and she is running to become the first woman ever elected as Alabama's Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries. Christina McInnis joins me on this episode of Living It Up with Lenise for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about what's really happening in Alabama agriculture — from an outdated farm bill and SNAP spending priorities to Chinese ownership of American farmland. Christina shares her journey from growing up in Elberta to building AgriTech Corp and SoilKit, her vision for pairing Alabama's 29 million annual tourists with our $77 billion agriculture industry, and why she believes the questions we should be asking are simple: Is this good for the Alabama farmer? And is this good for our children? She also opens up about the personal cost of running for office as a woman — including a threatening predator who targeted her family — and the generational strength that keeps her going.

The Oscars are right around the corner, and I brought reinforcements! In this episode of Living It Up with Lenise, I'm teaming up with an evening TV producer and a fellow podcaster to break down the 2026 Academy Award nominations. We're debating the heavy hitters — from the Best Picture race between One Battle After Another, Sinners, and Hamnet to a stacked Best Actor category featuring Timothy Chalamet, Michael B. Jordan, and Leonardo DiCaprio. We dig into the brand-new Achievement in Casting award, talk about who got snubbed (yes, we're looking at you, Dwayne Johnson), and make our probably-wrong predictions across every major category. Whether you're filling out your Oscar ballot or just love talking movies, grab some popcorn — no butter for me, please — and join us.

In this episode of Living It Up with Lneise, an intimate conversation with Alison Brumfield-Jones, founder of Mission Fitness in Mobile, Alabama, and Lululemon ambassador. Alison shares her unexpected journey from stockbroker to fitness entrepreneur, revealing how a pivotal question—"What's your legacy?"—changed everything. Through the impressionable story of a young boy named Henry who couldn't afford a $15 gym membership, Alison discovered her true calling: creating a fitness community where everyone belongs. She opens up to Lenise about doing it scared, why motivation is a "fallacy," and how the way we show up in fitness is the way we show up in life. Whether you're feeling stuck, searching for purpose, or just need a reminder that it's never too late to pursue what sets your soul on fire, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step.

Welcome to Living It Up with Lenise, where we dive into inspirational stories that redefine what's possible! This week, we are honored to host Dr. Cindy Ross, an astonishing individual whose journey took her from being a professional athlete to a three-time doctorate-holding Functional Medicine practitioner. Dr. Ross's story is one of personal transformation and medical discovery. At just 19, her athletic career was tragically halted by a debilitating rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. Compounding this, she watched her family succumb to various autoimmune diseases. But instead of accepting her prognosis, Dr. Ross turned her pain into purpose, discovering the power of lifestyle medicine. Since 2012, she has successfully reversed her own symptoms, proving that while genetics load the gun, lifestyle pulls the trigger. In this candid discussion, Dr. Ross shares her non-negotiable pillars for reclaiming health and vitality. She details why standard blood work is often incomplete and how her approach can spot potential illnesses, like cancer, decades before they become critical. She also outlines her daily routine for fighting inflammation, which includes the critical role of cold plunges and infrared saunas, and emphasizes the absolute necessity of eliminating sugar and toxic seed oils from your diet.  A deep dive into the mind-body connection is central to her message, where she discusses the link between unaddressed emotional trauma (from stress, divorce, or loss) and the onset of chronic disease. She shares her transformative experience at a 10-day silent meditation retreat (Vipassana) and underscores the importance of healing the emotional body alongside the physical one. Dr. Ross addresses the topic of navigating menopause, discussing how she managed surgically induced menopause at 23. Dr. Cindy Ross offers listeners a crucial reminder: It is never too late to take control of your health. Tune in for an episode that will change how you view sickness and wellness forever!

Pitmaster and BBQ Brawl Season 5 winner, Erica Barrett, joins Lenise to share her incredible journey from Mobile, Alabama to Food Network fame. Hear about competing while grieving her grandmother, the cold Texas finale that nearly burned her legs, and her unforgettable sprint toward Bobby Flay. Erica also discusses her signature peach-infused barbecue sauce and her Dough Boy Pizza concept. A heartfelt conversation about cooking with soul, Southern pride, and using her platform to uplift food entrepreneurs. Don't miss this episode of Living It Up with Lenise!

In this edition of "Living It Up with Lenise," we dive into a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Lucy Buffett, renowned restaurateur, author, and famous sister of Margaritaville singer Jimmy Buffett. Lucy shares the journey that led her to open Lulu's in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and reflects on family, food, and the importance of self-discovery. Through a rich tapestry of childhood stories, she discusses how her family's love for cooking and gathering around the table shaped both her identity and career. Lucy's candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a successful restaurant, combined with her passion for empowering others, make this episode a delightful exploration of life, resilience, and pursuing your dreams.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, veteran journalist Kim shares her harrowing experience of witnessing a shooting at her daughter's final dance recital in Mobile, Alabama. What should have been a celebration of her daughter's years of dancing turned into a nightmare when an altercation erupted during a performance by young children, leading to gunshots that sent families diving for cover.

In this episode of "Living It Up with Lenise," we delve into the vibrant world of fashion with Whitney, a seasoned buyer and stylist at Sway, a charming boutique nestled in downtown Fairhope. With a decade of experience under her belt, Whitney shares insights about her unexpected journey into the fashion industry, the intricate market buying process, and the art of closet editing. As she discusses Sway's thoughtful merchandise selection, listeners will discover how Whitney's philosophy centers on personal style and individual confidence, rather than fleeting trends. Join us for an engaging conversation that not only highlights the heart and soul of a beloved boutique but also unveils the transformative power of fashion in helping clients express their true selves.

In this episode of Living It Up with Lenise, fitness expert Gabriela Mclain reveals celebrity training insights from her work on "The Woman King" movie, sharing her transformative journey from athlete to coach. She tackles topics like social media's impact on body image, the psychology of fitness and how to embrace health at any age. Discover mindset and motivation tools to live your best live, and unlock the warrior within.

What drives two sisters to excel in the competitive world of journalism? In this episode of Living It Up with Lenise, I'm chatting with Ashlyn Mitchell and Claudia Nichols, both dedicated news reporters at FOX10 News. They reveal how their faith and Christianity shape their reporting and personal lives, offering insights that inspire and empower. It's a discussion that highlights the power of family, faith, and storytelling!

In this episode of "Living It Up with Lenise," join Lenise Ligon as she reintroduces herself and her podcast, focusing on the power of podcasting for business growth. Joined by fellow podcaster Rod Cate, Lenise shares insights on how to use your podcast as a tool for brand visibility, audience engagement, and authentic connection, all while creating a positive storytelling platform. It's time to discover how to harness the potential of your voice to elevate your business!

In this episode of Lenise Ligon interviews Tyson Lee, a boxing enthusiast and the current president of USA Boxing. Tyson's journey in boxing began at a young age, as he grew up boxing and continued his passion for the sport while studying at West Point Military Academy. He achieved great success, winning championships in both amateur and military boxing. After retiring from the military, Tyson ventured into entrepreneurship before being recruited to join the USA Boxing board. Join us as we delve into Tyson's unique boxing career, the state of amateur boxing in the U.S., the challenges he has faced as president, and his inspiring vision for the future of boxing.