The Shrimp City Report Podcast (Charleston, South Carolina)

Shrimp City Report

Charleston native father and son bring you the Shrimp City Report Podcast.  The Shrimp City Report is your guide to Lowcountry leisure, entertainment, and lifestyle. Covering everything from local events and dining to arts, culture, and coastal living, this podcast offers in-depth discussions, expert insights, and engaging interviews with the people shaping the region. Whether you're a longtime resident or a visitor looking to experience the charm of the Lowcountry, Shrimp City Report brings you the latest trends, hidden gems, and must-know updates to make the most of life in this vibrant coastal community.

  1. 1d ago

    35 Years On Air: Bobby Hartin’s Wild Ride Through Charleston Sports Radio

    Join us as we  sit down with Charleston radio legend Bobby Hartin (35 years on air) for a wide-ranging, laugh-filled conversation about sports, local culture, and community. In this episode Bobby opens up about his childhood in Orangeburg, college life at South Carolina (cheerleading and all), and the fandom he inherited from his father. The show traces Bobby’s journey from working at Pearlstine in Charleston and running sports bars (the first sports bar in Charleston with the big satellite dish) to launching a long-running fan-talk radio program. Hear behind-the-scenes stories — his nervous first remote with a caller on a pay phone, memorable recurring callers (Boston John, Dave, George Dickel), and the outrageous bits that have kept listeners tuning in for decades. We cover Bobby’s approach to radio (local-first coverage, college football focus, reliance on callers, and about four hours of prep), his thoughts on the changing media landscape (podcasts, AM/FM future), and why he avoids getting bogged down in NIL/money talk. The episode also highlights fun segments and debates from the show — the fried chicken debate (family-cooked cast-iron skillet wins), shrimp preferences, and the summer World Cup/soccer buzz — plus regular features like high school previews, RiverDogs/Battery coverage, NASCAR/racing spots, and more. We also get candid anecdotes (a broken TV after a lost championship, remotes, Dixie Bubbles, memorable callers getting banned), details about Bobby’s bar and radio overlap, and a look at his deep community commitment: the annual Ronald McDonald House radiothon (over $50,000 raised last year), Bobby’s role on the board of trustees, and the charity tattoo stunt that helped inspire donations. https://www.kirkmanbroadcasting.org/charlestonsportsradio-1 https://x.com/fantalk989 https://www.facebook.com/fan.talk.7/

  2. Aug 8

    The Boonkey Trail: Charleston Horror Film with Local Heart

    Duante Brown    Trell Lee In this episode we sit down with Charleston filmmaker Dante Brown and actor Trell Lee to talk about their upcoming Lowcountry-set feature The Boonkey Trail. Dante, a Johns Island and downtown Charleston native, walks us through the film’s origins, his writing process, the local influences that shaped the story, and why he chose to root this horror/comedy in authentic Charleston culture. Trell — Dante’s cousin and a natural comic presence — discusses his character and what it’s like being cast by someone who grew up alongside him. Topics include the film’s tone and visual style (a colorful, trippy horror with summer-comedy energy), cinematic influences like the Japanese horror Cure and classic comedies, and the deliberate choice to highlight Gullah–Geechee folklore and Charleston myths. Dante describes how research with family members and local lore informed the screenplay, including haunted figures such as the Boo Hag, the enigmatic motorbike man, and other “haints” woven into the story. We cover production details: the creative team (producers Jake Clancy and Alex, DP Dr. Glover), current development status, permitting and location conversations with the City of Charleston, and plans to shoot crowd-driven scenes at Charleston City Market. Dante shares other planned locations like Dock Street Theater exteriors, Cypress Gardens, Angel Oak, and the Battery, and explains why the premiere will be right here in Charleston when the time comes. We also talk about about casting and crew logistics, the guerrilla filmmaking spirit Dante admires, and his desire to keep production and spending as local as possible while also seeking outside collaborators and funding. The episode includes a call for extras, local support, and investors — with details on how to follow and contact the team for updates, casting notices, and sponsorship opportunities.   Throughout the conversation we also get a taste of local flavor — from Dante and Trell’s upbringing on Johns Island to a light-hearted Shrimp City moment where they debate the best way to eat shrimp — giving listeners both behind-the-scenes movie talk and an authentic snapshot of Lowcountry life. Follow The Bunky Trail on Instagram and TikTok at @boonkeytrail for production updates and casting calls; you can also find Dante on Instagram at @dentyne_3. Tune in for an inside look at a homegrown Charleston film blending folklore, comedy, and horror — and learn how you can be part of it. ALEXANDER H. MONTGOMERY EXECUTIVE PRODUCER (843) 957 5491 amontgomery@stainedglassmosaicproductions.com JAKE CLANCY PRODUCER & FIRST AD (508) 654 2656 jclancy@stainedglassmosaicproductions.com DAUNTE BROWN WRITER, DIRECTOR, & PRODUCER (843) 478 5298 dbrown@stainedglassmosaicproductions.com ALL INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND RIGHTS RESERVED BY DAUNTE BROWN AND STAINED GLASS MOSAIC PRODUCTIONS

  3. Jul 20

    Birthplace of South Carolina: Inside Charlestowne Landing with John Hiatt

    John Hiatt with Clark the Elk on The Adventure On this episode we visit the Charlestowne Landing State Historic Site in West Ashley, Charleston, and sit down with John Hiatt, Interpretive Ranger and park historian. John shares his personal journey to the park, how archaeological research and primary sources shape interpretation, and why Charlestowne Landing is known as the birthplace of South Carolina (first settled in 1670). Listeners will hear a sweeping overview of the site's layered history: the 17th-century English settlement and its move to Oyster Point, the Old Town Plantation era, archaeological discoveries (including a Mississippian-period Native American ceremonial site), and the African‑American cemetery connected to the plantation period. John explains how ongoing digs continue to refine the park’s story and how artifacts are rotated into exhibits and programs. The conversation also highlights the park’s living features: three miles of trails, 664 acres (about 200 acres of upland), Ferdinanda “Ferdie” Legare Waring’s extensive gardens and avenues of oaks, and the Animal Forest & Aviary — home to bison, elk, otters, bears, and domesticated animals that illustrate colonial life. John describes the Adventure tall‑ship replica, its construction and sea trials, and how small cargo vessels served the original settlement. Education and public programming are a major focus: curriculum-based school programs (Discover Carolina), hands‑on demonstrations (Colonial Cultivation, indigo dyeing), the popular Great Guns artillery demonstrations, living‑history events (Founders Day and Colonial Trades & Harvest Day), and seasonal archaeology tours. The park also offers two premiere event venues, robust volunteer opportunities, and an active outreach/video program developed during the pandemic. https://southcarolinaparks.com/charles-towne-landing One of the native species you can check out at Charlestowne Landing.

  4. Jul 10

    Dave Lorenz and Lou Lou's Tavern on the Tracks Restaurant

    https://www.louloustavern.com www.instagram.com/louloustavern In this episode we sat down with Charleston restaurateur Dave Lorenz — the owner behind Mex1, Islander 71 and the newly opened Lou Lou’s Tavern on the Tracks at The Refinery. Dave walks through his journey from the apparel business and early restaurant days with Sticky Fingers to building multiple local concepts, selling Bohemian Bull, and launching the chef-forward Lou Lou’s in the unique Neck/Refinery neighborhood. Topics covered include why Dave chose The Refinery and the “on the tracks” location (railcars, sunset patios, easy parking and an amphitheater), the restaurant’s shareable small-plates approach, and the balance between Southern comfort and adventurous, chef-driven dishes. We discuss menu highlights — lobster bao buns, gochujang-inspired short ribs, marinated deviled eggs and crispy maitake mushrooms — and how the small-plates format invites communal dining and discovery. The conversation also dives into Lou Lou’s beverage program: kegged wines and keg cocktails for consistent, balanced pours; thoughtful cocktail development; and a curated draft list that complements the food and concert crowd. Dave describes the team behind the kitchen (Chefs Patrick and Alex), the development process for the opening menu, and how the restaurant plans to keep things rotating and approachable for Charleston diners. Beyond food and drink, Dave explains Lou Lou’s community ties — a local art wall with consigned pieces, partnerships with The Refinery’s concert schedule, and a VIP program that gives early access to events, menus and special dinners. The episode highlights the idea of “dinner and a show” at The Refinery: arriving early for a relaxed meal and drinks, then stepping outside to catch live music without the usual line or slow bar service.

  5. Jun 28

    Boris Van Dyck: Entrepreneurship, Diving and more from the Paradiso Cabana Club

    https://www.borisvandyck.com/ https://www.instagram.com/borisvandyck/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/borisvandyck/ https://www.paradisochs.com/ For this interview we  sit poolside with Boris Van Dyck, the entrepreneur behind Paradiso Cabana Club at Mixon. In this wide-ranging conversation Boris shares his personal and professional journey — from growing up between Belgium and the Caribbean, to studying marine biology at the College of Charleston, to working as a commercial diver in the Gulf of Mexico, and ultimately finding his calling in hospitality, event services, and real estate development. Topics covered include the origin stories of multiple ventures: the high-end cocktail catering company Icebox, the event rentals and tent business Event Haus, and later pivots into real estate development and capital raising. Boris walks listeners through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship — surviving the 2008 market downturn, scaling Icebox to thousands of events a year, the impacts of COVID on a senior-housing development, and how those experiences informed his approach to building and managing mixed businesses today. The episode also dives into the story behind Paradiso Cabana Club: how Boris discovered the property, his vision to transform it into an oasis inspired by Caribbean and European beach clubs, and the long renovation and operational work to reopen and grow membership. Expect a tour of Paradiso’s amenities — a large pool, nine roomy cabanas, a recovery cabana with cold plunge and sauna, a 24/7 gym and wellness center with monthly classes, a members-only restaurant/co-work space, and the Market coffee shop open to the public. Listen for practical details on membership and programming: roughly 500 membership accounts (about 1,300 individuals), seasonal usage patterns, year-round fitness and events, a concert series and ticketed shows to drive winter engagement, recurring adult swim nights, DJ sets, and big-screen World Cup and match watch parties. Boris also explains how Paradiso balances member benefits with public-facing offerings to grow visibility and revenue. Key takeaways highlight resilience and versatility — how to pivot after setbacks, the value of hospitality experience in launching successful event and hospitality brands, lessons learned building teams and systems, and the benefits of integrating real estate, development, and operations. Boris shares how he structures his current businesses (development, construction, capital raising, property management) and his preference for building long-term assets rather than transactional brokerage work. Whether you’re interested in hospitality, real estate development, event production, or simply looking for Charleston’s best new poolside hangout, this episode offers inspiration, strategy, and behind-the-scenes stories from a serial entrepreneur who turned a rundown property into a thriving community hub.

  6. Jun 20

    Inside Groucho's Deli with Max Miller

    Pictured: Bruce Miller (L) and our guest for the episode, Max Miller (R).  Both of Groucho's deli.   In this episode we sit down with Max Miller, owner-operator of Groucho’s Deli in the Charleston area, for a deep dive into sandwiches, family history, and what makes a hometown deli last. It is a lively conversation about the classic lunch-counter vibe, community connections, and the recipes that built a South Carolina institution. We trace Groucho’s roots back to Columbia in 1941 with founder Harold “Groucho” Miller and learn how the shop evolved under Max’s grandfather, Ivan — from a go-by-the-pound deli to the signature sandwich and side-focused menu the family is known for today. Hear the origin stories for their iconic dippers and sauces (including the famous 45 sauce, developed in 1945, and the 95 sauce), the Apollo-era influences, and why those flavors still set Groucho’s apart. Max shares his personal journey — growing up in Columbia, studying entrepreneurship at the College of Charleston, and opening the Mount Pleasant location in October 2020 in the middle of COVID. He talks candidly about the risks and rewards of launching during the pandemic, community support, and the day-to-day of operating neighborhood sandwich counters with long lunch bars where regulars gather. There is also behind-the-scenes anecdotes about family lore (including immigrant roots and a surprising Philadelphia orphanage chapter), menu favorites like potato salad and coleslaw, the mechanics and appeal of dipping sandwiches, and fun moments (TikTok prep, pre-interview coaching, and loyal customers who buy sauce by the pint). The episode also touches on future plans — retailing the sauce, trademark ideas, and keeping a local brand growing while staying authentic. Groucho's Mt. Pleasant: https://www.facebook.com/grouchosmp https://locations.grouchos.com/locations/sc/mount-pleasant Groucho's Deli: https://www.facebook.com/GROUCHOSDELI https://www.instagram.com/grouchos_deli

  7. Jun 4

    Bowen's Island: A Tradition of Oysters, Seafood, Family & Folly Beach Sunsets

    On this live episode of the Shrimp City Report, hosts Devin and DJ broadcast from Bowen's Island Restaurant on a small Lowcountry island just outside Folly Beach. Their guest is Hope Barber, a fourth-generation member of the Bowen family who runs the iconic, longest continuously operating restaurant in Charleston.  Hope traces Bowen's origins to 1946 when her great-grandmother Sarah May bought the 13-acre island (for $3,900) and later turned a fisherman's offer into a meal service that evolved into the restaurant. The conversation covers family continuity (many island homes remain in the family), Hope's journey from law and teaching back to the restaurant, and the restaurant's role as a community hub across storms, fires and changing times. The episode digs into Bowen's menu and seafood sourcing: the preservation of classic fried fish, shrimp and flounder platters; the addition of a raw bar and local oysters due to nearby oyster farms; the farm-to-table/river-to-table experience of watching oysters come off boats; and practical tips for newcomers (how to enjoy oysters, steamed vs. raw, fried green tomatoes, crab dip, seafood platters and Frogmore Stew). Expect discussion of oyster terroir (salinity and minerality), the local oyster season (generally October–May), all-you-can-eat clusters, and the restaurant’s oyster-recycling and conservation practices. Key milestones and challenges are highlighted: Bowen's earned the James Beard America’s Classic award, suffered a major fire and rebuilt over several years — a narrative of resilience that underscores the family’s stewardship of the land and waterways. Hope also talk about operations: docks for boat arrivals, working with Charleston Outdoor Adventures and kayak tours, event and wedding venues on site, staffing patterns (local students and long-term employees), and how the business balances tradition with new offerings. The episode previews recent and upcoming events at Bowen's — from EDM “Grooving Violations” nights and pilates-on-the-pier pop-ups to partnership events like Flavor Fest with Southern Flavor Magazine — and notes that many special events sell out quickly. Website Instagram Facebook

  8. May 27

    Inside Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens with Jim Westerhold

    For this podcast we were on location at Boone Hall Plantation with special guest Jim Westerhold, General Manager of Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens. In this episode Jim walked us through the property’s dual identity: the historic plantation and its working farm, and explains how the site operates as a unique 738‑acre oasis in the middle of Mount Pleasant. The conversation traces Boone Hall’s roots back to the original 1681 land grant, highlights the iconic Avenue of Oaks (planted in 1743), and clarifies that the signature mansion dates to 1935. Jim discusses recent archival discoveries from the Harlbeck family and the ongoing effort to present history accurately and respectfully. We learned about Boone Hall’s agricultural operations — seasonal U‑pick strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, honey from on‑site beehives, indigo and cotton display plots, native sweetgrass and longleaf pine — and how agritourism and education are central to the mission. Jim describes daily tours, the tractor‑pulled farm & nature tour, school programs, and seasonal events such as the Strawberry Festival, extended Pumpkin Patch & corn maze, Christmas Tree Festival, and popular wine and oyster events on the historic side. Key themes include conservation and community: Jim explains the 2019 conservation easement placed by Willie and the McRae family that protects Boone Hall from subdivision and development, ensuring the property’s appearance and public access remain for future generations. The episode also celebrates Willie’s legacy, local partnerships (including Willie’s Roadside Produce Market), and the staff of over 100 who run daily operations and seasonal programming. The episode touches on ecology and wildlife found at Boone Hall — alligators, bald eagles, wood storks and pollinators — and how those natural neighbors are woven into interpretive programs. Jim also highlights cultural programming such as Black History Month events in the Gin House, partnerships that send students to learn abroad, and plans to expand community offerings. Practical information included: which activities require advance tickets, where to buy Boone Hall honey and produce (Willie’s Roadside Market), and how to follow events and purchase tickets via the plantation’s website and social media. Expect a warm, informative tour‑style episode that blends Lowcountry history, hands‑on farming, conservation, and family‑friendly events — perfect for locals and visitors planning a Boone Hall experience. For tickets and further information: https://boonehallplantation.com   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boonehallplantation   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boonehallplantation

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Charleston native father and son bring you the Shrimp City Report Podcast.  The Shrimp City Report is your guide to Lowcountry leisure, entertainment, and lifestyle. Covering everything from local events and dining to arts, culture, and coastal living, this podcast offers in-depth discussions, expert insights, and engaging interviews with the people shaping the region. Whether you're a longtime resident or a visitor looking to experience the charm of the Lowcountry, Shrimp City Report brings you the latest trends, hidden gems, and must-know updates to make the most of life in this vibrant coastal community.