The Shrimp City Report Podcast (Charleston, South Carolina)

Shrimp City Report
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Leisure
  • Updated Weekly

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. 6d ago

    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.

    33 min

  2. 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

    29 min

  3. 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

    31 min

  4. 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

    29 min

  5. May 11

    SXVXNT - Chatting with an impactful Lowcountry Rap musician and promoter

    We had a great time discussing  SXVXNT’s journey from the west side of Chicago through four years in the Army, studying at DePaul, and grinding the open‑mic circuit in Los Angeles. He explains why he stylized his name S‑X‑V‑X‑N‑T, the move from L.A. to the Southeast to be closer to family, and how remote work during COVID gave him the chance to build his own recording setup. The conversation highlights his deep musical roots: a father who played piano and sang, early training on piano and trumpet, ongoing jazz chops, and surprising classical influences (including Alexander Goedicke). SXVXNT names Nas, Prince, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), Lupe Fiasco, Phonte and others as key inspirations that shaped his lyricism and songwriting. We discuss his creative process — from tinkering and multi‑year revisions to freestyling that became finished tracks (notably on the Wayfair project and the freestyled “Kobenhaven 0400”). He also recounts early performances (first Chicago gig at Reggie’s, opening for Planet Asia in LA), industry experiences (label offers and the pressure for visuals), and the practical realities of producing and mixing his own work. On the local front SXVXNT explains the Rap‑A‑Lot series — an ongoing effort to put Charleston rappers on bigger stages — and his vision for stronger venues and mixed‑genre bills. He talks memorable shows (including opening for D Smoke)  and winning Rapper of the Year. We also discuss the challenges and camaraderie within the Lowcountry scene, and his preference for music as an auditory art even as he accepts the need for visuals. What to expect from this episode: personal stories, performance anecdotes, the mechanics of freestyling and songwriting, gig life across L.A., Chicago, Atlanta and New York, and SXVXNT’s plans for future shows. Find his music and updates at soundofkanai.com and on Instagram @sxvxntsoc — tune in to hear a musician who blends classical training, jazz instrumentation, and hip‑hop hustle into a distinct Charleston voice. Music | Sound Of Cannae

    33 min

  6. May 1

    Shrimp, Blessings & Small-Town Spirit: Inside the 48th LowCountry Shrimp Festival

    In this episode we speak with Alicia Leland about the 48th annual Low Country Shrimp Festival and Blessing of the Fleet, held in and around McClellanville at the Robert E. Ashley Boat Landing (at the end of Pinckney Street). Alicia, a McClellanville native, walks us through the festival’s history, its roots in the community, and what keeps this tradition alive. Topics covered include the festival’s role as a fundraiser for the Cape Romaine Environmental Education Charter School (CREEKS), the school’s environmentally themed, project-based curriculum, and the ways students and volunteers participate in the event (yes—kids help peel shrimp). We trace the festival’s origin back to 1976, note the two missed years during COVID, and explain how the event transitioned from supporting a former private school to backing the charter school. Alicia also discusses the festival’s efforts to be greener and how the partnership with the school fits the festival mission. The episode highlights McClellanville’s working waterfront: one of the largest East Coast fleets and two commercial processing docks (Carolina Seafoods and Livingston’s Bulls Bay Seafood). Listeners get a look at festival logistics and must-do moments: the Blessing of the Fleet (clergy bless boats during the parade down), plenty of shrimp and other foods, live music, roughly 60 local craft vendors, and crowd estimates of about 2,500–4,000 people for the day (in a town of roughly 550 residents). The show also covers planning rhythms, key volunteers and vendors, and humorous community stories from past festivals. Alicia advises attendees to come prepared for typical Lowcountry weather—rain or shine—with tents and covered areas available. She mentions plans and hopes for the festival’s 50th anniversary and encourages listeners to join the celebration. For more information and updates, follow the Low Country Shrimp Festival on Facebook (Low Country Shrimp Festival) or visit lowcountryshrimpfestival.com. The Blessing of the Fleet is scheduled for 4:00 PM on festival day; check the festival’s Facebook event page and FAQ for the latest details.

    19 min

  7. Apr 27

    Big Ben Kennedy from the Snakkin and Yakkin Podcast

    Photo credit https://www.westof.net/ This episode we chat with comedian and podcaster Big Ben Kennedy of the Snakkin and Yakkin podcast. It's a lively conversation that covers Ben’s stand-up origins in Baltimore, his move to Charleston, and how family shaped his choices. Ben discusses acting and improv experiences, early open-mic nights, touring as an opener for major names, and a memorable stage moment with Darrell Hammond. He also opens up about his long career as an EMT/paramedic and how that perspective informs — but rarely supplies — his comedy material. The episode dives into Ben’s podcast Snakkin and Yakkin: how it started, the pivot from co-hosted taste tests to interview-driven episodes, booking local creatives and business owners, producing video and audio (three-camera shoots, Adobe editing), and social media strategies. Ben shares practical lessons on studio work, show preparation, guest selection, and building authentic, long-form conversations that go beyond promotional blurbs. Website: https://snackinyakkin.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@snackinyakkin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snackinyakkin/

    53 min

  8. Apr 21

    Forging Charleston: Blacksmith Zach Liollio on History, Tools and Art

    Welcome to this episode of the Shrimp City Report with Devin and DJ — we talk with Charleston native and blacksmith Zach Liollio about his life, craft, and small-business journey. Zach shares how his visual arts education and family background in architecture led him to hands-on metalworking and a love of historic tools and techniques. Zach recounts studying historic preservation at College of Charleston, taking a classes at the American College of the Building Arts, and learning blacksmithing at Middleton Place. He explains how design, history and engineering come together in ornamental and production blacksmithing, and how traditional methods inform his contemporary work. Listeners will hear about Zach’s ZPL studio in West Ashley, how he collects and maintains tools, adapts found spaces (including a former auto shop) into a working studio, and balances craft with efficiency — what he calls “manufacturability” when producing batches of items for sale. A major focus of the conversation is Zach’s Thayer multi-tool project: the history of the 1881 patent, the tool’s original stove and kitchen uses, how he reproduces and modernizes the design, and why vintage-inspired multi-tools have resonated with today’s buyers on Etsy, eBay and wholesale channels. We also cover Zac’s unexpected hits — like copper coffee scoops sized for refillable K‑cups that evolved into restaurant orders — and the range of materials he uses (mild and tool steels, stainless, copper, cast iron and even titanium for certain pieces). He explains forging methods, coal-forge memories at Middleton, and the practicalities of making durable, functional pieces. Zach discusses community and education in the trade: the Philip Simmons/South Carolina Artist Blacksmith Guild, meetups and demos, his part-time teaching at the American College of the Building Arts, and projects such as gate work for Charleston institutions. He emphasizes how supportive local networks and hands-on demos help sustain the craft. For makers and entrepreneurs, Zach shares product-development tips (test in your own kitchen or studio), the power of short-form video and influencer partnerships to drive sales, and the realities of social media as a full-time job for growing a craft business. Find Zach at www.zplandco.com and on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zpliollio/; he also posts new work on Facebook. Tune in to hear a mix of history, practical craft talk, product stories, and the business side of modern blacksmithing — an episode that celebrates tradition, creativity, and Charleston’s living craft culture.

    28 min
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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.

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