Bob Mann, the LSU Manship Chair in Journalism at the Manship School of Mass Communications and former Press Secretary for Governor Kathleen Blanco joins us in studio as our lead off guest on today's show. He and Jim discuss how Louisiana's growing conservativism and President Obama's approval rating could have an impact on helping U.S. Rep. Bill Cassidy win the upcoming Senate election; and, how Cassidy's reluctance to debate could help U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu's chances at winning a fourth term in the Senate. They discuss this, and much, much more.
Also, journalist and author Allen Salkin is with us today to discuss his latest book From Scratch: The Uncensored History of the Food Network. Allen's book tells us the story of how The Food Network went from a long shot idea to a cable network staple shown over 100 million American homes a year with profits into the upper billions. Paula Dean, Rachel Ray, Emeril Lagasse, Anthony Bourdain are among the many stars associated with The Food Network, and Allen's book cover's their stories and more.