top of page
News,
Mental Health,
Southern Lifestyle & Recipes


“Good Trouble” Ignites Again: Chicago Rises on John Lewis Anniversary to Defend Democracy
Thousands expected to gather in Chicago and beyond as civil rights icon’s legacy fuels a growing movement against Trump-era policies...
Natalie Frank
Jul 151 min read


The Unspoken Rules of Southern Gas Station Culture: Where Gossip Flows Like Sweet Tea and Boiled Peanuts Are Sacred
Inside the small-town South’s favorite gathering place, where pit stops turn into porch sittin’, strangers aren’t really strangers, and...
Natalie Frank
Jul 111 min read


Why Every Southern Town Has a Haunted Bridge, a Broken Bell, and a Lost Bride
How Southern ghost stories shape memory, identity, and the hidden grief behind every whispered tale Natalie C. Frank, Ph.D July 9, 2025...
Natalie Frank
Jul 91 min read


Chicago's Jarvis Beach Sees Massive Fireworks Display on July 4th
Despite the City of Chicago not hosting official July 4th fireworks for a number of years, beachfront displays were seen up and down Lake...
Natalie Frank
Jul 53 min read


July 4th Fresh Berry Red, White & Blue Poke Cake: A Naturally Sweet Southern Celebration
Made with real strawberries and blueberries, this cool and creamy cake brings patriotic flavor to your summer table — without the...
Natalie Frank
Jul 32 min read


From Prison to the Spotlight: Chicago Man Wrongfully Imprisoned for 35 Years Finds Redemption Through Theatre
After decades behind bars for a crime he didn't commit, Brian Beals reclaims his future, empowers his community through healing power of...
Natalie Frank
Jun 252 min read


Reclaiming the Kudzu: The Green Invader That Ate the South — And the Guilt We Buried With It
How an invasive vine became a symbol of unchecked ambition, forgotten shame, and the tangled beauty of Southern resilience Natalie C....
Natalie Frank
Jun 252 min read


Chicago Honors Freedom: Can’t-Miss Juneteenth 2025 Events That Celebrate Black Culture and Community
Parades, performances, and powerful conversations; how Chicago is turning Juneteenth 2025 into a citywide tribute to liberation, legacy,...
Natalie Frank
Jun 163 min read


Democrats Caught in the Crossfire: Will Protests Against Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Help or Hurt?
As ‘No Kings’ movement gains momentum nationwide, Democrats weigh emotional pull of resistance against political risks of appearing soft...
Natalie Frank
Jun 141 min read


Power Shift Looms in Chicago as Movement Seeks Groundbreaking Mayoral Recall and Citywide Reforms
Local Chicago advocacy group champions transformative charter to empower residents with recall rights Natalie C. Frank, Ph.D June 10,...
Natalie Frank
Jun 101 min read


The Rise of the ‘Maybe’ RSVP: How Social Anxiety Is Changing Our Commitment Culture
From last-minute cancellations to perpetual uncertainty, the hidden cost of post-pandemic social anxiety is reshaping how we plan,...
Natalie Frank
Jun 61 min read


Chicago Fire's Bold $650M Stadium Plan Aims to Transform 'The 78' into a Thriving Urban Hub
Privately funded soccer stadium set to anchor Chicago’s newest neighborhood, blending sports, community, and revitalization Natalie C....
Natalie Frank
Jun 41 min read


Chicago Fire's Bold $650M Stadium Plan Aims to Transform 'The 78' into a Thriving Urban Hub
Privately funded soccer stadium set to anchor Chicago’s newest neighborhood, blending sports, community, and revitalization Natalie C....
Natalie Frank
Jun 41 min read


Southern Cobb Salad with a Twist: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Take on a Classic American Favorite
Discover how this soulful Southern spin on the traditional Cobb salad delivers crispy, creamy, smoky goodness in every bite — perfect for...
Natalie Frank
Jun 21 min read


Southern-Style Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate and Bourbon Whipped Cream: A Creamy Classic with a Kick
Rich, nostalgic, and made from scratch — this Southern peanut butter pie delivers old-school charm with a modern bourbon twist Natalie C....
Natalie Frank
May 311 min read


Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pickled Red Onions: A Bold Twist on a Classic Southern Side
Bright, tangy, and full of crunch, this southern Brussels sprouts salad with pickled red onions adds soul to your table and surprises...
Natalie Frank
May 291 min read
bottom of page



