Contributors

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Host

J Stephen Beam

J. Stephen Beam is a storyteller at heart—a retired physician, former science teacher, and author of mystery novels that delve deep into the complexities of human connection.


His novels explore the hidden struggles behind disrupted relationships, set against backdrops like the illicit drug trade and human trafficking. But it’s the emotional truth, not the crime, that drives his narratives. The town of Cold Springs becomes more than a setting—it’s woven in among the characters themselves.


As host of Stories from Cold Springs, Beam brings the same warmth and wisdom he pours into his fiction. With his gentle Mississippi drawl and reflective storytelling, listening to him feels like settling into a porch swing with a friend who’s seen a lot—and isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. He lives in Sumrall, Mississippi, with his wife Dawn, an attorney and former Mississippi Supreme Court Justice who hosts the Hope Mississippi podcast.

https://jstephenbeam.com
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Producer

Hill Kane

Hillary Kane is the editor, producer, and behind-the-scenes heartbeat of Stories from Cold Springs. With a background in storytelling, branding, and design, she brings a thoughtful, detail-driven approach to podcast production—shaping the sound, polish, and pacing of each episode with quiet mastery. Hillary’s experience spans international improv comedies and intimate solo shows, always with an eye (and ear) for what makes a story resonate. Whether it’s audio editing, graphic design, or promotional strategy, she’s the steady hand guiding Cold Springs from raw tape to finished gem. She may stay out of the spotlight, but her work ensures every episode sounds like a front-porch conversation worth remembering.

https://cmo.raisingkanemedia.com/designs

Guests

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Guest

Alexis Frenette

Alexis Frenette is a classically trained violinist and award-winning fiddle player whose musical roots span Connecticut conservatories and Southern front porches. 

A Suzuki Method prodigy by age five, she honed her craft under legendary mentors, played contra dances with folk icons, and later rebounded from a serious neck injury to reclaim her passion for performance. 

Now based in Laurel, Mississippi, Alexis co-directs a thriving music school with her brother and performs across genres—from bluegrass to symphonic. 

Her resilient spirit, deep faith, and commitment to music education inspire her students and audiences alike. 

Whether composing podcast themes or bringing down the house with Ashokan Farewell, Alexis plays with heart, heritage, and healing in every note.

https://laurelmusiclessons.com/what-we-offer/
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Guest

David Sellers

David Sellers is an associate pastor at Parkway Heights United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he leads the Fellowship for Recovery & Spirituality ministry. 


With a background that includes serving in various pastoral roles across Mississippi, David brings a wealth of experience to his ministry. He is known for his innovative approach to sermon preparation, often dictating his messages while walking outdoors to accommodate his dyslexia. 


David's journey from being a self-described "farm prone" individual to a dedicated spiritual leader reflects his commitment to authenticity and connection. His work extends beyond the pulpit, offering guidance and support through recovery ministries and spiritual direction at treatment centers. 


David's storytelling and empathetic approach continue to inspire and resonate with diverse audiences.


https://bit.ly/TheWayThisDayPodcast
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Guest

Dawn Beam

Dawn Henderson Beam is a former Mississippi Supreme Court associate justice, serving from 2016 to 2025.


As co-chair of the Commission on Children's Justice and ReNewMS. She spearheaded efforts to organize Rescue 100 programs to train foster parents. 


Over the years, Justice Beam and her husband, Dr. Stephen Beam, participated in humanitarian missions to Honduras until they were called to focus on their home state. 


From the "What if?" meetings, Pine Belt 360, and their current non-profit, Hope Rising Mississippi, the Beams demonstrate their lifelong commitment to spreading hope, raising awareness, and collaborating with others to end generational poverty in Mississippi.

https://hopemississippi.buzzsprout.com

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Guest

Garfield Moore

Garfield Moore is a classically trained cellist whose musical journey has spanned Carnegie Hall, the jazz greats of the 20th century, and the quiet resolve of small-town Mississippi. Born to a family of trailblazing Black professionals, Moore drew strength from his mother—a housewife-turned-professor who earned a scholarship in her name—and inspiration from icons like Leontyne Price. 


From a debut with Sarah Vaughan to performances with Liza Minnelli, The Rat Pack, and so many more, Moore’s career is a testament to perseverance and passion. 


Now based in Bassfield, MS, he teaches, performs, and prepares concerts that span Bach to Rock—all while inspiring the next generation. 


Whether on stage or in conversation, Moore reminds us that the soul of music lives not just in sound, but in the stories behind it.

https://garfieldmoore.com

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Guest

Stubbs Lucus

Daniel “Stubbs” Lucus is a master woodworker, entrepreneur, and storyteller whose journey from a pea patch in rural Mississippi to the sets of HGTV’s Hometown is nothing short of inspiring. 


Known for his authentic charm and relentless work ethic, Stubbs started his first business at age 10 with help from his grandfather’s mule. After convincing school officials to let him pursue vocational training early, he discovered a passion for craftsmanship that led to a thriving cabinetry business—and eventually, TV recognition. 


A former host of Real South Hunting on YouTube and a fan favorite on Hometown, Stubbs is as comfortable in a duck blind as he is in a woodshop. 


Through his deep Southern roots, humble wisdom, and hilarious personal stories (including an “accidental” marriage proposal), Stubbs brings heart, humor, and grit to everything he touches.

http://www.stubbscustommillwork.com/

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