The Hatch Podcast
At the intersection of innovation, creativity, and community — The Hatch Podcast shares stories from founders, scientists, and artists shaping the future of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Produced at Hatch Fairhope, it’s where bold ideas take flight.
The Founders Series dives into the journeys of startup founders building the future of business, technology, and innovation across the Gulf South.
The Music Accelerator combines professional music industry guidance with spiritual mentorship, creating a unique environment where artists can grow both creatively and personally. Hosted by music industry veteran Chris Estes, this series features conversations with artists and insiders who’ve spent years shaping the sounds and stories of modern music.
The Bioscience Innovation Series explores breakthroughs in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science — with founders and researchers driving life-changing discoveries in labs across the region.
Around the Table features conversations with Alabama’s most forward-thinking companies and creators, from startups re-imagining industry to leaders building stronger communities.
And throughout the year, The Hatch Podcast Network introduces new limited series spotlighting the people and ideas transforming the Gulf Coast economy — one story at a time.
Find out more at hatchfairhope.com
Contact: team@hatchfairhope.com
The Hatch Podcast
How One State Shaped American Music: Lionel Richie & The Voices of Alabama | Music Accelerator
What gives Alabama its sound — that soulful mix of gospel roots, southern storytelling, and pure heart that carries across generations?
In this episode, producer Tim Scott takes you on a journey through the voices that defined generations — from Nat King Cole and Dinah Washington to Hank Williams, Percy Sledge, Randy Owen, and Jimmy Buffett.
At the heart of it all is Tuskegee’s own Lionel Richie, whose unmistakable voice carried Alabama’s soul to the global stage. Hear Lionel in his own words as he reflects on his journey, faith, and what it means to stay grounded in the spotlight.
🎧 Listen to learn:
- How Alabama’s gospel roots shaped its distinct sound
- The Muscle Shoals sessions that changed American soul music
- Lionel Richie’s path from the Commodores to global icon
- Why authenticity is at the heart of every great Alabama artist
- How voices from Fort Payne to Mobile created music that still unites people today
Episode Highlights:
- Nat King Cole’s smooth tone that broke racial barriers in 1950s America
- Dinah Washington’s fiery delivery that earned her the title “Queen of the Blues”
- The raw emotion behind Percy Sledge’s When a Man Loves a Woman
- Lionel Richie’s reflections on faith, love, and purpose
- The rise of Alabama’s country legends and Gulf Coast storytellers
Quotes:
“Some decisions I didn’t make at all — God just took me by the hand and said, ‘Here you go, babes.’” — Lionel Richie
“Our artists don’t hide behind the music. They bring their whole selves into it.” — Tim Scott
“You’ve got to like that person in the mirror. If you have a problem with that person, you’ll have problems the rest of the day.” — Lionel Richie
Produced by: Tim Scott
Executive Producer & Creator: Keith Glines
A production of: Hatch Fairhope
Learn more: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com
About The Hatch Podcast
At the intersection of innovation, creativity, and community — The Hatch Podcast shares stories from founders, scientists, and artists shaping the future of Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
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🔗 Learn more: hatchfairhope.com
📩 Contact: team@hatchfairhope.com
Produced by Tim Scott for The Hatch Podcast Network.