Lifestyle
Living Southern means more than slowing down — it means living with intention. From food stories and chef collaborations to fishing adventures, wellness escapes, and cultural deep dives, Retire Southern curates lifestyle content that inspires you to embrace this mindset wherever you are. Because retirement isn’t an age — it’s a lifestyle.
Jennie’s Gumbo: The One Email That Became a Family Tradition
Jennie’s Post-Thanksgiving Turkey & Sausage Gumbo is a reminder of what Southern cooking is really about: gathering, memory, and the people who taught us how to live well. Explore the full story and cook her gumbo just the way she shared it in 2011, written in her voice and preserved for every table that needs a little more warmth.
The Golden Isles Catch, Clean, and Cook — It’s the REEL Deal
A coastal Georgia adventure where you catch your dinner, clean it dockside, and enjoy it fresh at Wolf Island Oyster Co. — the Golden Isles’ ultimate “catch and cook” experience.
Franken-foods of the South: Over-the-Top Dishes for Every Foodie
A team of Retire Southern storytellers dishes on the South’s strangest, most over-the-top creations — from pickle pizza to the legendary Turducken. Proof that down here, flavor has no rules.
New Restaurant, Coming Soon: The SOS Counter from Sourdoughs of Somerset in Brentwood, TN
Michaella and Ryder Zetts turned a small pandemic baking project into Sourdoughs of Somerset, a beloved Brentwood staple rooted in community and culinary excellence. Now, the Michelin-trained duo is expanding their homegrown success with SOS Counter, a brick-and-mortar location opening in fall 2025.
A Raw Take on Charleston, South Carolina
A candid look at Charleston’s wilder side, from ice bars and oyster farms to fishing tales and food adventures.
Retire Southern Recommends: Our Favorite Atlanta Restaurants for Every Kind of Night Out
From burgers and rooftop drinks to white tablecloth splurges, our team shares their favorite Atlanta restaurants for every kind of night out.
How One Night at the Georgia Aquarium Raised Over $1 Million for Childhood Cancer Research
Join us for an inspiring look at Rally on the Runway at the Georgia Aquarium, where over $1 million was raised to fund critical childhood cancer research.
Rocky Top Rendezvous: Surviving UT Parents Weekend
Plan the ultimate UT Parents Weekend with this Knoxville travel guide—featuring hotel tips, restaurant picks, local attractions, and campus visit advice.
The Creole Catch & Cook: Lafitte to NOLA
Experience the ultimate Louisiana catch and cook adventure—from reeling in Redfish in Lafitte to savoring your fresh catch prepared by top chefs in New Orleans.
Fly Fishing North Georgia 101 with Hunter Morris
Have you always wanted to try fly fishing but don’t have the gear or the know-how? We have four words for you: Fly Fishing North Georgia. You’re welcome.
The Retire Southern Team’s Top Picks of 2024
Our team shares their favorite articles of the year! Join us as we reflect on 2024’s best Southern stories.
Stay Healthy This Holiday Season with Our Favorite At-Home Remedies
Explore the best at-home remedies for staying healthy this holiday season, blending the wisdom of folk herbalism with modern tips. Discover how bitters, honey, and herbs can support digestion, soothe sore throats, and keep you feeling your best.
A Georgia Holiday Tradition Worthy of the Season: The Legacy and Impact of Clark's Christmas Kids
Discover the heartwarming story of Clark's Christmas Kids, a Georgia tradition founded by Clark Howard. Learn how this program brings holiday joy to foster children through community generosity.
Why Christmas Cards Still Matter: Personal Touches in the Age of Social Media
Why we believe Christmas cards remain a meaningful holiday tradition, with tips on creating personalized cards, thoughtful mailing practices, and festive display ideas.
The Hunting Season Survival Guide for Spouses: 5 Fun and Practical Tips
Whether it’s about finding balance or embracing self-care, these ideas make hunting season more enjoyable for everyone.
The Unique Charm of Being a “Turkey Baby”
Contributor Andrea Rizk explores what it means to be a "turkey baby" in the South, celebrating birthdays surrounded by Thanksgiving traditions and Southern charm.
Spice Up Your Holidays with the Cajun Meat Company
Looking for a little something extra this holiday season? Try spicing up your traditional spread with a turducken and other Acadiana favorites from the Cajun Meat Company.
The ‘Why’ Behind Retire Southern
Founder James Lewis reflects on the inspiration and purpose behind the launch of Retire Southern.
Five Quintessential Southern Novels: Works that Capture the Spirit of the South
Five timeless Southern novels that beautifully capture the heart, history, ad complexities of the South—each a must-read for any lover of rich storytelling and unforgettable characters.
What Does Pilates Do for Your Body? A Personal Journey to Strength and Wellness
Pilates is more than just a workout—it's a pathway to building strength, resilience, and balance.