Blaise Daniel Pezold, born on February 15th, 1978, at East Jefferson Hospital in Metairie, Louisiana, is a passionate advocate for coastal restoration and protection in Louisiana. Although he moved away from Louisiana at a young age, he returned at the age of 18 and has lived there ever since. His early experiences with the wetlands, including fishing trips with his grandfather and working with his father, an ichthyologist, instilled in him a deep connection to the region. Before his involvement in coastal restoration, Pezold worked as a chef and provided disaster catering for linemen and tree cutters in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. This experience exposed him to the devastating impacts of natural disasters on the region, prompting him to shift his career toward coastal restoration and protection. Today, Pezold is a prominent local stakeholder in coastal protection and restoration, working tirelessly to educate others about the importance of these efforts and to ensure the inclusion of underrepresented communities in these discussions.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Blaise Pezold, conducted by Lauren Leonpacher, provides a comprehensive overview of Pezold's life, experiences, and work in coastal restoration and protection in Louisiana. The interview begins with a brief biography of Pezold, including his early experiences with the wetlands and his career shift following Hurricane Katrina. The conversation then delves into Pezold's work in coastal restoration, highlighting his efforts to educate others about the importance of these initiatives and to include underrepresented communities in these discussions. Pezold emphasizes the importance of a whole-system approach to coastal restoration, acknowledging the interconnectedness of the region's ecosystems and the need for comprehensive solutions. He also discusses the national implications of coastal restoration, arguing that Louisiana's land loss should be treated with the same urgency as a foreign invasion. The interview concludes with Pezold expressing his hopes for a sustainable future for coastal Louisiana, underscoring the importance of continued efforts in coastal restoration and protection.