By Katherine Fenstermaker

Southwest Louisiana carries both the beauty of our coast and the burden of its storms.

Few leaders embody that reality more deeply than State Representative Ryan Bourriaque.
In Pecan Island, surrounded by marsh, tide, and tradition, I sat down with Ryan to reflect on leadership born of this land and the future of Louisiana.

What began as an interview became something more—a conversation that revealed the soul of leadership.

It became the story of a man shaped by the storms and soil of Cameron Parish, guided by childhood teachers who believed in him, and strengthened by the countless hands he’s shaken in service to southwest Louisiana and the state at large.

Special thanks to former State Senator Fred Hoyt for hosting us at his Pecan Island camp.

No setting could have been more fitting—a place where culture, community, and coast converge, reflecting the heritage we all work to protect.

Some conversations stay with you.

This one was a gift.

Ryan revealed himself as he is: a trustworthy and humble steward— of our coast, of its message, and of the people who call it home.

He carries both the complexity and the beauty of Louisiana life with the care and respect it deserves.

I left grateful—for the chance to share that table, to reflect on what it means to lead with humility, and to celebrate an impactful leader whose heart is firmly rooted in his community.

Excited to share this conversation soon on FUELED, Leading Louisiana: Concrete and Character.

Catch up on the season: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmFzXOPjoptC1K5qfqI0N7xi2oh6gK_yY&feature=shared