Josh McManus: Jackson’s Comeback Story

What does it take for a struggling city to turn the corner?

In this episode of The Empower Podcast, Grant Callen sits down with urban strategist and entrepreneur Josh McManus to discuss the rise, decline, and revitalization of American cities, and why he believes Jackson still has enormous potential.

Drawing on decades of work in places like Chattanooga, Detroit, Cleveland, and New Orleans, Josh explains the long-term forces that have reshaped cities across America and why Jackson’s challenges are not unique. He argues that the key to renewal is restoring “the right to rise” — helping people believe they can build a better life where they are. Cities thrive when people embrace a culture of abundance rather than scarcity, rejecting the idea that one group’s success must come at another’s expense.

They also discuss the redevelopment of the former Chastain Middle School campus on Northside Drive and how projects like The Redeemer’s School can help anchor neighborhood renewal. If you care about the future of Jackson, Mississippi, and the future of American cities, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.