03. February 2025

Epidsode 133 - The Wonder Years - Ft. Allyson Blackwell Montgomery of the Children's Museum of Southwest Louisiana - Find the Good News with Oran Parker

I often think fondly on my childhood when my young mind relished in the thrill of discovery—the joy of stumbling upon something new through play, and the quiet spark of curiosity that grew into awe and wonder. These special moments, where learning and imagination meet, have been the foundation upon which many of my lifelong passions took root and flourished, and it is a comfort to know that there is place that is working passionately to provide the impetus for future generations to have that same creative platform.

In this episode of Find the Good News, I had the privilege of speaking with Allyson Blackwell Montgomery, the Executive Director of the Children's Museum of Southwest Louisiana. Allyson holds a deep and inspiring conviction: that through learning, we grow, and in growth, we find the power to change the world. Her work with the Children's Museum is driven by the belief that every curious question, every shared discovery, and every child given the space to dream brings us closer to a better, brighter future.

Her passion is woven into the museum’s next great chapter—their soon-to-open home at Port Wonder, a state-of-the-art facility located on the lakefront in Downtown Lake Charles, Louisiana. Port Wonder will be more than a destination; it will be a sanctuary of exploration, connection, and hands-on learning for children and adults alike.

The Children's Museum's of Southwest Louisiana invites children and families to step into a world where hands-on learning is expansive and exciting. Sharing space with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ Nature and Science Center, it offers a rare opportunity to experience the intersection of education, environment, and play.

As Allyson and I spoke, it became clear that this vision for the Children's Museum and Port Wonder is deeply personal. For her, it’s about more than just exhibits and programs—it’s about creating a place where the seeds of curiosity can take root, where learning becomes a lifelong adventure, and where families can reconnect with each other and the magic of discovery.

So, I invite you to sit with me in this heartfelt conversation with Allyson Blackwell Montgomery and explore the inspiring mission of the Children's Museum of Southwest Louisiana, its incredible new home at Port Wonder, and the transformative belief that when we nurture curiosity and promote lifelong learning, we grow—and through growth, we literally change the world for the better.