The Voices Shaping Our Community
Real Voices. Local Legends. Southern Soul.
Featured Interviews
Every month, we sit down with incredible individuals who embody the heart of Beaufort—long-time residents, community leaders, culture keepers, and quiet heroes who’ve made a lasting impact.
From shared memories of the Sea Islands to the untold stories of our streets, our interviews are all about preserving history while building connection.
Beaufort Voices Highlight
Beaufort Roots, Public Service, and Community Legacy
In this episode, Mike McFee reflects on how his parents’ lesson to always give back shaped every chapter of his life. Though his father’s naval career kept the family moving, Beaufort remained home — a place where summers on Hunting Island and time with his grandparents instilled a deep sense of belonging.
That foundation carried him into a career in real estate, decades of community service, and eventually public office, where he has served Beaufort since 2008. From guiding redevelopment projects to supporting the arts, Mike reminds us that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about showing up, staying engaged, and giving back to the place you call home.
Civic Service, Preservation, and a Life of Community Leadership
Edie Rodgers shares her journey from moving to Beaufort in 1968 to becoming a leader in civic service and historic preservation. She recalls her role in developing Royal Pines Country Club and Marsh Harbor Marina, her path from attending city council meetings to serving on Beaufort City Council, and later three terms in the South Carolina House of Representatives. Edie highlights the importance of community involvement and constituent service, and encourages younger generations to “pay attention, participate as you can, and find your niche” in public life.
She also reflects on memorable moments along the way, including hosting Vice President George H.W. Bush at the historic Secession House and creating her “political wall” of signatures from leaders who visited. For Edie, these experiences underscored the value of preserving history while actively shaping the community’s future
A Century on the Land: Claude on Farming, Family, and the Changing Lowcountry
Claude shares vivid memories of growing up in Seabrook, from boyhood train rides to life in Beaufort’s historic Secession House. He reflects on his family’s century-long farming legacy—shipping vegetables across the East Coast, managing hundreds of workers, weathering hurricanes, and ultimately closing the farm after 100 years.
Alongside farming, Claude paints a picture of mid-20th century Beaufort life, with soda fountains, drive-ins, and a tight-knit community. His stories, full of humor and history, capture both his personal journey and the transformation of Beaufort County over the past century.
The Newest Chapter:
Anita’s Story of Legacy & Love
In this soulful conversation, Anita Singleton-Prather — known to many as Aunt Pearlie Sue — shares a childhood rooted in faith, family, and the legacy of Beaufort’s Freedmen’s Village.
Inspired by her grandmother, Anita became a voice for Gullah culture, founding the Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater and bringing these stories to national stages. With wisdom, humor, and conviction, she reminds us why storytelling matters—and why truth must be told whole.
Episode 5
Robert Anderson
Sit down with Robert Anderson to explore Beaufort’s past, his family legacy, and his career in fire service. From childhood memories in Beaufort to working in his family’s funeral business, Robert shares how his journey led him to serve the community in multiple ways.
Episode 6
J. Edward Allen
SIt down with local legend J. Edward Allen to reflect on the rich history of Beaufort, SC, and its evolution over the years. From its tight-knit community to the significant changes the area has undergone, this conversation explores what makes Beaufort a unique place to live and work.
Episode 7
Billy Keyserling
From Paper Routes to Politics: Billy Keyserling's Beaufort Story In this heartfelt episode of Chambers Chatter, we sit down with former Beaufort Mayor Billy Keyserling as he takes us on a journey through his unforgettable childhood, early jobs, and civic leadership in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Episode 8
Marlena Smalls
Sit down with the legendary Marlena Smalls, known for her incredible role in the Hallelujah Singers, as the founder of the Gullah Festival, and for her unforgettable part in the movie Forrest Gump. Marlena takes us on a moving music journey, sharing her life story, the rich traditions of Gullah culture, and behind-the-scenes Forrest Gump stories.
Episode 9
Connie Hip
Ghost Tours, Leadership & Beaufort Legacy, we sit down with one of Beaufort’s most impactful community leaders. Connie Hip shares her Beaufort legacy through decades of leadership, service, and storytelling — including her iconic 28 years leading ghost tours through the historic streets of the Lowcountry.
Episode 10
Larry Scheper
Meet Larry Scheper, a lifelong tennis coach from Beaufort SC who is known for giving back through tennis. Larry’s mission has impacted hundreds of kids through his free tennis clinics, nonprofit work, and dedication to the Beaufort community. His passion for youth tennis has helped shape the lives of players from age 2 to 93.
Episode 11
Skeet von Harten
The Legacy of Skeet von Harten In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Skeet von Harten, a Beaufort native, Marine Corps veteran, and beloved civic leader. From his humble beginnings in Beaufort, South Carolina, to earning two Bronze Stars, a Silver Star, and a Purple Heart during his 20 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, Skeet shares lessons on leadership, integrity, and service.
Episode 12
Robert “Gibbs” McDowell Jr.
Sit down with Robert “Gibbs” McDowell Jr., the author behind Drift One, to explore the real story of Driftwood — one of Beaufort’s most unforgettable local legends. From wild childhood memories and bowhunting adventures to World War II heroism, mystery, and folklore, this episode uncovers a life truly too big for one town. Learn about the inspiration behind the book. Hear about the upcoming film adaptation.
Why These Stories Matter
These aren’t just interviews—they’re living history. Every voice carries a memory, a lesson, a piece of Beaufort’s soul. Through Chambers Chatter, we’re keeping those stories alive—for the next generation, and for anyone longing for a place that feels like home.
Help Keep the Porch Light On
Chambers Chatter is built on heart, community, and storytelling that matters. To keep sharing these voices, we’re inviting kind sponsors who believe in what we do.
Sponsorships start at $100/month (minimum of 6 months).