There are a number of New Orleans businesses that are as much a part of the unique vocabulary of New Orleanians as “muffuletta” and “poboy.” Some of them – like K&B and Schwegmans – are in the “aint dere no more” category. One New Orleans institution that is still here is what we call either “Oxner” or “Oshner.” However you say it, everybody in New Orleans knows what you mean. Its real title is Ochsner Health System.

Ochsner is one of the largest independent academic health systems in the United States with 12 hospitals, more than 40 health centers, over 15,000 employees.

The President and CEO of the company, Warner Thomas, joins Peter on this edition of Out to Lunch. 

Another local medical institution you may have heard of is the New Orleans Bio District. The Bio District was created in 2005 to develop businesses connected to bioscience and encourage them to start up or relocate to New Orleans.

Peter’s also lunching today with the Bio District’s Chairman and Xavier University’s Senior Vice President for Resource Development, Dr. Gene D’Amour.  

Photos on this page taken at Commander’s Palace by Cheryl DalPozzal.