Florida Matters

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Florida Matters is WUSF's weekly current affairs show that explores the events, ideas, politics and issues and that matter to Floridians.

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    • Apr 16, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 31m AVG DURATION
    • 482 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Florida Matters

    Earth Day is near, the price of no paid leave, Tampa Bay's tattoo culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 46:50


    Next Wednesday is Earth Day. On “Live & Local,” we explore how the focus has shifted from education to action, and what meaningful change looks like. Plus, segments on paid family leave and the world of tattoo artists.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Gabbard's vision for St. Petersburg, DeSantis' map quest, making school buses safer

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 48:37


    Public safety, affordability and planning are among the issues front and center for St. Petersburg mayoral hopeful Brandi Gabbard. We sit down with the veteran city council member and talk about her vision for the city.Also, a closer look at the upcoming Legislature special session on redistricting and the safety of school business.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    SNAP goes sugar-free, cop's firing questioned, Black Maternal Health week, your comments

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 48:41


    Next week's new limits with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are meant to encourage healthier eating for those receiving benefits. But not all high-sugar items are excluded, raising eyebrows about consistency. An official with Feeding Tampa Bay walks us through the changes.Then, why are concerns about transparency, retaliation and leadership growing louder at the Tampa Police Department? We also learn about the importance of Black Maternal Health Week.Finally, a block for you ... or at least a few of your letters and voicemails on some recent "Live & Local" segments that touched a nerve.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Coastal port loophole? Plus, how are you fueling? Drawing a strait line, and heading for third

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 48:35


    Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35ggEnvironmental advocates celebrated a win in Manatee County last month with a new law blocking a plan for a new cruise port. But is the Terra Ciea Aquatic Preserve safe from development? Not everyone thinks so.We also get some local perspective on the ceasefire in Iran, the pressure at the gas pump and something called “third spaces.”

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    Raising awareness of local news, the Beatles' real nowhere man

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 48:29


    It's Local News Day, which highlights the work journalists do to keep their communities informed. On “Florida Matters Live & Local,” we sit down with Tampa Bay area newsroom leaders about the challenges facing community journalism. Then, we learn about a missing Beatle.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    An (endangered) species argument, CAIR-FL pushes back, moon beaming, sold on ChatGTP

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 47:08


    Floridians love their coastlines, but a federal move to weaken endangered species protections in the Gulf is sparking legal action and heated debate over energy security. We'll break down what's behind the lawsuit and what it could mean for marine wildlife.Also on the show: a new domestic terrorism law, NASA's Artemis II mission and a homeowner who used ChatGPT to sell his house.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Bondi's sudden exit, bookworms crawling, TPS and caretaking, a Frosted Flakes bass, chef's kiss

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 48:41


    Pam Bondi was praised publicly, then fired weeks later. We unpack what led to her departure as attorney general, her record in Florida and how the Epstein case shadowed her time leading the Justice Department. Then, we share some great recent reporting from the WUSF staff.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Taxis over Tampa, Florida voting changes, dangers of hot cars, playing ball indoors again

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 48:47


    Gridlock between St. Petersburg and Tampa could soon have a high-tech alternative. When will that eVTOL arrive? Plus, what listeners think about Florida's SAVE law, the tragedy of kids left in cars and the Trop knocks are back.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Inside the MacDill scare, nesting their case, spare the timeshares, Gasparilla gets a drums up

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 48:41


    An improvised explosive device found near Tampa's MacDill Air Force Base has triggered a complex investigation. We hear what's new. Then, more on a landowners' lawsuit involving the Florida bird, some timeshare clarity and the return of the Gasparilla Music Festival.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Legal experts review Supreme Court arguments on birthright citizenship

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 58:34


    On a special edition of "Florida Matters Live & Local," the focus is squarely on one of the most consequential legal questions facing the country: birthright citizenship.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Are you ready to rocket? Plus, a lawsuit for the birds, Zested interest, strange Florida fiction

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 48:41


    By Wednesday night, astronauts may be trucking to the moon for the first time in 53 years. On “Florida Matters Live & Local,” we get the latest on the Artemis II mission. Plus, the Florida scrub jay faces a legal challenge, and we chat with The Zest's Dalia Colón.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Fighting for street-legal art, blue-night specials, a low-water mark, recipes lost and found

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 48:43


    Florida muralists are challenging the state over removed sidewalk artwork. Ideas to survive the drought. A culinary anthropologist's hobby. And a new social media segment on politics.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Birth plan on trial, tariffs on tap, SRQ flies through shutdown, Century Club equestrian

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 48:35


    A woman says her own birth plan was overridden when a hospital sought legal intervention. The case was argued before a judge over Zoom – while she was in labor.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    HIV patients get temporary relief, school vaccines and protests, New College film, Betty Castor

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 48:42


    Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a measure to keep funding going for lifesaving medication. But the coverage runs out in July. Hence, the legal back-and-forth over the AIDS Drug Assistance Program continues.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Work to do in Tally, Tampa's gold medalist, questioning St. Pete's boom, Pilates pop-ups

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 49:13


    Despite passing a slate of high-profile bills, Florida lawmakers couldn't resolve some of their biggest disagreements. Where do things stand and what's up with special sessions planned for next month? "Florida Matters Live & Local" knows who to ask.This segment mentions suicide around the 46-minute mark. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, call or text 988 or go to 988lifeline.org for help.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Red-light cameras on trial, turning a new reef, sea for yourself, learning and living outdoors

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 48:34


    A judge recently found one red-light camera ticket unconstitutional. With dozens of intersections under electric eyes, broader impacts of the ruling remain unclear.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Burdens of proof for voters, terror labels, power pole honor roll, a local centennial

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 48:37


    “Florida Matters Live & Local” takes a closer look at a pair of controversial bills heading to the governor's desk. One covers voter ID and the other allows the state to label what groups are terrorist organizations.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Travelers' turbulance, Rays the roof cost, Sun worshippers wanted

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 47:57


    Spring breakers are hitting the skies as fuel costs surge and economic uncertainty grows. Airline expert Darryl Jenkins warns he can't confidently predict where fares are headed.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Spicing up the mayor's race, sports engineering, Legislative lookback, a real piece of quirk

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 48:41


    East Tampa native Anthony Gilbert is best known online as a food influencer exploring hidden culinary spots. Now he's bringing a full plate of ideas to local politics. We get a taste of his plans.Also on the show, why Florida Poly wants to get into college athletics, lawmakers are readying for overtime and a love letter to the state's underbelly.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Talking with Lt. Gov. Collins, Dalí news that will melt your clocks, Cocoa's Car-uso

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 48:40


    Lt. Gov. Jay Collins dials into “Florida Matters Live & Local” to talk about why he's running for governor and review some of his legislative priorities. We'll also hear an analysis of the crowded gubernatorial race, news from the Dalí Museum and an opera singer who sells Corvettes.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    AG candidate José Javier Rodríguez, ICE and H-1B visas, a World Cup love letter

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 48:37


    Former state lawmaker José Javier Rodríguez wants to be Florida's Attorney General. He faces steep odds in a very red state. On “Florida Matters Live & Local,” he makes his pitch. Guests also discuss the latest on ICE arrests in Florida and the upcoming World Cup of soccer.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Playing us for fuel, chilly reaction to H-1B freeze, getting away Scot-free

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 47:36


    In just a week, gas prices have shot up to almost $4 for a gallon of regular unleaded. "Florida Matters Live & Local" takes a closer look at what's driving up the cost of gas and how you are dealing with it.We also talk to a USF professor about the halt in H1-B visas at state schools and a Florida author reads from her latest Scottish Regency romances.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    A Juul casket, Councilor Naya Young, educational mermaids, cram job at the Capitol

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 48:47


    Hillsborough schools are rolling out smart sensors that detect vape clouds, the Legislature's last week, meeting a Tampa City Council member and taking a dive at an aquarium in Lecanto.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Jolt for Lakeland residents, bill deletion, response to Welch, risky med cuts, women take field

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 48:44


    Lakeland residents face higher electric bills, while a Senate bill transferring USF Sarasota-Manatee land to New College vanishes — leaving both energy costs and campus plans in uncertainty.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    St. Pete mayor looks ahead, nonprofits and citizenship checks, Jackson House rebirth

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 48:30


    Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35g

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    Lessons in school change, Tampa's role in Iran, a new teen curfew, postpartum psychosis

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 48:45


    "Live & Local" jumps into four controversial issues: school closures in Pinellas, war planning at MacDill, the new teen curfew in Palmetto and treatment gaps for maternal mental health.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    The Iran attack's many layers, fight for student journalists, Legislature at the stretch

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 48:41


    University of South Florida Middle East specialist Arman Mahmoudian weighs in on the bombings in Iran and retaliatory strikes.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Buildings with a pinkish hue, solving cold cases, a very fast learner

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026 48:42


    "Florida Matters: Live & Local" brings you stories of art, justice and hometown pride this week.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    A conversation with USF's new president, and a look at kitchen-table economics

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2026 48:42


    So what goes on during the workday of a university president during his second week on campus? Moez Limayem is here to talk about the challenges ahead.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Fresh approach to hunger, urchin care for reefs, growth reality check, prison to prevention

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 48:44


    From expanding fresh food access and restoring reef ecosystems to measuring regional growth and mentoring youth, "Florida Matters Live & Local" explores solutions shaping Tampa Bay's future.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Swiftie Lit 101, Tampa Bay eyes on Iran, Black History Month reprises

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 48:43


    From "Folklore" to "Tortured Poets," USF students can take a classical look at Taylor Swift's lyrics. "Florida Matters Live & Local" signs up for a closer look.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Tigers in their town, fair days in Hardee, sweet strawberries

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 48:52


    Florida hosts 15 baseball teams for spring training, but no town has been "all in" and for so long as Lakeland, where the Detroit Tigers have stuck around since 1934.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    'Ought to be' an e-bike law, down on the freezing farm, an NFL journey goes full circle

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 48:40


    The death of a classmate in an e-bike accident leads teens to help draft a bill on helmet safety with a state representative. Plus, how growers dealt with the recent cold and a new career for a former Baltimore Raven.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Protecting our wildways, Capital earmarking, online threats, punky-glory in Gainesville

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 48:36


    Polk County recently rejected a planned truck refueling stop near a key wildlife corridor crossing over Interstate 4. It's a pretty big deal for animal and environmental advocates.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Counties coping with potential cuts, grading Florida's gun laws, in a shriveled state

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 48:43


    With the elimination of property taxes still on tap in Tallahassee, a study shows billions of dollars in potential losses, with some counties standing to lose more than others.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Sarasota's Super conductor, saving the Everglades, measles go viral, adore ♥️ explore

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 48:37


    The Sarasota Orchestra's music director had the time of his life during Bad Bunny's Spanish-language Super Bowl halftime, plus segments on Everglades preservation, measles and Valentine's Day fun.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    New College, Phillippi Creek, 2 launch stories, campus hunger, raptor rescues

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 48:47


    A couple of college challenges are in the spotlight. We get an update on the New College-USF controversy and learn about the growing concern of student food insecurity.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    A look at the Gas Plant District's past and future, student walkouts, trail praisers

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 48:42


    It's hard to have a conversation about what a place can be without talking about the way it was. Such is the case with the current Tropicana Field site. Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    English-only testing, touching base in Tally, a Was pause, shaping Tampa's Black story

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 48:43


    Will the state's English-only driver's tests make roads safer? We look into the rule change on "Florida Matters Live & Local." Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Death penalty in focus, 'granny flats,' Bad Bunny's halftime, Super Bowl yummies

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 48:30


    We're a month into the 2026, and Florida is continuing its accelerated schedule lethal injections for condemned prisoners, carrying forward a record pace from the previous year. Three death warrants are signed after a record-breaking 19 in 2025.Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Welcoming Mayor Castor, cold hands and green thumbs, Tampa Bay's 'Timeline'

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 48:39


    Tampa Mayor Jane Castor sits down for a wide-ranging conversation, tackling everything from the Rays stadium talks and public safety to immigration, transportation, and the city's future.Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    The smoking alarm, cleaning up beads, Ybor City safety, capybaras and friends

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 48:40


    From Florida's failing tobacco policies to giant rodents munching lettuce, we cover the state's public health challenges, community cleanups, street safety, and a cafe that's more about animal education than lattes.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Shooting for the moon, inside lawmaking, an app for that, sweet tradition

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 48:44


    You may not have noticed, but NASA is about to launch a crewed mission to the moon. Let's catch up on the latest Artemis mission, which could lift off as soon as this weekend.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Charters and closures, both sides of the tax, glacial recognition, Tampa's gold star

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 48:21


    Pinellas County is making big moves to close and merge under-enrolled campuses as charter schools seek space in public schools through the state's Schools of Hope program.Families and educators are weighing the benefits of expanded school choice against the disruption caused by closures and consolidations. We start the show by unpacking what's at stake.Also in the news: property taxes. Should lawmakers reduce or phase them out? A pair of lawmakers take calls from listeners and explore the trade-offs between tax relief and maintaining quality of life.And what's going on with this chilly weather? And what's with all this talk about snow in the Tampa Bay area this weekend. We turn to someone who knows.Finally, Tampa will soon shine on the global stage as native sled hockey player Declan Farmer heads to Milan with his sights set on a fourth Winter Paralympics gold medal.

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    Understanding grief attacks, looking up at heroes, Ybor safety, Black romance on silver screens

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 48:38


    It's more than just depression. It's exponential bereavement that can feel like panic attack, bringing deep sadness and a feeling of losing control. Let's learn about grief attacks.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Twin Cities' toll on Floridians, and a treasured tradition

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 48:36


    On "Florida Matters Live & Local," we discuss how immigration raids in Minneapolis have captured national attention — stirring questions and fears around the country — including the Tampa Bay area.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Drilling instruction, a Capitol update, novels from the sin bin, kicking ice in Tampa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 48:38


    Florida leaders from both parties are urging President Trump to keep the offshore drilling moratorium in place, warning of risks to the Gulf's environment, wildlife and coastal communities.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Rough seas for port proposal? Plus, avoiding immigration scams and a long to-do list

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 48:38


    An idea for a cruise terminal near the Skyway is drawing early resistance as environmental groups question whether the promised benefits outweigh the risks to one of Tampa Bay's most fragile coastal areas.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Sarasota schools, immigration and fear; Hillsborough College will play ball with Rays

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 48:42


    Immigration enforcement and education collided this week in Sarasota, where a narrow school board vote drew hours of public testimony and intense debate.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    Renner makes his case, fallout of data dousing, digging in the past, a teacher to remember

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 48:52


    Former House Speaker Paul Renner is running for the Republican nomination to be Florida's governor. He talks about his plans with "Florida Matters Live & Local" host Matthew Peddie.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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    On MLK Day: Reflecting on Black pioneers who carried the dream

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 47:59


    "Florida Matters Live & Local" spends the hour looking at the lives and legacies of lawmakers John Lewis and Arthenia Joyner, author Zora Neale Hurston, and the enduring words of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

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