Pine Island Experience

In this episode, we meet the delightful Darcy Conner—Travel Advisor, Small Business Owner, and passionate travel matchmaker. Helping people is what brings her joy, and that shines through in every trip she helps plan. Whether you're dreaming of ocean cruises, river adventures, resort getaways, or fully customized travel experiences, Darcy brings deep expertise, personal insight, and a whole lot of heart to every itinerary. Her mission? To take the stress out of planning and add in service, service, and more service—at no extra cost to you. ✨ Learn how Darcy's insider knowledge and preferred access to travel perks can turn your next vacation into something unforgettable.

In this episode, we sit down with Sheila Breech, of Kickstand's Pub & Grub.  When Sheila and Dave Breech rolled into Pine Island, they brought more than restaurant know-how—they brought heart, grit, and a deep love for community and motorcycles. In this episode, Sheila shares how Kickstand's Pub & Grub came to life, filling a big gap for a biker-friendly restaurant. Now a favorite hangout for locals and visiting bikers, Kickstands serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a welcoming vibe and top-notch menu. They've revitalized the space with major renovations, a brand-new stage, and island-wide delivery. More than that, they've made it a place where the community gathers—hosting charity events, supporting local causes, and creating a space that feels like home.

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Piper, of 1st EnviroSafety, Inc.—a pioneering Pine Island company founded in 1997 and operated by his grandparents, Dr. Ted and Dr. Ann Tidwell. Built on innovation and integrity, the company has developed a line of powerful yet safe solutions, including the Purely Green cleaning and degreasing products, Bio-Wash for boosting agricultural yields and profits, and the Purely Green Bio-Pesticide. These eco-friendly products are non-toxic to humans and animals, offering a smarter alternative to conventional chemicals. Daniel shares what it means to carry on his family's mission and how he's working to eliminate cancer-causing products from everyday life.

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Chedester, owner of Pine Island Pest Control, to hear how he went from dedicated employee to passionate business owner. Andrew shares what drives him: a deep love for the Pine Island community, a commitment to keeping homes safe, and a belief that real service starts with real relationships. It's more than pest control—it's about people. Don't miss this inspiring conversation.

In this episode, we're joined by two wonderful members of Pine Island Community Church's Hugs Program and Food Pantry team — Pat Downes and LaDonna Lippincott. Alongside their dear friend Dort Koetje, these women are affectionately known as “the Marthas” for their heart of service and gift for hospitality. Each week, they spend Mondays cooking meals with love and care, and on Tuesdays, they bring the prepared dishes to the church, setting up and serving them right next to the Food Pantry. It's a labor of love, fueled by faith and a deep commitment to serving God's people. Tune in to hear their inspiring story — and to discover the special reason they've earned the name “the Marthas.”

In this episode of The Pine Island Experience Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Jennifer Bennett, the vibrant and creative force behind Island Flair—a one-of-a-kind artist boutique nestled in the heart of colorful, artsy Matlacha. Jennifer set out with a dream: to build a lively, welcoming space where local island artists could showcase their work and where makers could come together to teach, learn, and share their crafts. Join us as Jennifer shares the inspiring story of how she turned that dream into reality, her deep-rooted love for the Pine Island community, and the island spirit that continues to fuel her passion.

Get ready to meet Zac and Thristina Woodhams, the dynamic duo behind Pine Island Pawn and Jewelry in Matlacha! They joined us on the podcast to share their journey of opening the shop, their passion for the community, and their excitement about welcoming customers. From explaining the ins and outs of the pawn business to showcasing unique jewelry and art, Zac and Thristina are bringing something special to Pine Island. Tune in as they share their story, their vision, and what makes their shop a must-visit. Listen on your favorite podcast app or visit https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

Don't miss this heartwarming episode! We sit down with Lisa Fromm, owner of Sandy Paws Island Dog Bakery & Wash, and her son Codee as they share their journey from passionate dog lovers to running a dream bakery. Lisa opens up about the inspiration behind Sandy Paws, the challenges of turning her vision into reality, and what's next for their growing business. Tune in on your favorite podcast app or visit https://pineislandexperience.com to listen! For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

This podcast is about 2 Fish Inn,  a beautiful, newly remodeled Inn located in the heart of St. James City on Pine Island, Florida.  Two of the owners, Brett and Holly Valentine talk about what it was like to join in partnership with the current owner and assist in the remodeling project.  2 Fish Inn offers single bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, separate bedroom/bath and private patios. The inn offers numerous guest amenities such as a heated pool, water and land sports and new boat slips.  2 Fish Inn is the perfect retreat for those wanting to explore the area, walk to friendly restaurants, go boating, fishing, or simply relax by the pool. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jimmy and Jennifer say Pine Island is the best place ever and they believe they have the most wonderful clientele.   They have everything you could possibly need for fishing in their shop, from new beginners to moms and sons to seasoned pros.   The team at Pine Island Bait and Tackle are so helpful to their customers so much so that their customers come back happily showing them the fish they caught thanks to them.  It's no surprise that their customers have become their friends and family.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Do not miss this podcast about Wendy White, an artist of many talents who is very happy, extremely positive and in love with continuous learning.  Wendy says yes to every challenge and she always succeeds.  She is a very bright light in all of her endeavors so it is no surprise that she describes her painting in this way;  “Painting is a consistent source of inspiration. As each canvas goes forth in the world they are gifts of light for all to enjoy.” To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This podcast is about a local family business on Pine Island, A. Gonzalez Nursery and Landscaping.  They have thousands of different Palms, Plants, Flowering Shrubs, and much more.   They have been landscaping and delivering quality plants since 2013 while receiving outstanding customer reviews.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Erica's passion for butterflies began the day she bought 18 Milkweed plants,  the required host plants for caterpillars of the monarch butterfly.  Erica was mentored and now she mentors others on all things butterflies.  As a vocalist, she is extremely talented and engaging.  To see Erica perform, look for announcements of the musical duo, Joy Ride or the full band, Cover Story SWFL.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Captain Chuck Downes has spent many years as an educator and as a charter captain.  His passion is teaching people how to fish.  Captain Chuck is offering 4 weekly seminars at the Pine Island Community Church located at 5320 Doug Taylor Circle in St James City. The sessions are every Wednesday from 6:00pm until 8:00pm, January 29 through February 19.  To reserve a spot or if you have questions, text or call Capt Chuck at 609-412-7328. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Roland Ruocco is a working artist using a diverse array of media and artistic styles with his goal to create beautiful and thought provoking artworks. You will see his beautiful murals on Pine Island and throughout Lee County.  If you are lucky, you may even get to see him creating a mural.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This is about the Ancuram Family Medicine Team,  Best of Pine Island Winner 2024.  The team includes Dr Daniel Hanley, his wife, Nadia Hanley, Alisha Hatch, Nurse Practitioner, Dorothy Holy, Office Manager, Naye Cedeno, Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist,  Joy Stafford, RMA and Phlebotomist, Latricia Dick, Medical Assistant, Abbey Mrozinski, Medical Assistant and Leah Miller, Front Desk.   Dr. Hanley's approach tends to be practical, common-sense oriented, and logical.  He is results-oriented - as he says, “the proof is in the pudding.” He takes a holistic, empathic view of the patient, as well as their living and support situations.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This podcast is about St John Carpentry Remodels and Repairs.  Jay St John and his son Conner talk about their mission, commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.  As Best of Pine Island Winners for both 2023 and 2024 in cabinets and flooring they are truly living up to their mission. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Captain Will Olds, USCG Master Mariner and owner of Matlacha Boating Adventures describes how he got started running excursions.  He uses his history teacher background to update his passengers often stopping to speak during the excursions.  Be sure to read the Google reviews and you will understand why 75% of his cruisers are repeat customers. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Chris Krueger, Manager and Becky Patterson, Inventory Manager talk about Pine Island's hardware store, Vision Ace Hardware, located near the center in Bokeelia, Florida.  In a very short time after joining the Vision Ace Hardware Stores, this island hardware store won the Ace 2022, Pinnacle Performance Retailer Award.  It is no surprise that they won as visitors are always greeted with helpful, happy and knowledgeable team members To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, the three original Pipe Dream band members,  Daniel Cook, Isaac Holeva and Bob Lombardo talk about how they got together and how much they enjoy harmonizing and playing music together.  The Pipe Dream band is very popular on Pine Island, having won the Best of Pine Island Band in 2023 and 2024. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Ned Bruha tells his story of how he got started in wildlife control.  Ned believes in humane wildlife control and prevention and doing it right the first time.  He gets them out and keeps them out without trapping, relocating, killing or poisons. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

In this podcast, the delightful Miss Fran Poppell shares her life growing up, raising a family and living on Pine Island.  She describes attending the one room school house on Punta Blanca Island and the many changes she witnessed as Pine Island grew.  She talks about her love of sewing from 11 years of age that continues to bring her joy.  Fran became an artist learning to paint, craft plaques and furniture, make jewelry and create pieces of art using clay and gourds keeping her busy today inside her art studio. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

In this podcast,  Lecia Scott talks about how much she loves her job.  She has been a bartender for Froggy's for 18 years and she cannot imagine being anywhere else.  She wants to make drinks and make sure her customers are happy.  When you've had the pleasure of being served by Lecia and when you listen to her on this podcast, it is no surprise that she is a multiple recipient of The Best of Pine Island Bartender award. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Marvia Cicchino, owner of the Pine island Family Hair Salon, describes what it has been like styling hair for almost fifty hears on Pine Island.  Marvia had always wanted to be a hair stylist and she continues to follow her dream.  She recently renovated her hair salon into a modern, highly functional and beautiful salon.  Marvia is an artist and she has included many of her paintings on the new salon walls. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast,  Steve Soloway talks about his construction company, Consumers Contracting Services, an innovative, unique full-service construction company. You will hear how Steve builds a trust relationship with his customers and you will hear his vision for the company.  Steve grew up in construction and he is a realtor.  He realized there was a need for a builder who could build a quality house specific to the customer's need. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Pastor Michelle Browne and Jen Jennings speak about the Pine Island Community Church.  Pastor Michelle describes the many services the community church offers and Jen, the Manager of the PICC Thrift Store, shares how she enjoys managing the thrift store.  You will hear how much these wonderful individuals love supporting the Pine Island community.  They will tell you, ‘Loving our neighbors is something we take seriously at PICC.  We believe in LOVE in ACTION.  We are a serving community'. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Pine Island Auto Repair and Patty's Coastal Decor sit side by side at 8336 Stringfellow Rd in St. James City located quite near the VFW.  This is a story about a lovely married couple who support each other in their businesses and when you meet them, you will see they are quite happy working together.  Bob will tell you his Pine Island Auto Repair stands head and shoulders above the rest. They provide quality service and repairs for your car and light truck.  Patty's Coastal Decor is filled with the latest finds always changing, new items, vintage decor,  handmade creations, and high-end items at a very reasonable price.  Patty says you will not find this type of inventory anywhere else. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Rich and Carol Evans created a beautifully decorated and customer friendly laundromat, the Ship Shape Laundry Co.,  with Electrolux top rated washers and dryers.  There are lovely, bright customer waiting areas inside and out, including a kids section with puzzles and coloring books. Carol and Rich will keep everything Ship Shape and they look forward to getting to know the people on Pine Island.  They would love it if you would stop in and say Hi. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

This podcast addresses many of the questions people have when they have been contacted to be on the podcast.  This is a short podcast containing questions and answers as well as a description of the process. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Tommy Kramer relocated his business, Kramer's Kutting Edge to 7573 Raymary Street in Bokeelia.  He and Suzanne remodeled the new shop and had it up and running in February 2024.  Tommy can sharpen pretty much anything.  He has over 37 years of locksmithing experience and he has hard to find keys in stock.  He knows how to program, cut and duplicate most car keys/fobs/remotes at around half of the price of the dealer.  He will replace your watch batteries right on Pine Island.  These are a few of his services and he will gladly give you advice and tips as part of his service. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jodi Trusty found her new passion after her children were grown seven years ago.   It's baking.   Jodi recently opened the Sweet Floret Cakery located in the Matlacha Historic District.   Jodi says she is ecstatic to be opening a shop in the Matlacha Community, … something she envisioned for years.  She tells us her heart is to serve, bring JOY, love, comfort, and a sense of togetherness, through her little shop and the confections that await.  And Jodi says, she can't wait to meet you! To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Kevin Farley and Michelle Wendt tell their amazing story.  They are both artists.  Kevin is a stand-up comedian and Michelle is a writer and director so it was only natural that they fell in love with the artsy community of Pine Island.  They recently opened the Salt & Poppy Boutique at the center by the 4-Way Stop in Bokeelia.  Michelle will tell you that it's not a place you just run through because she is hoping you find joy in the unique quality of the store where you can find everything from pet supplies to genuine Kevin Farley merchandise.  And Kevin says, he just wants people to come to the store for unique gifts, things you won't find anywhere else. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Aaron Barreda,  the Commander of American Legion Post 136 and Co-Founder, Co-Chair of GPIA, Greater Pine Island Alliance.  The American Legion Post 136 was outstanding in recovery relief after Hurricane Ian and the post was awarded Best All Around Post in Florida 2022-2023.  In October 2022, Islanders Aaron Barreda and Jay Sanderson began developing the Greater Pine Island Alliance to work within the community to: Reduce duplication of services, Maximize efficiencies, Connect volunteers and nonprofits providing services with those in need, and Develop funding sources and provide material support for recovery. In December 2022, the Greater Pine Island Alliance was incorporated as a nonprofit 501©3 organization with the mission to provide leadership and coordinated management of the long-term recovery efforts for Greater Pine Island and to provide long-term assistance to individuals and businesses affected by the disaster who do not have adequate personal resources to meet their basic needs.  As Aaron repports in this podcast, the goal is to return every survivor home. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Korrie O'Donnell,  Master Electrician and Owner of Sound Electric in Saint James City, FL on Pine Island tells her story of becoming a master electrician and starting her own company.  Korrie rebuilt after Hurricane Ian and Sound Electric came back bigger and stronger.  Korrie says her most important asset is her team.  Her customer service pledge is to be upfront, be prompt, show up on time and take care of the customer no matter what arises.  Korrie and her team live up to that pledge as demonstrated in the wonderful reviews. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jeanine Williams, artist and owner of Material Green tells her story of her graphic design background and how she has worked for years in visual design and design.  A 30 year resident of Saint James City, she talks about relocating her Material Green studio and boutique to 5101 Pine Island Rd NW across from Publix.  Jeanine loves textiles and she especially enjoys fabric mixes and upholstery.  She enjoys finding unusual things, including furniture, fabrics, curtains, lampshades, pet beds, antiques and vintage items turning them into an amazing one of a kind and original.  Jeanine faithfully practices her belief: re.do re.new re.use To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Jerry Hook describe what it's like to be an Audubon Eagle Watch Volunteer on Pine Island, Florida.  Jerry talks about his travel experiences in the United Sates and the world photographing nature, wildlife and landscapes.  His amazing trips include Africa, Antartica, the Arctic, South and Central America, Canada and 46 of the 50 states. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Commander Scott Zilch tell how proud he feels being part of the VFW.  He discusses the many post activities and the services that are offered to the veterans.  Commander Scott says the mission is very simple. We foster camaraderie among United States veterans of conflicts overseas, we serve our veterans, the military, and the communities, and we advocate on behalf of all veterans. We ensure that veterans are respected for their service, receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for their sacrifices that they and their loved ones have made on behalf of this great country. The VFW Post 4353 lives up to it's Motto, “No One Does More For Veterans” To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Aimee and Sarah tell their story of how they fell in love with Pine Island and opened Spots Ice Cream, Crepes and Sauces in Bokeelia, just north of the 4 way stop.  They want the community to come in and tell their story and enjoy the delicious ice creams, Sarah's homemade sauces, and their wonderful sweet and savory crepes.   As Sarah and Aimee say, we want it to be the ‘spot' where everybody wants to come and connect and enjoy sweet things. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Chef Becca and Chef Bo of Coastal Eats discuss how they craft unforgettable culinary experiences with fresh coastal dishes for their customer's special moments.  Becca and Bo are personal chefs offering dining experiences in North Captiva, Useppa, Pine Island and Cape Coral.  While they offer so many wonderful personalized chef services from plated meals, buffets, heat and serves, fresh catches and cooking classes, they are constantly pitching new ideas to each other.    To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode is about Stephen M Longest, a Realtor who goes above and beyond for his customers.   Listen to Stephen tell his story of how he discovered Pine Island and how he made a decision to become a Realtor.  Stephen lives by his slogan, “More than Just a REALTOR®” and Pine Islanders have agreed by voting for him.  He was recently awarded,  2023 Best of Pine Island Real Estate Agent. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Matt Anderson, Licensed Beekeeper is the owner of Anderson Bee Removal and a firefighter and paramedic living in Bokeelia, Florida.  Matt is a state licensed beekeeper trained in the safest and most effective ways to remove bees and relocate them to a new, safe environment. Matt says he loves this island and loves the community and getting to meet people, getting to help people and just do right by them. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Nicole Cicchino photographer and owner of the  Matlacha Post Office and Gallery & Gifts.  Nicole has worked in the Matlacha Post Office for over 22 years and has owned the business for over 6 years.  Nicole loves taking pictures of nature on Pine Island because it makes her happy and she loves making the pictures the best they can be for other people to enjoy.

This episode features Joe and Lisa Perry, the owners of Carmen's Kayaks.  This is the story of how they discovered Pine Island and met Carmen.  From their very first meeting with Carmen to multiple trips with their family and Carmen over many years,  you will discover this journey was meant to be.  Joe and Lisa purchased Carmen's Kayaks in May 2022. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Dennis Borcky, the owner of Froggy's.  Dennis knew Froggy's was a great place thanks to the culture that Romana built.   Six months after taking over Froggy's, hurricane Ian brought 4 ft of water into the building.   Dennis used his construction experience and turned the disaster into an opportunity, redesigning and rebuilding Froggy's while maintaining the vibe of Pine Island. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Captain Cathy, Charter Boat Captain and owner of Captain Cathy Eagle Boat Tours.  Captain Cathy has spent more than 40 years delighting her passengers with her wildlife knowledge and her talent for attracting dolphins during her tours. Captain Cathy, known as the Dolphin Whisperer, is also a musician and writer for The Pine Island Eagle and Nautical Mile Magazine. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features John Petrus, owner of That BBQ Place in Matlacha.  John creates Central Texas-style barbecue using salt and pepper smoked slow over oak wood.   After hurricane Ian,  the restaurant needed to be rebuilt however, his smoker survived.  John felt he had a responsibility to feed people stating,  “People needed to be taken care of and I had the equipment to feed people”.  John fed people for almost one hundred days under a tent in front of his restaurant. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Jeff Abbott a painter and figurative artist from Bokeelia, Florida. Jeff has been delighting people with his Figurative Artwork for more than twenty years.  Much of Jeff's life-sized 3D artwork surrounds his home in Bokeelia and he says half the fun is in finding his home.  Jeff believes in this saying, “Whatever you can imagine, you can create” which is why there are no limits to his creations. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Jasmina Pirganoski describing how she and her husband Artur discovered Matlacha, Pine Island. They were so impressed, they found themselves visiting just about everyday and they decided to open their new store in Matlacha called, Tropical Jewelry and Matlacha Hammock Company.  Jasmina is amazed by the friendliness and closeness of the Matlacha island community.   She loves her little store because she enjoys meeting happy people everyday from all around the world. For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Onofrio Demattia, an award winning master jeweler who designs and creates original jewelry. Onofrio tells his amazing story of being a master jeweler.  After being born in Italy, studying and working in New York, and cruising throughout the world, he talks about discovering Pine Island and how he fell in love with Matlacha.  Onofrio opened Onofrio D Oro Fine Jewelry Boutique in Matlacha and he was quickly greeted with hundreds of customers.  He is living his vision of designing  an extraordinary boutique. For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features Larry and Linda Solinger telling their story of how they transformed their gift shop into a Matlacha gift shop gallery.  It's a wonderful story of a resilient couple who love Matlacha and how they built a new shop in Matlacha's honor. For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This episode features a courageous woman, Marnie Wiszewski, who dreamed of creating an animal shelter and then one day her dream came true.  Learn about her inspiration, Thomas O'Malley, a beautiful stray black cat who needed an isolation room when none existed.  Thomas brought good luck changing the outcome for cats lucky enough to be brought to Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary. For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com