The Florida Madcaps

Send us a text*Correction in the podcast. The wreck of the Confederate Steamship Madison in Troy Spring is from the Civil War not WW2*This week Ryan and Danielle discuss some of the minor mishaps that have occurred while they have explored the springs and how to avoid repeating them.  From unexpected thunderstorms to paddleboard falls we cover some of the more significant things that have gone wrong.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week Rachael aka Lady Florida (https://www.instagram.com/_lady_florida?igsh=Nml5czJrZDVpNzZk) discusses enjoying and responsible behavior in Everglades National Park.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss Chris and Chelsey's two day hike on the Pioneer Trail in Jennings State Forest.  The flagship trail in Florida State Forests and one of the best in the state.  Located in Northeast Florida not far from Jacksonville, it is a bucket list hike.  Info on the trail can be found here:https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/Jennings-State-Forest/Pioneer-TrailPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textWhile Chris and Chelsey are out and about in Florida, Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport joined the podcast.  This week we discussed the things to know when visiting the springs this summer and some of our favorite ones to enjoy.To learn more about the springs or to purchase a Florida Springs Passport go to:  https://floridaspringspassport.com/Each purchase benefits a couple of organizations that advocate for the springs here in Florida.Ichetuknee Springs State Park Maphttps://ichetuckneesprings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022-Ichetucknee-Springs-Park-Map.pdfPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps share even more of their favorite Florida happy places in the environment.  Torreya State Park, Lime Sink Run, and more are discussed.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss the various state and national forests in Florida and some of the rules and policies that govern them.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis weekend (April 5th-6th) is the Florida State Park love fest occurring in multiple state parks around the state.  Activities include various activities from sign waving, hiking, potluck picnics, and more, depending on the event location.  To find out what is going on in a park near you, go to:  https://savefloridaparks.com/.Many remember the surprise attempts to develop our Florida State Parks last August.  Some lawmakers have put forth bills that prevent that from happening again, yet there are loopholes that could have us defending our state parks all over again in the future.  That is why during this love fest, we are supporting our parks and letting our legislators know we want the bill that prevents this development from ever happening again!  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps Discuss their hiking adventures in St Johns Water Management District Properties and we mention those that we have yet to explore.  To see the full list check out this link:https://www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/list/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss paddling on the Rainbow River and Ichetuknee River!  Both offer some great views of clear spring runs.  Unfortunately, there is a bill that is going through the legislature that is going to remove rules that prohibit single-use plastics and containers on these rivers.  Follow the Florida Excursionist and The Florida Springs Council on social media to see how you can make a difference!Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week Ryan, Jessica (IG walkandpaddle), and TJ a manatee biologist from the Save the Manatee Club discuss responsible behaviors when encountering manatees in the various waterways of Florida.As the Manatee Biologist for Save the Manatee Club, Tiare 'TJ' Fridrich works to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats by collaborating with stakeholders statewide, advocating for stronger protections at all government levels, leveraging the best available science to guide conservation efforts and improve management strategies, and by addressing gaps in data collection efforts and public education. TJ leads the Guardian Guides Program, a voluntary training program for manatee ecotourism operators that promotes manatee stewardship and aims to minimize disturbances from commercial manatee-viewing activities while encouraging education and conservation. TJ holds a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of Rhode Island and a Master of Professional Science in Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management from the University of Miami.Learn more about Jessica's adventures at https://walkandpaddle.com/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss some of their paddling adventures on Florida waterways.  There are some recommended and not-so-recommended paddle spots between us.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textAfter traveling hundreds of thousands of miles and visiting Florida's natural areas, the Madcaps discuss which parts of Florida bring them joy.  This episode covers:Topsail HillRock Springs RunMagniloa LakeThe EvergladesEmerald CoastPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss the trails within some of the properties of the St Johns Water Management District.  These are rarely used by comparison to some of the major trails in Florida and offer glimpses into lesser known natural areas.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week Ryan and Cathy of the Florida Spectacular Podcast (check them out!) interview Federico Acevedo and Max Chesnes both who played a role of providing information to the public during the Florida State Park Development fiasco and discuss the events during this podcast.Some info about our guests:Federico Acevedo is a passionate wildlife photographer and birder, using the power of visual storytelling to connect Florida's community with our region's unique fauna and flora. He enjoys adventuring in the outdoors, and visiting our state and national parks.Max Chesnes is the climate and environment reporter for the Tampa Bay Times, where he writes about state lands, environmental justice, pollution, wildlife, intensifying hurricanes and more. Before joining the Times in 2023, Chesnes covered environmental issues for Treasure Coast Newspapers and the USA Today network, reporting on Lake Okeechobee, the Indian River Lagoon and Florida's Everglades. He's a 2023 journalism fellow at Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy and a recipient of several environmental writing awards. He studied both journalism and sustainability at the University of Florida and is licensed to fly drones.You can listen to the Florida Spectacular Podcast here:  https://floridaspectacular.buzzsprout.com/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week is the first half of the live recording of a collaboration podcast between Ryan of The Florida Madcaps and Cathy Salustri of The Florida Spectacular Podcast.  Recorded in front of an audience.  TJ of the Save The Manatee Club discussed all things manatees.  The Florida Spectacular Podcasthttps://floridaspectacular.buzzsprout.com/Save the Manatee Clubhttps://savethemanatee.org/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps take turns discussing their favorite paddle destinations in Florida.  There are too many for this episode so expect more!Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week Bree from @hiberniahistory (filling in for the ever adventuring Sunshine State Seekers) and Ryan discuss their favorite destinations along Florida's First Coast from the little-known area of Hibernia to the plantation ruins around Ormond Beach.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textOur guest this week can be found on Instagram at:  https://www.instagram.com/hiberniahistory/The Nike Missle Site Festival details can be found at:https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/nike-site-festival.htmThis week the Madcaps discuss the rest of their Everglades experiences such as hiking the pine rocklands, the Nike Missle Site, and Shark Valley.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textOn this week's episode the Madcaps camp at Everglades National Park and discuss their experiences hiking and enjoying the fascinating Everglades Ecosystem.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps continue the discussion of their encounters with wildlife while enjoying the outdoors in Florida.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss the wildlife encounters that they have had while exploring Florida from freeloading raccoons to swinging monkeys.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week Ryan & Ryan share their personal lists of what was good & bad in 2024 as well as a "wish list" of what they would hope to see happen in 2025.If you would like to also make a difference in the New Year attend the DEP Harm Rule hearings at 9:00 AM on January 6th, 2025 in Tallahassee or submit a comment.  Details can be found at:  https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsharmrulePlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textBecome a Florida Springs Council Informed Member - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/informed-membershipLearn about Springs Water Quality Plans - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsbmapsLearn about Springs Harm Rule Lawsuit - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsharmruleSenate Bill 552 - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2016/552Florida Springs by Dr. Chris Meindl - https://upf.com/book.asp?id=9780813079158Find your Legislative Delegation Meetings - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/legislativesessionPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textDownriver Project Who is Opposing the Apalachicola River Drillinghttps://www.downriverproject.org/The Apalachicola River Keeper who is suing to stop the exploratory drilling:https://apalachicolariverkeeper.org/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis afternoon SB 80 The “State Park Protection Act” has been dropped today.  In this very short episode Ryan Smart and Ryan Worthington weigh in with their initial thoughts on the bill as filed. SB 80 State Park Protection Act Bill Textchrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/80/BillText/Filed/PDFPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textBills discussed during the episode:Senate Bill 50 - Nature-based Methods for Improving Coastal Resiliency - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/50Senate Bill 56 - Weather Modification Activities - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/56Find your Legislative Delegation Meetings - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/legislativesessionResource for seeing which Florida elected official is receiving contributions from industries associated with pollution:Vote Water Dirty Money Project - https://votewater.org/dirty-money/Releases of the speeches that we mentioned during the episode:Senate President Ben Albritton Prepared Remarks - https://flsenate.gov/PublishedContent/Offices/2024-2026/President/Documents/11_19_24_President_Ben_Albritton__x2019;s_Organization_Session_Remarks_as_Prepared_for_Delivery.pdfHouse Speaker Daniel Perez Prepared Remarks - https://myfloridahouse.gov/api/document/house?listName=Press%20Releases&itemId=898Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textWhere to find your delegation meetings:  1000 Friends of Florida's Legislative Delegation Meeting Page - https://1000fof.org/upcoming-events/FDACS Commissioner discussing his plan to sell off Florida Wildlife Corridor conservation lands:  Wilton Simpson Talking about Selling off Conservation Lands -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEGCm7UiEjM&t=1455sThe bill that was filed to allow conservation lands to be sold and removing any public involvement from the process:Senate Bill 1620 "Surplus Lands" - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/1620Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textIn this episode, the Madcaps joined by Ryan Smart, a Florida politics insider discuss the upcoming strategy to inform and organize environmental advocates for the upcoming 2025 legislative session and to oppose further attempts to develop our conservation lands.   This means along side the usual Madcaps episodes we will be rolling out weekly legislative-focused episodes as well.   These episodes will be titled “As Bad As It is” and will feature discussions about the legislative process in Florida, how it affects our environment, and what we can do about it.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps are joined by Florida Trail Association (FTA) Advancement Committee Chair Tiffany Bright to discuss the upcoming FTA Brews for Views event where anyone can support the Florida Trail Association by grabbing a beer and scanning the barcode on a provided cocktail napkin at the following locations:Nov. 16 – Deviant Wolfe, Sanford (Central Florida Chapter)Nov. 17 – Infinite Ale Works, Ocala (Sandhill Chapter)Nov. 19 – Wicked Barley, Jacksonville (NFTB Chapter)Nov. 22 – Calusa Brewing, Sarasota (Suncoast Chapter)Nov. 23 – Azalea City Brewing, Palatka (Black Bear Chapter)Also we cover opportunities to get involved with the FTA (which all the Madcaps support).  For inquiries simply email chelseys@floridatrail.org for more information.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textOur fellow (and humble) Madcap Chris Stevens talks about his latest book he co-authored with Sandra Friend, the 5th edition Florida Trail Guide.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps Reflect on the trails that we have individually or collectively found challenging either due to weather, location, or trail conditions.  Tune in to hear some great hiking stories and spots!Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textIn a continuation of a previous episode that we did, the Florida Madcaps and guest Imani discuss the interesting things they have seen along the roadside during our combined hundreds of thousands of miles of road-tripping throughout Florida.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textWhile Florida may not be known for the leaves of its forests changing color in the fall, what can widely be seen is the amazing fall wildflowers in Florida.  This week the Madcaps with guest Bree @hiberniahistory on Instagram discuss the various wildflowers and where they can be seen in Florida!Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps interview Captain Karl R. Deigert who is spearheading the grassroots initiative to get a Constitutional Amendment on the ballot that will give legal standing to protect waterways from pollution or over pumping.Karl stated during the podcast that volunteers are needed.  If you would like to sign a petition or get involved go to: https://www.floridarighttocleanwater.orgPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week's guests are the folks at Picnic and Paddle who organize clean-up efforts around Florida's waterways.  Yet the clean-up is only part of the experience, it is also about experiencing Florida's natural wonders as refreshments and a recreational aspect is a part of the event.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textIn this week's episode, the Madcaps discuss some of the different myths, tales, and beliefs that we have encountered and question them.  From zig-zagging to save yourself from charging gators to why everything around St Augustine is named Matanzas we delve into what is abnormal about the normal.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Florida Madcaps discuss parks in the southwest corner of Florida focusing on Fakahatchee Strand State Park and Collier-Seminole State Park.  There are some unique hiking experiences as well as opportunities to enjoy some iconic Florida flora and fauna to enjoy in this area from Ghost Orchids to the Florida Panther.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textThis week the Madcaps discuss various aspects of recreating in Florida and encounters with venomous snakes.  Our special guest, Bree, shares important information about our valuable snake population.  Bree can be found at @hiberniahistory and @using.my.outside.voice on Instagram.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a textPlease subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.Just a few days ago plans to develop a few Florida State Parks were uncovered and made public.  The plans where uncharacteristic of the Florida State Park mission of resource based recreation.  Massive hotels, golf courses, pickleball courts, and more were planned and in some circumstances would drastically alter some of the park's habitats.  In this episode, the Madcaps are joined by Casey Darling Kniffinn the Conservation Policy Director for the Florida Wildlife Federation discuss the concept plans for nine Florida State Parks and the consequences of completing such developments as well as offer some suggestions for those who want to oppose the development plans.The Florida Wildlife Federation has a blog about the development plans for the parks which can be found here: https://floridawildlifefederation.org/florida-state-parks-threatened-by-development/ Casey is the Conservation Policy Director for the Florida Wildlife Federation and previously served as the Advocacy Coordinator for Florida Oceanographic Society. She earned a B.S. degree in Biology from Florida State University and a M.S. degree in Marine Biology at the College of Charleston. Casey serves on the Friends of the Everglades Science and Policy committee as well as the Young Friends committee.  She is the co-lead of the River Kidz, a youth advocacy group focused on clean water in the St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon and is a Rivers Coalition board member. She is passionate about environmental policy, advocacy, and science along with a commitment to protecting Florida's diverse ecosystems. Born and raised in Florida, she enjoys snorkeling, paddling, and hiking with her family in Hobe Sound. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps discuss the various carnivorous plants in our state and some of the environments they thrive in.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.If you want beautiful views of the rapids of the Hillsborough River and CCC construction or amazing hiking near the Green Swamp you can find plenty to do at both of these state parks and they are less than half an hour from each other.  This week the Madcaps discuss their experiences at these Central Florida state parks.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps have a special guest, Imani to discuss whether gatekeeping benefits Florida's natural areas.  With Florida surpassing a population of 23 million and the boost in post-pandemic popularity of springs, beaches, and trails many are upset with the condition that they are in and place social media as the culprit. This week we discuss our individual views on gatekeeping.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Florida Madcaps discuss what can be expected when visiting Myakka River State Park.  This park has it all:  CCC history, gators, birding, trails, and wetlands.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps discuss the importance of clean-ups and the events that they have participated in.   There are a variety of organizations that host clean-up events, or you can do it solo while you you spend time in nature.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps discuss some of the state forests in Northeast Florida and some of the recreation opportunities in each one.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps have Fletcher Jacob, the president of the Florida Speleological Society (FSS) discuss the basics of caving in Florida.  More info on the FSS can be found at, https://www.floridacaving.com/Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps discuss Cedar Key.  This episode covers the history, food, and unparalleled beauty that make Cedar Key one of the amazing destinations of Florida.Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This is our first reposted episode!  Almost a year ago we published this summer hiking & recreating safety episode and decided to republish it due to the relevance that it has this month with the multiple heat warnings that have been issued so far.  It has been slightly modified for your listening pleasure.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en

Send us a Text Message.This week the Madcaps discuss some of the public lands that make up Indian River Lagoon as well as the recreational opportunities that exist there.  No episode would be complete without the discussion of the environmental challenges that exist from the past to the present.  Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated!Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcapsQuestions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.comRyan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en