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Action News Jax investigative reporter Jake Stofan reports on the cancelation of a controversial Guana River land swap deal in St. Johns County.
It's the week's biggest headlines, from St. Johns County's search for a schools superintendent to Jacksonville's request for more DOGE oversight.
St. Johns County Commissioner Clay Murphy joins us in studio!
St. Johns County approves townhomes project, REAL ID enforcement starts today, and the Airport Authority wants the state to give them money.
St. Johns County School Board announces semifinalists for the next superintendent, K9 for Warriors expaning, and a Ferrari catches fire one hour after someone purchased it.
Lori Matthias and her husband had tired of Atlanta traffic when they moved to St. Augustine, Florida, in 2023. For Mike Waldron and his wife, moving from the Boston area in 2020 to a place that bills itself as "the nation's oldest city" was motivated by a desire to be closer to their adult children. They were among thousands of white-collar remote workers who migrated to the St. Augustine area in recent years, transforming the touristy beach town into one of the top remote work hubs in the United States. Matthias fell in love with St. Augustine's small-town feeling, trading the hour-long commute she had in Atlanta for bumping into friends and acquaintances while running errands. "The whole pace here is slower and I'm attracted to that," said Matthias, who does sales and marketing for a power tool company. "My commute is like 30 steps from my kitchen to my office. It's just different. It's just relaxed and friendly." Centuries before becoming a remote work hub, the St. Augustine area was claimed by the Spanish crown in the early 16th century after explorer Juan Ponce de Leon's arrival. In modern times, it is best known for its Spanish architecture of terra cotta roofs and arched doorways, tourist-carrying trolleys, a historic fort, an alligator farm, lighthouses and a shipwreck museum. In St. Johns County, home to St. Augustine, the percentage of workers who did their jobs from home nearly tripled from 8.6% in 2018 to almost 24% in 2023, moving the Northeast Florida county into the top ranks of U.S. counties with the largest share of people working remotely, according to U.S. Census Bureau figures. Scott Maynard, a vice president of economic development for the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, attributes the initial influx of new residents to Florida's lifting of COVID-19 restrictions in businesses and schools in the fall of 2020 while much of the country remained locked down. This article was provided by The Associated Press.
On tonight's program: President Trump changed the “Gulf of Mexico” to the “Gulf of America.” The Florida Legislature has now passed a bill to make the change mandatory in all government and school references to that body of water; Governor DeSantis and the Florida House have been at odds over what form tax cuts should take and the Senate leadership is now offering a compromise solution; The Florida Senate has approved a Black History Museum in St. Johns County although the House has yet to move on the proposal; And the Senate version of the new state budget includes $50 million to funnel more produce from the state's farmers to the food insecure.
St. Johns County awarding 2.4 mil and Florida Man Friday!! by 904 Now
St. Johns County government in HOT water over what is being called a "sham" investigation. by 904 Now
There are few wrestlers who reach the level of controversy of former WWE Superstar Matt Riddle. Since leaving WWE in 2023 (Riddle said he was fired) the former UFC fighter turned pro wrestler has traveled the world. Riddle has wrestled for various promotions around the globe. Most recently, Riddle was at the Florida Man Games in St. Johns County where I caught up with him. In this episode, we discuss Riddle's most difficult opponents. You'll be shocked who he names. We also ask Riddle about former WWE owner Vince McMahon. McMahon has been back in the headlines in recent months with massive speculation that he's considering starting a new entertainment company. It's unclear at this point if that company would be specifically pro wrestling or some other form of entertainment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What transferable skills from your past career could make you a top performer in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Veronica Wilen. Veronica was recently recognized as one of the Top 500 Agents by Jacksonville Real Producers 2025, Veronica Wilen is a powerhouse in Northeast Florida's real estate market. With over 70 successful transactions and more than $65 million in sales volume, she specializes in residential single-family homes, helping buyers—especially those relocating from out of state—find their dream homes in Ponte Vedra, St. Johns County, and beyond. A Nocatee Certified Agent and resident since 2016, Veronica has an insider's perspective on what makes Nocatee stand out among Florida's top master-planned communities. While she sells throughout Northeast Florida, 80% of her listings are in Nocatee, making her an invaluable resource for both buyers and sellers looking to navigate this sought-after community. Veronica also dives deep into the importance of preparation, communication, and staging when working with clients. Whether you're a new agent or an experienced one looking to elevate your game, her insights on professionalism, strategy, and continuous learning will inspire you to refine your craft. Highlights 00:00 - 12:49 Veronica's Journey to Real Estate Success Born in Kazakhstan and raised in Germany before moving to the U.S. Family history and the decision to relocate from the Soviet Union to Germany Transitioning from psychology to finance and later into real estate Moving to Florida as an au pair and pursuing an MBA Challenges and rewards of building a real estate career from the ground up 12:50 - 28:30 Applying Project Management to Real Estate How project management skills translate into real estate success Why communication is 95% of a project manager's role Preparing for client interactions with a structured and professional approach Using data-driven strategies to help clients make informed decisions How organization and discipline build client trust and improve transactions 28:31 - 36:45 Choosing the Right Brokerage for Growth Veronica's experience moving through different brokerages The importance of mentorship and a strong support system Why Engel & Völkers First Coast was the perfect fit for her The value of high-level collaboration with experienced agents How technology and training contribute to professional development 36:46 - 50:57 The Power of Staging and Presentation The impact of staging on faster and higher-value home sales The psychology behind buyer perception and first impressions Working with professional stagers vs. DIY staging solutions Virtual staging as an alternative when budgets are tight Small but impactful changes that make a home more marketable 50:58 - 01:10:45 Mastering Client Relationships and Negotiation The importance of follow-ups and staying present with clients Turning potential buyers into long-term, repeat clients The impact of having a strong CRM system for client management Navigating difficult client situations with psychology and empathy Why real estate is more than a transaction—it's about people's lives 01:10:46 - 01:14:48 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Consistent The emotional rollercoaster of lost deals and lessons learned Why follow-up speed and urgency can make or break a transaction How a business mindset elevates an agent's success The role of social media and video content in attracting clients Continuous learning and growth through mentorship and networking Conclusion Quotes: "Providing value is always very, very important. People will remember what you bring to the table." – Veronica Wilen "Project management and real estate have so much in common—communication, organization, and being prepared are key to success." – Veronica Wilen "Your home is not just a financial transaction—it's where you build memories. Helping people find the right place is incredibly rewarding." – Veronica Wilen To contact Veronica Wilen, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veronikini Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicawilenrealtor/ Website: https://veronicawilen.evrealestate.com/ Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best. #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstatePodcast #VeronicaWilen #EngelVolkers #TopRealtor #HomeBuying #LuxuryHomes #FloridaRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #ProjectManagement #SuccessMindset #RealtorLife #HomeSellers #StagingTips #BusinessGrowth #Networking #FollowUp #DreamHome #RealEstateTips #Professionalism #RealtorJourney
How does having a strong network impact success in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy sits down with Jessica Swearingen. Jessica is a seasoned realtor with 12 years of experience, embarked on her real estate journey through property management before thriving under one of the largest investment companies for six years. Currently associated with Ponte Vedra Club Realty, Jessica has transitioned her focus exclusively to sales. With a diverse clientele ranging from $200k to $2.5 million, she takes pride in her commitment to communication, responsiveness, and transparency. A Jacksonville, FL native, Jessica enjoys meeting new people and finds fulfillment in guiding them through their significant transactions. Whether you're buying or selling, she goes above and beyond, ensuring dedicated support throughout the process and maintaining lasting connections beyond the deal closure. Jessica shares her journey from an artistic background to becoming a powerhouse in real estate, starting in property management and transitioning to investment sales before thriving in traditional real estate. She discusses the importance of communication, responsiveness, and transparency—values that have shaped her approach to client service. Jessica also highlights how she leverages networking and community-building to generate business, including the creation of a thriving 5,200-member women's networking group. If you're a real estate agent looking to elevate your game or a buyer/seller searching for an agent who truly goes above and beyond, this episode is for you! Highlights 00:00 - 15:20 Jessica's Real Estate Journey From property management to investment firms Overcoming health challenges and finding real estate Lessons learned from early property management days Transitioning from leasing to full-time sales The importance of confidence and adaptability 15:21 - 30:45 Keys to Success in Real Estate The power of follow-up and responsiveness Setting clear expectations for buyers and sellers Transparency builds trust in real estate transactions The impact of communication and negotiation skills How personal safety plays a role in real estate 30:46 - 46:15 Marketing & Networking Strategies Using social media and personal branding effectively The role of open houses in today's market Leveraging local community groups for business growth How Jessica built the St. Johns BFF Networking Group Building long-term relationships through networking 46:16 - 57:30 Pricing & Negotiation Strategies How to price a home correctly in today's market The dangers of overpricing and market perception When and how to adjust pricing to attract buyers The psychology behind buyer and seller expectations Balancing competitive offers and market conditions 57:31 - 1:05:11 Real Estate Tips & Advice for Agents Why new agents struggle and how to overcome challenges Creative ways to connect with potential clients The power of giving back through customized gifts The importance of mentorship and continuous learning How to handle difficult clients and situations 1:05:11 – 1:07:19 The Mindset of a Top Realtor Why consistency is the key to long-term success How to stay motivated during slow market periods The importance of self-discipline and organization Building resilience in a competitive industry Final words of wisdom for agents and homebuyers Conclusion Quotes: "I treat every transaction like it's happening for me. I truly care and will do everything I can to make it successful." – Jessica Swearingen "Confidence is what leads you to places. Walk in confident, and you'll be fine." – Jessica Swearingen "If you don't put yourself out there, you're not going to get anywhere. Being uncomfortable is how you grow." – Jessica Swearingen "Networking isn't just about referrals; it's about building a community that supports each other." – Jessica Swearingen To contact Jessica Swearingen, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.f.swearingen?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessica.swearingen_realtor_ Website: https://jessicaswearingen.com/ Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best. #RealEstate #Networking #RealtorSuccess #HomeBuying #PropertyManagement #JacksonvilleRealEstate #RealEstateExcellence #HomeSelling #RealtorLife #InvestmentProperties #BuyersAgent #SellersMarket #TopRealtor #StJohnsCounty #RealEstateNetworking #HomeBuyingTips #WomenInRealEstate #CommunityBuilding #LuxuryHomes #FloridaHomes
Sheriff Rob Hardwick addresses accusations of a deputy who allegedly made unseemly remarks on social media towards St. Johns County's homeless population.
From Growing Pains to Garden Hoes: St. Johns County's Land Shortage, Beer Busts, and a Doggone Heroic Rescue by 904 Now
Blooming Health with Michelle Colee and Christina Embry: How Wildflower Clinic is Growing to Meet St. Johns County's Needs by 904 Now
Bread Crimes, Tree Fines & Airport Designs… Only in St. Johns County!!! by 904 Now
A community effort is underway to save the historic St. Johns County jail, where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was held after demonstrating against segregation.
St. Johns County Fight Night is just a month away, pitting the Sheriff's Office and St. Johns County Fire Rescue head to head! Deputy Krissie Padgett and Chris Naff, SJCFR PIO, fill us in on all the deets by 904 Now
Mosquito Control District officials voted to rescind $1,000 holiday bonuses because their attorney determined they probably weren't legal.
Venardos Circus receives honor, and St. Johns County talks traffic by 904 Now
Carl Cricco, the new CEO and President of the St. Johns County United Way sits in with us to talk about his mission with United Way, and how they're making a difference this season! by 904 Now
St. Johns County Superintendent plans to retire
WOKV's First Responders of the week are Sgt. Austin Reese, Cpl. Matthew Westover, Dep. John Collins, Dep. Joseph Mailloux, and others involved in preventing a St. Johns County resident from self-harm in a September incident.
YOU DECIDE 2024 coverage continues, as Vicky Oakes joins JMN to discuss early voting in St. Johns County.
Despite internet issues in the studio, we are still joined by St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick to talk to us about the four juveniles that escaped and were captured, and the Hardwick Haunted House.
YOU DECIDE 2024 coverage continues as early voting for the 2024 federal election opens in Duval County today (St. Johns County too). Supervisor of Elections Jerry Holland joins JMN to discuss available voting locations, voting security, and strategies on how to vote efficiently -- Duval County has a large ballot with multiple local and federal issues, amendments, etc. so voters are encouraged to review a sample ballot before coming to the polling location.
Joy Andrews, St. Johns County Administrator in studio.
St. Johns County braces for Hurricane Milton. We'll talk about evacuations, closures and areas that typically get hit hard,
Sheriff Hardwick gives an update on Hurricane Milton storm damage and recovery efforts in St. Johns County, and issues a request for residents to stay inside and off the roads to allow emergency services and power restoration crews to do their work.
Kelly Wilson joins JMN to update storm preparation and evacuation details in St. Johns County, where pre-Milton rainfall has already saturated the area and weather conditions are likely to deteriorate as Milton storms across the state.
St. Johns County will have the opportunity to vote on tax increases again, and Serenata Beach Club goes up for auction.
Don't miss this interview if you have teens! Emma Benoit is showing her powerful documentary in St. Johns County this week. It's a story of surviving her own dark thoughts, and through the film she is bringing hope and healing to so many across the country. The film is called My Ascension and we're honored to have Emma in studio with us today.
A woman was fatally struck on I95 in St. Johns County. An intern's suggestion on tracking down criminals gets the green light, and a new report follows the money in St. Johns County races
Jennifer Wills talks with us about the importance of BRAVE for young people and their mental health here in St. Johns County
FDEP proposes changes to Anastasia State Park out of nowhere, and with little time for opposition. St. Johns County voted to replace two incumbents last night in close races across the board.
Feds raid local restaurants and St. Johns County residents PISSED over trash collection. And it's FLORIDA MAN FRIDAY!
Mike Davis, Troy Blevins, & Producer Amanda are joined by Jim Priester, candidate for St. Johns County Sheriff "This Evening."
St. Johns County trash service may get canned after disastrous first week
From soaring DUI arrests in St. Johns County to a scathing report on affordable housing, our First Coast Week In Review panel explores the week's top headlines.
Love. It doesn't always get the likes, shares, and clicks in the social media world we live in today, but it is a major part of what the St. Johns County community is all about. Jill Gause Davis talks with us about her experience of our community wrapping their arms around her and her family in the most desperate times of need. Her story and gratitude is expressed in her book "The Small Town with A Big Heart"
St. Johns County Commission warns they may be raising property taxes in 4-1 vote
There was a lot of talk about the potential for higher taxes across St. Johns County after a recent commission vote. We talk with County Administrator Joy Andrews to clear up the confusion.
Learn from Julie Haden (Coordinator for Student Support Services) about: - Successfully implementing PBIS across multiple school levels - Creative ways to boost teacher and student buy-in - Strategies for using discipline data to improve school culture - And more! Tune in to learn from Julie
St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick joins us in Studio and it's Florida Man Friday!
Law Enforcement Life Coach / Sometimes Heroes Need Help Podcast
This week I sat down with a friend, former four term sheriff of Saint John's County, David Shoar. David is running for Florida State Senate for Dist 7, which encompasses, Flagler, Saint John's, Putnam, and Volusia County. David and I discussed his life of service and his decision to enter the race for State Senate. We discussed leadership and getting back to a time of common sense government. He is a man who has dedicated his life in the service of others. David served his country in the Army during Desert Storm and his community. David served over 30 years in law enforcement taking care of the residents of Saint Johns County and the City of Saint Augustine where he first started his law enforcement career. SHOW SPONSOR - ON TARGET CLAIMSThis episode is being brought to you by "On Target Claims" - From Setback to Settlement On Target Claims is a team of certified and experienced Public Adjusters in Florida who have helped thousands of insured get the maximum amount for their residential, commercial, wind, water, fire, hurricane, mold, yacht and marine claims.We have the knowledge and experience to properly investigate all potential damages including all of the hidden damages that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. Since insurance companies are notorious for conducting haphazard damage investigations using preferred contractors to determine your loss our claims adjusters will create an accurate inventory of every item that was damaged so that we can prepare a detailed computer generated estimate to substantiate the true value of your loss and get you the settlement you deserve.https://www.ontargetclaims.com561-208-1775954-329-0399Thank you for taking the time to give this podcast a listen. If you would like more information on other Law enforcement Life Coach initiatives, our "Sometimes Heroes Need Help" wellness seminar or our One-On-One life coaching please visit :www.lawenforcementlifecoach.comJohn@lawenforcementlifecoach.comAnd if you would like to watch the interview you can view it in it's entirety on the Law Enforcement Life Coach YouTube Channel : https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCib6HRqAFO08gAkZQ-B9Ajw/videos/upload?filter=%5B%5D&sort=%7B%22columnType%22%3A%22date%22%2C%22sortOrder%22%3A%22DESCENDING%22%7D
From star athlete, to coach, athletic director and mentor, we talk to local legend Quinterrance Cooper about St. Augustine High Athletics, and the RESET program that he co-founded to change the trajectory of young people's lives in St. Johns County. You don't want to miss this one!
Vicky Oakes, St. Johns County Supervisor of Elections, joins Mike Davis and Producer Amanda "This Evening" to update us on Elections 2024.
How is St. Augustine's tourism industry stacking up against increased global competition? Susan Phillips President and CEO of the St. Johns County Visitors & Convention Bureau sits in to break it all down with us.
The can't-miss event of the year for fans of professional wrestling is taking place at World Golf Village the weekend of June 8-9. River City Wrestling Con has moved out of its old home at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds and this year will be held in St. Johns County for what's expected to be a better fan experience.
In May 2021, 13-year-old Tristyn Bailey left her home in St. Johns County, Florida, and was never seen or heard from again. The main suspect was one of her classmates. NOTE: At 15:35, we accidentally refer to Aiden as “Adam.” Jillian is currently out on Maternity leave and will return in mid-June (This episode was recorded prior). Please subscribe to our new podcast, CIVIL, which covers civil cases and trials. Listen to the trailer here - https://link.chtbl.com/CivilPodcast Sponsors in this episode: Babbel - Right now, get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/COURT. Progressive Insurance - Visit Progressive.com to get a quote with all the coverages you want, so you can easily compare and choose. ThirdLove - Visit ThirdLove.com to find your fit and shop their bestselling bras. Get $15 off your first purchase! Ibotta - Get $5 just for trying Ibotta. Go to the App Store or Google Play store and download the FREE Ibotta app and use code COURT. Pluto TV - Download the free Pluto TV app for Android, iPhone, Roku, and Fire TV and start streaming now. Post-Production for the show is provided by Jon Keur of Wayfare Recording Co. Please consider supporting Court Junkie with as little as $3 a month via Patreon.com/CourtJunkie to receive ad-free episodes. Help support Court Junkie with $6 a month and get access to bonus monthly episodes. Follow me on Twitter @CourtJunkiePod or Instagram at CourtJunkie