Podcasts about wusf

A little outdoorsy talk on " Florida Matters Live & Local."Amid the rise of pickleball, the USTA says there aren't enough public tennis courts in the state. Can communities find the room and investment for both?Also, why do hikers love Florida? Let us count the ways with two trail experts.Plus, we explore a growing movement to save coastal areas called "living shorelines," and give the backstory on WUSF's groundbreaking series, "Defending the Everglades."Website: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni3

If you're looking for a reason to support WUSF, here's one. You help us produce “Florida Matters Live & Local,” which airs each Monday through Thursday at noon.The show, hosted by Mattew Peddie, tackles timely issues and community interests with newsmakers, elected leaders, locals and newcomers.This week, we're focusing on WUSF's Spring Fund Drive, so it's a great time to flash back to some of our favorite programs.What you're about to hear is prerecorded, so no calls. But you can call in and support this and other WUSF programming with your donation for our fundraiser.And remember, you can support this and other WUSF programming with a donation for our fundraiser. Just click here.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

If you're looking for a reason to support WUSF, here's one. You help us produce “Florida Matters Live & Local,” which airs each Monday through Thursday at noon.The program, hosted by Matthew Peddie, tackles timely issues and community interests with newsmakers, elected leaders, locals and newcomers.This week, we're focusing on WUSF's Spring Fund Drive, so it's a great time to flash back to some of our favorite programs. So today's show is prerecorded.And remember, you can support this and other WUSF programming with a donation for our fundraiser. Just click here.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

If you're looking for a reason to support WUSF, here's one. You help us produce “Florida Matters Live & Local,” which airs each Monday through Thursday at noon.The program, hosted by Matthew Peddie, tackles timely issues and community interests with newsmakers, elected leaders, locals and newcomers.This week, we're focusing on WUSF's Spring Fund Drive, so it's a great time to flash back to some of our favorite programs. So today's show is prerecorded.And remember, you can support this and other WUSF programming with a donation for our fundraiser. Just click here.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

If you're looking for a reason to support WUSF, here's one. You help us produce “Florida Matters Live & Local,” which airs each Monday through Thursday at noon.The program, hosted by Mattew Peddie, tackles timely issues and community interests with newsmakers, elected leaders, locals and newcomers.This week, we're focusing on WUSF's Spring Fund Drive, so it's a great time to flash back to some of our favorite programs. So today's show is prerecorded.And remember, you can support this and other WUSF programming with a donation for our fundraiser. Just click here.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

# Legal Matters Involving Donald Trump: April 2026 UpdateWelcome back, listeners. We're diving straight into some significant legal developments that are unfolding right now involving former President Donald Trump and his administration's actions in 2026.The most pressing issue centers on an executive order that's creating waves across the legal establishment. According to reporting from a legal industry update on April 6th, 2026, the Trump administration has accused several major law firms of weaponizing the legal system against the former president. The firms in question include Perkins Coey, Wilmer Hale, Jenner and Block, and Susman Godfrey. What's remarkable here is the overwhelming response from the legal community itself. More than 800 law firms filed what's called Friends of the Court briefs with the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, urging the court to reject the administration's appeal related to this executive order. That's not all. Over 200 law professors and more than 50 law student organizations also filed amicus briefs supporting these firms. Only five conservative groups filed briefs backing the administration's position. Oral arguments in this case are scheduled to begin on May 14th, making this one of the most closely watched legal battles of the moment.Another major legal issue involves citizenship itself. According to Rutgers Law School's analysis of 2026 legal issues, the Supreme Court is currently considering whether President Trump's Executive Order 14160 violates the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and the Immigration and Nationality Act. This executive order seeks to redefine who may acquire U.S. citizenship by birth, representing one of the most consequential legal questions the high court will address this term.Meanwhile, in Florida specifically, there's an unusual development regarding gun rights. According to WUSF's reporting on Florida legal issues, the state's Attorney General James Uthmeier has taken the unusual step of refusing to defend a Florida law that prevents people under age 21 from buying rifles and other long guns. This law passed nearly eight years ago following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. The National Rifle Association has challenged this law, and the U.S. Supreme Court is deciding whether to take up that challenge. The fact that Florida's own attorney general won't defend the state's law adds a remarkable layer of complexity to this case.These developments paint a picture of an administration actively engaged in multiple legal battles, from questions about executive authority and citizenship to disputes with the legal profession itself. The coming weeks and months will reveal how these cases unfold and what implications they'll have for the broader legal landscape.Thank you so much for tuning in, listeners. Be sure to come back next week for more legal updates and analysis. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, visit Quiet Please dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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

Food doesn't just live on the plate anymore. It lives in media. Episode 189 brings together two sides of that reality, how food is created, and how it's seen. Featured guest Alexandria Ebron, Brand Manager for The Zest and Classical WSMR, part of the NPR ecosystem at WUSF and the University of South Florida, shares her path from blogging and Creative Loafing to helping shape food stories across the state. Her perspective lives in the day-to-day of content creation, covering restaurants, building narratives, and understanding what actually connects with an audience. In studio, Chef Jason F. Lynn returns to Walk-In Talk, cooking while navigating a different kind of pressure, building within a system at Del Webb Minneola while still pushing his identity as a chef. From plating decisions to photography angles, Jason speaks to the shift every chef is feeling as food and media become inseparable. This episode continues the conversation around the evolving relationship between chefs, content, and visibility, and what it really takes to stay relevant in today's hospitality industry. Because food doesn't just get served anymore. It gets documented. It gets shared. It gets judged before it's even tasted.

Investigative journalists ⁠⁠Mandy Matney⁠⁠ and ⁠Liz Farrell⁠⁠ sit down with Pulitzer Prize winning Journalist and Bone Valley podcast creator Gilbert King for a conversation that connects wrongful conviction, racial injustice, and the raw power of storytelling across decades of American history.  King shares how his research into Thurgood Marshall's landmark civil rights battles in the Jim Crow South led him to Leo Schofield — a Florida man who spent 36 years in prison for a murder he didn't commit while the real killer, Jeremy Scott, walked free and killed again. He also recounts the jaw-dropping moment he sat with Leo when Jeremy called unexpectedly — and Leo forgave him. We're also unpacking why prosecutors double down instead of admitting error, how the judicial system's resistance to finality crushes innocent people, and why one storyteller's decision to shine a light can change everything.  ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Get to know Pulitzer Prize winner Gilbert King — follow him on Facebook and Instagram Listen to Gilbert's podcast Bone Valley - Leo Schofield's storyCan't get enough of Bone Valley? Can't get enough of Bone Valley? Pick up one of Gilbert's books next. Devil in the Grove Beneath a Ruthless Sun The Execution of Willie Francis Bone Valley: The Book “He Served 36 Years for His Wife's Murder and Then Forgave the Man Who Confessed” - The New York Times, April 9, 2025 “Author Gilbert King: Jeremy Scott died in prison” - WUSF, Sept 28, 2025 Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ ⁠⁠Premium Members⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ also get access to all new bonus episodes, video episodes, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more and join with Promo Code "COJ25" for your first month free!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lunasharkmerch.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support Our Show, Sponsors and Mission: https://lunasharkmedia.com/support/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Quince⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hungry Root⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bombas⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mandy Matney on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   |   ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Liz Farrell on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   |   ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Eric Bland on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TIKTOK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@lunasharkmedia.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who decides which food stories get told? In Episode 188 of the Walk-In Talk Podcast, Host, Carl welcomes Dalia Colon, Executive Producer and Host of The Zest, the NPR-affiliated food podcast produced by WUSF on the University of South Florida campus. With more than 300 episodes produced, Dalia has helped shape how Florida's food culture is documented through public media. Her work blends journalism, food history, and storytelling, highlighting the chefs, farmers, traditions, and communities that define the state's culinary identity. In the studio kitchen, Chef Michael Collantes, Michelin-starred chef and owner of Soseki Modern Omakase, prepares two dishes while joining the conversation about the relationship between chefs and media. Collantes previously appeared as a guest on The Zest in 2023, making this episode a full-circle moment as the discussion moves from public radio to the Walk-In Talk studio. Together, the conversation explores editorial responsibility, the pace of modern food media, and the shared discipline between journalism and professional kitchens. Because food isn't just content. It's culture, craft, and the stories that shape the industry.   Be sure to follow our journey to the Ny Restaurant Show as we continue bridging the gap between Food Media in the Food Industry B2B space! We'll be at the Javits Center in NYC from 3/8 - 3/10 at booth 1653! Episode Takeaways Public media brings editorial discipline to food storytelling Platforms like NPR prioritize context, credibility, and cultural documentation over trends. Food journalism helps preserve culinary history Coverage can shape how communities and traditions are remembered. The relationship between chefs and media is evolving As visibility grows, chefs and storytellers must navigate responsibility and representation. Standards matter in both kitchens and journalism Whether producing a Michelin-level dish or a public media story, trust is built through consistency and discipline. Florida's food culture is deeper than headlines Regional voices, traditions, and history play a major role in shaping the state's culinary identity. Brand Partners Metro Foodservice Solutions Professional kitchen infrastructure trusted by chefs around the world. https://www.metro.com RAK Porcelain USA Precision-crafted professional tableware designed for high-performance kitchens. https://www.rakporcelain.com Citrus America Premium citrus products supporting chefs and foodservice professionals across the industry. https://www.citrusamerica.com Crab Island Seafood Chef-driven seafood products bringing Gulf Coast flavors to restaurants nationwide. https://crabislandseafood.com Testo North America Industry-leading food safety and measurement technology trusted in professional kitchens. https://www.testo.com/en-US Cause Partners The Burnt Chef Project Advancing mental health awareness and support within the hospitality industry. https://www.theburntchefproject.com Operation BBQ Relief Providing hot meals and disaster relief to communities in need across the United States. https://operationbbqrelief.org Sustainable Supperclub Community-driven dining events supporting food access and nonprofit initiatives. https://sustainablesupperclub.com Trade Show & Industry Event Partners Florida Restaurant Show https://www.therestaurantshows.com/florida/ New York Restaurant Show https://www.therestaurantshows.com/new-york/ California Restaurant Show https://www.therestaurantshows.com/california/ Pizza Tomorrow Summit https://www.pizzatomorrow.com/ U.S. Culinary Open at the NAFEM Show https://www.usculinaryopen.com/about Creative Loafing Tampa Bay Food & Drink coverage and cultural journalism across the Tampa Bay region. https://www.cltampa.com About Walk-In Talk Media Walk-In Talk Media is an industry-recognized B2B food and hospitality media company focused on chef-driven storytelling and trade-facing impact. Founded by Carl Fiadini, Walk-In Talk Media produces podcasts, studio video content, documentary-style storytelling, and live trade-show coverage across the United States. The platform serves chefs, operators, distributors, brands, and industry organizations by documenting the people and systems that shape the foodservice world. The Walk-In Talk Podcast consistently holds the #1 Food Podcast position on Apple Charts in the U.S. market, has reached millions of downloads, and was a finalist at the People's Choice Podcast Awards. Walk-In Talk Media has also been recognized for its storytelling at the Central Florida Film Festival and Folkestone Film Festival, with projects listed on IMDb. Walk-In Talk Media is the official podcast and media partner for the New York Restaurant Show, California Restaurant Show, Florida Restaurant Show, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and the U.S. Culinary Open, and works alongside industry publications like Creative Loafing Tampa Bay to elevate chef voices and food culture. The platform also supports cause-driven organizations including The Burnt Chef Project and Operation BBQ Relief, reinforcing its commitment to the health and sustainability of the hospitality industry.

Morning radio hosts are known for having hot takes. And for many people in Tampa Bay, morning radio means Miguel and Holly.Miguel Fuller and Holly O'Connor are the real-life besties behind the Miguel & Holly Show on Tampa Bay's Mix 1007. FM. After hosting their show in Florida for many years, the pair moved the show to Charlotte, N.C. from 2022 to 2025. Now they're back in the Tampa Bay, where they debuted at No. 1, with a renewed love of all things Florida—especially the food.The radio veterans recently visited our studio at WUSF. They discussed what breakfast looks like when their workday starts at 4:30 a.m., the North Carolina foods they want to see more of in Florida and the Tampa Bay restaurants they couldn't wait to get back to. Then they offer their hot takes on everything from air fryers to Uber Eats, including an opinion they say could get them run out of town.

The conversation features insights from longtime local political journalist William March, PolitiFact Florida government reporter Sam Putterman and WUSF politics/environment reporter Steve Newborn.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida is a state that often feels tangible impacts of climate change, with strong storms and hurricanes making landfall in the state every hurricane season. However, this year is the first time in a decade that the Sunshine State was spared from experiencing a single hurricane. Jessica Meszaros, a climate change reporter at WUSF, joins Kimberly to explain how Floridians are rebuilding a year after hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton hit the state. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's what we talked about on the show today:“Florida and the U.S. were spared of hurricanes in 2025, but storms are still rapidly intensifying” from WUSF“Hurricane Helene Response” from US Army Corps of Engineers“Assessment of Agricultural Losses Resulting from Hurricane Milton” from University of Florida IFAS“Disaster and insurance costs are rising. The middle class is struggling to hang on” from NPR“Sorting trash can be dirty and dangerous. Sounds like a job for AI” from Marketplace“Disney comes to Sora: What you can and can't do with the characters” from Axios“How fruitcake became a Christmas classic (even if it's unpopular)” from MSN“City life is reshaping raccoons – and may be nudging them toward domestication” from The Guardian

Florida is a state that often feels tangible impacts of climate change, with strong storms and hurricanes making landfall in the state every hurricane season. However, this year is the first time in a decade that the Sunshine State was spared from experiencing a single hurricane. Jessica Meszaros, a climate change reporter at WUSF, joins Kimberly to explain how Floridians are rebuilding a year after hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton hit the state. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's what we talked about on the show today:“Florida and the U.S. were spared of hurricanes in 2025, but storms are still rapidly intensifying” from WUSF“Hurricane Helene Response” from US Army Corps of Engineers“Assessment of Agricultural Losses Resulting from Hurricane Milton” from University of Florida IFAS“Disaster and insurance costs are rising. The middle class is struggling to hang on” from NPR“Sorting trash can be dirty and dangerous. Sounds like a job for AI” from Marketplace“Disney comes to Sora: What you can and can't do with the characters” from Axios“How fruitcake became a Christmas classic (even if it's unpopular)” from MSN“City life is reshaping raccoons – and may be nudging them toward domestication” from The Guardian

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," hear 23 years of radio insight from WUSF's outgoing leader, JoAnn Urofsky. Then it's off to the circus, to learn about big-top lore and a modern script. Finally, the quirks of airport security.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," hear 23 years of radio insight from WUSF's outgoing leader, JoAnn Urofsky. Then it's off to the circus, to learn about big-top lore and a modern script. Finally, the quirks of airport security.Call: 813-755-6562Message: FloridaMatters@wusf.orgWebsite: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Picture this: you roll through a bright blue gate onto a sprawling property lined with ancient oaks, lush gardens bursting with color and a quiet pond where a few friendly farm animals wander by. Live music drifts through the air, tropical flowers spill across the outdoor tables, and before you is a Caribbean-inspired feast that looks almost too beautiful to eat.Welcome to Spice Society Supper Club—a night of music, storytelling, craft cocktails and unforgettable food. The experience pops up periodically at Mill Pond Estate, a picturesque wedding venue in Seffner. And the menu is dreamed up by the estate's own chef, Khadeem Charles. Drawing on his Trinidadian and Panamanian roots, Chef Khadeem is dedicated to taking Caribbean cuisine to new heights and giving it the fine-dining spotlight it deserves.The best part? Spice Society Supper Club is open to the public, as are several of the estate's other community events, from fancy tea parties to outdoor yoga sessions.Kahdeem recently visited our studios at WUSF in Tampa. In this conversation, he dishes on Spice Society Supper Club, a food trend coming your way in 2026 and tips for cooking during the holidays, whether you're hosting four people or 400.

Picture this: you roll through a bright blue gate onto a sprawling property lined with ancient oaks, lush gardens bursting with color and a quiet pond where a few friendly farm animals wander by. Live music drifts through the air, tropical flowers spill across the outdoor tables, and before you is a Caribbean-inspired feast that looks almost too beautiful to eat.Welcome to Spice Society Supper Club—a night of music, storytelling, craft cocktails and unforgettable food. The experience pops up periodically at Mill Pond Estate, a picturesque wedding venue in Seffner. And the menu is dreamed up by the estate's own chef, Khadeem Charles. Drawing on his Trinidadian and Panamanian roots, Chef Khadeem is dedicated to taking Caribbean cuisine to new heights and giving it the fine-dining spotlight it deserves.The best part? Spice Society Supper Club is open to the public, as are several of the estate's other community events, from fancy tea parties to outdoor yoga sessions.Kahdeem recently visited our studios at WUSF in Tampa. In this conversation, he dishes on Spice Society Supper Club, a food trend coming your way in 2026 and tips for cooking during the holidays, whether you're hosting four people or 400.

The Tampa Bay History Center and WUSF present a program on the Florida Chitlin' Circuit, a network of Black-owned venues that thrived during the Jim Crow era. Local and national experts will discuss how these clubs fostered community and launched the careers of iconic musicians such as Ray Charles. NPR journalist and musician Eric Deggans will lead the discussion, shedding light on this overlooked chapter of American music history. Panelists -ERIC DEGGANS | TV and Media Critic, NPR | Musician | Author, Race-Baiter: How the Media Wields Dangerous Words to Divide a Nation -Arthenia Joyner | Former Senator and Civil Rights Attorney | Daughter of Henry Joyner who owned Joyner's Cotton Club -Michelle Scott | Professor of History, University of Maryland, Baltimore County | Author, T.O.B.A. Time: Black Vaudeville and the Theater Owners' Booking Association in Jazz-Age America -Sharon Preston-Folta | Award-winning filmmaker and author of Little Satchmo | Daughter of Louis Armstrong Florida Conversations is free and accessible in person and streamed live on Zoom. We thank our sponsors: USF Libraries, WUSF Public Media, and AARP Tampa Bay. Additional sponsor support is graciously provided by Shelley Blood and the Lorenzo Molay Family.

It's one of the highest-ranked food shows on Apple Podcasts. Nope, we're not talking about The Zest—although we hope we're first place in your heart. The podcast in question is Walk-In Talk, founded and hosted by Carl Fiadini of Lithia. Coming from a foodie family and having spent decades in the food industry, Carl pivoted during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, instead of selling food, he sells stories about food, overseeing Walk-In Talk Media with his business partners. In addition to the podcast, the enterprise includes food photography, documentaries, a magazine and more.Carl chatted with Dalia at the WUSF studio. In this conversation, they discuss what really happens in an eatery's walk-in cooler, the moment when he realized he'd had enough of working in restaurants and what to know before starting that podcast you've been dreaming up.Thanks to Karla Stockton for suggesting this episode. If you have an idea for a Zest guest, email us: info@thezestpodcast.com

It's one of the highest-ranked food shows on Apple Podcasts. Nope, we're not talking about The Zest—although we hope we're first place in your heart. The podcast in question is Walk-In Talk, founded and hosted by Carl Fiadini of Lithia. Coming from a foodie family and having spent decades in the food industry, Carl pivoted during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, instead of selling food, he sells stories about food, overseeing Walk-In Talk Media with his business partners. In addition to the podcast, the enterprise includes food photography, documentaries, a magazine and more.Carl chatted with Dalia at the WUSF studio. In this conversation, they discuss what really happens in an eatery's walk-in cooler, the moment when he realized he'd had enough of working in restaurants and what to know before starting that podcast you've been dreaming up.Thanks to Karla Stockton for suggesting this episode. If you have an idea for a Zest guest, email us: info@thezestpodcast.com

On tonight's episode: What kind of impact do the closing of schools have on a community? The crackdown on immigrants in Florida is having effects beyond the immigrants themselves; We check in WUSF's Capitol Guy to get the latest on some sticky issues state lawmakers are racing to accomplish before the next election; And no matter how tough things are today on Florida lawmakers, things were a LOT worse in the earliest days of the territory.

It's been pretty hot this summer. If you live in Florida- that's not news. But you might not know just how dangerous the heat can be for you and your neighbors here in Tampa Bay. On this episode of Florida Matters, we talk about how the heat can be more than just uncomfortable if you're pregnant.It can cause major health problems for the pregnant person and the baby.WUSF's Jessica Meszaros explains what she learned about pregnancy and heat. And why these problems are only likely to get worse. Also on the show: we know how expensive it can be to get housing in Tampa Bay. You'll hear from Bradenton area business owner John Horne of Oyster's Rock Hospitality and Mark Vengroff, CEO and Managing Partner of One Stop Housing about a solution to the problem: building workforce housing. And Dalia Colon, host of WUSF's The Zest, joins us to talk about the new season of the podcast- plus food tips for hurricane season. 

It's been pretty hot this summer. If you live in Florida- that's not news. But you might not know just how dangerous the heat can be for you and your neighbors here in Tampa Bay. On this episode of Florida Matters, we talk about how the heat can be more than just uncomfortable if you're pregnant.It can cause major health problems for the pregnant person and the baby.WUSF's Jessica Meszaros explains what she learned about pregnancy and heat. And why these problems are only likely to get worse. Also on the show: we know how expensive it can be to get housing in Tampa Bay. You'll hear from Bradenton area business owner John Horne of Oyster's Rock Hospitality and Mark Vengroff, CEO and Managing Partner of One Stop Housing about a solution to the problem: building workforce housing. And Dalia Colon, host of WUSF's The Zest, joins us to talk about the new season of the podcast- plus food tips for hurricane season. 

New rules for people applying to get their learners' permit in Florida aim to make it safer for teen drivers. WUSF's Meghan Bowman and Pasco County tax collector Mike Fasano join Florida Matters to explain.Have you ever wondered what it takes for a dog to become a service animal? Meet dog trainer Katie Baker with Dogs Inc. of Bradenton and her service dog in training, Star.And the guy behind Tampa International Airport's wildly popular social media feed is C.J. Johnson. His cheeky Instagram posts are often funny- but there's more to them than just entertainment.

New rules for people applying to get their learners' permit in Florida aim to make it safer for teen drivers. WUSF's Meghan Bowman and Pasco County tax collector Mike Fasano join Florida Matters to explain.Have you ever wondered what it takes for a dog to become a service animal? Meet dog trainer Katie Baker with Dogs Inc. of Bradenton and her service dog in training, Star.And the guy behind Tampa International Airport's wildly popular social media feed is C.J. Johnson. His cheeky Instagram posts are often funny- but there's more to them than just entertainment.

Amid the country's strict immigration policies, stories are emerging from people placed in federal detention and those no longer in U.S.Some have been deported and some are leaving voluntarily.WUSF's Nancy Guan joins "Florida Matters" to share her reporting about two people whose lives in the Tampa Bay region have been turned upside down.Also, roadways across the state are looking a bit less colorful. Cities and counties are being told by state and federal leaders to remove rainbow crosswalks and other types of street art.St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said he doesn't like it, but the city will comply.Byron Green-Calisch, president of St. Pete Pride, explains how the city's LGBTQ+ community is reacting to the removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and 25th Street.

Amid the country's strict immigration policies, stories are emerging from people placed in federal detention and those no longer in U.S.Some have been deported and some are leaving voluntarily.WUSF's Nancy Guan joins "Florida Matters" to share her reporting about two people whose lives in the Tampa Bay region have been turned upside down.Also, roadways across the state are looking a bit less colorful. Cities and counties are being told by state and federal leaders to remove rainbow crosswalks and other types of street art.St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said he doesn't like it, but the city will comply.Byron Green-Calisch, president of St. Pete Pride, explains how the city's LGBTQ+ community is reacting to the removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and 25th Street.

Public health experts are worried about the dip in childhood vaccinations. In Sarasota County, the vaccination rate has slid to about 80% for kindergartners. That's a lower rate than neighboring counties — and the statewide immunization rate.On this episode of Florida Matters, we talk about what's behind vaccine hesitancy in Sarasota County with WUSF's Kerry Sheridan. Plus, it's peak rainy season — meaning mosquitoes are out in full force. You'll hear from Gabriella Henderson, Community Relations Coordinator with Hillsborough County mosquito management, about how the county is working to control these tiny but dangerous critters.

People often own the manufactured home they live in, but rent the land it sits on. And the rent is going up. On this episode, you'll hear from people explaining how they're struggling to keep pace with rising rent. Their stories are part of a special reporting project from WUSF called Not So Forever Home. The Pulitzer's Center for local reporting supported it.You'll also hear from WUSF reporters Octavio Jones and Gabriella Paul. Jones spent the last year talking with people in mobile home communities about their plight, and Paul explains how one more door to home ownership is being squeezed shut. 

Dave Anderson, Chief Broadcast Engineer at WUSF, Tampa - brings us two tales of two fibers. One tale surrounds the fantastic utility, capability, and flexibility of using fiber to connect different radio studios to the central rack room. The other tale describes the dangers of having diverse IP connection services that all use the exact same cross-country or last-mile fiber bundle. Either way a fault in the fiber can take out multiple services that were thought to be “diverse”. Dave shares his recent experience and advice for using fiber’s clear advantages while avoiding service pitfalls. Show Notes:Introduction to Livewire+ is a guide to installing AoIP, including using fiber to transport it. Guest:Dave Anderson - Chief Broadcast Engineer at WUSF Public Media Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new Rave analog audio mixing console. The new MaxxKonnect Broadcast U.192 MPX USB Soundcard - The first purpose-built broadcast-quality USB sound card with native MPX output. Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Dave Anderson, Chief Broadcast Engineer at WUSF, Tampa - brings us two tales of two fibers. One tale surrounds the fantastic utility, capability, and flexibility of using fiber to connect different radio studios to the central rack room. The other tale describes the dangers of having diverse IP connection services that all use the exact same cross-country or last-mile fiber bundle. Either way a fault in the fiber can take out multiple services that were thought to be “diverse”. Dave shares his recent experience and advice for using fiber's clear advantages while avoiding service pitfalls.

You can't get a mortgage without home insurance. But in some parts of the country, it's becoming harder and harder to find a plan, as insurance companies drop homeowners  and pull out of entire states, as flooding, wildfires, and storms become more frequent and intense. Host Flora Lichtman talks to reporters Jessica Meszaros and Rachel Cohen, who have been covering this issue in Florida and Colorado. Flora then speaks with Benjamin Keys, who studies the impact of climate change on the real estate market, about the future of home ownership in a world increasingly unsettled by climate change.Guests: Rachel Cohen is the Mountain West News Bureau reporter for KUNC.Dr. Benjamin Keys studies the impact of climate change on the real estate market at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.Jessica Meszaros is a climate change and environment reporter for WUSF in Tampa, Florida.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com.  Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

When hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton menaced Tampa Bay last summer, you may have been glued to your radio for updates.The National Weather Service is a lifeline, not just during hurricanes, but whenever there's severe weather.Now, hundreds of staff have left the agency in the last six months.Could that affect the agency's work?You'll hear from meteorologist Brian LaMarre, who led the forecasting office for the greater Tampa Bay region before taking early retirement in April.Also on "Florida Matters" this week:What does a summer without Major League Baseball mean for St Petersburg's economy and identity?WUSF's Lily Belchertalked with business owners in St. Pete and Tampa to see how the Rays' move across the bay is affecting them.And Chris Steinocher with the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce explains how businesses around Tropicana Field are struggling without the home game crowds.Plus, how do you demolish a bridge?WUSF's Sky Lebron gets an update on the fate of the old Howard Frankland bridge.

The Trump regime's attempts to destroy the federal government and sell off the pieces to private business is impacting Florida's public lands. Our guest this episode is Dalia Colón, author of the award-winning "The Florida Vegetarian Cookbook" and host of "The Zest," a Florida cooking podcast produced by WUSF radio in Tampa. We discuss popular Florida fruits and vegetables and how to incorporate them into your meals.Friends of "Welcome to Florida:"Jason Garcia's essential "Seeking Rents" podcast exposes the financial corruption inherent at the Everglades concentration camp.Ryan Smart and Ryan Worthington's "As Bad as it is" podcast examines the connection between conservation and politics in Florida.

She's a familiar voice to thousands of us across West Central Florida. As the midday host for Tampa Bay's NPR station, WUSF, Lisa Peakes keeps us company as we work, eat lunch, run errands, sit in the school carline or whatever else we happen to be doing in the afternoon. Lisa reads the news, shares the weather report and tells us about local events, all in that friendly, soothing voice that's become a constant companion. As her WUSF Public Media colleagues, we can tell you that Lisa is even more fascinating than the information she broadcasts. So in this bonus episode, we wanted to give you a chance to get to know the woman behind the microphone.  In this vulnerable conversation, Lisa reveals why radio became so important to her as a child. She also explains how she developed a passion for competitive fitness. The St. Petersburg resident also reveals what she eats on a typical day, and recommends some of her favorite local restaurants for take-out.Thanks to The Zest's brand manager, Alexandria Ebron, for suggesting this episode. If you have a suggestion for a Zest guest, please send it to: info@thezestpodcast.com.Related episodes:Dietitian Deanna Wolfe on Wellness Trends, Disordered Eating and Finding Food FreedomGiuliano Hazan Honors Mother Marcella Hazan's Legacy Through Italian Cooking Classes in Sarasota and ItalySunshine State Vanilla's Stephanie Webb Spills the Beans on Florida Vanilla SymposiumCookbook Author & Cancer Survivor Rujel Buggs: “Don't Wait” to Start Eating RightPro Basketball Player (and Dalia's Bonus Daughter!) Ariel Colón Reveals Her Slam-Dunk DietHow “Fab the Vegan” Dropped 150 Pounds, Reversed Diabetes & Became a Plant-Based InfluencerHow Gatorade Went from Gainesville to Global Brand

She's a familiar voice to thousands of us across West Central Florida. As the midday host for Tampa Bay's NPR station, WUSF, Lisa Peakes keeps us company as we work, eat lunch, run errands, sit in the school carline or whatever else we happen to be doing in the afternoon. Lisa reads the news, shares the weather report and tells us about local events, all in that friendly, soothing voice that's become a constant companion. As her WUSF Public Media colleagues, we can tell you that Lisa is even more fascinating than the information she broadcasts. So in this bonus episode, we wanted to give you a chance to get to know the woman behind the microphone.  In this vulnerable conversation, Lisa reveals why radio became so important to her as a child. She also explains how she developed a passion for competitive fitness. The St. Petersburg resident also reveals what she eats on a typical day, and recommends some of her favorite local restaurants for take-out.Thanks to The Zest's brand manager, Alexandria Ebron, for suggesting this episode. If you have a suggestion for a Zest guest, please send it to: info@thezestpodcast.com.Related episodes:Dietitian Deanna Wolfe on Wellness Trends, Disordered Eating and Finding Food FreedomGiuliano Hazan Honors Mother Marcella Hazan's Legacy Through Italian Cooking Classes in Sarasota and ItalySunshine State Vanilla's Stephanie Webb Spills the Beans on Florida Vanilla SymposiumCookbook Author & Cancer Survivor Rujel Buggs: “Don't Wait” to Start Eating RightPro Basketball Player (and Dalia's Bonus Daughter!) Ariel Colón Reveals Her Slam-Dunk DietHow “Fab the Vegan” Dropped 150 Pounds, Reversed Diabetes & Became a Plant-Based InfluencerHow Gatorade Went from Gainesville to Global Brand

On this episode of "Florida Matters," you'll learn about The Chitlin Circuit, how it shaped the sound of jazz, blues, and rock, and how it paved the way for the music industry we see today.We revisit a conversation brought to you last February about the network of clubs that Black performers toured in the segregated South. Coming up- you'll hear how the artists who performed on the circuit shaped the sound of blues, rock n roll, jazz and pop that came after. And how contemporary artists are paying homage to those performers. If you watched the Grammys this year, you probably caught Beyonce's acceptance speech, when, at long last she landed the album of the year. Beyonce said she hoped to keep pushing forward and opening doors. And her album- Cowboy Carter, which won the Grammy for best country album- is also a door to the past. The album tour, Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin Circuit tour,  evoked the network of clubs and venues that Black musicians and performers toured during segregation last Century. And she references the circuit in the track Ya Ya.Joining the conversation on Florida Matters: Dr Michelle Scott,  professor of History at University of Maryland Baltimore County, and Dr Nashid Madyun, executive director Florida Humanities.Scott was also part of a panel discussion presented by WUSF and Arts Axis Florida earlier this year about  the Chitlin Circuit in Tampa.If you want to learn more about this chapter in Tampa's history- check out jazz on arts axis florida. There's a video of the panel moderated by NPR TV critic Eric Deggans which also included pioneering attorney, civil rights activist and former State Senator Arthenia Joyner. It's a fascinating conversation. And you'll find performances, oral histories, photos and much more. 

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | Spotify | PandoraThis week, we make our 30th anniversary tour stop in Tampa in partnership with WUSF, where we learn about what makes the food of South Florida so unique. First up, Dalia Colón, host of The Zest podcast and author of The Florida Vegetarian Cookbook, gives us an overview of the rich Tampa food scene. From its diverse cuisines to its old-school Southern charm. Then, we talk about Tampa's cultural and culinary history and legacy with Andrea Gonzmart Williams, fifth-generation owner of Columbia Restaurant, a landmark in the Cuban American community, and Megan Sorby, co-founder and CEO of Pine Island Redfish, a startup land-based fish farm with an environmental restoration focus. And finally, we meet up with community leader Anthony Gilbert, better known as “Call Anthony,” for his video reviews of Tampa Bay's under-the-radar- eateries.  Broadcast dates for this episode:June 27, 2025 (originally aired)Generous listeners like you make The Splendid Table possible. Donate today to support the show

Earlier this month, The Splendid Table recorded a live episode all about Florida foods! Host Francis Lam and producer Erika Romero came to the New Tampa Performing Arts Center for an episode and meet-and-greet hosted by WUSF Public Media.If you're in West Central Florida, catch the broadcast on Sunday, June 29, 2025 at 2 p.m. on WUSF 89.7 FM. Or listen anywhere, anytime at splendidtable.org.Guests included: Dalia Colón of The Zest Podcast Andrea Gonzmart Williams of Columbia Restaurant Group Megan Sorby of Pine Island Redfish Anthony Gilbert of Call Anthony In case you missed it, check out our convo with Francis when he was a Zest guest!

Earlier this month, The Splendid Table recorded a live episode all about Florida foods! Host Francis Lam and producer Erika Romero came to the New Tampa Performing Arts Center for an episode and meet-and-greet hosted by WUSF Public Media.If you're in West Central Florida, catch the broadcast on Sunday, June 29, 2025 at 2 p.m. on WUSF 89.7 FM. Or listen anywhere, anytime at splendidtable.org.Guests included: Dalia Colón of The Zest Podcast Andrea Gonzmart Williams of Columbia Restaurant Group Megan Sorby of Pine Island Redfish Anthony Gilbert of Call Anthony In case you missed it, check out our convo with Francis when he was a Zest guest!

Tampa Bay has a world renowned arts scene. Chances are you've caught an exhibition at the Dali museum in St. Petersburg- or taken in some of the dazzling, larger than life art at the SHINE mural festival. But did you know Tampa is also the birthplace of death metal? On this episode you'll hear from WUSF reporters who've been spotlighting the arts and culture of Tampa Bay. If you feel like there's something missing from your morning routine, Lily Belcher has a story about a cafe where you can watch kittens rough and tumble as you sip your cappuccino.Walk around the streets of St. Petersburg- and you'll see murals- lots of them. Visit St. Pete Clearwater says  more than 600 adorn walls throughout the city. A new gallery exhibition mashes up murals with another icon of the city's arts scene: the  museum devoted to surrealist artist Salvador Dali.  Sue Giles Wantuck shares details about the ‘Outside In' exhibit, and why mural artists are happy to pour hours and hours into creating enormous, complex works of art, even when they know their art won't last forever. And Daylina Miller breaks down Tampa's unique connection with extreme metal. They explain why the original site of Morrisound Recording was honored with a historic marker, and why metalheads right here in theplace it all began are some of the nicest people you'll meet, even if the music's a bit aggressive. 

Juneteenth—June 19—commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It became a federal holiday in 2021, but early celebrations date back to the 1860s.Today, Americans observe Juneteenth with festivals, family and of course, food. So we invited influencer Kiva Williams, a.k.a. the Fun Foodie Mama, to share some of her favorite Juneteenth culinary traditions.In this conversation, the Wesley Chapel resident and founder of Mahogany Kids Fine Arts Foundation explains the origins of Juneteenth. She also shares her family's favorite celebratory foods and drinks, and recommends Juneteenth events to attend and offers advice on how everyone can enjoy the holiday, regardless of race.Kiva starts by explaining how she became a food influencer.For more ways to celebrate Juneteenth, check out the WUSF events calendar.Related episodes:Soul Food Scholar Adrian Miller Will Headline the Tampa Bay Collard Green FestivalSoul Food Inspires Artist Chris Friday's Sarasota Art Museum ExhibitionGabrielle E.W. Carter & Dr. LaDonna Butler on Food as Rest & ResistanceSecond Helping: Toni Tipton-Martin Celebrates African-American Chefs in ‘Jubilee'Dr. Fred Opie on the “Fascinating” African Roots of Florida Foods

Hurricane season can feel unnerving for many, especially as hurricanes grow more intense due to climate change. WUSF climate and environment reporter Jessica Meszaros breaks down how to know your flood risk level and ways to flood-proof your home so that you'll be more secure this season. This episode is part of NPR's Climate Solutions Week, a series where we examine how to be more resilient in a changing climate.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There's a certain model of handgun that's popular with gun owners across the country. It's popular with  law enforcement too. But recently, some  agencies- including right here in Tampa Bay- opted to remove the Sig Sauer P320 from their arsenals because of safety concerns. On this episode you'll hear from a journalist who's been covering this issue for The Trace and Mother Jones. Ava Sasani explains why some police departments and sheriff's offices don't want officers using this gun- and why these weapons are being sold back to the general public. But first - an update on state politics. You remember back at the start of May, lawmakers were supposed to wrap up their two month lawmaking stint by passing a budget. Only- they didn't. WUSF's Douglas Soule, part of the 'Your Florida' team reporting on how state government affects you, joins Florida Matters to walk us through what lawmakers need to do to pass a budget- and what could happen if they can't reach an agreement by the end of June.

If your home flooded during hurricane season last year, you may still be recovering from the damage. A lot of neighborhoods flooded as a series of storms impacted the Tampa Bay region- Hurricane Debby, then Helene and soon after that- Milton. And it wasn't just places on the coast. Inland neighborhoods flooded too. So- with hurricane season almost here- what are local governments doing to prevent more flooding? And how are people rebuilding? WUSF journalists Jessica Meszaros, Kerry Sheridan and Steve Newborn join Florida Matters to discuss their reporting on the ongoing recovery from flooding in communities across the greater Tampa Bay region. 

When it comes to baking cakes, most of us reach for the same ingredients—milk, eggs, butter…But Sira Garib says you can have all of the flavor with none of the animal products—good news for her customers, many of whom are vegan or have dairy allergies. Sira is the founder and CEO of Pure Vegan Cakes, which specializes in custom plant-based cakes, cupcakes and cookies. Originally from South Florida, she has baked for some pretty big names, including actress and vegan influencer Tabitha Brown—an encounter that Sira credits with taking her business to the next level.Sira stopped by the Zest studios at WUSF for a chat with Dalia Colón. In this conversation, she shares how she went from baking cakes for family and friends to being South Florida's go-to plant-based celebrity baker and developing her own line of baking mixes. She also shares advice transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle and tips for baking a better cake.Related episodes:Plant-Powered Education: Solid Rock Community School in Tarpon Springs Offers 100% Vegan Cafeteria MenuHow “Fab the Vegan” Dropped 150 Pounds, Reversed Diabetes & Became a Plant-Based InfluencerNatalia Veganizes Recipes from The Great British Baking ShowHow to Start a Cottage Food Business in Florida: Lessons from the Lentil House

She's a podcast host, the child of immigrants and a self-described picky eater. Today we're getting to know Malaika Hollist. As brand manager of WUSF's Arts Axis Florida, Malaika creates content to promote local artists and arts organizations. While she doesn't call herself a foodie, Malaika recognizes commonalities between what she does at Arts Axis and what we do here at The Zest.Malaika sat down in the studio with The Zest's Dalia Colón and Alexandria Ebron. In this conversation, Malaika shares her favorite ways to combine food with the arts, discusses what she ate growing up as the child of parents from Sierra Leone and reflects on the importance of sharing her culture with pride.Related episodes:Couples in the Kitchen: Melissa Santell & Bryce BonsackGiuliano Hazan Honors Mother Marcella Hazan's Legacy Through Italian Cooking Classes in Sarasota and ItalyDr. Fred Opie on the “Fascinating” African Roots of Florida Foods

This week, alongside some pop culture recommendations, we dive into the legislative bills you should keep an eye on as the session ramps up, from labor to voting and so much more. Find Your Representative and Find Your Senator. Learn how to call your Congresspeople here concerning a number of topics. We've donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. If you can spare it, we recommend you do the same here. I mention a map of Orange County's rural boundary in this episode, and site the source as WUCF. It was actually WUSF and can be found here.    Pick up your copy of FLORIDA! right here! Thank you to Chelsea Rice for her incredible design of our logo! Follow Chelsea on Instagram here!   All of the music was originally composed.

Today we're getting to know dietitian Deanna Wolfe. But she needs no introduction if you're among her hundreds of thousands of social media followers.On Instagram and TikTok, Deanna is an open book. She chronicles her journey recovering from an eating disorder, what she eats in a day as postpartum mom (including dessert every night!) and even her income, for the scores of other dietitians she mentors.Dalia met Deanna at a USF Health event and couldn't get enough of her common-sense nutrition advice. So she invited Deanna to our studio at WUSF to share her approach with you.In this conversation, Deanna gives her take on trends like seed oil, green powders and Ozempic and offers guidance for anyone struggling with disordered eating. If you're not already doing so, be sure to follow Dietitian Deanna on Instagram or Tiktok. She shares some great info and her posts are so relatable. She IS like us!Related episodes:7 Tips for Eating More at Home: Advice from Dietician/Nutritionist Wendy WesleyEat Better, Feel Better: Simple Swaps from Carly Paige of FitLiving EatsGuac This Way: Sleepy Lizard Avocado Farm in the Everglades Specializes in Florida (Green) AvocadosBrunch Advice from First Watch