Florida Matters

WUSF reporters spotlight arts and culture around Tampa Bay- like murals, death metal and a cat cafe.

Steamy Lit bookstore owner Melissa Saavedra and local romance novelist Alicia Thompson take us on a journey into the world of Romance fiction

"Florida Matters" goes beyond the "Florida Man" headlines and delves into some of the the magic and mystery of the state with the Tampa Bay Times' follower of the offbeat.

Florida Matters revisits a conversation with Tampa City Councilwoman and bookstore owner Gwen Henderson, who has died at the age of 60

Hurricane season has officially begun. But many of you may still be recovering from last year, whether you’re rebuilding your home, getting a business back online, or coping with the mental trauma of hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

The newest candidate for Governor is from the Tampa Bay area. Former Republican congressman David Jolly is running as a Democrat.

From bridges, to buses to ferries, a roundup of transportation news from the Greater Tampa Bay region.

WUSF’s Steve Newborn and Tampa Bay Times reporter Colleen Wright discuss the latest twists and turns in the ongoing saga of Tropicana Field and the fate of the Rays.

We’re halfway through the annual sixty day legislative session, where Florida lawmakers gather in Tallahassee to hash out the laws that affect everything from the taxes you pay to how early your kids have to get up to make it to school in the morning.

How the Grand Prix and other sporting events - like this week’s NCAA Women’s Final Four- bring thousands of fans into the greater Tampa Bay region and rev up the economy.

On this episode of Florida Matters, we explore bird watching. We speak to bird enthusiasts about what birding is and how to start. And we also take you on a little bird walk.

On this episode of Florida Matters, we speak to three people with different perspectives on Florida Noir, and find out why the Sunshine State makes a great setting for shifty characters and sinister deeds.

The Chitlin Circuit and its impact on pop music

Connecting with Black businesses in Tampa Bay

Meeting the need for doctors in the Tampa Bay region

Immigration, state politics and Trump's second term

MLK Day and volunteerism in Tampa Bay, and how to do Dry January

WUSF reporters reflect on a life-changing hurricane season

From politics to weird noises, WUSF reporters review the year in news

When Hurricane Milton destroyed the Trop's roof, it triggered a cascade of problems for the Rays' plans for a new stadium

St. Petersburg couple on a mission to visit every state park in Florida

How one Tampa Bay non-profit is approaching the holiday season and hurricane recovery

Explaining the connection between homeowners' insurance and climate change in Florida

How Tampa Bay is recovering from Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton

Florida Matters election night 2024

Why the economy is a top issue for voters in 2024, and how elections offices guard against cyberattacks

Florida Matters podcast extra: flooding issues persist in Hernando County, two weeks after Milton

Coping with flooding after Hurricane Milton, dealing with election misinformation

Recovering from Milton: getting schools back online, voting after a hurricane and building resilience

Taking stock of the damage after Hurricane Milton

How America's broken immigration system impacts Florida

Tampa Bay takes stock after Hurricane Helene

How young voters are navigating the 2024 election and how the media covers politics

Dalia Colon talks fresh new season of 'The Zest'

How your vote will help decide the future of marijuana in Florida- plus: understanding political ads

Homeowners vs. Investors: who walks away with the home?

One couple's quest to visit all 175 Florida State Parks. Plus- what the primary election results mean for November

Thaddeus Bullard uses his pro wrestling fame to give back to his community

How your vote could help decide abortion access in Florida

Tampa Bay cleans up after Hurricane Debby & an update on the Rays stadium plans

A look at congressional races ahead of the primary election

Kids who are alone, without a place to call home, find help with a Tampa non-profit

The case for and against partisan school board elections

How the Florida Humanities helps tell the story of Florida. Plus: tips for new voters

Summer learning programs and competitive spelling in Tampa Bay

Arts organizations contemplate show cancellations and staff cuts after state budget vetoes

Black Tampa Bay LGBTQ+ leaders discuss Juneteenth and Pride

Remembering the Skyway Bridge Disaster: A look at what happened 44 years ago

Two Florida researchers discuss the health impact of vaping

In search of the Beloved Community: Remembering Congressman John Lewis

Preparing for the 2024 hurricane season

Lack of regulations for outdoor workers leads to hazardous work environments

Pro-Palestinian protests and the history of protests at USF

Bob Graham's legacy of environmental protection

Weed the people: recreational marijuana on the ballot in November

An update from teachers on classrooms since 2022 education laws rolled out

Thaddeus Bullard uses his pro wrestling fame to give back to his community

How the Florida Supreme Court's decisions on abortion and marijuana will affect health care and politics

Key decisions on a new Rays stadium are still to come

Two Tampa-area women veterans talk about their experiences in the military

Lawsuits likely for controversial social media bill

Lawmakers send bills targeting social media, sleeping outdoors and homeowners insurance to DeSantis

How a Tampa non-profit is working to support unhoused students

Dalia Colón celebrates 'citrus, seafood, Spanish flavor, and Southern charm' in her new cookbook

Gwen Henderson talks education, books and politics

A conversation with former state senator Arthenia Joyner about her trailblazing career in politics

Tampa Bay leaders Gwen Henderson and Arthenia Joyner talk politics, education & civil rights

Four self-proclaimed Blerds discuss what Blerd culture is and how the Black lived experience affects artforms associated with nerdom, like comics and cosplay.

Ignoring big legislative issues will allow them to 'fester,' warns former senator Jeff Brandes

County Supervisors of Elections talk about everything voters need to know about voting in 2024

What DeSantis's exit from the presidential primary means for Florida

Florida's new financial disclosure rules get praise, even as city leaders resign in protest

How evictions affect the Tampa Bay region's most vulnerable residents

DeSantis focuses on national issues in State of State speech

The best conversations of 2023 on Florida Matters

Florida Matters revisits some favorite episodes from 2023, including conversations about hurricanes and political storms, education, population growth and baseball.

How presidential politics could shape Florida's legislative session

Combating the surge in youth gun violence in Florida

Florida Humanities celebrates 50 years sharing stories of our state

How journalists can rebuild trust in the media and fight misinformation

How consumer confidence could affect holiday shopping

How Medicaid unwinding affects the health care of Floridians, and how to navigate Medicare enrollment

Southwest Florida's Babcock Ranch offers lessons in resilience and sustainability

A look at Ybor City's history in the midst of urban renewal

Why Halloween has been scaring up some serious business

Debates over parental rights, school choice and what should be taught in public schools have embroiled state lawmakers and local school districts.

Tampa Bay region's Hispanic-owned businesses face challenges - and opportunities

The race to protect Florida's Wildlife Corridor

Assessing the impact of Hurricane Ian, one year later; Hernando County recovers from Idalia

A closer look at pro sports in the Tampa Bay region as Rays seal the deal on a new stadium

Pinellas County's beaches continue to erode as renourishment plans remain at a standstill

Our Changing State: Florida's shifting politics and the impact on its diverse residents

In the fifth part of our series, we’re talking about the economy. Florida's economy has been labeled white hot, with a $1.4 trillion GDP and unemployment of 2.6%. That’s nearly a percentage point below the national unemployment rate. But our soaring economy may be leaving some Floridians behind.

Our Changing State: imagining a future for Florida's transportation needs

In the fourth part of our Changing State series, we’re talking about Florida's cultural history. The discussion includes how we see ourselves, and how the rest of the world sees us, and how that's changing.

Our Changing State: conserving our natural environment despite growth, climate change

Our Changing State: how housing challenges are impacting local residents

Our Changing State: Florida's shifting politics and the impact on its diverse residents

In the fifth part of our series, we’re talking about the economy. Florida's economy has been labeled white hot, with a $1.4 trillion GDP and unemployment of 2.6%. That’s nearly a percentage point below the national unemployment rate. But our soaring economy may be leaving some Floridians behind.

In the fourth part of our Changing State series, we’re talking about Florida's cultural history. The discussion includes how we see ourselves, and how the rest of the world sees us, and how that's changing.

Our Changing State: imagining a future for Florida's transportation needs

Our Changing State: conserving our natural environment despite growth, climate change

Our Changing State: how housing challenges are impacting local residents

USF researcher shares what he learned from his 100-day stay underwater

We explore the rich history of baseball in the Tampa Bay region — from the early days of Spring Training to the Tampa Bay Rays, celebrating their 25th season this year.

We talk about summer reads with Kelsey Jagneaux of Tombolo Books. We discuss the latest bestsellers, local authors including Alicia Thompson and Tyler Gillespie and some of the most anticipated books of the summer from authors like Colson Whitehead.

Florida Matters talks with former senator Jeff Brandes about his new Florida Policy Project

We’re talking about the state’s new immigration law and what it means for Floridians. Senate Bill 1718 is already having an impact, even though it doesn’t go into effect until next month. The new rules aim to crack down on undocumented immigrants and businesses that employ them.

Educating young people about Juneteenth amid restrictions from lawmakers

With the 2023 Hurricane season underway, we discuss what causes storms to spin up in the Atlantic and lessons learned from Hurricane Ian.

We’re talking about the challenges facing Floridians on the edge of poverty in Tampa Bay. Two out of five Floridians are living on the edge of poverty. That’s according to a report published in April by United Way Suncoast.

We discuss the impact of Florida's culture war issues on teachers, students and parents. And we’ll talk about other big changes in education — like the school voucher extension — and what it could cost.

We explore new legislation that affects the LGBTQ community in Florida, including a ban on gender affirming care for minors.

We look at the impact of the state legislative session that wrapped up last week. Lawmakers approved a $117 billion budget and passed laws on guns, housing, education and more. They also passed a slate of bills that could help Gov. DeSantis if he runs for president.

Voter education and registration groups react to the elections bill that targets their efforts

After a series of recent columns on the Ruby Bridges movie debate, local writer speaks on parental rights and teaching black history

Professors say House Bill 999 would be horrific for academic freedom at Florida's state universities

Progress on permitless carry, school vouchers and more mark the Florida Legislature's halfway point

We talk with two experts on marine biology and ocean circulation about where red tide comes from, how it’s affected by pollution and hurricanes and how scientists are monitoring it. Red tide has killed tonnes of fish along Tampa Bay beaches this year.

A former Tampa Bay-area columnist reflects on life experiences in his new book

Florida Matters recaps the 2023 State of the State address

The legislative session starts March 7 so we’re discussing changes that could be made to Florida laws and how it could affect you. Host Matthew Peddie talks with journalists Mitch Perry and Lynn Hatter to discuss new legislation.

Florida Matters examines state lawmakers' efforts to challenge DEI school policies

We’re talking with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor about challenges facing the city, and the issues she thinks are important for Tampa — improving mass transit, building more affordable housing, what a more conservative state legislature means for the city and more.

The Zest host shares highlights from season 7 of the podcast

How the Tropicana Field redevelopment could reshape St. Petersburg

After TBARTA dissolution, regional transit remains an obstacle for county officials to solve

As Tampa experiences its hottest year, sustainability expert says he’s preparing Tampa for a warmer future

We’re talking about right wing conservatism in Florida and extremist groups, two years after the January 6th uprising at the US Capitol.

We break down impact of new legislation on Florida’s property insurance issues

On this week's Florida Matters....

A former congressman shares his thoughts on Florida’s divided political environment

Two weeks before election, we break down the most important issues to you

Young voters say their trust in political systems is gone but they’ll still vote next month

We talk with local election officials about voting in next month’s elections. Misinformation, disinformation and the aftermath of Hurricane Ian may complicate the process for voters. But Brian Corley, supervisor of elections in Pasco County, and Hillsborough County counterpart Craig Latimer say they are confident their systems will prevail.

We hear from survivors of Hurricane Ian across Central and Southwest Florida and discuss the challenges of rebuilding going forward. WUSF reporters spoke with residents and business owners from Myakka City to Bonita Springs about the storm.

We highlight a new oral history project about how the COVID-19 pandemic affected Black and Brown Floridians in the greater Tampa Bay region. We'll feature two interviews from the Florida Humanities-funded project and hear from one of its producers.

We highlight WUSF's recent series focusing on the challenges Black Americans face as they try to maintain their mental health.

Over two years into a pandemic, Tampa Bay businesses are looking at hybrid and remote work

After the August primaries, Sarasota’s non-partisan school board sees shift to conservative majority

We talk with a University of South Florida anthropologist and author about her recently-published book, “We Carry Their Bones.” In 2012, a team of researchers lead by Erin Kimmerle uncovered the graves of young boys buried at the notorious Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys.

Primary elections are just a week away so we discuss the issues and candidates on the ballot. Although Governor Ron DeSantis has no primary opponent, he still has an influence on races across the state.

We discuss the challenges students and teachers face as a new school year begins. Schools in most counties in the greater Tampa Bay region open on Wednesday. And school districts are facing teacher shortages, with some missing hundreds.

We talk with local author and historian Gary Mormino about his latest book on the Sunshine State's influence during the early 21st century.

We dive into where abortion now stands in Florida -- a month since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

We discuss Florida's literary scene and get summer reading recommendations from a local book critic and independent bookstore owner.

We hear from local food entrepreneurs who started their small businesses. Host Matthew Peddie talks with Zach Correa of lemonGRAFT, Sam Meyers of Tampa Bay Rum Company and Shayla Daniels of Chez Shay’s Sweets.

We explore suggestions for local summer "staycations" with Tampa-based author and journalist Kristen Hare. Since 2014, she's written the "100 Things to do in Tampa Bay Before You Die" series.

We get an update on water quality in the Tampa Bay region from WUSF reporter Steve Newborn. He's reported on incidents like last year's toxic wastewater spill from the former Piney Point phosphate plant threatened the region's estuaries and marine life.

We talk with St. Petersburg mayor Ken Welch about his priorities for his first term. We visited Welch at his office in City Hall for a conversation about the Tropicana redevelopment, affordable housing, transportation and other challenges facing the city.

We hear from Tampa Bay regional residents about what needs to change to stem the tide of gun violence. Later in the show — with the special session on property insurance in the rear view mirror — can homeowners expect some relief from skyrocketing premiums?

We talk with Kerry Sheridan and Bailey LeFever, the reporters behind a series of audio postcards featuring the voices of Tampa Bay area teachers. Over the course of the show, you’ll also hear three of the postcards they produced on topics such as teacher morale and parental involvement.

Hurricane season starts next week and we learn about what to expect this season — and how to get ready. Forecasters are expecting another busier than average storm season, with as many as nine hurricanes.

The state’s property insurance market is in big trouble. Homeowners are paying more for less coverage as insurance companies shed customers. Some companies have gone under. Lawmakers return to Tallahassee next week for a special session to deal with the crisis.

We talk with Health News Florida reporter Stephanie Colombini about her reporting on Florida’s “No Patient Left Alone” act. The new law lets family members visit patients in health care facilities — even during an emergency like a pandemic.

We discuss the leadership style of Governor Ron DeSantis, leading up to the November mid-term elections. His priorities during the latest legislative session have put him at the leading edge of the country’s “culture war.”

We break down what Florida’s new congressional map means for voters

We explore climate change's impact in the Tampa Bay region and how some cities are planning to adapt. Sea-level rise threatens the more than three million people who live in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater metro areas — and the nearly five million in the entire region.

We take a walking tour of a Tampa Bay History Center exhibit highlighting the Cuba-Tampa connection. Called Cuban Pathways, it explores a relationship that started almost 500 years before South Florida's better known tie to the island.

Longboat Key's Democrat and Republican clubs want to change the conversation around politics

We continue our look at housing affordability. As the region sees explosive growth, residents are dealing with soaring rents. Others are finding it difficult to buy a home. We’ll hear from Tampa Bay residents sharing their experiences in a tough rental market.

We hear from area residents with close ties to Ukraine who share their perspective on the Russian invasion. Among the featured voices are the pastor and two parishioners of a local Ukrainian Catholic Church as well as a University of South Florida student from Ukraine.

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2022-03-01/bradenton-restauranteur-says-supply-chain-problems-and-worker-shortages-havent-stopped-him-yet

We break down a new proposal to bring the Tampa Bay Rays to Tampa. Last year, the Tampa Sports Authority commissioned a report to understand how the city could attract the baseball team to Ybor City.

We hear from two Tampa Bay area lawmakers taking part in this year's legislative session. Jeff Brandes is a Republican state senator serving most of southern Pinellas County. Michele Rayner is a Democratic state representative serving parts of south St. Petersburg, Hillsborough and Manatee counties.

We check in on the Florida Legislature as lawmakers reach the midway mark of the 60-day session in Tallahassee. Among the issues being considered this year, redistricting, abortion, education, voting and pre-emption are the most contentious.

As the Curtis Reeves trial nears, Florida Matters explores Florida's Stand Your Ground law

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2022-01-25/rising-housing-costs-are-prompting-protests-and-possible-solution-from-lawmakers-across-tampa-bay

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2022-01-18/racism-study-authors-talk-highlighting-the-past-and-making-suggestions-for-the-future

Florida Matters recaps the 2022 State of the State address

We preview Florida's upcoming legislative session, which starts on Jan. 11 in Tallahassee. The 60 days will be filled with debating bills on issues important to lawmakers and Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is up for re-election.

We recap COVID-19 in 2021

We examine local, state and Congressional redistricting as Florida lawmakers prepare for their once-in-a decade responsibility of drafting electoral maps. The process will be an important part of the legislative session that starts next month, especially because Florida gained one new congressional district due to population growth.

We look at the continuing impact of Florida's phosphate industry. Most of the nation's phosphate has been mined from the Tampa Bay region. Recently, WUSF has extensively reported on efforts to open a new mine in DeSoto County.

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-11-30/we-highlight-the-latest-unequal-shots-story-on-african-americans-and-mental-health-during-the-pandemic

We learn more about Tampa Bay's emerging technology scene. In recent years, Tampa in particular has quietly become a go-to destination for start-up companies and technology businesses looking to relocate.

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-11-16/as-mental-health-effects-of-the-pandemic-linger-a-local-211-center-still-sees-high-call-volumes

With a new mayor decided for St. Pete, Rick Kriseman reflects on eight years in office

Food Insecurity Is Still An Issue in Tampa Bay, Even As The Pandemic Seems to Wane

We explore Tampa Bay's hurricane preparedness, 100 years after the Tarpon Springs Hurricane

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-10-19/angry-parents-derail-sarasota-school-board-meetings-two-board-members-tell-us-whats-next

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-10-12/at-forum-st-pete-mayoral-candidates-share-their-plans-for-the-city

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-10-05/fema-flood-insurance-program-new-rating-system-florida-home-premiums-set-to-rise

We explore Tampa’s Hispanic food culture for Hispanic Heritage Month. Host Bradley George starts with a short conversation about the Cuban sandwich. We also learn about Tampa’s early Cuban residents and some other foods they introduced to Floridians.

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-09-21/new-wusf-series-focuses-on-inequities-in-vaccine-access-and-information

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-09-14/tampa-bay-based-project-continues-the-work-of-highlighting-unearthed-cemeteries

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-09-07/ahead-of-20th-anniversary-florida-matters-looks-at-tampa-bay-connection-to-9-11

The stage is set for a November election, where voters will pick St. Petersburg’s next mayor. The race pits Pinellas County commissioner Ken Welch against city council member Robert Blackmon. We hear from both candidates.

We're taking a deeper dive into the 2020 census and what changes it shows about Florida over the past decade. The once-a-decade count determines everything from the number of congressional seats each state gets, to where federal funding goes.

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-08-17/desantis-enforces-executive-order-to-have-final-say-on-masks-but-some-local-officials-are-fighting-to-change-that

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-08-10/wusfs-the-zest-podcast-launches-its-fourth-season

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-08-03/floridas-covid-cases-rise-as-schools-reopen-for-a-new-year-its-become-a-cause-for-concern

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-07-27/with-steve-currall-out-whats-next-for-the-usf-presidency

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-07-20/after-making-few-changes-pasco-sheriff-continues-controversial-policing-tactics

Surfside Building Collapse Highlights Gaps In Florida Building Code And Condo Associations

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-06-22/algae-blooms-are-affecting-both-florida-coasts-beachgoers-manatees-are-paying-the-price

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-06-15/florida-matters-reflects-on-lgbtq-life-in-florida

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-06-08/the-rays-future-in-tampa-bay-remains-murky-after-recent-drama-among-st-petersburg-officials

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-06-01/a-year-ago-protests-about-george-floyd-erupted-on-tampa-bays-streets

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-05-25/new-gaming-deal-may-expand-gambling-in-florida-but-first-it-heads-to-federal-officials-for-approval

Full  story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-05-19/what-might-this-years-hurricane-season-look-like

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-05-11/as-vaccinations-start-to-lag-vaccine-education-and-incentives-ramp-up

Florida’s 2021 legislative session came to an end this past Friday. On this week’s episode, host Steve Newborn and Zac Anderson, political editor for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, break down which bills became law over the two-month session.

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-04-27/florida-matters-hears-three-floridians-perspectives-on-the-derek-chauvin-verdict

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-04-20/florida-panther-featured-in-national-geographics-april-issue

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-04-13/as-piney-points-future-becomes-clearer-florida-matters-looks-at-its-potential-long-term-impacts

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-04-06/halfway-through-the-2021-legislative-session-whats-the-status-of-bills-in-progress

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-03-30/st-petersburg-community-leaders-share-optimism-and-concern-for-tropicana-field-sites-future

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-03-23/with-hillsboroughs-1-cent-tax-ruled-unconstitutional-how-does-that-affect-the-countys-transportation-issues

Link to the story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-03-16/one-year-later-floridians-take-stock-of-whats-still-uncertain

With The Biden Administration At Work, What Does That Mean For The Gulf Of Mexico?

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-12-09/long-faced-with-sub-standard-conditions-farm-workers-deal-with-added-challenges-during-a-pandemic

Link: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-03-02/gov-desantis-deepens-divisions-looks-to-re-election-in-state-of-the-state-address

Class Of COVID-19 Project Gives Many Faces To Florida's Education System Issues

Link to the full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-02-16/tampa-native-marty-baron-retires-after-storied-career-in-journalism

Link to the story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-01-26/what-could-a-scaled-back-super-bowl-look-like-for-tampa-bay

Link: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-01-12/after-a-socially-distant-year-the-zest-podcast-returns-with-a-greater-focus-on-florida-food-history

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2021-01-05/what-will-florida-politics-look-like-in-2021

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-12-22/heres-what-its-like-to-run-a-clinical-trial-during-a-pandemic

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-12-15/calls-to-tampa-bays-211-center-are-increasing-during-the-holiday-season

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-12-01/florida-may-see-fewer-snowbirds-this-winter-what-does-that-mean-for-the-tampa-bay-businesses-they-frequent

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-11-24/with-covid-cases-surging-do-we-gather-virtually-or-in-person-this-thanksgiving

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-11-17/in-the-quest-to-re-engage-voters-florida-democrats-have-a-long-road-ahead

Full web story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-11-10/i-4-corridor-voters-give-their-post-election-reactions

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-10-27/florida-matters-hears-from-a-first-time-voter-gets-an-update-on-early-voting  

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-10-21/covid-19-survivors-tell-their-stories-urge-the-public-take-the-virus-seriously  

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-10-14/small-businesses-are-still-adapting-to-reopening  

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-10-06/voting-by-mail-a-popular-option-ahead-of-novembers-election  

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-09-30/for-novembers-election-pinellas-county-is-one-of-the-largest-swing-counties-at-play  

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/2020-09-23/much-like-in-2016-disinformation-is-a-concern-for-the-upcoming-election

Full story:  https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-09-16/tampa-bays-small-music-venues-struggle-with-no-end-in-sight

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-09-02/with-eviction-relief-extended-the-future-is-again-on-hold-for-renters-and-landlords

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-08-26/uncertainty-remains-as-k-12-schools-and-colleges-open-for-class

Full story: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/show/florida-matters/2020-08-18/florida-faces-census-challenges-ahead-of-september-deadline

Days before the shutdown to slow the spread of COVID 19, David Brancaccio, host of the Marketplace Morning Report, visited downtown St. Petersburg for a live event. He joined host Bradley George at the Palladium touching on a wide variety of topics.

The coronavirus pandemic is not only taking its toll of the nation’s healthcare system, but also its businesses. This week, Florida Matters takes a look at small businesses, which are particularly hard hit.

This election cycle, WUSF is focusing on the issues rather than the political horse race. We've teamed up with NPR member station WMFE in Orlando for I-4 Votes, a collaboration covering the issues that matter to those along the I-4 corridor.

Professional wrestling, or as it’s called in some circles, “sports entertainment,” has a long history in Florida and in Tampa. It date back to the days of Championship Wrestling in Florida.

Historian Canter Brown takes a look at the man who literally put Tampa on the map. He has written a new book, Henry Bradley Plant: Gilded Age Dreams for Florida and the New South."

A new comprehensive book – "Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories" – takes a look at the historic individuals who helped shape Florida's early history.

Florida's state animal has never had it very good. The Florida Panther was shot at, run off its hunting grounds and hemmed in by roads and development. It got so bad that by the early 1990s, only a few remained.

WUSF's Robin Sussingham talks with Brian Corley, supervisor of elections with Pasco County, and Miles Parks, a reporter with National Public Radio in Washington, D.C.

As the Florida Legislature opens its 2020 session, Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed House and Senate members Tuesday during his State of the State address.

This week on Florida Matters, we sat down with local political reporters to look at the2020 Florida Legislature and discuss some of the most pressing issues facing our state.

This week on Florida Matters, we share some of our favorite discussions about plants, animals and environmental challenges facing our state.

2019 was a year full of politics, historic anniversaries and ever changing industries here in Florida. This week on Florida Matters we take a look back at a few stories that helped shape our area.

Holiday traditions take shape in many forms, and this week on Florida Matters, we take a look at some of our WUSF staff's favorite family holiday traditions.

This week on Florida Matters, we take a look into the development of Lakewood Ranch. We learn how a parcel of land the roughly the size of Manhattan turned into a new community just off Interstate 75 in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

We bring you a special Thanksgiving program featuring some of our favorite stories about food in the sunshine state. There is a lot to be thankful for here in the land of citrus, seafood, Spanish flavor with a splash of southern charm.

From roller coasters to virtual rides Florida's theme parks have helped redefine family entertainment. We wanted to learn about what is being done to deliver this once in a lifetime experience.

Many people may not realize that wine making in Florida is a billion-dollar industry. There are dozens of wineries across the state employing nearly 100,000 people, and university research departments dedicated to viticulture.

Former Senator Bill Nelson recently spoke at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. Where the new American Center for Political Leadership presented him an award for his long public service.

This week on Florida Matters we discuss the concerns of more than 28 hundred cases of hepatitis A being diagnosed in Florida so far this year.

Mass transit in Tampa Bay's densely populated big cities grabs the headlines. But there's a case to be made that transportation has even more of an impact on people living in rural areas.

With the population in the Tampa Bay area growing so has the traffic. Transportation leaders have proposed many ideas about how to help people get around faster.

This week on Florida Matters we talk about how some of our region’s airports are changing to make travel more convenient.

Florida is one of the top states in the country in honey production. It's also an important wintering ground for commercial beekeepers up north, with their "snow bees."

Over the next few weeks, WUSF will be sharing stories produced for One Small Step, the latest project from StoryCorps. Each segment features two strangers, with differing political beliefs, sitting down together and having a conversation.

Florida's coral reefs are in trouble. Scientists say they've been declining for decades. Researchers have very recently come up with some results that show promise in restoring these beautiful and important marine communities.

Historians and local old-timers say that once, Tampa Bay was overflowing with delicious oysters. And that some rivers, like the Manatee River, were once so full of mullet that they noisily roiled the water.

Leaky pipes, broken water mains, sewage spills. Tampa Bay's storm water infrastructure is aging, and it will be very expensive to fix it. Host Robin Sussingham discusses the state of our sewage system.

It might be one of the state's best kept secrets, but Florida wine making is a billion dollar industry! There are dozens of wineries across the state, employing nearly a hundred thousand people.

You see it being sold everywhere now. You saw it everywhere even before it became legal on July 1st.  Is it regulated? Is it safe? What does it do? If you're confused about CBD oil, you're not alone. 

They've had to battle shark attacks, pollution, massive beach developments and confusing light sources but sea turtles are bouncing back. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, green sea turtle nests were up to 39,000 in 2017

July 20th marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, one of the most significant achievements in U.S. history. To mark the event, PBS stations will be airing a six-hour documentary "Chasing the Moon."

Summer is the time when we dream we'll have the leisure to sit down with a good book. Maybe you want to use that time to read the Russian novel you never got to in college, or maybe it's a light-hearted romance that you can read at the beach.

After 19 years as President of the University of South Florida, Judy Genshaft is stepping down. This week on Florida Matters we talk about her tenure, with WUSF assistant news directors Mark Schreiner and Steve Newborn.

This week on Florida Matters we talk with nutrition experts about the keto diet and how it can affect your health, from weight loss to possibly treating cancer.

This week on Florida Matters: Podcasting 101. Florida Matters host Robin Sussingham talks to Kenny Malone of the Planet Money podcast; and Dalia Colón, producer of WUSF's The Zest podcast.

Lovebugs, termites, mosquitoes, cockroaches – there is no doubt that Florida is home to many insects, and they seem to thrive in the state's hot, humid conditions. This week on Florida Matters we’re talking about how to deal with them.

This week on Florida Matters, host Robin Sussingham talks with Jack E. Davis, whose book The Gulf: The Making of An American Sea won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for History.

Citrus has shaped the state's identity for a hundred years. But it's been a rough ten years, with freezes, hurricanes, development pressure and disease. And when the industry needs help the most, Tallahassee doesn't seem to be that interested.

Jane Castor is in her first weeks as the new mayor of Tampa. Her position as the first gay mayor in the Southeast didn't come up much during the campaign, but she made national news the day after her victory.

The 2019 state legislative session ended Saturday. Governor Ron DeSantis says, "We have put people over politics." There was still quite a lot of political theater to be found, though.

With Florida’s population on the rise, we're taking a look at how we’re adapting. "Zoning" may sound mundane but in reality, it's anything but! Zoning and building regulations affect us intimately -- because they hit us where we live.

These are exciting times in Tampa Bay. Our cuisine is better, more varied and drawing national attention. Florida Matters hosted a taping in front of a live audience this year at the St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs at USF St. Petersburg.

Florida is home to more than 500 invasive species. Not all of these plants and animals are big and scary like pythons, but they can still harm the state’s native wildlife, and a lot of time and money is spent fighting them.

A new mayor of Tampa will be elected on April 23rd. The two remaining candidates, Jane Castor and David Straz, debated at the WEDU PBS studio, and we're bringing that debate to you.

Alternative kinds of housing like shipping containers or tiny houses are quickly growing in popularity. We discuss whether they could help relieve some of the pressure from the affordable housing crunch.

Florida’s legislative session has been underway for almost a month and there have already been some big changes. We talk with reporters about key issues lawmakers are considering and how their actions could affect our lives on this week’s Florida Matters.

Historians and local old-timers say that once, Tampa Bay was overflowing with delicious oysters. And some rivers, like the Manatee River, were so full of mullet that they roiled the water and their noise kept nearby residents awake at night.

Tourism is a vital industry for our state, and Florida Matters is taking a look at how businesses fared in the wake of red tide, what's new with our theme parks, and where tourism is heading after another record-breaking year.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis kicked off the 2019 legislative session with his first State of the State address. He asked lawmakers to "be bold" as they address issues like education, the environment and health care.

Florida ranks third in the nation for the number of calls placed to the national human trafficking hotline. The Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a summit on the topic during a luncheon for local business owners.

These are exciting times in the Tampa Bay area! Our cuisine is better, more varied, and it's starting to draw national attention. Host Robin Sussingham recently moderated a panel on international dining at the St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs.

This week's Florida Matters highlights some of the places and events that make Plant City special, like the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, which houses more than 120,000 images and countless other items that capture the town's legacy.

Growth is no stranger to Florida. We’ve been a magnet for migrants, immigrants and sun-seekers for hundreds of years. But will too much growth crowd out what people come here for to begin with?

The annual Gasparilla celebration is one of Tampa Bay's biggest social events, drawing in hundreds of thousands of people to live the pirate life. The tradition has also played an important role in Tampa's high society.

Florida’s new Governor Ron DeSantis has wasted no time in putting his stamp on the state. This week on Florida Matters we take a look at some of his actions so far.

Look up "keto cookbooks" and you find a plethora of options: Quick and Easy Ketogenic Cooking, Southern Keto, Ketogenic Cleanse, Keto Comfort Foods… It’s fair to say this is a diet craze. But does it really work?

Happy 2019! As WUSF prepares to bring you the news you rely on this year, we’re looking back at some of the station's big moments in 2018 through the lens of Florida Matters.

Much has happened in our state this year. This week on Florida Matters we revisit some of the major events and news stories that affected Tampa Bay and our state in 2018.

Alternative kinds of housing like shipping containers or tiny houses are quickly growing in popularity. We discuss whether they could help relieve some of the pressure from the affordable housing crunch.

Last year, our series, "Telling Tampa Bay Stories," took us to Tampa's Progress Village. This year, the focus is Plant City -- a Hillsborough County community where agriculture and development, history and progress all meet.

Retail is changing and there will be winners and losers. Florida Matters Host Robin Sussingham talks about the secrets to retail success. And why do the big drug stores always want to be right next to each other?

Florida Matters host Robin Sussingham recently moderated a community discussion about veteran entrepreneurs. The panel took place in front of a live audience at USF St. Petersburg.

The 2018 midterm election was supposed to be over last night, but this is Florida, so of course it looks like there will be at least one recount, and maybe several. Host Robin Sussingham talks about winners, losers, taxes and gambling, among other topics.

Florida Matters Host Robin Sussingham sits down with long time political journalist and analyst William March to talk about the political zeitgeist, whether polls can be trusted, and whether the issue of gun control is working for the Democrats.

Florida cancelled its tax credits for film makers in 2016. Industry observers say big productions are moving to places like Georgia. But several studies have come out saying state support for the film industry might not be worth the money.

The annual storytelling festival has just finished up and Florida Matters host Robin Sussingham sits down with Lillian Dunlap, executive director of Your Real Stories and creator of Story Days in Tampa Bay.

Hurricane Michael disrupted our plans for Florida Matters this week...so we're rebroadcasting a great one! On this week's podcast, we talk about what makes a craft beer special.

Forty-nine people died in the Pulse nightclub mass shooting in Orlando in 2016, but new information indicates that 16 of those victims may have been able to survive their injuries -- if they'd been treated sooner.

GrowHealthy and Trulieve are licensed medical marijuana treatment centers, authorized to cultivate, process and dispense medical marijuana in Florida. They tell us you will need very deep pockets to get started in the medical cannabis biz in Florida.

Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico a year ago this month, and on WUSF's Florida Matters we're hearing the stories of people who fled to the Tampa area when they had to evacuate. On today's podcast, a conversation with WUSF reporter Roberto Roldan.

Robin Sussingham had a chance to speak with Jordan Peterson before his appearance at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg this weekend, catching up with him while he was in Miami for a book tour event there.

WUSF's expert on all things related to USF, Mark Schreiner, joins Robin to talk about his series on entrepreneurs with ties to the University of South Florida. And USF President Judy Genshaft is retiring. Mark discusses her impact at the University.

It was an exciting state primary election with some unexpected results, and we break it down with Zac Anderson, editor of the Sarasota Herald Tribune, and William March, longtime political analyst and journalist.