Shows
Florida SpectacularEpisode 197: Tiki Culture, Clearwater, and Tiki-a-Go-GoSend us your Florida questions!Jon Bortles joins Cathy and Rick to talk about Florida Tiki culture and all things Tiki. Bahi Hut Meetup with Rick, Cathy, and Jon — April 11, 7 p.m.Links We MentionedTahitian Motor Lodge TarponTahitian Inn TampaHawaiian Inn DaytonaBest Western Aku TikiPeking Palace in ClearwaterMai KaiJulian's Ormond BeachThe HonuSupport the showQ...2025-03-2639 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 194: Botanical Gardens, Flamingos, and Florida Yard LizardsSend us your Florida questions! Cathy and Rick give a whirlwind tour of botanical gardens they have loved, talk about Rick's proposal to his wife and where he hid her ring, how to pronounce anole, and where to find flamingos. Links We MentionedFlorida Botanical GardensHarry P. Leu GardensOrlando Exploration GardensBrown anoles and more about themSelby Botanical Gardens (and the George Harrison exhibit)Boiled books Botanical gardens at Cypress GardensBok Tower Gardens2025-03-0542 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 192: Spectacular Madcaps: Protect Florida Springs, Manatee Cavorting, and Other NSFW Environmental Fun FactsSend us your Florida questions!At the Florida Springs Council, the Florida Madcaps podcast host Ryan Worthington and Florida Spectacular host Cathy Salustri taped a crossover podcast in front of a live audience. Their guests are Max Chesnes, the Tampa Bay Times environmental reporter; TJ Fridrich, a biologist with Save the Manatee Club; and Federico Acevedo, of the Florida Wildlife Federation. The podcast subjects — a definite variation from either's usual format — ranged from the 2024 "golf courses in the parks" debacle to manatees cavorting (we'd call it reproductive behavior, but according to TJ, the way these sea c...2025-02-1957 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 187: Florida's Lost SpringsSend us your Florida questions!Ever heard of a zero-magnitude spring? It's a spring that has "historic flow" — meaning it doesn't have any water anymore (usually — some get water during times of heavy rain). Rick and Cathy talk about some of Florida's lost springs.Links We MentionedMosaic Peace ParkWakulla Springs State ParkDaytona's Atomic TunnelWhite Sulphur SpringsHampton SpringsNewport SpringsSuwannee SpringsWorthington SpringsBenjamin Dimmitt: An Unflinching LookAroun...2025-01-1553 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 186: City and County Florida Parks You Need To VisitSend us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick talk about their favorite parks that aren't state parks.City and County Florida Parks You Need To VisitFort De Soto (St. Petersburg)Greenwood Cemetery (map showing GAR) (Orland)Mead Botanical Gardens (Winter Park)Boyd Hill (St. Petersburg)Moss Park (Orlando)Shingle Creek (Kissimmee)Princess Place Preserve (Flagler County)Brooker Creek Preserve (North Pinellas County)Weedon Island (St. Petersburg)Clam Bayou (Gulfport)Juan...2025-01-0843 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 181: Florida Gratitude, How To Kill Someone, and Florida AdventuresSend us your Florida questions!What started as an episode on gratitude for Florida things meandered as much as the Kissimmee River in the 1920s. Rick and Cathy talk about what they're grateful for in Florida, and — naturally — that turns to talk of finding dead bodies and how to kill someone. It's the most nontraditional Thanksgiving episode ever. Take a listen.Links We MentionedWhite Gate CourtDrawdown on the Oklawaha RiverBirding in FloridaCrescent Moon Mysteries by Tara LushBury me unde...2024-11-2755 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 176: Creepy Florida Road TripsSend us your Florida questions!With scary season in full swing, Cathy and Rick talk about some of the creepiest — and most fun — places they've visited along the roadside.Potter's Wax MuseumHall of Presidents in Clermont, what's in the gift shop, and a blog post from RickThe Sandman MotelCasa MarinaJungle AdventureBarberville ProduceSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Florida Spec...2024-10-2339 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 173: Hurricane Helene, Gulfport, and What To Do NextSend us your Florida questions!In wake — the literal one — of storm surge from Hurricane Helene, Cathy and Rick talk about what Gulfport looks like, what's next for the 25% of Gulfport residents who no longer have a home, and who's been helping.Links We MentionedThe Gabber Newspaper's Helene coverageGulfport web camerasWorld Central Kitchen Shawarma KingSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Flor...2024-10-0251 min
Florida SpectacularFlorida Keys Spectacular Episode 20: Are Skunk Apes Real?Send us your Florida questions!Brad wrote a (mostly) fictional book, The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files. While many of the narratives in the book came from the depths of his imagination, not all of them are false. Brad and Cathy talk about real stories of people who believe they saw a skunk ape. They also talk about why they both believe the Skunk Ape — and other bigfoots — exist. Cathy's favorite quote about what we know about what is real:"Fifteen hundred years ago everybody knew the Earth was the center of the unive...2024-09-2632 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 172: What To Do in Sanford (Folk Art Version)Send us your Florida questions!Florida has a treasure trove of Folk, or Self-Taught, Artists. Bailey Wright, with Jeanine Taylor Folk Art in Sanford, joins the podcast to talk about Florida Folk art and the gallery's upcoming exhibit (featuring Rick!), Florida Gothic. While the show runs a limited time, there's no shortage of arts, food, and culture in Sanford. Rick, Bailey, and Cathy talk about all the things and yes, Sanford does have a craft marshmallow maker.Links We MentionedFlorida Gothic Folk showMennello Museum of American Art2024-09-2542 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 169: Floridasplaining, Decolonized Florida History, and Spectacular FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about what went into researching Cathy's new book, Florida Spectacular. They also talk about how to approach Florida history that challenges traditional interpretations of historic events, what Cathy learned from the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and why the ideas of "Florida Man" and "Real Florida" both hurt the Sunshine State.Links We MentionedFlorida Spectacular The Idea of FloridaFlorida's Healing WatersSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at c...2024-09-0441 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 167: Florida State Parks at Risk: Keep Your Paws Off Our Parks!Send us your Florida questions!This podcast was supposed to be about Ryan Worthington's quest to visit all 175 Florida State Parks, but then FDEP announced plans to build giant hotels and golf courses in the state parks. Ryan, Cathy, and Rick talk about the plans and what action people can take if they don't want to see the parks get paved.Florida State Parks at RiskClick the links for the meeting locations — they do not take place at the parks!Hillsborough River State ParkHoneymoon Island State Park...2024-08-2443 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 163: Florida Crackers, Moonshine, and Florida Cattle Ranching TodaySend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy look at Florida crackers: Cracker culture, Florida cowboys, and cracker villages. Links We MentionedThe Secret History of the Word CrackerFlorida Wildlife Corridor and Wild Space GalleryFlorida Cracker HorseFlorida Cattle HistoryLake Kissimmee State Park Cow CampFlorida Cracker entry at FL MemoryRick's post about Kissimmee/Osceola Co cattle historyFort ChristmasRick's post about ChristmasDade City's FL Pioneer Village2024-07-2436 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 160: Dinner and Show: How To Do Kissimmee (And Not Look Like a Tourist)Send us your Florida questions!This week, the best parts of Kissimmee, from roadside ephemera to the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Stay Legacy Vacation Resorts, Cathy found it to be a great home base for exploring the less touristy areas of the area. Disclaimer: Legacy hosted most of her stay, but she chose to mention them because of the B Corp certification and location. EatWoodsby's CafeCatfish Place St. Cloud1881 Restaurant & BarExploreShin...2024-07-0432 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 154: Shark's Teeth, Dog Beaches, and Healing Waters: Venice and Warm Mineral SpringsSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy take a (metaphorical) dive into Warm Mineral Springs and the Venice/Nokomis area. They give you a guide of things to do and places to eat along the Venice/Nokomis coast. Don't forget to subscribe to Florida Keys Spectacular — premium content about the Florida Keys! Support all things Spectacular, starting at $5/month.Warm Mineral and Little Salt SpringsWarm Mineral Springs (City of Northport)More about Warm Mineral Springs (Visit Sarasota)"Revisiting Warm Mineral Springs" (Rick's post)2024-05-2234 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 153: Hurricanes: The Good, the Bad, and the WindySend us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick talk about Florida hurricane prep, the history of hurricanes, and how to prepare without freaking out. Links We MentionedHurricanes.govOranges and Alligators: Sketches of South Florida Life by Iza Duffy HardyStormy Weather by Carl HiaasenHurricane prep suggestions: Turn off your TV and check hurricanes.gov, the least weather-terroristy source for real news. Instead of bottled water, buy five gallon reusable jugs (we suggest glass, but you can get plastic ones, too) and a U...2024-05-1543 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 150: Florida Springs: How Anyone Can HelpSend us your Florida questions!Ryan Smart, Executive Director of the Florida Springs Council, joins Cathy and Rick on the podcast to answer a listener's questions about Florida springs.Q: If the springs naturally come to the surface, why would the bottled water companies need permits to pump out? A: We answer this more in-depth in the podcast, but it's because they don't scoop the water out of the springhead — they tap the spring with a well, and they need permission for that. Q: When I lived in Orlando there was a Spr...2024-04-2542 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 149: Top Tiki Bars and Experiences in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick talk about their favorite Tiki bars and events in Florida. Links We MentionedThe Donn of Tiki filmTiki hotels in Daytona BeachTiki BarsBahi Hut in SarasotaThe Wreck Bar in Fort Lauderdale (Rick's post)Mai Kai in Fort Lauderdale (Rick's post)Don the Beachcomber in Madeira BeachSuffering Bastard in SanfordTrader Sam's Grog Grotto at Walt Disney WorldBar Ti...2024-04-1836 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 142: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Citrus, and Writing in the WoodsSend us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick talk about how nature influences their writing, Cathy's camping experience at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Rick's upcoming keynote at the MKR annual conference, and where to find wild citrus.Links We MentionedMatheson Museum, with the anniversary exhibit Rick designedSquarehouse Pizza in Gainesville (Formerly Satch Squared, partly owned by Satchel's Pizza)Rawlings Society and annual conference in MayMarjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park and its Citizen Support Organization (also called a "friends group")2024-02-2835 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 141: Pirates, Bureaucracy, and GasparillaSend us your Florida questions!People love pirate lore — but what did it mean to be a pirate in Florida? According to Cathy, a lot more bureaucracy than you'd think. Rick and Cathy talk about pirates, real and imagined, and make a few Florida detours along the way.Links We MentionedLegend of Jose GasparSir Francis Drake and privateer Robert SearleFlorida Pirate FestivalsPirates in St. AugustineA history of pirates in FloridaSir Frances Drake in St. Augustine...2024-02-2139 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 140: Explore Cross Creek (A Hidden Campground, Historic Paddle) and What Is Real Florida?Send us your Florida questions!Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings made Cross Creek famous through her writing, and if you want to experience Florida as she did, there's no better place. From free-range venison starters at a Cross Creek restaurant to paddling the same creeks she did, immerse yourself in the world of Cross Creek. Here's how! Spoiler alert: Cathy gives away the ending of The Yearling at the start of the podcast, because she says everyone knows. Rick disagrees, so if you don't know the story, consider yourself warned!Links We...2024-02-1440 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 134: Into the Woods: Swamp Hikes, Snakes, and StoriesSend us your Florida questions!Take a hike in the swamp! Cathy and Rick talk about hiking in Florida swamps, venomous snakes, and other things you might find as you experience Florida's wilderness. Also, Cathy talks about the time she got lost in the swamp and almost stepped on a venomous snake.Pictured is the juvenile cottonmouth from Cathy's hike in Big Cypress. No, it's not a Magic Eye; look closely and you'll see him. Or her. Cathy didn't want to check.Links We MentionedClyde Butcher's swamp walk2024-01-0343 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 131: Once Upon a Time in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Jacki Levine joins Rick and Cathy today to talk about Once Upon a Time in Florida, a gorgeous coffee table book celebrating 50 years of essays about Florida. Jacki edited the book, which includes essays from Stetson Kennedy, Michael Gannon, and Rick Kilby.Links We MentionedOnce Upon a Time in Florida (with discount code XM23) for saleReview of Once Upon a Time in FloridaFind a talk about the book in your neighborhood.Florida books Jacki gifts to p...2023-12-1336 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 129: Tim Dorsey, Serge Storms, and the Florida Book Gift GuideSend us your Florida questions!This week, Florida Spectacular hosts Cathy and Rick celebrate the work of Tim Dorsey. Dorsey created the lovable serial killer Serge Storms, who served vengeance with a side of history... or perhaps history with a side of vengeance. From there, they talk about Florida books for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Links we MentionedFlorida books for every readerTim Dorsey books in orderA History of Florida Through Black Eyes by Marvin DunnWe Come for G...2023-11-2952 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 128: Two Thanksgivings and No Pilgrims: Florida's First ThanksgivingsSend us your Florida questions!If you thought the Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving in the present-day United States in Plymouth, well, you've been lied to. Cathy and Rick talk about the first and second Thanksgivings, both of which happened in Florida, and why the 16th-century French Huguenot Thanksgiving — celebrated in what is now Jacksonville — may be the only of the first three that didn't celebrate the darkest parts of our national origin story. Links We MentionedThe French first Thanksgiving in North AmericaLeMoyne engravings of French first Thank...2023-11-2244 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 126: Beach, Please: Beach Renourishment is Evil, Rick's Imaginary House on the Sand, and Favorite BeachesSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about the evils of beach renourishment — not only why it's a no-win situation, but how great Florida beaches could look without renourishment. It's a controversial take — especially for beach property owners. Links We MentionedFort De SotoCanaveral National SeashoreSt. George Island State ParkAnastasia IslandAnna Maria Island public beachWashington Oaks State ParkArmy Corps will not renourish Pinellas BeachesIndian Shores Tiki Garden Beach...2023-11-0849 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 124: Scares in the Sunshine: Robert the Doll, Ghost Tours, and Haunted FloridaSend us your Florida questions!For the final podcast of October, Rick and Cathy tell ghost stories and a few "wait, was that a ghost?" stories. Join the fun and let yourself get scared (or not so scared!) with the Florida Spectacular podcast this week!Links We MentionedThe Blair Witch ProjectRobert the DollRobert the Doll by David SloanRobert the Doll Key West Ghost Tour of Fort MartelloHernando Historical Museum Ghost TourMay-Stringer House in Brooksville2023-10-2559 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 123: Florida Scary - Real Things To Fear in the Sunshine StateSend us your Florida questions!Forget ghosts and ghouls, this week Rick and Cathy talk about Florida things that should scare you — like baby gators (a protective mom is near), coyotes (hide your cats!), and killer manatee (OK, that one isn't a thing.) They end on a Florida B-movie note (because happy scary season!) and talk about, of course, snakes (they're more scared of you than, but don't push it!).Links We MentionedFrogsSlotherhouseRick's post on Reptile World in St. Cloud Yearling spe...2023-10-1831 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 122: Creature from the Black Lagoon, Mermaids, and Florida SpringsSend us your Florida questions!Quick, name a B-movie made in Florida. Did you say Creature from the Black Lagoon? Cathy and Rick talk about the history of one of Florida's most enduring movies and the areas where Universal filmed it, its little-known connection to Citizen Kane, and why The Little Mermaid and Creature from the Black Lagoon tell essentially the same story.Links We MentionedCreature from the Black LagoonShape of WaterFiji MermaidNingyoThe Legend of Mami Wata2023-10-1144 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 115: Back to School: Florida Schools, Claude Kirk, and Ron DeSantisSend us your Florida questions!Florida education's making national news. This week, Cathy and Rick take a walk down memory lane to their own first days of school. They also talk about Florida school integration — which happened not that long ago — and how that created a ripple effect that still impacts where elementary school students attend school. Finally, they debate the merits of sending a child to a public Florida school knowing the state has revisionist history curriculum mandates. Links we mentionedSchool integration in FloridaFlorida school...2023-08-0240 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 113: Staying Cool in the Florida Summer: Where To Go and What To DoSend us your Florida questions!With unprecedented temps scorching the country, Florida may not seem like the place where you can stay cool in the summertime, but Cathy and Rick share how they stay cool, where they go, and what they do that make summertime in Florida delightful.Links We MentionedNorth FloridaDry Air Caves at Florida Caverns State ParkApalachicola Chocolate & Coffee CompanyUp the Creek Raw BarBoss Oyster — closedKelly Park at Rock SpringsJohn Gorrie Mu...2023-07-1957 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 110: What's on your Florida bookshelf?Send us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick discuss their beloved Florida books — along with some they can do without. No matter what you love to read, there's something on this list for every Florida-phile.Books We SuggestFireworks Every Night by Beth RaymerThe Mango Opera by Tom CorcoranThe Travis McGee Series by John D. MacDonaldTourist Season by Carl HiaasenStormy Weather by Carl HiaasenMostly Dead Things and With Teeth by Kristen ArnettSinkhole, by Da...2023-06-2853 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 109: Just What Is The Florida Spectacular?Send us your Florida questions!After more than 100 episodes, Rick and Cathy talk about what the podcast is — and what it isn't. Links We Think You'll LikeFacebook page for Rick’s booksFlorida nostalgia Facebook pageMore Florida nostalgiaRick’s blogThe Swamp: The Everglades, Florida, and the Politics of Paradise, by Michael GrunwaldImage credit: Rick KilbySupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. 2023-06-2153 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 108: Your Guide to Invasive Creatures of Florida: Pythons, Australian Pines, and Wild HogsSend us your Florida questions!Pythons. Iguanas. Brazilian peppers. Florida's overflowing with tales of exotic invasives threatening paradise. But... not all exotic invasives are created equal. Join Rick and Cathy for a short foray into some of their favorite exotic invasives, which ones they wish would leave the state forever, and which ones are — believe it or not — the tastiest.Meet the python hunters of the 'GladesWatch Guardians of the GladesCurious how python hunting works? The last half of this video has a simulated capture that almost went...2023-06-0734 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 107: How to Do the Florida Keys: Key Deer, Turtles and a Special GuestSend us your Florida questions!This week, Rick and Cathy welcome Elizabeth Herryman Lasley, host of Keys Traveler podcast, as they talk about the things that make the Florida Keys special. (Find the Florida Keys podcast at the official Florida Keys website (they also have a newsletter, just in case you can't get enough of the Florida Keys.)The trio starts the podcast with a pair of key deer wandering past Cathy, and from there they talk about the Turtle Hospital, Hemingway cats, and the best way to get to the Florida Keys.2023-05-3146 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 105: Great Reasons to Visit Lake CountySend us your Florida questions!This week, inspired by Cathy's recent travels to central Florida, Rick and Cathy talk about places they love in Lake County, some of the more surprising aspects of Lake County history, and why, even in the middle of The Villages, you can find hidden scraps of natural Florida. Helpful Links and Links We MentionedVisit Lake County travel websiteAuthentic Florida's Things to Do in ClermontCitrus Tower (also has a Facebook page)Lake Louisa State ParkFerndale2023-05-1140 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 104: Insider Ocala: Glass Bottom Boats, Six-Gun Territory, and Harriet Beecher StoweSend us your Florida questions!Join Cathy and Rick as they venture through Ocala, making virtual stops at their favorite restaurants, natural areas, and roadside attractions. Along the way, discover (or re-discover) a central Florida Elvis movie, learn about the "wild west" in Florida, and find out which one of the podcast hosts is kin to Harriet Beecher Stowe.Links We MentionedAppleton MuseumBarberville ProduceCarney Island Recreation AreaCraig Pittman and Chadd Scott's "Welcome to Florida" podcastFlorida Trust f...2023-05-0344 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 103: Taxidermied Gators, Orange Bird, and Florida KitschSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy welcome Melanie Lentz-Janney, of Authentic Florida fame, to the podcast. They spend the episode talking about some of their favorite Florida kitsch, the difference between Florida collectibles and Disneyana, and their favorite Florida roadside attractions. Links we mentionedAuthentic FloridaPresidents Hall of Fame (Clermont)Sarasota Jungle GardensBoyett's Citrus Attraction (and Authentic Florida's day trip there)Signup link for Authentic Florida newsletter or follow Authentic Florida on FacebookTupperware MuseumF...2023-04-2646 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 101: Crackers, Ca'dZan, and Casitas: Touring Historic Florida HomesSend us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Rick have Florida architecture on their mind. Specifically, different historic homes. From the simple cracker cottages of Florida's first EuroAmericans to the grandeur of Ca'dZan, spend some time taking a virtual road trip across Florida, to the state's most iconic homes. Links we mentionedYbor City CasitasHeritage VillagePioneer VillagesClassic Cracker: Florida's Wood-Frame Vernacular Architecture, by Ronald HaaseCa’ d’ZanVizcayaTrapper NelsonFlagler Museum/ WhitehallMar-a-Lago Kellogg MansionThis...2023-04-1241 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 100: The Insider's Guide to Gulfport, FloridaSend us your Florida questions!In anticipation of the Floridiana Festival on Gulfport, Rick and Cathy talk about Gulfport: What to do, where to eat, and how to enjoy the small city by the sea.Links we mentionedOutsideKayak Clam BayouHike Clam BayouCulture & Live MusicGulfport History Museum Gulfport Arts CenterArt in the YardArtJonesWalking TourBlueberry PatchNorth End Taphouse...2023-04-0530 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 99: Florida's Water PlaygroundsSend us your Florida questions!This week, The Florida Spectacular welcomes CJ Oliverio, who talks about Florida springs, how to enjoy them, and which ones are his favorites. Cathy and Rick also celebrate the 101st episode and talk about why it's ill-advised to scuba dive with gators. CJ Oliverio is the CEO and founder of Play Hard Florida Adventures, a team of tour guides who offer adventures across the state. His business has a mission to support Florida environmental nonprofits. Links we mentionedPlay Hard FloridaWater Sta...2023-03-2934 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 98: Florida Fallacies - Mythbusting FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week Rick and Cathy explore a few "truths" about Florida, from the Seminole Tribe's origins to the real story about Ponce de Leon and the Fountain of Youth. Things we mentionedSeminole Tribe of FloridaFountain of YouthFlorida: The forgotten colonies during the American RevolutionWhat does it mean to be a cracker?Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum.Find Rick on Twitter @OldFLA and online at RickKilby.com.Support the show2023-03-2432 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 97: Explore Winter Park - Casa Feliz, Turkish Food, and Mr. RogersSend us your Florida questions!This week, Rick and Cathy take a trip to Winter Park, talking about their favorite places, things you should do (and eat!) while you're there, and why, despite all the changes, Winter Park's still a special Florida place.Links we mentionedEatBosphorous Turkish FoodAustin's Coffee Stay Alfond InnExperienceCasa FelizHistoryThe Langford HotelEl Cortez Apartments2023-03-1534 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 96: These Are a Few of Our Favorite (Florida) SpringsSend us your Florida questions!This week, Florida adventurer, springs advocate, and all-around good guy Ryan Worthington joins Rick and Cathy once again to talk about Florida's springs. The trio talks about challenges facing Florida Springs, how to enjoy the springs without doing any harm, and, of course, a few of their favorite springs.Find Ryan on Instagram, and check out his podcast, The Florida Madcaps.Links We MentionedThe Florida Springs Council Has Our Love of Springs Become a Fatal Attraction?HB 359B...2023-03-0848 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 95: Angola, Maroons, and Florida's Underground RailroadSend us your Florida questions!The Angola settlement along the Manatee River lasted for roughly 50 years. Uzi Baram, a professor at New College of Florida, speaks about the enslaved people who escaped to Spanish Florida in search of freedom. They settled near the Manatee River. Here's some of what we know of their stories. Want to know more?Visit Reflections of Manatee, Bishop Museum, and watch this video with Uzi.Rick's post, Celebrating Sacred GroundLinks We MentionedLooking for AngolaBack to A...2023-03-0141 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 92: Visit Winter Garden: Bougie and Back to NatureSend us your Florida questions!Cathy and Rick take a road trip to Winter Garden, which has a definite back-to-nature-meets-bougie vibe that only a Florida city can have (and we mean bougie in the best possible way!) Take a listen, then grab your keys and go explore Winter Garden on your own!EatPlant Street Market Food Hall (including Crooked Can Brewery!)Thai BlossomYellow Dog EatsSeeWinter Garden "Marina"Trailer City (next to the "marina")2023-02-0935 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 91: How to do Gainesville - what to do, see and eat!Send us your Florida questions!This week Cathy and Rick take a virtual road trip to Gainesville, talking about their favorite things to do, eat, and see when they're in town. They also delve into the history of Waldo/Archer Road (SR 24) that runs from Yulee to Cedar Key, how to stay in an on-campus hotel at UF, and where you can find an elevator with an honest-to-god elevator operator.Links we mentionedSee & Do: History & NatureHaile Homestead Homes (and its talking walls)Florida...2023-02-0135 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 89: Explore Hidden St. PeteSend us your Florida questions!Downtown St. Pete has exploded with growth, people, and food – but that's not what we're talking about this week. Instead, Rick and Cathy talk about places in St. Pete not in the downtown area that most tourists never see. Take a listen, and get started planning your next road trip to explore Hidden St. Pete!Things to DofreeFall TheatreSunken GardensParrot shows and Bird Shows around Florida.Places to EatMullet's Fish Camp...2023-01-1842 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 87: How to visit the Florida EvergladesSend us your Florida questions!The Everglades is a series of connected ecosystems that runs from right by Sea World's front door south to the Florida Keys. Today, Cathy and Rick talk about some unique Everglades experiences, lodging, and roads. They end with a top five "must do" when you visit Everglades National Park or the surrounding Everglades. Places we mentioned:Rod & Gun ClubEverglades National ParkCamping in Everglades National ParkCamping & Cabins in the Everglades on the Big Cypress Indian ReservationN...2023-01-0536 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 86: Sustainable Florida: New Year's Resolutions for the Sunshine StateSend us your Florida questions!Every year, people make resolutions for the new year. In this episode, Rick and Cathy talk about resolutions for Florida — and how you can help protect the state's natural beauty, waters, and wild places as you travel (and even if you don't!)Links we mentioned:Cathy's quest to remove single-use plastics from her home, RV and officeBlue HighwaysAlachua Conservation TrustPaynes Prairie Preserve State ParkSweetwater Wetlands Park in GainesvilleLyonia Preserve in Volusia County...2022-12-2855 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 85: Florida Bucket List - What's on Yours?Send us your Florida questions!Cathy turned 50 this month, and it made her think about all the things she still wants to do in Florida, so this week she and Rick reviewed some (mostly) South Florida bucket list items. Take a listen, and watch for our Florida panhandle bucket list in 2023!Here's what's on our bucket lists:Rick: Fort Jefferson & Dry TortugasCathy: Coral Spawning in the Florida KeysRick: Airboat ride in the EvergladesCathy: Milky Way in the Everglades and Big Cypress2022-12-2144 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 84: Christmas Celebrations in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Christmas in Florida hits different, but that doesn't mean you can't find a spectacular winter event. Cathy and Rick talk about some only-in-Florida Christmas and holiday experiences.Links we mentionedSnowcat RidgeMargaret TolbertIche Nippy DayNights of LightsAbout Christmas, Florida (an Orange County park)Orlando Wetlands ParkFred the TreeEarnest Saves ChristmasFind Rick on Twitter @OldFLA and online at RickKilby.com.Support the...2022-12-1452 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 83: Explore Florida CavesSend us your Florida questions!Did you know Florida has dry air caves you can explore, even if you don't have any experience spelunking? This week, Rick and Cathy explore Florida caves – virtually, of course. They also talk about underwater caves, and while they both strongly advise against attempting to explore underwater caves, the show notes contain a link to a great video, Water's Journey.Florida Caverns State ParkOcala CavernsSharkansas Women's Prison MassacreWater's Journey with Wes SkilesDevil's DenBlue Grotto...2022-12-0846 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 82: Vintage & Iconic Central Florida RestaurantsSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about iconic Florida restaurants, past and present, and others that are just plain fun. This episode focuses mostly on Central Florida and the Tampa Bay area, but look for a future episode about the best restaurants in South Florida, the panhandle, the Keys, and other parts of the Sunshine State!Links we mentionedBubble RoomSci-Fi Dine In Theater RestaurantBoathouse at Disney SpringsJock Lindsey's Hangar Bar at Disney Springs94th Aero Squadron...2022-11-3052 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 81: Florida - Find Your BeachSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy Salustri and Rick Kilby talk about their favorite beaches (and why they love them) and what makes Florida beaches unique.Among their favorite beaches mentioned were:Little Talbot Island State ParkEgmont Key State ParkFort De Soto ParkSt. George IslandHave a favorite Florida beach? Let 'em know!Also mentioned were:Old Florida Facebook groupSandbar on Anna Maria IslandWhite Gate CourtLong Key...2022-11-231h 03Florida SpectacularEpisode 80: Why You Should Celebrate Thanksgiving in St. AugustineSend us your Florida questions!We welcome Rick Kilby as The Florida Spectacular's new co-host, and he and Cathy talk about the first two Thanksgivings celebrated in North America, which – spoiler alert – both happened in Florida. Learn the short history of the French Huguenot Floridians who celebrated the first Thanksgiving on North American soil – in 1564. The second Thanksgiving, celebrated by the Spanish in 1565, takes us to St. Augustine, where there's plenty to discover outside the Spanish Quarter.Links we mentioned:Lincolnville MuseumFort MoseLightn...2022-11-1648 min
Florida SpectacularSpecial Episode: "Sinkhole", Gen X in Florida, and Davida BreierSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy sits down with Davida Breier and talks about her novel, "Sinkhole," growing up as a GenX in Florida, and how she came to write this particular delicious book.Davida Breier's Fun StuffReader's Guide for Sinkholereaders-guide.pdfWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. Have a Florida question or comment? Love the show? Hate it? Let us know – email us at cathy@floridspectacular.com. Support the show2022-10-1227 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 79: Yes, Our Seasons Change, Part I: Fall in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Welcome to fall in Florida! Cathy and Jon talk about how real Floridians know fall has arrived, the best reason to travel to the Keys in September, and what the season looks like in different parts of the state.Links we mentionedOn This Day: 1933 gas prices in Key West Hidden Gem: King Seafood, MarathonHolderness Family's Fall Expectations vs. RealtyWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. ...2022-09-2235 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 78: Wrong Florida History (Rumors, Urban Legends, and Fake Pirates)Send us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon debunk famous Florida history myths, stepping on all the cherished legends they learned in grade school. Some myths we discussedFountain of YouthGasparilla MythFirst ThanksgivingHistory that isn't fakeDiscover Florida Tours – (Sacred Lands)The Seminole Tribe of Florida's originWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. Follow Jon's road trip adventures at D...2022-09-1445 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 77: Save Florida - Don't Recycle and Ditch Single-Use PlasticsSend us your Florida questions!In January, Cathy decided she'd get rid of single-use plastic in her home, RV, and at the newspaper she and her husband own – all by Dec. 31. Her travels through the best parts of Florida motivated this decision, because everywhere she went, she saw plastic litter. She and Jon talk about the Florida road trip that cemented that decision, what she's doing to make earth-conscious swaps, and why she doesn't recycle. They also talk about which Florida beach town is fireworks-safe for people with PTSD, dogs, and wildlife, why Jon's seventh-grader has...2022-09-0752 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 76: You Have to Go North to Get South - Florida's PanhandleSend us your Florida questions!Today Jon and Cathy talk about hurricanes in the panhandle, UFOs in the Florida panhandle, and hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail through Eglin Air Force Base.Hiking through EglinCarnivorous pitcher plants at Apalachicola National ForestWewahitchkaUlee's GoldDeFuniak SpringsWewa RV ParkWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. Follow Jon's road trip adventures at Don't Make Me Turn This Van Around. ...2022-08-3145 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 75: Lake Louisa, Clermont, and a Presidents Hall of FameSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy and Jon talk about the Clermont area of Florida, including Lake Louisa State Park, Citrus Tower, and a few other places of note in the area, including the Presidents Hall of Fame.Links we mentionedLake Louisa State ParkCitrus TowerPresidents Hall of Fame at Atlas Obscura or on Facebook, or on Florida TravelerClermont Brewing CompanyWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. 2022-08-2441 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 74: Our favorite beachesSend us your Florida questions!In this episode of The Florida Spectacular, Jon and Cathy talk about the best beaches in Florida (well, some of them), beach renourishment, and each of their favorite beaches. They also mention a secret sidewalk in Pass-a-Grille, Mike Huckabee, and the not-so-great history on Egmont Key (that not that many people know.)Fort De Soto Park Caladesi Island State ParkThe concentration camp on Egmont Key American BeachMike Huckabee and beach renourishmentWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Sp...2022-08-1736 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 73: Tevas, Travel and FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon talk about a pair of water shoes Cathy's worn for 21 years as she paddled, snorkeled, waded, swam, and hiked through Florida. (Her Teva protons have seen more of Florida than most Floridians.) They also talk about other essential Florida gear, places they use them, and read a letter from a fan.Links we mentionGator "harassing" paddler at Silver SpringsCathy's post about her Teva ProtonsWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep...2022-08-1040 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 72: Cedar Key, Rosewood, and Florida's Headless HorsemanSend us your Florida questions!This week, The Florida Spectacular takes you to Cedar Key, a tiny island along Florida's Nature Coast. Jon and Cathy talk about the island's award-winning clam chowder, the tragic history of nearby Rosewood, and the legendary headless horseman of neighboring Seahorse Key. Links we mentionedCedar Key EventsCedar Key Seafood FestivalTony's Clam Chowder (Hey, it beats New England chowder at contests – and he also has a restaurant on Cedar Key)The only motel on Cedar Key, the Cedar Inn2022-08-0340 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 71: Gone Coastal (Florida Coasts All Have Names, and It's Weird)Send us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon take a meandering look at what Florida's tourism board call each section of coastline. Some of the names make sense, others are a little weird, but at the end of the podcast, we'd all learned something.Links we mentioned:• (Warning: Wikipedia link ahead, but these are largely accurate) List of what people call different parts of the Florida coastline • The oldest operating hotel in Florida, nestled on the beaches of the no-longer-called-this Surf Coast.• A road Jon thinks is the pre...2022-07-2757 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 70: Florida Springs with Rick Kilby (and Bottled Water Still Sucks)Send us your Florida questions!This week, hosts Cathy Salustri and Jon Kile welcome back celebrated Florida springs expert and author Rick Kilby. Rick, Orlando-based author ad graphic designer, wrote Florida's Healing Waters: Gilded Age Mineral Springs, Seaside Resorts, and Health Spas, which received the silver medal for Florida nonfiction from the Florida Book Awards and the Florida Historical Society’s Stetson Kennedy Award. Check out his website at rickkilby.comAlligator attack in springs"Pipeline" to the Aquifer"Mirage" by Cynthia BarnettWant more Florida? Subscribe to...2022-07-2044 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 69: Summertime in Florida (Embrace the Heat)Send us your Florida questions!This week hosts Jon Kile and Cathy Salustri talk about their favorite summer experiences – and how they don't "beat" the Florida heat, but instead embrace it. Love Florida but don't love the heat? This is the podcast for you. Links we mentioned: UtilikiltReef-safe sunscreenWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. Follow Jon's road trip adventures at Don't Make Me Turn This Van Around. Have a Florida question or com...2022-07-1355 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 68: Florida Springs and Why Bottled Water is the DevilSend us your Florida questions!Today hosts Cathy Salustri and Jon Kile talk about the magic of Florida springs, their favorite springs, and why bottled water is, indeed, the Devil. With almost 1000 springs in Florida, they didn't talk about them all, but today's episode is a great start.Links we mentionedNestle protests about pumping water out of the Santa Fe RiverTampa Bay Times editorial on savin Florida springsBlue Springs State ParkSeven Sisters SpringsThree SistersCave diving...2022-07-0743 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 67: St. Augustine, Flager Beach, and Florida Camping in a (Smaller) RVSend us your Florida questions!This week on The Florida Spectacular, hosts Cathy Salustri and Jon Kile talk about northeast Florida, including St. Augustine's African American Trail, Lincolnville, Gamble Rogers State Recreation Area (and great oceanside campground) in Flagler Beach, Anastasia State Park, Faver-Dykes State Park, Washington Oaks Gardens, and the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Have a Florida travel question or want to know more about something we mentioned? Drop us a line.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.F...2022-06-2249 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 62: SupermarketsSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy and Jon talk about Florida supermarkets, grocery stores, which – shocker – include more than simply Publix. Join them on the podcast that went a little sideways and veered into the history of Winn-Dixie, Hitchcocks, and the Aldi Aisle of Shame. Links we mentioned:History of Winn DixieHistory of Hitchcock's (and a link we found after the show)Dowling Park, FloridaAldi Quarter Keepers, Aisle of Shame, and Facebook groupWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsl...2022-05-1042 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 61: Amelia Island and Fernandina BeachSend us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon talk about Florida's "Southern" beach: Amelia Island. They also talk about the history and beauty of Fort Clinch, the War of Jenkins Ear, and why you should stop for boiled peanuts on every road trip.Amelia IslandFernandina BeachMore about the War of Jenkins Ear and Cathy's (notably less academic) article about the War of Jenkin's Ear.Fort Clinch State ParkAmelia Island Museum of HistoryFort Clinch history author Frank A. Ofeldt III...2022-05-0339 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 60: Everglades CitySend us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon talk about Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and the Tamiami Trail. They also help out a listener looking for travel advice crossing the state from Englewood to the Hard Rock in Hollywood. Send us your Florida road trip questions.Links we mentioned:Forrey GrillLake Okeechobee Scenic TrailCamping at Lake Okeechobee (Okeechobee County and Army Corps of Engineers)Everglades CityRod & Gun ClubLucky Cole photography and Lucky Cole's on Loop Road.2022-04-2636 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 59: Tampa journalismSend us your Florida questions!This week, Cathy and Jon talk to Ben Montgomery about Axios Local, journalism, and why the City of Tampa should set aside one day a year where it's legal to camp in any of its parks. It's kind of a wild podcast, so buckle up and tune in.Ben Montgomery is a journalist and author of four nonfiction books, and he writes a local newsletter for Axios. Twitter: @gangrey.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.2022-04-1940 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 58: Florida's Adventure Coast (Brooksville and Weeki Wachee)Send us your Florida questions!This week, your hosts Cathy Salustri and Jon Kile talk to John Athanason, who spent almost two decades doing marketing for the world's most famous mermaids – the Weeki Wachee mermaids! Last year, he started working with Florida's Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau, and he joins the podcast ready to talk about the best places along Florida's Adventure Coast (think Brooksville and Weeki Wachee) – including some you've probably never hear of, much less visited.Links we mentioned:Tourism websiteChinsegutDowntown BrooksvilleWithlacoochee State Fore...2022-04-1241 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 57: DeSantis vs. DisneySend us your Florida questions!This week, "The Florida Spectacular" hosts Cathy Salustri and Jon Kile talk about Disney, Reedy Creek, and Ron DeSantis – as well as the PeopleMover, Disney prices, and why there are no mosquitoes at Walt Disney World.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.Support the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at...2022-04-0551 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 56: Literary St. PetersburgSend us your Florida questions!This week :The Florida Spectacular" welcomes a new co-host, Jon Kile. Jon's a Florida-based writer who loves Worldle but hates Wordle, loves to camp with his family in and out of the state, and posts tales of his adventures at dontmakemeturnthisvanaround.com. Cathy and Jon talk with Maureen McDole about the upcoming SunLit literary festival (produced by Keep St. Pete Lit) the antiquarian book fair, and the St. Petersburg area's cultural and fishing mashup.Links we mentioned:SunLit Festival (April 1-3, 2022)SunLit on Facebook2022-03-2944 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 55: Florida Keys HistorySend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Florida Keys historian Brad Bertelli. Brad's penned several books about Florida and the Florida Keys, most recently the (mostly) fictionalized "The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files." Cathy and Brad talk about Brad's new (and wildly popular) Facebook group, Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, keys people have never heard of, and how Dildo Key got its name.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.Support the showQuestion...2022-03-1534 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 54: Cuban immigrants to Florida before MarielSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes David Powell, author of "Ninety Miles and a Lifetime Away: Memories of Early Cuban Exiles."David worked as a reporter for 10 years in New York, Miami, and Tallahassee, and then practiced law for 30 years. He and Cathy talk about the first two waves of Cuban immigrants, how they impacted Florida, and the stories of Cuban who came to Florida in the first years after Castro came to power in Cuba. Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up w...2022-03-0130 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 53: Skunk Ape researcher David Shealy and author Brad BertelliSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy Salustri chats with David Shealy, the mastermind behind the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee, and noted Skunk Ape author Brad Bertelli. Follow Brad on Twitter, or join his Florida Keys history Facebook group, and pick up a copy of his book, "The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files". After you're done, you may want to follow the Southernmost Skunk Ape Society on Twitter, too.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.Support the show2022-02-2133 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 52: Walt Disney WorldSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Stephanie Shuster, CEO and owner of "WDW Magazine." Stephanie and Cathy talk about a different part of Florida: the Walt Disney World Resort. They chat, of course, about Disney and why they both enjoy it, but also about the landscaping, natural plants, and acres of preserved land on the Walt Disney World Resort property. More about Stephanie:As CEO and Owner of WDW Magazine, Stephanie Shuster leads a team that connects thousands of Disney fans to the Most Magical Place on Earth f...2022-02-1526 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 51: Foodie FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular talks to food historian Andy Huse. Cathy and Andy talk about Florida restaurants, Florida cocktails, and Florida desserts.Huse, who's written three books with the University Press of Florida, lives in Tampa. He's the archivist and special collections librarian at the University of South Florida, but his fascination is Florida: writing, speaking, and cooking Florida. He's written a history of the Columbia Restaurant and a "thirsty" history of Tampa. His latest book (with coauthors Barbara Cruz and Jeff Houck) is called "The Cuban Sandwich: A...2022-02-0848 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 50: Birding the EvergladesSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Susan Rogers, author of the forthcoming book "Learning the Birds", available in April from Cornell Press. Susan talks with Cathy about her birding trip to the Everglades, the time she (sort of) found a dead body, and why birding is dangerous. Cathy and Susan also talk about the most dangerous animal in Florida (it's not what you think), why osprey are superior to bald eagle, and whether or not Marjorie Stoneman Douglas is overrated. If you want to order Susan's book, you can use c...2022-02-0140 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 49: Vintage St. PeteSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes back Bill DeYoung, author of many books, most recently "Vintage St. Pete Volume II: Legends, Locations, Lifestyles." Even people who don't live in St. Pete will appreciate this picturesque history of the area, told through some of the city's more interesting people and places throughout history. In this week's Florida Spectacular, Bill and Cathy talk about the St. Pete beach iconic Beach Theatre, John Candy and Summer Rental, artist George Snow Hill and how his WPA-era painting helped radicalize a young man fighting for e...2022-01-2532 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 48: St. Petersburg PoliticsSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular talks with Ben Kirby, who worked alongside St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman as the Communications Director for Kriseman's two-term tenure, which ended earlier this year. Cathy and Ben talk about Kriseman's famous "no Trumps allowed" tweet, the challenges facing a Florida community recovering from a Jim Crow South, and the way Florida government – St. Petersburg in particular – allows people accessibility to their government.More about Ben: Benjamin J. Kirby is a communications professional with 30 years in politics, federal and local government, the nonprofit sector, and advo...2022-01-1840 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 47: Tampa Skyway bridge disasterSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Bill DeYoung, a St. Petersburg native, veteran journalist, and author of "Skyway: The True Story of Tampa Bay's Signature Bridge and the Man Who Brought it Down." Bill and Cathy talk about the Skyway Bridge disaster of 1980, the (untrue and harmful) rumors about Captain Lerro's role in the disaster and, most notably, his play, "Mayday: Captain Lerro and the Skyway Bridge", which opens in St. Petersburg Feb. 10More about Bill:In addition to "Skyway: The True Story of Tampa Bay’s Signature Br...2022-01-1142 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 45: The Legend of the Barefoot MailmanSend us your Florida questions!This week, The Florida Spectacular welcomes John Fleming, author of "The Legend of the Barefoot Mailman." Host Cathy Salustri and John talk about the actual Barefoot Mailman, his book about what may have happened to Ed Hamilton, and why Cathy thinks his next book about the Lewis & Clark expedition should talk about Florida.John's a creative writing professor at the University of South Florida, the founder of Saw Palm: Florida Literature and Art magazine, and the author of "Fearsome Creatures of Florida", "Songs for the Deaf", and "The...2021-12-1430 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 44: Horsing around in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week Cathy Salustri welcomes Dr. Saundra TenBroeck, an associate professor and state extension horse specialist for the University of Florida's Extension Service, to The Florida Spectacular. Dr. TenBroeck works with kids and adults... and horses. They chat about Florida's horse industry, which has an annual $6.8 billion economic impact on Florida. They also talk about Florida research on horse health and performance. More information about:UF Equine ProgramAmerican Horse CouncilThe US economic impact study about horsesFlorida Horse...2021-11-3033 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 43: Journalism in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular chats with John Pendygraft, a longtime journalist with a forthcoming book, "Lost Storytellers: The Information Apocalypse in the Modern Newsroom." John and Cathy talk about journalism, and its future in Florida. Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com.Support the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels a...2021-11-1235 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 42: Fearsome Creatures of Florida!Send us your Florida questions!This week, The Florida Spectacular welcomes John Fleming, author of "Fearsome Creatures of Florida." Host Cathy Salustri and John talk about the Skunk Ape, were-panthers and a host of other fearsome creatures of Florida – some real, some maybe not so real. John's a creative writing professor at the University of South Florida, the founder of Saw Palm: Florida Literature and Art magazine, and the author of "The Legend of the Barefoot Mailman", "Songs for the Deaf", and "The Book I Will Write."Like what you heard? Ch...2021-11-0334 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 41: Florida Books and Tampa Bay Times Festival of ReadingSend us your Florida questions!Today host Cathy Salustri welcomes Colette Bancroft, book editor for the Tampa Bay Times. Listen in as they talk about the Tampa Bay Times annual Festival of Reading (the Festival takes place over seven days this year, via Zoom, Nov. 8-14), why Florida has so many writers, and which book in this year's lineup will make you remove your mindfulness app from your phone. About Colette: Colette Bancroft grew up in Tampa and has been the book editor of the Tampa Bay Times for 15 years. She edited the anthology Tampa B...2021-10-2540 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 39: Flamingo Magazine Founder and Publisher Jamie RichSend us your Florida questions!This week the Florida Spectacular welcomes back Jamie Rich, founder and publisher of Flamingo Magazine. With the new issue just days away from subscribers' mailboxes, Cathy and Jamie talk about what to expect under the cover, the Fresh Squeezed newsletter, why Carlton Ward's work makes the magazine even more amazing, and the upcoming Florida gift guide.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.comSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at ...2021-10-1135 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 37: Weeki Wachee MermaidsSend us your Florida questions!Today The Florida Spectacular welcomes Lu Vickers, author of – among others – "Weeki Wachee, City of Mermaids: A History of One of Florida's Oldest Roadside Attractions." Lu and Florida Spectacular host Cathy Salustri talk about the Weeki Wachee MermaidsNo matter where you are, you can always see Weeki Wachee mermaids on film and in photos at the Florida Memory Project, part of the State Archives of Florida. Looking for more about Weeki Wachee and its legendary mermaids? Zoom on in to see Lu speak at the Orange County Regio...2021-09-2724 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 36: The Belleview InnSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Joey Vars, the historian at the Belleview Inn (formerly Henry Plant’s Belleview Biltmore) as well as the Curator of the Gulfport Historical Society. He’s also a masters student in the USFSP Florida Studies Program. Host Cathy Salustri and Joe talk about the Plant empire, the urban legends about Morton Plant hospital, and whether or not there was an actual moat around the Biltmore. Connect with Joe: @historiclandmark.Want more Florida? Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up wit...2021-09-2023 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 35: Florida Wildlife CorridorSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Alex Freeze, who talks about the Florida Wildlife Corridor. As a sixth-generation Floridian, Alex's passion for the Corridor – and all of wild Florida – comes through in this episode, co-hosted by Cathy Salustri and James Chapin.Connect with Alex – and the Corridor – at the links below.The Last Green Thread filmHidden Wild filmThe Forgotten Coast trailerInstagram and Twitteralexfreeze.comFlorida Wildlife CorridorWant more Florida? Subscribe to The Flor...2021-09-1339 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 33: Naturally Florida podcastSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes Lara Milligan and Shannon Carnevale, and Cathy chats with them about their podcast, Naturally Florida, which delves into natural Florida and the things that live here. They also talk about Cuban tree frogs and other exotic invasives, fireflies (yes, we have them here!) and green anoles (you may call them geckos, but you'd be wrong. Lara's the Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County; she focuses on wildlife, water, and general environmental education. Shannon leads the Natural Resources and Conservation Extension program...2021-08-3045 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 29: All About SeashellsSend us your Florida questions!This week The Florida Spectacular welcomes author Cynthica Barnett to talk about seashells and her new book, The Sound of the Sea: Seashells and the Fate of the Oceans. Cynthia and host Cathy Salustri talk about sushi, scallops, and whether or not it's OK to collect seashells (yes, as long as they're not alive and please don't take them all!) Connect with Cynthia on Twitter or her website.More about Cynthia Barnett: She's an environmental journalist who has reported on water and climate change around the world, and...2021-08-0242 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 17: Florida's Healing Waters with Rick KilbySend us your Florida questions!In this episode, the Florida Spectacular welcomes Rick Kilby, Florida author. Orlando-based writer and graphic designer Rick Kilby is the author of Florida’s Healing Waters: Gilded Age Mineral Springs, Seaside Resorts, and Health Spas, which received the silver medal for Florida nonfiction from the Florida Book Awards and the Florida Historical Society’s Stetson Kennedy Award. His first book, Finding the Fountain of Youth: Ponce de León and Florida's Magical Waters, won a Florida Book Award in the Visual Arts category. Rick's Old Florida Blog: http://studioh...2021-05-0350 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 1: Author Craig PittmanSend us your Florida questions!Florida author Craig Pittman joins Cathy to talk about his unique view on what makes Florida special. Find out what Hog and Hominy Road, a phoenix, and Cobragator have to do with making Florida spectacular.Links we mentioned:Craig's newsletter."Welcome to Florida" podcast.The Florida PhoenixCraig's books:Cat TaleOh, Florida!The Scent of ScandalPaving ParadiseManatee InsanityRead about Cathy's first book, Backroads...2020-12-0833 minFlorida SpectacularPreview: Florida SpectacularSend us your Florida questions!Florida author Cathy Salustri introduces you to the "Florida Spectacular" podcast.Find Cathy on line at: http://greatfloridaroadtrip.com/.Support the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, and keep up with Cathy's travels at greatfloridaroadtrip.com. Keep up with Rick at studiohourglass.blogspot.com and get his books at rickkilby.com. Find Cathy on social media: Facebook.com/SalustriCathy and everywhere else as @CathySalustri; connect with...2020-12-0204 min