Shows
Florida SpectacularEpisode 225: Florida Springs Heritage Area, Reverse Springs, and What You Can DoSend us your Florida questions!Haley Moody, the director of the Florida Springs Institute, joins the podcast to talk about the idea of creating a National Springs Heritage Area in Florida.About HaleyHaley’s passion for the springs began during her first visit to the Ichetucknee River. Her love of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) was born during her time at the University of Florida, where she graduated with honors in Landscape Architecture. After a GIS Internship at the Florida Springs Institute, she transitioned into managing FSI’s outreach efforts and now...
2025-10-0842 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 222: Things To Do in St. Augustine, and Should You Move to Florida?Send us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about Rick's trip to St. Augustine, then answer a letter from a listener about whether or not moving to Florida is a good idea. Things To Do in St. AugustineSt. Augustine's Fountain of Youth (visit with a critical eye!)The San Marco shops in St. Augustine, including Duddington'sColumbia Restaurant in the St. Augustine Historic District Don't forget to check out Spinster Abbott's. Support the showQuestion or comment? Emai...
2025-09-1751 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 219: Alligators: Florida's Swamp PuppiesSend us your Florida questions!Mark Barrow grew up around gators — both the real one and a certain Florida college that pays homage to them. Now, he's written a book about alligators, and he joins Rick and Cathy to talk about why alligators deserve respect, not fear. The trio also talks about the gator's place in Florida's culture, roadside Florida gator attractions, and why gators are amazing creatures.Links We MentionedMini-Lights and Black children used as gator bait?Mini Lights proof of concept trailer from Vitale BrothersN...
2025-08-2757 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 214: The Ocklawaha, Bass Fishing, and Hope for a Florida RiverSend us your Florida questions!The Ocklawaha River in Central Florida has been dammed for decades. Now, there's a chance to tear down the dam and reunite the rivers. That's good news for bass, anglers, environmentalists, and the local economy. Margaret Spontak comes on the podcast to talk about why, and she encourages people to call their state legislators and ask them to support restoration of the Ocklawaha and reuniting the rivers. Links We MentionedInteractive map of the OcklawahaReunite the Rivers and the Rodman Dam
2025-07-2344 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 210: Insider's Guide to Palatka, the Great Fire, and Even Better BeerSend us your Florida questions!Andrea Conover of Azalea City Brewing and Palatka Mayor Robbie Correa join us this week to help roadtrippers find Palatka's best-kept secrets.Links We MentionedPalatka Coffee CompanyAngel's DinerPalatka's historic riverfrontVelchoff's CornerRavine Gardens State ParkMagnolia CafeAzalea City BrewingLemon Street MarketKayak tours North Star Charters Amara Zee Bronson Mulholland House (and Rick's post about it — and this one)
2025-06-2538 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 206: St. Augustine's More Recent History, Why All Old Buildings Are Not Historic, and St. Augustine's Black HistorySend us your Florida questions!Historian Holly Baker joins the podcast to talk about her work in preservation in St. Augustine, Vero Beach, and throughout Florida. The trio also talks about what makes a building historic, preserving historic evidence of Jim Crow, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Links We MentionedSt. AugustineDavis ShoresBridge of LionsDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in St. AugustineLincolnville MuseumWhere is Lincolnville?Cathy's article about Lincolnville Rick's post a...
2025-05-2834 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 204: Walt Disney Didn't Buy Land in Secret, and Other Disney MythsSend us your Florida questions!How Bowers of the Retro WDW podcast joins Rick and Cathy to talk about the not-so-secret-after-all Florida Project, the origins of Disney Springs, and what Cypress Gardens had to do with Walt Disney deciding Florida would be a great place for a theme park. Links We MentionedRetro WDWLake Buena Vista Historical SocietySupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Florida Spectacular newsletter, a...
2025-05-1450 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 203: Ocala Caverns, Colonial Mall, and Joffrey's CoffeeSend us your Florida questions!Orlando historian Rachel Williams joins the podcast to talk about Colonial Plaza Mall (now a shadow of its former self and called Colonial Marketplace), and from there the conversation moves to caves in Ocala, coffee roasters we love, and the importance of the shopping mall in Florida culture. Links We MentionedOcala Caverns (and what's the difference between a cave and a cavern, anyway?)Rachel's article about Colonial PlazaFlorida Historical Society conference in Orlando (May 15-17 in Orlando)Remembering R...
2025-05-0758 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 201: St. Johns River: Baby Birds, Tiny Gators, and Goat IslandSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about the middle basin of the St. Johns River, eco tours, and wildlife seen along the waterway. Links We MentionedFloridiana Festival at the MathesonSquarehouse PizzaLove Vine?Welaka FloridaLake JesupSt. Johns River infoAirboat on the St. JohnsAirboat chase sequence in Gone Fishin'"36 Hours in Orlando" (New York Times)Bill Belleville's River of LakesFlorida's American Heritage Riv...
2025-04-2342 min
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 Gardens
2025-03-0542 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 189: Insiders Guide to Ormond BeachSend us your Florida questions!Looking for things to do that most people miss in Ormond Beach? Historian Randy Jaye has a lot for you to explore.Links We MentionedTomoka Mound ComplexLegend of Tomokie (and that ridiculous statue Rick loves)Old Kings RoadThree ChimneysDummett PlantationThe Loop Scenic DriveMcRae Plantation and Addison BlockhouseThe Ormond HotelFortunato ParkBirthplace of SpeedAnderson-Price Memorial Building...
2025-01-2948 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 185: Florida Bucket List, a Kayak Tour, and Florida Plans for the New YearSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about Florida adventures for the new year and talk about kayaking. They also look ahead to 2025 and some possible new benefits for podcast subscribers. Links We MentionedEarth Kinship bioluminescence kayak toursFlorida State Parks camping reservationsHarvest HostsFlorida Bucket List scratch-off adventures Keaton BeachSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Su...
2024-12-2850 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 182: Springs, Florida Studies, and Water PoliticsSend us your Florida questions!Chris Meindl, associate professor or geography and the director of the Florida Studies Program at USF-St. Pete, joins the podcast to talk about his new book, Florida Springs: From Geography to Politics and Restoration. Cathy, Rick, and Chris talk about the springs, the Florida Studies Program, and the politics of water.Go see him at the Sulfur Springs Museum in Tampa: Jan. 12, 2 p.m.Links We MentionedFlorida Geological Survey: Florida SpringsWater's Journey: The River ReturnsFenholloway River
2024-12-0445 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 180: Cryptids, Crazy, Florida!, and Skunk Ape GenitaliaSend us your Florida questions!Chris Beachum and Rich Robinson created a TV series, Crazy, Florida! — and the first episode is live now. Rich and Chris join Rick and Cathy to talk about the inspiration for Crazy, Florida!, what makes it special, and what's next for the docuseries.Links We MentionedCrazy, Florida! S1E1 on YouTubeCrazy, Florida! YouTube ChannelFast Channels include RokuTV, Pluto, and RVTV.Animals once thought to be cryptidsSupport the showQu...
2024-11-2041 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 179: How To Do Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs RunSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about what to do at Wekiwa Springs, along the Wekiva River, at Rock Springs Run, and the surrounding waterways.Links We MentionedWekiwa Springs State ParkWekiva IslandWekiva River: a Wild & Scenic RiverFriends of Wekiva RiverLower Wekiva River Preserve State ParkEmerald CutRock Springs RunKelly Park/Rock Springs RunKatie's LandingKing's LandingSeminole State Forest
2024-11-1328 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 178: DeLeon Springs: Reclaiming Enslaved People's History, Waterskiing Elephants, and PancakesSend us your Florida questions!This week, Florida Spectacular takes a deep dive into DeLeon Springs. Rick and Cathy talk about the first people who lived in the area, EuroAmerican settlers, and the history of the sugar mill and plantation that formed around the spring. They end the podcast talking about the more "roadside Florida" aspects of the spring, including, of course, waterskiing elephants and make-your-own pancakes.Links We MentionedDe Leon Springs State ParkOld Florida's Finest: DeLeon SpringsA deeper dive into the spring
2024-11-0834 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 174: Milton, Helene, and Florida HurricanesSend us your Florida questions!In the path of Hurricane Milton, Rick and Cathy talk about the history of hurricanes, what Milton could mean for Florida — and Gulfport, and the value of the National Hurricane Center.Links We MentionedNew experimental coneSupport 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 hi...
2024-10-0854 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 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 Art
2024-09-2542 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 166: Tin Can Tourists, Lance Campers, and Florida State ParksSend us your Florida questions!Campers, listen up! From Tin Can Tourist to air conditioned cabins, Florida's a camper's paradise. Rick and Cathy talk about the origins of Tin Can tourists in Tampa, which state parks have the best camping, and how to camp in comfort at them.Links We MentionedLance Campers (2565)Lazy Days RVsDesoto Park in Tampa Tin Can Tourist websitesBriny BreezesIn Her ShoesPhoto by Britt Fuller/public domain
2024-08-1435 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 164: Dive bars, Lucky Cole, and Mullet TossesSend us your Florida questions!Who loves a good dive bar? Rick and Cathy do. This week they chat about their favorites — send them yours!Whiskey Lou's in Orlando's Milk DistrictThe Emerald in downtown St. PeteTony's Liquors in Winter GardenWally's on Mill in OrlandoJoannie's Blue Crab in OchopeeLast Chance Saloon in Florida CityMahuffer's on Indian ShoresThe Palace Saloon in FernandinaFlora-Bama BarBurton's in Thornton ParkLinks We...
2024-07-3137 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 Village
2024-07-2436 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 161: Democracy in Florida, Reconstruction, and GainesvilleSend us your Florida questions!Willett Hancock Museum Assistant at the Matheson Museum joins the podcast to talk about a new exhibit at the Matheson Museum in Gainseville: Voices and Votes. Rick, Cathy, and Willett talk about democracy in Florida, and the historical struggle to make sure everyone can participate in it.Links We MentionedVoices and Votes (and other exhibits) at the Matheson MuseumOcoee MassacreRosewood MassacrePork Chop GangWilliam A. ShandsSatchel's PizzaThe Top
2024-07-1029 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 159: The Best Bike Trails in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!This week Rick and Cathy talk about some of their favorite bike trails in Florida. Orange County Bike TrailsWest Orange TrailBikes and Blades at Killarney StationNortheast Orlando Trail MapCady Way TrailPost: Biking the Orlando Urban TrailPost: West Orange TrailOakland Nature PreserveDowntown Winter GardenPlant Street MarketHunger Street TacosPinellas TrailPinellas Trail Guide
2024-06-2636 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 151: The Belleview Biltmore: Schrödinger's HotelSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy welcome Florida historian Joey Vars on the podcast to talk about Henry Plant's Belleview Biltmore hotel. Joey's the former staff historian for the hotel, now called the Belleview. Links We MentionedThe Belleview InnWatch Joey's former tour of the BiltmoreAerial view of Belleview Biltmore demolition [VIDEO]Lost: Belleview Biltmore hotelBuy a piece of the Belleview Biltmore at Schiller's SalvageGiant Steps: The History of Morton F. Plant HospitalC...
2024-05-0146 minFlorida 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 148: Florida New Deal Art, Post Offices, and State ParksSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy welcome Keri Watson, author of Florida's New Deal: Parks and Post Office Murals. Her book takes people on an armchair tour of Florida post offices with New Deal art. It explores Florida's first 10 state park (nine of which still exist as state parks today.)Links We MentionedGet Keri's bookLiving New DealDiane Craig's thesis on George Snow-HillUSPS MuralsImage: Progress of Industry (1934) by Charles W. Ward, at the Clarkson S. Fisher Federal...
2024-04-1053 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 147: Let's Get Small: Check Out These Small Florida TownsSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about what there is to do at some of their favorite small towns in Florida, and why you should visit. Take a listen, load up the car, and let's go!Links We Mentioned Safety Harbor Resort & Spa | Spa Resort in Tampa Bay, FL Welaka, Florida | Quiet Old Town on the St. Johns River Stegbone's Fish Camp and ResortGreen Cove SpringsMatlachaGulfportSupport the show
2024-04-0635 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 146: Matlacha, Pine Island, and a Different Kind of ParadiseSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about mangos, Matlacha, and a different type of Florida paradise. Pine Island and Matlacha don't have high rises, chain hotels, or franchises. This small island haven has plenty of small pleasures on offer, especially for people seeking a less-traditional type of paradise.Things To Do in MatlachaThe Perfect CupTarpon Lodge (lodging and dining alike)Randell Research CenterLeoma Lovegrove galleriesBokeelia Art GalleryMangoMania...
2024-03-2749 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 137: Hidden Sarasota, Things to Do You Might Not Know AboutSend us your Florida questions!If you want to explore Sarasota, Rick and Cathy have plenty of favorites. Places to EatOwen's Fish CampYoder's of Pinecraft and The Gabber Newspaper's feature on Yoder'sBali Hut Tiki HutOutdoors and Nature ExperiencesMyakka River State ParkWarm Mineral SpringsSelby Botanical GardensMote Marine Aquarium (kayaking and the February Farm to Fillet)Venice Beach and Shark's TeethRoadside Attraction: S...
2024-01-2438 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 136: Where to See Manatee in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!It's January! It's cold! It's the best time to see manatee! Where can you see them? Rick and Cathy name their favorite spots (see the links) and talk about whether manatee resemble sea potatoes or zaftig mermaids, manatee flatulence, and manatee nipples (when an animal has armpit nipples, you have to mention it.)Links We MentionedIs it a manatee or a mermaid? How smart are manatee?The year almost 800 manatee diedPanther attacks?Where to...
2024-01-1738 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 135: Florida Trails: Hiking Shoes, Stepping on Snakes, and SloughsSend us your Florida questions!A reader question about hiking shoes leads to a discussion about best places to hike in Florida. The Florida Madcaps' Chelsea Stevens joins to talk about hiking and water shoes, that time she stepped on a copperhead, and her favorite hikes. Links We MentionedFloridaHikes.comShoes for Hiking Florida TrailsAltra shoesWhat are shoe gaiters and do you want them?Fit2RunTrack ShackAstral hiking shoesHikes in Central F...
2024-01-1038 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 walk
2024-01-0343 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 133: Mermaids, Manatee, and Many, Many Paddling TripsSend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about Florida places they want to visit in 2024. Unsurprisingly, many of the trips involve kayaking.Quick Travel Guide to St. AugustineMeehan's Irish Pub Osteen'sCasa de SueñosQuick Travel Guide to West Volusia Heritage CorridorCassadagaDeLand Memorial Hospital MuseumMain Street DeLandHontoon IslandThe Forgotten Mermaids: Jacques Quick Guide to Paddling Ocala National ForestJuniper RunJuniper Springs (Campsite info)Salt Sp...
2023-12-2742 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 132: Sanford, Arcadia, and the Disney Wilderness Preserve: Florida Places to Visit in 2024Send us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about places they want to visit–or revisit—in 2024. Below, find guides to two not-often-visited places in Florida. Visit SanfordVisitor's GuideDecember's St. Lucia FestivalCelery Soup—a folk life playHollerbach's German RestaurantPico Hotel (similar to the Tampa Bay Hotel, now University of Tampa)Henry's DepotFolk Artist Alyne Harris at Jeanine Taylor Folk ArtMaya BooksSuffering BastardVisit Arcadia...
2023-12-2049 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 130: Reverse Snowbirding, Hidden Springs in the Florida Keys, and Fairy GrottosSend us your Florida questions!This week, the "Florida Spectacular" welcomes back a familiar voice — Brad Bertelli, an early and super-popular guest. Cathy, Rick and Brad talk about where to find hidden springs in the Florida Keys, an old manuscript that mentions a "fairy grotto" by Robbies, and how people are "reverse snowbirding" north of Florida.Links We MentionedRobbie'sLast LocalSupport the showQuestion or comment? Email us at cathy@floridaspectacular.com. Subscribe to The Fl...
2023-12-0735 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 Brooksville
2023-10-2559 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 Wata
2023-10-1144 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 121: Taking Back Florida Man: Men Who Made Florida SpectacularSend us your Florida questions!This week Rick and Cathy talk about Florida Man — but not the weird ones; the men who make Florida spectacular. From Abiaka to Lawton Chiles, they celebrate these wonderful men. (And yes, there's at least one in the works about great Florida women, too.)Links We MentionedGovernor Bob Graham and his WorkdaysGovernor Lawton Chiles and Walkin Lawton [VIDEO] — trail named for ChilesNat Reed (and his book, Travels on the Green Highway)Guy Bradley and Officer Down Memorial Page...
2023-10-0540 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 120: Who is Florida Man?Send us your Florida questions!"The rules are different here." Florida attracts all kinds, but often not the right types of people. This week Rick and Cathy talk about some notorious Florida men, starting with the earliest exploration narratives to more contemporary gentlemen (and they use that term loosely.)Links We MentionedGovernor Claude KirkGovernor Sidney CattsThe biggest con man in Florida: Gregor MacGregorJean Jacques LeMoyne (more plates here)Jacques L...
2023-09-2742 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 118: Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty, and Florida Man Music: Music From the Sunshine StateSend us your Florida questions!With Jimmy Buffett's death still sending waves of sadness through his immense fan community, Rick and Cathy turn to talk of Florida's music scene. Although Buffett wasn't a native Floridian, he spent his fair share of time in the Sunshine State — but he's far from the only great musician to make beautiful music in Florida. Join them as they talk about Tom Petty, Gamble Rogers, and other storied Florida musicians.Links We MentionedFlorida Folk FestivalSouthern Accents by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers fr...
2023-09-0737 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 117: Florida Films: Steve Martin, Cocoon, and Silent FilmsSend us your Florida questions!This week, Rick and Cathy welcome Joy Wallace Dickinson to talk about Florida's film history. From the silent film era, to the definitive film on aging gracefully (Cocoon), to more modern films, this episode's a walk down Florida's celluloid history. Find Joy’s old Florida mystery, Secrets of the Flamingo Cafe, on Amazon.Links We MentionedDave Barry's Big TroubleWhy you can't watch Cocoon anywhere.Jacksonville’s Norman Studios Bouncing Baby, a 1916 silent comedy, that was filmed in Jacksonville and...
2023-08-3140 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 114: You Have To Go North To Get South: Is Florida Part of the South?Send us your Florida questions!Ever heard the phrase, "you have to go north to get South"? That's not untrue. People often ask whether Florida is part of the South. The short answer: It's complicated. Yes... and no. Rick and Cathy talk about why that is, what they love about the South, and why it's such a complicated answer.Links We Mentioned Garden & Gun MagazineBurden of Southern History by C. Vann Woodward"Is Florida Part of the South?"Southern Storytellers on PBSThe Liberal Rednecks a...
2023-07-2636 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 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 112: Craig Pittman and pythons invade the podcast!Send us your Florida questions!This week, fellow Florida-phile Craig Pittman joins Rick and Cathy to talk about Florida's most current "it" exotic invasive: the Burmese python. As usual, the podcast slithers all over the place, so expect some talk about frogs and iguanas, too. More about CraigCraig Pittman is a native Floridian, an author, podcaster and an award-winning reporter. Born in Pensacola, he graduated from Troy State University in Alabama, where his muckraking work for the student paper prompted an agitated dean to label him "the most destructive force o...
2023-07-1245 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 111: Florida's Best WebsitesSend us your Florida questions!Whether you want to know about Florida travel, history, gardening, or food, Rick and Cathy have a short list of websites you should bookmark and use to make life in Florida even better. Links We MentionedAuthentic FloridaVisit Florida Florida MemoryPinellas MemoryWater AtlasPalmm collectionsIFAS/ ExtensionFresh From FloridaFlorida: A History in Pictures Just for fun, or if you're in the Santa Fe...
2023-07-0546 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: Take a Florida B-Movie Road TripSend us your Florida questions!Florida's home to some truly horrible B movies. B movies so bad, they're amazing. Rick and Cathy take a road trip around the state, using some of the best of the worst films made in Florida as a guide. St. Cloud: 2,000 ManiacsRight next door to tourist-swollen Kissimmee, you'll find St. Cloud, where this delightfully bad film was made in 15 days. Stop by St. Cloud, an area with some fascinating history, and don't forget to eat at The Catfish Place. Watch the tr...
2023-06-1443 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 106: Mount Dora Secrets: Waterskiing elephants, Antiques, and the ApocalypseSend us your Florida questions!Looking for a great weekend getaway, or something new to do in Central Florida? Rick and Cathy have some great places to see, things to do, and restaurants to try in Mount Dora. The small city's famous not only for its antiques; the downtown painted itself pink for a movie (which starred a waterskiing elephant and some fantastic Hollywood talent). Also, Pat Frank set his apocalyptic novel, Alas Babylon, in Mount Dora. Here's where to go to see Mount Dora like an insider.Links We Mentioned
2023-05-2528 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 ParkFerndale
2023-05-1140 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 show
2023-03-2432 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 Apartments
2023-03-1534 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 minFlorida SpectacularEpisode 94: June 18, 1964: The Civil Rights Movement Starts in FloridaSend us your Florida questions!Meet Bernadette Reeves, who, as a teenager in Lincolnville, marched for civil rights. Today, she gives tours and talks about the civil rights movement – and how what happened in St. Augustine led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act. Links & Places we mentionedThe Corner MarketMore about taking a civil rights tour with Ms. B.Lincolnville MuseumGoogle map of LincolnvilleRick's post about the Civil Rights movement in Florida and the QuadracentennialFind Ric...
2023-02-2328 min
Florida SpectacularEpisode 93: Top Five Places To Find Unusual Florida HistorySend us your Florida questions!Rick and Cathy talk about some off-the-beaten-path places in Florida that have not-often-discussed historical significance. Here's their Top 5 places to visit where you can soak in some unusual Florida history.Ma Barker HouseNew Smyrna Beach & The Turnbull ColonyRosewoodMicanopyA Concentration Camp at Egmont KeyLinks we mentionedNew Smyrna Museum of HistorySugar Mill Ruins The Turnbull ColonyCedar Key Museum State Park Cedar Key Historical Society MuseumRosewood markerOcoee Massacre exhibitMicanopy Hi...
2023-02-1540 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 90: Native WildflowersSend us your Florida questions!A special guest this week as Stacey Matrazzo, Executive Director for the Florida Wildflower Foundation joined the show. She is the co-author of Native Plants for Florida Gardens, which she wrote with botanist/restoration ecologist Nancy Bissett.Stacey has a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and a master’s degree in liberal studies from Rollins College, where she is also an adjunct professor. A native Floridian and certified Florida Master Naturalist, she spends much of her free time kayaking, hiking, birding and photographing Florida’s amazing natural environments.Fi...
2023-01-2538 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 88: Hidden Orlando, Discover Lake EolaSend us your Florida questions!Think Orlando is mostly Disney, I-Drive, and theme parks? Think again! In this episode, Rick and Cathy explore the heart of Orlando. They have must-see museums, walkable cultural areas, and places to eat. Planning a trip to Orlando? Don't miss this episode!Spend the Day in OrlandoBrunch Tamales in the Hourglass Social District or Daybreak Diner or Zaza's Cuban Comfort FoodMuseumsArt & History Museums MaitlandSports Catch a UC...
2023-01-1139 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 Cypress
2022-12-2144 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 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 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 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 min