Trains have long played a significant role in shaping the face of Florida dating back to when Henry Flagler laid the first tracks. Today, it feels like agriculture and much of our old Florida culture is tied to those tracks staring into the lights of a metaphorical runaway train of growth and development. In this episode, we look at some of the cultural events we've done in the first quarter of this year seeking to promote and preserve our heritage as well as discussing the pressures farming and ranching are facing throughout Florida during this era of rapid and explosive change.

This week we sit down with James Johnston to explore the rich Celtic herding heritage that helped shape Florida's foundation and still helps forge her future. We also cover the new knowledge Jamesie gained about Florida this week as he spent several days with us exploring what lies Between The Beaches from the ranch down to the lower Everglades. Additionally, he shares his background on his endeavors plus we draw comparisons between Florida and Scotland environmentally, politically, and more. It's a wide ranging conversation but one that revolves around protecting your culture, your heritage, and your resources.

In spite of hurricanes, high prices, and other challenges, these days everyone seems to be in love with the Sunshine State because they keep flocking in here like moths to the flame. But there's a big difference between lust or fake love and a deep, abiding love. On this week's episode, we feature essays by various conservationists from across Florida describing their love and appreciation for her. So many different perspectives, yet so many common themes as well that all combine to paint a vivid picture of real Florida.

NOTE:  While we didn't necessarily intend to start the year with a rebroadcast, we couldn't pass on the opportunity to share this insightful conversation with Mr. Jerry Lee "Ham" Brown from back in March 2023.  Ham probably knew and forgot more about horses than most people will ever learn and he shared some great stories in this episode of the podcast.  Ham passed away this past week so we felt it only fitting to bring this episode out of the vault to share with everyone.  We hope y'all enjoy it. 

Within the ranching community and performance horse circles, the name Ham Brown is synonymous with high quality horses filled with a whole lot of cow sense. His family first settled in Florida back in the 1800's so his roots run quite deep in Osceola County. In this episode, we touch on his early days working cattle across the state, his career in the cutting horse circuit, and plenty other memories of a Florida that's quickly disappearing.