Between The Beaches Podcast

Seth Carswell has a passion for custom design, craftsmanship, and legacy. As Florida's only custom boot maker, Seth's artistry, traditional technique, and commitment to detail are evident in every stitch of his boots. As a 3rd generation Floridian, his family background lies in timber production and he spent much of his younger years involved in that business or on the water, before turning to his passion for blending form, function, and legacy in leather goods. Nothing demonstrates this concept more than his alligator boots. Managing alligator populations through hunting programs on both public and private lands is an integral part of conservation here in the Sunshine State and Seth indirectly plays a small role in all this by crafting the tanned gator skins into beautiful boots that reflect his love of Florida. Join us in this conversation as we learn more about Seth's family the origins and future plans for Florida Boot Company.

Since its inception in 1993, the Florida Cow Culture Preservation Committee has remained dedicated to preserving Florida's cow culture as well as its Cow Hunter and Cracker heritage. In addition to organizing and executing countless cattle drives and trail rides, the FCCPC works tirelessly to celebrate the unique and foundational role that cattle have played throughout Florida's history while actively promoting Florida's rich heritage as a cattle state to a global audience. Jim McAlister, secretary for the FCCPC, joins us on the podcast this week to discuss the history of the committee's work, the upcoming 2026 Great Florida Cattle Drive, and we close out with a little central Florida cracker history.

Click here for more info on the 2026 Cattle Drive

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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.