In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, hosts Ryan Matthews and Brett Cyphers are joined by fellow editorial board members Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest developments shaping Florida’s water and environmental policy. 

The team sits down for a timely discussion recorded in the newly launched Specifier Media Studio in Tallahassee. As Florida’s legislative session ramps up, the board breaks down early-session dynamics, budget pressures, and the role relationships and personalities play in shaping policy outcomes.

The conversation highlights key stories from the latest issue of Florida Specifier, including the governor’s recommended budget, water quality funding, regional water supply planning, conservation priorities, and evolving property tax proposals. The episode also explores federal issues, such as the latest Waters of the United States (WOTUS) definition, alongside local and regional environmental initiatives across Florida.

The board wraps up with updates on new Florida Specifier partnerships, upcoming podcast episodes, Capitol events, and major water and environmental conferences on the horizon.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of the Florida Specifier podcast, host Ryan Matthews and co-host Brett Cyphers, along with Editorial Board members Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn gather in the newly minted Specifier Media Studio to go through the major policy themes shaping Florida as Committee Week number four moves forward. The team unpacks the House’s property tax proposals, looming budget pressures, and the sprint toward the January 13 session start, all while keeping an eye on the political dynamics of an election year.

They highlight standout stories from the latest Florida Specifier, including Florida’s expanding use of artificial reefs, a significant Endangered Species Act lawsuit in Charlotte County, DOT’s ambitious Tampa Bay “win-win-win” project, and new momentum behind seagrass restoration in the lower St. Johns River.

Ryan and Brett also recap recent podcast interviews — from environmental law leaders Steve and Terry Lewis to an unprecedented panel of former DEP secretaries — and preview key water and environmental conferences coming in early 2026.

With the December 10 article deadline approaching for the January/February edition, the Board encourages listeners to send events and story ideas to [email protected] soon. 

Tune in for insights, updates, and the Editorial Board’s signature blend of expertise and humor.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this special episode, host Brett Cyphers welcomes listeners to a dynamic conversation with four former secretaries of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection — Herschel T. Vinyard Jr., Jon Steverson, Shawn Hamilton, and Ryan Matthews — moderated by current Secretary Alexis Lambert. Recorded at the Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island, the panel reflects on how Florida’s environmental policies have evolved — and where they’re headed next.

The discussion begins with a core challenge: balancing timely permitting and environmental protection. Vinyard and Steverson highlight the importance of clear rules, accountability, and quick decisions — even when the answer is “no.”

Vinyard and Secretary Lambert emphasize that permitting decisions work best when made locally, while Steverson underscores the role of water management districts as trusted partners. Matthews shares how legislation and BMAPs have shaped Florida’s springs protection efforts, despite legal and stakeholder challenges.

Secretary Lambert reflects on the ongoing tension between growth and environmental stewardship, calling it a “perennial responsibility.” Hamilton outlines how Florida’s stormwater rule modernization — the first major update in over four decades — balances environmental needs with economic realities.

Looking ahead, Secretary Lambert envisions integrating AI and automation into permitting to improve efficiency while keeping expert judgment at the center. Each former secretary closes by reflecting on their legacy, from digitizing permitting to empowering teams. All agree: people — both agency staff and Floridians — remain at the heart of DEP’s mission.

If you were not able witness this incredible discussion in person this past summer, here’s your chance to hear directly from the current and former DEP secretaries as they share their experiences, lessons learned, and vision for the future of environmental stewardship in Florida.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, hosts Ryan Matthews and Brett Cyphers are joined by fellow editorial board members Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest developments shaping Florida’s water and environmental policy. 

The team kicks off by recapping summer conference season, including Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island, and looks ahead to the upcoming legislative committee weeks starting in October. They dive into the impacts of the Florida Legislature’s decision to not fund the Water Quality Improvement Grant for FY 2025 — leaving $2.5 billion in project applications competing for a much smaller pot of available funds. The discussion explores strategies utilities and consultants are using to bridge this “dry spell,” the role of member projects in future budgets, and how property tax debates may influence funding priorities going forward.

The group also discusses breaking news on the 11th Circuit’s Alligator Alcatraz decision, highlights from the September–October issue of the Florida Specifier, and key topics like the FWC bear hunt, Everglades restoration, and water management district projects. They spotlight standout articles, including Rep. Connolly’s distributed wastewater treatment legislation and Alex Price’s insights on nutrient reduction, and recognize the City of Tallahassee’s award-winning investments in power reliability and water quality.

Finally, they share updates on recent and upcoming podcast interviews — including Doug Corbett of JW Marriott Marco Island and Mandi Rice of SWFWMD — and preview their recently released live-recorded panel from the AWRA Annual Conference in Key West with Kim Shugar, Adam Blalock, and Omar Franco. These are episodes you won’t want to miss, available on both the Florida Specifier and Water for Fighting Podcasts.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This special joint episode from Water for Fighting and the Florida Specifier Podcast—a product of the Specifier Media Group—was recorded in front of a live audience at the American Water Resources Association’s annual conference in Key West. Host, Brett Cyphers sits down with three of Florida’s most influential voices in water policy and advocacy: Kim Shugar, Senior Advisor and Environmental Policy Lead at the Arrow Group; Adam Blalock, Deputy Secretary for Ecosystem Restoration at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection; and Omar Franco, head of Becker & Poliakoff, P.A.’s federal lobbying practice in Washington, D.C.

Together, they traced their personal paths into public service and policy, sharing how early experiences shaped their commitment to Florida’s waters. From childhood fishing trips to navigating the intricacies of legislative chambers, each guest offered a unique perspective on how decisions at both the state and federal levels ripple through local communities.

The discussion tackled some of the most pressing issues in Florida’s water future, including the state budget, Everglades restoration, basin management action plans, nutrient reduction challenges, and the complex balance between federal funding, state priorities, and local responsibilities—all while highlighting the importance of mentorship, persistence, and partnerships in tackling long-term environmental challenges.

This collaboration offers a window into the strategies, struggles, and successes of those working every day to secure Florida’s water future.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, Ryan Matthews, Brett Cyphers and Jeff Littlejohn sit down with Doug Corbett, Director of Sales and Marketing at the JW Marriott Marco Island. Together, they reflect on the rich history of the Environmental Permitting Summer School, now in its 39th year and gearing up for its 40th anniversary.

The conversation blends personal stories, family legacies, and the special connection that so many attendees share with Marco Island. Doug shares his journey from visiting the resort in the 1990s to becoming part of its leadership team, offering insights into what makes the property unique, from its iconic sunsets to the staff’s legendary hospitality.

The group reflects on the event’s legacy and its lasting connection to this iconic property. With the 40th anniversary approaching, they look ahead to celebrating the milestone and honoring the history that made “Marco” synonymous with Florida’s Environmental Permitting Summer School.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of The Florida Specifier Podcast, co-hosts Brett Cyphers and Ryan Matthews are joined by Representative Toby Overdorf, an environmental consultant, engineer, and longtime legislator, as he enters his final year in the Florida House.

Recorded on-site at the 39th Annual Environmental Permitting Summer School, the conversation explores how Representative Overdorf’s background continues to shape his legislative priorities. From new stormwater regulations and the rising cost of environmental restoration, to his thoughts on water supply, infrastructure needs, and invasive species management, Representative Overdorf offers a candid look at what it takes to balance Florida’s rapid growth with environmental protection.

The episode also dives into his future plans, including a run for Senate District 31, and his perspective on potential shifts in environmental policy under a Byron Donalds administration. With sharp insights, real-world experience, and a focus on both fiscal and ecological responsibility, Representative Overdorf lays out what’s next for Florida’s environmental landscape—and his role in it.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone tracking the intersection of policy, permitting, and preservation in the Sunshine State.

To read the Florida Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of theFlorida Specifier Podcast, Brett Cyphers is joined by editor-in-chief Patrick Gillespie and editorial board member Jeff Littlejohn for a lively conversation that dives into Florida’s finalized state budget, line-item vetoes, and what it all means for environmental funding—particularly water quality grants and Everglades restoration.

Special guest Jamie Sheehan, Conference Director of the Environmental Permitting Summer School (EPSS), joins the crew to give a behind-the-scenes preview of this year’s event in Marco Island. From revamped schedules and streamlined sessions to an exciting new fireside chat with current and former FDEP secretaries, this year’s EPSS promises to be bigger and better than ever.

You’ll also hear a rundown of the latest edition of the Florida Specifier, including stories on recycling, WOTUS updates, and favorite picks from the editorial team. Recorded just days after the Governor signed the state budget, this episode delivers timely insights and a fun look ahead to Florida’s premier environmental conference.

To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here:

https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: 

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier.  Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, hosts Brett Cyphers and Ryan Matthews are joined by editorial board members Jeff Littlejohn and Patrick Gillespie for a dynamic roundtable conversation that blends policy insight with candid storytelling. As Florida approaches a new fiscal year, the team tackles the looming uncertainty surrounding the state budget. With the House and Senate still at odds—particularly over proposed tax cuts—the possibility of a special session and even a budget veto hangs in the air. The group reflects on the political tension and its implications, especially with hurricane season just around the corner.

The conversation kicks into high gear as the group explores some of the session’s most significant environmental legislation. They begin with Senate Bill 796, which introduces a streamlined permitting process for Distributed Wastewater Treatment Systems—highlighted as a promising tool in efforts to reduce reliance on septic tanks. Attention then turns to new laws aimed at improving workplace protections for utility workers, as well as updates to the state’s Brownfields Redevelopment Program that could accelerate environmental cleanups across a wider range of properties. The discussion also delves into one of the session’s more debated measures: a mitigation bill that broadens the use of out-of-basin and out-of-kind credits. While supporters frame it as a necessary response to credit shortages, the group notes that it represents a notable departure from long-standing state policy and has sparked a range of reactions.

As the conversation moves from policy to publication, Patrick shares the editorial challenges of covering fast-moving legislative developments in a bimonthly print format. Yet, with timely digital updates and a growing newsletter, The Florida Specifier remains a vital resource. The group previews the upcoming Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island, revealing refreshed course formats, new sponsors, and even a reimagined keynote experience. They also tease podcast recordings live from the event, offering attendees a chance to join the conversation.

The episode closes with personal reflections and upcoming guests on Brett’s Water for Fighting podcast—including industry leaders, scientists, and policy insiders. Amid the laughter and light teasing, one thing is clear: these are seasoned professionals deeply invested in Florida’s environmental future, using every tool—from legislation to storytelling—to protect and shape the state they serve.

To read the Florida Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, hosts Brett Cyphers and Ryan Matthews are joined by fellow members of the Florida Specifier editorial board: Jeff Littlejohn and Patrick Gillespie. Together, they dive into the fast-moving first week of Florida’s legislative session, analyzing the impact of delayed committee meetings, the challenges of processing nearly 1,800 filed bills, and the likelihood of fewer than 225 bills making it to the governor’s desk.

The discussion highlights key environmental and water-related legislation to watch, including SB-7002 on Water Management Districts, the Safe Waterways Act, and the Everglades restoration budget. The team also explores the shifting political landscape, with changes at both DEP and the EPA influencing Florida’s environmental policies.

Additionally, they preview the latest edition of The Florida Specifier, covering articles on fluoride in drinking water, federal environmental policy changes under the new administration, and an exclusive interview with industry leader Shawn Hamilton.

With an engaging mix of policy insight, industry updates, and candid discussion, this episode is a must-listen for environmental professionals, policymakers, and anyone invested in Florida’s natural resources.

To read the Florida Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com

To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast.

This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios.

A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.