The city of Jacksonville has long struggled with the realities of one of its greatest assets: its sheer size. While the consolidated 840 square miles gives it scale and muscle (it’s also the most populous city proper in Florida by far), Jacksonville’s land mass is also unwieldy when it comes to identifying and celebrating defining characteristics. In recent years, the closest anyone has come to a unifying theme is the unfortunate moniker “the city of renderings.” No surprise, the boosters at the Jacksonville Civic Council believe the city deserves more and better, and they are asking the community to chime in. We discuss the newly launched Community Identity Survey and what is to be gained by a shared civic identity.

Guests:

• Will Ketchum,  Jacksonville Civic Council research committee co-chair, president and CEO, High Reason
• Dennis Whittle, Jacksonville Civic Council president and CEO
  

Then, the holidays are a joyful time but also the source of stress for many. Coupled with disrupted routines and Yuletide celebrations, it can be easy to overindulge in holiday spirits. For those in recovery, the risk of relapse can be heightened. Two experts discuss how to navigate holiday stress, avoid substance abuse as a coping mechanism and protect sobriety during seasonal gatherings.

Guests:

• Nick Padlo, CEO of Sophros Recovery
• Tracy Collins, author of Stumbling Into Sobriety

And, a networking event for the Northeast Florida podcasting community. Jax Podcasters United hosts its third annual Jax Podathon for aspiring, novice or seasoned podcasters, audio creators and anyone interested in the increasingly ubiquitous medium. Attendees will participate in mini-workshops, brainstorm topics for podcasts and get hands-on advice. The event also features a donation drive that includes a giveaway and “exclusive” prizes.

Guests:

• Blythe Milligan, co-founder, Jax Podcasters United and host, Everything is Logistics
• Tom Rossi, co-founder, Higher Pixels, creator of Buzzsprout