This episode explores the issue of invasive species in Florida, discussing their historical context, impact on native wildlife, and the importance of public awareness and reporting. The hosts delve into specific examples such as feral hogs, Burmese pythons, lionfish, green iguanas, and the Brazilian pepper tree, highlighting the ecological challenges they pose. The conversation highlights the importance of community involvement in preserving Florida's unique ecosystems.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Invasive Species in Florida

📍00:57 Historical Context of Invasive Species

📍10:24 Modern Introduction of Invasive Species

📍11:48 The Impact of Burmese Pythons

📍16:44 Lionfish: A Beautiful Threat

📍17:35 The Role of Exotic Pets in Invasiveness

📍18:42 The Green Iguana and Its Impact

📍20:05 The Intriguing World of Iguanas

📍24:55 Invasive Species: The Brazilian Pepper Tree

📍26:56 The Impact of Invasive Species on Florida's Ecosystem

📍33:14 Community Efforts to Combat Invasive Species

📍40:47 Conclusion and Future Discussions on Invasive Species

Resources & Links:

🔹Conservancy of Southwest Florida 

🔹Burmese Python & Invasive Species

🔹Invasive Species 

🔹Hernando De Soto 

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Our Florida Podcast, hosts Kaylee and Mae Betts celebrate Kaylee's birthday while exploring the fascinating history and attractions of Wikiuachi Springs State Park. They discuss the park's unique features, including its mermaid shows, the environmental challenges it faces, and the importance of conservation efforts. The conversation highlights personal connections to Florida's natural beauty and the significance of preserving its history and ecosystems.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Our Florida Podcast

📍02:22 Celebrating Birthdays and Personal Reflections

📍05:18 Exploring Wikiuachi Springs State Park

📍08:11 The Mermaids of Wikiuachi Springs

📍10:06 History and Development of Wikiuachi Springs

📍13:21 The Mermaids Show: A Unique Attraction

📍15:46 The Evolution of the Mermaid Show

📍18:05 Exploring the Attractions of WikiWatchee Springs

📍21:37 The Evolution of Entertainment at the Springs

📍25:17 The Rise and Fall of the Park

📍30:13 Revitalization and Preservation Efforts

📍37:13 Reflections on the Mermaids and the Future of the Springs

Resources & Links:

🔹Celebrating the History of Weeki Wachee Springs - Authentic Florida

🔹The History of Florida’s Weeki Wachee Mermaids

🔹Florida Memory • Visitors with animals at the Weeki Wachee Springs amusement park petting zoo

🔹Outstanding Florida Springs – Weeki Wachee Springs Group

🔹Florida Memory • May Museum of Tropical Insects.

🔹Weeki Wachee Springs State Park | WaterMatters.org

🔹Weeki Wachee - NatureCoaster.com

🔹The History of Florida’s Weeki Wachee Mermaids

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Mae and Kaylee explore the folklore surrounding Florida's Skunk Ape, a creature often compared to Bigfoot. They discuss its origins, sightings, and the various theories surrounding its existence, including the possibility of it being a misidentified black bear or a figment of local folklore. The conversation delves into the cultural significance of the Skunk Ape and invites listeners to share their own stories and experiences related to Florida's wildlife and myths.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Florida's Unique Wildlife and History
00:41 Exploring Florida's Folklore and Myths
02:49 The Legend of the Skunk Ape
05:47 Historical Sightings and Cultural Significance
11:23 The Mayaka Skunk Ape Photo and Its Impact
15:44 The Skunk Ape: Florida's Cryptid Mystery
19:46 Skepticism and Theories Surrounding the Skunk Ape
23:53 Cultural Significance of Cryptids Across States
28:18 Listener Engagement and Future Topics

Resources & Links:

🔹Skunk Ape

🔹West Palm Beach Skunk Ape

🔹Big Foots Names State Wide

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, we explore the complex and often turbulent history of LGBTQ rights in Florida, from Drag queens in the 1930s to the fight for recognition in the wake of the AIDS crisis. We take you through pivotal moments, such as the brutal actions of the Johns Committee, the damaging rhetoric of Anita Bryant, and the resilience of the LGBTQ community during some of the darkest decades. This is a powerful look at the road to Pride, filled with both hard-won progress and sobering setbacks.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Florida's LGBTQ History
02:51 – The Early Struggles for LGBTQ Rights
05:58 – LGBTQ Representation in the 1930s–50s
08:46 – Cold War Tensions and Increased Persecution
11:58 – The Johns Committee and the Witch Hunts
15:00 – Efforts Toward Visibility and Acceptance
18:06 – Setbacks and Progress Through the Decades
30:45 – The Lasting Damage of the Johns Committee
34:03 – The Purple Pamphlet and Public Outrage
41:55 – Sexuality, Misconceptions, and Misinformation
49:30 – Backlash Against LGBTQ Rights
55:46 – Anita Bryant and the Save Our Children Campaign
1:02:04 – The AIDS Crisis and Community Mobilization
1:10:53 – LGBTQ Activism in the 80s and 90s
1:19:02 – Reflections on Pride and the Ongoing Fight

Resources: 
Jewel Box: https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/ft848q91n
http://transascity.org/files/news/1959_11_14_San_Diego_Union_A3.jpg
https://time.com/6176224/florida-dont-say-gay-history-lgbtq-rights/
https://cah.ucf.edu/the-committee/

Recommended Listening: 
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-one-lesbian-mutual-aid-during-the-aids-crisis/id162056
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-two-lesbian-mutual-aid-during-the-aids-crisis/id1620562792?i=1000697814846
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-one-act-up-how-angry-dying-queers-invented-modern/id1620562792?i=1000659219144
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-two-act-up-how-angry-dying-queers-invented-modern/id1620562792?i=1000659474453

#Queerhistory #lgbtq #anitabryant #dragqueen #transwomen #floridahistory #gayrights #gayactivism #lesbian #transrights #saveourchildren #pridemonth #floridapride #floridahistory #miamipride #keywestpride #johnscommittee 

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Kaylee and Mae delve into the bizarre and often disturbing stories that have come to define Florida's reputation, with a particular focus on the infamous case of Karl Tanzler and his obsession with Elena Hoyos. They discuss various Florida Man stories, the life of Tanzler, and the public's reaction to his actions, ultimately reflecting on the implications of such tales in the context of Florida's unique culture.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into Florida’s history and environment!

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Florida's Quirky History

📍02:03 The Infamous Florida Man Stories

📍04:13 The Life of Karl Tanzler

📍06:54 Tanzler's Obsession with Elena

📍09:21 The Disturbing Aftermath of Elena's Death

📍14:09 The Discovery and Legal Consequences

📍16:39 The Aftermath of Elena's Death

📍19:48 The Media Sensation and Public Perception

📍21:45 Tanzler's Life After Elena

📍24:21 Reflections on Morality and Death

📍26:07 Ghost Stories and Superstitions

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, hosts Mae and Kaylee discuss the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), its mission, and the potential conflicts of interest among its commissioners. They explore the backgrounds of various commissioners, highlighting their ties to development and business, which may conflict with conservation efforts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of public engagement and advocacy for wildlife protection, urging listeners to take action and demand better governance for Florida's ecosystems.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Florida's Wildlife and Ecosystems

📍00:22 Exploring FWC's Mission and Leadership

📍05:32 Commissioner Profiles: Conflicts of Interest

📍14:02 The Role of Women in FWC Leadership

📍15:51 Exploring the Background of Key Figures

📍22:10 Conflict of Interest in Conservation Leadership

📍31:04 The Importance of Qualifications in Conservation

📍32:26 Taking Action for Florida's Future

Resources & Links:

🔹OPPAGA - FWC

🔹Reform the FWC Petition

🔹FL Admin Code & Register

🔹Proposal FL FWC Reform Bill (HJR 1625) 

🔹Official Proposal Postponed

🔹Representative Dr. Anna V. Eskamani Introduces HJR 1625 to Strengthen Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Mae and Kaylee delve into the complexities of Florida's wildlife management, focusing on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). They discuss the FWC's mission, structure, and commissioners' roles, highlighting concerns about conflicts of interest and the need for reform. The conversation emphasizes the importance of public engagement and advocacy in shaping wildlife policy in Florida.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Exploring the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

📍03:55 The Role and Responsibilities of FWC Commissioners

📍09:38 Public Engagement and Transparency in FWC Meetings

📍13:10 Conflict of Interest and Leadership in FWC

📍15:45 The Business of Land Ownership

📍18:19 Conflict of Interest in Wildlife Management

📍20:21 Lack of Diversity in Conservation Leadership

📍22:03 Proposed Changes to the FWC

📍24:36 Public Engagement and Activism

📍29:22 The Future of Florida's Wildlife

Resources & Links:

🔹OPPAGA - FWC

🔹Reform the FWC Petition

🔹FL Admin Code & Register

🔹Proposal FL FWC Reform Bill (HJR 1625) 

🔹Official Proposal Postponed

🔹Representative Dr. Anna V. Eskamani Introduces HJR 1625 to Strengthen Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast

https://www.youtube.com/@ourfloridapodcast

If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, hosts Kaylee and Mae explore Florida's rich history of hurricanes, wildlife, and community involvement. They discuss the importance of understanding hurricane categories, the dangers of storm surge, and the impact of flooding. The conversation also highlights the role of first responders and the need for community support during disasters. A significant focus is placed on the 1928 hurricane disaster, examining its historical context and the racial disparities in response and recovery efforts. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of preparation and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Florida's Podcast and Hosts

📍00:38 Florida Wildlife and Current Events

📍01:47 Hurricane Season and Its Importance

📍03:47 Understanding Hurricanes: Meteorology and Misconceptions

📍08:07 The Impact of Hurricane Winds and Storm Surge

📍11:47 Flooding and Its Dangers During Hurricanes

📍19:41 Preparing for Hurricanes: Tips and Resources

📍24:37 The Importance of Preparedness

📍29:13 Understanding Hurricane Impacts

📍29:40 The History of Lake Okeechobee

📍33:51 The Path of the Hurricane

📍40:31 The Experience of the Storm

📍46:51 The Aftermath and Death Toll

📍48:41 Hurricane Maria and Public Response

📍49:41 The Aftermath of the 1928 Hurricane

📍51:44 Forced Labor and Racial Injustice

📍53:01 Segregation in Death: A Historical Perspective

📍55:11 The Legacy of the 1928 Hurricane

📍57:31 Mass Graves and Historical Neglect

📍01:00:51 The Importance of Humanitarian Aid

📍01:04:42 Rebuilding and Future Preparedness

Resources & Links:

🔹The 1928 Okeechobee Hurricane (September 6-21, 1928)

🔹Florida Frontiers “The Hurricane of 1928”

🔹Hurricane of 1928 Mass Burial Site - Atlas Obscura

🔹 On Sep 16, 1928: Hundreds of Black Victims of Hurricane Denied Proper Burial in West Palm Beach, Florida

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Mae and Kaylee dive into the upcoming Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting and what it means for the future of Florida’s black bear population. They unpack the complex issues of wildlife management, including bear population estimates, proposed hunting regulations, and the role of public engagement.

You’ll hear about:

The growing Florida black bear population and how it's being measured

The FWC’s current management strategies and concerns over potential conflicts of interest

Proposed regulated bear hunts and the public’s reaction

The importance of habitat preservation alongside population control

How you can get involved and make your voice heard

Whether you’re a conservation advocate or simply curious about Florida’s wildlife, this episode sheds light on the pressing questions around how we manage and protect our wild spaces.

🎤 Topics Covered:

May FWC Commission meeting details

Public participation and oversight challenges

Capture-mark-recapture bear population methods

Impacts of human development on wildlife

Public opinion, alternative solutions, and the power of advocacy

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others who care about wildlife conservation in Florida.

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the May Commission Meeting
05:06 Public Participation and Meeting Logistics
09:58 Concerns About FWC and Bear Management
15:03 Future of Florida Black Bears
19:51 Bear Population Management Strategies
30:02 Research Methods for Bear Population Estimation
32:11 Estimating Bear Populations
34:14 Community Engagement and Stakeholder Involvement
37:36 Regulated Bear Hunts: Purpose and Management
40:12 Habitat Preservation vs. Population Control
44:27 Hunting Regulations and Permit Management
48:03 Concerns and Questions from the Public
51:30 Exploring Alternative Population Control Methods
53:29 Regulatory Oversight and Enforcement Challenges
55:30 Final Thoughts on the Bear Hunt Discussion
01:00:46 Looking Ahead: Future Meetings and Community Involvement

#Floridablackbear #blackbearhunt #flblackbearhunt2025 #fwc #floridawildlife #floridastateparks #bearmanagement #flblackbearhunt2015

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Florida Wildlife Podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of the Florida Black Bear, discussing its unique characteristics, breeding and hibernation patterns, diet, and habitat. They also explore the controversial 2015 bear hunt that lasted only 48 hours due to the high number of bears killed, raising questions about wildlife management and conservation efforts in Florida. The conversation highlights the complexities of balancing wildlife populations with human interactions and the ongoing challenges faced by the Florida Black Bear.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Florida's Wildlife Podcast

📍02:20 Exploring the Florida Black Bear

📍22:29 The 2015 Florida Black Bear Hunt and Its Impact

📍27:11 Understanding Bear Population Management

📍30:28 The Economics of Bear Hunting

📍32:31 Regional Breakdown of Bear Harvests

📍37:34 Hunting Regulations and Their Impact

📍42:44 Public Sentiment and Controversy

📍48:38 Future of Bear Management and Conservation

Resources & Links:

🔹FWC April 2nd Virtual Public Meeting 2025

🔹FWC April 3rd Virtual Public Meeting 2025

🔹FWC April 5th Virtual Public Meeting 2025

🔹FWC Email Subscription Updates and Alerts

🔹FWC Black Bear Biology

🔹2015 Florida Black Bear Hunt Summary Report

🔹FWC Estimating Bear Abundance

🔹FWC Draft May Meeting

Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.

https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast

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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]