This episode explores the phenomenon of red tide in Florida, discussing its causes, effects on marine life, historical context, and the ongoing scientific research aimed at understanding and mitigating its impact. The hosts delve into the natural occurrence of red tide, its correlation with human activities, and the importance of public awareness and policy in addressing this environmental issue.

Episode Timestamps: 

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

📍00:22 Understanding Red Tide: Causes and Effects

📍02:45 The Impact of Red Tide on Marine Life

📍06:00 Human Health and Red Tide: Risks and Precautions

📍09:02 Historical Context of Red Tide in Florida

📍11:30 The Science Behind Red Tide: Myths and Facts

📍15:25 The History of Red Tide Events

📍19:42 Scientific Theories and Research on Red Tide

📍21:34 Economic Impact and Policy Responses

📍27:29 Current Solutions and Future Directions

Resources & Links:

🔹Red Tide  FWC Current Status

🔹NOAA What is Red Tide? 

🔹Visit Florida Red Info/Questions

🔹Save The Manatee: Red Tide 

🔹Water Quality: Red Tide

🔹Red Tide in Florida and Texas

🔹Red Tide Timeline

🔹Clay Red Tide Treatment 

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, Kaylee & Mae explore a Florida tragedy—the collapse of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge on May 9, 1980. What started as a routine day turned into a nightmare when the MV Summit Venture collided with the bridge, causing a massive section to fall into Tampa Bay, taking the lives of 35 people.

We break down the bridge's history, the maritime challenges of Tampa Bay, and the fateful moments leading to the collapse. We also take a deep dive into the harrowing story of Wesley McIntyre, the sole survivor, and the aftermath of the disaster—rescue efforts, investigations, and the impact on maritime safety. Join us as we discuss the lessons learned, the rebuilding of the bridge, and how this tragedy still resonates today.

Episode Chapters:

📌 00:00 – Introduction to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge
📌 03:01 – The Historical Context of the Bridge
📌 05:22 – Navigating Tampa Bay’s Challenges
📌 09:05 – The Incident of May 9, 1980
📌 11:55 – The Collision and Its Aftermath
📌 31:24 – The Lone Survivor’s Journey
📌 36:35 – The Aftermath and Survivor’s Guilt
📌 39:07 – Search and Rescue Operations
📌 45:02 – The Recovery Mission
📌 46:02 – Investigating the Causes
📌 54:16 – Lessons Learned and New Safety Measures
📌 57:21 – The New Sunshine Skyway Bridge
📌 01:00:00 – Memorializing the Victims

Resources: 

🔹https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/i-was-the-one-who-saw-the-last-expression-on-their-face-sunshine-skyway-bridge-disaster-remembered-44-years-later/

🔹https://gcaptain.com/may-9-1980-tampa-skyway-bridge-disaster/

🔹https://www.wusf.org/show/florida-matters/2024-06-11/remembering-skyway-bridge-disaster-what-happened-44-years-ago

🔹https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/bridge-collapse-baltimore-skyway-tampa-rebuild/67-6f876ecf-4a1e-49f9-a3f8-df5ab340488f 

🔹https://stpetecatalyst.com/the-skyway-tragedy-at-40-the-survivor/ 

🔹​​https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/MAR8103.pdf

🔹https://www.tampabay.com/narratives/2020/05/08/skyway-bridge-disaster-coverage-from-1980-death-rode-in-on-early-morning-storm/

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]

This episode explores the Florida Panther, the state animal of Florida, discussing its selection, habitat, physical characteristics, diet, threats to its survival, and ongoing conservation efforts. The hosts delve into the history of the Florida Panther, its decline in population, and the importance of genetic diversity for its survival. They also highlight the challenges faced by the species due to habitat loss and human interference while emphasizing the need for continued conservation efforts to ensure the future of this iconic animal.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00  Introduction to Florida's Wildlife Podcast

📍 01:10  The Florida Panther: State Animal Selection

📍02:25 Exploring the Florida Panther's Habitat and Characteristics

📍08:12 Diet and Hunting Behavior of the Florida Panther

📍11:48 Conservation Status and Threats to the Florida Panther

📍16:17 The Ecosystem Balance and Its Complexity

📍17:43 Genetic Diversity and Conservation Efforts

📍19:20 Threats to the Florida Panther Population

📍24:28 Capturing and Tracking Florida Panthers

📍32:06 Public Awareness and Conservation Actions

Resources & Links:

🔹 Story behind choosing The State Animal 

🔹 Florida Wildlife Federation: Florida Panther

🔹 Panther Biology FWC

🔹Capturing Florida Panthers for Testing

🔹Panther Pulse 2024 

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, Kaylee & Mae dive into the extraordinary life of Marjorie Stoneman Douglas—writer, activist, and the fierce protector of the Everglades. She wasn’t just an environmentalist; she was a force of nature, fighting for conservation, women’s rights, and urban development reform. We explore her literary legacy, including her groundbreaking book Everglades: River of Grass, which changed how the world saw this fragile ecosystem.

Marjorie’s legacy reminds us why advocacy and community resilience matter. Join us as we uncover the wit, wisdom, and unyielding passion of the woman who dedicated her life to protecting Florida’s wild heart.

Episode Chapters:

📌 00:00 – Introduction
📌 01:52 – Marjorie Stoneman Douglas: The Grandmother of the Glades
📌 10:40 – Marjorie’s Literary Journey and Activism
📌 20:02 – The Fight for the Everglades
📌 24:04 – Marjorie’s Legacy and Lasting Impact
📌 26:35 – The Spicy Grandma of the Glades
📌 28:09 – Marjorie Stoneman Douglas: A Force of Nature
📌 30:35 – The Environmental Impact of Development
📌 32:40 – Community Resilience and Environmental Advocacy
📌 34:36 – Marjorie’s Legacy and Environmental Restoration
📌 36:49 – The Ongoing Fight for Conservation
📌 40:06 – A Life of Purpose and Activism
📌 42:39 – The Everglades: A National Treasure
📌 45:29 – The Interconnectedness of Environmental and Social Issues

Resources: 

🔹Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness - Everglades National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

🔹The life of Marjory Stoneman Douglas

🔹Marjory Stoneman Douglas - Division of Arts and Culture - Florida Department of State

🔹Marjory Stoneman Douglas

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 of the Florida wildlife podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of manatees, exploring their habitats, diet, physical characteristics, and the impact of human activities on their survival. They discuss conservation efforts, regulations to protect these gentle giants, and the importance of respecting their space in the wild. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and education regarding manatee protection, emphasizing the role of humans in their conservation. In this episode, Kaylee and Mae delve into the fascinating world of manatees, discussing their lifespan, mating habits, and the ongoing research and conservation efforts to protect these gentle giants. They also explore the intriguing folklore surrounding manatees and their historical misidentification as mermaids, drawing connections between myth and marine biology.

Episode Timestamps: 

📍00:00 Introduction to Florida's Wildlife Podcast

📍00:29 Exploring the World of Manatees

📍02:40 Manatee Habitats and Diet

📍05:24 Physical Characteristics and Behavior of Manatees

📍08:38 Human Impact on Manatees

📍11:48 Conservation Efforts and Regulations

📍12:12 Protecting Manatees: Boating Regulations

📍17:25 Manatees: A Protected Species

📍20:53 Reproduction and Maturity of Manatees

📍22:36 Manatee Lifespan and Mating Habits

📍24:18 Research and Conservation Efforts for Manatees

📍31:11 The Myth of Manatees as Mermaids

📍38:45 Folklore and Historical Perspectives on Mermaids

Resources & Links:

🔹 FWC Manatee Fun Facts

🔹Origin of Mermaids

🔹Mermaid or Manatee?

🔹Save the Manatee

🔹Blue Springs State Park Manatee Roll Call 

🔹Blue Springs Manatee Scar Sheet 

🔹Scar Sheet Key

🔹U.S Fish and Wildlife Service

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, Kaylee and Mae dive into the fascinating world of Florida Springs, exploring their geological formation, the role of the Floridan aquifer, and the rich history of Wakulla Springs. They discuss how ancient marine life shaped Florida’s landscape, the importance of conserving freshwater sources, and how Wakulla Springs has influenced tourism and local culture. From the impact of ice ages to the modern challenges of water conservation, this episode highlights why protecting these natural wonders is crucial.

📌 Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Florida's Unique Geology
01:56 Formation of Florida's Springs and Aquifer
03:53 The Impact of Ice Ages on Florida's Landscape
06:40 Understanding the Florida Aquifer
09:11 The Role of Springs and Sinkholes
10:57 Water Cycle and Aquifer Dynamics
13:11 Concerns About Water Usage and Drought
15:05 Exploring Wakulla Springs
17:23 Wakulla Springs: A Hidden Gem
23:15 Historical Significance of Wakulla Springs
27:47 The Development of Wakulla Lodge
32:56 Modern Discoveries and Conservation Challenges
40:42 Wrap-Up and Future Discussions

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

Resources: 

https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2019/01/16/submerged-mastodon-may-provide-clues-ancient-mysteries/2575989002/

https://iugs-geoheritage.org/geoheritage_sites/wakulla-spring/

https://chnep.wateratlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/04-aquifer-geology-09282016.pdf

https://chnep.wateratlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/257_Florida_Geological_History.pdf

https://floridasprings.org/springs-101/

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, Mae and Kaylee explore Florida's diverse wildlife, focusing on the Purple Gallinule, a vibrant bird native to South Florida. They discuss its physical characteristics, habitat, diet, and threats, including confusion with the invasive Purple Swamp Hen. 

The conversation highlights the ecological impact of invasive species in Florida and the importance of conservation efforts. Listeners are encouraged to report sightings of these birds to aid in tracking their populations and protecting native ecosystems.

Episode Timestamps: 

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

📍02:10 Exploring the Purple Gallinule

📍03:28 Physical Characteristics and Habitat of the Purple Gallinule

📍06:01 Diet and Predators of the Purple Gallinule

📍08:37 Confusion with the Purple Swamp Hen

📍11:07 Invasive Species: The Purple Swamp Hen

📍13:09 Impact on Florida's Ecosystem and Agriculture

📍15:22 Conservation Efforts and Reporting Sightings

📍17:50 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Resources & Links:

🔹 List of Endangered Birds

🔹 University Florida Invader Updater (Archived Series) 

🔹 All About Birds - Purple Gallinule

🔹 Sharon Florida - Purple Gallinule

🔹 UF Introduction of the Purple Swamphen

🔹 Purple Swamphens Migratory Bird Permits

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 today’s episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the life and legacy of Marjorie Harris Carr, a trailblazing conservationist who fought to protect Florida’s natural spaces. They discuss her role in establishing the Paynes Prairie Wildlife Refuge, her opposition to the Cross Florida Barge Canal, and the power of community advocacy in shaping environmental policy. The episode highlights the impact of public engagement, the formation of environmental advocacy groups, and the lasting legacy of the Cross Florida Greenway. As part of Women’s History Month, Kaylee and Maegan recognize Carr’s contributions to conservation and the importance of protecting Florida’s ecosystems.

Chapters:

03:05 Introduction to Florida's Unique History
 05:56 Marjorie Harris Carr: A Trailblazer in Conservation
 09:13 The National Youth Administration and Its Impact
 11:58 Marjorie's Early Career and Family Life
 15:07 Establishing Paynes Prairie Wildlife Refuge
 17:54 Community Engagement and Environmental Awareness
 21:02 The Cross Florida Barge Canal: Ambitious Plans and Consequences
 23:59 Labor Struggles and Community Displacement
 26:45 The Aftermath of the Canal Project
 27:44 Environmental Concerns and Advocacy
 32:02 The Impact of Public Engagement on Environmental Awareness
 37:08 Formation of Environmental Advocacy Groups
 42:06 Legislative Changes and Environmental Protection
 48:50 The Legacy of the Cross Florida Greenway

Resources: 

https://fladefenders.org/history/marjorie-harris-carr/

https://myfloridahistory.org/frontiers/article/95

Book: Ditch of Dreams by David Tegeder and Steven Noll

https://www.floridastateparks.org/Cross-Florida

https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/history-cross-florida-greenway

https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/historic-santos-recreation-area

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]

This episode explores the Anastasia Island Beach Mouse, a unique and endangered species native to Florida. The hosts discuss the mouse's habitat, diet, reproduction, and the various threats it faces, including habitat loss and predation. They emphasize the importance of conservation efforts and the role of the community in protecting this species and its environment. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of the beach ecosystem and the significance of sand dunes in maintaining ecological balance.

Episode Timestamps:

📍00:00 Introduction to the Anastasia Island Beach Mouse

📍02:46 Habitat and Characteristics of Beach Mice

📍04:50 Diet and Reproduction of Beach Mice

📍07:18 Threats to the Anastasia Island Beach Mouse

📍10:13 Conservation Efforts and Future Outlook

📍15:00 Breeding and Lifespan of Beach Mice

📍16:06 Natural Threats and Predators

📍17:49 Role of Sand Dunes in Ecosystem

📍20:20 Erosion and Its Consequences

📍23:56 Restoration Efforts and Community Involvement

Resources & Links:

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/anastasia-island-beach-mouse/

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/anastasia-island-beach-mouse/

https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/beach-mice/

https://www.fws.gov/story/mouse-roared

https://www.staugbch.com/community/page/beach-restoration-project-2023-2024

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 Fl Experiences you'd like to share, email us at [email protected]

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, Kaylee and Maegan explore the remarkable history of Fort Mose, the first legally recognized free Black settlement in what would become the United States. Located near St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose was a sanctuary for Africans escaping slavery, offering a new life under Spanish rule.

The discussion covers the settlement’s founding, the different approaches to slavery in Spanish and British territories, the role of Catholicism in granting freedom, and the resilience of maroon communities. The episode also highlights the British siege, the cultural and social structures that defined life in Fort Mose, and the ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy.

Episode Timestamps:
📍 00:00 – Introduction to Florida's Unique History
📍 01:05 – The Establishment of Fort Mose
📍 03:03 – The Journey of Africans to Florida
📍 06:00 – Differences in Slavery: Spanish vs. British
📍 11:55 – The Role of Catholicism in Freedom
📍 18:03 – Maroon Communities and Their Significance
📍 24:30 – The Historical Context of Fort Mose
📍 30:13 – The Community and Leadership at Fort Mose
📍 35:02 – The British Siege and Aftermath
📍 40:08 – Cultural Dynamics and Social Structure
📍 45:02 – The Legacy of Fort Mose and Its Rebirth

Resources & Links:
🔹 Learn more about Fort Mose- Website: Fort Mose Historic State Park 

🔹Facebook: Fort Mose Historical Society | Saint Augustine FL

🔹 Nation's Oldest City: In 1687, Florida offered asylum to 11 refugees who sought freedom from slavery

🔹Battle of Bloody Mose

🔹African Americans in St. Augustine 1565-1821 - Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

🔹Fort Mose: The first free Black town in the US

🔹The English Menace & African Resistance

🔹Fort Mose Historical Society | Saint Augustine FL

🔹Fort Mose Artifacts

🔹Fort Mose Historic State Pa

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]