What does it take to turn a childhood dream into a thriving craft brewery? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Chris and Josh, the founders of Lawless Coast Brewing Company in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, to discuss their incredible journey from home brewing enthusiasts to brewery owners on Florida's Emerald Coast.

The conversation begins with the origins of Lawless Coast Brewing, a dream the two friends first discussed as teenagers before they were even old enough to legally drink beer. Chris and Josh share how a life-changing accident, career frustrations, and a passion for craft beer pushed them to finally pursue the brewery idea years later. They recount their early days brewing beer in a kitchen using simple homebrew kits, learning through trial and error, and producing batches they now laugh about but were once proud to share.

Chris and Josh dive deep into the realities of opening a brewery, including navigating construction delays, equipment shortages, county permitting challenges, and the lengthy licensing process that delayed their opening for years. They explain how they continued refining recipes throughout the process, allowing them to launch with a strong lineup of beers once the doors finally opened.

The founders discuss how they create unique beer styles, name their brews, and balance creativity with consistency. They also share the stories behind some of their most popular beers, including Triple D, Uncle Ed's Irish-style ale, and several movie-inspired creations that reflect their personalities and sense of humor.

Beyond beer, the episode highlights the importance of community involvement and local partnerships. Chris and Josh discuss hosting charity events, supporting local schools, working with organizations like Bed 4 Me and Shelter House, and creating a gathering place where locals and visitors can connect. They explain why they view their brewery as a modern version of a traditional public house—a community hub rather than just a place to grab a drink.

Whether you're interested in craft beer, entrepreneurship, small business ownership, or life on Florida's Emerald Coast, this episode offers valuable insights, entertaining stories, and practical lessons about perseverance, friendship, and building something meaningful from the ground up.

Topics Covered:
• Starting a craft brewery in Florida
• Homebrewing and recipe development
• Overcoming business and permitting challenges
• Craft beer culture and brewing science
• Community involvement and charity partnerships
• Entrepreneurship and small business growth
• Santa Rosa Beach and Walton County development
• Future plans for Lawless Coast Brewing Company

Follow Lawless Coast Brewing Company:
Instagram: @lawless.coast.brewing
Facebook: Lawless Coast Brewing Company

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In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with John Frankman, former U.S. Army Green Beret, veteran advocate, and Republican candidate for Florida's 1st Congressional District.

John shares his journey from military service and Special Forces training to entering the political arena after being affected by the military COVID-19 vaccine mandate. He discusses the challenges of becoming a Green Beret, his faith-driven leadership philosophy, and why he believes Florida's most veteran-dense congressional district needs stronger representation in Washington.

Topics covered include:

• John Frankman's military background and path to the Green Berets
• Life in Northwest Florida and why he chose to make the Panhandle home
• The impact of federal government expansion and constitutional concerns
• Veterans' healthcare and the push for a VA hospital in the region
• Government spending, inflation, and affordability challenges
• Medical freedom and accountability in government
• Congressional term limits and stock trading reform
• Infrastructure, military readiness, and transportation priorities
• Campaigning as a grassroots challenger against an incumbent candidate
• The role of faith, service, and leadership in public office

Whether you're a voter in Florida's 1st Congressional District or simply interested in military service, public policy, and grassroots politics, this conversation provides an in-depth look at the issues shaping the future of Northwest Florida.

🎙️ Listen now to hear John Frankman's vision for veterans, freedom, accountability, and conservative leadership in Congress.

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In this episode of the Panhandle Pulse Podcast, host Chuck Asbury welcomes entrepreneur and wellness lifestyle coach Jody Morgan for an inspiring conversation about gut health, functional medicine, clean living, and holistic wellness. Jody shares her personal journey after her daughter’s health crisis led her to discover root-cause healing, lifestyle changes, supplements, and nutrition strategies that transformed her family’s health.

From gluten sensitivity and inflammation to probiotics, supplements, mental wellness, and toxin-free living, this episode dives deep into practical ways people can improve their health naturally. Jody also discusses the importance of community on Florida’s Emerald Coast, navigating modern health challenges, and why proactive wellness matters more than ever.

If you’re interested in functional medicine, healthy living, gut healing, or making small lifestyle changes that create lasting results, this episode is packed with valuable insights and real-life experiences.

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In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Buzz Conroy, founder of North Bay Cigars. Buzz shares his journey from his very first cigar after a concert to mastering the Cuban rolling technique and building a thriving live cigar rolling business across the Florida Panhandle.

Learn how boutique cigars are crafted, why live cigar rolling has become a standout experience for weddings, bachelor parties, and private events, and what sets this growing niche apart. Buzz also breaks down beginner-friendly cigar tips—from choosing the right blend and flavor profile to properly storing cigars in a humidor.

Whether you’re new to cigars or a longtime enthusiast, this episode dives into the culture, craftsmanship, and community behind cigars—plus a look ahead at plans for a future cigar lounge in Northwest Florida.

Follow and connect with North Bay Cigars:
• Website: northbaycigar.com
• Instagram: @northbaycigar
• Facebook: North Bay Cigar

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Palm Folly Founder Meaghan Easterhouse on Building a Craft Hard Seltzer Brand on Florida’s Emerald Coast | Panhandle Pulse Podcast

Podcast Description:
In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck sits down with Meaghan Easterhouse, founder of Palm Folly, a fast-growing craft hard seltzer brand born on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Meaghan shares her unconventional journey from military upbringing and global travels to nursing, nonprofit work, and ultimately launching her own beverage company.

Hear how she went all-in on entrepreneurship—despite having zero brewing experience—to create a unique, fruit-forward, draft-ready hard seltzer designed to elevate the category. Meaghan opens up about the real challenges behind building a brand: closing her brick-and-mortar taproom, navigating distribution, finding the right production partners, and learning tough lessons along the way.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a local business owner, or just curious about the craft beverage industry, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice.

Follow Palm Folly on Instagram and stay tuned for new flavor releases as the brand continues to expand across Florida and beyond.

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What does the future of Florida look like? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Paul Renner—former Speaker of the Florida House, Navy veteran, and current GOP candidate for governor—to break it all down.

Renner shares his background growing up in Jacksonville, his 20-year military career, and the leadership lessons he learned serving in both the Gulf War and Afghanistan. From there, we dive into his run for governor and what sets him apart from other candidates.

We cover major issues facing Florida today, including:

• His plan to eliminate property taxes for most homeowners
• Solutions to rising insurance costs
• Fixing housing affordability and out-of-state investment pressures
• Infrastructure challenges across the Panhandle
• The role of AI, data centers, and protecting kids online

Renner also discusses his “Florida First” approach, focusing on economic growth, small businesses, and keeping the state affordable while managing rapid population growth.

Whether you're a Florida resident, business owner, or just following the governor’s race, this episode gives you a clear look at the policies and priorities shaping the state’s future.

https://voterenner.com/

https://www.instagram.com/paulmrenner/

https://www.facebook.com/RepPaulRenner

https://x.com/Paul_Renner

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In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Tony Carder, a seasoned entrepreneur who previously built and sold one of the top pest control companies in Georgia before starting a new venture, TruNorth Pest Control, right here in Florida.

Tony dives into what really fueled his success—not just smart business decisions, but a strong emphasis on relationships, exceptional customer service, faith, leadership, and deep community involvement. Now based along the Emerald Coast, he’s applying those same principles to grow his new company while building a meaningful life in the Panhandle.

This episode also explores:

• How Tony approached scaling and eventually selling his first company
• His perspective on business acquisitions and long-term growth
• The importance of mentoring young people and developing future leaders
• What it takes to build a brand from the ground up in a competitive market

It’s a great listen if you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or someone interested in the culture and growth of the 30A and Emerald Coast area.

https://trunorthpest.com/

https://www.facebook.com/trunorthpest/

https://www.instagram.com/trunorth.pest/

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In this episode of Pan Handle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with storyteller, marketer, and creator Kerri Parker—the voice behind Hwy 331—to explore how powerful storytelling can shape and uplift a community.

Kerri shares her unique journey from corporate marketing with iconic South Walton brands to building a grassroots media platform that bridges the gap between the north and south sides of Walton County. With a passion for highlighting overlooked communities like DeFuniak Springs and Freeport, she created Hwy 331 as a digital hub featuring stories, podcasts, and local insights that celebrate the people and culture of the Florida Panhandle.

The conversation dives deep into her evolution as a creator—from launching a podcast to stepping far outside her comfort zone to produce her first short documentary, The Lake That Built a Town. With no prior filmmaking experience and only 90 days to complete the project, Kerri reveals the challenges, self-doubt, and “delusional confidence” it took to bring the story of Lake DeFuniak to life.

Chuck and Kerri also discuss:

• The importance of storytelling in building emotional connections within a community
• How Hwy 331 is reshaping the narrative beyond the 30A spotlight
• Lessons learned from podcasting, branding, and content creation
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and rebuilding confidence later in life
• Preserving local history for future generations through film and media
• The real behind-the-scenes work of running a podcast and media brand
• Why community pride and positive storytelling matter now more than ever

Kerri also shares insights on supporting local creators, getting started with your own podcast or documentary, and why consistency—not perfection—is the key to success.

Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about the Florida Panhandle, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a powerful reminder of how stories can connect, preserve, and transform a community.

🎧 Tune in to hear how one idea—bridging a highway—turned into a movement of storytelling, filmmaking, and local impact.

https://hwy331.com/

https://www.instagram.com/hwy.331?igsh=MTQ1cW04OHpweXI1cA==

The Lake That Built a Town: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33ZRuyrEK8c

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In this powerful episode of Panhandle Pulse, Derek Asher opens up about his raw journey from a troubled past in California—marked by jail time, addiction, and setbacks—to rebuilding his life through faith, resilience, and creativity. Now a barber and entrepreneur on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Derek shares how skateboarding shaped his mindset, how he turned a viral haircut into community impact, and what it takes to start over with purpose.

Discover how he built his brand as the “Skateboarding Barber,” navigated failures, and found meaning through giving back, mentoring youth, and creating authentic connections. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone chasing growth, second chances, and a better future.

Derrick Asher Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskateboardingbarber?igsh=MWlmNXRlM3FucTd6dQ==

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In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with local real estate broker Ron Hefner to talk about what makes Florida’s Emerald Coast one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

From the white-sand beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, and Destin, to the growing communities around the bay, Ron shares firsthand insight into the real estate market, lifestyle, and the rapid growth happening across the Florida Panhandle.

Ron also shares his unique origin story — how breaking up a bar argument at the famous Red Bar in Grayton Beachunexpectedly led him into a 15-year real estate career that’s helped hundreds of buyers relocate to the area.

In this conversation, they discuss:

• Why so many people are relocating from the Midwest and major cities
• The unique lifestyle of living along Florida’s Emerald Coast
• Real estate trends in Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Freeport, and Destin
• The difference between rental communities and full-time neighborhoods
• What buyers need to know about Florida insurance and hurricane preparedness
• The future of development and housing affordability in the Panhandle
• Hidden local gems, restaurants, and outdoor activities
• The truth about living near the beach year-round

They also dive into how the area has evolved from a vacation destination into a thriving year-round community with growing schools, infrastructure, and family life.

Whether you're thinking about moving to Florida, investing in beach real estate, or simply love the lifestyle of the Gulf Coast, this episode provides an inside look at the opportunities and challenges shaping the Florida Panhandle today.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living near crystal-clear water and sugar-white sand, this conversation will give you a realistic perspective on what life here is really like.

Connect with Ron: https://linktr.ee/RonHefner?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=4e6e5fd2-16e1-4a9f-be92-fbed935f5181

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