Podcast D.Friel - Connected by Water

A mutual friend of ours introduced Elmer to me as a “Healer”. After this episode, I’d agree but also like to add “Giver”. What Elmer does for the community both on and off the water is simply amazing. Previously competing in the X-Games; Elmer now splits his time as a Physical Therapist Assistant and Backcountry Guide. The stories around Elmer’s start in fly-fishing followed by what he believes to be his life’s purpose is amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed this episode and look forward to more conversations. 

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As tradition, this is our yearly Papa’s Pilar episode. It’s always a a party in the studio and this time I shared the table with an all star crew. Bouncer Smith, Karl Anderson, Steve Groth, and Trista Evan’s took this episode to the next level. In typical fashion, the rum was flowing and the exchange of ideas and stories was at an all time high. Most importantly, we talk about the key values of Papa’s Pilar and what Steve’s personal mission is for our South Florida Reefs. Pour yourself a glass and tune in.

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To sit across from Jeff and Bouncer was nothing short of an industry history lesson. Jeff was a founding member of Bonefish Tarpon Trust and has been a steward of our flats fishing industry globally for over 25 years. The stories that were shared of Florida’s early Tarpon and Bonefish will leave you scratching your head. Today, the mission of BTT involves using science to better understand our ecosystem, spawning habits, and conservations methods for the future. I look forward to more episodes with both Jeff and Bouncer as we couldn’t fit all the information into one! 

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Charlie Levine and I have known each other for years. The parallels we share from his perspective as a writer and mine an artist always bring great conversation. Charlie has worked for publishing companies that have covered all sides of the fishing industry. Brining a wealth of knowledge and having two buddies connect is a big reason we do this show. I may even admit I got a bit of the freshwater fishing bug after a day with Charlie. Enjoy! 

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It was an absolute pleasure getting to know Ben Hicks. A local photographer with a studio in Boca Raton, Ben is best known for his above and below water ocean photography. We spoke about his upbringing and connection the ocean and dove deep to his perceptive on having a balanced life. Be on the look out for Ben’s content on the new Disney+ series “America’s National Parks”. Ben’s documentation of sea turtles and the mullet run is not something you want to miss. 

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As regulars on the show, Paul Castronovo and George Poveromo need no introductions. It was my goal to have a “Who’s More Italian?” episode and we did just that. Paul and George both discuss their South Florida roots and “Italian experiences”. While no longer a South Florida resident, we also had legend Bouncer Smith call in to share his thoughts on the matter. Pour one up and enjoy!

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This is somewhat of a pilot episode as we look to partner with Karl Anderson and his Legends Series project. A legend himself, Karl and I discuss the greats and what it takes to be a legend in the fishing industry. In traditional fashion, a bottle of the sherry cask was polished off during the episode and the jokes were flowing. I always enjoy when Karl comes to the studio and look forward to future episodes! 

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After receiving a grant to begin working on aquatic vegetation programs all over the state, I had to bring John and Beau on the show. These two gentleman are experts in the space and I got quite the lesson in speaking with them this week. We learn about Florida’s ecosystem and the steps needed to ensure a healthy environment while also experiencing mass development. Prior to this episode, I thought I understood the benefits of seagrass but had no idea of all the uses and how it can change our waterways. 

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This week we take a step back from the normal #ConnectedByWater talk and get ready for our 2022 NFL Season. On this episode we are joined by our favorite duo Skip Dana and Art Sapp along with Jim Ruback. Skip brings the facts, Jim cooks the food and Art supplies the laughs as we talk all things Dolphins. We invite you to sit down and listen to a group of die hard fins fans give their opinion on the season as we prepare to enter the roller coaster the NFL season has to offer! 

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While these episodes usually focus on our local tournament scene, this episode had nothing of the sort. This episode was a home grown conversation of the gang getting back together. We talk about Art’s recent visions, Skip’s alter ego and field random questions from the audience. Karlene is back behind the bar slinging jokes and stiff rum drinks. Enjoy your local legends chopping it up at the studio. 

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