In episode 137, Garrett sits down with Michael Joyce, the founder of Emoto Supply Co., to talk about the future of mobility in Tampa. From acquiring the U.S. assets of Swedish e-bike brand Cake to launching a new kind of retail hub for electric bikes and mopeds, Michael shares how Emoto is reshaping transportation in the city. They dive into Tampa’s bike infrastructure problems, the changing regulations, and what it will take to make alternative transit a real option in Florida’s car-centric culture. This is a conversation about innovation, risk, and what it means to bet on a better way to move.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:15:03 - Bike Infrastructure

0:34:34 - Buying an E-Bike0:39:42 - Regulations

0:58:13 - Saving Time with an E-Bike

1:17:22 - Spoke Stories Podcast

In episode 136, Garrett sits down with Florida State Senator Jay Collins, a decorated U.S. Army Green Beret and Purple Heart recipient who served over two decades in Special Forces, including five years after losing his leg in combat. Jay shares the harrowing story of nearly dying in Afghanistan, the resilience that led him back to active duty, and how his experiences on the battlefield shaped his mission to serve in public office. From leading troops in war zones to leading legislative efforts in Florida, Jay discusses the values that drive him, the lessons learned through adversity, and why he believes real leadership means putting others first. This is a powerful conversation about courage, service, and the fight to make a difference at home.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:05:49 - Losing your leg

0:18:17 - Operation BBQ Relief

0:23:44 - Becoming a politician

1:08:46 - Transportation

1:43:14 - Property Tax

In episode 135, Garrett sits down with Ron Weaver, a legend in Tampa’s legal and development world, to unpack his 50-year career in land use law. They discuss the evolution of Tampa’s skyline, the laws that shaped it, and the massive opportunities still ahead. From fast-tracked skyscrapers to missed chances at a Central Park-style green space, Ron shares insider stories and bold ideas for what Tampa needs next. They also explore how AI, public-private partnerships, and walkable urban design could define the city’s next chapter. This episode is a must-watch for anyone invested in Tampa’s growth.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:04:45 - Gen Z

0:07:03 - U.S. Politics

0:08:44 - Ron Weaver Background

0:18:50 - Technology and Human Connection

0:32:35 - Tampa Land Use in the 80’s

0:38:20 - Land Use Law Today

0:43:35 - Regions Building

0:46:45 - Future Downtown Tampa Planning

0:50:33 - The Importance of City Owned Land

0:54:28 - How to build a vibrant urban core

In Episode 134, Garrett Greco sits down with Joe Collier, president of Mainsail Lodging & Development, for a deep dive into Tampa’s hospitality scene and the story behind the Epicurean Hotel’s unique partnership with Bern’s Steak House. They discuss the city’s planned $80 million stormwater tunnel through Howard Avenue, why it’s raising concerns for local businesses, and an alternative approach that could protect both the neighborhood and the bay. Collier also shares his journey from dishwasher to private island resort owner, complete with pirate history, a poisonous tree massacre, and his daughter’s upcoming wedding on the island.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:12:35 - Howard Stormwater Project

0:29:40 - The Fenway

0:39:07 - Getting Started In Hospitality

0:47:43 - Hospitality Industry Impact on Tampa

1:01:26 - Boutique vs. Corporate Hotels

1:07:04 - Scrub Island

In episode 133 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Melissa Zornitta, Executive Director of the Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission, to break down the new comprehensive plan for the City of Tampa. They explore how land use, transit, and housing policy are being reshaped to meet future growth, why neighborhoods like South Tampa and Rattlesnake Point are so controversial, and how the plan balances walkability, affordability, and resiliency. From density bonuses to the tension between local and regional control, this episode covers what’s next for Tampa’s development and why these decisions matter for every resident.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:09:00 - Tampa City Planning

0:20:46 - Developer Incentives

0:32:45 - Tampa Bay Regional Planning

0:40:20 - Current Planning Commission Projects

0:49:14 - Comprehensive Plan vs. Land Development Code

0:57:40 - New Comprehensive Plan

In episode 132 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with returning guest Jason Marlow to unpack some of Tampa’s most pressing political issues from the overlooked crisis in Sulphur Springs to the 60 million South Howard flood relief project. They explore the tension between development and gentrification, how community voices can shape city decisions, and why local government boards hold more power than most people realize. With city council clips, historical context, and real policy debates, this episode offers a deep dive into the real workings of Tampa politics and what’s at stake for its future.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:02:32 - Getting Involved

0:12:19 - Sulfur Springs

0:48:55 - South Howard Flooding Relief Project

1:05:10 - HART Financial Trouble

1:28:59 - City of Tampa Staff Issues

In episode 131 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Van Ayres, Superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools, and Robinson High School senior Nate Clement. This dynamic conversation bridges the gap between policy and student experience as they discuss everything from school safety and artificial intelligence to class sizes, extracurriculars, and the challenges of modern education. They cover the district’s growth, the reality behind teacher pay, the importance of student voice, and what it takes to prepare students for both college and career. It’s a rare inside look at the nation's 7th largest school district.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:12:52 - Setting Up Students for Success

0:16:13 - Student Safety

0:25:06 - Technology in Schools

0:40:45 - Growth Management 

0:50:15 - Federal and State Funding

0:58:05 - Hillsborough County School District Property

In episode 130, Garrett sits down with Darryl Shaw, the developer behind one of Tampa’s largest urban redevelopment projects: Gasworx. Known for co-founding BluePearl Veterinary and now revitalizing Ybor City, Darryl shares how his decades-long vision is transforming vacant lots into a walkable, connected, and culturally vibrant district. They discuss the history of the Gasworx site, the failed Rays stadium deal, the importance of the streetcar system, the role of public parks, and why small businesses matter as much as big investments. This episode is a deep dive into what it takes to reshape a city block by block—and why it’s not just about profits, but purpose.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:02:18 - Hotel Haya

0:05:33 - Activating Ybor

0:07:27 - Daryl Shaw

0:15:51 - Veterinary Business

0:20:25 - Acquiring Ybor Property

0:36:03 - Revitalizing Ybor

0:51:25 - Gasworx

1:00:46 - The Rays in Ybor

1:08:14 - Gasworx Continued

In episode 129 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Michael Maurino, the Executive Director of the Westshore Alliance, to unpack the bold and ambitious future of one of Tampa’s most important and underappreciated districts. They discuss Westshore’s unique zoning advantages, the massive redevelopment potential of WestShore Plaza, and how the district could become Tampa’s most walkable, transit-friendly hub. From the River to Bay Greenway plan and the Howard Frankland Trail to complete streets, buried utilities, and murals that bring identity to neighborhoods, this conversation covers it all. Michael also dives into Tampa’s transportation challenges, regional trail connections, and what it would take for residents to thrive without owning a car. Whether you’re a policymaker, developer, or Tampa resident, this episode reveals what’s next.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:05:41 - Rejected Westshore Multifamily Project

0:14:28 - Infrastructure Issues

0:27:56 - Connecting Tampa Neighborhoods

0:41:43 - Westshore Mall Redevelopment

1:02:22 - Corporations Moving to Tampa

1:11:55 - More People Are Choosing To Walk

1:24:23 - Westshore Mall Redevelopment Continued

1:38:04 - River to Bay Greenway

In episode 128 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Hoyt Prindle and Jason Marlow to unpack the urgent infrastructure and transit challenges facing Tampa. From billion-dollar sidewalk deficits and the underfunded HART transit system to the false promises of freeway expansions, this episode explores how poor planning and political resistance are threatening the region’s long-term livability. They discuss the economics of sprawl, why induced demand is real, and what it would take to make Tampa walkable, connected, and future-ready. With passionate takes on policy, urban design, and local leadership, this two-hour deep dive is a must-listen for anyone invested in Tampa’s growth... or frustrated by its traffic.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:04:05 - All For Transportation

0:14:22 - Ending CRA’s

0:18:27 - Ending Property Tax

0:25:48 - Transportation Costs

0:36:15 - The Future of Tampa