Tampa Bay Developer

In episode 140, Garrett sits down with Harry Cohen, Hillsborough County Commissioner, for a candid conversation about Tampa Bay’s future. They unpack why the region’s explosive growth is outpacing infrastructure, how the collapse of the All for Transportation tax initiative set the area back a generation, and what it will take to build a transit system that actually works. From the political tug-of-war between urban and suburban priorities to the struggle over funding ferries, roads, and rail, Cohen offers an insider’s perspective on why big solutions keep slipping away and where hope still lies for progress. Whether you care about traffic, development, or the future of the city you call home, this discussion will give you plenty to think about.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:14:22 - Hillsborough County Growth

0:28:32 - Why Transportation Initiatives Are Stalling

0:39:57 - Sunshine Law

0:47:34 - Transportation Continued

1:11:15 - Sports Stadiums

1:18:13 - Being a Politician

1:24:05 - Airport and Transportation

1:39:36 - Incorporation

In episode 139, Garrett sits down with Joe Citro for an unfiltered conversation about Tampa’s future and the forces shaping it. They unpack why affordable housing is nearly impossible without reliable public transit, explore the tension between regional collaboration and protecting Tampa’s voice, and share candid stories about the pressures facing city staff. From the decline of neighborhood trust to the debate over property taxes and the revival of streetcars, this episode connects past and present to imagine what it will take to build a healthier, more connected city. Whether you care about housing, transportation, or civic culture, you’ll find plenty to think about.

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:02:50 - Why Tampa is great

0:12:54 - Using the CSX railroad

0:20:51 - The future of transit in Tampa

0:46:12 - Parking Issues

0:53:51 - Hillsborough County Politics 

1:10:15 - Gasworx

1:29:31 - Ashley Drive Redevelopment 

1:43:00 - Ybor Harbor

2:00:11 - What would Joe change in Tampa?

2:16:38 - Insurance 

In episode 138, Garrett sits down with Donald Phillips, real estate developer and the founder of Woody’s Wash Shack, to unpack the life experiences that shaped him as a person and an entrepreneur. Donald opens up about losing his father in a plane crash at age 14, the lessons he learned watching his mother hold the family together, and the mindset he developed to never work for anyone else again. From building his first companies to launching Woody’s Wash Shack as a family-driven, community-oriented brand, this conversation is about more than business. It’s about values, identity, and building something meaningful that lasts. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a parent, or just someone trying to find purpose, this one hits deep.

0:00:00 - Introduction 

0:18:38 - Why Start Woodies?

0:25:00 - Importance of Branding

0:39:36 - Confronting Opposition 

0:53:37 - Selfless Service 

1:07:46 - The Woodie Wagon

1:16:58 - Customer Experience 

1:39:33 - Hiring Employees 

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