After a tumultuous year in politics, what does 2026 hold? We get the political prognostications of attorney and analyst Chris Hand. From the housing affordability crisis to the regulation of AI, legislative infighting and a possible Florida redistricting battle that could reshape the midterm elections — and national politics for years to come — we explore the pitstops and potholes on the road ahead. We also ask the former chief of staff for his take on the bombshell profile of Presidential Chief of Staff Susie Wiles in Vanity Fair.

Guest: Chris Hand, attorney, local government expert and author of America, the Owner's Manual

Then, legendary jazz trumpeter, composer and Jacksonville native Charles Tolliver prepares to play his first ever concert in his hometown. We ask what took him so long — and explore the lasting impact of his work on the city’s jazz scene.

Guests:

• Charles Tolliver, jazz trumpeter and composer 
• John Lumpkin, jazz artist, educator and leader of the JL Institute Big Band

And, celebrating the spirit of the season in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. We preview LaVilla in Lights, which features live music, local vendors and an outdoor screening of the film This Christmas. The evening kicks off at 4 p.m. with live jazz performed by Akia Uwanda at Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park at 120 Lee St. in LaVilla.

Guests:

• Carla Mechele Jones, Vibrant Places Collective facilitator
• Trey Ford, Vibrant Places Collective activator, founder of Florida Fish Pepper Co.
• Charmion Thrasher, Vibrant Places Collective member, operations