TOKI Talk: A Podcast From The Town of Kiawah Island

TOKI Talk - S1 Ep 2  - On this episode, WCSC-TV 5 Anchor/Reporter Meredith Blair introduces us to Mayor Brad Belt, who was sworn into office in April 2024. Tune in to learn about his background, as well as hear updates on key development projects and important issues on the island.

TOKI Talk - S1 Ep 1 - Welcome to our brand new podcast TOKI Talk.  In this episode Town Council Member Michael Heidingsfelder introduces us to Chief Ryan Kunitzer of the St Johns Fire Department.  We will learn about his background as a firefighter and about the St Johns Fire Depart's role in protecting the residents of Kiawah Island and the surrounding communities.

In this episode, Council Member Brad Belt and Council Member Russell Berner speak with John Zlogar about his work with the Johns Island Advocate and the Johns Island Task Force, as well as his views on local development topics and how the community can stay engaged in these processes.

In this episode, Council Member Brad Belt speaks with Retired Deputy Chief Jackie Stanley of the St. John's Fire Department (STJFD) about his career and personal life, how the island and fire department have changed over the years, and his plans for retirement. 

In February, Stanley was recognized for his 43 years of dedicated service by Town Council and February 6, 2024, was proclaimed "Deputy Chief Jackie Stanley Day" in his honor. He is the STJFD's first African American deputy chief.

In this episode, Mayor Pro-Tempore Michael Heidingsfelder speaks with Town Administrator Stephanie Tillerson about Stephanie’s background, her work at the Town, how the island has changed over time, and her thoughts on future work of the Town. 

In this episode, Mayor Pro-Tempore Michael Heidingsfelder speaks with KICA Board Director Kevin Donlon about the KICA/TOKI ARB Work Group, the release of the Phase 2 Report, and the work to come. 

Read the Phase 2 Report and learn more here 

In this episode, Mayor Pro-Tem Michael Heidingsfelder speaks with Marsh Management Work Group Member and Planning Commission Member Madeleine Kaye, as well as the Town’s Planning Director John Taylor about the marsh management on the island, the efforts of the work group, and how this management is continuing to protect this valuable ecosystem.

Marsh Management Practices at Work in Oceanwoods
Read about how the neighborhood’s driveway replacement helps with drainage and supporting the island’s marsh. Click here to read KICA's article.

In this episode, Council Member Russell Berner speaks with Turtle Patrol Permit Holder Lynne Sager and Turtle Patrol Volunteers Cindy Lockhart and Becky Krantz about the significance of Turtle Patrol’s work, their favorite experiences while volunteering, and how others can get involved.

In this episode, Council Member Brad Belt speaks with Dr. Tonya Matthews, President and CEO of the International African American Museum (IAAM). Belt and Matthews discuss Matthews’ background and accomplishments; the rich history and stories that the IAAM tells, including those of the Lowcountry Gullah Geechee; and what you can expect when visiting at this sacred place. 
 
IAAM is a new museum to Charleston and tells the unvarnished stories of the African American experience across generations, the trauma and triumph that gave rise to a resilient people. Learn more about the museum: https://iaamuseum.org/

In this episode, Council Member Michael Heidingsfelder speaks with Andell Inn Owner Don Semmler about Don’s background, the history and future of the inn, and his insights on how the island has changed over time.