On this episode of Unlocking Tampa Bay, we celebrate Black History Month with two of Tampa Bay's treasures who are creating history of their own! First, we talk with CJ Thompson, the owner of Booze & Bubbles, a luxury bartending company, who started her journey as an epidemiologist. Yep, you read that right! Hear how she took a leap of faith and went from just 100 followers to brunchin' with the wives of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers! She dives into the details of her experience as a business owner and her views on being a Black and women-owned business in the city of Tampa. CJ and her bus, Boozy, are rolling up to any event you need! We then continue our conversation with Fred Hearns, the Curator of Black History at the Tampa Bay History Center. Fred delves deep into the rich, Black history of Tampa Bay and how he helps tell that story through his vital role at the Tampa Bay History Center. Fred then touches on his own personal experience growing up, his experience while at USF when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, and the positive changes Tampa Bay has seen over time when it comes to Black culture. Tune in to this episode of Unlocking Tampa Bay wherever you find your podcasts!

Welcome to season three of Unlocking Tampa Bay, where we unlock the doors and dive into behind-the-scenes conversations to bring you the inside scoop! To kick off this year, we're exploring unique ways to get out and stay active in Tampa Bay! We have everything from state parks to chickens in diapers who do yoga- yes, you read that right! Join Natalie Wolfe, Lifestyle Director at Hotel Haya, and the brains behind the Chicken Yoga programming, along with Colleen McHenry, owner of the Yoga Loft Tampa, as they chat about unique ways to cater to your health and well-being.

Step into the magic of the holidays with Visit Tampa Bay's Unlock Tampa Bay podcast and uncover holiday happenings across our city. Unwrap the secrets of Peterbrooke Chocolatier with Jennifer Hill, who explains the artistry behind those delightful chocolates and why they make the perfect gift. Later, join Rachel Radawec from Tampa’s Downtown Partnership, one of the many who created Winter Village, and discover the enchanting local shops, dazzling light shows, and ice skating in the heart of downtown. Whether you're a local seeking new traditions or a visitor eager for Tampa Bay's holiday warmth, this episode is your guide to a season filled with joy, laughter, and moments to remember.

From the world of innovative fear to heart-pounding thrills, discover Tampa Bay’s most wickedly tantalizing events in this special series of podcasts dedicated to Halloween. Our first stop brings us up close with Scott Swenson, the mastermind behind the Vault of Souls, as he unveils the art of crafting 'an evening of elegant fear.' We continue our ghoulish adventure with Brad Tucker, entertainment specialist at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, who shares the passion and excitement that fuels Howl-O-Scream Tampa.

In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, join us for a special episode that delves into the rich cultural tapestry of Hispanic heritage in Tampa Bay. We are thrilled to be joined by two remarkable guests who have played pivotal roles in preserving and promoting their Hispanic heritage through their respective family businesses. First, we sit down with Patrick Manteiga, the esteemed editor and publisher of La Gaceta Newspaper, a true beacon of Hispanic heritage in America. We also had the pleasure of chatting with Copeland Moré, fourth-generation owner of La Segunda Bakery located in the heart of Historic Ybor City. This episode is a tribute to the vibrant culture of Hispanic heritage, and we can't wait to share it with you during this special month of recognition.

This month, Visit Tampa Bay immerses itself in the Tampa Bay arts and culture scene. On this episode of Unlocking Tampa Bay, we hear from the founder of the Tampa City Ballet, Paula Nunez, to discuss her passion for the arts and her journey in opening the Tampa City Ballet. We also hear from Michele Smith, Executive Director for the Tampa Arts Alliance, about the organization’s organic development and continuous efforts to spotlight the vigorous arts scene in the destination! See how the arts community collaborates to create authentic connections within Tampa Bay.

This month we are celebrating Disability Pride Month! On

Take a bite of history and discover the delicious tastes of the destination as we unveil Tampa Bay's culinary journey. On this episode of Unlocking Tampa Bay, we speak with Jeff Houck, VP of Marketing for the 1905 Family of Restaurants, discussing the variety of Tampa Bay's gastronomic history. We then speak to culinary trailblazer Chef John Fraser, founder of JF Restaurants and chef of the MICHELIN-Starred restaurant, Lilac, located in The Tampa EDITION. Learn about the MICHELIN Guide to Florida and how Tampa's food scene has evolved.

It’s May, and we’re celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week in Tampa Bay! On this episode of Unlocking Tampa Bay, we sit down with two of downtown Tampa’s game-changers. Hear from Crystal Rivera, General Manager at the iconic Floridan Palace Hotel, where a new $30M renovation will breathe new life into the historic hotel. Then, meet MaryBeth Williams, Executive Director of Friends of the Riverwalk, the team behind some of your favorite events along the Tampa Riverwalk that include Riverfest, the Riverwalk Trick or Treat, and even holiday boat parades!

Visit Tampa Bay celebrates Earth Day and Earth Month by diving deeper into Tampa Bay’s sustainability and conservation efforts with local partners. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Cynthia Stringfield, SVP of Animal Health, Conservation & Education at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and Melissa Dude, Volunteer Program Manager at The Florida Aquarium.