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Meet Kendra Bergman, marine biologist and founder of Coastal Connections, who's passionate about protecting the endangered sea turtles of Vero Beach.

From a chance childhood encounter with a green turtle in Hawaii to establishing a thriving conservation organization, Kendra's journey reveals how dedication and community involvement can create remarkable change. She shares the incredible success story of green turtles on the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, where annual nests have exploded from just 50 to an astonishing 20,000 in recent decades.

Discover why sea turtles are essential keystone species. Their unique biology creates connections between ocean ecosystems and land habitats that countless other species depend on. These ancient mariners, which take 20-25 years to reach reproductive maturity, transport nutrients across oceans, fertilize dune systems with nitrogen, and provide critical food sources for commercially important fish.

What began as a grassroots effort has transformed into an organization with dedicated volunteers responding to sea turtle emergencies throughout Indian River County. Kendra emphasizes that conservation success happens when individual actions multiply across an entire community. When everyone makes small changes, the collective impact becomes tremendous.

Be sure to join us for part two as we dive deeper into sea turtle conservation, exploring the meaning behind those colored ribbons marking nests on our beaches and learning more about how you can participate in protecting these magnificent creatures for generations to come. Have you spotted a sea turtle during your beach visit? Share your experience in the comments!

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Finding your tribe in a new city can be one of life's greatest challenges, especially for adults. When Danielle moved to Vero Beach, leaving behind her tight-knit friend group in Westfield, she discovered firsthand how challenging it can be to build new social connections, particularly for women. While men had golf clubs and fishing spots to forge friendships, women's traditional gathering spaces, such as nail salons, rarely facilitated meaningful conversations.

This social gap became the inspiration behind REsistance, Vero Beach's innovative fitness studio, which is transforming how newcomers and locals alike build community. More than just a place to work out, REsistance serves as a vibrant social hub where relationships flourish naturally through shared experiences. Danielle's vision extends beyond the studio walls through creative partnerships with local businesses, monthly coffee socials with Pepper and Salt Market, wine tastings, and collaborations with local artisans, such as The Soap House, creating multiple touchpoints for authentic connection throughout Vero Beach.

For those nervous about taking their first class, Danielle offers reassuring wisdom: "Be nervous, it's okay. But the nervousness is telling me you're excited." This philosophy of embracing vulnerability while creating a judgment-free space has quickly made REsistance a beloved fixture in Vero Beach's rapidly evolving landscape. Looking ahead, Danielle aspires to expand to additional locations while empowering a new generation of fitness instructors by sharing her expertise openly. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply seeking meaningful connections in a new hometown, REsistance offers that rare combination of physical wellness and social belonging, transforming strangers into friends. Ready to experience it yourself? Book your free first class at resistancevb.com or through their app.

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Ever wondered what makes a boutique fitness studio truly special? Danielle, owner of REsistance Fitness Studio in Vero Beach, pulls back the curtain on creating a fitness experience that goes beyond just workouts.

Dive into REsistance's creative "Christmas in July" programming, where holiday cheer meets fitness goals through themed spin classes like "Ho Ho Ho and a Bottle of Wine" and strength classes focused on building the perfect "backside" (aptly dubbed "Merry FitmAss"). This isn't just holiday fun, it's a thoughtful approach to keeping members engaged and excited about their fitness journey without the stress that often accompanies the actual holiday season.

What truly stands out is Danielle's refreshing philosophy on balance. "Depression comes in all shapes and sizes, and people in the best shape of their life are not immune," she shares, challenging the fitness industry's tendency to promote restriction and guilt. Instead, she encourages finding deeper meaning in movement beyond just burning calories. "There needs to be more when it comes to fitness. Like, why are you moving your body?" This perspective creates a studio culture where enjoying tacos and drinks with friends isn't undermining your fitness, it's part of a well-lived life.

The boutique difference at REsistance is evident in every detail, from bathrooms stocked with forgotten essentials like hair ties and deodorant, to personalized attention for members of all fitness levels. Unlike franchise operations with corporate guidelines, this independently owned studio reflects its owner's personality and vision, right down to the inspiring quote in the cycle room written in Danielle's mother's handwriting: "Your mental strength is your power."

Ready to experience fitness that celebrates balance and connection? Start with REsistance's free first class offer and discover why boutique fitness might be exactly what your wellness journey needs.

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What happens when you blend psychology, creativity, and fitness expertise into one dynamic space? Danielle Kireyczyk, founder of REsistance Fitness Studio in Vero Beach, joins us to share her remarkable journey from Massachusetts fitness instructor to Florida studio owner.

Remember that intimidating feeling of walking into a fitness class for the first time? Danielle has built her entire business around eliminating that barrier. "My goal is to make that room look different," she explains, rejecting the stereotype of identical-looking participants in favor of genuine diversity in age, background, and ability. The darkened spin room, personalized outreach, and focus on connection before correction create an environment where newcomers can truly thrive.

Danielle's path wasn't always clear. From trying countless sports as a youth without finding her niche, to discovering her love for fitness instruction, to an unexpected email termination that became the catalyst for starting her own studio, her story demonstrates how setbacks often lead to our greatest opportunities. "I wouldn't have been in such a good place if I didn't have such a support system around," she reflects, highlighting the importance of community in entrepreneurial journeys.

What truly sets REsistance apart is Danielle's philosophy that mental wellness trumps physical appearance. "I don't need you to walk around with six packs, knowing you have depression. I'd rather you have happiness and a belly full of yummy food and hard work." This refreshing approach permeates everything from instructor training to class structure to the studio's welcoming atmosphere.

Ready to experience fitness in a whole new way? Visit REsistance at 725 8th Street in Vero Beach for a free introductory class, where you'll discover that the most important resistance isn't on the bike, it's pushing back against fitness stereotypes that don't serve our well-being.

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What makes a community truly special? In this heartwarming conversation with Danielle, founder of the influential Vero Beach Neighborhood® group, we discuss the magic that sets Vero Beach apart from other coastal towns.

Danielle paints a vivid picture of Vero as "stepping back in time," a place where mom-and-pop businesses still thrive alongside chains, creating an ecosystem of local commerce and genuine connection. With over 74,000 members in her online community, she's witnessed countless examples of neighbors helping neighbors, from an elderly resident with a broken AC unit receiving immediate assistance to community members rallying around families in need.

The conversation dives into the delicate balance of preserving "Old Florida" charm while welcoming newcomers who are drawn to Vero's unique character. As Danielle wisely notes, inclusion rather than exclusion is the key to maintaining what makes the area special. "The world's largest Mayberry" requires both preservation and growth to maintain its special essence.

We explore the importance of supporting local businesses, giving grace before leaving reviews, and how making an effort to try different establishments enriches the community experience. Danielle's perspective on building community both online and in person offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to strengthen the fabric of where they live.

Her faith-driven approach to running VBN reveals the heart behind this digital town square that has become a trusted information source and connection point for residents. Her commitment to truth and community service over metrics or growth demonstrates why the group has become such a vital part of Vero Beach life and the neighbors that live here.

What would your community look like if neighbors truly looked out for each other? Listen in and be inspired to cultivate connection wherever you call home.

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Stepping behind the digital curtain of Vero Beach Neighborhood (VBN), the Facebook group that connects 74,000 local residents, reveals an astonishing commitment to community stewardship. Danielle, the driving force behind this thriving online space, shares the raw realities of her 4am wake-ups and the manual processing of thousands of posts and comments each month.

"The workload, the manual amounts of work... There's less that can be automated with how I have it set up," Danielle explains, detailing her daily routine of monitoring content for hours before dawn, hosting a radio program, managing her store, and overseeing a marketing company. This isn't a passing commitment, it's approximately 4,000 posts and between 50,000-70,000 comments monthly, each requiring human review for accuracy and appropriateness.

What distinguishes VBN from countless other online communities is its unwavering commitment to truth. Every video submitted undergoes multiple reviews, sometimes taking triple the video length to properly vet. Danielle maintains vital relationships with local law enforcement agencies and businesses to verify information, creating an accountability ecosystem rarely seen in social media spaces. When asked about her advice for aspiring community builders, her candid response speaks volumes: "Absolutely do not do that." Yet for those determined to pursue similar paths, she emphasizes intellectual property protection, assembling a diverse team, and preparing for unexpected challenges. Most importantly, she advocates for patience,what appears to outsiders as an overnight success represents years of "heartache, crying, yelling, planning, work, and financial investment."

Ready to discover more about building authentic community connections? Follow the Vero Beach Podcast and leave a review to help others find these valuable conversations about local businesses and neighborhood relationships.

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What happens when a simple Facebook group transforms into the digital heartbeat of an entire community? Meet Danielle Wynkoop, the creator of Vero Beach Neighborhood® (VBN) - a 74,000-member strong online community that's become an essential part of life in this Florida coastal town.

From her sun-drenched VBN Beach Shop and Gifts store, Danielle shares how what began as a "dumping ground" for miscellaneous questions eight years ago has evolved into a powerful force for connection, inside jokes, and community support. With disarming honesty, she reveals the unexpected journey from casual group admin to full-time community leader: "VBN doesn't sleep, so I don't really sleep."

The magic of VBN lives in its unique cultural touchstones, from the completely fictional "Corn Snake Festival" (supposedly held on the non-existent June 31st) to the infamous "Joyce's Dock" incident that rallied the community. These shared experiences transform online interactions into genuine community bonds, especially for newcomers seeking to understand their new hometown.

Perhaps most remarkable is VBN's real-world impact, including annual Christmas giveaways totaling $20,000 from local businesses. Through it all, Danielle remains focused on her mission to "keep Vero Vero" while welcoming newcomers, preserving community character while embracing growth.

Whether you're fascinated by the power of digital communities or simply curious about what makes Vero Beach special, this conversation offers a heartwarming glimpse into how online connections can strengthen real-world community bonds. Subscribe now for part two, where we'll explore the day-to-day operations behind this remarkable digital phenomenon.

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Ever wondered if that nagging hip pain might be connected to something else? Or why healthcare often feels so disconnected from our real lives? Ashley from Breeze Pelvic Health joins us to transform how we think about our bodies and healthcare delivery.

Ashley takes us behind the scenes of her mobile pelvic floor physical therapy practice, where she literally carries a 50-pound treatment table to clients' homes to create safe, comfortable healing environments. This approach removes barriers for patients dealing with sensitive health issues, allowing them to receive specialized care without the anxiety of clinical settings. Her thoughtful consideration extends to maintaining appropriate boundaries too.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Ashley explains her "whole person approach" to treatment. Did you know jaw dysfunction often correlates with pelvic floor issues? Or that ankle injuries can impact pelvic health through shared nerve pathways? These surprising connections highlight why treating isolated symptoms often fails to provide lasting relief. Ashley's comprehensive perspective helps patients understand their bodies as integrated systems rather than disconnected parts.

Statistics reveal that pelvic floor dysfunction affects one in four women and one in six men, yet remains largely undiscussed. Ashley treats conditions ranging from urinary incontinence to sexual dysfunction, testicular pain, and postpartum recovery. Beyond her clinical practice, she's deeply committed to education, serving as a teaching assistant with Herman and Wallace and conducting community workshops in Vero Beach.

As a recent transplant from Orlando's hectic environment, Ashley shares her appreciation for Vero Beach's welcoming community and more relaxed pace. Her journey represents the intersection of innovative healthcare, entrepreneurship, and community connection. Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or simply curious about holistic approaches to wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how our bodies work and how healthcare can better serve our needs.

Connect with Ashley at [email protected] or visit BreezePelvicHealth.com to learn more about her services and approach to pelvic health.

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Taboo topics and awkward silences have no place in healthcare, especially when they prevent us from addressing issues that affect our daily lives and wellbeing. That's what makes this conversation with Ashley Murray, founder of Breeze Pelvic Health, so refreshingly important.

Ashley demystifies pelvic floor therapy with clarity and compassion, explaining that her work goes far beyond the simplified "just do Kegels" advice many people receive. She treats urinary and bowel issues, sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain, and helps people through pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Most importantly, she normalizes these conversations, making it clear that pelvic floor dysfunction affects people of all genders and ages.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn when Ashley shares her personal journey. As a college athlete who experienced urinary issues in her late teens, she initially had no idea pelvic floor therapy existed. This firsthand experience now allows her to connect authentically with clients who feel isolated by their symptoms. Her mobile practice brings specialized care directly to people's homes, removing barriers to treatment while allowing her newly established business to grow organically.

If you've ever experienced "leaking" during exercise, felt constant urgency, or dealt with pelvic discomfort, this episode offers validation and hope. Pelvic floor issues aren't just "something to live with"—they're treatable conditions that respond to specialized physical therapy. Join us as we break the silence surrounding this crucial aspect of health and explore why proper pelvic floor function is essential for everyone. Find Ashley at breezepelvichealth.com or on Instagram @breezepelvichealth to continue this essential conversation.

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In Part Three, we'll dive into the heart and soul of Walking Tree Brewery with founders Mike and Brooke as they unpack their powerful mission statement: "Staying rooted in practice, promise, and people." This candid conversation reveals how a personal art project evolved into an iconic brewery logo, and why mangrove roots perfectly symbolize their commitment to community strength.

What happens when business ideals meet operational realities? Mike and Brooke share refreshingly honest insights about the challenges of local sourcing at brewery scale. While they'd love to use exclusively Florida-grown ingredients, they explain why sometimes it's simply not sustainable. Instead, they've found creative alternatives for community impact, from hosting nonprofit fundraisers to amplifying environmental messages about protecting Florida's fragile lagoon ecosystems.

You'll discover how Walking Tree has become a melting pot where submarine officers, seasonal visitors, and longtime locals connect over craft beer. Through their journey, Mike (a Fort Pierce native) and Brooke (a self-proclaimed "mountain person" who surprisingly loves shoveling snow) have developed a deep appreciation for Vero Beach's unique character. Their story proves that authentic purpose and deep community roots are the perfect recipe for business success. Want to experience more local business stories like this? Be sure to leave us a review and subscribe to the Vero Beach podcast!

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