Award-winning author Laurel McHargue lives and laughs and podcasts and writes in the breathtaking elevation of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. Follow her on her website @ www.laurelmchargue.com and listen to her narrations of nonfiction on "Alligator Preserves" and dark fiction on "Dark Ebb." email her @ laurel@strackpress.com
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Hello. My name is Ty Whitman and I feel absolutely blessed to be living in the Tampa area. Although I have spent some time in the northern part of the state, I’m relatively new the Tampa area. I really can’t wait to begin to explore this amazing area, to learn more about it, to learn its history, and to meet it’s people. I’d like to invite you along on that journey with me. My goal is to do that and share that exploring and learning, as well as my love of the area, with you. I hope you find ...
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Episode 152: Jodi Bowersox, Renaissance Woman
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Award-winning author Jodi Bowersox does it all, from acting to sewing to painting to publication...and more!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 151: Peter Eschbach presents West Point Traditions
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Author/artist Peter Eschbach discusses the creation of his book about West Point Traditions, complete with his artwork and submitted memories from hundreds of graduates of the Long Gray Line!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 150: Keith Steinbaum's "In Lieu of Flowers"
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Keith Steinbaum has delivered another supernatural thriller: "In Lieu of Flowers" will take readers beyond the grave. Visit with the author in this enlightening interview!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 149: Frank Demith's Book is "Of Vital Interest"
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Retired Army LTC Frank Demith discusses "Of Vital Interest," his 2023 Best Military Book designation from the International Impact Book Awards! We also talk about leadership and West Point.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 148: Cheryl Ilov is The Reluctant Ninja!
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The decision to overcome her doctor's "chronic pain patient" diagnosis started Cheryl Ilov on a decades-long adventure into the world of martial arts . . . a world in which she continues to reign as her sensei's first female black belt.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 147: Santos CS Bermejo's Seven Modern Fables
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Author/Philosopher Santos CS Bermejo discusses his seven modern fables and why observation and storytelling are important.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 146: Annie Dawid, Cults and "Paradise Undone"
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Author Annie Dawid discusses cults and the creation of her novel "Paradise Undone: A Novel of Jonestown."By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 145: Author Spirit Ricks Discusses the Virtuous Life
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Spirit Ricks, author of "A Woman's Guide to a Virtuous Man and a Man's Guide to Virtue," talks about what he has learned, how he has grown, and how others can become the individuals they are meant to be.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 144: Thomas K. Carpenter, Contemporary Fantasy Best-Seller!
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Best-Selling Contemporary Fantasy Author Thomas K. Carpenter has created over 60 magical novels and a cooperative strategy card game based on his epic world! He shares his successes and learning experiences in this fun interview.By Laurel McHargue
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A complex story drawn from personal experience, Kathy Taylor's novel "The Birthing House" explores identity through loss, love, and language. Readers will travel far from home with the protagonist--Clare--and will be challenged by the different cultures she learns to embrace.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 142: Miriam Green Talks About Hamas Attack on 7 October
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Miriam Green, author of "The Lost Kitchen: Reflections and Recipes from an Alzheimer's Caregiver," discusses what happened on October 7th when Hamas terrorists attacked Israel.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 141: "Let's Talk About Sex" with Dr. Heather England
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43:09
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Dr. Heather England discusses her new GREAT SEX PODCAST and how she is helping partners explore ways to improve their sex lives.By Laurel McHargue
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Debut award-winning author Cam Torrens dips from his experiences in the military and in Search and Rescue to write "STABLE," a grippingly suspenseful novel, the first in a series.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 139: Savannah J Tully--Poet, Nature Lover, Humanitarian
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Debut poet Savannah J Tully's first collection--"Six Tall Trees"--will move and inspire you!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 138: Mark Shaiken, Renaissance Man!
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56:47
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Denver author Mark Shaiken has a unique legal thriller series based on his 41 years as a commercial bankruptcy lawyer. We talk about the third book in the series--"Unfair Discrimination"--and Mark's life doing many unusual jobs, and he give writing tips. Check out his fabulous photography!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 137: Johnny Worthen's Epic Worlds!
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Award-winning, tie-dye wearing, epic sci-fi author Johnny Worthen entertains with stories in his Coronam series, writing tips, and other multi-genre discussions!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 136: Cozy Murder Mystery Authors Visit Laurel McHargue
1:02:24
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Cozy murder mystery authors Judilee Butler and GaGa Gabardi have created a cozy murder mystery series set in the mountains of Colorado. Hear how they've worked together to create these fun books.By Laurel McHargue
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David L. Robbins and "Isaac's Beacon"
1:22:15
1:22:15
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New York Times Best-Selling Author David L. Robbins discusses the creation of the State of Israel in his epic novel "Isaac's Beacon" with author and podcast host Laurel McHargue.By Laurel McHargue
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Darlene Kulig is as effervescent as her artwork. Her paintings are joyous and bold, her personality is warm, grounded, generous, and fun.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 133: Bonding with Orcas and Other Adventures with Robert Williscroft
48:35
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Author/adventurer Robert G. Williscroft will entertain you with stories of his exciting and surprising adventures in this wonderful interview!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 132: Kathleen Kaska's "Murder at the Menger"
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Multiple award-winning author Kathleen Kaska's new "cozy" murder mystery "Murder at the Menger" is sure to entertain you! Listen to my interview of this author here!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 131: Matthew Meagher's "Irish Town"
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46:00
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Matthew J Meagher has won multiple awards for his debut novel "Irish Town," a story of struggle and angst and love and sacrifice and choosing sides.By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 130: Michael Kilman, Eclectic Creator!
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Michael Kilman: award-winning author, anthropologist, poet, filmmaker, artist, teacher . . . all-around knowledgeable creator! Enjoy this fascinating and informative interview!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 129: SASQUATCH ALERT with author L.V. Ditchkus
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You'll want to know how award-winning author L.V. Ditchkus represents Bigfoot and the whole Sasquatch community in her unique 4-book series starting with Crimes of the Sasquatch! A fun and informative interview with great tips for writers!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 128: Saralyn Richard's "Bad Blood Sisters"
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Award-winning murder mystery author Saralyn Richard talks about her new book, "Bad Blood Sisters," and lots more!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 127: Award-Winning Young Author Henry Dodson
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Young award-winning author Henry Dodson reads his psychological thriller "The Trees" and talks about his inspiration.By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #25 – Towers, Trails, Alligators and Tampa Population Growth
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1:17:31
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We’ve got a lot of ground to cover today! We’re gonna expand on last month’s talk about observation towers in the Tampa area, and answer the question, “were they wrong about their stated heights”. We’re gonna share some absolutely incredible facts about alligators. We’re gonna have a conversation about population growth in the Tampa area with “ever…
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Episode 126_MK Sturdevant and the Leadville Miners Strike!
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Award-winning author and editor MK (Molly) Sturdevant discusses the miners strike of 1896 in Leadville, Colorado, her writing process, and being a Writer in Residence at Elsewhere Studios in Paonia, CO!By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #24 – The Florida Conservation and Technology Center
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Many people may have heard of the Manatee Viewing Center, but today we are going to talk about The Florida Conservation and Technology Center, a new co-op between Tampa Electric, The Florida Aquarium, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the University of Florida, which includes the Manatee Viewing Center. They are doing a lot…
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Episode 125: Meet Author and Humorist TH Leatherman
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TH Leatherman writes rollicking space opera sci-fi AND funny "Dad jokes," puns, and one-liners! FInd out how his brain works in this enjoyable episode!By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #23 – Weedon Island, Sunken Gardens vs Florida Botanical Gardens, Gulf Beaches HIstory Museum, and Other Attractions Around the St. Petersburg Pier
1:19:24
1:19:24
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Today we are going to have some fun in the St. Petersburg area. We will go hiking and kayaking at Weedon Island Preserve. We will visit Sunken Gardens and compare it with the Florida Botanical Garden. We will investigate some St. Pete Beach history by visiting the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum and the St. Petersburg Museum of History. We will have…
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Episode 124: Author Kathy Taylor, Tree Whisperer!
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45:16
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Author Kathy Taylor has compiled a collections of 13 stunning stories about people from different cultures and the trees that share their roots with them.By Laurel McHargue
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Today we are bringing Luke Rorech on the show to talk about St. Petersburg. Luke is a realtor who was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area, and whose office is located in St. Petersburg. We’re gonna talk about what makes it such a special place to live, and the best neighborhoods to buy in. We’re gonna talk about some of the best places to stay on…
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An unexpected trip to North Carolina's Outer Banks for a reunion of West Point women provides much to ponder!By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #21 – Brooker Creek Preserve, Florida Botanical Gardens, Heritage Village, and Clearwater Beach
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1:10:15
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The title pretty much says it all. Today we are going to briefly talk about some things going on in my life since the last episode. Then we will discuss adventures at the Brooker Creek Preserve, Florida Botanical Gardens, Heritage Village, and a glorious evening walking down Clearwater Beach. Also included: I think they REALLY mean “no dogs”, the i…
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Episode 122: Meet Awesome Aussie Author Adam Jones!
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56:14
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Adam Jones, co-author of the new knowledge compilation "The Sh*t They Never Taught You: What You Can Learn From Books," entertains us with his journey to self-awareness!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 121: Todd Fahnestock's Epic Adventures!
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53:43
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By the time you get to the end of this interview with this prolific, entertaining, award-winning author, you'll want to read all of his books!By Laurel McHargue
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Episode 120: Meet Horror Author & Screen Writer Scott Thomas
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Award-winning horror author and TV/Movie screen writer Scott Thomas talks about the craft of writing for screen and for the bookshelf! He talks about his technique, the impact of the horror genre, and lots more.By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #20 – Eleven Reasons NOT to Move to Tampa
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I’ve lived in the Tampa Bay area for a year now and I think it’s an awesome place. I’m really happy that I moved here. However, just as anywhere does, it has it’s flaws. Although they may not be a deal breaker for me, they definitely could be for someone else. So, in the interest of giving anyone thinking about moving here a well rounded opinion, t…
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ETF #19 – Tropical Storm Elsa, Lightning Win Back to Back Stanley Cups, and Tampa Riverwalk Attractions
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The title pretty much says it all. Today we are going to talk about tropical storm Elsa and how the news totally blew it out of proportion, for the most part. We are going to talk about the Tampa Bay Lightning winning back to back Stanley Cups. We are going to talk about Amalie Arena and my first ever trip to Tampa, and along with that we are going…
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ETF #18 – The Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Florida Aquarium
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1:32:02
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In this episode we are going to talk about the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Florida Aquarium, two huge visitor attractions in the Tampa area. I’ve got some good news and some bad news related to them. One is a “can’t miss” and the other is a definite “skip it”.By Exploring Tampa Florida... and Beyond
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ETF #17 – Tampa Talk: Busch Gardens, Disk Golf Update, Moving to Florida, Drum Circles, and more…
1:11:40
1:11:40
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Pam is joining me on the show today for a discussion about several things. We discuss our first trip to Busch Gardens, Tampa, an important disk golf update, her move to Florida, drum circles, and a lot of other really fun topics. Also included: Crying while stalking Steven King, Don’t molest the alligators, Don’t tangle with a hyena, Roller coaster…
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ETF #16 – Tampa Area Zoos, and Animal Sanctuaries
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58:09
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Today we are going to take a detailed look at several of the area’s zoos and animal sanctuaries. We are going to review ZooTampa, the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary, and the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary. I’m going to talk about why I was not able to check out either Busch Gardens, or Big Cat Rescue. I’m also going to share a near deadly experience with a …
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Disc golf is an awesome way to get out of the house and spend a fun day in the sun, either with friends or zenning out by yourself, and it’s practically free to play. When I first moved here, I couldn’t help but notice that the Tampa area has A LOT of disc golf courses, so I set out a goal to play them all. Some were really good, and some were real…
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Episode 117: Meet Author and Publisher Kelly Lynn Colby!
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Award-winning author and "Cursed Dragon Ship" Publisher Kelly Lynn Colby entertains and informs in this fun interview about her work, her inspiration, and her writing tips!By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #14 – Disney Parks Around the World
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1:28:32
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There are six locations for Disney parks around the world: Anaheim, Orlando (Not technically, but generally speaking… We cover that today.), Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Today, I am super excited to bring on Carol, a lifelong friend who has visited every Disneyland Park, and also every Disney theme park around the world. We have an awesom…
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ETF #13 – Purchasing Real Estate in Tampa, Pt 2 – Sinkholes, Flooding, and Hurricanes
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53:12
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(The above image shows a massive sinkhole which continues to form after being filled in, alongside a major road in Pasco County last month.) In this second part of our series on purchasing real estate in Tampa, we tackle the depressing but very serious subjects of sinkholes, floods and hurricanes. We jump into how sinkholes are formed, why the area…
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Episode 115: Kathleen Kaska Knows Sherlock Holmes
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Award-winning multi-genre author Kathleen Kaska entertains with her knowledge of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's character Sherlock Holmes! "The Sherlock Holmes Quiz Book" is one of three "triviographies" Kaska has published in addition to her murder mysteries and fun detective series.By Laurel McHargue
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ETF #12 – Super Bowl 55 Comes to Tampa Bay
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53:34
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are playing the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55, and the big game is happening right here in Tampa. In this episode we are going to discuss the run up to the Super Bowl, the incredible fan experiences downtown, and all the pre-game excitement that has been buzzing around town this week. The bulk of the fan activities ta…
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ETF #11 – Purchasing Real Estate in Tampa, Pt 1 – Where to Live
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For anyone looking to purchase near Tampa or move into the area, this honest, non-selling conversation is a must listen. John and I bring two separate viewpoints to the table, one of a newcomer and one of a seasoned Tampa area vet, and we spend the show discussing the pros and cons of living in a multitude of different areas covering seven counties…
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