Best Sunshine State Seekers Podcasts (2024)

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Picnic & Paddle Growing Community and Keeping Florida's Waterways Clean 41:48

5h ago41:48

41:48

Send us a text This week's guests are the folks at Picnic and Paddle who organize clean-up efforts around Florida's waterways. Yet the clean-up is only part of the experience, it is also about experiencing Florida's natural wonders as refreshments and a community aspect are a part of the event as well. They can be found at: https://www.facebook.com…

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Sunshine State Shenanigans: Amusing myths, half truths, and tales. 32:40

6d ago32:40

32:40

Send us a text In this week's episode, the Madcaps discuss some of the different myths, tales, and beliefs that we have encountered and question them. From zig-zagging to save yourself from charging gators to why everything around St Augustine is named Matanzas we delve into what is abnormal about the normal. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews ar…

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Southwest Florida Gems Fakahatchee Strand & Collier Seminole State Parks 33:57

13d ago33:57

33:57

Send us a text This week the Florida Madcaps discuss parks in the southwest corner of Florida focusing on Fakahatchee Strand State Park and Collier-Seminole State Park. There are some unique hiking experiences as well as opportunities to enjoy some iconic Florida flora and fauna to enjoy in this area from Ghost Orchids to the Florida Panther. Pleas…

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Venomous Snakes in Florida: What you need to know when enjoying the outdoors! 41:28

23d ago41:28

41:28

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss various aspects of recreating in Florida and encounters with venomous snakes. Our special guest, Bree, shares important information about our valuable snake population. Bree can be found at @hiberniahistory and @using.my.outside.voice on Instagram. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciate…

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Near Miss! The Almost Developed Florida State Parks along 30A. 29:00

27d ago29:00

29:00

Send us a text With the withdrawal of the development plans for the nine state parks in the very recent rearview, the Madcaps discuss the parks that were threatened around 30A, mainly Topsail Hill and Grayton Beach and what makes them special. Our guest this week is Celest Cobena with Beach to Bay Inc., who talks about the history and natural majes…

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Crisis in Florida State Parks 43:23

1M ago43:23

43:23

Send us a text Just a few days ago plans to develop a few Florida State Parks were uncovered and made public. The plans where uncharacteristic of the Florida State Park mission of resource based recreation. Massive hotels, golf courses, pickleball courts, and more were planned and in some circumstances would drastically alter some of the park's hab…

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Florida's Carnivorous Plants and their Habitats 27:44

1M ago27:44

27:44

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the various carnivorous plants in our state and some of the environments they thrive in. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Questions and co…

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Central Florida State Parks: Hillsborough River & Colt Creek! 28:42

2M ago28:42

28:42

Send us a text If you want beautiful views of the rapids of the Hillsborough River and CCC construction or amazing hiking near the Green Swamp you can find plenty to do at both of these state parks and they are less than half an hour from each other. This week the Madcaps discuss their experiences at these Central Florida state parks. Please subscr…

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Gatekeeping Florida's Natural Areas: Helping or Hurting? 41:20

2M ago41:20

41:20

Send us a text This week the Madcaps have a special guest, Imani to discuss whether gatekeeping benefits Florida's natural areas. With Florida surpassing a population of 23 million and the boost in post-pandemic popularity of springs, beaches, and trails many are upset with the condition that they are in and place social media as the culprit. This …

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Myakka River State Park: History, Wildlife, and Miles of Trails 32:03

2M ago32:03

32:03

Send us a text This week the Florida Madcaps discuss what can be expected when visiting Myakka River State Park. This park has it all: CCC history, gators, birding, trails, and wetlands. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://w…

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Cruising through Florida and Beyond with Michael Haffner of JustPotus 2:16:03

2M ago2:16:03

2:16:03

Michael joins us to talk about his first cruise line experience with Virgin Voyages and his favorite aspects of the trip, getting the Magic back at Disneyland and becoming Magic Key holders, Orlando and Tampa food spots including the hot Japanese food scene, and of course Chewie, his and Genesis adorable Shihpoo and his adorable adventures at Dogto…

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Clean ups, how you can make a difference in Florida's natural areas! 34:20

2M ago34:20

34:20

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the importance of clean-ups and the events that they have participated in. There are a variety of organizations that host clean-up events, or you can do it solo while you you spend time in nature. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Co…

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The Real Estate Rundown with Trevor Brown of Trevorbrown407: Getting in depth about Orlando’s local real estate, the importance of Social Media Marketing, Local History, and Favorite Spots 1:23:55

3M ago1:23:55

1:23:55

Fannie Hillman’s Trevor Brown of Trevorbrown407 dives into Orlando’s vibrant real estate market. He talks about his craziest listings, little-known local facts, and the crucial role social media marketing plays in real estate success. We also talk about Winter Park History, landmarks, and spots around town. For those plugged into the Orlando creato…

1
Northeast Florida State Forest Adventures 31:00

3M ago31:00

31:00

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss some of the state forests in Northeast Florida and some of the recreation opportunities in each one. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Ques…

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All things Orlando with Yali and Miguel: Lesser Known Theme Park Experiences and new additions, the Blue Man Group comeback, Venardo’s Circus, and Shrek Raves 1:53:13

3M ago1:53:13

1:53:13

Join us as we explore the lesser-known theme park experiences in Disney Parks and talk about the newest additions to Universal Orlando. We also dive into the comeback of Blue Man Group to Icon Park Orlando, Drawn to Life, Venardo’s Circus residency, silent discos, and Shrek raves with guests Yali and Miguel.…

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An Introduction to Exploring Caves In Florida with the Florida Speleological Society 30:13

3M ago30:13

30:13

Send us a text This week the Madcaps have Fletcher Jacob, the president of the Florida Speleological Society (FSS) discuss the basics of caving in Florida. More info on the FSS can be found at, https://www.floridacaving.com/ Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up…

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The Unstoppable Alexis Lete and her Multifaceted Journey as Miss Indiana, Professional Modeling, artist, and time in the WWE 1:34:10

3M ago1:34:10

1:34:10

Alexis Lete otherwise known as “Lete” joins the pod and talks about her life journey. A woman of many talents, she was the longest reigning Miss Indiana, placed in Miss USA, is an artist with a business called “Figuring it Out Art,” and a former WWE wrestler. She shares the challenges she’s overcome in her journey, what she’s learned and regrets, a…

1
Cedar Key: Recreation, History, and Food 25:13

3M ago25:13

25:13

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss Cedar Key. This episode covers the history, food, and unparalleled beauty that make Cedar Key one of the amazing destinations of Florida. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.f…

1
Summer Hiking & Outdoor Safety 2024 Update 30:42

3M ago30:42

30:42

Send us a text This is our first reposted episode! Almost a year ago we published this summer hiking & recreating safety episode and decided to republish it due to the relevance that it has this month with the multiple heat warnings that have been issued so far. It has been slightly modified for your listening pleasure. Please subscribe! Shares and…

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Magical Moments: Disney and Foodie Do’s, Dont’s, Tips and Tricks featuring Kristen Wright (Down Main Street) from The Kingdom Krew 1:45:12

3M ago1:45:12

1:45:12

In this episode, Kristen Wright (Down Main Street) from the Kingdom Krew joins us and talks about the best and worst food, experiences, and hotels at the Disney Parks including the underrated Hoop Dee Doo Revue to the breathtaking nighttime firework boat experience. We also discuss the infamous brawls at the Mouse, Kristen’s top celebrity pick, and…

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Indian River Lagoon, History, Recreation, and Environmental Challenges 38:20

4M ago38:20

38:20

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss some of the public lands that make up Indian River Lagoon as well as the recreational opportunities that exist there. No episode would be complete without the discussion of the environmental challenges that exist from the past to the present. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get…

1
Exploring the Sunshine State with Samantha Longton: How she got her start, top Central Florida date spots, Hemorrhoid Cream Beauty Hacks, and what spots are smash or pass 1:40:13

4M ago1:40:13

1:40:13

We are joined by Samantha Longton, who shares her creator journey and where she is today, the Central Florida dating scene, and her favorite dating spots that she *doesn't go to on repeat*, spots in Orlando that are smash or pass, the unknown Hemorrhoid Cream Beauty Hack, a true IG vs Reality moment from last year, and much more!…

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How Hurricanes Can Impact Your Recreation Plans 27:52

4M ago27:52

27:52

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the various aspects of how hurricanes can impact recreation in Florida from trail closures to coastal geographic changes. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscou…

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All about 407 Kevin: The Dating in Central Florida Series and Comedy Origin Stories, Dating Habits, and The List 1:28:40

4M ago1:28:40

1:28:40

In this NSFW episode, we ask the hard-hitting questions everyone wants to know about Kevin Deane, also known as 407 Kevin. We learn how he got his start in comedy and how the Dating in Central Florida series originated, the inside jokes that are sprinkled in his videos for his buddies, his dating and hookup habits, and his mostly spot-on impression…

1
The Madcaps Favorite Florida Roadside Oddities 30:09

4M ago30:09

30:09

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the roadside oddities that they have discovered, often quite by accident, as they have road-tripped around Florida. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.o…

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Melo cut the Queso: Melo Cocina’s Diego talks Arepas, Gallbladders, and Hidden Gems 1:03:47

4M ago1:03:47

1:03:47

We are excited to welcome Diego from Melo Cocina who talks about the rivalry between Colombian and Venezuela arepas, what popular chain he associates with his gallbladder surgery, things to do in Mount Dora, and Leesburg’s speakeasies. Brace yourself for the shocking UCF Board of Trustee drama and how far someone went because their dog wasn’t allow…

1
The Madcaps Outdoor Summer Recreating Tips 33:25

4M ago33:25

33:25

Send us a text While summer brings some fantastic recreating weather, it also brings crowds to our outdoor spaces. This week the Madcaps discuss how they navigate recreating in Florida's natural areas during the peak season. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up…

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Keeping up with Gideon’s and the Chain Restaurant Bankruptcy Drama, to close or not to close? 1:06:24

4M ago1:06:24

1:06:24

It seems like no matter what Gideon’s founder Steve Lewis puts out to defend his business, Ghosts of Gideon’s is quick to clap back and it’s…a lot. We hold still in our opinions that we are Team Gideon’s but want to give the latest updates. Also, we talk about the Red Lobster shuddering the doors of many of its stores, our new favorite spots (Retro…

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Split Oak: Florida Conservation Land Under Seige 32:40

4M ago32:40

32:40

Send us a text This week the Madcaps were treated to a hike through Split Oak Forest with the President of the Friends of Split Oak Forest, Valerie Anderson. Afterwards, we recorded an episode right at Split Oak and Valerie outlined the current struggle to protect a conservation property that was originally set aside for Gopher Tortoise Habitat to …

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Gideon’s Bakehouse vs Ghosts of Gideon’s: The Demand Letter, Pay and Safety concerns, and a PR nightmare 1:51:32

5M ago1:51:32

1:51:32

We all know Gideon’s Bakehouse is the beloved local cookie spot of Orlando, but what REALLY went down at the Disney Springs location? We dive into that demand letter, what we consider valid and ridiculous complaints, and how we really feel over the “can’t ask” policy and the letter as a whole.By Lauren and Katie

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West Central Florida State Parks 31:42

5M ago31:42

31:42

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss their favorite parks and hiking destinations that are in West Central Florida from scrub to Native American mounds, the Madcaps discuss a few parks in this area. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs a…

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Best and Worst Italian Restaurants in Orlando and Unique Orlando Experiences We Love and Want To Try 53:26

5M ago53:26

53:26

Join us as we talk about our Best and Worst Italian Restaurant experiences, from our favorites North Italia and SoDough Square to our all-around bad time at Bar Italia. We also go down memory lane with the Fazoli's and Pizza Hut Report Card nostalgia along with spots such as F&D Woodfired Kitchen, Mia's Italian Kitchen, Armando's, and Christini's, …

1
Endless Variety: Exploring Florida's Habitats 31:26

5M ago31:26

31:26

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss some of Florida's amazing habitats, from the limestone trails of the Florida Keys, to the ancient dunes of Lake Wales Ridge, we talk about many different habitats of Florida and what makes them special. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Spri…

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Halfway to Halloween Part 2: Central Florida’s Haunted History 36:13

5M ago36:13

36:13

In this surprise 2nd episode, we talk about the Haunted Room 206 at Super 8, the I4 dead zone and why spirits are thought to remain there, and the longest FBI shootout in history, which happened in Ocala, FL! Today you can even visit this house yourself. This week’s Florida Man series also gets a little messy.…

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Halfway to Halloween: Our Favorite Halloween Experiences, HHN House Predictions, and Local Paranormal Happenings 1:19:11

5M ago1:19:11

1:19:11

Halfway to Halloween: Our Favorite Florida Halloween Experiences" dives into the spine-chilling world of Halloween in Florida, exploring the state's unique and thrilling experiences. Join us as we discuss our favorite haunted attractions, delve into predictions for Universal's Halloween Horror Nights houses, and share personal and local paranormal …

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The ‘Hell on the Yard’ insider tea, Tijuana Flats Bankrupcy, Taylor Swift’s Florida!!!, and mysterious armed carjacking 1:17:25

5M ago1:17:25

1:17:25

What REALLY went down at Hall on the Yard? Our friend and fellow Orlando influencer Tom Egan joins us to give us the insider scoop about his time there. We also discuss the recent TFlats closing and bankruptcy announcement, Taylor Swift putting Florida!!! on the map, and a chilling armed carjacking that was caught on camera. Lastly, listen to our n…

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Paddle Guides Kim and Ashley discuss the Wild and Scenic waterways of Central Florida 34:15

5M ago34:15

34:15

Send us a text This week we were fortunate enough to have Kim and Ashley join us who do tours on one of the two designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida the Wekiva River (including Rock Springs Run and The Emerald Cut). This week we listen to some of the fascinating aspects of the river and some of the more interesting events that they have obs…

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Welcome to Orlando: Drug Fronts, Drama and its Culinary Delights 49:29

5M ago49:29

49:29

In this podcast, we unravel the hidden layers of the city, from secret drug fronts masquerading as ordinary businesses to the drama that has happened recently. Join us as we uncover Orlando's unique blend of intrigue, scandal, and culinary experiences that define this dynamic city, with some personal stories built in. Get ready for our first chaoti…

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Wakulla Springs State Park 30:23

5M ago30:23

30:23

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the fascinating state park. Wakulla Springs! The spring, trails, boat tours, and elegant lodge were all discussed. Check out the park website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/WakullaSprings Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council…

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Natural areas to visit around Tallahassee 28:41

6M ago28:41

28:41

Send us a text In this episode, the Madcaps share their favorite natural areas that they have visited around Tallahassee. Here are a few points that we discussed: Lake Talquin State Park https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lake-talquin-state-park Lake Talquin State Forest https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forest…

1
Recreating around Osceola National Forest 29:06

6M ago29:06

29:06

Send us a text This week the Madcaps talk about the Florida National Scenic Trail through Osceola National Forest as well as state and county recreation areas. We discuss history, natural features such as waterfalls, and hiking along the St Mary's River. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Flori…

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Florida Legislative Session Wrap up and Budget Review 43:00

6M ago43:00

43:00

Send us a text This week the Madcaps welcome back Ryan Smart, executive director of the Florida Springs Council. We discuss the various bills that we covered in previous podcasts and what their fate was during this session. Ryan Smart also guides us through the budget that is being sent to the governor for signing including how funding for Florida'…

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Gopher Games a Documentary About the Plight of the Gopher Tortoise. 28:26

6M ago28:26

28:26

Send us a text This week the Madcaps talk with Brent Fannin the director of Gopher Games, a documentary highlighting the plight of the vanishing gopher tortoise population in Florida. This week we discuss how loose regulations and aggressive development is causing habitat loss for the venerable gopher tortoise. Film Premier (free admission) is on S…

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Crystal River: Springs, History, and Adventure 28:03

7M ago28:03

28:03

Send us a text In this week's episode, we discuss Crystal River, Florida. There is plenty to do from visiting springs, hiking, Native American historical sites, and much more. Info regarding manatees at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/CrystalRiverTearsheet16.pdf Crystal River Preserve State …

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Mermaids, Manatees, and a Hippo. Homosassa & Weeki Wachee Springs 30:30

7M ago30:30

30:30

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss two very well-known springs in Florida. Weeki Wachee and Homosassa Springs. Both springs were once Florida attractions before being acquired by the state. Now they still function yet with a more conservation-minded experience. Homosassa Springs (home of Lu the Hippo) https://www.floridastateparks.org/par…

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Snakes, Gators, and Bears! Oh My! What to consider when encountering intimidating wildlife in Florida. 33:18

7M ago33:18

33:18

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss some of the wildlife that may have notorious reputations yet are not as harmful as they may seem. Snakes, gators, bears, and more are discussed this week by the Madcaps who have encountered them all in the wild. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Flo…

1
Florida Family Adventures with the Sunshine State Seekers 33:07

7M ago33:07

33:07

Send us a text This week we enjoy the perspective of Florida outdoor adventures from the entire Sunshine State Seeker family. They discuss adventures that are suitable for all family members as well as some tips on how to make them enjoyable for everyone. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Flor…

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2024 Florida Legislative Session Environmental Update Episode 46:40

8M ago46:40

46:40

Send us a text This week the Florida Madcaps welcome back Ryan Smart, Executive Director at the Florida Springs Council to discuss the 2024 Florida Legislative Session so far as it has just passed the halfway point. We discuss bills affecting our springs, Florida Wildlife Corridor, Black Bears, single-use plastics, and much more. This year we are c…

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Backcountry Camping in Florida 34:00

8M ago34:00

34:00

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the basics of backcountry camping in Florida. From the fundamentals to our favorite spots, we have you covered! Some of the agencies in Florida that offer primitive or backcountry camping are: Florida Forest Service https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/State-Forest-Recreation?g…

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Florida's Freedom Fighters: The History of Fort Mose and Prospect Bluff 27:33

8M ago27:33

27:33

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss two sites in Florida that have a significant historical significance, particularly with those that were seeking freedom from slavery and oppression. Fort Mose located in St Augustine https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-mose-historic-state-park Prospect Bluff is located North of Apalac…

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