Florida Matters

An interesting mix of convos on "Florida Matters Live & Local." We roam from free rides and student loan changes to safety tips and a local queen hitting the national stage.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Learn more about an investigation into Medicaid money used by the DeSantis administration to fight a pair of amendments. Also, meet the new history center CEO and pick up some giving inspiration.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

From debates on energy and environmental risks to rescued books, basketball legends, and college football thrills, "Florida Matters Live & Local" celebrates curiosity, community and local stories.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Sky Lebron is the guest host on "Live & Local," with segments on USF's new man in charge, faith congregations' reaction to violence, a couple who loves Florida's parks and front-lawn food production.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," hear 23 years of radio insight from WUSF's outgoing leader, JoAnn Urofsky. Then it's off to the circus, to learn about big-top lore and a modern script. Finally, the quirks of airport security.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

"Florida Matters Live & Local" scrolls from social media and voucher mismanagement to underfunded state parks and a church leader's survival against the odds.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," host Matthew Peddie directs listeners from south St. Pete's food concerns, a dustup over oversight of college courses, a preview of the upcoming legislative session and a patriotic runner.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

"Florida Matters: Live & Local" explores topics on leadership, culture, safety and innovation that are shaping communities across the state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

During WUSF’s holiday fundraising drive, we’re asking for your support to keep our newsroom strong. In the meantime, "Live and Local" revisits some of the best conversations from this fall.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Live and Local," we cover families facing food insecurity, endangered manatees, navigating tricky holiday conversations and exploring festive local events.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Millions of Floridians are watching their health insurance costs as federal subsidies for the Affordable Care Act are set to expire. From emergency room concerns to possible Medicaid solutions, a University of South Florida public health expert breaks down what’s at stake on "Florida Matters Live and Local."Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

It’s dry time in Florida, so local governments and residents are being asked to tighten the taps and focus on outdoor watering habits. A representative from the Southwest Florida Water Management District joins "Florida Matters Live & Local" with words of warning and helpful tips, such as don’t leave an unattended hose running.Then, West Tampa was home for Black families for generations, but redevelopment, cost pressures and suburban migration are transforming the landscape. Community voices talk about why the neighborhood’s legacy is worth fighting to keep.After a narrow failure last year, supporters of recreational marijuana in Florida are racing to get a new constitutional amendment on the 2026 ballot. Legal battles ensue, of course. We get an update.Finally, we flirt with romance novels, a genre defying stereotypes while building one of the most loyal fan bases.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

From schools to student aid, historic escapes to outdoor adventures, this "Florida Matters Live & Local" runs the gamut of the serious and the surprising.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

From skyrocketing utility bills to debates over property taxes and SNAP benefits — and, of course, the wildest Florida Man stories — Floridians are feeling the squeeze, the stakes and the strange.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Florida Matters: Live & Local," we highlight courage and community — strengthening young minds, fighting for felons' rights, a historically Black golf course and houses built to beat a Category 5.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

On "Florida Matters: Live & Local," we explore why some Floridians are thinking of bolting while others stay put, how air taxis could lift commuters and the region's original aviation innovation.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Latest on deadly Ybor City crash, Florida’s family caregivers, and a little sports talk - https://www.wusf.org/podcast/florida-matters/2025-11-13/latest-on-deadly-ybor-city-crash-floridas-family-caregivers-sports-talkCall: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Coming up on Florida Matters- education, politics and how the top academic jobs in the sunshine state get chosen. Listen live on 89.7, wusf.org, or watch the show on YouTube. Call in with your questions at (813) 755-6562 or email us at [email protected]: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

Florida Matters tackles tough issues, highlights little-known stories from our part of the world, and provides a greater perspective of what it means to live in the Sunshine State. Join us Monday through Thursday from noon-1pm EST as we journey across the state to explore the issues important to Floridians and cover the challenges facing our community and our state.Call: 813-755-6562Message: [email protected]: https://www.wusf.orgSign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletterFollow us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfpublicmedia/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsN1ZItTKcJ4AGsBIni35gg

The Tampa Bay Rays are being sold. Major League Baseball approved the deal- worth a reported one point seven billion dollars- last week. The Rays will be back in a patched-up Tropicana Field next season. But a permanent home for the team is still undecided. Ahead on Florida Matters, Live and Local- what’s next for the Tampa Bay Rays? And– pro wrestling has been a staple of American pop culture for decades… and a lot of its stars have come from Tampa Bay. You’ll also meet two pro-wrestlers and hear how they got their start… and why wrestling has deep roots in our region.

If you’ve ever received a speeding ticket, it was probably issued by a state trooper, a police officer, or the city or county where you were snapped speeding.But have you ever gotten one from a Homeowners Association?ALSO READ: HOA or Big Brother? Suncoast neighborhoods use controversial technology to fine speedersJosh Salman of the non-profit newsroom Suncoast Searchlight talks about how some neighborhood associations in Sarasota are issuing their own speeding citations, and why that’s raising concerns about privacy.Also in this episode Developers and environmental groups aren’t always on the same page in Florida.We’ll talk with Tampa Bay Times reporter Jack Prator. He tells the story of how a company accused of destroying a local wetland asked conservation advocates to help make its case. And remember the ocean heatwave that devastated Florida’s coral reefs a couple of years ago? Scientists have been working to rescue the corals and rebuild the reefs.You’ll hear from Keri O’Neil, director and senior scientist of the Florida Aquarium's coral conservation program. O'Neil's on the front lines of coral restoration, and she talks about the threat to Florida corals and what gives her hope for the future.

It’s been pretty hot this summer. If you live in Florida- that’s not news. But you might not know just how dangerous the heat can be for you and your neighbors here in Tampa Bay. On this episode of Florida Matters, we talk about how the heat can be more than just uncomfortable if you’re pregnant.It can cause major health problems for the pregnant person and the baby.WUSF’s Jessica Meszaros explains what she learned about pregnancy and heat. And why these problems are only likely to get worse. Also on the show: we know how expensive it can be to get housing in Tampa Bay. You’ll hear from Bradenton area business owner John Horne of Oyster’s Rock Hospitality and Mark Vengroff, CEO and Managing Partner of One Stop Housing about a solution to the problem: building workforce housing. And Dalia Colon, host of WUSF’s The Zest, joins us to talk about the new season of the podcast- plus food tips for hurricane season.

New rules for people applying to get their learners' permit in Florida aim to make it safer for teen drivers. WUSF’s Meghan Bowman and Pasco County tax collector Mike Fasano join Florida Matters to explain.Have you ever wondered what it takes for a dog to become a service animal? Meet dog trainer Katie Baker with Dogs Inc. of Bradenton and her service dog in training, Star.And the guy behind Tampa International Airport’s wildly popular social media feed is C.J. Johnson. His cheeky Instagram posts are often funny- but there’s more to them than just entertainment.

Amid the country's strict immigration policies, stories are emerging from people placed in federal detention and those no longer in U.S.Some have been deported and some are leaving voluntarily.WUSF's Nancy Guan joins "Florida Matters" to share her reporting about two people whose lives in the Tampa Bay region have been turned upside down.Also, roadways across the state are looking a bit less colorful. Cities and counties are being told by state and federal leaders to remove rainbow crosswalks and other types of street art.St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said he doesn’t like it, but the city will comply.Byron Green-Calisch, president of St. Pete Pride, explains how the city’s LGBTQ+ community is reacting to the removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and 25th Street.