Afleveringen
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In this episode of Mikes on Mic, hosts Mike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert sit down with Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan live from City Hall. As she begins the final year of her first term and launches her 2027 re-election campaign, Mayor Deegan reflects on her commitment to turning renderings into reality and keeping her administration's foot on the gas.
From downtown revival and neighborhood infrastructure to navigating local political drama and bracing for a major state-level tax battle, Mayor Deegan shares an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of leading one of Florida's fastest-growing cities.
Key Topics Discussed
Jacksonville's Momentum: Mayor Deegan highlights the city's growth, including major investments in riverfront parks, healthcare, and pioneering local funding to address the affordable housing crisis.Neighborhood Infrastructure vs. Downtown Revival: Addressing critics, the Mayor details how downtown development brings a high return on investment that funds neighborhood projects. She highlights an increase from $15 million to $100 million for infrastructure in underserved areas, including vital septic tank removals.Public Safety & Prevention: A look at why violent crime numbers are down, the impact of literacy initiatives in partnership with former Mayor John Peyton, and the implementation of Journey Forward intervention programs.Navigating City Council Relations: Mayor Deegan discusses her working relationship with the new Council President, finding common ground on jobs and economic development despite differing views on what constitutes "core services".The Tallahassee Threat: A deep dive into the upcoming November homestead exemption referendum, which threatens a $300 million revenue hole for Jacksonville and strips local control over quality-of-life funding.Floridaâs Best-Run City: Mayor Deegan reacts to WalletHubâs recent study naming Jacksonville the best-run city in Florida, contrasting the ranking with recent unspecific criticisms from the State CFO.Notable Quotes
"People say it all the time to me, that they can feel Jacksonville's momentum. It's clearly a city on the rise, and I think that is what I am most proud of...""This is big government, guys... We are the government closest to the people. We should be allowed to run our own cities without interference from folks who literally were not elected by our citizens."Connect With Us
Website: mikesonmic.comAvailable On: Catch Mikes on Mic on your favorite podcasting platform, YouTube, and Facebook!Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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Why are working families in Jacksonville one rent increase away from financial distress? Why has homeownership become an elusive dream for an entire generation, even for those who can afford rent?
In this episode of Mikes on Mic, Mike Miller and Mike Tolbert dive deep into the uncomfortable questions surrounding Jacksonvilleâs dramatic housing market shift. They are joined by Dr. David Jaffe (Sociology Professor at the University of North Florida) and Katie Renzi (Project Manager for UNFâs Rental Housing Project), co-authors of the book, The Financialization of Human Shelter: The Rental Housing Crisis in a Sun Belt City.
Together, they pull back the curtain on how basic human shelter has been converted into an asset class for wealthy clients and corporate landlords. They break down the failures of traditional supply-and-demand models, the political roadblocks to local affordable housing initiatives, and why the stateâs political landscape is making tenant protections harder to enforce.
If you want to understand who really benefits from the current housing market and what alternative models could actually move the needle, this is a conversation you cannot afford to miss.
Key Takeaways From This Episode
The Financialization Shift: How private equity firms and institutional investors are buying single-family homes in Jacksonville, bundling them into portfolios, and prioritizing investor returns over safe, affordable living conditions.The "Middle Housing" & Transit Dilemma: Why zoning deregulation alone won't solve the crisis without capital subsidies and robust public infrastructure, like transit networks, to drive purposeful development.State Preemption vs. Home Rule: A look at how Florida's Live Local Act and other state-level legislation have effectively dismantled local "home rule," wiping out democratically passed Tenant Bills of Rights overnight.4 Priorities to Fix the Crisis: Dr. Jaffe shares his blueprint if he were given the keys to City Hall: creating an Office of Housing Resources, launching a public landlord registry, beefing up code compliance, and funding publicly owned, non-profit, mixed-income housing.Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Book: The Financialization of Human Shelter: The Rental Housing Crisis in a Sun Belt City by Dr. David Jaffe & Katie Renzi (Published by Emerald Point).Research Website: Check out the multifamily apartment complex database and resources at the [Jax Rental Housing Project Website].Support the Show: Mikes on Mic is made possible by our wonderful community of donors. Thank you for keeping our lights on and the cameras rolling! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this incredibly special episode of Mikes on Mic, hosts Mike Hightower, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Miller dedicate the hour to honoring a true Jacksonville iconâphilanthropist, trailblazer, and community champion Pam Paul.
With fingerprints all over the civic, political, and philanthropic fabric of Jacksonville, Pam has spent over six decades quietly transforming the city from the ground up. From serving as an indispensable full-time volunteer senior staff member across three mayoral administrations (Mayors Ed Austin, John Delaney, and John Peyton) to her fierce advocacy for the creation and funding of the Jacksonville Childrenâs Commission, Pamâs legacy is a masterclass in selfless leadership.
The Mikes share moving tributes from an exclusive video feature packed with local legendsâincluding former Mayors John Delaney and John Peyton, former Sheriff Nat Glover, Judge Audrey Moran, and business leader Michael Munzâbefore sitting down with Pam herself to reflect on a wonderful life of service.
Tune in to hear firsthand stories about her fearless early days lobbying for children's issues in the all-male halls of Tallahassee and Washington, her unique trademark bowl of peanut M&Ms, and that unforgettable weekend she directed street traffic to ensure 2,100 underprivileged kids got to see Michael Jackson live at the Gator Bowl.
âąď¸ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 â Introduction: Honoring the Fingerprints of Pam Paul 01:25 â The Florida House Impact Award & A Gathering of 500 Leaders 01:50 â Local Legends Reflect: Audrey Moran, John Delaney, Nat Glover, Mark Lamping & John Peyton 02:20 â The Dollar-a-Year Volunteer & The Famous Peanut M&Ms 03:40 â Sheriff Nat Glover on the New Town Project Partnership 04:20 â Mayor John Peyton & The Early Childhood Literacy Book Club 06:30 â Michael Munz: "The Mother of the Children's Commission" 08:30 â Cracking the Glass Ceiling & Quietly Designing the Better Jacksonville Plan 14:50 â Mike Tolbertâs Story: Pam, Michael Jackson, and the 1984 Victory Tour 15:50 â Mike Hightowerâs Story: Crashing the Halls of Tallahassee & Washington DC 18:10 â Mike Millerâs Reflection: The Senior Staffâs "Moral Compass" and "Den Mother" 19:30 â The History of the 1994 Tax Referendum for Kids 22:10 â Pam Paul Joins the Show: Meeting Bobby Paul at Yale & Moving South 24:45 â Facing the Good Ol' Boys: Trailblazing for Female Lobbyists 28:00 â "Aren't We Having Fun?" & Closing Remarksđ CONNECT WITH US
Stream More Episodes: Mikes on Mic Official Website Find Us on Socials: Available on Facebook, YouTube, and your favorite podcast platforms!đŹ SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Mikes on Mic runs on the generosity of our community. A huge thank you to all of our donors for keeping the lights on and the cameras rolling! If you enjoyed this tribute to Pam Paul, please consider liking, subscribing, and sharing this episode with a friend.
#MikesOnMic #PamPaul #JacksonvilleHistory #Philanthropy #WomenInLeadership #JaxChildrensCommission #CommunityImpact #DuvalCounty
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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Is Downtown Jacksonville truly booming, or are we just chasing buzzwords? In this episode of Mikes on Mic, Mike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert sit down with Ennis Davisâa certified planner, public historian, and sixth-generation Floridianâto peel back the layers of Jacksonvilleâs urban development, transportation struggles, and rich cultural heritage.
From the future of the Laura Street Trio to the deep Gullah Geechee roots of LaVilla, Ennis provides a master class on how history and density must work together to create a vibrant city.
Key Highlights from the Conversation:
The Reality of "Booming" Downtown: Ennis discusses why hitting the 10,000-resident milestone isn't a "magical pinnacle" for vibrancy and why the city must focus on "The Three Cs": Clustering, Complementing uses, and Compact settings.Historic Preservation & The Laura Street Trio: A look at why projects like the Trio have struggled to cross the finish line and how the Ambassador Hotel's transition into a Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel serves as a model for adaptive reuse. LaVillaâs True Identity: Why Ennis corrects the "Harlem of the South" label, instead calling Harlem the "LaVilla of the North," and the neighborhood's role as the epicenter of Gullah Geechee culture in Jacksonville.Transportation & The Navi System: A candid critique of JTAâs driverless vehicle system, the need to attract "choice riders," and why transit investments fail without supportive land-use policies. The Emerald Trail: Why this project is more than just a "wide sidewalk" and how it can serve as a tool for generational wealth in historically disenfranchised communities.Jacksonvilleâs Gullah Geechee Heritage: Ennis discusses his new book and the $34 billion economic potential of cultural tourism, including the authentic history behind local staples like shrimp and grits and garlic crabs. Website: mikesonmic.comFollow Us: Find us on your favorite podcast platform, Facebook, and YouTube.About the Guest:
Ennis Davis is an author and urban planner with over 20 years of experience in architecture and development. He is the President of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and a leading voice on equitable development and mobility in Florida.
Join the Conversation:
Special thanks to our generous donors for keeping the lights on and the cameras rolling.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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The three Mikes are taking a brief hiatus this week, but weâre digging into the vault to bring you a discussion that is just as relevant now as it was when it first aired in March 2025. Join Mike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert for a deep dive into the political maneuvers and fiscal realities shaping Jacksonville.
In This Episode:
The UF Land Swap: We break down the friction between Mayor Donna Deagan and Councilman Ron Salem over the proposed land swap to bring a University of Florida graduate school to downtown.The $3 Billion Elephant in the Room: A sobering look at the city's $3 billion pension debt and the record-breaking $201 million annual payment hitting the general fund.The Power of Local Journalism: We discuss the critical role of the Jacksonville Tributary in uncovering the health crisis at the Duval County Jail, leading to staffing increases and the lifting of the facility's probation.2026 Political Forecasts: From the Trump vs. DeSantis influence on the Florida Governorâs race to John Morganâs potential third-party run, we look at the shifting tides of the GOP and independent voters.Legislative Watch: A discussion on the $115.6 billion state budget, the erosion of Home Rule, and the future of property insurance in Florida.Connect with the Mikes:
Website: mikesonmic.comPlatforms: Find us on your favorite podcast app, Facebook, and YouTube."Stay in your lane and look at the charter. The council is a legislative body meant to approve or denyânot to negotiate the mayorâs job." â Mike Tolbert.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
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In this episode, the "Three Mikes"âMike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbertâare joined by long-time political leader and 5th-term City Councilman Matt Carlucci. With a legacy stretching back to the dawn of Jacksonvilleâs consolidation, Carlucci offers a candid look at the friction currently defines City Hall.
From the "cancer" of partisanship to the ongoing investigations surrounding JEA, this conversation cuts through the noise to ask: Is Jacksonville's government still working the way it was intended?.
Inside the Episode
The Carlucci Legacy: Matt reflects on the lessons learned from his father, Joe Carlucci, a member of the first Consolidated Council known for his fierce independence.A Crisis of Trust: The hosts discuss a recent UNF poll showing City Council approval ratings in the low twenties. Carlucci argues that trust is a politician's most valuable asset and, currently, it is being squandered by pettiness.The JEA Controversy: The discussion dives into the State Attorney investigations and the "political problem" behind allegations of toxic workplace culture and billing failures.Staying in the Lane: Mike Hightower and Matt Carlucci warn against the "chilling effect" of politicizing independent boards, noting the potential risks to Jacksonvilleâs credit ratings on Wall Street.Downtownâs Momentum: Despite the political drama, Carlucci highlights the "noticeable" vertical growth in the city, including the University of Florida's presence, the new MOSH, and the Emerald Trail.Key Takeaways
"If you ever join a team on the council or a clique... that keeps you from the principles and your ability to serve the people as you should, then you have just compromised and stepped over the line." â Matt Carlucci.Independence is Paramount: Carlucci stresses that council members must be independent thinkers rather than following "bad influencers".The Danger of Partisanship: Modern political divisions are described as a "wall" that prevents the give-and-take necessary for sound policy-making.Governance vs. Politics: The "Founding Fathers" of consolidation intentionally designed independent authorities like JEA to keep politics outâa guardrail Carlucci believes is currently under threat.Connect with Mikes on Mic
Visit our website at mikesonmic.com to catch up on past episodes. You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, and your favorite podcasting platform.
Donât forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on the conversations shaping Jacksonville.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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Jacksonvilleâs public utility is back in the headlines, and as the "Mikes" point out, itâs not for a billion-dollar deal or privatization efforts this time. In this episode, hosts Mike Miller,Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert sit down with David Bauerlein, the tireless investigative reporter for the Florida Times-Union, to peel back the layers of the latest controversies surrounding the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA).
From allegations of a "toxic workplace" and racism to uncollected fees and political quid pro quo, we dig into whether this is a legitimate reckoning or just another chapter in Jacksonvilleâs long-running political battles.
Inside This Episode:
The Capacity Fee Blunder: David explains the undisputed error where JEA failed to collect additional "capacity fees" from large commercial customers who exceeded their initial usage estimates.A "Toxic" Culture? We examine the testimony of former Chief of Staff Kurt Wilson regarding CEO Vicki Caveyâs leadership style and the ongoing outside review of the workplace environment.The Racism Allegations: While a City Council special committee is investigating claims of racism, David clarifies what has actually been proven (or not) on the record so far.Ethics and Insider Influence: We break down the reports involving Council President Kevin Carrico, potential equity stakes in private telehealth companies, and the optics of "transactional behavior" at City Hall.The Wall Street Impact: Mike Hightower discusses how this constant turmoil affects JEAâs reputation with rating agencies and the morale of its workforce.Why It Matters
As JEA faces a City Council investigation and a state attorney review, the fundamental question remains: Can an independent board maintain its fiduciary duty amidst intense partisan debate?. David Bauerlein offers his perspective on where the "cavalry" is headed and if this story will finally settle down six months from now.
Stay Connected:
Visit our website: mikesonmic.comFollow us on Facebook and YouTubeSubscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!The views and observations expressed by the Mikes or our guests are just oursâand probably not yoursâbut weâre glad youâre listening.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
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Weâve been watching Jacksonville politics for a long time⌠and I keep seeing the same pattern.
Something happens. Tension builds. People point fingers. And then somehow, it all circles back to the same place.
But this time feels different.
Thereâs a message. A âfavor.â And a series of moves that raise more questions than answers. The kind of questions most people donât ask out loud.
If youâve ever felt like growth is slow⌠like decisions happen behind the scenes⌠like the real story never gets told⌠youâre going to want to hear this.
Because whatâs happening here isnât just politics. Itâs a mindset. And most people miss it.
In this episode, youâll learn:
Why one simple message changed the entire conversationThe hidden pattern that keeps repeating in this systemHow âcontrolâ shows up in ways most people overlookThe quiet tension between power and responsibilityWhy the real issue might not be what everyone is arguing aboutChapters:
00:00 â Opening and Disclaimer
03:15 â Why This Story Keeps Repeating
07:40 â The Text Message That Sparked It
12:10 â Rapid Events
16:45 â The âBig Favorâ Question
21:20 â Conflict or Coincidence?
26:05 â Deflection or Strategy
30:30 â Inside the Investigation Push
35:15 â Control Over the Board
40:10 â Whatâs Happening Behind the Scenes
45:25 â The Bigger Risk No One Talks About
50:40 â Impact on Workers and Stability
55:15 â A System Built⌠or Broken?
59:30 â Final Thoughts and What Comes NextTune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
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Back for a new season, and this time Iâm getting right into the pressure points shaping Jacksonville and Florida politics.
A lot of people still believe party labels tell the whole story. They do not. Beneath the headlines, there are deeper problems driving voters, testing incumbents, and putting real pressure on local leadership.
In this episode, we dig into what may really decide the next big races, why some public approval numbers can fool people, and how one growing controversy could carry bigger consequences than many want to admit.
In this episode, youâll learn:
Why one major Florida advantage may not be as strong as people thinkWhat issue is hitting voters harder than the usual political talking pointsWhy Jacksonvilleâs local political fights may be helping the wrong sideWhat could make a mayorâs race feel safe one day and wide open the nextWhy the latest JEA turmoil may be bigger than one headline or one investigationFollow the show, share this episode, and stay with me as we break down the stories behind the public story.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
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Welcome to a special year-end milestone episode of Mikes on Mic.
In this reflective wrap-up, the hosts come together with community leaders and longtime friends of the show to look back on more than two and a half years of meaningful conversations. With 125 episodes recorded, the podcast reflects on its journey exploring politics, government, and the evolving story of the Jacksonville community.
This episode revisits some of the most impactful discussionsâfrom conversations with city leaders, business innovators, and local historians to candid exchanges with everyday residents. Together, these moments have shaped the podcast into a living archive of the cityâs past, present, and future.
Listeners will hear reflections on how long-form, civil dialogue has contributed to civic pride and deeper understanding, along with favorite episodes and memorable moments that helped frame key issues and opportunities facing the community.
As the show heads into a brief holiday hiatus, this episode invites listeners to reminisce, celebrate progress, and look ahead to more thoughtful conversations in the year ahead. Whether youâve been listening from the beginning or are just tuning in, this episode captures the heart, history, and optimism driving Jacksonville forward.
Settle in for a meaningful year-end conversation focused on gratitude, growth, and bold visions for whatâs next.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
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Today we talk about something important happening in Jacksonville. A former mayor, Lenny Curry, just became a lobbyist for JEAâthe cityâs power and water company. This is surprising because, not long ago, he tried to sell JEA, which caused a lot of people to get upset and worry about the future of the cityâs utilities.
We sit down with people who were part of the investigation into that attempted sale. We also talk with someone who reported the story and followed it closely.
Together, we ask questions like:
⢠What does this new job mean for JEA and the people who work there?
⢠Are the same people still making big decisions behind the scenes?
⢠Can the people of Jacksonville trust whatâs happening?
We take a close look at how decisions made by leaders can leave a mark on a city, even years later. And we ask if lessons were really learnedâor if history is about to repeat itself.
This is an honest talk about leadership, trust, and why itâs so important to pay attention to whatâs happening in local government.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
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For this episode we sat down with Mayor Donna Deeganâright in her officeâfor an open, honest conversation about where Jacksonvilleâs headed.
Two and a half years into her first term, sheâs had some big winsâdowntown development, the riverfront parks, and real investment in neighborhoods that have been overlooked for years. But we also got into the tough stuff: the pushback, the politics, and the challenges that come with trying to do things differently at City Hall.
We talked city spending, the telehealth program thatâs helping uninsured folks, and how her teamâs working to keep Jacksonville growing without bloating government. No fluffâjust straight talk.
Plus, with the next election not too far off, she shared what sheâs focused on right now, whatâs keeping her fired up, and why she thinks Jacksonvilleâs best days are still ahead.
If you live here, work here, or just care about how this city runsâthis oneâs worth a listen.
Letâs dive in.
Chapters:
00:00 City Progress and Cooperation Highlighted
06:00 "Bold Vision, Fast Action"
07:38 "Investing in Downtown for Growth"
10:50 City Growth Fuels Investment Stability
13:11 "Efficient Government Through Lean Processes"
17:57 Telehealth Lowers Healthcare Costs
19:43 "Investing in Prevention for Future"
23:55 "Building Pride and Progress"
25:51 Next Week's Conversation PreviewTune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
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What does it take to turn a hometown credit union into a driving force behind a cityâs rebirth?
Today, we sit down with Brian Wolfburg, President & CEO of Vystar Credit Union, for a powerful conversation on corporate culture, civic leadership, and Jacksonvilleâs future.
From its roots serving military families on a naval air base to becoming a billion-dollar financial institution with over a million members, Vystarâs journey is nothing short of transformational. Brian shares how purpose-driven leadership has fueled community impactâfrom revitalizing downtown Jacksonville and backing the Emerald Trail to supporting veterans and enriching local culture through the Museum of Science & History.
Inside this episode:
How Vystar is shaping downtownâs futureâand why it mattersThe role of veterans at the heart of Vystarâs missionWhy workplace culture is key to lasting impactBrianâs insights from serving as a Federal Reserve advisorWhat it means to build a world-class cityâand how Jacksonvilleâs getting thereWhether you're a leader, a local, or someone who believes in the power of community, this episode will shift how you see business, purpose, and the future of your city.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
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Hi! Today weâre doing something a little differentâand a little deeperâto honor the Thanksgiving holiday.
This episode brings back one of our most requested conversations: Why are we so divided?
Together with my co-hosts Mike Hightower and Mike Tolbert, we sit down with Dr. Sean Freeder, political science professor at UNF and expert on political polarization, to unpack the hard truths behind todayâs fractured political landscape.
We talk about why it feels nearly impossible to have civil conversations, how social media might be warping our sense of reality, and why weâre stuck in what feels like a never-ending culture war. Dr. Freeder doesnât sugarcoat itâbut he also doesnât leave us without hope.
Whether you're deeply political or completely burned out by the noise, this is a timely episode that will challenge the way you think, feel, and talk about politics in America.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
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Is Jacksonvilleâs $370-a-Ride Transit Bet a Bust?
Today we dive deep into Jacksonvilleâs bold experiment with autonomous transportation â NAVI â a cutting-edge, self-driving shuttle system meant to revolutionize downtown transit.
But with only 76 daily riders and a staggering $370-per-passenger cost, is it already headed for the scrap heap?
Joining us is veteran journalist David Bauerlein from the Florida Times-Union, whose relentless reporting exposes the real numbers, political infighting, and future stakes surrounding NAVI and the U2C initiative.
We dig into:
⢠Why JTA employees were riding NAVI on the clock
⢠Whether city leaders are being sold another "Skyway" dream
⢠The looming $240M+ price tag for phase two
⢠And whether this is innovative foresight⌠or dÊjà vu disaster
Today we tackle the real question: Is NAVI the future â or Jacksonvilleâs next transportation failure?
Brought to you by the Jacksonville History Center.
Enjoy!
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
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Welcome back to the show!
This week, we are diving headfirst into the kitchen-table issues hitting Floridians the hardestâhousing costs, property taxes, and skyrocketing insurance rates.
Joining the conversation is special guest Dr. Michael Binder from UNFâs Public Opinion Research Lab, here to break down fresh polling data revealing whatâs really keeping voters up at nightâand why these concerns are resonating across party lines.
Whatâs fueling the anxiety over affordability?Are Floridaâs leaders addressing the crisisâor just dodging it?And how might this all shape the upcoming elections?Dr. Binder shares insider insights, surprising data points, and the rare issues uniting Republicans and Democrats.
We unpack what it all means for Tallahassee, local governments, and the delicate balance of political power in the state.
Tune in nowâand get the scoop before the next headline hits.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
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Why do city leaders say "no" so oftenâand what does it really cost them?
Today we dive deep into the behind-the-scenes world of city council politics, revealing the often unseen pressures, personal dilemmas, and power dynamics that shape local decision-making.
Youâll hear how political leaders juggle transparency, legal fears, and public interestâall while keeping their cool (and sometimes cracking a joke) in high-stakes environments.
We also talk:
⢠Why the fear of legal backlash shapes political decisions
⢠How humor becomes a survival tool in tense council meetings
⢠The delicate dance of saying ânoâ and what it means for leadership
⢠Why transparency isnât just idealâitâs essential for public trust
⢠How personal and public interests clash behind closed doors
Whether you're a policy wonk, a curious voter, or an aspiring leader, this episode pulls back the curtain on governance, leadership, and the real cost of power in city politics.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic
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It was an experience that very few or any Americans will ever have this opportunity to witness. Our podcast co-host, Mike Hightower, recently returned from a two week trip to Ukraine with an international group.
The primary purpose was to deliver much needed medical supplies to battle field Ukraine soldiers. During this episode of Mikes on Mic, Hightower describes what he saw and summaries of meetings he had with Ukraine officials, doctors, patients and others whose lives have been turned upside down by the killing and destruction for more than two years. It was an emotional experience which Mike describes in great detail.
Join us as Hightower takes us to the front lines of this war.Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic
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We're throwing it back to one of our favorite milestone momentsâthe one-year anniversary of Mikes on Mic! In this special episode, originally recorded at The Jacksonville History Center, the Mikes reflect on highlights from the first 51 episodes that helped shape the conversation in and around Jacksonville.
From Sheriff Nat Gloverâs powerful stories, to Michael Krause of Politico on the influence of political strategist Susie Wiles, to early memories of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, and insights from UNF pollster Dr. Michael Bender on the city's shifting political landscapeâthis episode packs a punch.
Weâre also joined in-studio by Dr. Alan Bliss, CEO of the Jacksonville Historical Society, for a rich discussion on how history continues to shape the cityâs future.
Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, this episode is a perfect snapshot of what Mikes on Mic is all aboutâand a reminder of the big stories and voices we've brought to the mic.
đď¸ Tune in and get readyâbecause thereâs a lot more coming your way.
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic
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This week, weâre tackling a topic thatâs hard to ignore: the growing political polarization in the U.S. To help us unpack it, we sat down with Dr. Sean Freeder, associate professor of political science at UNF, for a powerful and timely conversation.
Why does the divide feel so personal these days? Why do disagreements so often spiral into full-blown hostility?
Dr. Freeder brings a wealth of insight into the why behind the polarization â from the psychology driving it, to the role social media plays in fueling our echo chambers, to the steep decline in trust among American voters.
We also ask the big question: is there any hope for bridging the gap? Whether itâs through tough conversations, institutional change, or waiting on the next generation â we explore what it might take to rediscover a sense of shared purpose.
This oneâs thoughtful, raw, and real â and we hope it gets you thinking.
Stick around to the end, and donât miss whatâs coming next week, when Mike Hightower takes us behind the scenes of his eye-opening journey to Ukraine.
Hit play, and letâs talk about where we go from here â is unity possible, or is polarization here to stay?
Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731
Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA
Connect with us on Social:
Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic
Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic
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