Episoder
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In Episode 112 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Judge E.J. Salcines and Professor James Fernández to talk about Tampa’s Spanish immigrants and how they shaped the city. They get into the cigar industry, the immigrant communities that built Tampa’s economy, and why many Spaniards never planned to stay in the U.S. The conversation covers how Tampa grew into a major entry point for immigrants and why its history often gets overlooked.The Tampa Bay History Center is a museum in downtown Tampa that focuses on the region’s past. It covers everything from early indigenous settlements to Tampa’s cigar industry and immigrant communities. The museum has historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that explain how the area developed. It’s located on the Tampa Riverwalk and is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution.This episode is sponsored by KohlerHaus Remodeling Co, the Official Remodeler of the TBD POD. KohlerHaus is built on integrity, craftsmanship, and clear communication, setting a high standard for home remodeling. Their work ranges from condos in Channelside to century-old homes in South Tampa, delivering quality renovations that are built to last.Visit kohlerhaus.net to explore their portfolio and start yourresidential remodeling experience today.
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In episode 111 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with former Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn. Buckhorn served from 2011 to 2019 and led the city through major growth, helping shape its development and infrastructure. He talks about how Tampa changed during his time in office, the challenges of handling rapid expansion, and what still needs to be addressed. They cover everything from flood control and transportation to the role of state and federal funding in city projects. Buckhorn also gives his thoughts on leadership, public trust in local government, and the possibility of running for office again.
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Manglende episoder?
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In Episode 110 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett talks with Justin Tramble and Dustin Pack of Tampa Bay Waterkeeper about the state of Tampa’s waterways. They break down the issues affecting Hillsborough River, the ongoing pollution problems, and why local infrastructure isn’t keeping up. They also get into the controversy over Tampa’s annual St. Patrick’s Day river dyeing, questioning whether it’s worth the environmental risk. The conversation covers living shorelines as an alternative to seawalls and how natural solutions could help long-term. They explain how city planning, funding, and public awareness all play a role in improving water quality.Tampa Bay Waterkeeper is a nonprofit organization working to protect and improve Tampa Bay’s watershed. They focus on clean water, coastal resilience, and ecosystem health. Through water quality monitoring, legal advocacy, and community engagement, they push for policies and projects that make a difference. They also collaborate on research studies, like tracking contaminants in marine life. Their work relies on local support, and they offer ways for people to get involved through memberships, volunteer opportunities, and donations. Learn more at TampaBayWaterkeeper.org.
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In Episode 109 of the TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Jon Paul Bacariza, the Florida Market Leader at Ryan Companies, to discuss the evolving landscape of real estate development in Florida. They explore the challenges of mixed-use projects, the impact of office market shifts, and how automation is reshaping logistics and retail. Jon Paul shares insights into major developments, including adaptive reuse, structured parking, and the economic forces influencing land use in Tampa Bay. They also dive into the rise of automated fulfillment centers, the future of public transportation, and how large-scale land deals are shaping Florida’s growth.
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In episode 108 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Randy Goers, Tampa’s former city planner, to discuss the city’s evolution, from major redevelopment projects like Water Street and West River to the future of urban growth. With over 35 years of experience, Randy shares insights on city planning challenges, bold development strategies, and what Tampa could look like in 2050.
Randy Goers is an urban planner and strategist who spent over 35 years shaping Tampa’s growth through innovative planning, economic development, and policy strategy. He played a key role in projects like the Riverwalk expansion and major redevelopment efforts. Since 2015, he has also hosted the Drone Radio Show Podcast, exploring how drones are transforming industries and improving quality of life.
0:00:00 - Introduction0:01:21 - Drones0:08:43 - Becoming Tampa’s City Planner0:32:24 - Harbor Island People Mover0:45:55 - Howard Franklin Bridge0:48:15 - Future of Rail0:53:13 - Tampa in the 90’s1:00:00 - Tampa in the 2000’s1:09:42 - Tampa in the 2010’s1:18:33 - Invision Tampa1:29:42 - McDill Airforce Base1:35:32 - Buckhorn’s Second Term1:43:36 - Closing Remarks
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In episode 107 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett talks with Mercedes Gonzales, a senior leader from MacDill Air Force Base, about the military’s role in Tampa and the challenges service members face. They cover how rising home prices affect military families, the struggle to find affordable housing, and efforts to improve infrastructure, including a proposed ferry system.They also talk about special operations and how the military is adapting to global threats. You’ll hear about the importance of military partnerships, how service members transition into civilian life, and why so many veterans choose to stay in Tampa. This episode gives you a clear look at how the military fits into Tampa’s growth and the challenges ahead.
0:00:00 - Introduction to the guest0:03:15 - Tampa’s post-pandemic growth0:08:40 - Rising home prices & military housing0:15:22 - MacDill AFB’s impact on Tampa0:21:10 - The commuting challenges for service members0:30:45 - Special operations & future threats0:40:30 - Military partnerships worldwide0:48:20 - Infrastructure improvements & traffic solutions0:55:10 - Why veterans stay in Tampa1:05:00 - Closing thoughts & final message
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In episode 106 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett Greco sits down with Erica Moody to discuss the transformative efforts of the University Area CDC in Tampa. They explore the challenges and opportunities in developing attainable housing, creating community spaces, and integrating transportation with urban planning. Erica shares insights into the importance of fostering strong relationships with the community, addressing systemic barriers, and the innovative ways her team is helping improve the quality of life in the university area. You can expect an engaging conversation about sustainable growth, urban design, and the essential role of collaboration in building stronger neighborhoods.
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In episode 105, Garrett sits down with Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities shaping Tampa’s future. From funding public transit and addressing flooding to the $50 million West Riverwalk expansion, they explore how Tampa balances growth, infrastructure, and community needs. They also touch on the importance of educated voters, the evolving political landscape, and the city’s efforts to ensure safety and equity for its residents.
0:00:00 - Introduction0:04:05 - The Future of Politics
0:10:15 - Seeking Answers After Helene and Milton
0:39:57 - HART
0:54:25 - Bus Route One
0:58:36 - Funding Infrastructure
1:07:33 - West Riverwalk Expansion
1:22:56 - Trolley Expansion
1:26:52 - Outro
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In Episode 104 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Dawn Shirreffs to discuss Florida’s environmental challenges and the critical steps needed to address them. From the impact of major hurricanes on local infrastructure to the rising costs of insurance, this conversation examines how policies and nature-based solutions like mangroves can protect communities. Dawn, representing the Environmental Defense Fund, shares insights on renewable energy, flood zone awareness, and why resilience planning is essential for the state’s future. This episode is a deep dive into the strategies shaping Florida’s approach to these pressing issues.
0:01:20 - Environmental Defense Fund’s Florida focus
0:02:15 - Mangroves for storm surge protection
0:03:17 - Insurance challenges and development risks
0:06:24 - Hurricanes, heat, and climate change
0:09:32 - Mitigating storm impacts in Florida
0:12:33 - Mangroves as natural storm defense
0:18:23 - Resilience projects and state funding
0:24:17 - Transition to renewable solar energy
0:32:52 - Federal incentives for clean energy
0:54:45 - FEMA maps and flood risks
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In Episode 103 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett Greco sits down with County Commissioner Joshua Wostal to talk about how Tampa’s growth is shaped by local politics, ethics, and infrastructure decisions. They discuss the impact of outdated policies, challenges in transportation planning, and the need for fair representation. Commissioner Wostal shares straightforward views on leadership and practical ideas for improving how local government serves the community. If you want to understand the issues shaping Tampa Bay’s future, this episode breaks it down clearly.
Joshua Wostal is a County Commissioner, successful entrepreneur, and decorated Navy veteran. He owns a logistics business near Raymond James Stadium and previously served as COO of a family-owned manufacturing company, where he helped turn the business around financially. During his decade of Navy service, he led a team of over 1,000, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and was honored for his courage under fire in Taliban attacks. Wostal is also a passionate advocate for children, partnering with ChildHelp.org to support foster kids and volunteering with organizations like Caps for Kids and All Children’s Hospital. He lives in Hillsborough County with his wife, Noelle, their son, Matthew, and three rescue pets.
0:00:00 - Local Political Corruption?
0:02:30 - Introduction
0:09:11 - Public Transportation
0:12:36 - Reducing Property Tax
0:19:24 - Removing Politicians From Board of Directors
0:22:54 - Why "All For Transportation" Failed
0:26:42 - The Street Car and Future Transportation
0:44:25 - Property Rights
0:50:39 - Transportation Discussion Continued
1:03:09 - HART
1:24:04 - Joshua's Transportation Solution
1:38:58 - Affordable Housing
1:49:31 - Induced Demand
1:54:31 - The Worst Deal in Tampa History
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In episode 102 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett talks with Ishaan and Shree from Serenity Capital Management and Realty Dynamics. They share how they tackle challenges in real estate development, like high land prices, rezoning delays, and balancing risk and opportunity. They also explain how they use data and technology to find the best sites for development and make smarter decisions. If you’re in real estate or interested in how the industry works, this episode gives you practical insights.
Realty Dynamics was created by developers who know the real struggles of finding and managing properties. Ishaan and Shree worked with Apratim Biswas, an expert in technology and data systems, to create tools that make real estate easier to handle. The software gives you quick access to important information, streamlines your work, and helps you make better decisions. Realty Dynamics aims to save you time and help you focus on growing your business in a smarter, more efficient way.
0:00:00 - Introduction
0:00:32 - Overview of Realty Dynamics
0:01:28 - Serenity Capital’s business model
0:03:54 - Midwest vs. Florida development
0:06:19 - Market trends and softening
0:09:00 - Challenges with land acquisition
0:13:15 - Flood risks and home values
0:16:19 - Optimism in real estate market
0:19:04 - How Realty Dynamics works
0:22:29 - Key features of software
0:33:05 - Client feedback and improvements
0:37:14 - Pending permits and development
0:39:10 - Introducing AI tool Land Body
0:43:28 - AI helping land use attorneys
0:49:40 - AI vs. human decision-making
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In Episode 101 of The TBD Podcast, host Garrett Greco sits down with his producer, David, to discuss the growth of the podcast and their vision for the future. They explore Tampa’s rapid growth, the push for walkable communities, and exciting development projects on the horizon.
0:00:00 - Intro
0:10:00 - West Tampa0:18:50 - Tampa Bay Rays Update
0:41:15 - Dave Portnoy
1:04:58 - The Past 100 Episodes
1:25:42 - Viral Moments
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In episode 100 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett Greco sits down with Jeff Vinik, a pivotal figure in Tampa’s transformation. Former majority owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the visionary behind the Water Street Tampa development, Vinik has played a monumental role in shaping the city’s future. In this conversation, Jeff talks about the challenges of building Water Street Tampa, why it required close coordination with local government, and the lessons learned along the way. He explains how his decisions have impacted Tampa’s growth, shares stories from his time with the Lightning, and discusses how the city could look decades from now. If you’re curious about the work that goes into reshaping a city and the people behind it, this episode offers valuable insights.
0:00:00 - Intro0:04:15 - Buying the Tampa Bay Lightning
0:23:40 - Developing Water Street Tampa
0:56:28 - Bonuses for Lightning Employees
1:05:00 - Selling Stake in Water Street
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In Episode 99 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett Greco talks with Jim Shimberg, the former Tampa City Attorney, general counsel for the Tampa Bay Lightning, and general council for SPP (the developer of Water Street Tampa). They discuss Tampa’s growth and the challenges that come with it. Jim shares his experience working on projects like Water Street Tampa and discusses affordable housing, zoning, and infrastructure issues in the city. He explains what it takes to balance development with community needs and why decisions made today will shape Tampa’s future. This conversation gives you a clear look at what’s happening in Tampa’s real estate and what to expect moving forward.
0:00:01 - Introduction to Water Street0:07:15 - Tampa Bay Lightning leadership0:15:10 - Role as City Attorney0:22:45 - Affordable housing challenges in Tampa0:30:20 - Infrastructure issues in Tampa0:38:05 - Water Street development process0:44:30 - Attracting South Florida developers0:51:15 - Tampa’s economic development hurdles0:57:10 - Live Local Act explanation1:04:45 - Balancing density and community needs1:12:30 - Impact of hurricanes on housing1:20:15 - Long-term vision for Tampa1:26:05 - Challenges in corporate relocation1:30:10 - Tampa’s appeal for new residents1:32:00 - Optimism about Tampa’s future
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In Episode 98 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett talks with Tampa City Councilman Bill Carlson about Tampa’s growth and the challenges that come with it. They discuss Ybor City’s transformation, the push to preserve its history, and how development is reshaping the area. Bill shares his thoughts on housing affordability, infrastructure improvements, and how Tampa can grow while keeping its character. This conversation gives you a clear look at the decisions shaping Tampa’s future.
0:00:00 - Introduction
0:04:01 - Historical Ybor architectural vision
0:06:09 - Tampa-Cuba historical connections
0:10:51 - Williamsburg's historic recreation parallels
0:13:19 - Saint Augustine and cultural reflection
0:16:18 - Ybor parking, cultural preservation
0:24:55 - Maximizing development around sites
0:26:00 - Tampa Union Station Renovation
0:27:16 - CRA funding for historic properties
0:30:24 - Union Station and urban vision
0:31:38 - Tampa's infrastructure challenges
0:46:29 - City transit funding limitations
1:05:57 - Autonomous transit in Tampa
1:10:12 - Gondolas and transit funding
1:57:18 - Ferry commuter service setbacks
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In Episode 97 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Raul Alfonso, the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Port Tampa Bay. They explore the port's significant role in fueling Central Florida’s growth, discussing its economic impact, future expansion projects, and the increasing importance of shipping containers and cruise industries. Raul shares insights into the port's master plan, infrastructure investments, and its vision for Tampa Bay as a hub for logistics, tourism, and commerce. This episode offers a deep dive into the inner workings of one of Florida's most critical economic engines.
0:00:00 - Introduction and Raul’s Background
0:02:33 - Tampa’s Growth and Port’s Role
0:05:27 - Port’s Economic Impact on Florida
0:12:55 - Covid-19 and Supply Chain Disruptions
0:16:25 - Container Growth and Infrastructure Investments
0:20:04 - Hurricane Impact on Fuel Distribution
0:27:00 - Vision 2030 and Future Expansion
0:33:41 - Skyway Bridge and Cruise Limitations
0:39:18 - Labor Strikes and Automation Challenges
0:44:00 - Cruise Industry Growth and Tourism
0:50:26 - Channel District and Urban Development
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In Episode 96 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Ron Francis, a craftsman specializing in Venetian plaster and custom finishes. Ron shares how he built his career, the techniques he uses, and how he works with developers and designers to create lasting designs. They also talk about what it takes to live out your dream—turning your passion into a profession and staying true to what you love. You’ll hear about the materials he imports from Italy, his focus on quality, and his thoughts on working in both traditional and modern spaces. If you’re interested in design or craftsmanship, you’ll get a lot out of this conversation.
0:00:00 - Chasing happiness and personal fulfillment
0:05:04 - Recovery and career transformation
0:10:13 - Learning plaster techniques and faux finishes
0:15:45 - Traditional vs. synthetic plaster differences
0:20:23 - Partnerships with Tampa developers
0:25:44 - Scaling business and training apprentices
0:30:34 - Large-scale plaster projects overview
0:36:12 - Craftsmanship and building community
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In Episode 95 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett talks with Nolan Gray, the research director at California YIMBY and the author of Arbitrary Lines. Nolan explains the roots of zoning in the U.S., how it affects housing and cities today, and what steps can improve these challenges. They cover topics like the influence of cars on urban planning, why housing has become so expensive, and how better rules can make cities more livable for everyone. This conversation gives you a clear understanding of how zoning impacts your life and what can change for the better.
0:00:00 - Nolan Gray introduction
0:01:31 - Why cities fascinated Nolan
0:02:13 - Housing affordability challenges
0:03:12 - YIMBY movement origins
0:05:10 - Suburban vs. urban development
0:05:47 - Inspiration for Arbitrary Lines
0:07:42 - Federal involvement in housing
0:08:56 - Suburbanization of America explained
0:09:35 - Evolution of zoning rules
0:11:18 - Effects of land-use segregation
0:13:39 - Cars’ role in zoning history
0:19:00 - Local entrepreneurship restrictions
0:21:39 - Race and zoning after WWI
0:27:30 - Housing affordability affecting middle-class
0:29:56 - Suburbs, cars, and urban form
0:32:40 - Managing parking for better cities
0:37:56 - Observing cities to plan better
0:43:20 - Preserving walkability in cities
0:47:11 - Rural vs. urban voting challenges
0:51:10 - Future of housing and demographics
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In Episode 94 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Patrick Manteiga, editor and publisher of La Gaceta, the nation’s only tri-lingual newspaper. Patrick shares the story of his family's 102-year-old publication, Tampa's rich cultural heritage, and the evolution of its immigrant communities. From the role of cigar factories in shaping the city to the politics that have defined its growth, this conversation provides a thoughtful look at the past, present, and future of Tampa. Join us for an episode that connects Tampa’s history with its ongoing development.
0:00:00 - Intro
0:01:35 - History of La Gaceta
0:04:20 - Cigar Factories and Tampa’s Growth
0:10:15 - Immigrant Contributions
0:16:50 - Urban Renewal Impacts
0:23:30 - Cuban Revolution and La Gaceta
0:31:45 - Evolution of La Gaceta
0:37:10 - Urban Development Challenges
0:45:25 - Preserving Tampa’s Identity
0:53:00 - Community Leadership
1:02:15 - Tampa’s Future
1:10:00 - Closing Remarks
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In Episode 93 of The TBD Podcast, Garrett sits down with Nick DiCosola of St Pete Box to dive into the innovative world of building homes and ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) out of shipping containers. They discuss the durability of these structures, their potential to provide resilience against Florida’s hurricanes and storms, and the challenges posed by zoning regulations. Nick explains how these container homes offer practical solutions for challenging lots and budget constraints.
0:00:00 - Introduction of Guest and St Pete Box
0:02:00 - Shipping Container Benefits and Materials
0:07:00 - Company History and Initial Projects
0:12:00 - Popularization and Unique Customer Requests
0:17:00 - Technical Aspects and Container Dimensions
0:22:00 - Scaling the Business and Customer Types
0:27:00 - Building Codes and Permitting Challenges
0:34:00 - Container Resilience in Storms
0:40:00 - Affordability and Price Range for ADUs
0:45:00 - Market Demand and Applications for ADUs
0:52:00 - Government and Community Support for Shipping Containers
1:00:00 - Future of Shipping Containers and Modular Construction
1:05:00 - Commercial Applications and Examples
1:12:00 - Unique Projects and Customer Collaborations
1:20:00 - Long-Term Vision for St Pete Box and Lumara Containers
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