Our Florida Podcast
Our Florida Podcast is a deep dive into the Sunshine State’s rich history and fascinating ecology. Join 6th-generation Floridian sisters Kaylee Betts Johnson and Maegan Betts as they uncover the stories and natural wonders that make Florida unique.
Florida is one of the most popular states for a reason. Whether you're a longtime local, a snowbird, or a new resident, we hope you'll discover something new that deepens your appreciation for this beautiful and diverse place.
🎙️ Mondays – Kaylee explores Florida’s history, from conquistadors to conservationists, sharing the stories of those who shaped the state.
🌿 Fridays – Maegan dives into Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems, revealing the incredible biodiversity that makes it so special.
Episodes
24 episodes
EP#24 The History of Invasive Species in Florida
This episode explores the issue of invasive species in Florida, discussing their historical context, impact on native wildlife, and the importance of public awareness and reporting. The hosts delve into specific examples such as feral hogs, ...
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Season 1
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Episode 24
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34:55
EP#23 Mermaids in the Springs: Weeki Wachee
In this episode of Our Florida Podcast, hosts Kaylee and Mae Betts celebrate Kaylee's birthday while exploring the fascinating history and attractions of Wikiuachi Springs State Park. They discuss the park's unique features, including its me...
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Season 1
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Episode 23
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31:24
EP#22 The Mysterious Skunk Ape of Florida
In this episode, Mae and Kaylee explore the folklore surrounding Florida's Skunk Ape, a creature often compared to Bigfoot. They discuss its origins, sightings, and the various theories surrounding its existence, including the possibility of it...
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Season 1
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Episode 22
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24:09
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EP#21A Look at Florida's LGBTQ History
In this episode, we explore the complex and often turbulent history of LGBTQ rights in Florida, from Drag queens in the 1930s to the fight for recognition in the wake of the AIDS crisis. We take you through pivotal moments, such as the brutal a...
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Season 1
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Episode 21
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1:02:32
EP#20 How to get away with grave robbery?
In this episode, Kaylee and Mae delve into the bizarre and often disturbing stories that have come to define Florida's reputation, with a particular focus on the infamous case of Karl Tanzler and his obsession with Elena Hoyos. They discuss ...
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Season 1
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Episode 20
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28:45
EP# 19 FWC Commissioners Development or Conservation?
In this episode, hosts Mae and Kaylee discuss the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), its mission, and the potential conflicts of interest among its commissioners. They explore the backgrounds of various commissioners, h...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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37:34
Ep#19 FWC Commissioner Rodney Barreto
In this episode, Mae and Kaylee delve into the complexities of Florida's wildlife management, focusing on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). They discuss the FWC's mission, structure, and commissioners' roles, highligh...
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Season 1
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Episode 18
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35:18
EP#17 The Deadliest Hurricane in Florida History
In this episode, hosts Kaylee and Mae explore Florida's rich history of hurricanes, wildlife, and community involvement. They discuss the importance of understanding hurricane categories, the dangers of storm surge, and the impact of floodin...
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Season 1
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Episode 17
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1:07:23
EP# 16 Should We Hunt Florida’s Black Bears? What You Need to Know Before the FWC Meeting
In this episode, Mae and Kaylee dive into the upcoming Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting and what it means for the future of Florida’s black bear population. They unpack the complex issues of wildlife management, i...
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Season 1
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Episode 16
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38:26
EP#15 2015 48 Hour Black Bear Hunt
In this episode of the Florida Wildlife Podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of the Florida Black Bear, discussing its unique characteristics, breeding and hibernation patterns, diet, and habitat. They also explore ...
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Season 1
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Episode 15
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34:55
EP# 14 The Alarming Truth About Red Tide
This episode explores the phenomenon of red tide in Florida, discussing its causes, effects on marine life, historical context, and the ongoing scientific research aimed at understanding and mitigating its impact. The hosts delve into the na...
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Season 1
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Episode 14
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32:09
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Ep #13 Bridge to Nowhere: The 1980 Sunshine Skyway Collapse
In this episode, Kaylee & Mae explore a Florida tragedy—the collapse of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge on May 9, 1980. What started as a routine day turned into a nightmare when the MV Summit Venture collided with the bridge, causing a...
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52:26
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EP #12 Our State Animal: Florida Panther
This episode explores the Florida Panther, the state animal of Florida, discussing its selection, habitat, physical characteristics, diet, threats to its survival, and ongoing conservation efforts. The hosts delve into the history of the Flo...
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Season 1
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Episode 12
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38:04
Ep #11 The Grandma of the Glades: Marjory Stoneman Douglas
In this episode, Kaylee & Mae dive into the extraordinary life of Marjorie Stoneman Douglas—writer, activist, and the fierce protector of the Everglades. She wasn’t just an environmentalist; she was a force of nature, fighting for conservat...
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Season 1
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Episode 11
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42:29
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EP #10 Are Manatees Mermaids?
In this episode of the Florida wildlife podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of manatees, exploring their habitats, diet, physical characteristics, and the impact of human activities on their survival. They discuss ...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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43:08
EP #9 Mastodons in Florida. The History of Wakulla Springs.
In this episode, Kaylee and Mae dive into the fascinating world of Florida Springs, exploring their geological formation, the role of the Floridan aquifer, and the rich history of Wakulla Springs. They discuss how ancient m...
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Season 1
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Episode 9
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41:36
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EP #8 Purple Gallinule VS. Purple Swamphen
In this episode, Mae and Kaylee explore Florida's diverse wildlife, focusing on the Purple Gallinule, a vibrant bird native to South Florida. They discuss its physical characteristics, habitat, diet, and threats, including confusion wi...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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26:30
EP #7 We Almost Divided Florida. The Story of the Cross Florida Barge Canal
In today’s episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the life and legacy of Marjorie Harris Carr, a trailblazing conservationist who fought to protect Florida’s natural spaces. They discuss her role in establishing the Paynes Prairie Wildlife Refuge, ...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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45:02
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EP #6 Anastasia Island Beach Mouse
This episode explores the Anastasia Island Beach Mouse, a unique and endangered species native to Florida. The hosts discuss the mouse's habitat, diet, reproduction, and the various threats it faces, including habitat loss and predation. They e...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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30:02
EP #5 Fort Mose – The First Free Black Settlement in America
In this episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the remarkable history of Fort Mose, the first legally recognized free Black settlement in what would become the United States. Located near St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose was a sanctuary for Africa...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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40:01
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EP #4 North America's Only Marsupial: Virginia Opossum
In this episode, Maegan and Kaylee explore the fascinating world of the Virginia opossum, Florida's only marsupial. They discuss its unique adaptations, anatomy, reproduction, and significant role in the ecosystem, particularly pest control...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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26:17
Ep #3 The Florida National ScenicTrail
In this episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the Florida Trail, a lesser-known but extensive hiking network that spans the entire state of Florida. They compare it to more famous trails like the Appalachian Trail, discuss the culture and communit...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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58:43
EP#2 Myakka’s Alligator Hotspot
In this episode, Maegan and Kaylee explore the fascinating world of the American alligator, focusing on its significance in Florida's ecosystem, particularly in Myakka State Park. They discuss the alligator's behavior, its interactions with hum...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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39:24
Ep 1: Myakka River State Park, The Last Million Years
SummaryIn this inaugural episode, Kaylee Betts Johnson and Maegan Betts introduce their podcast, focusing on the rich history and natural beauty of Florida, particularly the Myakka River Valley. They discuss the area's historical ...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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47:57