Panhandle Pulse

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Buzz Conroy, founder of North Bay Cigars. Buzz shares his journey from his very first cigar after a concert to mastering the Cuban rolling technique and building a thriving live cigar rolling business across the Florida Panhandle.Learn how boutique cigars are crafted, why live cigar rolling has become a standout experience for weddings, bachelor parties, and private events, and what sets this growing niche apart. Buzz also breaks down beginner-friendly cigar tips—from choosing the right blend and flavor profile to properly storing cigars in a humidor.Whether you’re new to cigars or a longtime enthusiast, this episode dives into the culture, craftsmanship, and community behind cigars—plus a look ahead at plans for a future cigar lounge in Northwest Florida.Follow and connect with North Bay Cigars:• Website: northbaycigar.com• Instagram: @northbaycigar• Facebook: North Bay CigarSupport the show

Palm Folly Founder Meaghan Easterhouse on Building a Craft Hard Seltzer Brand on Florida’s Emerald Coast | Panhandle Pulse PodcastPodcast Description:In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck sits down with Meaghan Easterhouse, founder of Palm Folly, a fast-growing craft hard seltzer brand born on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Meaghan shares her unconventional journey from military upbringing and global travels to nursing, nonprofit work, and ultimately launching her own beverage company.Hear how she went all-in on entrepreneurship—despite having zero brewing experience—to create a unique, fruit-forward, draft-ready hard seltzer designed to elevate the category. Meaghan opens up about the real challenges behind building a brand: closing her brick-and-mortar taproom, navigating distribution, finding the right production partners, and learning tough lessons along the way.Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a local business owner, or just curious about the craft beverage industry, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice.Follow Palm Folly on Instagram and stay tuned for new flavor releases as the brand continues to expand across Florida and beyond.Support the show

What does the future of Florida look like? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Paul Renner—former Speaker of the Florida House, Navy veteran, and current GOP candidate for governor—to break it all down.Renner shares his background growing up in Jacksonville, his 20-year military career, and the leadership lessons he learned serving in both the Gulf War and Afghanistan. From there, we dive into his run for governor and what sets him apart from other candidates.We cover major issues facing Florida today, including:His plan to eliminate property taxes for most homeownersSolutions to rising insurance costsFixing housing affordability and out-of-state investment pressuresInfrastructure challenges across the PanhandleThe role of AI, data centers, and protecting kids onlineRenner also discusses his “Florida First” approach, focusing on economic growth, small businesses, and keeping the state affordable while managing rapid population growth.Whether you're a Florida resident, business owner, or just following the governor’s race, this episode gives you a clear look at the policies and priorities shaping the state’s future.https://voterenner.com/https://www.instagram.com/paulmrenner/https://www.facebook.com/RepPaulRennerhttps://x.com/Paul_RennerSupport the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Tony Carder, a seasoned entrepreneur who previously built and sold one of the top pest control companies in Georgia before starting a new venture, TruNorth Pest Control, right here in Florida.Tony dives into what really fueled his success—not just smart business decisions, but a strong emphasis on relationships, exceptional customer service, faith, leadership, and deep community involvement. Now based along the Emerald Coast, he’s applying those same principles to grow his new company while building a meaningful life in the Panhandle.This episode also explores:How Tony approached scaling and eventually selling his first companyHis perspective on business acquisitions and long-term growthThe importance of mentoring young people and developing future leadersWhat it takes to build a brand from the ground up in a competitive marketIt’s a great listen if you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or someone interested in the culture and growth of the 30A and Emerald Coast area.https://trunorthpest.com/https://www.facebook.com/trunorthpest/https://www.instagram.com/trunorth.pest/Support the show

In this episode of Pan Handle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with storyteller, marketer, and creator Kerri Parker—the voice behind Hwy 331—to explore how powerful storytelling can shape and uplift a community.Kerri shares her unique journey from corporate marketing with iconic South Walton brands to building a grassroots media platform that bridges the gap between the north and south sides of Walton County. With a passion for highlighting overlooked communities like DeFuniak Springs and Freeport, she created Hwy 331 as a digital hub featuring stories, podcasts, and local insights that celebrate the people and culture of the Florida Panhandle.The conversation dives deep into her evolution as a creator—from launching a podcast to stepping far outside her comfort zone to produce her first short documentary, The Lake That Built a Town. With no prior filmmaking experience and only 90 days to complete the project, Kerri reveals the challenges, self-doubt, and “delusional confidence” it took to bring the story of Lake DeFuniak to life.Chuck and Kerri also discuss:The importance of storytelling in building emotional connections within a communityHow Hwy 331 is reshaping the narrative beyond the 30A spotlightLessons learned from podcasting, branding, and content creationOvercoming imposter syndrome and rebuilding confidence later in lifePreserving local history for future generations through film and mediaThe real behind-the-scenes work of running a podcast and media brandWhy community pride and positive storytelling matter now more than everKerri also shares insights on supporting local creators, getting started with your own podcast or documentary, and why consistency—not perfection—is the key to success.Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about the Florida Panhandle, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a powerful reminder of how stories can connect, preserve, and transform a community.🎧 Tune in to hear how one idea—bridging a highway—turned into a movement of storytelling, filmmaking, and local impact.https://hwy331.com/https://www.instagram.com/hwy.331?igsh=MTQ1cW04OHpweXI1cA==The Lake That Built a Town: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33ZRuyrEK8cSupport the show

In this powerful episode of Panhandle Pulse, Derek Asher opens up about his raw journey from a troubled past in California—marked by jail time, addiction, and setbacks—to rebuilding his life through faith, resilience, and creativity. Now a barber and entrepreneur on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Derek shares how skateboarding shaped his mindset, how he turned a viral haircut into community impact, and what it takes to start over with purpose.Discover how he built his brand as the “Skateboarding Barber,” navigated failures, and found meaning through giving back, mentoring youth, and creating authentic connections. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone chasing growth, second chances, and a better future.Derrick Asher Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskateboardingbarber?igsh=MWlmNXRlM3FucTd6dQ==Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with local real estate broker Ron Hefner to talk about what makes Florida’s Emerald Coast one of the most desirable places to live in the country.From the white-sand beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, and Destin, to the growing communities around the bay, Ron shares firsthand insight into the real estate market, lifestyle, and the rapid growth happening across the Florida Panhandle.Ron also shares his unique origin story — how breaking up a bar argument at the famous Red Bar in Grayton Beachunexpectedly led him into a 15-year real estate career that’s helped hundreds of buyers relocate to the area.In this conversation, they discuss:• Why so many people are relocating from the Midwest and major cities• The unique lifestyle of living along Florida’s Emerald Coast• Real estate trends in Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Freeport, and Destin• The difference between rental communities and full-time neighborhoods• What buyers need to know about Florida insurance and hurricane preparedness• The future of development and housing affordability in the Panhandle• Hidden local gems, restaurants, and outdoor activities• The truth about living near the beach year-roundThey also dive into how the area has evolved from a vacation destination into a thriving year-round community with growing schools, infrastructure, and family life.Whether you're thinking about moving to Florida, investing in beach real estate, or simply love the lifestyle of the Gulf Coast, this episode provides an inside look at the opportunities and challenges shaping the Florida Panhandle today.If you’ve ever dreamed of living near crystal-clear water and sugar-white sand, this conversation will give you a realistic perspective on what life here is really like.Connect with Ron: https://linktr.ee/RonHefner?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=4e6e5fd2-16e1-4a9f-be92-fbed935f5181Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Pastor Charles Wilson of The Chapel at Crosspoint in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida for an inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, and community impact in the Florida Panhandle.Pastor Wilson shares the incredible story of how a struggling church with just eight members transformed into a thriving congregation that now supports multiple ministries and nonprofit organizations across the region. What began as a mission to help close a small church turned into a powerful example of faith, perseverance, and community service.Throughout the conversation, Pastor Wilson and Chuck discuss:• The history of the church dating back more than 70 years in South Walton• How The Chapel at Crosspoint helped launch several other churches in the area• Supporting local nonprofits providing food, medical, and dental care• The importance of churches working together across denominations• The role faith plays in building stronger communities• Disaster relief and the vision for a future community support facility• Challenges facing the Florida Panhandle including workforce shortages, housing affordability, and infrastructure growthPastor Wilson also reflects on his unconventional journey into ministry, his passion for theology and community service, and why helping others has become the most fulfilling work of his life.If you're interested in faith, leadership, community development, nonprofit work, or the future of Florida’s Panhandle, this episode offers meaningful insight and inspiration.🎙 Panhandle Pulse is the podcast that explores real issues, real conversations, and the people shaping the Florida Panhandle.Subscribe for more conversations with local leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.Support the show

Thinking about leaving your 9-5 job to become a business owner? In this episode of the Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with business acquisition expert Matt Uhler to break down how entrepreneurs can successfully buy established businesses instead of starting from scratch.With more than 28 years of experience and involvement in 800+ business transactions, Matt shares real-world insights on buying, selling, financing, and growing businesses. He explains why purchasing an established business can significantly reduce risk compared to launching a startup, and how buyers can evaluate opportunities using proven financial and operational strategies.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why buying an existing business can be safer than starting oneThe 4 key factors to evaluate before acquiring a companyHow business financing works (including SBA loans and seller financing)Common mistakes new business buyers make—and how to avoid themWhy many deals fail after purchase when owners change the “recipe”How to approach business owners privately if a business isn’t listed for saleWhy the upcoming “Silver Tsunami” of retiring baby boomers will create major buying opportunitiesWhether franchises or independent businesses are better investmentsPractical steps for W-2 employees who want to transition into business ownershipMatt also discusses the importance of education, financial preparation, and choosing industries aligned with your skills, proximity, and long-term goals. If you’re considering entrepreneurship through acquisition, this episode offers practical advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and build an income-producing asset.🎧 Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or business owner looking to grow through acquisitions, this conversation provides a roadmap to getting started the right way.Guest: Matt Uhler – Business Acquisition Expert & Founder of Amped SuccessHost: Chuck AsburyPodcast: Panhandle PulseSupport the show

In this powerful episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with “The Dyslexia Professor” Russell Van Brocklen to unpack the real science behind dyslexia and why traditional school systems are failing bright students. From his own journey with a first-grade reading level to developing a results-driven method that helped students jump from the 4th percentile to the 65th percentile, Russell shares practical strategies parents and educators can use immediately.Learn how early intervention can save millions in education costs, how to tap into a child’s “specialty” to unlock reading and writing skills, and why motivation—not medication—is often the missing piece. If you're a parent, teacher, or policymaker in Florida’s Panhandle, this conversation could change how you think about dyslexia, special education, and student potential.https://dyslexiaclasses.com/Support the show

In this episode of PanHandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with local anesthetist Corey Fernandez of Destin Surgical Center.Corey shares his journey from growing up in Freeport to training at Florida State, the University of Florida, and Nova Southeastern, eventually returning home to serve the community. They discuss healthcare access challenges in Northwest Florida, physician turnover, population growth, and what it will take to strengthen medical services in the Panhandle.Beyond medicine, Corey opens up about his passion for songwriting and performing with his band, The Salty Strays, balancing life as a husband, father of three, medical professional, and musician.If you care about local healthcare, community growth, entrepreneurship, or creative pursuits in the Florida Panhandle, this episode delivers honest insight and real conversation.You can find Corey’s music, social media, and latest releases here: https://linktr.ee/coreyfernandezSupport the show

Kevin O’Neill, Master Captain and owner of Destiny Water Adventures, joins Panhandle Pulse with host Chuck Asbury, to share his incredible journey from a laid-off Detroit plumber to one of the Emerald Coast’s most successful water sports entrepreneurs. In this episode, Kevin breaks down how he got his captain’s license, moved from Key West to North Florida, navigated strict water sports regulations, and scaled Destiny Water Adventures into a thriving multi-business operation with over 35 boats.Chuck and Kevin dive deep into entrepreneurship, blue-collar work ethic, digital marketing, team building, leadership, and the realities of running seasonal businesses in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Navarre. Kevin also shares lessons learned from setbacks, health challenges, and why investing in people—and not being afraid to bet on yourself—is the key to long-term success.Whether you’re interested in water sports, small business growth, marketing strategy, or building a life and business on the Emerald Coast, this episode delivers real-world insights and inspiration.Topics Covered:Starting and scaling a water sports business in FloridaCaptain’s licenses and working on the waterMarketing, SEO, and digital ads for local businessesLeadership, team building, and employee developmentNavigating regulations and growth on the Emerald CoastEntrepreneurship, grit, and betting on yourselfSupport the show

In this episode, host Chuck Asbury sits down with author and speaker Judson Stone to discuss his journey from Maine to Florida, his passion for history and writing, and the importance of preserving family stories. Judson reflects on his work as a substitute teacher, his involvement in local organizations, and building meaningful community connections in the Panhandle. The conversation also touches on healthcare challenges in the area, the customary use controversy impacting beach access, and practical advice for new residents and retirees seeking purpose and connection along Florida’s Panhandle.Support the show

On this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Kelly Todd, President of Forensic Strategy Solutions, to discuss real-world fraud risks facing small businesses. From forensic accounting insights to practical fraud prevention tips, this honest conversation covers trust, accountability, red flags, and how business owners can protect themselves in today’s digital and AI-driven world.Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Owen Girard, Florida Panhandle Field Representative for Turning Point USA, to discuss faith, politics, and the future of Gen Z leadership in Northwest Florida.Born and raised in Tallahassee, Owen shares his personal journey from growing up on the political left to finding purpose through faith, conservative values, and community engagement. The conversation dives into the importance of civil discourse, planting seeds rather than winning arguments, and how young people can move from wanting change to livingchange—both on campus and in their communities.Chuck and Owen also explore major issues facing the Florida Panhandle, including political representation, community division, the role of faith in public life, social media echo chambers, and why getting off the internet and back into real conversations matters now more than ever.This episode is a thoughtful, honest discussion about bridging divides, strengthening families, and raising the next generation with purpose, discipline, and compassion.Topics Covered:Gen Z and conservative activismFaith and politics in the Florida PanhandleTurning Point USA and student leadershipCivil discourse and healing political divisionCommunity engagement vs. social media outrageRaising strong families and future leaders🎧 Subscribe to Panhandle Pulse for real conversations, real issues, and no filters—focused on the people shaping the Florida Panhandle.Follow Owen on X https://x.com/realowengirard?s=21Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Dr. Marc McKinley, a nephrologist (kidney doctor)serving Panama City and Panama City Beach, Florida. Dr. McKinley shares his journey from private practice in Cleveland, Ohio to the Florida Panhandle—and why moving here in late 2020 became one of the best decisions for his family and career.We cover practical, real-world kidney health topics including:What a nephrologist treats: kidney disease, high blood pressure, dialysis, electrolytes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD)Why kidney disease often has few symptoms until it’s advancedWhat to look for in your labs: creatinine, BUN, urinalysis, protein/blood in urineDialysis explained: in-center hemodialysis vs. at-home options, including peritoneal dialysisIV hydration bars, “banana bags,” and what people with kidney disease should be cautious aboutCaring for veterans and the real-world friction of referrals and approvalsThe challenge of doctor recruitment in the Panhandle—and how new medical facilities could change access to careThis is an approachable conversation for anyone who wants to be smarter about kidney health, prevention, and navigating healthcare in the Florida Panhandle.Guest: Dr. Marc McKinley, Nephrology (Panama City / Panama City Beach)Show: Panhandle PulseSupport the show

In this episode of Pan Handle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Stephanie Sylvestre, co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Avatar Buddy, for a deep and honest conversation about the human side of artificial intelligence.Stephanie shares her unexpected journey into tech—from economics and government work to building AI-powered digital mentors—and explains how Avatar Buddy creates “spiritual” digital twins that capture personality, values, and lived experience rather than just physical appearance. Together, they explore how AI can amplify human potential, improve confidence and self-esteem, streamline work, and even help people stay emotionally balanced in an increasingly complex world.The conversation also dives into real-world applications of AI in business, the future of digital identity and security, startup resilience, and why trusting your instincts matters when building something new. This episode challenges the idea that AI replaces people—and instead shows how it can help us become more present, mindful, and connected.Support the show

Chief Meteorologist Chris Smith, founder of PanhandleWeather.com, joins Panhandle Pulse to discuss the future of weather forecasting in Northwest Florida. Chris shares his journey from local TV news to launching an independent, digital-first weather platform focused on accurate, local forecasts without the noise. The episode explores entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and why building a community-focused weather channel allows Chris to be more present with his family while serving the people who rely on timely, trustworthy forecasts. Chuck and Chris discuss the role of AI in future forecasting, the challenges of growing a local media startup, and the importance of industry and job growth in the Florida Panhandle.Whether you live in Northwest Florida, plan to vacation along the Gulf Coast, or are interested in digital media and weather technology, this episode offers valuable insight into how local forecasting is evolving—and why weather remains the most important information people depend on every day.Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Ed Gutentag, a veteran Hollywood cinematographer and storyteller now based in Panama City, Florida.Ed shares an incredible journey spanning decades in film, from working on iconic productions like Titanic and War of the Worlds to interviewing legends such as Harrison Ford, Robin Williams, and even spending time with the Dalai Lama. But this conversation goes far beyond Hollywood.Together, Chuck and Ed dive into:Why storytelling matters more than technologyThe creative mindset behind great films, podcasts, and businessesLiving with ADD and turning it into a creative advantageThe difference between being busy and being meaningfulHow creativity, entrepreneurship, and community intersect in the Florida PanhandleWhy politics shouldn’t destroy relationships — and how real conversations still matterEd explains why cameras don’t make great stories — people do — and how modern creators can use storytelling to elevate businesses, brands, and communities without losing authenticity.This is an honest, deep, and wide-ranging conversation about creativity, purpose, discipline, freedom, and human connection — exactly what Panhandle Pulse is all about.👉 If you care about film, storytelling, entrepreneurship, personal growth, or the future of the Florida Panhandle, this episode is for you.Panhandle Pulse PodcastFlorida Panhandle PodcastPanama City FloridaCinematography PodcastStorytelling in BusinessCreative EntrepreneursFilm Industry StoriesHollywood CinematographerADD and CreativityContent Creation PodcastSmall Business StorytellingCommunity ConversationsChuck Asbury PodcastSupport the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Matthew Fornaro, a seasoned Florida business law attorney with over 20 years of experience helping entrepreneurs, startups, and small to mid-sized businesses succeed.Matthew shares practical legal guidance for Florida small business owners, including how to choose the right business structure (LLC, S-Corp, partnership), why contracts are critical, and the most common legal mistakes entrepreneurs make when starting or scaling a business. They also dive into timely topics like using AI and ChatGPT for legal documents, what AI can and cannot replace in the legal field, and how business owners can protect themselves from liability.The conversation covers:Florida business formation and LLC best practicesContracts, employment agreements, and vendor protectionsLegal red flags small businesses often overlookAI in law: benefits, risks, and the future of legal servicesReal estate investing, LLC strategies, and liability protectionHow often business owners should check in with an attorneyWhether you’re launching a startup, running a family business, investing in Florida real estate, or growing an established company, this episode offers real-world legal advice tailored to Florida’s business environment, especially in the Panhandle.🎧 Listen now to gain clarity, avoid costly legal mistakes, and build your business the right way—no filters, just real conversations.Support the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Diane Freeman, Executive Director of A Bed 4 Me Foundation—a nonprofit providing beds, bedding, and hope to children across Okaloosa and Walton County.Many families in our region don’t realize the crisis happening right next door: children sleeping on floors, couches, or air mattresses. Diane explains how A Bed 4 Me identifies children in need, conducts home visits, customizes bedding based on each child’s personality, and delivers complete bed sets—often within 7–14 days.Diane shares:✔️ The surprising scale of bed poverty in Northwest Florida✔️ Heartwarming stories from families starting over✔️ Why custom bedding makes such a big impact on a child’s confidence✔️ How growth, rising costs, and housing instability are increasing local need✔️ Simple ways businesses and individuals can help todayA Bed 4 Me relies completely on local donations, volunteers, pillow drives, and community partnerships. Diane also highlights their current needs, including volunteers in Crestview & Walton County, business partners, and storage space to expand services.If you're looking for a powerful, local way to make a difference, this episode shows exactly how you can help a child sleep safely, soundly, and with dignity.👉 Volunteer or learn more: A Bed 4 Me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, or visit their website📧 Contact Diane: [email protected] the show

In this episode of The Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Blaine Watts, owner of Pink’s Window Services – Emerald Coast, to explore his journey from a 30-year tech career with companies like Cisco and Google to becoming a local small-business owner serving the Florida Panhandle.Blaine shares what inspired his move to the Emerald Coast, why he chose a window-cleaning and home-services franchise, and how he’s bringing professionalism, dependability, and 1950s-era service values back to the blue-collar industry.They dive into:🔥 Topics CoveredWhy Blaine left the tech world for entrepreneurshipWhat makes Pink’s different from traditional service companiesThe importance of showing up on time and delivering consistent qualityBuilding a strong team of young workers and creating career pathsSeasonal business challenges unique to the Gulf CoastHow maintenance plans help homeowners stay ahead of salt, humidity, and wearPartnering with other service providers (pressure washing, soft wash, gutters)The biggest workforce challenge facing the Panhandle today: affordabilityGiving back to the community and supporting local growthAdvice for anyone starting a small business in the Panhandle💬 Quote Worth Sharing"We just want to bring respect back to the blue-collar industry—show up on time, do what you say you’ll do, and leave the home better than you found it." — Blaine Watts📍 Connect With Pink’s Window Services – Emerald CoastSearch Pink’s Window Services Emerald Coast to request a quote, learn about services, and schedule fast, professional home or commercial cleaning.Support the show

In this inspiring episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with leadership and life coach Kirk McCarley, widely known as The Seed Sower Coach in Florida’s Panhandle. With a rich background in HR, leadership development, ESPN sports broadcasting, authorship, and faith-based mentorship, Kirk shares his journey from the corporate world to coaching individuals to find purpose, clarity, and direction.Kirk explains the origin of his “Seed Sower” brand, rooted in the biblical parable from Luke and his passion for cultivating growth in others. He talks about transitioning careers, earning advanced coaching certifications, helping young professionals and seasoned leaders, and what it means to “MOVE”—his word of the year for overcoming feeling stuck.Together, Chuck and Kirk dive into:🌱 How coaching differs from therapy🌱 The importance of purpose-driven leadership🌱 Advice for young professionals and transitioning career paths🌱 The value of networking and taking action🌱 Servant leadership, faith, and community impact🌱 The biggest challenges facing the Florida Panhandle today🌱 Books that inspire leadership, resilience, and perspective🌱 How sports and broadcasting shaped Kirk's communication and coaching styleKirk also shares practical wisdom on conflict resolution, decision-making, embracing change, and keeping perspective—especially as we head into the holiday season.If you're looking for clarity, encouragement, or the next step in your personal or professional journey, this episode is full of seeds worth planting.Connect with Kirk:📘 Book: Thoughts for Kids and Other People’s Kids🌐 Website: TheSeedSowerCoach.com📱 Phone: 314-677-8779Join the conversation: What’s the biggest issue you see in the Panhandle right now? Share your thoughts with Chuck on X at @ChuckAsburyII.Support the show

In this powerful episode of The Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Jared Cartee, a leading advocate in the fight against human trafficking and the voice behind Safe in the Panhandle and Ruth Lake Farm.Jared shares his deeply personal journey—from ministry, recovery, and fatherhood to becoming a major force for awareness, prevention, and victim support in Northwest Florida. He breaks down how human trafficking is impacting the Florida Panhandle, why the numbers are rising, and what signs families and businesses must look for.You'll learn about:The mission of Safe in the Panhandle, including prevention, intervention, and restorationHow Ruth Lake Farm is building a sustainable model to financially support anti-trafficking effortsThe urgent need for 24/7 emergency safe homesHow local businesses can get certified trainingThe real signs of trafficking that parents, teachers, and community members often missWays YOU can support the mission—through training, donations, and community involvementJared also highlights the farm’s honey, satsuma oranges, blueberries, and future Christmas trees, all of which fund critical advocacy and rescue work.If you live in the Panhandle or want to understand what trafficking really looks like in local communities, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.👉 Learn more or get involved:safeinthepanhandle.comruthlakefarm.netSupport the show

In this episode, Chuck sits down with Walton County conservative leader Gordon Porter for a wide–ranging conversation on faith, politics, and raising up the next generation of leaders in the Florida Panhandle. Gordon shares his deep roots in local politics, from tagging along with his grandparents to Tea Party meetings as a teenager, to leading the North Walton Republican Club, to nearly unseating an incumbent in a local school board race. He and Chuck dig into whether school board races should be partisan, the problem of “RINOs” in deep–red counties, and why being honest about your party and principles matters now more than ever.Gordon also explains his new role as state committeeman for Walton County, what actually happens inside the Republican Executive Committee (REC), and how endorsements—from Donald Trump to local power brokers—do and don’t shape real voters. From there, the conversation turns to faith and politics: Gordon talks about serving as faith mobilization chair, why he believes the GOP must stop being shy about its Christian foundations, and how the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk sparked a powerful prayer vigil and public witness in DeFuniak Springs.The episode closes with a hopeful look forward: Gordon outlines plans to launch a Walton County Young Republicanschapter, support Turning Point USA / Club America in local schools (including homeschool families), and build Turning Point Faith connections in local churches. He makes a direct appeal to young conservatives across the Panhandle—especially men 18–25—to stop sitting on the sidelines, get into a Bible-believing church, and then step into the arena through their local REC, precinct slots, and youth clubs.In this conversation, you’ll hear about:Gordon’s journey from Tea Party kid to state committeemanWhy he believes Florida school board races should be openly partisanThe real impact (and limits) of big-name political endorsementsHow faith, not personality, should anchor conservative politicsThe Charlie Kirk memorial vigil in DeFuniak Springs and lives changed thereYoung Republicans, Club America, and Turning Point Faith opportunities in Walton CountyA candid challenge to end GOP infighting and put America First in practice, not just as a sloganSupport the show

In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Dr. George Dockendorf, better known around Miramar Beach as “Dr. Dryp.” A former Air Force flight surgeon, emergency room physician, and now entrepreneur, Dr. Dockendorf shares his journey from military medicine to launching Aqua Vitae IV Bar, a health and wellness venture bringing personalized IV hydration therapy to the Florida Panhandle.Together, Chuck and Dr. Dockendorf dive deep into the changing landscape of healthcare—discussing physician burnout, doctor shortages, and the challenges of retaining medical professionals in smaller communities. Dr. Dockendorf offers candid insights into what’s working (and what’s not) in today’s healthcare system, and how businesses like Aqua Vitae are helping bridge the gap between clinical care and preventative wellness.You’ll also hear how Dr. Dockendorf built his brand from the ground up, the story behind the nickname “Dr. Dryp,” and why he believes the future of healthcare lies in accessibility, personalization, and community connection.Whether you’re a healthcare professional, entrepreneur, or just curious about the people shaping the Florida Panhandle, this episode delivers a mix of inspiration, practical advice, and real talk about medicine, business, and life balance.🎧 Tune in to learn:How Dr. Dockendorf transitioned from emergency medicine to business ownershipThe story behind Aqua Vitae IV Bar and its missionWhy doctor retention is a major issue in Florida’s PanhandleThe importance of innovation and wellness in modern healthcareWhat it takes to reinvent your career while serving your communityGuest: Dr. George “Dr. Dryp” DockendorfHost: Chuck AsburyPodcast: Panhandle PulseLocation: Miramar Beach, FloridaSupport the show

In this episode of The Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Chance Johnmeyer, founder of Recall Florida, to discuss how citizens across the state are pushing to restore accountability in local government.From county commissioner corruption to legislative roadblocks in Tallahassee, Chance explains the grassroots movement to give all Florida counties the power to recall corrupt officials — and what every citizen can do to get involved.Learn how the recall process works, why 47 Florida counties still lack the right to recall, and how everyday people are standing up for transparency, accountability, and fair representation in Florida politics.Visit RecallFlorida.orgto learn more and join the movement.Follow Chuck on X: @ChuckAsburyIISupport the show

In this episode, Keith Gross shares his journey from entrepreneur to 2024 Republican primary candidate for U.S. Senate in Florida. Drawing inspiration from Donald Trump’s outsider mentality, Gross discusses why he believes it's time to challenge career politicians and restore accountability in Washington.He opens up about his transition from Democrat to Republican, driven by a shift in values and a desire for smaller government. Gross emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with voters, pushing for reforms in property taxes, and reducing federal overreach.The conversation also explores the economic opportunities in Florida’s Panhandle, including the potential revival of the shipbuilding industry, and the broader need for fresh leadership that puts community first.Gross’s story is one of political transformation, business grit, and a bold vision for Florida’s future.Support the show

In this conversation, Kurt Tobias shares his journey from the corporate world to founding Choona Clothing, a brand that embodies the spirit of the Florida Panhandle. He discusses the challenges of starting a clothing line, including manufacturing in the U.S., the importance of community support, and the connection to the outdoors. Kurt emphasizes the significance of giving back and maintaining a strong local identity while navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.Support the show