Ft Myers Beach - Good Neighbor

A great beach meal isn’t just about seafood, it’s about trust: who caught it, who cooked it, and whether the place feels like it belongs to the water you’re staring at. We’re hanging out at Snug Harbor on Fort Myers Beach with Jason, the new operating partner, and he tells the story behind the restaurant from the inside out. From his early days working in Southwest Florida restaurants to stepping into beach life right at the start of season, Jason shares what it takes to run a waterfront favorite where locals return year after year. We get specific about what makes Snug Harbor different: their fish house near the bridge, local boats delivering grouper and snapper, and a kitchen that keeps recipes simple so the fresh catch can lead. Jason also breaks down the experience guests come for, including dock space for boaters, service that feels like friendship, and that iconic sunset view that turns Table One into the most wanted seat on the bay. If you’re planning a Fort Myers Beach trip, love seafood, or just want a real look at hospitality done right, you’ll walk away with clear recommendations and a better sense of what “local” tastes like. And yes, we talk about what to order. Jason’s must-try pick is grouper, especially the Grouper Gourmet with crab, lemon butter sauce, garlic mashed potatoes, and green beans. We also dig into rotating specials and a dish you won’t see everywhere: grouper wings made from grouper collars, marinated and flash-fried. We wrap with how to find Snug Harbor online and how their catering can help with graduation season and custom parties. Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach stories, share this with a friend who loves fresh seafood, and leave a review to help more people find the show. What’s the first thing you’re ordering when you get to the water?Snug Harbor RestaurantJason Jakaitis645 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected]#SnugHarborRestaurant#DocksideDining#FreshSeafood#CincodeMayo@snugharborwaterfrontrestaurantFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A great Fort Myers Beach event doesn’t start with a spreadsheet, it starts with a place that makes people feel instantly on vacation. We’re recording at Nervous Nellies with Valerie, the event coordinator who helps turn waterfront views, great service, and a fun crowd into weddings, birthday parties, reunions, and everything in between. If you’ve been searching for a Fort Myers Beach wedding venue or a private event space that can flex from casual to elevated, Valerie lays out what actually matters when you want guests to relax and have a good time.We talk about the kinds of events Nervous Nellies hosts most often, why weddings and rehearsal gatherings keep coming back, and how the venue supports groups with multiple spaces across two floors, including indoor and outdoor options, patios, nooks, and full liquor bars. Valerie also shares what’s coming up for local Fort Myers Beach events like Cinco de Mayo, including an outside bar and margarita specials. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes perspective that helps you picture your own celebration, whether you’re planning a small 10-person moment or a bigger party that needs room to move.You’ll also get to know Valerie beyond the job title: a native Floridian who moved west, helped on her family farm, and has spent real time supporting dog rescue efforts. That mix of hospitality, community pride, and hands-on coordination is exactly what you want when you’re trusting someone with a big day.Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach local business spotlights, share this with a friend who’s planning a party, and leave a review to help more neighbors find the show.Nervous Nellie's1131 First St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 (239) [email protected]#NervousNelliesFMB #LiveMusic#WaterfrontDining#HappyHour@NervousNelliesFMBFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A ten dollar margarita that helps pay for fireworks is the kind of Fort Myers Beach idea we can get behind. We’re posted up at Snug Harbor with Jason to map out what’s happening as the island ramps into the local kickoff, starting with a Cinco De Mayo pub crawl vibe in Bayside Park and rolling straight into weekly locals favorites. We break down the Cinco De Mayo details you actually need, including the 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. window, the bar setup, and the live music slot that turns the afternoon into a proper beach night. Then we dig into the fundraiser angle: featured El Mayor tequila margaritas where half the proceeds go to the Fort Myers Beach fireworks fund, with multiple participating stops including Snug Harbor, Wahoo Willy’s, and SOB’s. If you’ve been searching for Cinco De Mayo Fort Myers Beach plans, this is a simple way to have fun and support a community tradition at the same time. From there, we shift to the weekly rhythm with Locals Happy Hour every Wednesday, plus live music and shrimp specials that make midweek feel like a mini event. Jason also shares easy wins for regulars, like Snug Harbor hats and a Locals Day perk where wearing your hat gets you a second drink free on us up to eight bucks. We also touch on graduation season and how to book larger parties, including catering options and a rentable tiki space that can fit up to about 50 people. If you love local businesses, live music, and Fort Myers Beach happy hour specials that give back, hit subscribe, share this with a friend coming to the island, and leave us a review so more good neighbors can find the show.Snug Harbor RestaurantJason Jakaitis645 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] #SnugHarborRestaurant#DocksideDining#FreshSeafood#CincodeMayo@snugharborwaterfrontrestaurantFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Leaking when you sneeze. A sudden urge that makes you sprint for the bathroom the moment you pull into the driveway. Constipation that won’t quit. Pelvic pain that’s hard to explain and even harder to bring up. We’re getting practical and specific about pelvic floor dysfunction, because “just deal with it” is not a plan and it’s not the standard you deserve.I’m joined by Dr. Greet Baestaens, a pelvic floor rehab specialist, to unpack what the pelvic floor actually is, what it’s supposed to do, and why so many people get stuck doing endless Kegels with zero results. We break down the two big urinary patterns, stress incontinence and urgency incontinence, then connect the dots to overactive bladder habits that can shrink bladder capacity over time. We also talk about nocturia (waking up at night to pee) and why the cause might be bladder irritation, hydration choices, or even fluid shifting from swollen ankles and legs.From there, we go where most conversations never do: constipation and straining, pelvic floor tightness and spasm, and why pain can show up in the pelvis, hips, or low back. Dr. Baestaens explains what evidence-based pelvic floor therapy looks like, including symptom journals, muscle testing, biofeedback, ultrasound imaging, and retraining the coordination between the bladder and pelvic floor. If you’re active in the Southwest Florida heat, you’ll also love the simple hydration checkpoint you can use today.If this helped, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs real options, and leave a review so more people can find pelvic floor rehab resources and stop suffering in silence.REnew-YU Natural Health-BeautyDr. Greet Baestaens801 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112 (239) [email protected]#REnewYU#NaturalHealth#MindBodySoul@REnewYUNaplesFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A sea turtle can cross an ocean and still lose the last 50 feet because of a single bright light on shore. We sit down with Cindy and Mary Rose from Turtle Time Inc, the volunteer team that patrols Fort Myers Beach at dawn, flags crawls, confirms nests, and monitors eggs until hatching. Along the way, we dig into the surprising scale of what’s at stake: Florida hosts about 90% of all sea turtle nests in the United States, and roughly 60% of the world’s loggerhead nests, putting our local choices on the map globally.We break down nesting season vs hatching season, why one turtle may return to lay multiple nests, and what visitors often do wrong without realizing it. The biggest theme is light pollution and sea turtle disorientation. Cindy and Mary Rose explain what “turtle friendly lighting” actually means under the Fort Myers Beach lighting ordinance: downward directed fixtures, full shielding, full cutoff, and amber LED lighting (not just a yellow bulb). We also talk about the sneaky sources of glare that matter, from open windows to cell phone flashlights during a beach walk.Then we get practical: fill in holes, clear chairs and toys at night, avoid creating ruts that trap tiny hatchlings, and know how to behave if you’re lucky enough to see a nesting turtle. You’ll also learn what the yellow flags mean, when to report fresh tracks, and how to reach Turtle Time at turtletime.org or 239-481-5566.If you care about Fort Myers Beach wildlife, coastal conservation, and keeping the beach a living ecosystem, this one gives you clear rules you can use tonight. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend staying on the island, and leave a quick review so more people learn how to protect nesting sea turtles.Turtle Time Inc.Cindy Johnson  & Mary Rose SpallettaP.O. Box 2621Fort Myers Beach, Florida 33932(239) 481-5566turtletime.org/Ft Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

The best comfort food doesn’t just fill you up, it reminds you why a town feels like home. We’re posted up at Mom’s Home Cooking on Fort Myers Beach with owner Heather Reagan, who also created the beloved Heavenly Biscuit, and she tells the real story behind “homemade.” From cinnamon rolls and biscuits to scratch-made lunch specials, Heather explains why quality ingredients are the only way to deliver food that people remember and come back for.We also talk about the long road after the storms and what rebuilding looks like in practice: operating out of a trailer, dealing with higher insurance and overhead, and hunting for the right space to bring the business back into a building. Heather shares what she misses most about the original setup, including the community traditions that grew over the years, and why she still believes the next chapter can be even better.If you’re visiting Fort Myers Beach or you live here and want a local restaurant that feels personal, Heather drops must-try menu picks beyond the cinnamon rolls, including biscuit sandwiches, a classic Cuban with house-roasted pork, a cheesesteak that earns serious praise, and smoked-chicken chicken salad. We also cover where to find Mom’s Home Cooking on Estero Boulevard and the current hours. Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach local business stories, share this with a friend who loves great food, and leave a review so more neighbors can find the show.Mom’s Home Cookin / Heavenly BiscuitHeather Reagan2450 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) 785-0707moms-restaurant-fortmyersbeach.comFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Fourth of July on Fort Myers Beach nearly lost one of its biggest traditions and the ripple effects would have hit every restaurant, bar, shop, and family that counts on summer energy. From the Roxie Power Hour in Times Square, we talk with Karen Woodson of What's Up FMB, a newly official 501(c)(3) nonprofit with one clear mission: drive visitors back to the island during the off-season and keep local businesses thriving when things slow down.Karen breaks down the behind-the-scenes reality of funding fireworks after the town cut them during budget season, including what it costs to run a safe beach event right now. With the pier still under construction, the show needs a barge, and the full budget covers far more than fireworks shells. We talk security, bridge operations, event setup, and why the fundraising goal sits around $130,000. The best part: the community is already close, and every dollar helps push the finish line and could even carry momentum into New Year’s Eve fireworks.We also get into the fun side of the off-season comeback plan: the Charm Crawl that sends you across dozens of Fort Myers Beach businesses all summer, the return of Mullet Madness, and Glow By The Gulf, a wellness-focused weekend with beach yoga, workouts, and vendors aimed at mind, body, and soul. If you’re searching for Fort Myers Beach events, things to do this summer, or ways to support local, this one is packed with ideas and ways to get involved.Subscribe for more island stories, share this with a friend who loves the beach, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show.What's Up FMBKaren [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Your produce shouldn’t look great at the store and fall apart in your fridge two days later. From Santini Plaza on the South End of Fort Myers Beach, we sit down with Holly from 24karrot Produce to talk about what changes when you buy fruits and vegetables that are sourced close to home and brought in without a long chain of warehouses, trucks, and mystery handling. If you care about fresh produce, local food, and supporting small business on Fort Myers Beach, this conversation is for you. We get into the real difference between a neighborhood produce stand and a big grocery run, including how cutting out the middleman can mean better flavor, less waste, and more confidence in what you’re feeding your family. Ollie shares how she and her partner Mark built a sourcing network across Florida, why the South End needed more options, and how the stand has turned into a friendly community hub where regulars stop by just to say hi. You’ll also hear what people are buying right now, from seasonal honeybells to fresh squeezed juice, plus a surprisingly popular snack move: raspberry jalapeño jelly with cream cheese and crackers. We wrap with simple, practical healthy eating tips, including why tomatoes are a great place to start if you want clean eating that still feels easy and fun. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a quick review so more neighbors can find these local stories.24karrot Produce Holly & MarkFacebook-24karrot ProduceSantini Marina Plaza2705 Estero Blvd. Ft Myers Beach, FL 33931Tuesday thru Saturday 8am to 1pmSurfside Famers Market2354 Surfside Blvd Cape Coral, FL 33991Sunday's 9am to 1pmFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

You’ve seen it on a walk: a bottle in the sand, a scrap of plastic by the dune line, fishing line tangled where it shouldn’t be. The part most people don’t see is how fast that “small” litter becomes a waterways problem, and how much coordination it takes to reverse it across a county the size of Lee County.We’re joined by Tisha Bayne, Communications and Special Events Manager at Keep Lee County Beautiful, a volunteer-based environmental nonprofit serving the community for decades. We talk about the real numbers behind beach cleanup and community cleanup work: thousands of volunteers each year, 200+ cleanups, more than 50,000 pounds of trash removed, and ongoing tree planting and native canopy restoration. You’ll also hear how their education outreach ties litter prevention and recycling to everyday behavior, especially in a high-tourism destination like Fort Myers Beach.We walk through their signature events and what they’re designed to solve, from New Year’s Day and Earth Day cleanups to the International Coastal Cleanup and Monofilament Madness, where boaters and kayakers remove discarded fishing line and marine debris from mangrove areas in Estero Bay. We also get honest about the biggest operational challenge on the island right now: parking and beach access for large volunteer groups, plus disposal logistics that require strong town support and local business partners.If you’ve been looking for volunteer opportunities in Lee County or a practical way to support environmental stewardship, this conversation gives you a clear starting point and one simple daily habit that makes a difference. Subscribe for more local nonprofit stories, share this with a friend who loves the beach, and leave a review with one action you’ll take this week to keep your corner of Lee County beautiful.Keep Lee County BeautifulTisha BaynePO Box 9244, Fort Myers, FL  33902-9244(239) [email protected] Insurance USA4450 Camino Real Way Ft Myers, FL 33966 239-567-9992100 Lovers Ln 3rd Floor Ft Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected]://www.facebook.com/Stateinsuranceusa#StateInsuranceUSA#SupportLocal #WeLoveOurClients@StateinsuranceusaFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Parking is shrinking on Fort Myers Beach, traffic is still a reality, and a lot of people are wondering what “better transportation” can actually look like in Southwest Florida. We sat down with Dominic Gemelli, Director of Lee County Transit (LeeTran), to talk about what’s working now and what’s next for public transportation in Lee County, from fixed route buses to ADA paratransit and newer Mobility On Demand service.Dominic explains how LeeTran covers a huge, sprawled county and why reliability is the real benchmark, especially for riders who depend on transit for medical appointments and daily essentials. We dig into the tools that make riding easier, including real-time arrival info, transfer center displays, and the Leafair app for tracking and fare payment. We also talk honestly about a big local misconception: many riders here aren’t choosing transit as a trendy alternative, they’re using it because they don’t have another option, which makes service quality and safety non-negotiable.Then we get specific about Fort Myers Beach. We cover the seasonal beach tram, the Route 490 park and ride trolley, and the Route 410 trolley stretching from Bowditch to Lovers Key, plus practical rider questions like what you can bring onboard for a beach day. Dominic shares updates tied to Hurricane Ian recovery, new shelters and benches, and how redevelopment may shape future routes and ridership. If you care about traffic congestion, affordable travel, and a safer way to get around Lee County, this conversation is packed with useful details and local context.If this helped you see transit differently, subscribe, share it with a neighbor, and leave a review so more Southwest Florida listeners can find it. What would make you try the bus or trolley this month?LeeTran- Lee County TransitDominic Gemelli3401 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33901(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Something is changing in how people think about health. More of us want prevention, clearer answers, and practical ways to feel better now, not just “treat” problems later. That’s why we sat down with Danielle, a wellness professional helping bring Glow By The Gulf to Fort Myers Beach, a curated health, wellness, fitness, and longevity event built for locals, visitors, and anyone who’s ready to learn without pressure. Danielle shares the personal story behind her mission: a triple negative breast cancer diagnosis at 37, BRCA-1 positive, followed by surgeries and chemotherapy and the long road back to strength. She explains how time on Fort Myers Beach helped her feel human again, and why she believes the island’s environment, community, and simple routines can support real healing. We also dig into the bigger picture: the shift toward root-cause wellness, the limits of symptom-only approaches, and why “living to 100” means nothing if the last decades don’t feel like living. We get specific about what people can expect at Glow By The Gulf: a thoughtfully chosen vendor village featuring education and services across holistic wellness and medical innovation, including gut health, clean nutrition, functional fitness, IV therapy, peptides education, recovery modalities, and more. You’ll also hear the full weekend rundown, from sunrise and sunset yoga to beach boot camp and the Santini Plaza experience, plus how to find the official event page and ways to volunteer. If you care about healthy aging, preventive health, and building a stronger Fort Myers Beach community, hit play, share this with a friend, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. After you listen, what’s one small health change you’re willing to try this week?Glow by the GulfDate: Saturday, April 18, 2026Location: Santini Plaza, Fort Myers BeachEvent InfoFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A hurricane can take your walls, your inventory system, even your address but it does not have to take your story. We pull up at Nick’s Liquors on Fort Myers Beach and talk with Nick Jr. about what it really looks like to keep a local shop alive on an island where every year brings change, and some years bring catastrophe. If you care about small business resilience, Fort Myers Beach recovery, or the behind-the-counter reality of retail, this one is for you.We start with the backstory: a liquor license bought as an investment, a real estate market crash, and a beach-day decision that turned into a 23-year run. From there, the conversation turns to Hurricane Ian storm surge and the brutal specifics of loss, including why their old spot was hit so hard and what it takes to rebuild when liquor store zoning rules limit where you can legally operate. It’s a grounded look at entrepreneurship that skips the slogans and sticks to the choices.We also get into the fun side of the business: what customers actually buy (yes, Tito’s leads by a mile), why tequila drinkers are suddenly obsessed with “no additives,” and how Nick thinks about educating customers who want something cleaner. The standout moment is the shelf of bottles recovered after Ian, now sold as verified mementos of Fort Myers Beach history, equal parts souvenir and symbol of survival.Subscribe for more local stories, share this with a friend who loves Fort Myers Beach, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Would you display a hurricane-survived bottle or drink it?Nick's LiquorsNick Dakos jr.450 Old San Carlos Blvd G107, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) 506-4077Ft Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

She walked into the ER thinking “my asthma is acting up” and walked out carrying a cancer diagnosis that changed everything. That moment kicks off a raw, hopeful conversation with our guest Nelsa about what chronic stress, grief, and nonstop caregiving can do to the body when survival mode becomes your default setting.We talk about the years after her husband’s sudden death from a brain aneurysm and how being high functioning can hide the real cost of pressure. Nelsa shares what happened on January 1, 2026, including the frightening breathing struggle, the discovery of massive fluid buildup, and the emotional shock of hearing “you have cancer.” From there, we dig into the mindset shift she’s making now: treating brain and body as one system, doing a simple daily body scan, and letting signals guide her schedule instead of overriding them.You’ll also hear the practical side of her integrative wellness plan in Naples, Florida, including nutrition changes, cutting sugars and processed foods, prioritizing one full day of rest each week, and supportive modalities like PEMF mat therapy, red light therapy with near-infrared, and a closed-loop electromagnetic current device she credits as especially meaningful for her. We also name what can’t be skipped: the emotional and psychological work, including therapy to process grief, so healing becomes more than lab numbers or protocols.If you’re searching for real talk on stress recovery, self-care for caregivers, holistic healing, and what it means to come back home to your body after a life-changing diagnosis, this conversation is for you. Subscribe for more local health and wellness stories, share this with someone who needs a steadier breath today, and leave a review to help more good neighbors find the show.REnew-YU Natural Health-BeautyDr. Greet Baestaens801 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112  (239) [email protected]#REnewYU#NaturalHealth #MindBodySoul@REnewYUNaplesFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

“Short-term rental” gets thrown around like it’s one simple strategy, but on Fort Myers Beach it can mean anything from a condotel with resort perks to a canal-front house built for three families at once. We dig into what actually drives rental performance here, starting with the question most buyers skip: what’s your real goal? If you’re a pure investor, you’ll design and buy differently than someone who just wants the home to cover operating costs, build equity, and still enjoy a week on the island.From there, we get practical about vacation rental design. We talk why bedroom count is trending up, how extended families are reshaping demand, and what layouts consistently earn better reviews, like two living areas, a separate lounge zone, and smart use of space. We also compare property types and rental models, including condotels, weekly rental condos, and monthly streets, plus how management splits and rules can change your net income.Then we zoom out to Fort Myers Beach geography and the myths that trip up out-of-town buyers. Not everyone wants to be in the middle of the “woohoo,” and Mid-Island and the south end can still book strong when the home matches the guest experience. We cover amenities that matter most, why a pool can be critical for summer and fall rentals, and the maintenance and liability choices that can quietly eat returns. If you’re shopping for a Fort Myers Beach short-term rental or planning a new build, this is the roadmap we wish every buyer had.Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach real estate insights, share this with a friend eyeing a vacation rental, and leave a review with your biggest question about buying, designing, or managing rentals on the island.Alex King Group100 Lovers Ln, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 (239) [email protected] alexkinggroup.com#AlexKingGroup#FortMyersBeachRealEstate#LuxuryRealEstate@ALEXKINGROUPFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Denied or underpaid storm claims often come down to one brutal detail: you can’t get paid for what you can’t prove. We’re launching the Before The Storm series from Fort Myers Beach with building science investigator Shane Bailey, and we get intensely practical about hurricane preparedness that actually protects your home, your health, and your finances.We talk through the unglamorous steps most people skip until it’s too late: reading your entire insurance policy, spotting exclusions, and understanding what your carrier expects you to do right after a storm. Then we get tactical about documentation for an insurance claim, including how to film your house, capture receipts and appraisals for jewelry and heirlooms, and build a usable home inventory. The goal is simple: turn “I think we had this” into clear evidence an adjuster can trust.Recovery is not just cleanup, it’s moisture control. In Florida’s heat and humidity, mold can grow fast when the AC is out, so we discuss generators, getting the building back under conditioned air, and why photos plus moisture readings can strengthen water damage claims. We also cover how to choose a qualified third-party inspector, what credentials to look for, and how to avoid storm chasers who appear after disasters.If you live in Southwest Florida or anywhere with hurricane risk, this is your reminder to prep while it’s calm. Subscribe, share this with a neighbor, and leave a review, then send us your questions or topics you want next.Building Science AuthorityShane Bailey, MC, CRT, RMS, [email protected]://buildingscienceauthority.com/Ft Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Florida’s water headlines can feel like a never-ending loop: algae, discharges, murky estuaries, and the question of why it keeps happening. We sit down with Steve Davis, Chief Science Officer at the Everglades Foundation, to map the problem back to its source and explain what it actually takes to move cleaner water the way nature intended. Along the way, we connect the dots between Lake Okeechobee, the Caloosahatchee, Florida Bay, and the communities that live on tourism, fishing, recreation, and waterfront life. Steve walks us through how South Florida’s wetlands were drained and compartmentalized over decades, why the system got pushed to dump water east and west, and how that “double whammy” of volume plus pollution damages both ecosystems and the economy. Then we get concrete about solutions: the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir south of the lake, its adjoining treatment wetlands, and why this 17,000-acre build is often described as heart bypass surgery for the Everglades. We also talk about the C-43 reservoir, why massive water infrastructure requires careful operational testing, and how storage projects replace the natural storage wetlands used to provide. We don’t skip the hard part either: funding and authorization. Everglades restoration is a state-federal partnership that needs steady annual support, plus community awareness so policies don’t undermine progress. Steve also shares how education fits in, including the Everglades Foundation’s K-12 literacy program reaching students across Florida, and why the Everglades is more than scenery it’s a trillion-dollar asset in ecosystem services like water supply, storm surge protection, tourism, and real estate value. If you care about clean water in Southwest Florida and beyond, subscribe, share this conversation, and leave a review so more neighbors can find it.The Everglades FoundationSteve Davis18001 Old Cutler Road, Suite 625 Palmetto Bay, Florida [email protected] Insurance USA4450 Camino Real Way Ft Myers, FL 33966239-567-9992100 Lovers Ln 3rd Floor Ft Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Easter weekend on Fort Myers Beach can feel like a sprint, so we head to Snug Harbor to get the simplest thing you can have on a holiday: a clear plan. Jason joins us waterfront to lay out the details that matter when the island fills up, including regular hours (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.), reservations for parties of 10 or more, and a walk-in flow designed to keep waits reasonable even when the crowd is strong. Then we get into the fun part, the Easter specials menu from Chef Rizzo. Think classic comfort done right and seafood that tastes like the Gulf: French onion soup with caramelized onions, sherry reduction, and toasted Alpine Swiss; coconut shrimp with a chili garlic orange marmalade sauce; slow-roasted prime rib with garlic mashed potatoes and creamy horseradish; Australian rack of lamb with a rosemary panko Dijon crust and minted lamb demi; and American red snapper prepared Francese style with lemon beurre blanc, saffron rice, and green beans. We also talk about a standout salad that eats like a main, a shrimp and scallop Asian noodle salad with roasted pineapple and Thai peanut vinaigrette. If you’re searching for Easter dinner on the water, Fort Myers Beach seafood, or Snug Harbor specials, this one is packed with delicious details. We wrap with what to sip and what else to do nearby, including the Ultimate Margarita, the over-the-top Ultimate Bloody Mary, and a band in the park (weather permitting), plus where to check for updates. Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach local business spotlights, share this with a friend who’s coming to the island, and leave a review so more good neighbors can find the show.Snug Harbor Restaurant645 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] #SnugHarborRestaurant#DocksideDining#FreshSeafood@snugharborwaterfrontrestaurantFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A wrecking ball took down one of Fort Myers Beach’s most recognizable entrance landmarks, but the story didn’t end in rubble. We’re joined by Earl from Restore Fort Myers Beach Arches to share the inside track on a commemorative arch planned for Bowditch Point Park and why this piece of island history still matters to residents, visitors, and families who’ve been coming here for generations. Earl walks us through the surprising aftermath of the demolition: the contractor felt so bad he personally bought and stored roughly 60 tons of the original stone, which has now been donated to the nonprofit. Engineers have reviewed the material, and the team is preparing to reuse those historic stones as facing, matched with similar stone sourced from local quarries. We also talk about how Hurricane Ian disrupted progress, and how the community’s recovery mindset is helping push the project forward. You’ll hear the latest on approvals, the development agreement process, and a big funding breakthrough supported by benefactor Alex King that helps meet county requirements and brings construction closer, potentially as soon as early next year. We also spotlight a state-approved historical marker going near the original arches site by the bridge, making Fort Myers Beach history easier to find and understand. Want to leave your mark? Brick donations for an engraved walkway are still available. Subscribe, share the show with a neighbor, and leave a quick review to help more people discover these local stories.Restore Fort Myers Beach ArchesEarl Morgan520-227-9902WEBSITEbricksrus.com/donorsite/walkthearchesAlex King Group100 Lovers Ln, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 (239) [email protected] alexkinggroup.comFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A move to paradise can start with something as small as a song and something as undeniable as two dolphins surfacing beside your boat. We’re hanging out with Fort Myers Beach neighbor and singer-songwriter Stephen Clark, a retired TV journalist who trades gray Midwest winters for Gulf sunshine, canals, and a music scene rebuilt one gig at a time.We talk about the moment Florida became real, how he narrowed his home search to three nonnegotiables, and why that kind of clarity matters when life feels heavy. Stephen also shares how growing up in an Air Force family taught him to land in a new town and quickly find his place, a skill that shows up everywhere from songwriting to building community after the hurricane.Then we get into the craft and the comedy: why he’d rather play three chords to a hundred people, why originals are rare in tourist bars, and how he writes beach lifestyle songs that feel like they were pulled straight from your vacation brain. You’ll hear the stories behind fan favorites like “Drinking Our Kids Inheritance,” “My Damn Dog Won’t Die,” and the Buffett-inspired mindset of noticing those perfect little moments and turning them into music.If you enjoy local Fort Myers Beach stories, island music, singer-songwriter interviews, and real talk about starting over, hit subscribe, share this with a friend who needs sunshine, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Stephen ClarkSinger/[email protected]@StephenClarkOnTheRoadFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A 120-year-old house is impressive. A 120-year-old house built on a 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound is something else entirely. We meet Brianna from the Mound House on Fort Myers Beach to dig into the layered history hiding in plain sight, from Indigenous life in the estuary to the pioneers who built on the same high ground for the same practical reasons. We talk through what the Mound House actually is today: a historic house museum, a Florida archaeology site, and a wildlife reservation all in one. Brianna explains how the Calusa created massive shell middens over centuries, how those mounds provided flood protection and livable space, and how this site connected to Mound Key, the Calusa capital across the bay. We also trace the property’s early 1900s chapters, including the Case family’s original build, later expansions, and why the house was restored to its 1921 look to align with historic preservation standards. Then we get into what makes a visit unforgettable right now: the first and only public archaeology lab in Southwest Florida, where guests can see collections work up close on guided tours. We also reflect on hurricane resilience, including what Hurricane Ian damaged and what the building’s elevation helped protect. If you’re searching for meaningful things to do on Fort Myers Beach, care about local history, or love behind-the-scenes museum work, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves Southwest Florida, and leave a quick review so more people can find the story under their feet.Mound HouseBreanna Vaccaro451 Connecticut St Ft Myers Beach, FL [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Fort Myers Beach can feel like a postcard, but the real story lives behind the counters, in the leases, and in the people who decide to rebuild anyway. We talk with Carrie from Leanis Casual and Swimwear on the south end about what it means for a small island business to reach a 50-year milestone and why that history is tied to Santini Plaza and the bigger comeback of the community.Carrie shares what visitors often don’t see: the grit it takes to reopen after Hurricane Ian, the challenge of seasonality, and the “big city problems” a small town suddenly has to solve. We also dig into the emotional side of recovery. For many families, Leonis isn’t just a place to buy women’s swimwear or resort clothing, it’s a memory marker. People remember shopping there with grandma, then returning years later as the grandparents themselves. That continuity matters when so much else has changed.We also get practical about planning a visit. We cover how the south end is working to improve communication, where to look for an events calendar, and what’s returning around the island from farmers markets to restaurants to marina services like gas and bait. If you want a grounded, local look at Fort Myers Beach recovery, small business resilience, and what’s actually happening at Santini Plaza, this conversation is for you.If you enjoyed this, subscribe, share it with a friend who loves the island, and leave us a quick review so more people can find the south-end story.Leanis Casual and SwimwearCarrie Smith7205 Estero Blvd, Suite 721, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Golf carts used to mean a slow ride around a course. On Fort Myers Beach, they’ve become real transportation, and the rules, safety features, and technology have caught up fast. We’re joined by Dan Allers from Island Carts FMB and The Cart Shack to talk about what’s actually street legal, what buyers get wrong, and how a personal family moment sparked a business built for island life.We dig into the difference between a traditional golf cart and an LSV (low speed vehicle) in Florida: the DOT windshield, lights, turn signals, seat belts, licensing, and the 25 mph limit that makes it legal on many 35 mph roads. Dan explains why converting a golf cart into an LSV can be more expensive and complicated than people expect, and why more gated communities are now requiring insured LSVs for liability reasons.Dan also shares the real-world business side of Fort Myers Beach recovery. They grew a rental fleet quickly, Hurricane Ian changed everything, and the pivot back into rentals plus launching the sales shop became part of rebuilding. We close with practical shopping advice on modern cart brands, American-made manufacturing, and the biggest upgrade most owners feel immediately: lithium golf cart batteries that drop weight, charge faster, and deliver steady power with far less maintenance.Subscribe for more Good Neighbor stories, share this with someone shopping for a street-legal golf cart, and leave a review so more people can find the show.The Cart Shack17649 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers Beach, FL [email protected] Carts FMB(844) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunlight, salt air, and three stories that won’t let go. We bring Fort Myers Beach true crime out of the rumor mill and into the record, following the clues from a 1953 double homicide to a dream voyage cut short in the Bahamas and a neighborhood murder that hid in plain sight.First, we revisit the Galloway murders. Newspapers once called it random, but a buried detective magazine hinted at a Detroit robbery, a controversial pardon, and a long shadow that may have stretched to the island’s north end. We connect the Mermaid Club, a cash-flashing drifter, a terrified teen, and a midnight traffic stop that turned deadly—then ask whether the simplest narrative obscured a targeted hit.From there, the tide carries us to the Clea 3. Two locals saved for years to sail the Bahamas in 1980, only for a dinghy to surface with a body and a second sailor to vanish without a trace. With drug routes near Norman’s Cay and conflicting accounts from authorities, this case dwells in the uneasy space where evidence sinks and jurisdiction blurs. Was it chance, or did they witness something they were never meant to see?Back on Randy Lane, we track the details that cracked a 2002 killing: bricks that matched, rope that matched, a gun near the dock, and a month of silence broken by a niece states away who asked the right questions. A hung jury gave way to a swift conviction, and the myth of the perfect plan collapsed under the weight of the bay itself. We close with a preview of the Lois Ann Reese case, a modern story less about whodunit and more about why—a stolen identity, a vacation friendship, and the unraveling of a life that once looked ordinary.If you’re drawn to coastal history, cold cases, and the way communities remember, you’ll find fresh leads, sharp context, and questions that push past tidy headlines. Subscribe, share this episode with a fellow true crime fan, and leave a review telling us which case you want us to dig into next.Estero Island Historic Society161 Bay Road Fort Myers Beach, Florida, 33931esteroislandhistoricsociety.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A bar on Fort Myers Beach looks effortless when it is done right, but Ruby tells us what is really happening behind the scenes. We’re at Nervous Nellies on the water, watching the boats roll by, talking with the front-of-house and bar manager who builds schedules, trains staff, and keeps the whole operation moving when the dining room is buzzing.Ruby also gets personal about Hurricane Ian and what displacement felt like for workers who make the island run. She shares why she left, what she focused on while the restaurant rebuilt, and why hospitality kept pulling her back: the fast pace, the people, and the work family that makes long shifts feel worth it. If you care about Fort Myers Beach restaurants, local recovery stories, or what makes a great guest experience for travelers from around the world, her “restaurant motor” analogy will stick with you.Then we get into St. Patrick’s Day at Nervous Nellies, one of the biggest Fort Myers Beach events of the season. Ruby previews live music, festive outfits, Irish egg rolls, traditional corned beef and cabbage, and a stacked bar with Guinness plus themed specials like the Lucky Leprechaun shot and the Shamrock Rita. It is part party, part community meetup, and fully a reminder that good hospitality is built on preparation and heart.If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find these Fort Myers Beach stories. What is your favorite St. Patrick’s Day food or drink?Nervous Nellie's1131 First St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 (239) [email protected]#NervousNelliesFMB #LiveMusic#WaterfrontDining#HappyHour@NervousNelliesFMBFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Fort Myers Beach is changing so fast that even longtime locals can forget what used to sit on a familiar corner. From storm loss to new construction, the island’s “before” can start to fade unless someone saves it on purpose. We’re at the Roxie in Times Square with Ellie Bunting from the Estero Island Historic Society, talking about how to preserve Fort Myers Beach history after Hurricane Ian while the community rebuilds. We get into the Historic Society’s public programs and what they reveal about the island’s past and future, including a recent gathering with representatives from multiple island churches and an upcoming talk that looks back at the 1920s, when development reshaped the beach in lasting ways. Allie also shares updates on their popular murder mystery series and a new project to turn those stories into a book, proving that local history can be fun, social, and easy to join. From there, we dig into what recovery leaves behind: the “Lost Icons” book documenting businesses lost during the storm, the emotional pull of places people miss, and a creative plan for a walkable “what used to be here” trail. The idea uses small sculptures at former landmark sites paired with signage and QR codes that bring up photos and context, creating a simple, powerful way to connect memory with place. We also talk about preserving handmade post-Ian street signs through posters and custom mugs, plus how residents can donate photos or meaningful artifacts to help fill in the record. Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach stories, share this with a neighbor who loves the island, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show. What Fort Myers Beach landmark do you miss most?Estero Island Historic Society161 Bay Road Fort Myers Beach, Florida, 33931esteroislandhistoricsociety.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Fort Myers Beach real estate has a reputation for being seasonal, but the truth is more interesting and a lot more useful if you’re planning a move, a second home, or an investment property. We sit down with Alex King to map the island’s real sales cycle, from the winter surge to the post-Easter wave that runs into late May, plus the summer months when buyers slow down enough to actually think and still make serious offers. If you’ve ever heard “it’s dead in the summer,” this conversation challenges that with on-the-ground context from active transactions.We also talk about what makes buying on an island different. Fort Myers Beach attracts people who show up for a few days, fall in love at an open house, and decide to buy before they ever planned a wire transfer. That reality affects escrow, inspection timing, and how buyers should prepare if they want to move fast without making reckless decisions. Alex explains why smaller initial escrow deposits can be common here and how the process often becomes more structured after inspections.Then we get practical about lifestyle and numbers: personal use versus rental income, how blended use is becoming the norm, and why high-performing rentals can cover operating costs or more. Alex shares what he’s seeing with younger buyers, new spec home builders adding fresh inventory across multiple price points, and why neighborhood personality matters block by block on Fort Myers Beach. If you’re trying to figure out when to shop, what to buy, and how to think about long-term value on the coast, this is the roadmap.Subscribe for more Fort Myers Beach market updates, share this with a friend dreaming of island life, and leave a review to help more buyers and locals find the show. What part of the Fort Myers Beach market do you want us to break down next?Alex King Group100 Lovers Ln, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 (239) [email protected] alexkinggroup.com#AlexKingGroup#FortMyersBeachRealEstate#LuxuryRealEstate@ALEXKINGROUPFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Hunger in Southwest Florida isn’t always visible. It’s the server between shifts, the starting officer paying off a car repair, the retired nurse raising a grandchild and splitting blood pressure pills to make the grocery budget work. We invited the Harry Chapin Food Bank to share how a community-powered model rescues millions of pounds of food and gets it where it’s needed most—fast, fresh, and with dignity.We walk through the organization’s 43-year journey from a small co-op of pantries to a regional leader moving 38.5 million pounds of food a year. You’ll hear why the name Harry Chapin still matters, how mobile pantries and 175 partner agencies keep neighborhoods fed, and what real food insecurity looks like when high rents, healthcare costs, and hurricanes hit at once. We also dig into the new Hunger Action Center in Fort Myers, built for efficiency and respect, complete with a client-facing pantry where guests can get food and connect to rent assistance, job training, and basic health checks.Collier County takes center stage too. Despite its wealth, one in eight residents will face hunger this year, which is why a Naples-area satellite will link to the Fort Myers mothership to expand cold storage, volunteer opportunities, and rapid response during storms and red tide events. Throughout, we focus on dignity-first service, fresh produce and proteins, and the logistics that turn surplus into nourishment.Looking to help or need support yourself? Head to harrychapinfoodbank.org to find food, sign up to volunteer, or explore partnerships. And if you don’t have internet access, dial (239) 334-7007 to get connected to nearby distributions. If this conversation moved you, subscribe, share it with a neighbor, and leave a review so more people can find their way to help and hope.Harry Chapin Food Bank of SWFLRobert LeBerFort Myers Distribution Center3760 Fowler St.Fort Myers, FL 33901Collier County Center3940 Prospect Ave. #101Naples, FL 34104(239) 334-7007fighthunger@harrychapinfoodbank.orgharrychapinfoodbank.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A fifty-cent toll changed the fate of Fort Myers Beach. When early developers Thomas Phillips and Jack Delisle couldn’t get county funding for a bridge, they sold bonds, built their own, and rolled open a brand-new future in May 1921. From that moment on, everything accelerated: beachside casinos, bathhouses, and a handful of hotels welcomed the first waves of visitors, while locals still steered work around the tides. You’ll hear how cars once drove along the wide, hard-packed sand to reach the southern stretches, and why the first traffic jam arrived almost as soon as the toll booth did.We dig into the storms that reshaped the map and the mindset. Hurricanes in 1921, 1926, and 1928 damaged roads and spans, yet the island pushed ahead with big, distinctive ideas. Phillips’s Arches rose in 1925 as a ceremonial gateway to a waterfront vision called San Carlos on the Gulf, supported by seawalls you can still spot. A new direct road from Gladiolus and McGregor to the beach slashed travel time and supercharged tourism. The 1928 swing bridge—hand-cranked into the 1950s—became both a bottleneck and a beloved landmark, pivoting open for shrimp fleets and stalling cars in long, salty lines. It’s an unforgettable picture: arches framing a low steel span, masts bristling in the channel, and a community learning to share space between leisure and labor.We also chart the working water’s heartbeat. Before shrimp took over, mullet powered the economy, smoked and dried into hearty staples that fed families and markets. As hospitality grew—Gulf Shore Grill, Silver Sands, and other early names—the island balanced grit with charm. A few 1921 cottages still stand as proof of sturdy craft and stubborn hope. The larger pattern becomes clear: a cycle of boom and bust, progress and pause, that carried Fort Myers Beach from the roaring 20s into the quiet rebuild of the 30s and the demands of the war years. It’s not just history; it’s a guide to resilience and smart access, the forces that still decide how this shoreline lives.If this story sparked a memory or a question, share it with us, then subscribe, leave a quick review, and send the episode to someone who loves coastal history. Your notes help us decide which corners of the island’s past to open next.Estero Island Historic Society161 Bay Road Fort Myers Beach, Florida, 33931esteroislandhistoricsociety.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Dolphins surface, the sky turns copper, and a high-deck cruiser glides from the back bay toward the Gulf—this is where a community’s comeback takes shape. We sit down with Scott and Rob of FinnSeeker Coastal Cruises, two longtime friends who turned a storm-shelved dolphin boat into a polished, family-first experience for Fort Myers Beach. They walk us through the real work behind the romance: buying and restoring the vessel, navigating marina changes from Fish Tales to Joe’s Dockside behind Pinchers, and building a guest journey that blends safety, storytelling, and easy online booking.Across our time together, we explore how a simple two-hour cruise can power local recovery. Morning and afternoon wildlife tours focus on dolphins, birds, and manatees in calm back bays, while the sunset run edges into the Gulf to chase color when the horizon cooperates. Guests can bring their own coolers, kids under three ride free, and a mic’d first mate shares local history and marine facts that make the scenery come alive. The pair have also added a fresh twist for families: the home of Mini Finny, an interactive augmented reality moment that turns snapshots into smiles without distracting from the water’s magic.What stands out is intent. Scott’s years managing boats on the island and Rob’s creative background feed a clear promise: safer high-deck views, clean navigation for wildlife spotting, and a steady crew that treats every cruise like a neighborly handshake. Private charters for condo groups, wedding parties, and celebrations widen the impact, sending guests back to local restaurants and hotels with salt in their hair and stories to tell. If you’re curious about the best time to see dolphins, where the Gulf meets the sky at its calmest, or how small businesses are rebuilding the island experience, this conversation is made for you.Ready to ride along? Book at finnseeker.com, support local operators, and share this episode with a friend who needs a sunset. Subscribe for more neighbor-made stories, and leave a review to help more people find Fort Myers Beach at its best.FinnSeeker Coastal CruisesRobb First & Scott Stearns18400 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A beach town doesn’t just rebuild with lumber and plans—it rebuilds with food, laughter, and neighbors who show up. We sit down with Scott and Trina, the duo behind Detroit Dawgs on Fort Myers Beach, to trace how a Midwest classic became a coastal staple and how a “let’s try it” plan grew into a full-time love story with the community.We start with roots: travel nursing, hurricane relief, and the moment a phone call turned a long shot into a prime spot on Estero Boulevard. Then we dig into the flavor map. You’ll hear exactly what makes a real Detroit Coney—natural casing Kobel dog, National Coney Island chili, onions, mustard—plus the Flint-style twist that sparks friendly arguments. A Chicago local even stepped behind the window to perfect their garden-loaded build, which now flies out the door. From Big Dawg double burgers to Slim Jim-inspired sandwiches, crab rangoon to Philly steak quesadillas, their menu proves a hot dog stand can also be a playground for great food.Behind the window, speed meets soul. Scott obsesses over heat and presentation; Trina keeps the joy intact, reminding everyone that a beach day and a good dog beat stress every time. The result is consistent, friendly service, whether you’re calling ahead from traffic or grabbing breakfast on Friday through Sunday. Community runs through every detail: Michigan staples like Faygo and Better Made chips, colorful seating that invites lingering, and a Friday tradition where one dollar from every dog supports the local fireworks fund.As Shrimp Fest rolls in, they roll out shrimp tacos and sweet Thai chili bacon shrimp skewers, proving that creativity and comfort can share the same counter. It’s a story about authentic Detroit Coney dawgs, sure—but also about turning regulars into friends, and friends into family, one order at a time. If this episode made you hungry for more, follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review so others can discover their next favorite bite by the beach.Detroit DawgsScott & Trina Legas1375 Estero Blvd , Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(248) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Step onto the dock with us and feel the Fort Myers Beach breeze as we tour Snug Harbor alongside Chef Rizzo. We wander the waterfront, talk shop about seafood handled the old-school way, and chase the kind of bay views that turn an ordinary meal into a memory. From dolphins putting on a show to boats pulling up right to the venue, this is coastal dining as a full-senses experience.We dig into the shrimp parade that lights up the island each year, previewing a lineup that includes peel and eat shrimp, classic shrimp cocktail, tequila-kissed plates, comforting shrimp and grits, and a once‑a‑year gumbo you won’t find any other weekend. Chef Rizzo opens up about the craft behind their flavor: for forty years, Snug Harbor has unloaded its own boats and cut fish in-house, a dock-to-plate discipline that keeps texture firm, taste clean, and menus honest. That commitment to freshness sets them apart in a market where shortcuts are easy and quality shows.There’s a lot more to love. After Hurricane Ian, Snug Harbor rebuilt with a flexible tiki space designed for weddings, birthdays, bachelorettes, and baby showers—events for 60 to 120 with tenting, heaters, and sides that drop when weather rolls in. Most days, the restaurant floats right over the water with almost every seat on the bay; locals swear by Table One for an “action view” of the channel where pirate ships glide and dolphins surface. We keep the tone bright, the conversation neighborly, and the focus on what makes a place feel like home: good people, real seafood, and a setting that refuses to be ordinary.If the Gulf calls your name, queue this tour, mark your calendar for the shrimp parade, and come hungry for the catch. Subscribe for more local stories, share with a friend who loves waterfront dining, and leave a quick review to help other beach lovers find us.Snug Harbor Restaurant645 Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] #SnugHarborRestaurant#DocksideDining#FreshSeafood@snugharborwaterfrontrestaurantFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Every lot on Fort Myers Beach tells a different story—and that’s exactly why building or buying here demands a smarter playbook. We pull back the curtain on island new construction, the realities of flood and wind insurance, and how local permitting truly works when staff, forms, and standards shift in real time. From navigating setbacks and drainage plans to decoding rental rules across the island’s distinct zones, we map out the decisions that make or break a coastal purchase.We share a favorite win: guiding a savvy out‑of‑state investor from curiosity to a closed, off‑market land deal that aligned with his goals. That journey highlights our approach—educate first, design to the lot you have, and partner with lenders and insurers who understand coastal risk. Appraisals can get tricky with knockdowns, discounted builder inventory, and micro‑market comps, so we show how to advocate with facts and keep financing live without crossing the line. The theme is constant momentum: complete permitting packages, proactive problem‑solving, and relationships that get the right person on the phone when a submittal stalls.You’ll also hear why higher‑end buyers are reshaping the island’s future, fueling demand for Gulf‑front homes, better restaurants, and a stronger service base. We talk first steps for newcomers—a guided tour that ties lifestyle, rental categories, and neighborhood character to a smart search plan. Whether you’re elevating a legacy home, choosing between a drainage swale and a buried system, or weighing condo vs lot, we lay out the practical moves that reduce risk and speed up results on Fort Myers Beach.If you’re serious about building or buying on the island, hit follow, share this with a friend who’s Florida‑curious, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show. Your questions shape future episodes—what’s the one step you want a deeper breakdown on?Alex King Group - Premiere Plus RealtyAlex King / Marc Taglieri / Justin O'Hara100 Lovers Ln. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

More years are meaningless if you can’t use them. We dig into the difference between chasing longevity and building a healthy lifespan you can feel—walking stairs without pain, lifting groceries with ease, and getting on the floor with grandkids and standing back up strong.With Dr. Greet’s guidance, we separate hype from evidence. We call out the buzzwords that muddy judgment—anti-aging, age reversal, detox for everything—and highlight what actually moves the needle: strength training to protect muscle, quality sleep to reset your brain and hormones, and balanced nutrition with enough protein to rebuild tissue. We talk about biological age tests as tools for trends, not diagnoses, and we name the supplements with real support—omega-3s, vitamin D when needed, and creatine—while explaining why many “stacks” are mostly marketing.You’ll hear why genes are not your fate, how lifestyle often writes 80 percent of your story, and the simplest ways to steady blood sugar and energy with post‑meal walks. If you have only ten minutes a day, we show you how to split it for maximum return. We cover safe experimentation—one change at a time, measurable, and time‑boxed—and the red flags to avoid: black‑market sourcing, high‑dose peptides without long‑term data, and pricey clinic packages without transparency. Finally, we offer practical next steps, from strength three days a week to protecting your bedtime and getting labs before you buy another pill.Ready to trade hacks for habits and build a body that lasts? Press play, share this with someone you love, and tell us the first change you’ll make today. If the conversation helped, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it on so more neighbors can feel stronger, sleep deeper, and live better.REnew-YU Natural Health-BeautyDr. Greet Baestaens 801 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112 (239) [email protected]#REnewYU#NaturalHealth#MindBodySoul@REnewYUNaplesFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunshine, real talk, and a path to the front door. We sit down with loan officer Jonathon Steele from Premier Mortgage Resources to demystify today’s Southwest Florida housing market and share practical steps that help renters become owners. From post‑Ian realities to shifting inventory and calmer rates than last year’s peak, we unpack what actually moves your monthly payment—and why chasing yesterday’s 2% era is a distraction.Jonathon brings the perspective of a second‑generation pro who traded the classroom for closings, pairing clear explanations with local know‑how. We explore how insurance, taxes, and neighborhood specifics shape affordability on the Gulf, why Florida’s demand story differs from national headlines, and how to think in terms of payment comfort rather than rate envy. If you’ve been waiting for a perfect moment, you’ll hear why timing the market is less important than aligning your budget, goals, and life stage.We also get into nuts‑and‑bolts options for first‑time buyers: FHA’s 3.5% down, pairing loans with Florida and Lee County down payment assistance, and strategies to qualify when savings are tight but income is solid. Jonathan shares stress‑testing tips for insurance, what to ask before you fall in love with a listing, and how to use preapproval to move fast when the right home appears. Between family life, church community, and the everyday joy of not shoveling snow, this conversation shows why the coast keeps calling—and how to answer it responsibly.Ready to take the next step toward homeownership on the Gulf? Listen now, subscribe for more local stories and expert guidance, and leave a quick review to tell us your biggest buying question. Your feedback helps good neighbors find their way home.Premier Mortgage ResourceJonathon Steele(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Boats, sunshine, and a blue-sky forecast can hide the most dangerous risk on the water: what you don’t know. We sit down with the Coast Guard Auxiliary from Fort Myers Beach to explore how prevention, education, and a few smart habits do more to save lives than any siren or spotlight. From slow speed zones that protect manatees to free vessel safety checks that catch expired gear before it matters, this guide pulls back the curtain on what keeps families safe and search-and-rescue calls down.We walk through the realities of boating in Southwest Florida—tides, currents, and intercoastal markers that differ from “up north.” If you rent a vacation home with a boat or bring guests who’ve never read a channel marker, this conversation is your shortcut to safer trips. You’ll hear about the “Suddenly in Command” seminar that prepares non-captains to call for help and take the helm, why self-attesting your safety gear isn’t enough, and how a simple life jacket choice can be the difference between a scare and a tragedy. We also share hard-won lessons from real incidents, the ego traps that snag experienced skippers, and the practical culture shifts that make safety automatic—even on hot, crowded days.Behind the scenes, the Auxiliary backfills critical roles at the Fort Myers Beach station: radio watch, maintenance, even galley support when crews are stretched. Their message is simple and urgent—set your expectation to “have fun and come back,” then build the plan to match. Ready to reduce risk, protect wildlife, and boat with confidence in Fort Myers Beach? Hit play, then sign up for a class or book a free vessel safety check. If this helped you, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with the boater who needs a nudge toward safer habits.U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - Flotilla 91 D7Daniel Eaton-Public Affairs OfficerDave Massey-Public Education Officer,For Search and Rescue EmergenciesCall 239-463-5754 or 911. On the water VHF Channel 16For non-emergency questions call the Auxiliary 239-690-6780.www.aux91fmb.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A coastline that once stretched 40 miles farther west. Cities made of shells. A prophet who promised to rise again—and a hurricane that stole his tomb. We open our new series by tracing the improbable birth of Fort Myers Beach, from shifting sands and mangrove roots to the people who carved a life from tides, storms, and stubborn hope.We start with the island’s geology, where ice ages and currents stitched together a barrier of sand that never stops moving. That living landscape set the terms for the Calusa, a maritime powerhouse who built Mound Key and other shell mounds into elevated hubs, canals, and ceremonial spaces. Spanish contact unraveled their world through disease and enslavement, and in the quiet that followed, Cuban ranchos turned the shoreline into a seasonal engine for Havana’s fish markets.As surveys unlocked homesteading, a new chapter took root on Calusa middens. The Mound House stands on layered history, even as other mounds were quarried to pave roads—an irrevocable loss buried under asphalt. Enter the Koreshians, followers of Cyrus Teed, whose hollow-earth cosmology fueled very real industry: cement works, power generation, land deals, and cultural events that shaped Estero and the island’s early development. Their leader’s death and the 1921 storm left tangible myths and missing markers, but their organizational footprint endured in deeds and place names.Enterprise matured through Sanders Boatyard, the island’s first supply line, and the 1912 Beach Hotel, with its pier that finally connected visitors to shore. For decades it was the heart of community life, proof that hospitality could thrive at the edge of the Gulf. Along the way we sit with the realities of life before air conditioning—mosquitoes, yellow fever risks, and farms that rose and fell with freezes and hurricanes. The throughline is resilience: a rhythm of boom and lull that still defines barrier-island living.If you love Florida history, coastal archaeology, the Calusa, Koreshian State Historic Site, or the hidden stories beneath Fort Myers Beach, you’ll feel right at home. Hit play, then share the moment that surprised you most, subscribe for the next chapter in our series, and leave a quick review to help more curious neighbors find us.Estero Island Historic Society161 Bay Road Fort Myers Beach, Florida, 33931esteroislandhistoricsociety.orgFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunshine, salt, and a plate full of decisions—that’s the sweet spot we find at Nervous Nellie’s on Fort Myers Beach. We pull up a chair on the bayside and chase two very different margaritas while lining up crispy shrimp and blackened mahi tacos to see what truly hits that Tuesday stride.First, we break down the millionaire margarita, a masterclass in balance: fresh lime and lemon for clean acidity, agave for gentle sweetness, and a hint of orange liqueur to round the edges. The inverted tequila bottle isn’t just flair; it deepens the drink as you go, turning each sip into a new moment. Then we switch gears to the house infused margarita, where pineapple, strawberry, and orange soak for five days to build a soft, tropical profile. We talk about how to avoid cloying sweetness, why patience matters in infusion, and what home bartenders can borrow from this approach.On the taco side, boom boom shrimp brings craveable crunch and creamy heat, brightened by pico and anchored by flour tortillas. We explore why texture contrast makes or breaks a fried seafood taco, and how beans and rice reset the palate between bites. The blackened mahi tacos deliver a different kind of satisfaction: spice-kissed fish with red cabbage snap and a smoky chipotle aioli that complements rather than covers. We get into the details—char versus dryness, cabbage for structure, and how acid ties coastal flavors together.If you’re planning your next taco run on Fort Myers Beach, this tasting tour serves as a simple playbook: start bright with citrus, pair sauce with crunch, and let fresh toppings do honest work. Subscribe for more local food finds, share this with a taco‑loving friend, and drop your pick: millionaire margarita, infused fruit, shrimp crunch, or mahi spice?Nervous Nellie's-Ft Myers Beach1131 1st St, Fort Myers Beach, FL, United States, 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

A century-old cottage with a six-foot storm line, a rare rain barrel that once caught every drop, and neighbors who refused to let their stories wash away—this is how Fort Myers Beach remembers. We sat with Janet Gottlieb and Ellie Bunting of the Estero Island Historical Society to trace the island’s long arc from the Calusa empire to Hurricane Ian, and to show how real preservation happens: one artifact, one photo, one shared memory at a time.We walk through the island’s boom-and-bust rhythms, the shock of losing paper archives to storm surge, and the grassroots recovery that followed. Ellie’s book, The Lost Icons of Fort Myers Beach, turned grief into action and funded new floors, walls, and storage while the community brought in hand-painted street signs, salvaged photos, and home videos. With help from FGCU, decades of tapes and oral histories are being digitized. WGCU is gathering family beach footage for an upcoming documentary, proving that everyday joy can be powerful public history.You’ll hear about a revitalized programming slate: decade-by-decade exhibits from the 1800s to 1920, live “murder mystery” events based on true island lore, and public talks that connect culture, faith, and community resilience. We also highlight partnerships with Matanzas Pass Preserve and the Mound House, where visitors can stand on Calusa shell mounds, trace ancient canals, and see how water shaped survival long before utilities and condos. For newcomers and longtime residents, this is a field guide to belonging—where to go, what to read, and how to pitch in.If you care about Fort Myers Beach history, there’s a role for you. Bring artifacts, share photos, record a story, become a member, or shop custom mugs featuring historic street names. Hit play, then come see the cottage, walk the trails when they reopen, and help us keep the island’s memory alive. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a neighbor who loves this place as much as you do.Estero Island Historical SocietyEllie Bunting and Janet Gottlieb161 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach, Florida, [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Want to know what it really takes to bring back the places you miss on Fort Myers Beach? We sit down in Times Square with Dennis Wagaman of The Pier Group to pull back the curtain on commercial rebuilding—how professionals balance passion, policy, and pro formas to deliver restaurants, retail, and gathering spots that last.Dennis explains why “rebuilders” face a unique cost stack on the island: construction budgets that hit eight figures for a 20,000 sq ft mixed-use building, plus engineering, permitting, and compliance with modern flood codes that push active uses upstairs. We walk through the comp plan friction that slows projects, how insurance and interest shape feasibility, and why end-value math dictates land pricing. If the numbers don’t work, nothing gets built—no matter how much goodwill is in the room.We also explore smarter ways to make projects pencil out. From landowner–rebuilder partnerships that trade a quick sale for shared upside, to targeted entitlements that align community goals with investor risk, Dennis lays out practical paths that keep beloved local brands in the mix. You’ll hear why the realistic timeline from agreement to opening often stretches to 2.5–3 years, what competing beaches offer by-right that Fort Myers Beach can learn from, and how capital markets are slowly thawing after a season of extreme caution.If you care about walkable streets, local flavor, and a resilient coastal economy, this is your inside guide to how deals get done. Listen for plainspoken insights on costs, codes, timelines, market rents, and the partnerships that can turn vacant lots into places you’ll love to linger. Subscribe, share with a neighbor, and leave a review with one thing you want to see return to mid-island—we’re building this future together.Dennis Wagaman, REALTOR®The Pier GroupGulf Coast Investment Property Specialist239.940.7749dennis@thepiergroup.netThePierGroup.netServing: Fort Myers Beach, Southwest Florida & Gulf CoastAffiliated with: Realty One Group MVPFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunlight on the bay, a breeze at your back, and a captain who turned crisis into momentum—this is the story behind Pelican Bay Charters on Fort Myers Beach. We sit down with Captain Rob to trace his journey from Indiana winters to Gulf Coast waters, and how Hurricane Ian reshaped not just the shoreline, but his entire business model. What started as intimate private charters now spans BYOB tiki cruises, relaxed sightseeing tours, and crowd-pleasing sunset trips led by a team of captains guests rave about.We dig into the moments that defined the pivot: boats pressed into service for evacuations and supply runs, months of near-zero income, and the hard choice to reinvent with daily public tours that welcomed first-timers and locals alike. Rob shares the differences between the tiki vibe—music, conversation, and easy laughter—and the calmer cadence of sunset and dolphin-spotting cruises, including a route to the Sanibel lighthouse for perfect waterline photos. Wildlife remains a highlight, with respectful dolphin watching that keeps the magic intact without making empty promises.Community threads through every story. Rob’s steady support for veterans and first responders, partnerships with local businesses, and a captain roster that guests know by name all reflect a deeper mission: bring people together on the water. Between notes on family life, youth soccer weekends, and the joy of quiet time at home, we swap tips for newcomers—wander Times Square and Old San Carlos, grab a bite, and let the pier-side atmosphere set the mood before the sun sinks into the Gulf.Ready to plan your own slice of paradise? Book a public tour or private charter, say hello to the crew, and decide: tiki energy or sunset calm? If this conversation brightened your day, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more good neighbors can find their way to the water.Pelican Bay Charters LLCCaptain Rob JonesMoss Marina 450 Harbor Ct, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931Joe’s Dockside Marina 18400 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) 744-7376pelicanbaycharters.comFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Tired of juggling seven logins just to answer one jobsite question? We sit down with the founders of ForgeOPs, a construction platform built by a 20-year GC, a veteran developer, and a systems pro who turned hard-earned lessons into a cleaner, faster way to run projects. Together we unpack why scattered tools stall momentum, how last-minute owner changes ripple through schedules, and what it takes to keep the field and office aligned without drowning in emails.Bids, takeoffs, RFIs, specs, and jobsite coordination all live under one roof in Forge, organized the way projects actually flow. Subs get streamlined invite-to-bid access and faster proposal workflows; GCs gain a real-time view across trades, documentation, and coordination. For small contractors, the payoff is looking bigger without adding headcount: reliable lead generation, fewer clicks, and clear next steps. For larger teams, it’s the control and visibility that cut rework, compress timelines, and keep margins intact.Adoption often breaks good software, so we dig into how ForgeOPs lowers that barrier with a familiar interface, white‑glove onboarding when needed, and self-serve guides for tech-savvy crews. Pricing flexes with your stage: bundled end-to-end packages or targeted a la carte modules that grow as you do. We also talk seasonality, storm recovery, and labor swings in markets like Southwest Florida, and why a single source of truth turns volatility into manageable operations instead of chaos.Curious whether consolidation is worth it for your shop? Hear how organization becomes the first visible win, why fewer clicks matter more than you think, and what a clean, job-structured data model can do for ROI. Want to see it in action? Email [email protected] to book a consult or demo, and if you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a contractor who needs less chaos, and leave us a quick review to help others find it.ForgeOpsNaples, Florida(555) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunshine tells one story here, grit tells the other. We sit down with Alex King—whose family roots on Fort Myers Beach stretch back to 1958—to explore how legacy, technology, and community leadership helped reshape an island market after Hurricane Ian. Alex walks us through his path from national marketing and early Trulia/Zillow adoption to building a team that sells more than listings: they sell a lifestyle defined by boats at dusk, long beach walks, and neighbors who show up when it counts.The conversation gets practical fast. Alex breaks down the 50% rule, permitting must-knows, and how to evaluate remodels versus rebuilds with real numbers in mind. He explains why renovated ranch homes on canals are suddenly hot, why true spec homes remain scarce, and how pricing is moving across categories. Most surprising: the buyer profile. A younger wave—late 30s and 40s, often remote workers—is fueling demand for four and five bedrooms, flexible spaces, and modern elevation standards. That shift is changing how streets look and how residents live, with a clear knock-on effect: more restaurants, more events, more reasons to gather.We also unpack the power of events in recovery. Through the King Family Foundation, Alex and his team doubled down on sponsoring get-togethers that brought smiles back to the island and reconnected neighbors worn down by the rebuild. If you’re thinking about moving here, Alex shares a simple roadmap: rent first, explore neighborhoods, attend open houses, and treat learning the market like earning a master’s degree. When you’re ready, lean on local pros who know flood maps, builders, and the real cost of coastal resilience.Ready to understand Fort Myers Beach real estate from the inside out? Hit follow, share this with a friend who dreams of coastal living, and leave a review with your biggest question—we might feature it on a future show.Alex King Group - Premiere Plus RealtyAlex King100 Lovers Ln. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Boats gliding past the deck, live music drifting from the park, and a kitchen turning out plates that taste like a celebration—this is the bayside energy we love. We sit down with General Manager Danny Timothy of Nervous Nellie’s to trace a remarkable journey from storm damage to a full-scale comeback and two record seasons. Danny takes us inside the 15-month rebuild after Hurricane Ian, the tough calls that followed, and the surprising shift toward stronger year-round traffic on Fort Myers Beach.You’ll hear how a two-story waterfront restaurant became a community anchor: sponsoring the Bayside Concert Series, supporting the Fort Myers Beach Art Association through Putt n’ Pub, and joining local favorites like the Mrs. Roper Crawl. Danny shares his 25-year path with the restaurant group, the decision to move from the Melbourne area, and how sister spots like Cantina Laredo and Walk-On’s helped create a backbone for recovery. This is a story about systems and people, but also about the small moments—like a pirate ship cruising by as dinner hits the table—that make the bay feel like home.We dig into the must-try menu hits: the lobster grilled cheese at lunch, the crowd-pleasing Sailor’s Delight with shrimp, scallops, fish, and lobster sherry sauce, plus a piña colada bread pudding that seals the deal. Drinks keep it fun with Nervous Nellie’s Rum Punch and the aptly named Frozen Iguana, a melon-tinged margarita topped with gummy iguanas. If tacos are your love language, they’ve got mahi, grouper, haddock, and more ready for your Tuesday plans. Quieter than the beach but rich with views, this bayside spot doubles as a local hub and a visitor’s must-stop.Ready to plan your visit? Find Nervous Nellie’s at nervousnellies.net and on social as Nervous Nellies FMB. If this conversation made you hungry for more local stories, tap follow, share with a neighbor, and leave a quick review to help more listeners discover the beach’s best come-back tales.Nervous Nellie's-Ft Myers BeachDanny Timothy1131 1st St, Fort Myers Beach, FL, United States, 33931(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

The storm took the building, but the community kept the art alive. Join us as we sit down with Sylvia Montgomery and Suzan Lanz from the Fort Myers Beach Art Association to explore how a 1951 plein air tradition weathered Hurricane Ian, found a bright new home at Cypress Square, and transformed recovery into a creative movement. From a cozy hut on Denora Street to a modern gallery buzzing with workshops, rotating shows, and neighborly energy, this story is about resilience with a paintbrush.We dive into the programs that turned occasional visitors into committed members: quick-hit lunch and learns, open paints, gentle-but-honest critiques, a Sunday art book club, and playful classes like “Bossy Pants” that spark experimentation. You’ll hear how membership doubled, why demographics shifted toward full-time locals and remote workers, and what that means for year-round programming in Fort Myers, Bonita, Punta Gorda, and the beach. Along the way, we highlight community partnerships that amplify impact—Women’s Club events, Lions Club Shrimp Festival murals and t-shirts, library exhibits, greeting cards at the Islander, and a growing First Friday art walk that now starts at Cypress Square before flowing to DAAS Co-op, Alliance for the Arts, and downtown.If you’ve wondered how local arts strengthen a town, this conversation shows the blueprint: clear invitations, consistent events, shared walls, and open hearts. Whether you’re an artist returning to the easel after years away or a neighbor looking for a meaningful night out, there’s a place for you—paint in hand or simply curious. Come see the rotating exhibitions every four to six weeks, bring a friend to First Friday, or jump into a workshop and meet the good neighbors behind the canvases.Explore events, join a show, or plan your visit at FortMyersBeachArt.com, and stop by 13451 McGregor Blvd Unit 1 in Cypress Square. If this conversation inspired you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more neighbors can find their creative community.Fort Myers Beach Art Association Sylvia Montgomery & Suzan Lanz3451 McGregor Blvd. Unit 1, Fort Myers, FL 33919(239) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sun on the water, coffee on a balcony, and a quiet stretch of sand just steps away—this conversation with Tim Malbon of the Best Western Plus Beach Resort reveals what it really takes to protect a slice of paradise. We talk candidly about the day Hurricane Ian put feet of water on the second floor, the months of hard choices that followed, and the culture that kept longtime staff and loyal guests coming back when the doors reopened.Tim shares the resort’s DNA: every room faces the Gulf, each one with a full kitchen, and the mood stays peaceful by design. You can stroll to shops and restaurants, book a day with Holiday Water Sports, and still feel removed from the noise. He also opens up about building resilience into operations—navigating a new property management system, retraining the team, and turning a Facebook community into a lifeline of early bookings. The result is a hospitality comeback powered by trust, clarity, and the simple promise of an effortless beach day.We also highlight the property’s local roots and community giving, including years hosting Surfers for Autism and a guest-made tagline that says it all: close enough to everything, far away from the crowds. You’ll meet Coco, the 30-plus-year Yellownape Amazon parrot who greets early risers from his tiki hut, and you’ll get practical tips for first-time visitors who want to slow down, find their pace, and let the Gulf reset their mood.Ready to plan your calm escape? Book through Best Western Plus Beach Resort online or call the property directly, then share this episode with a friend who needs a quiet beach day. If the story resonated, tap follow, leave a review, and tell us your favorite Fort Myers Beach memory.Best Western Plus Beach ResortTim Malbon684 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Ever wondered why your premium climbs while your claim stalls? We talk with public adjuster and attorney John Jacobsen, a former insurance insider who now fights for homeowners across Southwest Florida, to reveal how property claims really get decided—and how you can tip the scales in your favor. John breaks down the insuring agreement at the core of every policy, the role of documentation and line‑item estimates, and why the appraisal process can transform lowball offers into realistic payouts that actually rebuild homes.John’s story starts in Minnesota and winds through years defending carriers in bodily injury, malpractice, and property claims. That vantage point—the carrier’s mindset, playbooks, and pressure points—now powers his advocacy for policyholders. He shares a striking case where an initial $13,000 offer rose to $186,000 after a thorough assessment and persistent negotiation. We dig into how recent Florida reforms changed attorney fee recovery, why that matters for families with limited resources, and where public adjusters fit as a cost‑effective alternative to litigation when coverage and scope are in dispute.Beyond the paperwork, we zoom out to the reality of living on the Gulf Coast: hurricanes, soaring premiums, and the haunting phrase “insurance poor.” John speaks candidly about the trend of owners who self‑insure, the scrutiny on carrier estimating practices, and the importance of asking hard questions before and after a loss. You’ll leave with practical steps: read your policy’s insuring agreement, request full estimate details, understand depreciation and code upgrades, and know your rights to bring your own adjuster to the table. If you’re navigating a claim or preparing for storm season, this conversation will help you secure fair value for your coverage and your home. Subscribe, share this episode with a neighbor who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest insurance question—we’ll tackle it on a future show.Final AnalysisJohn [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

If you’ve ever wondered how to find a builder who actually shows up, stands by their work, and treats you like family, you’ll want to meet Jadyn Henderson. We welcome the COO and cofounder of Lifestyle Design Homes to share how a family-run company delivers affordable luxury, keeps timelines tight, and stays anchored in the communities they serve.Jadyn walks us through the full scope of their work: custom residential builds from Fort Myers Beach to Naples, spec homes tailored to neighborhood demand, and development projects guided by data and design. We talk candidly about what happens when markets shift—like the construction surge in Lehigh Acres—and how smart builders adapt without cutting corners. You’ll hear how they balance price and quality, why local presence matters more than ever, and what sets a trustworthy contractor apart from out-of-town storm chasers.What really shines is the culture behind the brand. Jadyn’s father leads construction quality with two decades of experience, her stepmom guides design and selections, and Jaden orchestrates operations and sales so clients get clear communication and accountable timelines. The result is a builder who’s present from blueprint to handover—and still there when it’s time to host a backyard cookout. We also dive into community givebacks, from holiday photo days to upcoming backpack drives, plus first-time homebuyer seminars that help renters unlock grants and down payment assistance.If you’re planning a custom home, curious about affordable luxury in SW Florida, or exploring a move to Naples, this conversation packs practical takeaways: how to vet a builder, read the market, and design for outdoor living. Subscribe for more neighbor-first stories, share this with a friend who’s house hunting, and leave a review to help others find the show.Lifestyle Design HomesJadyn Henderson10800 Corkscrew Rd., Suite 214 Estero, FL 33928239-372-5855lifestyledesignhomes.comFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Storms don’t schedule appointments, but smart preparation does. We sit down with Kim Crispino of Titan Residential and Commercial to unpack a practical roadmap for Florida homeowners and business owners: document what you have, fortify what matters, and only hire people who will still be here when the warranty needs them. Kim explains how her team serves the entire state with verified crews, clear scopes, and a culture that puts customer service first—from free inspections and post-storm assessments to window, door, roofing, siding, and generator upgrades that stand up to Florida weather.We get into the details that save money later: why a window that “looks fine” after a hurricane may have a compromised seal, how moisture creeps in slowly and turns into bigger bills, and which upgrades deliver the best resilience per dollar. Kim breaks down financing options that make high-impact work feasible without overwhelming budgets, and she shares the red flags that signal storm chasers—vanishing contractors, flimsy paperwork, and warranties no one can honor. For mobile homes and flood-prone areas, we explore elevation strategies that prevent repeat losses and reduce stress when the next storm approaches.Beyond the tool belt, this conversation is about trust and community. Kim highlights TRC’s partnerships with general contractors, public adjusters, and attorneys who rely on accurate punch lists and reliable execution. She also shares her personal commitment to showing up, calling back, and referring clients to the right pros even when it’s outside TRC’s scope. If you want a playbook for resilience—documentation, durable materials, and people who stand by their work—you’ll find it here.If this conversation helped you plan your next upgrade, subscribe, share with a neighbor, and leave a quick review so more Florida homeowners can storm-proof with confidence.Titan Residential and Commercial Kim Crispino 5619 8th St W Lehigh Acres, FL 33971(401) [email protected] Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunshine isn’t just a forecast—it’s a way of building a life. We sit down with Valerie Carouthers to unpack her full-circle journey: growing up on Fort Myers Beach, swearing she’d never return, then finding her way back after gray winters and closed doors taught her what really matters. The thread running through her story is simple and powerful: community happens when people meet often, move together, and make room for newcomers.Valerie maps a beach-town playbook that’s equal parts joy and practicality. She spotlights monthly anchors like Naples Motorsports Cars and Coffee, shares the friends-and-family EDM gathering on San Carlos Bay Beach that runs noon to midnight with hourly DJs and flow artists, and explains how to catch pop-up sets near the pier by following Stage Two Society. She also opens the door to alcohol-light connection at Kava Culture—hammocks, fire pits, a CBD lounge, trivia, karaoke, and open mics—where you can sip a mango juice and still feel fully part of the scene. These third spaces are the heartbeat of a new social era and a perfect fit for a beach town that thrives on warm nights and easy conversation.Service is another pillar. From her role at ERA Lahaina Realty, Valerie coordinates monthly United Way volunteer events across Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, and Naples. That steady rhythm turns goodwill into real outcomes, exactly what a community needs as it continues to rebuild. She shares a thrifty local tip—enjoying Pink Shell’s energy and sunsets by posting up at Bongos Beach Bar—and lays out a clear case for investing in Fort Myers Beach real estate now, while the slate is still open and the vision is forward-facing. The goal isn’t to freeze time; it’s to carry the island’s soul into its next chapter with intention.If you’ve been craving a guide to plug into authentic Fort Myers Beach culture—events, third places, volunteer paths, and smart investment timing—this conversation delivers warmth and a plan. Subscribe, share with a friend who misses the sun, and leave a review telling us your favorite local third space or beach ritual.Valerie Carouthershttps://www.facebook.com/valerie.carouthersFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/

Sunrise on Fort Myers Beach tastes like warm tortillas and bright mango. We head to La Ola Surfside in Times Square for a quick, flavorful morning session where breakfast tacos meet a mango margarita and local stories meet the sea breeze. This stop brings together the comfort of eggs and sausage, the pop of cheddar jack, and the spark of fresh salsa with a tropical pour that balances sweetness, citrus, and tequila’s clean bite.We share why breakfast tacos deserve more love, how to dial heat without overpowering the eggs, and the simple tricks that keep tortillas soft and stackable. Along the way, we take a moment to look up at Legacy Tower, a remaining marker from the old Coast Surf Shop and a symbol of resilience for a community that keeps showing up. La Ola’s patio puts you right at the heart of it—bartenders who remember your order, locals dropping in, and that soft thrum of Times Square waking up. It’s a short visit with a big mood: start early, sip something bright, and let the beach set your pace.If you’re scouting the best tacos in Fort Myers Beach or hunting for a memorable margarita, this guide gives you the essentials. Order the breakfast tacos, ask for salsa on the side, add heat to the eggs not the tortilla, and finish with a squeeze of lime over the mango marg for balance. We also shout out great service behind the bar, because a good pour and a quick smile can turn a Tuesday tradition into a ritual. Hungry yet? Hit play, save La Ola Surfside to your list, and join us for a taste of local flavor and community pride.Enjoyed the ride? Follow the show, share it with a taco-loving friend, and leave a quick review to help more beach good neighbors find us.La Ola Surfside1035 Estero Blvd , Ft Myers Beach, FL 33931(239) 765-2222laolasurfside.comFt Myers Beach-Good NeighborTo Nominate Someone to be FeaturedOrTo Subscribe to the NewsletterCLICK HEREhttps://cabowabojim.com/listen-to-podcasts/