
Chambers, Changes & Conversations - the official podcast of Manatee County Government
by Manatee County Government
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From 10 epsHost
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Recent episodes
Ep. 40: Decoding the Manatee County Budget w/ Claudia Campos, Interim CFO and Robyn Faucy of Results First
Jun 22, 2026
39m 45s
Episode 39: Oyster Restoration Project
Jun 8, 2026
42m 49s
Ep. 38: CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams) & Com. Mike Rahn & Jodie Fiske
Jun 2, 2026
34m 21s
Ep. 37: Christine Olson, T.I.F.F.- To Inform Families First, & Matt Myers
May 27, 2026
39m 15s
Ep. 36: CDBG-DR Grant Applications with Odugo Ohizu
May 20, 2026
34m 08s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/22/26 | ![]() Ep. 40: Decoding the Manatee County Budget w/ Claudia Campos, Interim CFO and Robyn Faucy of Results First | Manatee County's budget can feel like a black box: millage rates, fund balances, required versus discretionary spending. On this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, we open it up with Interim CFO Claudia Campos and Robyn Faucy, President and CEO of Results 1st.This spring, the County ran a series of Budget 101 workshops to help residents understand how their tax dollars are spent. We break down how the budget actually works: what's required by law versus what's discretionary, how the millage rate gets set, and where your property tax dollar really goes.We also walk through what's happening at the state level with the property tax measure headed to November's ballot - purely informational,, just what's in it and what to watch for. Whether you've never been to a public budget session or just want to understand a bit more about the county budget: this conversation is built to help you follow along.Resources mentioned in this episode:Manatee County Property Tax 101 hub (explainer videos, tax bill breakdown, TRIM notice guide): Manatee County Budget Workshop Final Report Results 1st: https://results1st.org | 39m 45s | ||||||
| 6/8/26 | ![]() Episode 39: Oyster Restoration Project✨ | oyster restorationecosystem+3 | — | Manatee County | Manatee County | oystersrestoration+5 | — | 42m 49s | |
| 6/2/26 | ![]() Ep. 38: CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams) & Com. Mike Rahn & Jodie Fiske✨ | Community Emergency Response Teamdisaster preparedness+3 | Mike RahnJodie Fiske | FEMAManatee County Government | — | CERTemergency response+3 | — | 34m 21s | |
| 5/27/26 | ![]() Ep. 37: Christine Olson, T.I.F.F.- To Inform Families First, & Matt Myers✨ | public safetyemergency response+3 | Christine OlsonMatt Myers | T.I.F.F.FLHSMV+2 | Florida | T.I.F.F.emergency responders+3 | — | 39m 15s | |
| 5/20/26 | ![]() Ep. 36: CDBG-DR Grant Applications with Odugo Ohizu✨ | hurricane recoverydisaster assistance+4 | Odugo Ohizu | Manatee CountyCommunity Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery | Manatee County | CDBG-DRdisaster recovery+6 | — | 34m 08s | |
| 5/1/26 | ![]() Ep. 35: Economic Development with Aimee Johnson & Amanda Parrish✨ | economic developmentcommunity growth+3 | Aimee JohnsonAmanda Parrish | Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation | Manatee County | economic developmentManatee County+3 | — | 42m 18s | |
| 4/23/26 | ![]() Ep. 34: Jodie Fiske & Kevin Guthrie, FDEM Director✨ | emergency managementhurricane preparedness+3 | Kevin Guthrie | Florida Division of Emergency Management | Manatee County | emergency managementhurricanes+5 | — | 1h 02m 32s | |
| 3/23/26 | ![]() Ep 33: Deputy County Administrator Courtney De Pol✨ | local governmentleadership+4 | Courtney De Pol | Manatee CountyManatee County Government | Manatee County | local governmentleadership lessons+4 | — | 52m 33s | |
| 3/18/26 | ![]() Ep. 32 Board Chair Tal Siddique✨ | leadershiplocal government+5 | Tal Siddique | Manatee County Government | Manatee CountyFlorida+3 | Manatee CountyTal Siddique+6 | — | 43m 02s | |
| 3/11/26 | ![]() Ep 31: Sarah Brown, Director of Community and Veterans Service✨ | Community ServicesVeterans Support+3 | Sarah Brown | Manatee County GovernmentCommunity & Veterans Services Department+3 | — | veterans benefitscommunity services+3 | — | 43m 34s | |
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| 2/27/26 | ![]() Ep 30: Molly White, Director of Sports & Leisure✨ | sportsleisure+4 | Molly White | Manatee County Government | Manatee CountyG.T. Bray Park+4 | sportsleisure+7 | — | 37m 21s | |
| 2/13/26 | ![]() Ep 29: Charlie Hunsicker, Director of Natural Resources | Meet Charlie Hunsicker, the longest-serving employee at Manatee County, to discuss his impactful role as Director of the Natural Resources Department. For decades, Charlie has been at the forefront of efforts to protect wildlife, beaches, and natural preserves, all while ensuring the sustainable management of the county's precious resources.In part one of our conversation, Charlie takes us behind the scenes of the Natural Resources Department, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving the region’s diverse ecosystems through programs focused on water quality, wildlife conservation, and the restoration of natural habitats. We dive into how Charlie’s leadership has shaped key initiatives, including advocacy, the management of over 1,500 acres of public preserves, the restoration of vital wetlands and coastal habitats, and the ongoing efforts to ensure clean water for future generations.Charlie also sheds light on the department’s work to support educational outreach programs that engage the community in protecting local wildlife and natural spaces. Whether it’s maintaining the health of the county’s iconic beaches or advocating for responsible land use policies, Charlie’s influence continues to ensure a sustainable and vibrant future for the residents and wildlife of Manatee County.Stay tuned for part two, coming soon! For more on the incredible work being done by the Natural Resources Department, check out our website.Other helpful links:Mixon FarmNatural Resources Education Opportunities CalendarSign up for the EcoEvents Newsletter | 46m 43s | ||||||
| 2/6/26 | ![]() Ep 28: Manatee County Day | We took Chambers, Changes & Conversations on the road for the very first Manatee County Day in Tallahassee!We had great conversations with Operation Warrior Resolution, SeaPort Manatee, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), Forristall Enterprises, Inc., The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, The Manatee County Government Relations Department, The School District of Manatee County, Jacki Dezelski from The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, and District 4 Commissioner Mike Rahn.Together, we discussed the challenges facing our local businesses and the real solutions that can come from working side-by-side with our state legislators. | 32m 15s | ||||||
| 1/27/26 | ![]() Ep 27: Drew Richardson, Director of Information Technology Services | What does forward-thinking local government technology really look like in 2026? In this episode we talk with Drew Richardson, Director of Information Technology Services for Manatee County, about how his department is redefining public sector IT with cybersecurity strategy, artificial intelligence, data management, digital infrastructure, and real-world tools residents and professionals can use.Drew shares how his team obsesses over securing and modernizing the county’s IT infrastructure to protect data and deliver reliable services, while keeping systems agile and future-ready. We look at how they are leading with advanced data integration through Peregrine technology to unify information and empower faster, smarter decision making in emergency management and daily operations.We also explore how Manatee County’s Geographic Information System (GIS) delivers powerful spatial data and interactive maps that help people understand trends, property data, utility infrastructure, zoning, evacuation zones, and more through online tools like the Property Locator map, utility infrastructure map, and story map gallery.This conversation goes beyond tech jargon. It highlights a customer-focused, solution-oriented IT team that finds ways to get to yes, collaborates with departments across the county, and builds systems that work for people. If you want an inside look at cybersecurity in government, AI strategy in the public sector, GIS mapping and data tools, and how local IT is making life better for residents and staff, this episode is for you.Learn more:Manatee County ITSEmail DrewGeographic Information Services (GIS) | 43m 04s | ||||||
| 1/20/26 | ![]() Ep 26: Nicole Knapp, Director of Development Services | What actually happens after someone says, “I want to build something”?We talk with Nicole Knapp, Director of Development Services, for a candid and surprisingly fun conversation about how development really works in Manatee County.Nicole shares her path into this industry and pulls back the curtain on the divisions she oversees: building, planning, zoning, permitting, and impact fees to name a few. If you have ever been confused, frustrated, or curious about the development process, this episode is for you.We talk about her team and the reality of their workload, including a nearly 10x increase in cases following three hurricanes in late 2024. It is a behind-the-scenes look at public servants navigating growth, recovery, and complexity at the same time.Nicole walks us through the full development journey, from pre-application to application, to planning commission, and explains why only about 4 percent of cases ever make it to the Board of County Commissioners. Along the way, she explains common misconceptions, why the process exists, and what factors are key to consider before a public hearing.We also dig into bigger ideas: why “smart growth” is an overused phrase, why an updated Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code matter, and what her staff is doing to support this top priority of the Board's in 2026.Clear, honest, and full of insight, this is a must-listen episode for anyone who wants to better understand how development decisions are made and why the process looks the way it does. | 42m 37s | ||||||
| 1/5/26 | ![]() Ep 25: Elliot Falcione, Director for Tourism and the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) | Tourism touches more than vacations — it shapes our economy, our infrastructure, and our quality of life. In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, we talk with Elliot Falcione, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, about what tourism really means for Manatee County residents.We break down the day-to-day role of the CVB, how tourism marketing is funded, and why that funding model matters to locals, not just visitors. Elliot explains how tourism dollars support community assets, local businesses, and long-term economic stability, and why understanding that connection is key to quality of life in Manatee County.We also dive into some of the region’s most talked-about projects, including the Gulf Islands Ferry, and how initiatives like this are transforming Bradenton from a place you visit into a place you truly experience. From regional connectivity to reimagining how residents and visitors explore the area, these projects are reshaping our destination story.Tourism goes beyond beaches, too. Elliot shares why the Bradenton Area Convention Center expansion is such a critical investment right now, how it helps diversify our tourism economy, and the ripple effect it creates for local businesses year-round.With more than 30 years at the CVB, Elliot offers a unique perspective on how visitation has evolved, what trends are shaping traveler expectations, and why international travel — supported by strong partnerships with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport — is a growing part of Bradenton’s future. We also explore Bradenton’s long-standing sister city relationship with Pittsburgh and how it helped shape the area’s identity as a destination.It’s an insightful conversation about tourism’s past, present, and future — and why it matters to everyone who calls Manatee County home.🎧 Listen now and discover how tourism works for you. | 54m 17s | ||||||
| 12/15/25 | ![]() Ep 24: Commissioner Mike Rahn & Carlos Burqueras, Seaport Manatee Executive Director | In this episode of Chambers, Changes, and Conversations, Commissioner Mike Rahn and Port Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras join the conversation to unpack one of Manatee County’s most powerful economic drivers - and reminds us it does so without any tax payer dollars.We explore the port’s enormous economic impact, why its location matters as the closest deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal and to Cuba (Havana, anyone?), and how global trade directly shapes our local economy. From one billion in bananas moving through the port each year to the international relationships Carlos Buqueras navigates daily, this episode brings the global supply chain close to home.Commissioner Mike Rahn also explains the proposed 2026 legislation to create a special district for Port Manatee, why he believes it’s the right step forward, and what it could mean for long-term growth, competitiveness, and local governance.If you’re curious how Manatee County connects to the world and why Port Manatee plays such a critical role in our future, this episode delivers insight, perspective, and a few surprises along the way.Learn more:Seaport Manatee WebsiteWhy Southwest FloridaPort Statistics | 49m 01s | ||||||
| 12/8/25 | ![]() Ep. 23, Palmetto Mayor Dan West | We sit down with Palmetto Mayor Dan West for a deep dive into the history, heritage, and heart of Manatee County. Before he ever served on the Palmetto City Commission or stepped into the Mayor’s office, Dan built a career as an agriculture teacher and spent 20 years working and eventually leading the Manatee County Fair. That background shapes how he leads, how he sees community, and how he thinks about the future of a growing agricultural county.We trace the roots of Florida’s agricultural identity, including Dan’s passion for elevating and preserving agriculture in Manatee County. Be prepared to learn something new; this conversation is full of stories you didn’t know you needed, from the origins of Palmetto's ag traditions and the local decisions that keep them alive.If you want to understand Palmetto’s past, its growth, and why agriculture remains the backbone of Florida’s future, this episode is a must-listen.Keywords: Palmetto Mayor Dan West, Manatee County history, Florida agriculture, Florida Agricultural Flag, Manatee County Fair, agriculture education, local government leadership, Chambers Changes and Conversations podcast. | 40m 16s | ||||||
| 11/24/25 | ![]() Ep. 22: Chad Butzow, Director of Public Works | If you’ve ever sat in traffic on your morning commute, wondered why a road project takes so long, questioned how repaving decisions get made, or felt frustrated trying to understand how growth is outpacing infrastructure, this is the episode you need to hear.It is an engaging conversation with Public Works Director Chad Butzow; a refreshingly direct breakdown of the issues residents care about most. This is not a scripted, polished county update. Chad talks like a real human who knows exactly what people are feeling, and he doesn’t hold back.We get into: • all things traffic • roundabouts • buses, repaving, new signals • street sweeping, and maintenance tie directly to flooding and safety • and the recent expansion of 44th Ave.Chad also gives a rare inside look at how public works decisions are made, what slows things down, what speeds things up, and what residents should expect as Manatee County continues to grow.If you care about roads, traffic, growth, or infrastructure in Manatee County, this episode is a must listen. It’s honest. It’s clear. And it answers many of the common questions so many people ask every day.Contact the public works team: publicworks.maintenance@mymanatee.orgPublic Works Website (you can even follow specific projects!)Public Works Strategic PlanPublic Works Standards | 43m 14s | ||||||
| 11/10/25 | ![]() Ep. 21: Chairman George Kruse and 2026 State Legislative Priorities | Ever wonder how Manatee County’s biggest projects and policy goals make it to Tallahassee? In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, speak with Chairman George Kruse to unpack the 2026 Manatee County Legislative Priorities - the projects, policies, and partnerships shaping our county’s future.We talk about property taxes and SB 180 and a local bill for Manatee County to give back home rule related to our Library Advisory board. We walk through the major projects we're requesting funding for, like the Veterans Hub and the City of Anna Maria Pier, as well as key transportation and infrastructure requests. You’ll get the story behind why Chairman Kruse thinks why these matter to residents. We also walk through how the legislative process works, how residents can follow the progress, and simple ways to get involved in shaping Manatee County’s future - like the upcoming Manatee Day February 4 & 5, 2026.It’s a transparent, easy-to-follow look at how local government works for you, featuring the chairman of the board himself.Related links:2026 Legislative Priorities - Manatee County GovernmentManatee County Day - Feb 4-5, 2026BoCC AgendaBoCC Meeting CalendarSign up to speak at a Commissioner's Meeting | 46m 31s | ||||||
| 11/3/25 | ![]() Ep.20: Supervisor of Elections, Scott Farrington | 🎙️ Trust, Technology, and Transparency: Inside Manatee County ElectionsWe’re back with Scott Farrington, Supervisor of Elections in Manatee County, elected in 2024.This time, we’re talking about one of the most essential parts of public service: trust. Trust that your vote counts, your ballot is secure, and democracy is in good hands. And the person making sure of that in Manatee County is Supervisor of Elections Scott Farrington.With more than 75 elections under his belt and a background in information systems, Scott has spent over two decades ensuring our elections are secure, transparent, and trusted. In this episode, we dig into what election security really looks like, how his office operates between election cycles, and why our local elections office is one of the most tech-savvy in government.We also talk about how voters can stay informed, what goes on behind the scenes before and after Election Day, and how his team is inspiring a new generation of voters right here in Manatee County.It’s informative, timely, and a great reminder that confidence in our democracy starts at the local level.Related Links:Manatee County Supervisor of Elections: www.votemanatee.govRegister to Vote or Update Info: RegisterToVoteFlorida.govElection Security & Audit Process: votemanatee.gov/securityFollow @VoteManatee on social media for updates and resources | 46m 42s | ||||||
| 10/27/25 | ![]() Ep. 19: Utilities Director, Pat Shea, and Deputy Director, Chris Collins | We’re diving into one of the most essential — and often overlooked — parts of daily life in Manatee County: Utilities. From the brand-new 96-gallon Big Bins rolling out across neighborhoods to cutting-edge renewable energy and smart water technology, this episode is packed with innovation, sustainability, and a behind-the-scenes look at the people making it all happen.Joining us are Patrick Shea, Director of Utilities, and Chris Collins, Deputy Director, two leaders guiding the County through a major modernization effort that’s reshaping how we handle waste, water, and infrastructure for a growing community.We cover everything from how the Big Bin rollout is going and what residents can expect next, to the Waste to Worth project — a groundbreaking system turning landfill methane into clean, renewable energy. You’ll also hear how Water Wise Manatee is helping customers track their water use in real time, spot leaks early, and save money while supporting long-term conservation.Beyond the technology, Chris and Pat share what it’s like leading a department that touches every home, every day — from the satisfaction of extending the life of the County landfill by 21 years, to the excitement of building the next generation of water treatment and reclamation facilities.It’s practical, forward-thinking, and full of local pride — proof that even the stuff we throw away (and flush away) can be part of a smarter, more sustainable future for Manatee County.Related links:Big Bin Advantage & Resident Information Tool: mymanatee.org/bigbin Waste to Worth Renewable Energy Project: mymanatee.org/wastetoworth Water Wise Manatee Smart Meter Program: mymanatee.org/waterwise Manatee County Utilities Department: mymanatee.org/utilitiesCommunity Cleanup Event Info: mymanatee.org/cleanup | 38m 07s | ||||||
| 10/20/25 | ![]() Ep. 18: Dr. Laurie Breslin, School District Superintendent of Schools | We’re going back to school with Dr. Laurie Breslin, the new Superintendent of the School District of Manatee County and one of the most full-circle stories in local leadership. A Manatee County native, Dr. Breslin has experienced our schools from every angle: student, teacher, parent, and now superintendent.In this episode, we talk about how her personal journey informs her leadership, and how the district is helping every student succeed through programs like SOAR, a new initiative designed to support academic recovery and engagement. We cover the district’s focus on early learning and VPK, efforts to improve graduation rates, what’s being done to tackle chronic absenteeism, and the incredible opportunities available locally at Manatee Technical College.You’ll also get to know the person behind the title - her favorite field trip food, her leadership influences, and how she stays grounded while leading a district of more than 50,000 students.It’s thoughtful, inspiring, and she is absolutely delightful. Manatee County Teachers and Students are in good hands.Related linksSchool District of Manatee County Homepage: https://www.manateeschools.netSOAR Program Overview: https://www.manateeschools.net/page/soar-in-4VPK & Early Learning Programs: https://www.manateeschools.net/prekAttendance & Absenteeism Resources: https://www.manateeschools.net/attendanceGraduation Rate Reports & Student Success Data: https://www.manateeschools.net/accountabilityFlorida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program: https://www.vpkflorida.orgAttendance Works – National Campaign to End Chronic Absence: https://www.attendanceworks.orgManatee Technical College: https://www.manateetech.edu | 40m 52s | ||||||
| 10/13/25 | ![]() Ep. 17: Public Safety Deputy Director, James Crutchfield | Episode 17: From Emergencies to Innovation — A Conversation with James Crutchfield!He’s led from the front lines of emergency medical services for over 17 years, transforming how Manatee County responds to crisis and cares for its community. As Deputy Director of Public Safety, James Crutchfield oversees six divisions, from EMS and Emergency Management to Beach and Pool Safety, ensuring that when the call comes in, help is already on the way.In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, hosts Stephanie Garrison and Casey Zempel sit down with the man redefining what “Public Safety” means in the modern era. The conversation explores how Manatee County became a state and national leader in innovation, from 911-integrated drone delivery and telehealth through MD Ally to the award-winning Mobile Integrated Health Program that’s reshaping community care.You’ll hear:How Manatee County became the first in the nation to integrate drones into 911 responseWhy “right care, right time, right place” isn’t just a motto — it’s a missionHow a small EMS department from the 1970s grew into a nationally recognized model of excellenceAnd a lightning round that proves even Public Safety pros can have a little fun under pressureInsightful, forward-thinking, and full of heart — this is James Crutchfield in his own words.Listen to the official podcast of Manatee County Government: Chambers, Changes & Conversations — your inside look at the people, policies, and partnerships shaping our region. | 39m 39s | ||||||
| 10/10/25 | ![]() Ep. 16: Senator & RNC Chairman Joe Gruters | 🎙️ Episode 16: A Conversation with Senator and RNC Chairman Joe Gruters!He’s represented our region in Tallahassee since 2016 as first a State Representative and now State Senator, chaired the Republican Party of Florida, and now serves as the newly elected Chairman of the Republican National Committee. But long before the national spotlight, Senator Joe Gruters was helping shape the future of Sarasota and Manatee County; bringing common sense, building bridges, and believing in people.In this episode of Chambers, Changes & Conversations, hosts Stephanie Garrison and Casey Zempel catch up with the man who helped launch Stephanie’s own career in public service. The conversation blends humor, heart, and insight from behind-the-scenes stories about a meal shared with President Donald Trump to the lessons learned balancing local roots with national leadership.You’ll hear:How Joe’s Sarasota upbringing shaped his political styleHis thoughts on this special moment for FloridaWhat it’s like to lead at the National levelAnd a lightning round that proves politics can still be funCandid, thoughtful, and refreshingly real: this is Joe Gruters in his own words.🎧 Listen to the official podcast of Manatee County Government: Chambers, Changes & Conversations — your inside look at the people, policies, and partnerships shaping our region. | 20m 00s | ||||||
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