About this podcast
Our Florida Podcast is a deep dive into the Sunshine State’s rich history and fascinating ecology. Join 6th-generation Floridian sisters Kaylee Betts Johnson and Maegan Betts as they uncover the stories and natural wonders that make Florida unique.
Florida is one of the most popular states for a reason. Whether you're a longtime local, a snowbird, or a new resident, we hope you'll discover something new that deepens your appreciation for this beautiful and diverse place.
🎙️ Mondays – Kaylee explores Florida’s history, from conquistadors to conservationists, sharing the stories of those who shaped the state.
🌿 Fridays – Maegan dives into Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems, revealing the incredible biodiversity that makes it so special.
Episodes
The newest 20 of 24 episodes
- EP#24 The History of Invasive Species in Florida · 35 min · Season 1 Episode 24This episode explores the issue of invasive species in Florida, discussing their historical context, impact on native wildlife, and the importance of public awareness and…
- EP#23 Mermaids in the Springs: Weeki Wachee · 31 min · Season 1 Episode 23In this episode of Our Florida Podcast, hosts Kaylee and Mae Betts celebrate Kaylee's birthday while exploring the fascinating history and attractions of Wikiuachi Springs State…
- EP#22 The Mysterious Skunk Ape of Florida · 24 min · Season 1 Episode 22In this episode, Mae and Kaylee explore the folklore surrounding Florida's Skunk Ape, a creature often compared to Bigfoot. They discuss its origins, sightings, and the various…
- EP#21A Look at Florida's LGBTQ History · 1 h 2 min · Season 1 Episode 21In this episode, we explore the complex and often turbulent history of LGBTQ rights in Florida, from Drag queens in the 1930s to the fight for recognition in the wake of the AIDS…
- EP#20 How to get away with grave robbery? · 29 min · Season 1 Episode 20In this episode, Kaylee and Mae delve into the bizarre and often disturbing stories that have come to define Florida's reputation, with a particular focus on the infamous case of…
- EP# 19 FWC Commissioners Development or Conservation? · 38 min · Season 1 Episode 19In this episode, hosts Mae and Kaylee discuss the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), its mission, and the potential conflicts of interest among its…
- Ep#19 FWC Commissioner Rodney Barreto · 35 min · Season 1 Episode 18In this episode, Mae and Kaylee delve into the complexities of Florida's wildlife management, focusing on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). They…
- EP#17 The Deadliest Hurricane in Florida History · 1 h 7 min · Season 1 Episode 17In this episode, hosts Kaylee and Mae explore Florida's rich history of hurricanes, wildlife, and community involvement. They discuss the importance of understanding hurricane…
- EP# 16 Should We Hunt Florida’s Black Bears? What You Need to Know Before the FWC Meeting · 38 min · Season 1 Episode 16In this episode, Mae and Kaylee dive into the upcoming Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting and what it means for the future of Florida’s black bear…
- EP#15 2015 48 Hour Black Bear Hunt · 35 min · Season 1 Episode 15In this episode of the Florida Wildlife Podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of the Florida Black Bear, discussing its unique characteristics, breeding…
- EP# 14 The Alarming Truth About Red Tide · 32 min · Season 1 Episode 14This episode explores the phenomenon of red tide in Florida, discussing its causes, effects on marine life, historical context, and the ongoing scientific research aimed at…
- Ep #13 Bridge to Nowhere: The 1980 Sunshine Skyway Collapse · 52 minIn this episode, Kaylee & Mae explore a Florida tragedy—the collapse of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge on May 9, 1980. What started as a routine day turned into a nightmare…
- EP #12 Our State Animal: Florida Panther · 38 min · Season 1 Episode 12This episode explores the Florida Panther, the state animal of Florida, discussing its selection, habitat, physical characteristics, diet, threats to its survival, and ongoing…
- Ep #11 The Grandma of the Glades: Marjory Stoneman Douglas · 42 min · Season 1 Episode 11In this episode, Kaylee & Mae dive into the extraordinary life of Marjorie Stoneman Douglas—writer, activist, and the fierce protector of the Everglades. She wasn’t just an…
- EP #10 Are Manatees Mermaids? · 43 min · Season 1 Episode 10In this episode of the Florida wildlife podcast, hosts Mae and Kaylee delve into the fascinating world of manatees, exploring their habitats, diet, physical characteristics, and…
- EP #9 Mastodons in Florida. The History of Wakulla Springs. · 42 min · Season 1 Episode 9In this episode, Kaylee and Mae dive into the fascinating world of Florida Springs, exploring their geological formation, the role of the Floridan aquifer, and the rich history…
- EP #8 Purple Gallinule VS. Purple Swamphen · 27 min · Season 1 Episode 8In this episode, Mae and Kaylee explore Florida's diverse wildlife, focusing on the Purple Gallinule, a vibrant bird native to South Florida. They discuss its physical…
- EP #7 We Almost Divided Florida. The Story of the Cross Florida Barge Canal · 45 min · Season 1 Episode 7In today’s episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the life and legacy of Marjorie Harris Carr, a trailblazing conservationist who fought to protect Florida’s natural spaces. They…
- EP #6 Anastasia Island Beach Mouse · 30 min · Season 1 Episode 6This episode explores the Anastasia Island Beach Mouse, a unique and endangered species native to Florida. The hosts discuss the mouse's habitat, diet, reproduction, and the…
- EP #5 Fort Mose – The First Free Black Settlement in America · 40 min · Season 1 Episode 5In this episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the remarkable history of Fort Mose, the first legally recognized free Black settlement in what would become the United States. Located…
