Explore every episode of the podcast Pine Island Experience

📚✨Award-Winning author and Pine Islander,  Robert N. Macomber joins us to share the heart behind his life as a maritime historian, novelist, and lecturer. From the inspiration behind his 17-book Honor Series to the moments that light up his audiences, Robert brings history to life with passion and purpose. This conversation offers a glimpse into the storyteller who has captivated readers around the world — and built a dedicated community of “Wakians” who follow his adventures across seas, stages, and pages. 🌴🎨 Meet Robert at the Potters’ Guild Holiday Show and Sale on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 10:00am - 2:00pm at Koucky Studios, 5971 Bay Point Rd, Bokeelia on Pine Island.  Robert will have books for sale. Buy for yourself or give them as great gifts. ✨“Nobody ever covered the Civil War in Florida which bothered me because on this coast, we had lots of civil war action.” —Robert N. Macomber✨ 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 🌐 Learn more at robertmacomber.com 📅 See the Calendar of Events at robertmacomber.com/calendar.html 📧 We’d love to hear your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

🥬✨In this episode, we sit down with Bill and Benet Kazokas of Flor-Da-Lee Farm in Bokeelia.  In 2013, they stepped away from corporate life, purchased 2.5 acres of agricultural land, and began growing specialty artisan lettuce — now supplying hotels, country clubs, and restaurants across Naples and Fort Myers. Today, they nurture 60 varieties for seven months each year, while Benet has expanded the farm’s offerings with her growing passion for ornamentals, herbs and artistic planters.🌸🌿 🌱With agricultural experiences that span Mexico, Australia, Brazil, and Argentina, and a deep commitment to the Pine Island community through the Garden Gala, Island Market, Potters Guild and Friday Night Art Walk, their story blends global perspective with local purpose. Join us as they share the challenges, inspirations, and unexpected joys that shaped Flor-Da-Lee Farm — and the vision they carry into the island’s future.🌴 ✨“It spoils you.  Once you start to taste flavorful food, it’s hard to accept anything else.”   —Bill Kazokas✨ 💚”It’s nice to get feedback from other people and encouragement and to see that people really like what you’re doing.” —Benet Kazokas 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 🌐 Learn more at flordaleefarm.com 📧 We’d love to hear your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

⚓️📚This week, we dive into mystery, law, and life along Pine Island Sound with author and attorney John D. Mills. 🌅🐟 A fifth-generation Fort Myers native, John grew up fishing these waters — and today, he channels that deep local knowledge into his nine-book fictional mysteries set right here in our coastal backyard.  In his first three books, his main character is Detective Doug Shearer with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Detective Shearer solves murders set on islands in Pine Island Sound in these books: Reasonable and Necessary, The Manatee Murders, and The Objector. The fourth book, Sworn Jury, is a legal thriller about a murder at the Historic Edison Home in downtown Ft. Myers.  John’s characters in his recent five books: The Trophy Wife Divorce, The Hooker, the Dancer and the Nun, Pineland Gold, Cayo Costa Cross and Captiva Coven are divorce attorney, Beth Mancini and longtime boyfriend, Frank Powers, prosecuting attorney.  🏝️💛 John’s writing blend courtroom tension with the heritage and heart of the islands we love. From years in the legal field to a lifetime on the water, his stories carry the depth of real experience.  From his years as a prosecutor and defense attorney to his passion for preserving local stories, John gives us a rare glimpse into the real people and places that inspire his thrillers. ✨ On fishing Pine Island Sound, “Going out on the water, it reminds me of my younger days and it uses a different part of my brain.”  — John D. Mills✨ 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📚 Learn more at pineislandsoundmysteries.com 📧 We’d love to hear your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

🌴✨ From firefighter to Florida dreamer, Dan Boone’s journey is all heart. After years as a firefighter — eventually becoming a Lieutenant and joining Special Ops — Dan’s optimism and drive led him through every chapter with purpose and joy. Known as his department’s “Ambassador of Goodwill,” Dan brings that same energy to his company, CoastalFlo, creating performance apparel made for Florida’s sun, sea, and sand. Now calling Pine Island home, Dan has turned retirement into inspiration — building community, friendship, and a lifestyle brand that celebrates the Florida vibe. 💬 “Making new friends on the Gulf Coast — this never gets old!” — Dan Boone ✨ We love Florida! From beach, boat, to sandbar — CoastalFlo has you covered. ✨ 🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Dan’s story.  Listen on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 💡 Visit: coastalflo.com 📧 Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

🌴✨ Chef Anthony Pospiech opened The Island Girl Eats last spring within Pineland Marina in Bokeelia — a food truck and large tiki hut that’s quickly become a must-stop for locals and visitors alike. Open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, it’s where incredible food meets stunning waterfront views. You’ll hear his passion, his gratitude for his team, and his humble joy in creating something special for this island community.💛 🌅🍴“I’d rather sacrifice five minutes and give you a great meal than get it out quickly and you’re just unimpressed. The view’s great but I want the food to be great too.” — Chef Anthony 🎉 🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Chef Anthony🌴 ✨ Open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset ✨ 🎧 Listen to the podcast now → Use your favorite podcast app or pineislandexperience.com Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com 💡 Visit the website to see the menu and order food → https://order.toasttab.com/online/islandgirleats 🧍‍♂️Sit back and enjoy the sunsets

🌅🐟 In this episode, we sit down with Rob Wells, who grew up surrounded by the beauty of Pine Island Sound. His family’s story began in 1976 when his parents purchased Cabbage Key, creating a one-of-a-kind island retreat. In 1999, the Wells family expanded their legacy with The Tarpon Lodge in Bokeelia — blending history, hospitality, and heart. Today, Rob and his brother Ken continue to preserve that legacy, building unforgettable guest experiences, winning awards, and creating lasting connections for visitors and locals alike. 🌴 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app — and experience the magic of Pine Island Sound through Rob’s story. 📩 Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com View more on the websites: 👉 tarponlodge.com 👉 cabbagekey.com

🌴💛✨ Creativity isn’t just for artwork—it’s a powerful tool for business, too. 🌟 This week, we sit down with Nancy Koucky of NRK Designs, who shares how her artistic roots shape her graphic design work, from adult books and children’s books to branding for businesses. 🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Nancy’s journey🌴 “If you turn a painting upside down and it still works, that is a good painting. Because it’s not just about what you’re seeing, it’s how it’s laid out.” —Nancy Koucky ✨ Books, branding, and beyond! ✨ 🎧 Listen to the podcast now → Use your favorite podcast app or pineislandexperience.com Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com 💡 Visit the Koucky Studios website to see works by Nancy and Chuck including their latest collaborative pieces: kouckystudios.com 🧍‍♂️ Attend the Pine Island Potters Potters’ Guild Show and Sale … it’s not just pottery. The first show this season is Saturday, November 8, 2025.

🌴💛✨ Welcome to the Pine Island Experience Podcast, where we celebrate the people, places, and spirit that make our island community so special. Today, we’re shining a light on the Beacon of Hope. Since 2004, this organization has been a lifeline for Pine Islanders—offering meals, transportation, counseling, education, and so much more. Executive Director Nancy Cote joins us to share how the Beacon is not only meeting needs but also inspiring hope and connection every single day. 🌟You’re going to walk away from this episode feeling encouraged, uplifted, and proud of what’s happening right here on Pine Island. 🎧 Listen to the podcast now → Use your favorite podcast app or pineislandexperience.com Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com 🧍‍♂️To learn more abut the Beacon of Hope… Nancy says, “The best way to get to know us is to Volunteer.”  Stop in and see Nancy at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St James City, FL 33956. 🌐 Checkout the Attic Thrift Store and donate and/or purchase some lovely items. 💡 Visit the Beacon of Hope website: https://beaconofhopepineisland.com

Madison Morris is on fire — from being a two-time Grammy-submitted singer-songwriter to his currently nominated song Hard Rain, up for a Josie Award for Americana Song of the Year. 🏆 💛 On the latest episode of Pine Island Experience, hear the story behind Madison’s music and journey. These days, he calls himself “half Texan, half Floridian”—a mix that fuels his ability to blend country, electronic dance, R&B, and hip-hop with a style all his own. 🔥 Don’t miss his just-released single, Eve of Revolution, available on all streaming platforms or at madisonmorrismusic.com. 🎧 Listen to the podcast now → Use your favorite podcast app or pineislandexperience.com 📩 Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In just a short time, Tami Sager and Yovan Santiesteban have transformed The Eagle’s Nest into one of Pine Island’s most exciting destinations — serving up incredible food, refreshing drinks, live entertainment, and an atmosphere that feels like family. With multiple Best of Pine Island 2025 Awards under their belt, their success goes beyond the kitchen. Tami and Yovan are passionate about giving back, guided by faith and a deep love for the community they call home. From generous portions to heartfelt service, their mission is clear: 💛 “Our focus is on making Pine Island better. This is our home.” 🌟 This is an inspiring and unforgettable conversation about food, faith, and building community. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Share your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Paulette LeBlanc, Editor of the Pine Island Eagle and award-winning author, has spent her life writing—and her heart now belongs to Pine Island and its people. From children’s books to community stories, Paulette captures resilience, kindness, and hope with every word. 💛“The heart of what I do creatively will always be writing.” 🌟This a must listen unforgettable interview. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Have thoughts or questions? We’d love to hear from you: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

From her early days growing up in Ohio to her vibrant life on Pine Island, artist Juli Gilson has always been drawn to the coast. Her work beautifully reflects the natural gifts of the sea—seashells, sea glass, driftwood—and brings them to life in her paintings, driftwood sea creatures, birds, boats, and resin art.  She even uses historic Pine Island windows as frames for her coastal creations. In this episode, Juli shares how a life-changing accident and the challenges that followed led her back to her first love: art. With resilience and heart, she transformed adversity into inspiration—building a life filled with creativity, teaching, and community. Whether in her home studio or at local businesses, Juli now teaches art classes on Pine Island, spreading joy through every brushstroke. ☀️ Stop into @Island Flair in Matlacha to see her latest artwork in person, and follow @Juli Gilson and @Coastal Creations to explore more of her art and stay updated on upcoming events. ☀️ These are Pine Island businesses where Juli has taught art classes:  @Island Flair, @Kickstand’s Pub & Grub,  @Street Eatz & Ale, @Jug Creek Marina & Fish House,  and @The Island Girl Eats 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Have thoughts or questions? We’d love to hear from you: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

From casting lines to writing lyrics, Joe Harley’s journey is rooted in resilience and creativity. In this episode, we hear how Joe went from growing up on Pine Island to becoming a beloved fishing guide—until Hurricane Ian changed everything. Now, he's pouring his heart into music as a singer-songwriter with growing success. 🎶 His latest single, Pass the Time, is gaining traction on Spotify, and his music (under Hotel Life and The Tokes) is available on all major streaming platforms via SONY ORCHARD and 9LIVES RECORDS. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Have thoughts or questions? We’d love to hear from you: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this episode, we meet Leanne Luehrman, the creative force behind Sea Salt & Co.  Though she’s new to Pine Island, Leanne is no stranger to the art of bespoke embroidery and personalized gifting. A self-taught embroiderer with a love for the history of monograms, Leanne brings passion, precision, and personality to everything she creates. Leanne lights up when helping customers find just the right gift—often encouraging them to come back and share how much the recipient loved it. Her philosophy? “If it fits on the embroidery machine, I can do it!” Since arriving, Leanne has fallen in love with Pine Island and its people, calling the community unbelievably welcoming and supportive. Sea Salt & Co. is more than a store—it’s a space where creativity and connection come together. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Got questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you at pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this episode, we meet the delightful Darcy Conner—Travel Advisor, Small Business Owner, and passionate travel matchmaker. Helping people is what brings her joy, and that shines through in every trip she helps plan. Whether you're dreaming of ocean cruises, river adventures, resort getaways, or fully customized travel experiences, Darcy brings deep expertise, personal insight, and a whole lot of heart to every itinerary. Her mission? To take the stress out of planning and add in service, service, and more service—at no extra cost to you. ✨ Learn how Darcy's insider knowledge and preferred access to travel perks can turn your next vacation into something unforgettable. 📞 Ready to start planning? Reach out to Darcy at https://www.cruiselandandsea.com 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Got questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you at pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this episode, we sit down with Sheila Breech, of Kickstand’s Pub & Grub.  When Sheila and Dave Breech rolled into Pine Island, they brought more than restaurant know-how—they brought heart, grit, and a deep love for community and motorcycles. In this episode, Sheila shares how Kickstand’s Pub & Grub came to life, filling a big gap for a biker-friendly restaurant. Now a favorite hangout for locals and visiting bikers, Kickstands serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a welcoming vibe and top-notch menu. They’ve revitalized the space with major renovations, a brand-new stage, and island-wide delivery. More than that, they’ve made it a place where the community gathers—hosting charity events, supporting local causes, and creating a space that feels like home. 🎸 Ride over on a weekend to catch live music from 1–4 p.m., or just stop in and say hello—you’ll always feel welcome at Kickstands. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📩 Questions or feedback? Reach out at pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Piper, of 1st EnviroSafety, Inc.—a pioneering Pine Island company founded in 1997 and operated by his grandparents, Dr. Ted and Dr. Ann Tidwell. Built on innovation and integrity, the company has developed a line of powerful yet safe solutions, including the Purely Green cleaning and degreasing products, Bio-Wash for boosting agricultural yields and profits, and the Purely Green Bio-Pesticide. These eco-friendly products are non-toxic to humans and animals, offering a smarter alternative to conventional chemicals. Daniel shares what it means to carry on his family’s mission and how he's working to eliminate cancer-causing products from everyday life. 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com. 📩 Got questions? Reach out at pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Chedester, owner of Pine Island Pest Control, to hear how he went from dedicated employee to passionate business owner. Andrew shares what drives him: a deep love for the Pine Island community, a commitment to keeping homes safe, and a belief that real service starts with real relationships. It’s more than pest control—it’s about people. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com. 📩 Got questions? Reach out at pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

In this episode, we’re joined by two wonderful members of Pine Island Community Church’s Hugs Program and Food Pantry team — Pat Downes and LaDonna Lippincott. Alongside their dear friend Dort Koetje, these women are affectionately known as “the Marthas” for their heart of service and gift for hospitality. Each week, they spend Mondays cooking meals with love and care, and on Tuesdays, they bring the prepared dishes to the church, setting up and serving them right next to the Food Pantry. It’s a labor of love, fueled by faith and a deep commitment to serving God’s people. Tune in to hear their inspiring story — and to discover the special reason they’ve earned the name “the Marthas.” 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com. 📩 Got questions? Reach out at pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

In this episode of The Pine Island Experience Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Jennifer Bennett, the vibrant and creative force behind Island Flair—a one-of-a-kind artist boutique nestled in the heart of colorful, artsy Matlacha. Jennifer set out with a dream: to build a lively, welcoming space where local island artists could showcase their work and where makers could come together to teach, learn, and share their crafts. Join us as Jennifer shares the inspiring story of how she turned that dream into reality, her deep-rooted love for the Pine Island community, and the island spirit that continues to fuel her passion. 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com. 📩 Got questions? Reach out at pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

Get ready to meet Zac and Thristina Woodhams, the dynamic duo behind Pine Island Pawn and Jewelry in Matlacha! They joined us on the podcast to share their journey of opening the shop, their passion for the community, and their excitement about welcoming customers. From explaining the ins and outs of the pawn business to showcasing unique jewelry and art, Zac and Thristina are bringing something special to Pine Island. Tune in as they share their story, their vision, and what makes their shop a must-visit. Listen on your favorite podcast app or visit https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this heartwarming episode! We sit down with Lisa Fromm, owner of Sandy Paws Island Dog Bakery & Wash, and her son Codee as they share their journey from passionate dog lovers to running a dream bakery. Lisa opens up about the inspiration behind Sandy Paws, the challenges of turning her vision into reality, and what’s next for their growing business. Tune in on your favorite podcast app or visit https://pineislandexperience.com to listen! For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com.

This podcast is about 2 Fish Inn,  a beautiful, newly remodeled Inn located in the heart of St. James City on Pine Island, Florida.  Two of the owners, Brett and Holly Valentine talk about what it was like to join in partnership with the current owner and assist in the remodeling project.  2 Fish Inn offers single bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, separate bedroom/bath and private patios. The inn offers numerous guest amenities such as a heated pool, water and land sports and new boat slips.  2 Fish Inn is the perfect retreat for those wanting to explore the area, walk to friendly restaurants, go boating, fishing, or simply relax by the pool. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jimmy and Jennifer say Pine Island is the best place ever and they believe they have the most wonderful clientele.   They have everything you could possibly need for fishing in their shop, from new beginners to moms and sons to seasoned pros.   The team at Pine Island Bait and Tackle are so helpful to their customers so much so that their customers come back happily showing them the fish they caught thanks to them.  It’s no surprise that their customers have become their friends and family.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Do not miss this podcast about Wendy White, an artist of many talents who is very happy, extremely positive and in love with continuous learning.  Wendy says yes to every challenge and she always succeeds.  She is a very bright light in all of her endeavors so it is no surprise that she describes her painting in this way;  “Painting is a consistent source of inspiration. As each canvas goes forth in the world they are gifts of light for all to enjoy.” To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This podcast is about a local family business on Pine Island, A. Gonzalez Nursery and Landscaping.  They have thousands of different Palms, Plants, Flowering Shrubs, and much more.   They have been landscaping and delivering quality plants since 2013 while receiving outstanding customer reviews.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Erica’s passion for butterflies began the day she bought 18 Milkweed plants,  the required host plants for caterpillars of the monarch butterfly.  Erica was mentored and now she mentors others on all things butterflies.  As a vocalist, she is extremely talented and engaging.  To see Erica perform, look for announcements of the musical duo, Joy Ride or the full band, Cover Story SWFL.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Captain Chuck Downes has spent many years as an educator and as a charter captain.  His passion is teaching people how to fish.  Captain Chuck is offering 4 weekly seminars at the Pine Island Community Church located at 5320 Doug Taylor Circle in St James City. The sessions are every Wednesday from 6:00pm until 8:00pm, January 29 through February 19.  To reserve a spot or if you have questions, text or call Capt Chuck at 609-412-7328. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Roland Ruocco is a working artist using a diverse array of media and artistic styles with his goal to create beautiful and thought provoking artworks. You will see his beautiful murals on Pine Island and throughout Lee County.  If you are lucky, you may even get to see him creating a mural.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This is about the Ancuram Family Medicine Team,  Best of Pine Island Winner 2024.  The team includes Dr Daniel Hanley, his wife, Nadia Hanley, Alisha Hatch, Nurse Practitioner, Dorothy Holy, Office Manager, Naye Cedeno, Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist,  Joy Stafford, RMA and Phlebotomist, Latricia Dick, Medical Assistant, Abbey Mrozinski, Medical Assistant and Leah Miller, Front Desk.   Dr. Hanley’s approach tends to be practical, common-sense oriented, and logical.  He is results-oriented - as he says, “the proof is in the pudding.” He takes a holistic, empathic view of the patient, as well as their living and support situations.  To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

This podcast is about St John Carpentry Remodels and Repairs.  Jay St John and his son Conner talk about their mission, commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.  As Best of Pine Island Winners for both 2023 and 2024 in cabinets and flooring they are truly living up to their mission. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Captain Will Olds, USCG Master Mariner and owner of Matlacha Boating Adventures describes how he got started running excursions.  He uses his history teacher background to update his passengers often stopping to speak during the excursions.  Be sure to read the Google reviews and you will understand why 75% of his cruisers are repeat customers. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Chris Krueger, Manager and Becky Patterson, Inventory Manager talk about Pine Island’s hardware store, Vision Ace Hardware, located near the center in Bokeelia, Florida.  In a very short time after joining the Vision Ace Hardware Stores, this island hardware store won the Ace 2022, Pinnacle Performance Retailer Award.  It is no surprise that they won as visitors are always greeted with helpful, happy and knowledgeable team members To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, the three original Pipe Dream band members,  Daniel Cook, Isaac Holeva and Bob Lombardo talk about how they got together and how much they enjoy harmonizing and playing music together.  The Pipe Dream band is very popular on Pine Island, having won the Best of Pine Island Band in 2023 and 2024. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Ned Bruha tells his story of how he got started in wildlife control.  Ned believes in humane wildlife control and prevention and doing it right the first time.  He gets them out and keeps them out without trapping, relocating, killing or poisons. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

In this podcast, the delightful Miss Fran Poppell shares her life growing up, raising a family and living on Pine Island.  She describes attending the one room school house on Punta Blanca Island and the many changes she witnessed as Pine Island grew.  She talks about her love of sewing from 11 years of age that continues to bring her joy.  Fran became an artist learning to paint, craft plaques and furniture, make jewelry and create pieces of art using clay and gourds keeping her busy today inside her art studio. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

In this podcast,  Lecia Scott talks about how much she loves her job.  She has been a bartender for Froggy’s for 18 years and she cannot imagine being anywhere else.  She wants to make drinks and make sure her customers are happy.  When you’ve had the pleasure of being served by Lecia and when you listen to her on this podcast, it is no surprise that she is a multiple recipient of The Best of Pine Island Bartender award. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Marvia Cicchino, owner of the Pine island Family Hair Salon, describes what it has been like styling hair for almost fifty years on Pine Island.  Marvia had always wanted to be a hair stylist and she continues to follow her dream.  She recently renovated her hair salon into a modern, highly functional and beautiful salon.  Marvia is an artist and she has included many of her paintings on the new salon walls. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast,  Steve Soloway talks about his construction company, Consumers Contracting Services, an innovative, unique full-service construction company. You will hear how Steve builds a trust relationship with his customers and you will hear his vision for the company.  Steve grew up in construction and he is a realtor.  He realized there was a need for a builder who could build a quality house specific to the customer’s need. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

In this podcast, Pastor Michelle Browne and Jen Jennings speak about the Pine Island Community Church.  Pastor Michelle describes the many services the community church offers and Jen, the Manager of the PICC Thrift Store, shares how she enjoys managing the thrift store.  You will hear how much these wonderful individuals love supporting the Pine Island community.  They will tell you, ‘Loving our neighbors is something we take seriously at PICC.  We believe in LOVE in ACTION.  We are a serving community’. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Pine Island Auto Repair and Patty’s Coastal Decor sit side by side at 8336 Stringfellow Rd in St. James City located quite near the VFW.  This is a story about a lovely married couple who support each other in their businesses and when you meet them, you will see they are quite happy working together.  Bob will tell you his Pine Island Auto Repair stands head and shoulders above the rest. They provide quality service and repairs for your car and light truck.  Patty’s Coastal Decor is filled with the latest finds always changing, new items, vintage decor,  handmade creations, and high-end items at a very reasonable price.  Patty says you will not find this type of inventory anywhere else. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Rich and Carol Evans created a beautifully decorated and customer friendly laundromat, the Ship Shape Laundry Co.,  with Electrolux top rated washers and dryers.  There are lovely, bright customer waiting areas inside and out, including a kids section with puzzles and coloring books. Carol and Rich will keep everything Ship Shape and they look forward to getting to know the people on Pine Island.  They would love it if you would stop in and say Hi. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com  

This podcast addresses many of the questions people have when they have been contacted to be on the podcast.  This is a short podcast containing questions and answers as well as a description of the process. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Tommy Kramer relocated his business, Kramer’s Kutting Edge to 7573 Raymary Street in Bokeelia.  He and Suzanne remodeled the new shop and had it up and running in February 2024.  Tommy can sharpen pretty much anything.  He has over 37 years of locksmithing experience and he has hard to find keys in stock.  He knows how to program, cut and duplicate most car keys/fobs/remotes at around half of the price of the dealer.  He will replace your watch batteries right on Pine Island.  These are a few of his services and he will gladly give you advice and tips as part of his service. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jodi Trusty found her new passion after her children were grown seven years ago.   It’s baking.   Jodi recently opened the Sweet Floret Cakery located in the Matlacha Historic District.   Jodi says she is ecstatic to be opening a shop in the Matlacha Community, … something she envisioned for years.  She tells us her heart is to serve, bring JOY, love, comfort, and a sense of togetherness, through her little shop and the confections that await.  And Jodi says, she can’t wait to meet you! To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Kevin Farley and Michelle Wendt tell their amazing story.  They are both artists.  Kevin is a stand-up comedian and Michelle is a writer and director so it was only natural that they fell in love with the artsy community of Pine Island.  They recently opened the Salt & Poppy Boutique at the center by the 4-Way Stop in Bokeelia.  Michelle will tell you that it’s not a place you just run through because she is hoping you find joy in the unique quality of the store where you can find everything from pet supplies to genuine Kevin Farley merchandise.  And Kevin says, he just wants people to come to the store for unique gifts, things you won’t find anywhere else. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Aaron Barreda,  the Commander of American Legion Post 136 and Co-Founder, Co-Chair of GPIA, Greater Pine Island Alliance.  The American Legion Post 136 was outstanding in recovery relief after Hurricane Ian and the post was awarded Best All Around Post in Florida 2022-2023.  In October 2022, Islanders Aaron Barreda and Jay Sanderson began developing the Greater Pine Island Alliance to work within the community to: Reduce duplication of services, Maximize efficiencies, Connect volunteers and nonprofits providing services with those in need, and Develop funding sources and provide material support for recovery. In December 2022, the Greater Pine Island Alliance was incorporated as a nonprofit 501©3 organization with the mission to provide leadership and coordinated management of the long-term recovery efforts for Greater Pine Island and to provide long-term assistance to individuals and businesses affected by the disaster who do not have adequate personal resources to meet their basic needs.  As Aaron repports in this podcast, the goal is to return every survivor home. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Korrie O’Donnell,  Master Electrician and Owner of Sound Electric in Saint James City, FL on Pine Island tells her story of becoming a master electrician and starting her own company.  Korrie rebuilt after Hurricane Ian and Sound Electric came back bigger and stronger.  Korrie says her most important asset is her team.  Her customer service pledge is to be upfront, be prompt, show up on time and take care of the customer no matter what arises.  Korrie and her team live up to that pledge as demonstrated in the wonderful reviews. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Jeanine Williams, artist and owner of Material Green tells her story of her graphic design background and how she has worked for years in visual design and design.  A 30 year resident of Saint James City, she talks about relocating her Material Green studio and boutique to 5101 Pine Island Rd NW across from Publix.  Jeanine loves textiles and she especially enjoys fabric mixes and upholstery.  She enjoys finding unusual things, including furniture, fabrics, curtains, lampshades, pet beds, antiques and vintage items turning them into an amazing one of a kind and original.  Jeanine faithfully practices her belief: re.do re.new re.use To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com

Listen to Jerry Hook describe what it’s like to be an Audubon Eagle Watch Volunteer on Pine Island, Florida.  Jerry talks about his travel experiences in the United Sates and the world photographing nature, wildlife and landscapes.  His amazing trips include Africa, Antartica, the Arctic, South and Central America, Canada and 46 of the 50 states. To listen to the podcast, use your favorite podcast app or go to our website, https://pineislandexperience.com For more information, email pineislandexperience@gmail.com