I am joined by the Director of Hospitality at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala. We talk about the opportunities the facility has to offer. Employment, events, and future expansion. The upcoming food and wine festival on August 21st including a chance to meet, Florida resident, restauranteur, and Food Network star, Chef Art Smith. Food, shopping, and all things WEC.

In this episode, I am joined by Karla Greenway, the CEO at Interfaith Emergency Services. We discuss the issues, and opportunities, with the homeless and struggling residents in Marion County. The diversity of the homeless population and how we must provide care and resources to ensure that basic human needs are fulfilled.

I am joined by Michael Palma owner of Palma Productions. A video production company focused on business marketing and workplace production for local companies. We talk about the business, the shift in digital marketing, the need for quality content, the growth of Ocala, and so much more.

I am joined by local artists EJ Nieves and Andres Garcia. We talk about the power and impact of art in the community. The struggle of those who want to choose negativity. The need to promote local art, in all styles, and allow a freedom to express yourself. Comicon, superheroes, N.E.H.S. studios, the impact of supporting everything local, and more.  Also, I learn a secret about EJ that may startle many of you!

I am joined by Brian Morey, Sommelier, Owner, and Chef of Morevino restaurant. We discuss fine food, wine pairing, traveling the world, and supporting local. Buying produce from the market and meat from local farms.

I welcome Robert Allen from Roz's Cigar Emporium. Robert is also the Director of Logistics for Cigars for Warriors. We talk about great cigars, charity involvement, food, and supporting local.

I am joined by the author of several cookbooks including "Asian cooking made easy" and "The Little Book of Asian Noodles" as she shares her story of triumph and the American dream. Her passion for cooking and creating unique dishes. I also learn that the word "Pho" doesn't mean anything!

I am joined by local business owner Julian Sinisterra and we discuss supporting local, Life in the Navy including (East Coast vs. West Coast), owning a business and networking in the community. We talk about his involvement in Vetnet and the Hispanic business Council. Great conversation and many laughs!

I am joined by friend, celebrity Chef, Navy Veteran and Food Network show winner, Chef Amadeus, as we talk about the passion for cooking.  Flavor profiles, trying new dishes, exploring the U.S. (and the world) and... dehydrated watermelon? His commitment to making Chefs for passion and not Chefs for paychecks. His upcoming return to Puerto Rico and so much more!

Joined by Kevin Sheilley, President/CEO of Ocala Metro Chamber and economic partnership. Honored as the National Chamber of the year in 2020. We talk about the growth of Ocala. 4th largest growing Metro in the U.S. averaging 150 new residents per week. New businesses, new roads, new apartments, and new opportunities. Did you know that Marion County is number one, in the nation, in entrepreneurship?  The tallest building in Marion County and, of course, restaurants.

I am joined by the Media Director for the World Equestrian Center in Ocala. We discuss this amazing facility designed to be a community destination for events, shows, dining, and casual fun. From five-star restaurants and high-end shopping to casual bars and local merchants. This Marion County addition is unlike anything in the world!  AMAZING!

The Banana Foodie welcomes food blogger, author, food photographer, and singer Gregory Halpen. We talk about his life in restaurants and theater, his life changing event of being diagnosed with Cancer and the chemotherapy that followed, and the creation of "craving the yum". Changing habits while still indulging in the pleasures of life!   https://www.cravingtheyum.com/

I am joined by April McDonald, the Executive director of Project Hope in Ocala. We talk about Hope Village a complex committed to ensuring safe housing for women and families in need. Faith based programs, success stories and the need for more community support. http://www.projecthopeocala.org/

I am joined by Chef Erik Youngs (AKA the Voodoo Chef) as we talk about his charities, the restaurant industry, the five food groups, food and more!

I am joined by the amazing Sonda Eunus. Founder of "Leading Marketing Solutions" and 2020 Ambassador Co-Chair of Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership. We talk about the importance of a good marketing strategy, networking, and community involvement. Support Local and get involved!

I have a great conversation with the owners, Narissa and Jasmin, of Impact Island Cafe. We talk about their transition from the island of Antigua (and I learn how to pronounce that) to the serving delicious Island flavor to our community. Their involvement in a 5013c called Kingdom Goals, family, Covid, and the hurtful lies spread on social media that left them with death threats.

I am joined by business owner and world traveler, Andi Radziewicz Somers. Owner of Food Safety Training and Exams. We talk about meeting Presidents and Kings, The Horse community and Food health and safety.  Oh, the stories we tell!!

Tim Thomas, owner of Brooklyn's Backyard, joins me to talk about the struggle, and joy, of restaurant ownership. Keeping the menu creative, dealing with social media, Life after COVID, and Florida's Amendment two.

I sit down with Local advocate Karen Grimes. Realtor, Horse lover and owner of both Farm tours Ocala and Ocala food walks. We talk about the growth of Ocala, the World Equestrian Center and, of course, food.

I am joined by owner, and brewer, of Hiatus Brewing Company, Lucas Frank. We discuss local growth, challenges in the restaurant world, COVID, and, of course, Beer!  Support Local!