Pine Island Experience

🎣 Being on the water has a way of bringing people together — friends, family, and even someone you’ve just met. Add a Pine Island sunset and dolphins 🐬 surfacing nearby, and it becomes something truly special. In this episode, we talk with Debbie Hanson, award-winning outdoor writer, professional fishing guide, and Community Outreach Director for the Freedom Waters Foundation. Debbie shares her passion for introducing women to fishing and building confidence, connection, and community on the water. 🎣 Women’s Free Fishing Seminar 📅 Saturday, March 7, 9:00 – Noon at The Eagles Nest Restaurant Tiki Hut 👩‍🦰 Designed for ladies — beginners welcome 📍 Pine Island It’s not just about fishing — it’s about shared moments, new friendships, and discovering the joy of being out on the water together. ✨“Patience, perseverance, peace, connection, community.  Those would be my top answers.  I know especially here on Pine Island, there’s such a tight-knit fishing community and one of the wonderful things that I think fishing has brought to my life is that feeling of community especially with my other women angling friends. When we get together we have so much fun and we share so many stories and have such a great time.” — Capt. Debbie Hanson✨ 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📧 We’d love to hear your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

🏝️ In this episode, we’re joined by Staci Stevens, local realtor and broker-owner of Castaways Island Realty & Rentals. Staci Stevens shares her journey, her love for the island, and the heart behind Castaways Island Realty & Rentals.🩵 This is a heartfelt conversation about island life, family, and building a business rooted in community. As the owner of Castaways Island Realty & Rentals, Staci shares what makes Pine Island living so special, how island real estate is truly one of a kind, and why helping people find their place here means so much to her. This episode is a warm look at home, resilience, and loving where you live. 🏝️ Island Knowledge 🌅 💛 Energy and Heart ⭐ Boutique Experience — Family Feel 🏡 Full Service — Buying, Selling and Rentals ✨“I have a degree in secondary education and biology. I have a masters in special ed that I got after the first two children were born, and I never intended on being in the position I’m in currently other than I do like real estate a lot. And so, getting into that was not natural based on my education degree but at the same time I just say I teach people about real estate now instead.” — Staci Stevens✨ 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 📧 We’d love to hear your thoughts: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

⚓ Alan and AJ Ferrera, a dynamic father and son team with a commitment 🩵 🚤 In this episode, we’re joined by Alan and AJ Ferrera, the father-and-son team behind A & A Boat and Equipment Services — a veteran-owned, licensed, and insured mobile service proudly serving Pine Island and Matlacha. 🌊 Alan and AJ share their Navy backgrounds, what it’s like working together as family, and how their mobile repair services help keep boats, trailers, generators, lawn equipment, and small engines running reliably. It’s a conversation about service, trust, and community — Pine Island style. 📍 Serving Pine Island & Matlacha 🛠 🚐 Mobile repair available 🇺🇸 Veteran Owned & Operated ✨“I’m not the type of person to look at a customer and be like well, I can’t fix it.  You entrusted me to work on your equipment to begin with so I’m going to actually fix it.” — AJ Ferrera✨ 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com

🎣 The 5th Annual PICC Free Fishing Seminar Series Returns for 2026! Captain Chuck Downes is back, joined by expert presenter Dan Carns, to bring a refreshed and more focused approach to fishing education. This year’s free seminar series dives deeper into snook, redfish and spotted seatrout behavior — where to find them, how they live, and what to present throughout the seasons. 📍 Held at the Eagles Nest Restaurant’s new large tiki hut 🗓 Saturdays, February 7–29 | 9:00 AM – Noon 🎉 Bonus Women’s Angler Seminar: Saturday, March 7 💺 Free to attend — just bring a chair In this Pine Island Experience Podcast episode, Chuck and Dan share what’s new and why anglers of all experience levels will benefit from this year’s series. 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 🎧 Listen to the podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8zuPKxsuzdusG0RbUHoQXijz0KSy0LUe 📧 We’d love to hear from you: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

🎙 Season 4 begins with laughter, reflection, and storytelling. The delightful Tom Chase joined us on the Pine Island Experience Podcast for a conversation filled with humor, heart, and insight. Tom shares the moment he first discovered the power of making people laugh, stories from growing up in Plant City, Florida, and how those early experiences shaped a life that would include law, mediation, comedy, storytelling, and poetry. Along the way, Tom also treats us to readings from his poetry — offering a thoughtful glimpse into another side of his creative life. ✨ “Even as a kid, I didn’t like seeing people get treated unfairly. If no one was going to say something about it, I was.” — Thomas C. Chase 🎧 Listen on any podcast app or at pineislandexperience.com 🎧 Listen to the podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8zuPKxsuzdusG0RbUHoQXijz0KSy0LUe 📧 We’d love to hear from you: pineislandexperience@gmail.com

📚✨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