Best SWFL Podcasts (2025)

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Sunday, December 21st. Earnings Season Starts Soon. 55:56

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3d ago55:56

55:56

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down distorted economic data and what it really means for the labor market as payroll trends shift in our Week in Review. Inflation may be taking a holiday, but consumer spending remains surprisingly resilient heading into the festive season. Plus, we look ahead to earnings season, where analysts expect double-di…

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Girls on the Run: Building Confidence & Life Skills in SWFL Girls with Kristen Manomat 1:17:22

21d ago1:17:22

1:17:22

Join us as we welcome Kristen Manomat, Executive Director of Girls on the Run of Southwest Florida. Kristen shares her inspiring journey from a 16-year career in elementary education to leading this vital non-profit that is tackling the youth mental health crisis head-on. Learn about the Girls on the Run (GOTR) program, which is much more than just…

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FMBGN-Tequila & Taco Tuesday-La Ola-Breakfast Tacos & a Mango Sunrise 2:24

17h ago2:24

2:24

Sunrise on Fort Myers Beach tastes like warm tortillas and bright mango. We head to La Ola Surfside in Times Square for a quick, flavorful morning session where breakfast tacos meet a mango margarita and local stories meet the sea breeze. This stop brings together the comfort of eggs and sausage, the pop of cheddar jack, and the spark of fresh sals…

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FMBGN-BIZ-Novare Medical & Wellness-Turning Strength Into Longevity And Confidence 22:46

2d ago22:46

22:46

What if the real clock on your life isn’t your age, but your strength? We sit down with Dr. Ivan Bracic, clinical director of Novaré Medical and Wellness in Fort Myers, to unpack why muscle, balance, and nerve health are the foundation of longevity—and how neighbors can rebuild capability without surgery or pills. From the first beach walk after pa…

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FMBGN-RESIDENT-Annie Meehan-Kindness In A Prickly World 20:54

7d ago20:54

20:54

A blueprint for kinder leadership and sharper communication, told through the journey of speaker and author Annie Meehan. We sit down with Annie, a Certified Speaking Professional, to unpack how she transformed a personal story into actionable strategy that audiences can use right away—especially when attention is short and expectations are high. F…

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FMBGN-BIZ-K-Dog Custom Designs-Craft As A Bridge Between Memory, Place, And Community 21:12

8d ago21:12

21:12

A single DIY bar, some leftover lumber, and a flood of Marketplace messages—that’s how K Dog Custom Designs began. We sit down with Kevin and Dawn Lindsey to trace their path from Ohio basements to Fort Myers Beach workshops, where epoxy, local sand, shells, and even shark teeth become functional coastal art. What emerges is a candid look at how a …

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How Detectives Track Thieves & Return Your Stuff with Property Crimes Sgt. Jeremy Niland 22:07

10d ago22:07

22:07

Ever wonder why so many vehicle burglaries happen quietly, in minutes, and often on the same street? On this episode of the Cape CopCast, we sit down with Property Crimes Unit Sergeant Jeremy Niland to map the patterns behind vehicle break-ins, stolen cars, and retail theft, and the small, repeatable steps that stop them. From late-night patrol cat…

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Sunday, December 14th. Fed Pause, Markets Buzz. 55:34

10d ago55:34

55:34

The Fed cut rates but signaled it’s ready to hit pause for a while. In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down why their upbeat tone on productivity could make their job easier, what the board’s mindset might be, and why market expectations for 2026 cuts are already taking shape. Plus, we discuss the confusion around balance sh…

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FMBGN-BIZ-TriPower Vacation Rentals -Rebuilding Paradise 18:27

10d ago18:27

18:27

Sunsets that wash the Gulf in gold. Conversations that turn strangers into friends. And a hospitality comeback that proves resilience can look like joy. We sit down with Melissa Schneider, Chief Marketing Officer at TriPower Vacation Rentals, to explore how Fort Myers Beach is welcoming travelers back with smarter homes, warmer service, and a commu…

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FMBGN-BIZ-The Pier Group-How Smart Redevelopment Can Restore Community Without Losing The Island’s Soul 24:08

11d ago24:08

24:08

Shovel-ready isn’t enough when your town lives on salt air, neighborly kindness, and a street-level rhythm that makes strangers feel welcome. We sit down with realtor and community builder Dennis Wagaman to map out how Fort Myers Beach can bring back small and mid-sized commercial spaces without losing what makes the island feel like home. The plan…

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Memories, Music, and Meaning: A Deep Dive with Jeff Kaminski 2:37:16

11d ago2:37:16

2:37:16

In this episode, Rob and his lifelong friend Jeff Kaminski reminisce about their high school days, the influence of music on their lives, and their profound adventures. From their time as DJs at school dances to Jeff's cross-country sabbatical journey to Alaska, and his career in continuous business transformation, this episode is full of nostalgia…

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FMBGN-BIZ-5 Star Air - What If HVAC Put People Before Profit 20:23

13d ago20:23

20:23

If HVAC quotes have ever felt like a maze, this conversation with 5 Star Air’s Chris Kagan brings a much-needed map. We dig into why he built a repair-first company with no commissioned salespeople, how seasoned technicians change the customer experience, and what transparent pricing looks like when you can see the photos, notes, and logic behind e…

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Sunday, December 7th. Slippery Conditions Ahead. 55:15

16d ago55:15

55:15

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack a week full of conflicting economic signals, from strong holiday spending to softer manufacturing data and surprising labor numbers in our Week in Review. They also take a closer look at tariff discussions, political currents heading into the mid-terms, stress points for retailers and small businesses, a standou…

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A Heartwarming Conversation with Patrick Dearborn: Community, Service, and Resilience 1:52:03

19d ago1:52:03

1:52:03

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Patrick Dearborn, a multifaceted community leader in Naples, Florida, to discuss the intertwining roles of community service, personal resilience, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. Patrick shares profound insights from his diverse experiences, from his time in the 82nd Airborne Division …

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Chief's Chat #28: A Parent's Guide To E-Bikes, Scooters, And Safe Streets 22:13

20d ago22:13

22:13

In this week's episode of the Cape CopCast 'Chief's Chat,' we dive into the surge of juveniles on e-bikes, scooters, and even dirt bikes showing up on our streets, and we get real about what’s fun, what’s legal, and what’s flat-out dangerous. From kids riding three-abreast and blocking traffic, to 30 mph sidewalk rides through shopping centers, we …

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Sunday, November 30th. Santa Rally and Strategy. 55:49

24d ago55:49

55:49

This week’s Week in Review covers major political developments, including President Trump’s upcoming visit to Beijing and the launch of the Genesis Mission, along with fresh data on growth, confidence, inflation, and business sentiment. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen also break down standout corporate stories, shifting consumer trends, and the key e…

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Sunday, November 23rd. Big Moves, Small Signals. 56:44

1M ago56:44

56:44

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack everything from tariff-driven grocery relief to the mixed signals shaping the economy as we head into the holidays. They’ll sort out what’s important now, and what could be coming next. We’ll also look at how parents can create a clear plan to help their kids pay down student loans. And later, the smart end-of-y…

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Running the Distance: Family, Ultra Marathons, and Giving Back 2:18:40

1M ago2:18:40

2:18:40

Join us in an inspiring conversation that weaves together the themes of family heritage, the mental and physical demands of ultramarathons, and the power of community building. Jamie DePaola shares profound insights into her Cherokee and Italian roots, the joy and discipline of long-distance running, and founding a runner's club to foster local con…

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Faith Behind the Badge: A Chaplain's Role in Law Enforcement with Dennis Gingerich 24:09

1M ago24:09

24:09

Behind every strong police department stands a support system that cares for those who protect and serve. For Cape Coral Police Department, that backbone includes our Chaplaincy program and Lead Chaplain Dennis Gingerich. Gingerich has dedicated nearly three decades to supporting Cape Coral Police officers through their darkest moments and greatest…

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Sunday, November 15th. Government funded. For now. 55:20

1M ago55:20

55:20

Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen break down a jam-packed week of headlines in our Week in Review, from the shutdown delay and shifting tariffs to new housing ideas like portable mortgages. We’ll look at what small businesses and big-name earnings are really telling us as we roll into the holidays, and later we’ll uncover “equity compensation” and wheth…

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FMBGN-BIZ-REnew-YU Natural Health - Beauty-Naples-Healing From Within 16:45

1M ago16:45

16:45

Want a fresher face, faster recovery, and a longer, healthier life without needles or quick fixes? We sit down with Dr. Greet of REnew YU Naples to unpack a natural approach that helps the body repair itself using closed-loop bioelectrical modulation. Instead of fillers and toxins, this conversation explores how gentle electrical signals can improv…

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ST INS CARES-Collaboratory-Fueling Community Impact In SWFL 11:07

1M ago11:07

11:07

Big problems don’t shrink on goodwill alone—they change when people, data, and dollars move together. We sit down with Dr. Dawn Belamarich, president and CEO of the Collaboratory, to explore how a 50-year-old regional foundation is turning generosity into measurable progress across Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties. From $132 mil…

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Capturing the Soul of Naples: An Interview with Eileen Arsenault 2:01:55

1M ago2:01:55

2:01:55

In this episode, we delve deep into the heart of Naples with Eileen Arsenault, a longtime resident and living archive of the town's rich history. Eileen shares fascinating stories about her new 240-page book filled with colorful pictures, vintage photographs, and postcards of Naples. She reflects on the challenges of preserving historic districts a…

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Sunday, November 9th. The Job Market Puzzle. 56:57

2M ago56:57

56:57

This week, we unpack the “K-shaped” economy everyone’s talking about. Who’s moving up, who’s sliding down, and what the latest data really says. From layoffs and earnings to tech volatility and political headlines, we break down the stories shaping markets and money right now in our "Week in Review" with Wealth Advisor, Austin Grandinetti and Chief…

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TECH TALK-From Buzzword To Blueprint: Choosing The Right AI For Your Business 27:05

2M ago27:05

27:05

Forget the sci‑fi headlines. We zero in on the kind of AI that actually ships value today and unpack how to choose it, pilot it, and prove ROI without blowing up your workflow. With Ken Johnson from USIT Systems, we sort hype from reality, cut through vendor noise, and focus on targeted wins that save time, reduce errors, and move the bottom line. …

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Sunday, November 2nd. A Big Week for Central Banks. 56:23

2M ago56:23

56:23

It was a big week for central banks — from rate cuts and policy holds to talk of wrapping up quantitative tightening. The Fed made another move, bringing questions about what 2025 might bring. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack the key takeaways in this Week In Review. Plus, we’ll dive into the “Labubu Trend” shaking up the collectibles market an…

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From Rock Bottom to Redemption: The John Huffman Story 1:11:03

2M ago1:11:03

1:11:03

In this powerful episode, John Huffman shares his incredible journey from addiction and despair to becoming a successful entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and devoted father. Hear about John's early life struggles, a life-changing encounter with faith, and how he leverages his experiences to coach business owners and help those battling addiction…

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TECH TALK-Why Working Through A Master Agent Beats Calling Your Local ISP 21:51

2M ago21:51

21:51

Think you’ve only got one real internet option and no leverage when things go down? We unpack a better way to buy and manage connectivity, voice, cloud, and AI by partnering with an independent agent backed by master agencies. Ken Johnson from USIT Systems lays out how a single address check can reveal fiber builds on your street, business-class ci…

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ST INS CARES-4KIDS of SWFL-Homes, Hope, And Healing 19:30

2M ago19:30

19:30

A home for every child sounds simple until you see the real barriers: empty pantries, unstable housing, and trauma that follows kids into every new placement. We sit down with Karlene Masse, Partner Engagement Officer from 4Kids Southwest Florida to unpack how prevention, foster care, and therapy fit together to keep children safe and help families…

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FMBGN-Tequila & Taco Tuesday-Marina Cantina-Come For The Bay Views, Stay For The Coconut Shrimp Tacos 3:36

2M ago3:36

3:36

Beach breeze, clinking ice, and a plate that refuses to behave—this week we head to the brand-new Marina Cantina Waterfront Tin Tiki at Salty Sam's Marina for a first taste that’s equal parts flavor and view. We go straight for a frozen margarita flight—blackberry, strawberry, mango, and watermelon—built with gold tequila, triple sec, sour mix, aga…

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October 26th. A Stalemate, But Finally Some Data 56:31

2M ago56:31

56:31

Finally, some data! The CPI release that determines the 2026 cost of living adjustment for Social Security Benefits is out. Foreign data is still rolling in. China’s challenges are evident…and likely to get worse unless there’s a deal. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen will break it down in our Week in Review. Also on the show, myths about taxes. Was g…

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Building Wealth and Giving Back: Bill Beynon's Story of Success and Philanthropy 1:14:33

2M ago1:14:33

1:14:33

Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the life and journey of William "Bill" Beynon. Discover how growing up in a small steel town shaped his values, the pivotal moments that led him to start Capital Wealth Advisors, and his impactful philanthropic efforts through the annual Turkey Drop initiative. From navigating the volatility of …

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Chief’s Chat #27: Working Together to Stay Florida’s Second Safest City 15:55

2M ago15:55

15:55

A safety ranking means little if it doesn’t match how people actually feel while living their lives. We unpack Cape Coral’s recognition as one of Florida’s safest cities by focusing on the daily experience of residents: running errands without fear, walking to the car without worry, and raising families in neighborhoods where people look out for on…

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Inside a Crash Investigation with Traffic Homicide Investigators Schwigk & Leonard 19:48

2M ago19:48

19:48

What happens after a serious, or even deadly crash? How do investigators determine who's at fault, what caused the tragedy, and whether criminal charges should be filed? In this episode of the Cape CopCast, Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Homicide Investigators George Schwigk and Stephen Leonard pull back the curtain on their specialized world…

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Sunday, October 19th. Big Data Is Coming! 55:05

2M ago55:05

55:05

Treasury Secretary Bessent said the department is prioritizing payments in its system in order to allow for US military staff to be paid. Also, banks have said loan quality is pretty good.By Annex Wealth Management

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Nurturing Young Hearts: Lori's Passion for Arts Education 1:36:08

2M ago1:36:08

1:36:08

Join us in this heartwarming episode as we delve into the life and mission of Lori Oliver, the passionate leader behind the Naples Performing Arts Center (NPAC). Lori shares her inspiring journey from her early love for performing arts to becoming a dedicated educator and mentor. Discover the profound impact NPAC has on children of all ages, teachi…

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Chief's Chat #26: Why Embracing AI Gives Communities Faster, Safer Policing 18:23

2M ago18:23

18:23

What if the camera on an officer’s chest could listen, watch, and turn a call or scene scene into a clean first draft of the report before anyone sits down at a keyboard? We dig into the real-world ways AI is changing police work in Cape Coral—speeding up documentation, meeting urgent NCIC deadlines for missing kids, and giving officers more time w…

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FMBGN-BIZ- TITLE ADAM - Keeping Closings Smooth For Buyers, Sellers, And Builders 17:43

2M ago17:43

17:43

Real estate dreams are built on more than sunshine and signatures. We sat down with Title Adam, a Florida title insurance pro with deep Southwest Florida roots, to unpack how safe closings actually happen: from verifying identities and ownership to navigating wire fraud attempts that hit inboxes at the worst possible moment. If you’ve ever wondered…

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Sunday, October 12th - Data Drought 56:12

2M ago56:12

56:12

The government shutdown. TSA agents are calling in sick. That ended the shutdown in 2019. Will it this time? ACA subsidies are the sticking point. That and anxious investors drive gold prices above $4,000 an ounce, marking its best year since the 1976.By Annex Wealth Management

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Chief's Chat #25: Next-Level Policing Starts with You (Join the Team!) 15:21

3M ago15:21

15:21

Think of a police department that treats excellence like a system, not a slogan—where performance, pay, wellness, and readiness all move together. We’re nearly fully staffed, crime is down double digits, and our response times are trending in the right direction. Now we’re aiming higher, inviting top talent to bring their experience without losing …

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Fierce, Fed & Free: Laura's Real Talk on Women, Wellness & Nutrition 1:44:41

3M ago1:44:41

1:44:41

In this episode of 'Spotlight on Good People,' we meet Laura Dalsanto Wu, founder of Bella Diva Wellness. Laura shares her journey from competitive fitness to facing a life-changing health scare that reshaped her outlook on wellness. She emphasizes the importance of balance, listening to your body, and empowering women to live their best lives. Lau…

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Sunday, October 5th - Shutdown: More Than Meets the Eye 56:00

3M ago56:00

56:00

Could the government shutdown signal deeper cuts to federal employment? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review. Also on the show: Smart planning strategies for medical professionals, meaningful ways grandparents can support their grandchildren, and an inside look at the Annex process for High-Net-Worth clients.…

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Navigating Life and Business: How Synergy, Thrive, and Community Shape Dr. Stephanie Ahasic's World 2:42:04

3M ago2:42:04

2:42:04

In this episode, we dive into an engaging conversation with Dr. Stephanie Ahasic, a dedicated chiropractor and the driving force behind Synergy Health and Thrive IV Bar in Naples, Florida. Stephanie shares her journey from Chicago to Naples, providing insights into her entrepreneurial spirit, life as a mother and wife, and her deep-rooted commitmen…

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FMBGN-Icon-How Jameson the Sunglassed Beach Dog Built Community, Joy, and Hope on FMB 14:59

3M ago14:59

14:59

A tiny car, a pair of pink sunglasses, and a beachside town that decided to choose joy—meet Jameson, the Fort Myers Beach icon whose daily strolls turned into a movement of smiles and neighborly kindness. We sit down with Adrian and Alice Barrett to trace the unlikely path from a Sarasota pup to a community legend, and the surprising ways a dog can…

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Sunday, September 28th. Another shutdown? 55:51

3M ago55:51

55:51

With the federal government's fiscal year-end nearing and no compromise in sight, join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. This episode also explores the 4% retirement rule, Warren Buffett-style estate planning, why your 401(k) isn’t a piggy bank, and common myths about trusts.By Annex Wealth Management

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From Addict to Architect of His Own Life: Blake's Sobriety Story 1:10:11

3M ago1:10:11

1:10:11

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Blake shares his extraordinary journey from addiction and crime to becoming a successful entrepreneur and community leader. Blake reflects on his struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, his turning point at St. Matthew's House, and the invaluable lessons he learned from various mentors, including Brian…

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Bridging Barriers: Bilingual Policing with Chief Sizemore, Officer Prieto & Officer Rodriguez (in Español AND English) 14:27

3M ago14:27

14:27

Language can be the difference between getting help in a crisis or suffering in silence. It's Hispanic Heritage month, and in this special edition of 'Chiefs Chat' on the Cape CopCast, Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore sits down with Officer Carlos Prieto and Officer Amanda Rodriguez to explore how the police force is evolving to serve its r…

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Sunday, September 21st. A bowling ball of growth? 55:27

3M ago55:27

55:27

Economic growth may have already weathered its toughest challenges, with brighter days likely ahead. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss the Federal Reserve’s latest decision. The show also examines 529 plans for education savings, key steps to selling a business, estate planning considerations for remarriage, and strategie…

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ST INS CARES-The Sally J Pimentel Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center: Supporting a Vital Community Need 16:09

3M ago16:09

16:09

Did you know there's only one nonprofit deaf service center between Tampa and Miami? The Sally J Pimentel Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center stands as a critical lifeline serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals across five Florida counties, addressing challenges that many of us never consider. Executive Director Amy Turner takes us behind the sce…

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From Local Diamonds to Major League Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Carmen Cali 2:11:27

3M ago2:11:27

2:11:27

In this episode of the Spotlight on Good People, we sit down with Carmen Cali, the first Naples High School graduate to reach Major League Baseball. Carmen shares his journey from humble beginnings in Naples, Florida, to playing for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Minnesota Twins. Discover how this exceptional athlete overcame obstacles, embraced h…