Best Michael Tolbert Podcasts (2025)

1
Cracks in the GOP: State legislators and the Governor spar over tax cuts and tourism. 28:03

3d ago28:03

28:03

The usually united Governor and the Republican dominated legislature forces the 2025 session into overtime or special session to iron out tax differences, including the bed taxes which partially fund Visit Jacksonville and other cities tourist marketing organizations to a standstill. Visit Jacksonville's CEO Michael Corrigan joins the Mikes to disc…

1
UNF’s Michael Binder Unpacks the Political Drama Dividing Florida—from Jacksonville's City Hall to Tallahassee 23:47

10d ago23:47

23:47

UNF Professor Michael Binder returns to Mikes on Mic to share his thoughts on the current political climate in Tallahassee as the governor finds his influence on the legislature waning. Dr. Binder also gives his assessment of Democrat Mayor Deegan's first 22 months and her relationship with the super majority Republican City Council and her priorit…

1
Inside Jacksonville with Mayor Donna Deegan! 20:28

17d ago20:28

20:28

Join Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Hightower as they sit down for an in-depth conversation with Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, broadcasting live from her office in City Hall. Mayor Deegan reflects on her first 22 months, since taking office in July 2023). They dive into crucial topics facing Jacksonville. Tune in to the show on your favorit…

1
Bryce Charles from Starkid's newest show 'Cinderella's Castle' 55:12

18d ago55:12

55:12

In this episode of Story Matters, Bryce Charles (Ella Ashmore) joins me to talk about the creative whirlwind of bringing Starkid’s Cinderella’s Castle to life. From developing Ella’s emotional journey to exploring the dynamic between Ella and Tadius, Bryce shares what it was like to take on the lead role in a brand-new Starkid musical, all while bu…

1
From Polling to Frontlines: Bruce Barcelo’s Mission Shift in Ukraine’s Darkest Hour 21:51

24d ago21:51

21:51

Mikes on Mic welcomes political strategist-turned-humanitarian Bruce Barcelo for a gripping, behind-the-scenes look at how one nonprofit transformed overnight when war broke out in Ukraine. When Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Bruce—an American pollster with three decades of ties to the country—didn’t just watch the headlines. He answe…

1
Jacksonville political pollster's thoughts on his long relationship with Ukraine 25:25

1M ago25:25

25:25

Jacksonville's Bruce Barcelo has had a personal relationship consulting the government of Ukraine since before the Russian invasion three years ago. Bruce joins the Mikes this week and next with his observations about Ukraine's independence from the former Soviet Union and helping them in their democratization process and their elections. Tune in t…

1
Was the murder trial of Kenneth Hartley a case of an innocent man wrongfully sentenced or perhaps railroaded prosecution? 29:58

1M ago29:58

29:58

In 1991, Gino Mayhew, age 17, was kidnapped and murdered.Kenneth Hartley was convicted of kidnapping and murder and sentenced to die in the electric chair. But there were many questions about the case, particularly the testimony against Hartley coming from jailhouse informants. Our guest this week is Tributary reporter Nichole Manna who investigate…

1
Politics: Showmanship or Statesmanship? 24:14

1M ago24:14

24:14

Two very important issues we may be facing in the coming months; Eliminating property taxes as a source of local revenue, and Duval DOGE. Councilman Matt Carlucci again joins the Mikes to give us his take on both of these potential game changers. Join us on this week’s episode of Mikes on Mic. Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platfor…

1
Following Up on Downtown Development 35:42

2M ago35:42

35:42

What’s the latest on downtown development? Mikes on Mic this week again features Downtown Investment Authority CEO, Lori Boyer. We’re seeing more cranes popping up downtown meaning more projects are breaking ground. Where are we in residential and commercial development? We discuss that and other issues with DIA CEO Lori Boyer this week on Mikes On…

1
Mixing it up with the Mikes 29:19

2M ago29:19

29:19

Mikes On Mic is holding a round table discussion of some of the most current issues facing NE Florida and the state. They discuss the current rift between Mayor Deegan and former City Council president Ron Salem over how to negotiate the deal for the UF Grad School. The Mikes also discuss the $3 billion deficit in the Police Pension Fund and rampin…

1
The evolution of the Jacksonville Civic Council with CEO Dennis Whittle 25:57

2M ago25:57

25:57

In 1993, the so-called Non-Group was formed at the time to tackle education issues in Jacksonville. In 2009, the organization of civic minded business leaders disbanded the Non Group and created the Jacksonville Civic Council. While the group was still focusing on important issues facing the city, it broadened the issues they addressed including th…

1
2025 Academy Awards with Joey Richter! 2:06:37

2M ago2:06:37

2:06:37

We're back with the only Academy Award discussion you need! Joey Richter returns to talk all things Oscars 2025! Join us as we dive into the year's best films! Join my Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/curtmega Follow me on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/curtmega Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curtmega Follow me on Twitte…

1
Reflections from a former Mayor 28:22

2M ago28:22

28:22

Jacksonville’s mayor and the City Council have recently faced some difficult and at times controversial decisions about current and future issues which share one thing in common; they all cost money? What projects and programs should the city help finance and where will the money come from? Who better to ask than a former mayor who faced and dealt …

1
Tariffs and a change in ownership of the Panama Canal impact Jaxport? 26:27

3M ago26:27

26:27

JaxPort is a major economic engine for NE Florida. How might tariffs and a change in ownership of the Panama Canal impact JaxPort? Our guest this week on Mikes on Mic is Robert Peek, JaxPort’s Chief Commercial Officer. We discuss how those two major international policies might impact business at the port. Join us this week for an in depth discussi…

1
Jacksonville's Media Landscape: Nate Monroe Talks Changes and Challenges 25:24

3M ago25:24

25:24

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Nate Monroe, a distinguished columnist and newly appointed executive editor of the Tributary. Join us as we explore Nate's illustrious career, his motivations for transitioning from the Florida Times Union and USA Today Network to the Tributary, and his vision for high-impact journalism in Jacksonville and beyon…

1
Some trashy talk on this week’s Mikes On Mic 30:29

3M ago30:29

30:29

Jacksonville’s resident trash collection fee hasn’t increased in nearly 15 years. As a result the only way to meet the ever increasing service costs is to continue borrowing the deficit from the general fund. Councilman Matt Carlucci has filed a bill to increase the fees for the service. Raising fees and taxes, however, is never easy and his challe…

1
How Will Government Actions on State & Federal Level Impact Jacksonville & The NE Florida Region? 25:14

3M ago25:14

25:14

The three Mikes this week give you their take on some potentially impactful state and national issues that would impact NE Florida. How would Jaxport be affected if the US tries to take re-control of the Panama Canal? Is the state trying to dictate to school systems regarding start times at state middle and high schools? Locally, will we finally se…

1
Reflecting on Four Decades: Jim Piggott Talks Local Journalism and Jacksonville 33:06

4M ago33:06

33:06

Welcome to another episode of Mikes on Mic where we dive into conversations about politics, government, and the Jacksonville community. Today we are joined by veteran journalist Jim Piggott. With an impressive 39-year career in broadcast news, including decades at WJXT and WJKS, Jim shares insights into his extensive experience covering local gover…

1
Inside the Mayor Deegan's administration with veteran civil servant and Chief of Staff Mike Weinstein 33:58

4M ago33:58

33:58

Mike Weinstein has served in numerous roles of city government and as an Asst. State Attorney. He started as an interim Finance Dir. when the new administration began, headed the negotiations for the Stadium of the Future with the Jaguars, and now serves as the Mayor's Chief of Staff. How is this administration different from others he's served in?…

1
From peanut farmer to the White House: A personal history of Pres. Jimmy Carter 27:35

4M ago27:35

27:35

Producer Scott Westerman serves as ringmaster this week as the Mikes pay tribute to former president Jimmy Carter. Each of the Mikes has a personal history with Pres. Carter in the political arena, as well as, in the media. Tune in and hear about the personal stories of the Mikes and their relationship with the 39th president of the United States. …

1
Looking Ahead in 2025, Mikes Speculate How National Elections Might Impact Jacksonville & Florida 20:54

4M ago20:54

20:54

Looking Ahead to 2025. The Mikes share a behind-the-scenes analysis of recent events impacting local Republican leadership, and look into the 2025 crystal ball, with predictions and insights about North Florida’s influence on both the State and National political stage. Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com …

1
Navigating Leadership Styles and Public Service with Audrey Moran 32:53

5M ago32:53

32:53

Jacksonville icon, Audrey Moran joins the Mikes to review a lifetime of public service, the people who have most inspired her and the powerful message she shared at the recent Leadership Jacksonville banquet. A memorable conversation with an unforgettable personality. Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com Ap…

1
Florida Politics: Trump's Appointments, Casey DeSantis Speculation, and Nate Monroe's Insights 30:52

5M ago30:52

30:52

Welcome back to a new episode of Mikes On Mic! Today we're diving into the tangled web of Florida politics with special guest, Nate Monroe, a seasoned columnist from USA Today's network. Join us as we dissect the rumored reconciliation between Trump and DeSantis, question the political stratagems behind key appointments, and explore the dynamic pol…

1
A free publication focusing on issues important to our senior community 32:48

5M ago32:48

32:48

On this week's episode of Mikes on Mic, our guest is Mischelle Grant, publisher of First Coast Senior Living, a monthly magazine featuring stories and highlighting services important to our seniors. While Mikes on Mic is the cover story for their December issue, we were interested in finding out about the magazine along with the incredible backgrou…

1
Story Matters with Starkid's Meredith Stepien! 1:05:45

5M ago1:05:45

1:05:45

On this episode of the podcast, I had the absolute joy of chatting with the brilliant and delightful Meredith Stepien. We dove into our shared love for VHS Christmas Carols, the art of crafting cinematic vibes that radiate coziness and calm, and the beauty of embracing imperfection. Meredith also shares her perspective on releasing the weight of am…

1
Jacksonville's Year in Review: Hopes and Surprises for 2025 16:47

5M ago16:47

16:47

Reflecting on 2024 & Looking Ahead to 2025 In this special episode of Mikes on Mic, Mike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert take a look back at the highs, lows, and surprises of 2024 while sharing their hopes for the year ahead. From the fallout of the Jacksonville Electric Authority sale to memorable guest appearances that lit up the show, t…

1
Susie Wiles Revisited 23:43

6M ago23:43

23:43

Last April, Mikes on Mic interviewed Politico magazine's reporter Michael Kruse about his in-depth and comprehensive profile of Jacksonville political operative Susie Wiles on her extensive political experience and her role as co-chair of Donald Trump's campaign. Now the election is over and Susie has been appointed as the incoming president's Chie…

1
Bridging Divides: Faith, Politics, and Community Insights with Rabbi Glasser 37:44

6M ago37:44

37:44

In today's special episode we sit down with the inspiring Rabbi Maya Glasser to explore the deep ties between community, faith, and personal growth in challenging times. From the Jewish principle of tikkun olam (Repairing the World) to living in the present, Rabbi Glasser shares profound wisdom on navigating loss, fostering healthy disagreements, a…

1
Unpacking Florida's Election: Key Winners, Losers, and Emerging Dynamics 29:17

6M ago29:17

29:17

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic, your Jacksonville podcast for in-depth political discussions and insights. Today we dive into the post-election landscape with UNF Political Science professor, Dr. Michael Binder. We unpack the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in Florida, including their struggles to unify progressives and moderates, as well as…

1
Election Day Insights and Behind-the-Scenes Campaign Comments 55:18

6M ago55:18

55:18

Welcome to another episode of "Mikes on Mic," the podcast where we talk politics, government, and all things Jacksonville! Today, we've got stories, laughs, and career highlights from our hosts Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Hightower, along with our producer, Scott Westerman. Tolbert kicks off with a funny campaign story about a "BRATLEY FILE…

1
Counting the votes and comparisons with the election of 2020 31:17

6M ago31:17

31:17

With one of the most important elections of our lifetime coming up, Duval Supervisor of Elections, Jerry Holland joins Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower and Mike Miller to discuss how Duval County voter data has changed since 2020, the increase in Non Party Affiliated voters and the massive task of tallying the numbers. The group discusses the evolution…

1
Unpacking Duval County's Loaded Ballot: What You Need to Know Before Voting with Dr. Michael Binder 27:29

7M ago27:29

27:29

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic! Today, we're breaking down the complexities of the upcoming November 5th general election. Join us as we discuss: How cell phones and robocalls are changing voter outreach through polling mechanics. The key statewide and local elections that will impact governance. The rise of negative campaigning and its effect on vot…

1
A look into the complex issue of Homelessness 32:50

7M ago32:50

32:50

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic! Homelessness in Jacksonville is a growing problem and our city is a leader in services to the homeless community. But some on the City Council who hold the purse strings are reluctant to fully fund Mayor Deegan's initiatives. This week, we visited with the executive director of Jacksonville's award-winning Sulzbacher C…

1
Surviving Helene: Florida to North Carolina's Unforeseen Battle 16:45

7M ago16:45

16:45

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic! Today we pivot from our planned discussion to focus on the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, a catastrophic storm that has devastated parts of Florida and the southern United States. We will be talking about community, resilience, and the power of human spirit in the face of disaster. We thank all the first resp…

1
Revitalizing Jacksonville: Warren Jones Reflects on Downtown, Schools, and Community Service 34:26

7M ago34:26

34:26

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic! your go-to podcast for politics, government, and current events in Jacksonville. In today's episode, we have the honor of hosting Warren Jones, a longtime public servant and current school board member. Join us as we dive deep into pressing issues facing Duval County Schools, including upcoming school closures, financi…

1
Innovating Transit: JTA CEO Nat Ford’s Vision for Jacksonville’s Future 35:58

8M ago35:58

35:58

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic! Today we are again featuring Nat Ford, the CEO of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). With an extensive background of working in major markets like San Francisco, Atlanta, and New York City, Nat Ford shares his experience in managing various transit modes—from streetcars to autonomous vehicles. Join us as …

1
Jacksonville's Budget Battle: Discussing Mayor Deegan’s Controversial $1.9 Billion Proposal with David Bauerline 29:54

8M ago29:54

29:54

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic! Today we dive into the pivotal debates surrounding Jacksonville’s 2024-25 Budget! Tensions arise as we explore partisan influences on salary adjustments, the contentious funding decisions for the Mayor's Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and the fate of the $56 million park fund tied to the Jaguars deal. Discover how …

1
Welcome To The New State Of Florida, Homelessness Solutions & Budget Battles 25:18

8M ago25:18

25:18

The Mikes On Mic crew is taking the week off in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Enjoy this encore presentation of the podcast discussing Councilman Rory Diamond and the discussion about the governor’s new state slogan, “Welcome to the Free State of Florida” Tune in to the show in your favorite Podcasting Plaform. Apple Podcasts: https://podcas…

1
Is there a shift in the political landscape in Jacksonville? The Tributary’s Andrew Pantazi joins Mike On Mic 30:54

8M ago30:54

30:54

Welcome to Mikes on Mic! On this week’s episode we delve into Jacksonville's politics focusing on the recent primary election and its implications for the upcoming general election. What might be the impact of the potential abortion and marijuana constitutional amendment proposals have on voter turnout? We also discuss the surprising outcomes of sc…

1
Homelessness Solutions, Budget Battles, and Jacksonville’s Quest for an Iconic City Identity 25:18

9M ago25:18

25:18

Welcome back to Mikes on Mike! Today, we discuss political tensions in Jacksonville. We'll have some interesting clips from Rory Diamond, Michael Corrigan, and Major Donna Deegan. First, we examine Council Member Rory Diamond's controversial actions. He's had notable clashes with the mayor over budget and policies. Next, we address Jacksonville's i…

1
Florida Freedom Unpacked: Local Control, Bans, and Political Messaging with Mark Woods 26:25

9M ago26:25

26:25

Welcome to another engaging episode of Mikes on Mic! Today, we discuss some controversial and engaging local topics. Mark Woods, a respected columnist, shares his insights on these (including the new Florida signs) and the unexpected reactions they have sparked across the state. Today we also talk about: - The origins and impact of Florida’s new st…

1
Investigating JEA: Curry's Role and Community Impact 32:55

9M ago32:55

32:55

Behind the JEA Sale: Mike Hightower, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Miller's Insights Welcome back to Mikes on Mic! Today we are again talking about the attempted sale of JEA, Jacksonville's public utility service and the four-year prison sentence handed down on former JEA CEO Aaron Zahn. We'll be talking about Steve Busey's year-long investigation that re…

1
Investing in Jacksonville: Infrastructure, Health, and Safety with Mayor Donna Deegan 27:42

9M ago27:42

27:42

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic. Today break down the transformative $1.9 billion budget for Jacksonville presented by Mayor Donna Deegan. Explore how investments in infrastructure, police, and fire services are set to bring long-term returns, and learn about the aggressive push to secure federal funding for key projects like the Emerald Trail and the…

1
Examining City Council & Mayor Deegan's Budget Impact on Jacksonville with AG Gankarski 34:45

10M ago34:45

34:45

First, there's the upcoming debate in the city council over the Mayor’s $1.9 billion budget proposal. Next, we're looking at the fight over the state ballot initiatives legalizing recreational marijuana and abortion rights. We’ll talk about these topics and others with our guest columnist AG Gancarski. Tune in for a closer look at the forces shapin…

1
Has Florida Politics Taken a Dark Turn? Discover the Shocking Truth About Eroding Ethics Laws! 39:44

10M ago39:44

39:44

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic. We're dissecting the erosion of home rule and ethics laws, the concerning right-wing influence, and the limitations being placed on local ethics commissions. We explore the chilling effect of requiring personal knowledge of ethics violations and the elimination of anonymous complaints, which hinder whistleblowers. Tune…

1
One Year Anniversary with Dr. Alan Bliss 42:51

10M ago42:51

42:51

The Mikes celebrate the one year anniversary of Mikes on Mic with a look back at highlights from the past 51 episodes, including Sheriff Nat Glover, Michael Krause of Politico on the power and influence of political consultant Susie Wiles, memories of the early Jacksonville Jazz Festivals and UNF pollster Dr. Michael Bender on the changing politica…

1
Behind the Scenes with Mayor Deegan's Chief of Staff Darnell Smith 26:20

10M ago26:20

26:20

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic. As we approach our one-year anniversary, today's episode features a special guest, Darnell Smith, the accomplished Chief of Staff for Mayor Deegan. Darnell shares insider perspectives on his transition from Florida Blue to city government, his role in the historic $1.4 billion stadium renovation deal, and the complex d…

1
Revolutionizing Jacksonville: Inside the Jaguars' Stadium Overhaul with Mark Lamping 39:15

11M ago39:15

39:15

As we wrap up our 3-part series on the proposed stadium renovation and Community Benefit Agreement, our guest is Mark Lamping, president of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Mr. Lamping discusses the transformative vision behind the Jaguars Stadium renovation project. With enthusiasm and strategic foresight, Lamping outlined how this ambitious initiative w…

1
Debating Downtown Development and Public Safety with Dr. Michael Binder 34:09

11M ago34:09

34:09

Join us in today's episode. We will explore the latest polling results. They show positive job approval ratings for key city officials and unexpected public support for downtown development. Dr. Michael Binder sheds light on critical issues like public safety, crime in Duval County, and the high-stakes decisions surrounding the stadium redevelopmen…

1
Proposed Jaguars Stadium, Funding and Community Benefits: David Bauerlein Breaks it Down 34:53

11M ago34:53

34:53

This is the first of three episodes focusing on the proposal to renovate the stadium. In this first episode, our guest, Times Union reporter David Bauerlein, joins us to dissect the ongoing discussions about the proposed stadium deal and Community Benefits Agreement with the Jaguars. We talk about the importance of transparency and engagement with …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Michael Tolbert Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen