Pine Island Experience

🎙 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 creat...

📚✨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...

🥬✨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 Gui...

⚓️📚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...

🌴✨ 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 Coas...

🌴✨ 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...

🌅🐟 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 experi...

🌴💛✨ 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! ✨<...

🌴💛✨ 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.

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...

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...

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...

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 favorit...

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!”

Si...

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 prefer...

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-wi...

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...

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’...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 pin...