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" and a dog race bet, while Hightower shares lessons from his shift to Blue Cross Blue Shield and his key role in the 2000 Bush vs. Gore election.

Miller recounts a memorable 1976 interview with Jimmy Carter and his move from broadcasting to Jacksonville city government.

Join us for a fun mix of campaign tales, political insights, and a sneak peek at our next guest, Dr. Michael Binder, who will break down the 2024 election results.

Let's dive in!

00:00 Mike Tolbert: Political strategist, longtime collaborator introduction.

05:30 Meeting with Jacksonville leaders about mayoral election.

09:58 Jake's campaign fizzled; he supported Delaney.

11:33 Highlight: Mike Hightower's impressive fundraising and leadership.

15:40 $300 billion now equals $1.4 billion then.

19:54 Introduced to influential political figures; bought boots.

22:05 Mike covered political events, became ABC morning host.

24:15 Florida decided George W. Bush's presidency victory.

30:55 Proposed IMAX led to government career opportunity.

32:14 Lou Lou was supported by business community.

35:48 Ended up at Bamboo Luau with Ron.

39:04 You represent and protect Blue Cross Blue Shield.

42:11 Mentors taught importance of personal investment, leadership.

47:28 Network crowd couldn't access studio for broadcast.

50:42 Leadership requires love, especially during extraordinary times.

53:51 Next episode moved due to Election Day.

55:15 Need more context to summarize effectively.

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

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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 of voting technology, changes to the process necessitated by two recent hurricanes and the steps the Supervisor of Elections takes to ensure the voice of the people is tallied, securely, accurately and fast.

#Election2024 #VoterTurnout #VotingMatters #ElectionSecurity #NonPartyAffiliated #VoteTech #HurricaneImpact #ElectionIntegrity #YourVoteCounts #SupervisorOfElections #VotingProcess #ElectionChanges #ElectionDiscussion

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

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 voter turnout in the current political climate.

What you need to know about Constitutional Amendments 1, 3, and 4, including the hot-button issues of abortion and marijuana legalization.

What happens to school board elections if Amendment 1 passes?

Don't miss this in-depth look at Florida's political landscape!

Stay informed, and make your vote count.

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

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 Center, Cindy Funkhouser, about her team, the organization's services and the challenges of engaging with the homeless and the city leaders who ultimately control the budgets.

Among the issues we discussed include:
The Mayor's 12 recommendations to address homelessness
Nearly half of the homeless in Jacksonville are now women? And data shows that nearly all have been assaulted since becoming homeless?
Affordable housing is often the biggest barrier to getting the homeless off the streets?
The history of the Sulzbacher Center and the other non-profit organizations who serve the homeless community?
Cindy joins the Mikes for a deep dive into this important and often overlooked issue.

Enjoy!

#JacksonvilleBudget #MayorDeegan #CityCouncil #AffordableHousing #HomelessnessCrisis #CityReserves #PoliticalDebate #CommunityProjects #SulzbacherCenter

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

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Enjoy!

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 responders and volunteers who put their lives on the line to aid in recovery efforts.

Mike Hightower, who is on the ground in storm-ravaged Western North Carolina, highlights the extraordinary coordination between linemen, local contractors, and out-of-state helpers, urging listeners to show appreciation and support for these unsung heroes.

Another lesson from today's episode is the importance of community and mutual aid in times of crisis. As Mike Hightower recounts the efforts of neighbors banding together to help each other out—sharing resources, offering shelter, and providing emotional support—we would love to remind you how crises often bring out the best in people.

Additionally, we talk about the necessity to prepare for such unexpected disasters and the role of organizations like the Red Cross in delivering timely relief.

Amid the devastation and chaos, we would love to celebrate success stories, like the newly inked multiyear deal between Florida Blue and Baptist Health, giving a silver lining in tough times.

Enjoy!

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

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, financial struggles, and the potential relocation of the school board building.

We'll also explore Jacksonville’s historical context, community responses, and the significant shifts in public service motivations.

Hope you enjoy this conversation about the future of education in our city and what it means for our community.

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

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 we explore Jacksonville's transformation in public transit, from the challenges of implementing light rail systems to the innovative steps being taken with the U2C project and autonomous vehicle technology.

We discuss the role of the JTA in providing diverse transportation options, the Mayport Ferry, the Emerald Trail and the ambitious Mobility Vision Plan 2050.

With insights into regional rail initiatives, federal grants, and the economic impact of new manufacturing facilities, this episode is packed with forward-thinking mobility solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Jacksonville's growing population.

So enjoy this conversation about the future of transit in Jacksonville and how strategic planning, bold leadership, and community collaboration are paving the way for a smarter, more connected city.

Enjoy!

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!

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 affordable housing and homelessness are pivotal battlegrounds, and the powerful role reserves play in this financial chess game.

Learn about the strategic moves being considered, including augmentations to the 5-year capital improvements plan and the monty negotiations surrounding public-private partnerships.

Don’t miss our critical examination of the political dynamics at play, the impact of increasing costs, and the city's revenue strategy through new housing developments.

With an upcoming crucial vote by the city council, this episode is packed with insights and behind-the-scenes discussions that will shape Jacksonville’s future.

Enjoy!

#JacksonvilleBudget #MayorDeegan #CityCouncil #AffordableHousing #HomelessnessCrisis #CityReserves #PoliticalDebate #CommunityProjects

Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

Connect with us on Social:

Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

Enjoy!