North Port Podcast Network

If you're a longtime resident of Nort Port, you've probably heard Karen Arlington's name. Since moving to the City decades ago, she's seen it grow and evolve, all while participating in many different committees and groups in the area. Learn from Karen about what North Port was like, the committees she served on and the familiar names she worked alongside, and more. 

On this episode, City Arborist Shawn Ruff discusses Native Plant Landscaping in the City. Many of you have likely heard of Florida-friendly landscaping. the University of Florida-IFAS Extension has plenty of resources to learn about what is Florida-friendly and how to plan for your yard.  Shawn also discusses how to plant these specific species alongside other non-native plants and how to help the...

In the next episode of the Natural Resources series, Urban Forester Ryan Pieper joins the pod to talk about tree protection. This topic is of utmost importance in North Port, given the rapid growth the city is experiencing. Listen in to learn more about how the City helps to protect and maintain our tree canopy and work with developers to build responsibly. 

Have you heard of a wildlife corridor? In this episode of the North Port Newsbreak, Environmental Specialist Joe Mansuetti talks about wildlife corridors and how they benefit both humans and animals. Listen in to find out how you can help!

🐢 As North Port grows, the need to protect our endangered, threatened or protected species grows. On this North Port newsbreak podcast, Environmental Specialist Aaron Zimmermann talks about how the City keeps track of these species, protects them and plans for the future. 

On this episode of Voices of North Port, Jane sits down with long-time City advocate and local journalist Elaine Allen-Emrich. Elaine has firmly planted herself in North Port, actively participating in the local Kiwanis Club and contributing to many local initiatives. Listen in to learn more about her!

Do you ever wonder about invasive species in North Port, whether it's a plant for animal? In this episode of North Port Newsbreak, Natural Resources Manager Stefan Kalev chats about invasive species management and what the City is doing to mitigate the issue. Listen in to learn more!

In this episode of Voices of North Port, we interview retired police officer and longtime resident Howard Henriksen. He shares his experience protecting the City in the earlier years and what it took to get a traffic light there. Brooklyn-born Henriksen tells it like it is, and is a great storyteller. We hope you enjoy.

In this week’s podcast, Michael McLellan shares about his work in business retention and expansion. Mike works with the Economic Development Division, and his mission is to make sure businesses want to stick around in North Port, and to help them grow and achieve more. Check it out for yourself by clicking below.

In this Voices of North Port episode, we chat with Deputy Police Chief Chris Morales. He spent nearly his entire life in North Port and has watched the City evolve and grow. Learn about his family's history, his law enforcement career and even his favorite restaurants from back in the day. Uncle Guido's anyone? We hope you enjoy the conversation.

In this Newsbreak podcast, Solid Waste Manager Frank Lama shares helpful recycling tips and information about the City of North Port's program.

This week’s Voices of North Port podcast features the original pilot of the iconic North Port hot air balloon, James Henry. What started as a promotional opportunity became a passion for flying over North Port and bringing others along. Listen in to learn about the history of the endeavor and Mr. Henry’s view from the skies. 

Voices of North Port features longtime residents and long-term employees who discuss the City's history and what it means to them. Our goal is to create a recorded oral history to preserve the voices that helped to shape the City. This episode's guest is Assistant City Manager Julie Bellia. Julie has worked for the City of North Port for nearly 45 years and has lived there since 1969. She knows th...

Synonymous with North Port, Joan Morgan has spent decades helping shape our City, whether as a City Commissioner or a dedicated resident. You may have heard of the Morgan Family Community Center? Listen in as Joan tells her story and shares her passion for advocating for North Port.  The views and opinions expressed in the "Voices of North Port" series do not necessarily reflect the views or posit...

North Port is turning 65 on June 18, and the City is throwing a birthday party. Listen in as Marketing & Engagement Manager Laura Ansel chats about what to expect at the party and why this is such a big deal for our City.

In this episode, Urban Forester Ryan Pieper discusses his new position, what his duties are and what his goals are for the future. He's passionate about protecting the environment while supporting sustainable and responsible development. Listen in to learn more! If you have comments or questions for Ryan, please email NaturalResources@NorthPortFL.gov.

On this episode of North Port Newsbreak, we sit down with City of North Port Emergency Manager Stacy Aloisio to discuss National Hurricane Preparedness Week and the upcoming hurricane season. Take a listen to know how to prepare for this year and what to expect.

The City of North Port recently announced the launch of the NP² (North Port Non-Profits United) program, or “NP squared,” an initiative to foster collaboration between municipal government and local non-profits to serve North Port residents better. NP²'s primary objective is to assist non-profits by providing support that will continue to enhance and expand their mission. Listen in to hear from So...

Do you know someone with an exceptional green thumb? Nominate them for the City's Greenest Citizen Award! We seek residents who go above and beyond to enhance and protect North Port's nature. The nominations are open until April 19, when a public vote begins. Links mentioned in the show: NorthPortFL.gov/Greenest - Submit nominations NorthPortFL.gov/Trees - Learn more about Florida-Friendly landsca...

The City of North Port is ramping up work on the Fiscal year 2025 budget. Listen in to this conversation with City Manager Jerome Fletcher to learn about how the City budget works and how it's looking for North Port. Additionally, they discuss how the public can get involved and make their voice heard. Get more information about budget input at NorthPortFL.gov/BudgetInput.

What is a Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) anyway? If you have a spare 12.5 minutes, take a listen to our latest podcast featuring Development Services Coordinator Alaina Ray discussing the ULDC update and why it's so important. In addition, she discusses the history of North Port, what this explosive growth means for the City and more. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/ULDCUpdate.

Join Communications Manager Jason Bartolone as he talks about flood maps with Stormwater Manager Elizabeth Wong. The topics include FEMA's new Flood Insurance Risk Maps and future meetings to attend and learn more.

Tune in as Marketing & Engagement Manager Laura Ansel chats with our newest division manager, Stefan Kalev, of the Natural Resources Division, to hear about their upcoming projects and events.

This week's Deskside Chats features Environmental Planner III Liz Blessing. A London, England native, Liz has a passion for the outdoors and the environment, evident in her hobbies and education. Listen in to learn more about her journey to Florida and the expertise she brings to the job. Enjoy!

In this week's episode, Madison chats with Deputy Emergency Manager Mike Nevarez. While working for government agencies, Mike made it through Hurricane Irma, COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian, working in either procurement or emergency management. He brings much knowledge to his current position, and we're glad to have him. Outside of work, Mike loves getting outside and biking or exploring. We hope you...