Tampa Home Talk Radio

Painting is the most affordable way to transform a home—if you do it right. On this episode of Tampa Home Talk , Katrina Madewell sits down with Brian Santos, a.k.a. The Wall Wizard (author, HGTV alum, and technical director at Fresh Coat Painters), to unpack the paint science, prep, and pro tricks that actually matter in Florida's climate. We cover why prep beats product , when DIY is fine (and w...

Florida insurance has been a rollercoaster. Today we dig into what actually changed for 2025—and where homeowners and investors can still save—without getting burned by the fine print. In this episode with Adam Tally (Tally Insurance): Which carriers are back and why some premiums have flattened or dipped Reinsurance 101 (and why Bermuda comes up) ACV roof schedules : how they really pay out Citiz...

On this episode of Tampa Home Talk , host Katrina Madewell welcomes back Denise Oatley Hall—also known as the Game Changer—for a fascinating and entertaining conversation about hypnosis, comedy, and transformation. From her early years as a professional clown and award-winning performer to becoming a board-certified hypnotist, Denise shares how she helps people overcome fears, kick habits like smo...

Are Florida homeowners about to stop paying property taxes? In this powerful episode of Tampa Home Talk , host Katrina Madewell is joined by Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano and Tim Coet for a no-holds-barred conversation on Governor Ron DeSantis' proposal to eliminate property taxes . They break down: What eliminating property taxes would really mean for local services (like police, fire, a...

Fourteen years ago, Tampa Home Talk launched to help listeners protect credit, live within their means, build wealth, and make smarter real-estate moves. Today, we're pulling back the curtain on a different kind of venue—stadiums and arenas—and the business engine that powers them. Katrina sits down with Tampa local and longtime sports operator Ken Young , who went from selling hot dogs as a teen...

What happens when a Tampa firefighter trades his hose for a pen? Join Tampa Home Talk host Katrina Madewell in this captivating episode as she sits down with Thad Diaz —a 25-year veteran firefighter turned mystery author—for a riveting conversation about creativity, self-publishing, and Tampa's colorful (and shady) history. Thad opens up about his 10-year journey to publishing his first book, the...

In this special Community Spotlight episode, we're honored to welcome Captain Jody Louis, U.S. Army Recruiting Company Commander for Tampa. Whether you're a curious high school student, a parent exploring options for your child, or someone considering a second career, this episode is for YOU. 💥 From truth bombs about boot camp, ASVAB scores, and tattoos, to little-known benefits like free college...

Florida homeowners and drivers—there's finally some good news! In this episode of Tampa Home Talk , host Katrina Madewell is joined by Dave Casselwitz of Most Insurance to unpack why insurance rates are actually dropping in 2025 and what that means for your wallet. We cover everything: Why Progressive and other carriers are lowering auto premiums What you need to know before adding teen drivers (a...

In this episode Robert Perez of Family Pest Services discusses common termite issues that hold home sellers up from selling their homes, and what to look for BEFORE you even go on the market.

In this sizzling episode of Tampa Home Talk , Katrina Madewell welcomes retired Tampa firefighter, author, and historian Bill Wade , Director of the Tampa Firefighters Museum .  Together, they dive into: Tampa's fire service history and the story behind Fire Station No. 1 (est. 1911) Real stories from a 30+ year firefighting career How the Tampa Firefighters Museum was saved and preserved The evol...

In this inspiring episode of Tampa Home Talk , Katrina Madewell sits down with Karen Mertes , founder of Fulfill Your Destiny , a nonprofit that empowers entrepreneurs recovering from life-altering tragedy. Karen shares her personal story of trauma and transformation—how a sudden event changed everything and led her to create a movement that offers second chances. You'll hear powerful stories of r...

Is your Airbnb not getting the bookings you expected? Your pricing might be right, your photos might be beautiful — but if your cleanliness is off, you're leaving money on the table. In this episode of Tampa Home Talk , Katrina Madewell dives into the critical connection between Airbnb cleanliness and profitability. We'll cover: ✅ How cleanliness affects your ratings, reviews, and repeat guests...

In Episode 540 of Tampa Home Talk, Katrina Madewell is joined by Sarah Crickey Neher from The Mortgage Firm to uncover some of the  biggest opportunities for Florida homebuyers right now . Learn how to unlock up to 5% in down payment assistance through Florida's Hometown Heroes Program , why USDA loans may be easier to qualify for than you think (especially with a simple energy audit), and what fi...

After a six-month hiatus, Tampa Home Talk is officially back—and in this powerful return, Katrina Madewell opens up about the life-changing events that paused the show, including the passing of her husband just 1 day after her 50th birthday. This episode isn't just about grief and resilience—it's packed with value. Katrina breaks down everything you need to know about the current Tampa Bay real es...

What really happens after the sirens fade and the headlines disappear? In this gripping episode of Tampa Home Talk , we're joined by Ryan Anthony Okrasinski, owner of Without a Trace LLC and AllHazardResponse.org , to uncover the hidden world of crime scene cleanup. From biohazards to hoarding, Ryan shares shocking real-life experiences, safety protocols, and how his team restores peace and cleanl...

Feeling sore, stressed, or just stuck in your health journey? Join us on this week's episode of Tampa Home Talk as we explore the powerful benefits of cryotherapy with Jessie Claxton, owner of Cryx Cryotherapy. Discover how this cutting-edge cold therapy can reduce inflammation, boost recovery, improve sleep, and even sharpen your focus. Plus, Danielle Evans and Jennie Restrepo join the conversati...

Join us for a dynamic episode of Tampa Home Talk as we dive into a fresh update on the Hometown Heroes program and what it means for Florida homebuyers. Our special guest, Sarah Crickey, breaks down current interest rates, shares insider tips on rebuilding your credit from the ground up, and lays out a practical roadmap for smart financial planning—whether you're buying your first home or planning...

Say goodbye to soggy patios and sun-scorched afternoons! On this week's episode of Tampa Home Talk , we're joined by Patrick McAlpin from Tropicana Screen & Glass Inc. to dive into how you can transform your lanai, patio, or pool area into a functional, stylish outdoor oasis—rain or shine. Whether you're dreaming of a screened enclosure, glass room, or weather-resistant upgrade, we've got the expe...

Think your will is enough? Think again. On this episode of Tampa Home Talk , attorney Anthony Messina joins us to uncover the surprising truth about wills and probate—and why many families still end up in court. Learn the 5 essential steps to keep your heirs out of probate, protect your assets, and ensure a smooth transfer of wealth. We'll also discuss recent NAR changes and how they could affect...

What's really different about today's foreclosure landscape vs. 2008? Why might it be smarter to sell now instead of waiting? This week on Tampa Home Talk , attorney Mike Wasylik joins us to unpack the changing foreclosure climate, how VA and FHA loans compare to conventional options—especially when financial troubles hit—and new relief programs for veteran homeowners. We'll also dive into a risin...

Think your property is safe? Think again. This week on Tampa Home Talk , we're diving into one of the fastest-growing threats to homeowners— deed fraud and seller impersonation scams . Guest expert Jennie Restrepo joins us to break down how fraudsters are stealing homes, what red flags to watch for, and how to protect your title. Whether you're a homeowner, investor, or real estate pro, this episo...

Thinking about selling your home or just want to boost its value? Join us on Tampa Home Talk with special guest Danielle Evans as we uncover the best improvements homeowners can make to increase property value and wow future buyers. From simple weekend projects to smart renovations that deliver big returns, this episode is packed with tips you can use today! Whether you're preparing to list or pla...

Think of your home's listing like a dating profile — you never get a second chance to make a first impression! In this episode of Tampa Home Talk , we're revealing 8 powerful secrets every home seller needs to know to captivate buyers from the moment they pull up. From curb appeal to the Airbnb effect, we'll walk you through exactly how to set the stage for love at first sight — and top-dollar off...