The Invasive Species Poster Child

Explore Florida's fascinating world of Black Bears with us. Not everyone realizes that Florida is home to this beautiful species, and some know all too well when they come (just about) knocking on their own front door. Join us as we speak with Don Hardeman Jr., a bear biologist and all around incredible scientist out there doing fantastic work in the field. And, Patty, our friend who lives in an area that a bear family frequented. Learn how her community adapted, the conflicting interests at play, and take a moment to look around your own neighborhood and consider how you can be a better neighbor to your non human animal counterparts.

Invasive Species cost Floridians over $500 million a year. Jade Salamone, a conservation education curator at the Santa Fe Zoo, tells the story of the Cuban Tree Frog - a frog with a distinct call and voracious appetite for anything smaller than them who may live closer than you think.

Donna Kalil is the leader of the Everglades Avenger Team. She has been catching Burmese Pythons for over 8 years and spends many nights combing the levees for this invasive species doing her part to restore a semblance of balance in the ecosystem there. We dive into how this species got here and how it became the poster child for invasive species in Florida.

Hannah Brown and Stephenie Livingston are both native Floridians and climate/science journalists. Hannah co-founded The Marjorie, ‘Florida's first and only reporting outlet dedicated to the critical intersection of social justice and the environment.’ Both talk about their experiences growing up in rural and North Florida and how that has shaped them in their current work.

Reverend Houston Cypress, an artist, leader, filmmaker, speaker and member of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, kicks off the conversation of climate change at his home in the Everglades. They note the physical changes over generations and what we can do to champion the state’s resources and Native American rights. Learn more Twitter @evergladeslove https://www.lovetheeverglades.org Reverend Houston Cypress Twitter @OtterCypress

Welcome to Unchecked! We're Alyson and Bri. At Unchecked, embracing inclusivity is our compass. That's why we're taking you on a journey to explore climate change's far-reaching impact through Florida's many quirks and unheard voices. Join us as we dive into the  research, policies, and community initiatives aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change. We'll bring you thoughtful conversations and fresh perspectives from diverse voices across the state. From the Everglades to the Panhandle, we’ll talk everything from rising sea levels and extreme weather events to the economic and social implications of a changing climate,exploring the issues that matter most to our communities. Listen in and become part of the conversation today!