Between The Beaches Podcast

Florida has experienced some extraordinary flooding events throughout its history. Some have been associated with hurricanes, others with prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, and still others with combinations of weather conditions that overwhelm even well-designed drainage systems. Two such events, separated by nearly eighty years, provide an especially interesting comparison. At first glance, these events might seem to have very little in common. But, when we look beyond the differences in technology and population, we find some remarkable similarities. Tune in for a thorough examination of the parallels and distinctions as we resume our regular schedule this week.

We had a lot of interference last week and missed our regularly scheduled podcast installment so we're offering up a bonus episode this week and we'll come back with all new content next week to get back on our regular bimonthly schedule.  Technically, this is a rebroadcast but it's as timely now as it was when it first aired roughly 5 years ago.  In this episode, we take a really deep dive into history to reveal a lot of facts that most folks overlook or ignore when it comes to Halloween. The origins of this celebration were anything but evil or satanic in their origins as we seek to explain in this conversation. Honestly, it's a pretty thorough explanation for some amateur historians.  Our hope is that you'll leave this episode with a few laughs, a broader view of the world, and some knowledge to share with your family and friends.

From the view atop a saddle to the underside of a hoof, there's not much about a horse that Jerald Lowe hasn't seen or learned through decades of experience as a farrier and cowman. The wisdom he's accumulated is hard to rival and in so many ways is reminiscent of the Dorrance brothers and Ray Hunt. It's simple and subtle yet profound knowledge gained by a whole lot of observation and personal experience. And for as many years as he's spent helping keep horses sound, he's spent an equal amount of time helping family, friends, and clients by sharing what he's learned. Jerald doesn't force anything on you, but rather presents ideas for those open to receive them. In this episode, we look back on Jerald's upbringing and family story, his time as a farrier, cow hunting around the St. John's River, Christmas, and other parts of east central Florida, good cow dogs, and much more. Listen in for some good old fashioned cracker humor, wisdom, and storytelling!

Equal parts general Florida history and family drama, Cow Creek Chronicles conveys the story of our state, our ranching heritage, and one family's rise to prominence and ensuing downfall. Gregory Enns does a masterful job of weaving together the two subjects into one story that is candid and engages all of the reader's emotions. Listen for the links to purchase at the end of the episode and grab a copy today. You'll finish it with a much deeper appreciation for Florida's story.

We dug deep into the archives this week for some deep insight into the life of a day working cowboy from Mr. BJ Johnson. There's plenty of good lessons and laughs in this conversation that made it worth sharing once again. Hope y'all enjoy!

Having access to personal, first person historical accounts is one of the most invaluable tools a society can have when it comes to understanding current times as well as planning for future generations. Thanks to Mr. Charles William Flint of Lee County, Florida, we have an exceptional collection of history to reflect upon through his memories that are collected in his book, "Barefoot To Boots." In this episode, we highlight some of his earliest memories and also enjoy some of tales of the hunt throughout southwest Florida. It's a glimpse into simpler times here in the Sunshine State that you don't want to miss.

Florida was the last man standing so to speak when it came to mandatory fencing of cattle and when the law took effect in 1949 it marked the end of the open range grazing while ushering in a myriad of changes for Florida cowmen. In this episode of the podcast, we begin with a look back at what it was like to spend a week driving cattle across the state in the mid 1930's based on a firsthand account documented by Mr. Jesse Durrance. After that, we roll into the second half of the show and share some excerpts from the book Florida Cowman that touch on the range wars and other factors leading up to the enactment of Florida's Fence Law. We hope you enjoy this interesting firsthand cattle drive account and share it with folks who are unaware of our rich ranching legacy.

There's no shortage of waterways in Florida's interior, and each of them reflect the particular region of the state in which they flow. There are however certain rivers that hold a larger significance for our state both environmentally and culturally. Originating in South Georgia and snaking its way through north Florida en route to the Gulf, the Suwannee River may be the most prominent of them all. She's the source of our state song and she's been documented and celebrated in written word and art of all types as well. Join us this week as we wander back to a much earlier time along her waters and get a glimpse into old Florida and the crackers living along her 245 mile course.

As our name suggests, the primary focus on this podcast is the overlooked interior of Florida and all its intricacies, but we also have a commitment to sharing Florida history in general so that folks can better understand our state's story. Sometimes, sharing Florida's story takes us to the beaches and the endless blue that lies beyond. Such is the case this week as we revisit some of the Spanish influence that shaped our cultural identity here in the Sunshine State. With the arrival of summer and hurricane season, this seemed to be the perfect time to revisit this fascinating tale of destruction, piracy, and ongoing salvage efforts.

This episode is a throwback to our very first season as a tribute to Mr. Matt Arrieta who recently passed. Matt was a cowboy's cowboy and always rode for the brand. We hope you'll enjoy this blast from the past and a glimpse into the life of a working cowboy. Rest easy Matt, and we hope you're finding plenty of good horses to ride.