Florida Specifier Podcast

Episode 41: May / June Editorial Board

In the latest Editorial Board episode, the crew returns to the ever-evolving “Specifier Media Studio” — still light on decorations, but never short on opinions. Host Brett Cyphers is joined by co-host Ryan Matthews, along with Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn, for a candid conversation about Florida’s ongoing budget showdown, the special session drama unfolding in Tallahassee, and the environmental priorities still hanging in the balance. The team unpacks unresolved debates over Everglades funding, water quality grants, conservation easements, and the growing tension between the Legislature and the governor as budget negotiations continue. They also dive into the newest issue of Florida Specifier, highlighting stories on greenhouse gas policy, aquatic preserve regulations, Florida’s 404 permitting uncertainty, Tampa Bay’s long-term water supply challenges, and innovative storm forecasting efforts at the St. Johns River Water Management District. Along the way, the episode previews upcoming podcast interviews featuring former DEP Secretary Herschel Vinyard, author Cindy Littlejohn, Marianne Winkler, Justin Friedman, and Chuck Drake — each bringing a unique perspective on Florida’s environmental landscape. Finally, the Editorial Board looks ahead to one of the state’s premier environmental gatherings: the 40th Annual Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island. The team teases throwback moments, possible surprise guests, special recordings, and a few unexpected twists planned for the milestone event. Blending policy, storytelling, and plenty of Tallahassee humor, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and issues shaping Florida’s environmental future. To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com [https://floridaspecifier.com/] Have a project, story idea, or article you’d like featured in Florida Specifier? Reach out to Editor-in-Chief Patrick Gillespie at patrick@floridaspecifier.com [patrick@floridaspecifier.com] to discuss content submissions for upcoming editions. To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: brett@floridaspecifier.com [brett@floridaspecifier.com] ryan@floridaenet.com [ryan@floridaenet.com] jamie@floridaenet.com [jamie@floridaenet.com] A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast. This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios. A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

Episode 40: March / April Editorial Board

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, host Brett Cyphers is joined by Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn to reflect on the close of Florida’s legislative session and the uncertain road ahead as budget negotiations and potential special sessions continue. The group briefly recaps key policy developments, including stormwater treatment updates, nature-based solutions, and the phaseout of PFAS-containing firefighting foams, along with late-session debates that shaped the final outcomes. The conversation then turns to the latest issue of Florida Specifier, highlighting a range of stories covering regional water supply planning, environmental permitting challenges, species recovery, and evolving policy trends across the state. The team also shares insights into how these stories connect to real-world projects and decision-making across Florida’s environmental and water sectors. Listeners will also hear about upcoming podcast episodes, industry events, and opportunities to contribute to future editions of Florida Specifier. Blending insight and storytelling, this episode showcases the depth and breadth of the publication—your go-to source for environmental news, policy, and perspective in Florida. To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com [https://floridaspecifier.com/] To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: brett@floridaspecifier.com [brett@floridaspecifier.com] ryan@floridaenet.com [ryan@floridaenet.com] jamie@floridaenet.com [jamie@floridaenet.com] A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast. This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios. A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

Episode 39: Jan / Feb Editorial Board

In this episode of the Florida Specifier Podcast, hosts Ryan Matthews and Brett Cyphers are joined by fellow editorial board members Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest developments shaping Florida’s water and environmental policy.  The team sits down for a timely discussion recorded in the newly launched Specifier Media Studio in Tallahassee. As Florida’s legislative session ramps up, the board breaks down early-session dynamics, budget pressures, and the role relationships and personalities play in shaping policy outcomes. The conversation highlights key stories from the latest issue of Florida Specifier, including the governor’s recommended budget, water quality funding, regional water supply planning, conservation priorities, and evolving property tax proposals. The episode also explores federal issues, such as the latest Waters of the United States (WOTUS) definition, alongside local and regional environmental initiatives across Florida. The board wraps up with updates on new Florida Specifier partnerships, upcoming podcast episodes, Capitol events, and major water and environmental conferences on the horizon. To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com [https://floridaspecifier.com/] To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: brett@floridaspecifier.com [brett@floridaspecifier.com] ryan@floridaenet.com [ryan@floridaenet.com] jamie@floridaenet.com [jamie@floridaenet.com] A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast. This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios. A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

Episode 38: Nov / Dec Editorial Board

In this episode of the Florida Specifier podcast, host Ryan Matthews and co-host Brett Cyphers, along with Editorial Board members Patrick Gillespie and Jeff Littlejohn gather in the newly minted Specifier Media Studio to go through the major policy themes shaping Florida as Committee Week number four moves forward. The team unpacks the House’s property tax proposals, looming budget pressures, and the sprint toward the January 13 session start, all while keeping an eye on the political dynamics of an election year. They highlight standout stories from the latest Florida Specifier, including Florida’s expanding use of artificial reefs, a significant Endangered Species Act lawsuit in Charlotte County, DOT’s ambitious Tampa Bay “win-win-win” project, and new momentum behind seagrass restoration in the lower St. Johns River. Ryan and Brett also recap recent podcast interviews — from environmental law leaders Steve and Terry Lewis to an unprecedented panel of former DEP secretaries — and preview key water and environmental conferences coming in early 2026. With the December 10 article deadline approaching for the January/February edition, the Board encourages listeners to send events and story ideas to patrick@floridaspecifier.com [patrick@floridaspecifier.com] soon.  Tune in for insights, updates, and the Editorial Board’s signature blend of expertise and humor. To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com [https://floridaspecifier.com/] To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: brett@floridaspecifier.com [brett@floridaspecifier.com] ryan@floridaenet.com [ryan@floridaenet.com] jamie@floridaenet.com [jamie@floridaenet.com] A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast. This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios. A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.

Episode 37: Fireside Chat with Host Alexis Lambert

In this special episode, host Brett Cyphers welcomes listeners to a dynamic conversation with four former secretaries of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection — Herschel T. Vinyard Jr., Jon Steverson, Shawn Hamilton, and Ryan Matthews — moderated by current Secretary Alexis Lambert. Recorded at the Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island, the panel reflects on how Florida’s environmental policies have evolved — and where they’re headed next. The discussion begins with a core challenge: balancing timely permitting and environmental protection. Vinyard and Steverson highlight the importance of clear rules, accountability, and quick decisions — even when the answer is “no.” Vinyard and Secretary Lambert emphasize that permitting decisions work best when made locally, while Steverson underscores the role of water management districts as trusted partners. Matthews shares how legislation and BMAPs have shaped Florida’s springs protection efforts, despite legal and stakeholder challenges. Secretary Lambert reflects on the ongoing tension between growth and environmental stewardship, calling it a “perennial responsibility.” Hamilton outlines how Florida’s stormwater rule modernization — the first major update in over four decades — balances environmental needs with economic realities. Looking ahead, Secretary Lambert envisions integrating AI and automation into permitting to improve efficiency while keeping expert judgment at the center. Each former secretary closes by reflecting on their legacy, from digitizing permitting to empowering teams. All agree: people — both agency staff and Floridians — remain at the heart of DEP’s mission. If you were not able witness this incredible discussion in person this past summer, here’s your chance to hear directly from the current and former DEP secretaries as they share their experiences, lessons learned, and vision for the future of environmental stewardship in Florida. To read the Specifier online (where we hope you’ll subscribe if you haven’t already), go here: https://floridaspecifier.com [https://floridaspecifier.com/] To get the word out about how you’re making waves (pun intended) in Florida’s environmental world, make sure you reach out to Brett, Ryan, or Jamie at: brett@floridaspecifier.com [brett@floridaspecifier.com] ryan@floridaenet.com [ryan@floridaenet.com] jamie@floridaenet.com [jamie@floridaenet.com] A huge thank you goes out to Bagels and Biscuits for giving permission to use their music for the podcast. This episode is a production of The Florida Specifier. Audio production and editing is by Karl Sorne and Dave Barfield at Lonely Fox Studios. A special shout out goes to our very own Jamie Sheehan, Tracy Kistler and Meg Holley for keeping us organized and moving forward.