Advocacy, Access, & the Boating Industry

Can We Protect the Environment Without Killing Innovation?

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Jeff Wasil to discuss how EPA regulation of styrene under TSCA could impact recreational boatbuilding and why real-world manufacturing controls matter in chemical risk assessments. They also examine the challenges of evolving PFAS regulations, including state reporting requirements that create compliance burdens for marine manufacturers and their supply chains. Jeff explains why replacing PFAS-containing materials is often more complex than it seems and how policymakers can better balance environmental goals with manufacturing realities. The episode concludes with a discussion on practical decarbonization strategies, from alternative fuels to emerging propulsion technologies, and what they mean for the future of boating. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Louis Sola and Building Maritime America

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Louis Sola, former Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, to discuss his journey from the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and yacht sales to leading a major dealership in Panama and serving at the center of U.S. maritime regulation. Louis explains the role of the Federal Maritime Commission, shares his experience overseeing the cruise industry during COVID-19, and details the challenges of repatriating Americans, coordinating port operations, and protecting consumers through refund and compliance policies. The conversation explores the broader economic impact of boating, highlighting how yacht sales support jobs, marinas, service providers, and working waterfronts throughout local communities. Louis also outlines his vision for the future of maritime policy, advocating for maritime prosperity zones, alternative marine fuels, stronger ship repair capabilities, and renewed American shipbuilding. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Inside The Federal Maritime Commission With Chair Laura DiBella

Federal Maritime Commission Chair Laura DiBella joins host Kristina Hebert for a timely conversation on the forces shaping U.S. ocean shipping, supply chains, and maritime policy. Filmed at the Federal Maritime Commission headquarters, the episode explores DiBella’s journey from Florida real estate and economic development to port leadership and national maritime regulation, including her frontline experience navigating the supply chain crisis during COVID-19. The discussion dives into the Maritime Action Plan, maritime opportunity zones, FMC regulatory authority, and why cargo movement is central to rebuilding American maritime strength. From working waterfronts and U.S.-flag vessels to Panama Canal pressures and emerging security risks, this episode offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the maritime industry today. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Strengthening the Future of Boat Shows

Miami’s return to Collins Avenue and Indian Creek showed why location and planning shape the entire boat show experience.  Filmed in Washington, D.C., during the American Boating Congress, Kristina Hebert is joined by Grant Henderson, president of the International Yacht Brokers Association and sales broker at Burgess Yachts, along with Larry Berryman, VP of Southern Shows for Informa Markets, to discuss what worked, what still needs improvement, and how transportation, dock design, and site access affect attendees.  The conversation also explores marine industry advocacy, infrastructure needs, crew visa updates, and the economic impact boat shows have on Florida’s boating industry.  Subscribe, share with a boating friend, leave a comment, and review the show to help more people discover the conversation. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Advocacy, Access, & the Boating Industry

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Clay Crabtree, Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs at the National Marine Manufacturers Association, from the American Boating Congress in Washington, DC, to discuss the policies shaping the future of recreational boating.  From the Sportfish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund to water access, trade policy, tariffs, and fuel regulations, Kristina and Clay break down the issues impacting boating businesses, conservation, and access nationwide. They also explore how advocacy and industry relationships continue to drive real results in Washington.  Listen now, subscribe, like, and leave a comment or review to help more boating professionals and enthusiasts join the conversation. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]