In this episode of Hometown Jax, host Jason Kindler sits down with Nicole Kalil and Karen Roy, the inspiring leaders behind Fostering Hope, a local organization transforming how Jacksonville supports foster and adoptive families. Hometown Jax spotlights the everyday heroes making a difference in our community, sharing their journeys, challenges, and impact through meaningful conversations that inspire action.

Nicole and Karen reveal how Fostering Hope grew from informal meetings at Panera to a comprehensive support system serving hundreds of families. They discuss the critical need for community involvement in foster care, explain how one in every two foster families drops out within a year without proper support, and share powerful stories of transformation. The conversation highlights their freezer meal ministry, resource center, respite care program, and upcoming Replanted conference, while emphasizing their core message: "Everyone can do something" to help vulnerable children, whether or not you're called to foster or adopt.

In this episode of Hometown Jax, we sit down with Emilee Burchette, a dedicated healthcare leader who has spent her career running nursing homes and rehabilitation centers with a heart for compassionate care. Emilee shares her journey into the healthcare industry, from unexpectedly stepping into the field to becoming an experienced administrator overseeing the well-being of countless residents. She dives into the challenges of managing a facility, navigating strict regulations, and ensuring that every patient receives the highest quality of care while balancing the needs of families and staff.

Whether you’re interested in healthcare leadership, elder care, or simply want to hear an inspiring story of dedication and resilience, this episode has something for you. Emilee opens up about the emotional realities of working in a nursing home, the lessons she’s learned from her residents, and how she’s making a difference in the Jacksonville community. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of senior care, leadership, and the power of compassion in healthcare!

Hometown Jax is all about spotlighting Jacksonville’s incredible business owners, innovators, and leaders who are making a difference in the community. Hosted by Aaron Bacus and Jason Kindler, this podcast dives into the stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and impact that define the local business scene. Whether you're looking for inspiration, business insights, or a deeper connection to the Jacksonville area, Hometown Jax brings you the conversations that matter.

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Daniel Bean, CEO of K9s for Warriors, an organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and pairing them with veterans suffering from PTSD. Daniel shares the inspiring journey of how K9s for Warriors started, the life-changing impact of service dogs on veterans, and the organization's efforts to expand its reach nationwide. From heartwarming success stories to the science behind why service dogs are so effective, this episode sheds light on a mission that is saving lives—both human and canine. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!

Hometown Jax brings you the inspiring stories of Jacksonville’s entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders. Hosted by Jason Kindler and Aaron Bacus, this podcast dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of local business owners who are shaping the city's future. Whether you’re a business enthusiast, a Jacksonville native, or just looking for motivation, Hometown Jax is your go-to source for real stories of perseverance and success.

In this episode, Jason sits down with Jena Dennis, a sixth-generation Jacksonville native and the powerhouse behind multiple thriving businesses. From running a real estate brokerage to managing estate sales, auto brokerage, and even a federal firearms dealership, Jena does it all. But her passion for revitalizing the historic town of Hastings is what truly sets her apart. She shares her journey of transforming nearly half the town, the lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur, and how she balances business and family. If you want to hear an incredible story of vision, resilience, and community impact, this episode is a must-watch!

In this episode of Hometown Jax, host Aaron Bacus sits down with Tony Capozzi, a West Point graduate, veteran, and reservist with an incredible journey through military service. Tony shares his story, from growing up around baseball to becoming a leader in the U.S. Army, serving in combat zones, and even parachuting into Normandy for a historical reenactment. He breaks down what it takes to lead troops, the difference between officers and enlisted soldiers, and what life is really like in a forward operating base.

Tony also dives into his deployment experiences, the critical role of trust in combat, and how he helped an Afghan interpreter escape to America. Whether you're fascinated by military strategy, leadership, or just want to hear an inspiring story, this episode offers a firsthand look into the challenges and camaraderie of military life. Tune in to hear Tony’s powerful insights, experiences, and reflections on service and sacrifice!

Join host Aaron Bacus as he sits down with Captain Leon Dana, one of Jacksonville's most experienced fishing guides and owner of Palm Valley Charters. From his early days fishing retention ponds at age six to his transition from running a successful family limousine business to becoming a full-time fishing guide, Captain Dana shares how he developed his extraordinary understanding of Palm Valley's waterways. He reveals his unique approach to finding hidden fishing spots using Google Earth, explains how fish behave like social groups of different ages, and discusses how creating lasting memories for his clients is just as important as catching fish.

Hometown Jax brings you authentic conversations with Jacksonville's everyday workforce, sharing their journeys, challenges, and contributions to the local community. Host Aaron Bacus sits down with guests from various industries to explore their stories and inspire listeners with real-world experiences from the people who make Jacksonville work.

Join host Aaron Bacus as he sits down with Chris Frison, owner of All Star Barbershop in Jacksonville, Florida. In this engaging conversation, Chris shares his journey from aspiring commercial artist to successful barber and business owner, spanning over two decades of service to the Jacksonville community. From his first haircut at age 12 to managing a thriving barbershop with his brother, Chris reveals how he's built lasting relationships with clients who have become like family. He discusses everything from the challenges of starting his own business to the evolving trends in men's grooming, while sharing heartwarming stories about serving multiple generations of customers and his brother's special connection with autistic children.

Hometown Jax is a podcast that celebrates the everyday workforce of Jacksonville, Florida. Each episode features in-depth conversations with local business owners and professionals who share their personal journeys, challenges, and contributions to the community. Host Aaron Bacus brings out authentic stories that inspire and showcase the diverse fabric of Jacksonville's business landscape. From entrepreneurs to craftspeople, each episode offers unique insights into what it takes to build and maintain a successful business while making a difference in the local community.

In this episode of Hometown Jax, we sit down with Laura Zorn, the visionary entrepreneur behind Bravoz Entertainment Center, Jacksonville’s ultimate family fun destination. Laura shares her journey from the corporate world to building a 40,000-square-foot entertainment hub featuring trampoline arenas, laser tag, bowling, and more. She opens up about the challenges of running a large-scale business, the importance of creating unforgettable experiences for families, and how Bravoz continues to grow and innovate in a competitive industry.

Hometown Jax is all about celebrating the entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders who make Jacksonville thrive. Hosted by Aaron Bacus and Jason Kindler, the podcast dives deep into the journeys, challenges, and successes of those shaping Northeast Florida. Whether you're looking for inspiration, business insights, or just love hearing great local stories, Hometown Jax brings you closer to the people driving the future of the First Coast. Tune in and get inspired!