• Overcoming Racial Challenges: How Sheriff Nathaniel Glover Transformed His Life
    Aug 18 2025

    In this captivating episode our guest, Nathaniel Glover, shares his powerful and inspirational story.

    From a traumatic encounter with racism to becoming a sheriff, Nathaniel's journey is filled with resilience, forgiveness, and the pursuit of justice.

    Tune in as he discusses his experiences with the criminal justice system, his path to law enforcement, and the pivotal moments that shaped his life.

    Join us as we delve into topics of racial inequality, personal growth, and the power of forgiveness.

    Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation that will leave you inspired to confront challenges head-on.

    Don't miss out on this incredible episode brought to you by the Jacksonville Historical Society.

    00:02:08 From arrest to sheriff, writing my life.
    00:07:11 Jacksonville: racist city, fortunate parents, sit-in attack.
    00:17:23 Moving moment of forgiveness and regret.
    00:19:02 Childhood ambition to be detective despite challenges. Arrested for alleged theft at cafeteria job.
    00:22:11 Arrested for napkins, endured jail with criminals.
    00:26:02 Supervisor testified, three white people helped me.
    00:29:45 College graduate defies odds, becomes police officer.
    00:35:53 More to come on great man's story.

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    36 mins
  • Developing and reimagining downtown Jacksonville with Gateway Jax CEO Bryan Moll
    Aug 11 2025

    This week Mikes on Mic sits down with Bryan Moll, the CEO of Gateway Jax. Brian has been at the forefront of transforming downtown Jacksonville into a thriving hub of culture, business, and community. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in revitalizing the area, making it a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and play.

    In this conversation, Brian shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities that come with urban development. He'll talk about the strategies being implemented to create a sustainable and inclusive downtown, and how these efforts are reshaping the city's future. Stay tuned for an inspiring discussion this week on Mikes on Mic.

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    33 mins
  • Jacksonville’s Parks Under Pressure: Safeguarding Natural Beauty and Historic Sites
    Aug 4 2025

    Do you love Jacksonville’s parks or wonder how our local green spaces survive under constant pressure from funding cuts and development?

    Today we sit down with acclaimed Times Union columnist and author Mark Woods for a revealing conversation about the past, present, and future of our treasured parks.

    Together, they discuss the pivotal roles played by influential figures like Congressman Charlie Bennett and passionate advocates Barbara Goodman and Mark Middlebrook.

    Mark shares unique insights from his incredible journey exploring America’s National Parks, offering listeners a rare glimpse behind the scenes of efforts to protect these invaluable public spaces for future generations.

    You’ll discover how citizen engagement has shaped Jacksonville’s park system and learn exactly what's needed to safeguard our community's natural heritage.

    Whether you're passionate about nature, fascinated by local politics, or inspired by community activism, this episode will inform, entertain, and empower you to take action.

    Tune in, get inspired, and join the movement to keep Jacksonville’s parks thriving!

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    28 mins
  • TA launches the Bay St. Innovation Corridor service
    Jul 28 2025

    It's said that Jacksonville is a "City on the Move! Well there's no better example of that than JTA's U2C project, a three-phase program revolutionizing public transportation in Jacksonville.

    Launched on June 30th, the first phase of the project features autonomous shuttles running on Bay St. in downtown Jacksonville between the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center and the sports and entertainment district near the stadium. JTA's CEO, Nat Ford again joins the Mikes to discuss the multi-phased program as well as their leadership in the development of the Emerald Trail.

    Don't miss this lively and informative conversation on this week's Mike on Mic.

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    32 mins
  • Unpacking the city's $2 Billion proposed 2025-26 annual budget
    Jul 21 2025

    Welcome to Mikes On Mic — the podcast where Jacksonville talks politics, policy, and the people shaping our city.

    This week, we’re celebrating our 2nd anniversary with a deep dive into Mayor Donna Deegan’s proposed $2 billion city budget for 2025-26. Joining us is Mike Mendenhall, Associate Editor of JAXToday, to unpack where the money’s going — and what it means for you.

    We’re talking about the Mayor’s $10 million plan to address homelessness, ongoing efforts to remove septic tanks, and a $100 million-plus boost for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.Stick with us — it’s a budget breakdown you don’t want to miss.

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    31 mins
  • Inside Jacksonville’s City Council: Mike Gay on Campaign Challenges, Party Divides & Stadium Deal
    Jul 14 2025

    Welcome to another exciting episode of Mikes on Mic.

    This week, Councilman Mike Gay.

    We discuss how he overcame strong opposition and a flood of attack ads to win his campaign. His strong values guided him through a tough race.

    Join the Mikes as they examine Gay’s lone 'no' vote on Jacksonville's massive $1.4 billion stadium deal.

    They explore his practical approach to fiscal conservatism and the changes within the city’s Republican Party. Gay also sheds light on local infrastructure projects and building connections across the political spectrum.

    Whether you’re a political fan or just curious about Jacksonville’s future, this conversation is full of honesty, insight, and a good dose of Mikes.

    Dive in and enjoy!

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    25 mins
  • Dr. Rahman Johnson on Redistricting, Race & Jacksonville’s Evolving Politics
    Jul 7 2025

    This week, we chat with our dear friend, Dr. Rahman Johnson.

    He’s a City Councilman, award-winning broadcaster, educator, and true Renaissance man.

    Dr. Johnson shares his journey from Jacksonville neighborhoods to becoming the first person of color and the first Democrat to represent District 14 since consolidation.

    He discusses running for office during a messy redistricting and navigating political divides at City Hall. His background in media, education, and the railroad gives him a unique view on leadership.

    The talk gets personal, too. Dr. Johnson reflects on his Jacksonville roots, the impact of local legends like Ben Frazier, and his amazing mom. He emphasizes how community and collaboration matter more than party lines.

    Whether you’re into politics, love underdog stories, or want real talk about making a difference, this episode has something for you.

    Hit play and join the conversation.

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    28 mins
  • Inside Jacksonville: Mayor’s Leadership, Stadium Deal, and City Council Power Plays
    Jun 30 2025

    Last week, we spoke with Mayor Donna Deegan. Today, we’ll break down that meeting. We’ll reflect on her leadership style, coalition building, and big wins. These include the stadium contract talks and impressive downtown growth.

    We’ll also discuss the often dynamic—and sometimes dramatic—relationship between the Mayor and the Republican-led city council. A new council president is ready to take charge.

    Plus, we’ll cover hot topics from a UNF poll. It shows high approval for the Mayor but growing dissatisfaction with the council. We’ll also touch on eyebrow-raising fundraising for council inauguration parties. Lastly, we’ll update you on local immigration policy debates.

    And for our regular listeners, we have exciting news. As we celebrate episode 101, the show is ready for a new chapter. Stay tuned until the end!

    Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic.com

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mikes-on-mic/id1697258731

    Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/1osbkLvqreSJPXmfaubY1M?si=yVwAAnw1TmSSzZnZ3vM8sA

    Connect with us on Social:

    Youtube Channel: http://youtube.com/@mikesonmic

    Facebook Page link: http://facebook.com/mikesonmic

    Enjoy!

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    20 mins