Mikes on Mic - Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower

Latest Episodes:

Florida Politics: Trump's Appointments, Casey DeSantis Speculation, and Nate Monroe's Insights Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to a new episode of Mikes On Mic!

Today we're diving into the tangled web of Florida politics with special guest, Nate Monroe, a seasoned columnist from USA Today's network.

Join us as we dissect the rumored reconciliation between Trump and DeSantis, question the political stratagems behind key appointments, and explore the dynamic political landscape of the Sunshine State.

Nate gives us a great view on the role of loyalty in Trump's leadership style, the pitfalls of lobbyist-to-government transitions, and the unique "Floridian" character that shapes national politics.

Plus, you'll find out who is next in the show, and discuss the implications of recent constitutional amendments.

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!

A free publication focusing on issues important to our senior community Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

On this week's episode of Mikes on Mic, our guest is Mischelle Grant, publisher of First Coast Senior Living, a monthly magazine featuring stories and highlighting services important to our seniors.
While Mikes on Mic is the cover story for their December issue, we were interested in finding out about the magazine along with the incredible background story leading Ms. Grant to begin this venture.

Jacksonville's Year in Review: Hopes and Surprises for 2025 Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

Reflecting on 2024 & Looking Ahead to 2025
In this special episode of Mikes on Mic, Mike Miller, Mike Hightower, and Mike Tolbert take a look back at the highs, lows, and surprises of 2024 while sharing their hopes for the year ahead.
From the fallout of the Jacksonville Electric Authority sale to memorable guest appearances that lit up the show, the Mikes go all out.
Whether you’re a local or just love thoughtful conversations, this episode is packed with reflection, analysis, and a few laughs along the way.
Enjoy!

Susie Wiles Revisited Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Last April, Mikes on Mic interviewed Politico magazine's reporter Michael Kruse about his in-depth and comprehensive profile of Jacksonville political operative Susie Wiles on her extensive political experience and her role as co-chair of Donald Trump's campaign.
Now the election is over and Susie has been appointed as the incoming president's Chief of Staff.
We invited Michael Kruse back this week to discuss her role in the campaign and how well Kruse feels she'll do in this new capacity.
Enjoy this week's show and from all of us at Mikes On Mic, we hope you and your families have a safe and joyful Thanksgiving holiday!
Tune in to the show at MikesOnMic.com or via your favorite Podcasting Platform.

Bridging Divides: Faith, Politics, and Community Insights with Rabbi Glasser Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

In today's special episode we sit down with the inspiring Rabbi Maya Glasser to explore the deep ties between community, faith, and personal growth in challenging times.
From the Jewish principle of tikkun olam (Repairing the World) to living in the present, Rabbi Glasser shares profound wisdom on navigating loss, fostering healthy disagreements, and the role of community in Judaism—especially during the COVID era.
We also dive into U.S.-Israel relations, faith's impact on personal resilience, and the importance of staying connected.
Join us for thought-provoking discussions, a touch of humor, and the bond of shared purpose.
Let’s dive in!

Unpacking Florida's Election: Key Winners, Losers, and Emerging Dynamics Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic, your Jacksonville podcast for in-depth political discussions and insights.

Today we dive into the post-election landscape with UNF Political Science professor, Dr. Michael Binder.

We unpack the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in Florida, including their struggles to unify progressives and moderates, as well as their difficulties in mobilizing voters compared to the Republicans.

We touch on the dynamics between campaign co-Chair Susie Wiles, Governor Ron DeSantis, and newly elected President Donald Trump.

Dr. Binder also offers his analysis of the failure of Amendments 3 and 4, and what these outcomes mean for Florida's political future.

Whether you're a political junkie or just curious about the latest developments, this episode promises insights and discussions that you won't want to miss.

Enjoy!

Election Day Insights and Behind-the-Scenes Campaign Comments Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "Mikes on Mic," the podcast where we talk politics, government, and all things Jacksonville!

Today, we've got stories, laughs, and career highlights from our hosts Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Hightower, along with our producer, Scott Westerman.

Tolbert kicks off with a funny campaign story about a "BRATLEY FILE" and a dog race bet, while Hightower shares lessons from his shift to Blue Cross Blue Shield and his key role in the 2000 Bush vs. Gore election.

Miller recounts a memorable 1976 interview with Jimmy Carter and his move from broadcasting to Jacksonville city government.

Join us for a fun mix of campaign tales, political insights, and a sneak peek at our next guest, Dr. Michael Binder, who will break down the 2024 election results.

Let's dive in!
00:00 Mike Tolbert: Political strategist, longtime collaborator introduction.
05:30 Meeting with Jacksonville leaders about mayoral election.
09:58 Jake's campaign fizzled; he supported Delaney.
11:33 Highlight: Mike Hightower's impressive fundraising and leadership.
15:40 $300 billion now equals $1.4 billion then.
19:54 Introduced to influential political figures; bought boots.
22:05 Mike covered political events, became ABC morning host.
24:15 Florida decided George W. Bush's presidency victory.
30:55 Proposed IMAX led to government career opportunity.
32:14 Lou Lou was supported by business community.
35:48 Ended up at Bamboo Luau with Ron.
39:04 You represent and protect Blue Cross Blue Shield.
42:11 Mentors taught importance of personal investment, leadership.
47:28 Network crowd couldn't access studio for broadcast.
50:42 Leadership requires love, especially during extraordinary times.
53:51 Next episode moved due to Election Day.
55:15 Need more context to summarize effectively.

Counting the votes and comparisons with the election of 2020 Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

With one of the most important elections of our lifetime coming up, Duval Supervisor of Elections, Jerry Holland joins Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower and Mike Miller to discuss how Duval County voter data has changed since 2020, the increase in Non Party Affiliated voters and the massive task of tallying the numbers.
The group discusses the evolution of voting technology, changes to the process necessitated by two recent hurricanes and the steps the Supervisor of Elections takes to ensure the voice of the people is tallied, securely, accurately and fast.
#Election2024 #VoterTurnout #VotingMatters #ElectionSecurity #NonPartyAffiliated #VoteTech #HurricaneImpact #ElectionIntegrity #YourVoteCounts #SupervisorOfElections #VotingProcess #ElectionChanges #ElectionDiscussion

Unpacking Duval County's Loaded Ballot: What You Need to Know Before Voting with Dr. Michael Binder Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to Mikes On Mic!
Today, we're breaking down the complexities of the upcoming November 5th general election.
Join us as we discuss:
How cell phones and robocalls are changing voter outreach through polling mechanics.
The key statewide and local elections that will impact governance.
The rise of negative campaigning and its effect on voter turnout in the current political climate.
What you need to know about Constitutional Amendments 1, 3, and 4, including the hot-button issues of abortion and marijuana legalization.
What happens to school board elections if Amendment 1 passes?
Don't miss this in-depth look at Florida's political landscape!
Stay informed, and make your vote count.

A look into the complex issue of Homelessness Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic!
Homelessness in Jacksonville is a growing problem and our city is a leader in services to the homeless community. But some on the City Council who hold the purse strings are reluctant to fully fund Mayor Deegan's initiatives.
This week, we visited with the executive director of Jacksonville's award-winning Sulzbacher Center, Cindy Funkhouser, about her team, the organization's services and the challenges of engaging with the homeless and the city leaders who ultimately control the budgets.
Among the issues we discussed include:
The Mayor's 12 recommendations to address homelessness
Nearly half of the homeless in Jacksonville are now women? And data shows that nearly all have been assaulted since becoming homeless?
Affordable housing is often the biggest barrier to getting the homeless off the streets?
The history of the Sulzbacher Center and the other non-profit organizations who serve the homeless community?
Cindy joins the Mikes for a deep dive into this important and often overlooked issue.
Enjoy!
#JacksonvilleBudget #MayorDeegan #CityCouncil #AffordableHousing #HomelessnessCrisis #CityReserves #PoliticalDebate #CommunityProjects #SulzbacherCenter

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Mikes on Mic – Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower

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