The CCPA Playbook - Citrus County Property Appraiser

Latest Episodes:

Episode 12: Clear Waters, Big Impact: Save Crystal River & the Manatees Oct 10, 2025

Show notes

Episode 12 of the CCPA Playbook has dropped! Cregg recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Tina Champagne from Save Crystal River on our podcast to hear all about the fin-tastic work their team has been doing to protect our beloved waters. From the impact recent hurricanes have had on the eelgrass, to the incredible partnership with Crystal River Elementary, where students grow eelgrass in the classroom and get their hands wet planting it in Hunter Springs, Tina covered it all. Talk about future seagrass scientists in the making!

She also let us in on a little secret: Save Crystal River will be hosting a fundraiser this fall. While the exact date is still under wraps, we’re already bubbling with excitement! In the meantime, paddle on over to SaveCrystalRiver.com to explore their monthly newsletter and stay current on all the waves they’re making.

Be sure to tune into this episode with Tina, where we dive deeper into the mission to keep our waters crystal clear, our manatees munching happily, and our community engaged in preserving the natural beauty of Citrus County.

Listen now on all of your favorite streaming platforms!

Episode 11: More Than Electricity: WREC’s Mission in Action Sep 26, 2025

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Episode 11 of the CCPA Playbook Podcast has just dropped! 🎤

In this episode of The CCPA Playbook, Cregg Dalton sits down with Jamen Monbarren, Gary Steele, and Pat Sullivan from Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative WREC to talk about careers in the power industry, hurricane preparedness, community service, and life as a lineman. The crew shares how WREC’s apprenticeship program offers a paid, hands-on path to becoming a journeyman lineman, the constant need for safety training, and the importance of public awareness—especially during Florida’s storm season.

They dive into practical tips for residents, from creating a storm plan and using generators safely to simple changes that can lower electric bills. The conversation also spotlights WREC’s deep community involvement, their Operation Roundup program that helps neighbors in crisis, and their international outreach projects in the Navajo Nation and Guatemala. With humor, heartfelt stories, and actionable advice, this episode sheds light on the people who keep the lights on—both at home and across the globe.

Listen now on all your favorite streaming platforms!

Episode 10: From Barn to Beyond: 4-H Leaders Shaping the Future of Agriculture Sep 05, 2025

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🚜From Barn to Beyond: 4-H Leaders Shaping the Future of Agriculture

In this special agriculture-focused episode, host Cregg Dalton sits down with Dr. Marnie Ward, Citrus County’s 4-H Agent, and two standout 4-H graduates — Grace Ward and Evan Leturno — to explore the lasting impact of 4-H on youth leadership, career paths, and community engagement.

Grace and Evan share their 13-year journeys in the Lecanto Levi’s 4-H Club, from raising chickens and swine to earning top honors for steers, including Florida’s Best Carcass award. They discuss how 4-H shaped their leadership skills, career goals, and understanding of agriculture beyond the barn — from genetics and turfgrass management to the latest in agricultural technology like AI-driven “digital twins.”

Dr. Ward highlights the deep connection between 4-H, local schools, and the University of Florida IFAS Extension, and previews the upcoming Expanding Agriculture Workforce program on September 12th for Citrus County high school students. The conversation also spotlights the community’s support through events like the Citrus Stampede Rodeo (November 21–22), which funds scholarships and youth projects.

Whether you’re an agriculture enthusiast, a parent exploring youth programs, or someone curious about how technology and tradition intersect in farming, this episode delivers inspiration, insight, and a reminder that agriculture’s future starts with our young leaders.

🎧Listen now on your favorite streaming platforms!

Episode 9: Integrity in Every Square Foot: A Woman’s Appraisal Journey Aug 15, 2025

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In this episode of the CCPA Playbook, we sit down with Wynta Loughrey, a seasoned leader in the property appraisal world, currently serving as the Commercial Manager for Sarasota County and President of the Florida Chapter of IAAO (FCIAAO).

Wynta shares her unique leadership philosophy, shaped by years of experience across multiple states including Indiana, Kansas, and New Hampshire. She opens up about her journey as a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry, her passion for mentorship, and even the story of how she met her husband through work.

Tune in as Wynta compares the cultures of Sarasota and Citrus County, reflects on leading within an office, and discusses the professional and personal growth that comes from moving through different regions and roles in the appraisal field.

Episode 8: Huck’s Homemade Bracelets: Spreading Joy, One Bracelet at a Time Aug 08, 2025

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🎙️ Episode 8: Huck’s Homemade Bracelets: Spreading Joy, One Bracelet at a Time

In this special episode of the CCPA Playbook, Cregg sits down with a very special guest—his youngest entrepreneur yet—Huck, the creative 6-year-old behind Huck’s Homemade Bracelets. What started with one thoughtful bracelet and a big smile has turned into a growing business built on kindness, positivity, and purpose.

Huck talks about how a simple act of giving inspired him to launch his own bracelet business, how he donates bracelets to first responders and military members for free, and how he’s learned the ropes of running a business—all while on summer break. You’ll also hear about his plans for custom merchandise, his love of Legos, favorite challenge coins, and his dream of becoming a full-time business owner when he grows up.

Tune in for a joyful and heartwarming conversation with a kid who's proving that no one is too young to make a difference.

Episode 7: Leading Where It Counts: In Schools and In the Community with Darrick Buettner Aug 01, 2025

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In this episode of the CCPA Playbook, we sit down with Darrick Buettner — a respected leader who bridges the gap between education and community service in Citrus County and beyond. With a career rooted in purpose, Darrick has become a driving force behind impactful school district initiatives and grassroots efforts that strengthen our local communities.

From the classroom to the boardroom, his leadership isn’t just about policies or paperwork — it’s about building pathways, partnerships, and progress that actually serve people.

In this episode, we explore:

How strong leadership transforms both school systems and neighborhoods — and how Darrick balances both roles with clarity and intention.
The challenges of turning big ideas into real action — especially in spaces that require collaboration, patience, and persistence.
Why community engagement is a long game — and why staying consistent matters more than being loud.
The critical importance of creating clear, supportive pathways for students — whether they’re heading to college, joining the military, or stepping into a career straight out of high school.
How mentorship, servant leadership, and showing up every day builds trust and momentum.

Darrick also shares the importance of staying grounded, leading by example, and being someone others can count on — even when the spotlight isn’t shining.

Whether you're an educator, a public servant, a civic-minded neighbor, or just someone who wants to see their community grow — this conversation offers a front-row seat into what it really looks like to lead where it counts.

Episode 6: Behind the Gavel: Judge Amber Thomas’ Unique Journey Jul 18, 2025

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In this episode of The CCPA Playbook, Cregg sits down with Citrus County Court Judge Amber Thomas for a powerful and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss. Her path to the bench wasn’t the typical one—but every twist and turn helped shape her into the passionate, grounded, and community-driven judge she is today.

A proud Citrus County native, Judge Thomas carries the values of this community with her into every courtroom. Her deep local roots and steadfast commitment to justice make her more than just a judge—she’s a true guardian of the community’s trust.

Tune in to hear her inspiring journey, her love for the law, and what it truly means to serve the people with integrity.

Episode 5: Real Talk with Pastor Justin: Faith, Family & Community Jul 04, 2025

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In this episode of the CCPA Playbook, we sit down with Justin Strickland — sixth-generation Homosassa native, community leader, and lead bishop at the Crystal River Church of God.

Justin brings energy, laughter, and heart into every room he walks into. He’s more than a hometown pastor — he’s a true servant leader with deep roots in Citrus County and an unwavering commitment to building up others.

We dive into the stories that shaped him:
➡️ The mentors who lit the path.
➡️ His passion for pouring into the next generation through Youth Leadership Citrus.
➡️ His role as Chairman of the Citrus County Library Board and why access to resources matters.

But most of all, Justin reminds us that real leadership starts with authenticity. He says he’s most comfortable with people who are open about their struggles — because that’s where real growth and genuine connection begin.

From the pulpit to public service, Justin leads with both grit and grace — and you’ll feel every bit of that in this conversation.

💬 Tune in for a refreshing, faith-filled, and heartfelt episode that will leave you inspired, encouraged, and smiling.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — this one’s a gem.

Episode 4: More Than A Move: The Sold Sisters on Real Estate, Community, and Leadership Jun 20, 2025

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In this episode of The CCPA Playbook, Cregg sits down with Tomika and Kim—better known as The Sold Sisters—two dynamic women making waves in the Citrus County real estate scene.

But don’t let the title “Realtors” fool you—these two are so much more. Driven by heart, fueled by purpose, and rooted in their community, Tomika and Kim live by the motto: “More than A Move.” For them, real estate isn’t just about closing deals—it’s about building relationships, guiding families through big life changes, and leaving a lasting impact.

They open up about their personal journeys into real estate, their leadership roles in the industry, and what they’re seeing in today’s market—from home prices to mortgage trends. You’ll also hear them speak candidly about the value of strong partnerships and relationships—including their deep appreciation for the Citrus County Property Appraiser’s Office and the role it plays in community growth.

Episode 3: Navigating Mental Health in Sports Leadership with Jay Miller Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

Guest: Jay Miller – Head Softball Coach & Interim Athletic Director, Lake Sumter State College
Host: Cregg Dalton
Description:
In this powerful and introspective episode, Coach Jay Miller joins host Cregg Dalton to discuss the evolving role of mental health in athletics and leadership. As the head softball coach and interim athletic director at Lake Sumter State College, Jay brings raw honesty and deep insight into the emotional realities of coaching, leadership, and personal growth.
From his unconventional coaching philosophy featured in his book The Island to his reflections on the grit-versus-talent debate, Jay shares how building a strong, supportive culture goes far beyond wins and losses. The conversation touches on everything from the importance of open communication and mentorship to the often-overlooked challenge of maintaining work-life balance in high-pressure environments.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or leader in any field, this episode offers a refreshing and relatable perspective on the importance of mental wellness, accountability, and staying grounded in your “why.”
Key Themes:
*Mental wellness in coaching
*Culture over competition
*Accountability & open communication
*Leadership through relatability
*Grit vs. talent
*Professional growth through everyday moments
Memorable Quotes:
“We are unapologetically us.”
“I worry about them as people.”
“I am an insecure overachiever.”

**If anyone’s interested in Jay’s book The Island, they can grab it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1711042404?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_TZ2SDWYYYSBVA5EHQB0M&bestFormat=true

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