The Sunshine Economy

A 'perfect storm' of problems plagues Florida's home insurance market May 23, 2022

The home insurance market is broken with companies collapsing or leaving — raising costs and risks for homeowners.

How Disney and DeSantis clashed over power and policy, and what it means for business and politics in Florida May 10, 2022

The battle between Gov. DeSantis and Disney CEO Bob Chapek is a rare public display of big business and hard knuckle politics.

'If we don't open, mom can't go to work' — the pandemic puts a priority on child care May 02, 2022

The child care industry is pivotal for parents being able to work and for children's early learning. It struggles to compete for workers.

BONUS: Why a veteran climate activist thinks Russia's war in Ukraine may be a turning point for fossil fuels Apr 18, 2022

The Russian war in Ukraine has brought focus — again — to sources of energy. Climate activist Bill McKibben talks about how he hopes the war will reshape the developed world's relationship with fossil fuels.

How two generations are fighting climate change by focusing on finance and age Apr 18, 2022

Delaney Reynolds and Bill McKibben are from different generations and live on opposite ends of the East Coast. Both have committed themselves toward fighting climate change and rallying politicians and people, while increasingly focusing on finance.

How a banker, baker and cleaner survived, then thrived during the pandemic, and new challenges they face Apr 11, 2022

WLRN has been following three businesses for more than a year as the regional economy recovers from COVID-19.

The South Florida economy experiences 'a different kind of surge' while sentiment wanes Apr 04, 2022

The unemployment rate has plunged while the inflation rate has soared, hurting consumer confidence.

One couple's small business journey during the pandemic Mar 21, 2022

COVID-19 cost them one business, but Jamila and Akino West used their pandemic pivot to reinvest and reinvent their entrepreneurial ambitions.

Russia’s war in Ukraine and its impact on countries with close ties to South Florida. Mar 14, 2022

War has broken out in Eastern Europe. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is felt here with higher gasoline prices, but it also impacts countries with close ties to South Florida.

How four South Florida small businesses survived two years of COVID-19 and are growing again Mar 07, 2022

First it was the virus, now small firms are dealing with new challenges like inflation and finding workers.

How two bills would rewrite the relationship between businesses and local governments in Florida Mar 01, 2022

The latest Tallahassee Takeover podcast from WLRN News explores the building friction over business and local rules. The battle over booze in Miami Beach may be its first test.

The newest cruise ship operator at PortMiami says 'we're being singled out as an industry' Feb 14, 2022

Virgin Voyages hopes to stand out in the cruise ship business with its rock-and-roll attitude and adults-only cruises even as the CDC still advises travelers to avoid cruising because of COVID.

The South Florida housing market has 'too few roofs to rent or own' Feb 07, 2022

The escalating unaffordability of housing for local workers threatens competitiveness and quality of life, and worries housing experts.

The storm in Florida's home insurance market is not weather-related. It's fraud and litigiousness Jan 31, 2022

After years of shrinking, the state taxpayer-backed property insurance company Citizens has been growing as private insurers lose money in Florida.

How a South Florida insurer is dealing with the cost of COVID care, at-home tests, and Obamacare Jan 24, 2022

The second year of COVID-19 could cost $50 million for health insurance company AvMed.

From parking lots to ghost kitchens – how Reef Technology is changing the restaurant business and regulations Jan 17, 2022

A Miami company has attracted big investors and is reshaping the restaurant industry.

Teddy bears, bedroom sets and brand new cars — what's fueling inflation for South Florida companies? Dec 13, 2021

How inflation is affecting South Florida businesses from furniture to food, new cars to even Tonka toy trucks.

Florida's special session: About protections from 'federal overreach' or 'vehicle for misinformation'? Nov 22, 2021

Florida Republican lawmakers said employees need protections against being fired for not getting vaccinated. Democrats called it political theater casting doubt on COVID-19 vaccines.

Costs and considerations for home health care of aging loved ones in Florida Nov 15, 2021

The demand for home health care has increased even while the supply of workers has been squeezed thanks to how most of the care is paid for.

The cruise line boss who is challenging Florida's vaccine passport ban Nov 08, 2021

Norwegian Cruise Line requires all its passengers and crew to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and has been fighting in court to continue its mandate.

Expert says lack of earning and the 'right kind of housing' keeps Florida in an affordable housing crisis Nov 01, 2021

Parts of Florida consistently rank as some of the most unaffordable places to live with the combination of low incomes and high housing costs.

Where are Florida's workers and how are industries responding? Oct 25, 2021

Thousands of people have dropped out of the job market even as the economy continues rebounding. From hotels to health care, companies are looking to hire.

Facing the cost and challenges of caregiving in South Florida Oct 18, 2021

COVID-19 has highlighted how older Americans are cared for, the special vulnerabilities they face, and the challenges families have to confront when making caregiving decisions.

Why does a Miami mask maker have millions of them waiting for buyers? Oct 11, 2021

Medical products maker Demetech moved into masks early during the pandemic, but now is left holding millions of them.

There's a long way to go, but the South Florida economy and COVID-19 outlook are improving Oct 04, 2021

The South Florida economy has been growing, but it remains far from its pre-pandemic condition. Meantime, the virus continues spreading.

A $1 Billion Deal Brings New Player To South Florida Hospital Market Sep 27, 2021

A billion-dollar deal for five South Florida hospitals brings a new operator to the region. Steward Health Care is the largest physician-owned hospital network in the country and bought several facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

Related Group's Next Generation Talks South Florida Real Estate After Surfside, And During COVID Sep 20, 2021

Jorge Pérez built Related Group into one of the leading condominium and apartment developers in the region, reshaping the South Florida skyline — especially along the waterfront. Now his two oldest sons have taken over the day-to-day running of the company after the Surfside collapse and during a pandemic.

Vaccines And Vacancies: Navigating Pandemic Protocols In The Workplace Sep 13, 2021

The job market is strong in South Florida. Offices are reopening and COVID-19 vaccines are available. So what pandemic policies are companies putting in place?

'Are We Ready? We're Ready' – PortMiami Director On The Return Of Cruising May 24, 2021

It’s a multi-billion dollar question for the South Florida economy — when will cruise ships set sail again with passengers? PortMiami's boss says: "We're ready."

How A Baker, Banker And Cleaner Are Growing Their Local Businesses — And Looking For Help May 18, 2021

For months the Sunshine Economy has been following three businesswomen navigating the pandemic economy. The baker, banker, and cleaner have been growing in their optimism even as each of them have had trouble finding new employees.

From Moment to Movement: The Technology Industry In The Sunshine Economy May 10, 2021

In 2015, the Sunshine Economy asked a group of Miami technology leaders to imagine what the industry could look like in 2030. Six years, a global pandemic and one viral tweet later, the five people are even more convinced that Miami’s tech movement has arrived now.

Raising The Curtain For South Florida Arts Economy And Workers May 03, 2021

COVID-19 shut down South Florida’s arts economy. Performances, concerts and productions came to a stop for artists and behind-the-scene workers. But, slowly, the curtain is rising again.

Florida and France: Travel, Climate Change, Caribbean and Space Apr 26, 2021

"Florida is a very important place for French investors," said France's Ambassador to the U.S. Philippe Étienne, during a visit for the launch of a French crew member from Kennedy Space Center to the International Space Station.

When Will Cruise Ships Sail Again In The Sunshine Economy? 'Sooner Than Many People May Think' Says Royal Caribbean Int'l CEO Apr 19, 2021

It has been more than a year since a cruise ship sailed from the U.S. with paying passengers. So when does Royal Caribbean International hope to be able to shove off from South Florida ports?

The Sunshine Economy: Why A South Florida Bank Was A Big Lender Of COVID-19 Rescue Money Apr 12, 2021

City National Bank of Florida was one of the most prolific lenders of government rescue money during the pandemic.

The Sunshine Economy: A Look Back At The COVID-19 Year In Florida Mar 16, 2021

One year after the pandemic took hold of the economy, shutting down the hospitality industry and costing thousands of jobs, these business owners are fighting their way back. And in some cases, the future looks brighter now.

The Tug-of-War Over Public Education in Florida Mar 08, 2021

The state government pushed local school districts to reopen classrooms last fall sooner than elected school board members thought was safe. Some see it as the state standing up for parent choice, while others interpreted it as the state undermining local decision-making.

'The Cost Of Not Acting': How Ineffective Virtual Learning Could Shrink Students' Lifetime Earnings Mar 01, 2021

More than a million public school students in Florida are going to school through a screen. That may cost them and the U.S. economy in the decades to come.

South Florida Public School Leaders Warn: 'Missing' Students Could Lead To 'Draconian' Budget Cuts Feb 22, 2021

During this special Class of COVID-19 edition of The Sunshine Economy, superintendents of South Florida school districts detail how they're trying to find thousands of students who aren't going to school — and what the consequences will be if they don't.

Class of COVID-19: The Pandemic and Public Higher Education Feb 15, 2021

With the state facing a budget crunch thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, what has been the impact of the virus on the finances of local colleges and universities? Can schools keep tuition in check?

After Two Pandemic Postponements, Opening A Restaurant During A Recession And A Reckoning Feb 01, 2021

Star chef Marcus Samuelsson was determined to open a new restaurant in South Florida, even during a recession.

Missing Passengers, Moving Cargo. How PortMiami Is Trading Through The Pandemic Jan 25, 2021

Millions of cruise ship passengers have been missing from PortMiami during the pandemic, but parts of the port are busier than ever.

The Sunshine Economy: Cuban Currency Unification Jan 11, 2021

After more than 25 years, Cuba is doing away with its dual currency system and getting rid of the Cuban Convertible Peso. What does the change mean for Cubans and for Cuban-Americans trying to help family and friends on the island?

The Sunshine Economy: The Business Of Testing COVID-19 Vaccine And Volunteers Dec 22, 2020

The global search for COVID-19 vaccines has included South Florida as drug companies use clinical research companies here to find, manage, and follow local volunteers.

The Sunshine Economy: Competing In The Global Mask Market From Miami Dec 15, 2020

COVID-19 vaccines may be coming, but there remains big demand for personal protective equipment like masks, especially N95 masks. South Florida manufacturer Demetech has pivoted during the pandemic to compete in the global mask market.

The Sunshine Economy: How a Baker, Banker and Bartender are Navigating the Pandemic Economy Dec 01, 2020

Since September, the Sunshine Economy has been following how a baker, banker and bartender have been finding their way through the pandemic economy for themselves and their businesses.

Feeding The Sunshine Economy In South Florida Nov 23, 2020

For months, since the pandemic started, South Florida has been ranked one of the most food insecure areas of the country. About a half million people report sometimes or often not having enough to eat, and most of them report losing income, according to U.S. Census Bureau surveys.

The Sunshine Economy: Federal COVID-19 Stimulus and Local Governments Nov 10, 2020

The clock has been ticking for months on whether or not Congress will find a compromise on another round of federal government stimulus spending, and whether or not local governments could see some direct help.

The Sunshine Economy: A New Normal Nov 02, 2020

As the battle against COVID-19 wears on, what’s the new normal? How could the pandemic reshape work and wages? How could it influence health care and the tourism industry?

The Sunshine Economy: Civility and Commerce Oct 27, 2020

The political rhetoric this election is red hot and often downright rude. But is there a business cost from incivility? Research shows rudeness is contagious. What is the effect on commerce?

The Sunshine Economy: Race, Real Estate And A Recovery Oct 19, 2020

Don Peebles' real estate career in South Florida began because of racial tension and economic inclusion 25 years ago – a theme that has emerged again in the aftermath of the George Floyd killing. Peebles wants to diversify his industry as he's optimistic about the post-pandemic recovery.

Regional Federal Reserve Boss: 'Still A Lot of Precariousness' in the Economy Oct 12, 2020

Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta President Raphael Bostic on the need for more economic stimulus from the federal government, the uneven rebound, and a more vocal central bank on race and the economy.

The Sunshine Economy: Young Workers and COVID-19 Oct 05, 2020

The American job market went from one of the strongest into a deep recession in a matter of a couple of weeks this spring. Tens of millions of the country’s youngest workers were just getting started.

The Sunshine Economy: How Hotels Hope to Rebound from COVID-19 Sep 28, 2020

Winter can’t come fast enough for South Florida’s hotels. The industry is struggling with fewer people traveling. Demand remains low in most places with tourism and business travel still way down.

The Sunshine Economy: How Can The Restaurant Business Bounce Back from COVID-19? Sep 21, 2020

Tens of thousands of jobs have been lost, restaurants have closed permanently while others struggle to get by on a fraction of their business as they slowly and partially reopen. How can the industry bounce back?

Sunshine Economy: K12 Responds to Critics, Pandemic Economy Wears On Sep 14, 2020

Ten days into the new school year the Miami-Dade County Public School Board voted to stop using troubled virtual classroom software from K12. The CEO responds to critics.

The Sunshine Economy: Financial Statements – Stories Of Money And The Price Of Life During COVID-19 May 25, 2020

Sheng Guo was among the first people in South Florida to experience the impact of COVID-19. He grew up near Wuhan, China, where the virus started. He lives in Weston now, but his parents and grandmother still live close to Wuhan. Guo is an economics instructor at FIU.

The Sunshine Economy: Working and Living With COVID-19 May 19, 2020

The new normal is here. Florida began a full phase one reopening with restaurant dining rooms, shopping malls and hotels reopening with limitations on Monday.

The Sunshine Economy: Hiring, Hospitality and COVID-19 May 12, 2020

Shipmonk was used to hiring people fast to fill jobs in its expanding Fort Lauderdale wareshouse. Since COVID-19 hit, the company has been telling some job applicants to show up for their first day of work without even an interview.

The Sunshine Economy: Borrowing And Business During COVID-19 May 05, 2020

Pilar Guzman Zavala and Bill Feinberg own very different companies, but both have been hit by COVID-19. Dozens of employees between them have been brought back thanks to emergency borrowing programs instituted to help companies keep people employed.

The Sunshine Economy: COVID-19 And The Hospital Business Apr 27, 2020

When drive-through COVID-19 testing was first offered in Broward County, one of the first was at Cleveland Clinic Florida in Weston. That was five weeks ago.

The Sunshine Economy: COVID-19 And Federal Stimulus Apr 21, 2020

Stimulus payments are going out. Small businesses have applied for emergency loans.

The Sunshine Economy: COVID-19 And The Federal Reserve Apr 13, 2020

The economic consequences of efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 are becoming clear. A half million people in Florida have filed for unemployment in just three weeks. And that’s just the people who were captured by the government data. There are others who have been turned back by the state unemployment website and its failures.

The Sunshine Economy: South Florida Real Estate And The Coronavirus Apr 06, 2020

Jack McCabe is scared.

The Sunshine Economy: Closing The Keys To Fight Coronavirus Mar 30, 2020

Fifty percent unemployment?

The Sunshine Economy: Restaurants And Coronavirus Mar 24, 2020

The sounds bounced off walls in empty restaurant dining rooms and cafes.

The Sunshine Economy: Conferences And The Coronavirus Mar 16, 2020

Some beaches have closed. Cruise ships are docked. Airlines have grounded some planes. Disney and Universal in Orlando are closed. Local attractions are shut down. Theaters are dark. Hotel reservations are cancelled. Restaurants and bars are closing early.

The Nursing Home Industry And The Coronavirus In The Sunshine Economy Mar 09, 2020

Florida’s large population of senior citizens and people without health insurance make the state vulnerable to the threat posed by an outbreak of COVID-19. The number of cases in the state remain relatively small, but it has been growing as testing for the virus has grown.

The Coronavirus And The Sunshine Economy Mar 03, 2020

Jay Foreman is no stranger to China and the global supply chain. He runs Basic Fun, based in Boca Raton. It imports toys like My Little Pony Classic and Pound Puppies from China. A dozen Basic Fun employees work in China and 65 work in Hong Kong.

The Sunshine Economy: Lloyd's Of London CEO On The Rising Cost of Risk And Climate Change Feb 25, 2020

The quiet season is about half over. The time between Nov. 30 and June 1 is usually quiet in the tropics. The six months between June and November is hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean. And the last few seasons have been reminders about the threats posed to Florida.

The Sunshine Economy: Financial Statements — Still More Stories Of Money And The Price Of Life Feb 18, 2020

Michelle Zambrana feels like she is chasing the Miami lifestyle, but can't quite catch it. She and her husband, Oscar Rosenberg, recently had their second child right after Rosenberg lost his job at the bank where he worked 15 years.

The Sunshine Economy: The Business Of The 'Hamilton' Bump Feb 10, 2020

The “'Hamilton' Bump” is not a dance move during the blockbuster musical. It is a financial move driven by the hugely successful show.

Sports Betting In The Sunshine Economy Feb 03, 2020

Daniel Wallach says he is not a sports gambler and hasn't been for decades.

The Sunshine Economy: Rebuilding The Northern Bahamas After Hurricane Dorian Jan 27, 2020

Great Abaco Island remains beautiful but scarred. It is scarred from the seemingly endless hours of winds and water from Hurricane Dorian in September. Its economy is quiet — quieted by the worst storm spawned from warm Atlantic waters ever to hit the Bahamas. And its residents are few. Thousands forced off the island because they have no homes any longer.

The Autonomous Vehicle Industry In The Sunshine Economy Jan 14, 2020

Being in an autonomous vehicle can be a lot of work.

The Sunshine Economy: Financial Statements — More Stories Of Money And The Price Of Life Jan 06, 2020

Randolph Watts has had tough times. He was a drug addict. He spent time in jail. But he’s been sober for more than 20 years and has had a steady job for the past decade at a deli in North Miami Beach. He considers himself "blessed."

The Sunshine Economy: Creativity and Commerce During Art Week Dec 02, 2019

Tomas Esson's giant paintings will not be at Art Basel Miami Beach this year, yet he's hopeful this could be his break out year. "I have been close to that breaking point, but I never have made that crossover yet. So maybe this is my time. I am ready," he said.

The Sunshine Economy: Florida Priorities Summit And Diversifying State’s Job Market Nov 25, 2019

Florida's economy is booming by most economic metrics. The unemployment rate is near a record low. Over 125 million tourists will visit the state this year. And property values are still growing, even though the pace has slowed.

The Sunshine Economy: Financial Statements - Stories Of Money And The Price of Life in South Florida Nov 21, 2019

The story of South Florida’s economy is more than statistics. Behind the well-known data on income disparity, housing affordability, and low average pay are the voices of people grappling with its adversities and those thriving from its opportunities. These stories are from people who are struggling to make ends meet, and the experiences of others enjoying prosperity. These are personal portraits of real people sharing the role money plays in their lives in South Florida.

The Sunshine Economy: Miami-Dade County's Water And Sewer Boss Oct 21, 2019

“I have become the water and sewer system,” said Kevin Lynskey. “Apparently, I am the water and sewer system.”

Convenience Stores In The Sunshine Economy Oct 08, 2019

The list of names reads like a busy rest stop on the Turnpike.

The Sunshine Economy: Climate Risk and Credit Sep 30, 2019

Ask any consumer — good credit goes a long way.

The Sunshine Economy: Trade With China Sep 23, 2019

A yellow line on the floor in one of Andres Ochoa's warehouses is the difference between struggling with higher costs and competing for new customers.

College Costs In The Sunshine Economy Sep 16, 2019

"If you're a full time student, about $2,400 a year."

Carnival Corp. Boss On Environmental Rules, Cuba, And Cruise Technology Sep 09, 2019

Arnold Donald says he planned to be in federal court on June third in Miami. That was the date of a hearing in front of a judge overseeing the probation of the company he leads -- Carnival Corporation.

Carnival Corp. Boss: 'There Were Some Gaps' In Environmental Oversight Aug 26, 2019

Arnold Donald admits there were gaps in how the world's largest cruise ship operator followed environmental rules.

Trulieve In The Sunshine Economy: Medical Marijuana And Money May 21, 2019

Kim Rivers' dad was a Jacksonville Sheriff's deputy while she was growing up. For a time, he was working with an undercover narcotics unit.

The Business of Cannabis In The Sunshine Economy May 14, 2019

Business from cannabis is growing fast in Florida; some of it regulated tightly, and some of it without rules. But all of it comes with cash that the banking industry is reluctant to touch.

State Spending In The Sunshine Economy May 08, 2019

Florida lawmakers have finished their work for the year. The 60-day legislative session had to have a few extra hours on Saturday for them to okay a $91.1 billion state budget.

The Sunshine Economy: Building Boat Sharing Company Boatsetter Apr 30, 2019

For several years, South Florida has been working on its technology credentials. Tech incubators, accelerators, pitch competitions and other efforts have worked to nurture and grow the technology industry, especially tech start-ups.

The Sunshine Economy: Cars, Trade, Jobs and The Future Of Driving With AutoNation's Mike Jackson Apr 24, 2019

Mike Jackson used to shovel horse manure for one dollar a stall. He wound up leading a company selling over half a million new and used cars and trucks a year.

The Sunshine Economy: State Spending Grows At Slower Rate Apr 16, 2019

Republicans and Democrats in Tallahassee are in agreement on at least one thing as they forge a state budget that will total around $90 billion: Florida's economy is doing well.

The Sunshine Economy: A Conversation With Resiliency Leaders Apr 10, 2019

After two and a half years of work, a comprehensive report on how to better prepare Miami for all kinds of threats -- economic, health and especially climate risks -- is expected to be released by the end of May.

The Sunshine Economy: Remaking The Miami Marlins Mar 26, 2019

The Miami Marlins is one of the least-liked teams in Major League Baseball. More than $1 billion in public money will have been spent for their new stadium by the time all the loans are paid. The team's management hasn't been shy about getting rid of top players. It's been 15 years since a playoff appearance, and the Marlins have ranked near the lowest in attendance for six years.

The Sunshine Economy: Talking Water, Transit, and Aid For Venezuela on Capitol Hill Mar 19, 2019

Lake Okeechobee may be a natural feature of the Florida landscape, but politics also come into play when it comes to it.

The Sunshine Economy: Miami Dade College Says Farewell To President Eduardo Padrón Mar 12, 2019

Eduardo Padrón's first role at Miami Dade College was student. In August, he will resign from the role he has played for the past 24 years -- president of the school.

The Sunshine Economy: Immigration And Moving Money With Western Union Mar 06, 2019

Odilon Almeida was 25 when he first walked into a Western Union. He was working for Colgate Palmolive in Toronto and wanted to send money to his nephew back in Brazil for his birthday.

The Sunshine Economy: Accountability, Safety Policies And School Security With Broward Schools Boss Feb 19, 2019

A year after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, Robert Runcie says he wants to make Broward County Public Schools the safest in the nation.

The Sunshine Economy: One Year Since The Stoneman Douglas School Shooting Feb 12, 2019

In the year since their daughters were murdered at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland on Feb. 14, 2018, Lori Alhadeff and Ryan Petty have taken on public roles.

The Sunshine Economy: The State Budget Feb 06, 2019

Familiar battlelines are being drawn over the biggest pieces Florida's state budget -- healthcare and education.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected