Hello Hillsborough

Grace and Tyler sit down with Tom, Hillsborough’s budget expert, to explore how the County builds and manages its annual budget, and how you can apply those same principles to your own personal budget. From setting aside emergency reserves to prioritizing long-term investments over quick fixes, this episode shares how the County allocates budget dollars and practical tips you can apply to your own household budget.

Did you know you can create a stunning yard without breaking the bank? It can be eco-friendly and thrive in Florida’s climate, too.  Hilary and Tyler talk to Lynn from Hillsborough County’s Extension Service office to break down the nine principles of “Florida-Friendly Landscaping.”  

Hilary and Tyler get a firsthand look at the pickleball scene in Hillsborough County, the sport's origin, and Parks & Recreation’s plans to keep up with the pickleball craze. Plus, Coach Pat breaks down basic rules and terminology, and shares how to get started with free pickleball lessons.

Hilary and Tyler get the buzz on how to mitigate the mosquitoes that could be breeding in your own backyard, why some people are more prone to mosquito bites, and how the County’s Mosquito Management team monitors and prevents the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses.   

Hilary and Tyler sit down with Anthony, a senior environmental scientist from the Water Resources department, to learn about sustainable water conservation practices.   Tune in to hear how you can start "Florida-friendly" landscaping and the little daily habits that can save the environment and your wallet.

Hilary and Tyler sit down with Lynn from the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center  to discover how its resources – from collaboration and mentorship to workforce programs for Veterans – can help turn your idea into a thriving business. Plus, Tyler puts his own business pitch to the test! Will it land? Tune in to find out.

For our first BONUS episode, Hilary and Tyler sit down with Stephanie from Neighborhood Relations.  Stephanie tells us about the exciting improvements taking place in our neighborhoods, the resources and opportunities they provide, and how YOU can get involved.  She also walks us through the Neighborhood Mini-Grant program, while Hilary and Tyler start getting excited for this year's Neighborhoods Expo.

Why not fall in love with your next pet this Valentine’s Day? Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center (PRC) cares for the county’s furriest residents as they wait for their fur-ever home.

Hilary and Tyler sit down with Chelsea from PRC and dive into the incredible work PRC does to care for animals and support pet owners. Plus, hear about volunteer opportunities and how you might find your loving companion at PRC.  

Hilary and Tyler sit down with Alison from Conservation & Environmental Lands Management and Mikah from Parks & Recreation.  They chat about the Hiking Spree, an annual challenge to hike at least eight nature trails, the opportunities to connect with nature right here in Hillsborough County, and how people of all ages and skill levels can get started.

Tune in to hear Hilary and Tyler test their recycling knowledge and learn how to keep the holidays eco-friendly. Danny will also share what actually happens to your recyclables, how to properly recycle holiday items, and even a little bit of recycling ASMR!

Hilary and Tyler speak with Brian, a registered dietician from Hillsborough County Aging Services. Brian shares which foods can support brain health and boost energy levels and how to balance holiday meals through the plate method. Plus, Brian chimes in on simple ways to stay active amid the holiday hustle and improve holistic health and longevity.

Hilary and Tyler speak with Katja from Hillsborough Fire Rescue's Office of Emergency Management. Katja clears up misconceptions about hurricane season and breaks down the important distinction between flood zones and evacuation zones. Plus, find out about the dangers of storm surge and what you need to know to stay safe when storms approach.

Hilary and Tyler talk with Chely, a librarian with Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC). They discuss how HCPLC can help ease back-to-school anxiety, support kids with different learning styles, and how to make library outings a family activity! Plus, find out why librarians are some of the most helpful resources you can have as a Hillsborough County resident.