Tampa Bay Community Network Unplugged

In this Youtube episode of TBCN Unplugged, host John Casimiro sits down with TBCN’s very own Creative Director, Lazaria Johnson. A proud Tampa native, Lazaria shares her journey from discovering her passion for graphic design in high school to pursuing her studies at HCC. She talks about how she landed at TBCN, where she now teaches the popular Mobile Videography class, helping others develop their skills in creative storytelling. ...

In this episode of On the Grid, host EJ Moreno sits down with Dr. Christopher Meindl, award-winning geographer and professor at USF St. Petersburg. Dr. Meindl brings decades of research and insight into Florida's natural landscapes—especially its springs, rivers, wetlands, and lakes—and discusses the complex relationship between science, politics, and environmental policy. With a sharp focus on human-environment interaction, Dr. Me...

In this episode of On the Grid, host EJ Moreno sits down with Shana David-Massett, co-founder of Jacksonville’s beloved Sun Ray Cinema, to discuss the company’s exciting expansion into Tampa. Sun Ray is bringing its signature mix of indie spirit and community focus to the former LOOK Cinema at University Mall, reimagining the space as a vibrant hub for film, culture, and connection. Shana shares her vision for transforming the venu...

TBCN Unplugged –with Guest Wally Passet

Welcome to TBCN Unplugged—the podcast where we go behind the scenes with the creatives, musicians, and media minds shaping the culture around us.

Today, we’re talking with Wally Passet—a name that resonates deeply in the Southern California rock scene and beyond. He lit up stages in the ‘80s with Snakebyte, a hard-hitting metal band out of Encinitas known for its raw power and unforgettable l...

In this episode of On the Grid, host EJ Moreno sits down with Steve Scott, founder of Tampa SEO Training Academy and a true veteran of the digital marketing world. With a career in tech and training that spans over three decades, Steve shares how business owners—from startups to Fortune 1000 companies—can use SEO not just to survive, but thrive online. Steve opens up about the early days of search engine optimization, how the rules...

In this episode of TBCN Unplugged, co-hosts John Casimiro and EJ Moreno go full fan mode as they sit down with local B-movie legend Joel Wynkoop! Known for his over-the-top action roles, DIY filmmaking, and cult following, Joel opens up about his decades-long career as a self-made action hero. From writing, directing, and starring in his own films to selling DVDs with his wife at horror cons and comic book conventions, Joel has bui...

On the Grid – Humane Society of Tampa Bay In this episode of On the Grid, we delve into the compassionate world of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB). Joining us is Regan Blessinger, the organization's Marketing and Content Manager, who brings a wealth of experience in animal welfare and community engagement. Regan shares insights into HSTB's mission to end animal homelessness and the innovative programs they've implemented to ...

🎙️ In this episode of On the Grid, we sit down with Terri Willingham, Executive Director of the Foundation for Community Driven Innovation (FCDI) and Program Manager at AMRoC Fab Lab. Terri shares her journey from healthcare to hands-on innovation, and how she’s helping build equitable access to STEAM education and maker culture in Tampa Bay and beyond. We explore the power of community-driven spaces, the importance of inclusive i...

In this episode of Tampa Bay Community Network Unplugged, host EJ Moreno sits down with Stephanie Mackin and Andy Huse from USF Libraries Special Collections to uncover the hidden treasures housed in the archives. From rare books and historical documents to Tampa Bay’s rich media history, Stephanie and Andy share insights into the unique materials available for researchers, students, and the public. Whether you're a history buff, ...

In this episode of On The Grid, EJ Moreno sits down with Allan Antolik, Deputy Director of Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, to discuss his mission to keep our waterways and communities clean. From his years as a Battalion Chief and Hazardous Materials Response Team Commander in Wisconsin to captaining the Trash Free Waters boat in Tampa Bay, Allan brings a wealth of experience in environmental stewardship. Learn how his team tackles pollu...

In this episode of TBCN Unplugged, we sit down with EJ Moreno, a YouTube movie critic and celebrity interviewer, to discuss his journey from graduating with a film degree at Full Sail University to building a career in online media. EJ shares insights on breaking into the world of film criticism, the challenges of the industry, and what it's like to interview some of Hollywood’s biggest names. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn yo...

How to Make Viral Videos Like Jack Hartmann: Easy Steps for Success -TBCN Unplugged Join us on this episode of TBCN Unplugged as we dive into the incredible story of how Jeremiah Johnson helped Jack Hartmann's video skyrocket to a million views. We'll uncover the strategies, insights, and secrets behind this viral success. Discover how you can apply these techniques to your own content and achieve similar results. Don't miss this e...

Join host EJ Moreno on On the Grid as we sit down with the legendary Jack Hartmann, a name synonymous with children's educational music. With over 1,500 music videos under his belt and more than a billion views on YouTube, Jack has captured the hearts of children, parents, and educators worldwide. In this episode, Jack shares his incredible journey—from his early days as a songwriter and social worker to becoming a top YouTuber and...

In this episode, we chat with Nora Paine, Producing Artistic Director of New Tampa Players, about her journey in community theater and her mission to make the arts accessible to all. With over 50 productions under her belt and a passion for inclusivity, Nora shares how NTP is transforming lives through programs like the Penguin Project, empowering children and young adults with special needs. Discover how she’s fostering creativity...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Luis Viera, Tampa City Council Member! Get the inside scoop on the issues that matter most to our community as Councilman Viera discusses key initiatives, challenges, and future goals for Tampa. From city growth to public safety and everything in between, you won’t want to miss this chance to hear directly from one of our local leaders. Tune in, get informed, and be inspired to make a dif...

Join host Becky Yettaw on "Talk to Your Government" as she sits down with Bill Carlson, a dedicated member of the Tampa City Council, to discuss the heart and soul of our city. In this engaging interview, Carlson shares his insights on the importance of investing in the people of our region, prioritizing arts and culture, and nurturing the identity that makes Tampa truly unique. Discover how Carlson's vision for Tampa extends beyon...

Craig Powell is the founder and Executive Coordinator of PowerNet, a nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida. PowerNet focuses on helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration, with a strong emphasis on reducing recidivism and promoting psychosocial rehabilitation. Powell has overseen the development of PowerNet's Reentry Information Management System (RIMS), a tool designed to streamline the coordination ...

Junior Polo is an artist from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, now based in Tampa Bay. His work is heavily influenced by his Caribbean heritage and his passion for helping young people. Polo is known for working in multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, and pottery. His art often incorporates vibrant colors and reflects his love of Haitian culture.

He is also deeply involved in charitable work, especially with youth, and has a back...

Unlock the Secrets of DNA Testing in Tampa with Brian Crocker | DNA Testing Solutions Join host EJ Moreno and dive deep into the fascinating world of DNA testing right here in Tampa! In this episode of "On the Grid," we sit down with Brian Crocker, the visionary behind DNA Testing Solutions, to explore the rich history and evolution of DNA testing in our vibrant city. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped the trajectory of DNA t...