Mikes on Mic

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Mikes on Mic

Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower

123 episodes

3 days ago

Hi! Today we’re doing something a little different—and a little deeper—to honor the Thanksgiving holiday. This episode brings back one of our most requested conversations: Why are we so divided? Together with my co-hosts Mike Hightower and Mike Tolbert, we sit down with Dr. Sean Freeder, political science professor at UNF and expert on political polarization, to unpack the hard truths behind today’s fractured political landscape. We talk about why it feels nearly impossible to have civil c...

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Society & Culture,

All content for Mikes on Mic is the property of Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, Mike Hightower and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Hi! Today we’re doing something a little different—and a little deeper—to honor the Thanksgiving holiday. This episode brings back one of our most requested conversations: Why are we so divided? Together with my co-hosts Mike Hightower and Mike Tolbert, we sit down with Dr. Sean Freeder, political science professor at UNF and expert on political polarization, to unpack the hard truths behind today’s fractured political landscape. We talk about why it feels nearly impossible to have civil c...

Show more...

Society & Culture,

Episodes (20/123)

Mikes on Mic

Why Are We So Divided? A Thanksgiving Reflection on Political Polarization with Dr. Sean Freeder

Hi! Today we’re doing something a little different—and a little deeper—to honor the Thanksgiving holiday. This episode brings back one of our most requested conversations: Why are we so divided? Together with my co-hosts Mike Hightower and Mike Tolbert, we sit down with Dr. Sean Freeder, political science professor at UNF and expert on political polarization, to unpack the hard truths behind today’s fractured political landscape. We talk about why it feels nearly impossible to have civil c...

3 days ago

27 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Are We Repeating the Skyway Mistake? The Shocking Truth About Jacksonville’s Autonomous Shuttle

Is Jacksonville’s $370-a-Ride Transit Bet a Bust? Today we dive deep into Jacksonville’s bold experiment with autonomous transportation — NAVI — a cutting-edge, self-driving shuttle system meant to revolutionize downtown transit. But with only 76 daily riders and a staggering $370-per-passenger cost, is it already headed for the scrap heap? Joining us is veteran journalist David Bauerlein from the Florida Times-Union, whose relentless reporting exposes the real numbers, political infighting, ...

1 week ago

31 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Florida’s Top Concern: Housing Costs and What Polls Reveal About the 2026 Political Landscape

Welcome back to the show! This week, we are diving headfirst into the kitchen-table issues hitting Floridians the hardest—housing costs, property taxes, and skyrocketing insurance rates. Joining the conversation is special guest Dr. Michael Binder from UNF’s Public Opinion Research Lab, here to break down fresh polling data revealing what’s really keeping voters up at night—and why these concerns are resonating across party lines. What’s fueling the anxiety over affordability?Are Florida’s le...

2 weeks ago

29 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Navigating Political Challenges in City Governance with Bill Gulliford

Why do city leaders say "no" so often—and what does it really cost them? Today we dive deep into the behind-the-scenes world of city council politics, revealing the often unseen pressures, personal dilemmas, and power dynamics that shape local decision-making. You’ll hear how political leaders juggle transparency, legal fears, and public interest—all while keeping their cool (and sometimes cracking a joke) in high-stakes environments. We also talk: • Why the fear of legal backlash shapes p...

3 weeks ago

21 minutes

Mikes on Mic

An Inside Look Into the Ukraine/Russian War

It was an experience that very few or any Americans will ever have this opportunity to witness. Our podcast co-host, Mike Hightower, recently returned from a two week trip to Ukraine with an international group. The primary purpose was to deliver much needed medical supplies to battle field Ukraine soldiers. During this episode of Mikes on Mic, Hightower describes what he saw and summaries of meetings he had with Ukraine officials, doctors, patients and others whose lives have been tur...

1 month ago

28 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Whole Lot of Jacksonville History

We're throwing it back to one of our favorite milestone moments—the one-year anniversary of Mikes on Mic! In this special episode, originally recorded at The Jacksonville History Center, the Mikes reflect on highlights from the first 51 episodes that helped shape the conversation in and around Jacksonville. From Sheriff Nat Glover’s powerful stories, to Michael Krause of Politico on the influence of political strategist Susie Wiles, to early memories of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, and ins...

1 month ago

43 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Why Are We So Divided? Exploring the Roots and Remedies of Political Polarization with Dr. Sean Freeder

This week, we’re tackling a topic that’s hard to ignore: the growing political polarization in the U.S. To help us unpack it, we sat down with Dr. Sean Freeder, associate professor of political science at UNF, for a powerful and timely conversation. Why does the divide feel so personal these days? Why do disagreements so often spiral into full-blown hostility? Dr. Freeder brings a wealth of insight into the why behind the polarization — from the psychology driving it, to the role social...

1 month ago

27 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Leslie Jean-Bart on Sunshine Law, City Hall Transparency, and Jacksonville’s Political Legacy

On this episode of Mics on Mic, hosts Mike Miller and Mike Tolbert sit down with Leslie Jean-Bart—fifth-gen Jacksonville native, attorney, and activist—for a bold conversation on ethics, transparency, and power at City Hall. From Sunshine Law concerns to nonprofit funding tied to council members, Leslie brings legal insight and personal passion to the table. This one’s all about civic courage—don’t miss it. Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platform and on MikesOnMic...

1 month ago

35 minutes

Mikes on Mic

How will our local public broadcasting stations deal with public funding cutbacks?

Welcome back to Mikes on Mic, where we dive into the conversations shaping our community, government, and the future of Jacksonville. Today, we’re joined by David McGowan, CEO of WJCT Public Media — the voice and vision behind our city’s public radio and television outlets. Under his leadership, WJCT continues to inform, educate, and inspire Northeast Florida through trusted journalism, cultural programming, and innovative storytelling. In this episode, we dig into one of the most pressing c...

1 month ago

40 minutes

Mikes on Mic

The bold strategy behind Gateway Jax’s $500M+ investment in the urban core

In this week’s episode of Mikes on Mic, we sit down with Bryan Moll, CEO of Gateway Jax, the visionary developer behind one of the most ambitious urban revitalization efforts in Florida. Bryan pulls back the curtain on how he and his team are reimagining downtown Jacksonville—turning overlooked blocks into a dynamic, inclusive destination where business, culture, and community thrive. You'll hear: The bold strategy behind Gateway Jax’s $500M+ investment in the urban core How they're balan...

2 months ago

32 minutes

Mikes on Mic

What's the latest in the development of the Emerald Trail?

Kay Ehas, CEO of Groundwork Jacksonville, is a driving force behind one of the city's most transformative urban renewal projects—the Emerald Trail. With a deep commitment to environmental justice, equitable development, and community engagement, Ehas has led Groundwork Jacksonville in its mission to restore and reconnect the city's urban core through green infrastructure. Under her leadership, the Emerald Trail is taking shape as a 30-mile network of trails, parks, and waterways...

2 months ago

25 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Navigating Jacksonville's Budget: A Political Landscape with David Bauerlein

Jacksonville’s budget battle is heating up — and the stakes are higher than ever. After 3 weeks, we sit sit down with veteran Times-Union reporter David Bauerlein to break down the political tug-of-war shaping the city’s financial future. From proposed property tax cuts to controversial reductions in affordable housing and health services, this conversation dives deep into the growing divide between the mayor's administration and the City Council's Finance Committee. Is public safety...

2 months ago

33 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Who Pays for Progress? Former Mayor John Peyton Weighs In (Best Of Mikes On Mic)

Jacksonville is at a crossroads—tough decisions are being made about the city's future, and they all come with a price tag. From infrastructure and public safety to education and economic development, what should the city prioritize—and more importantly, how will it pay for it? This week on Mikes on Mic, we go over one of our Best Of the Best conversations where we sit down with former Mayor John Peyton, who led Jacksonville through his own era of high-stakes financial decisions. With two t...

2 months ago

28 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Best of Mikes On Mic - How Susie Wiles Shaped American Politics, The Untold Story with Michael Kruse

Today we are revisiting the intriguing world of Susie Wiles, the mastermind behind the success of key Republican campaigns. From her instrumental role in Ron DeSantis's 2018 victory to her critical contributions to Donald Trump's 2020 efforts, uncover how Wiles navigates the complex web of politics with finesse. Journalist Michael Kruse shares exclusive insights from his extensive research, revealing the highs and lows of Wiles's influential career. We explore loyalty, power, and public pe...

3 months ago

33 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Overcoming Racial Challenges: How Sheriff Nathaniel Glover Transformed His Life

In this captivating episode our guest, Nathaniel Glover, shares his powerful and inspirational story. From a traumatic encounter with racism to becoming a sheriff, Nathaniel's journey is filled with resilience, forgiveness, and the pursuit of justice. Tune in as he discusses his experiences with the criminal justice system, his path to law enforcement, and the pivotal moments that shaped his life. Join us as we delve into topics of racial inequality, personal growth, and ...

3 months ago

35 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Developing and reimagining downtown Jacksonville with Gateway Jax CEO Bryan Moll

This week Mikes on Mic sits down with Bryan Moll, the CEO of Gateway Jax. Brian has been at the forefront of transforming downtown Jacksonville into a thriving hub of culture, business, and community. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in revitalizing the area, making it a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and play. In this conversation, Brian shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities that come with urban development. He'll talk about the strategies bein...

3 months ago

32 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Jacksonville’s Parks Under Pressure: Safeguarding Natural Beauty and Historic Sites

Do you love Jacksonville’s parks or wonder how our local green spaces survive under constant pressure from funding cuts and development? Today we sit down with acclaimed Times Union columnist and author Mark Woods for a revealing conversation about the past, present, and future of our treasured parks. Together, they discuss the pivotal roles played by influential figures like Congressman Charlie Bennett and passionate advocates Barbara Goodman and Mark Middlebrook. Mark shares uni...

3 months ago

28 minutes

Mikes on Mic

TA launches the Bay St. Innovation Corridor service

It's said that Jacksonville is a "City on the Move! Well there's no better example of that than JTA's U2C project, a three-phase program revolutionizing public transportation in Jacksonville. Launched on June 30th, the first phase of the project features autonomous shuttles running on Bay St. in downtown Jacksonville between the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center and the sports and entertainment district near the stadium. JTA's CEO, Nat Ford again joins the Mikes to discuss th...

4 months ago

31 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Unpacking the city's $2 Billion proposed 2025-26 annual budget

Welcome to Mikes On Mic — the podcast where Jacksonville talks politics, policy, and the people shaping our city. This week, we’re celebrating our 2nd anniversary with a deep dive into Mayor Donna Deegan’s proposed $2 billion city budget for 2025-26. Joining us is Mike Mendenhall, Associate Editor of JAXToday, to unpack where the money’s going — and what it means for you. We’re talking about the Mayor’s $10 million plan to address homelessness, o...

4 months ago

30 minutes

Mikes on Mic

Inside Jacksonville’s City Council: Mike Gay on Campaign Challenges, Party Divides & Stadium Deal

Welcome to another exciting episode of Mikes on Mic. This week, Councilman Mike Gay. We discuss how he overcame strong opposition and a flood of attack ads to win his campaign. His strong values guided him through a tough race. Join the Mikes as they examine Gay’s lone 'no' vote on Jacksonville's massive $1.4 billion stadium deal. They explore his practical approach to fiscal conservatism and the changes within the city’s Republican Party. Gay also sheds light on local infrastructure proj...

4 months ago

25 minutes