Panhandle Pulse

Chuck Asbury

“Real issues. Real people. No filters.” Welcome to Panhandle Pulse — the podcast that gives North Florida a voice. Hosted by Chuck Asbury, Panhandle Pulse dives into the real challenges and real conversations shaping our communities. From small business owners, farmers to veterans, healthcare workers, and defense professionals, we talk with the people who keep our region moving. Every week, we bring you candid interviews, frontline stories, and unfiltered insight on the issues that matter most — including agriculture, national defense, healthcare access, deregulation, and the fight to keep rural America strong.

  1. 8h ago

    How Two Childhood Friends Built Lawless Coast Brewing in Santa Rosa Beach

    What does it take to turn a childhood dream into a thriving craft brewery? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Chris and Josh, the founders of Lawless Coast Brewing Company in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, to discuss their incredible journey from home brewing enthusiasts to brewery owners on Florida's Emerald Coast. The conversation begins with the origins of Lawless Coast Brewing, a dream the two friends first discussed as teenagers before they were even old enough to legally drink beer. Chris and Josh share how a life-changing accident, career frustrations, and a passion for craft beer pushed them to finally pursue the brewery idea years later. They recount their early days brewing beer in a kitchen using simple homebrew kits, learning through trial and error, and producing batches they now laugh about but were once proud to share. Chris and Josh dive deep into the realities of opening a brewery, including navigating construction delays, equipment shortages, county permitting challenges, and the lengthy licensing process that delayed their opening for years. They explain how they continued refining recipes throughout the process, allowing them to launch with a strong lineup of beers once the doors finally opened. The founders discuss how they create unique beer styles, name their brews, and balance creativity with consistency. They also share the stories behind some of their most popular beers, including Triple D, Uncle Ed's Irish-style ale, and several movie-inspired creations that reflect their personalities and sense of humor. Beyond beer, the episode highlights the importance of community involvement and local partnerships. Chris and Josh discuss hosting charity events, supporting local schools, working with organizations like Bed 4 Me and Shelter House, and creating a gathering place where locals and visitors can connect. They explain why they view their brewery as a modern version of a traditional public house—a community hub rather than just a place to grab a drink. Whether you're interested in craft beer, entrepreneurship, small business ownership, or life on Florida's Emerald Coast, this episode offers valuable insights, entertaining stories, and practical lessons about perseverance, friendship, and building something meaningful from the ground up. Topics Covered: • Starting a craft brewery in Florida • Homebrewing and recipe development • Overcoming business and permitting challenges • Craft beer culture and brewing science • Community involvement and charity partnerships • Entrepreneurship and small business growth • Santa Rosa Beach and Walton County development • Future plans for Lawless Coast Brewing Company Follow Lawless Coast Brewing Company: Instagram: @lawless.coast.brewing Facebook: Lawless Coast Brewing Company Subscribe to Panhandle Pulse for more conversations with local business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and the people helping shape the future of Florida's Panhandle. Support the show

    31 min
  2. Jun 10

    Former Green Beret John Frankman on Running for Congress in Florida District 1 | Veterans, Freedom & Conservative Leadership

    In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with John Frankman, former U.S. Army Green Beret, veteran advocate, and Republican candidate for Florida's 1st Congressional District. John shares his journey from military service and Special Forces training to entering the political arena after being affected by the military COVID-19 vaccine mandate. He discusses the challenges of becoming a Green Beret, his faith-driven leadership philosophy, and why he believes Florida's most veteran-dense congressional district needs stronger representation in Washington. Topics covered include: • John Frankman's military background and path to the Green Berets • Life in Northwest Florida and why he chose to make the Panhandle home • The impact of federal government expansion and constitutional concerns • Veterans' healthcare and the push for a VA hospital in the region • Government spending, inflation, and affordability challenges • Medical freedom and accountability in government • Congressional term limits and stock trading reform • Infrastructure, military readiness, and transportation priorities • Campaigning as a grassroots challenger against an incumbent candidate • The role of faith, service, and leadership in public office Whether you're a voter in Florida's 1st Congressional District or simply interested in military service, public policy, and grassroots politics, this conversation provides an in-depth look at the issues shaping the future of Northwest Florida. 🎙️ Listen now to hear John Frankman's vision for veterans, freedom, accountability, and conservative leadership in Congress. Support the show

    33 min
  3. Apr 8

    The Power of Local Stories: Kerri Parker on HWY 331, Filmmaking & Finding Your Voice

    In this episode of Pan Handle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with storyteller, marketer, and creator Kerri Parker—the voice behind Hwy 331—to explore how powerful storytelling can shape and uplift a community. Kerri shares her unique journey from corporate marketing with iconic South Walton brands to building a grassroots media platform that bridges the gap between the north and south sides of Walton County. With a passion for highlighting overlooked communities like DeFuniak Springs and Freeport, she created Hwy 331 as a digital hub featuring stories, podcasts, and local insights that celebrate the people and culture of the Florida Panhandle. The conversation dives deep into her evolution as a creator—from launching a podcast to stepping far outside her comfort zone to produce her first short documentary, The Lake That Built a Town. With no prior filmmaking experience and only 90 days to complete the project, Kerri reveals the challenges, self-doubt, and “delusional confidence” it took to bring the story of Lake DeFuniak to life. Chuck and Kerri also discuss: The importance of storytelling in building emotional connections within a communityHow Hwy 331 is reshaping the narrative beyond the 30A spotlightLessons learned from podcasting, branding, and content creationOvercoming imposter syndrome and rebuilding confidence later in lifePreserving local history for future generations through film and mediaThe real behind-the-scenes work of running a podcast and media brandWhy community pride and positive storytelling matter now more than everKerri also shares insights on supporting local creators, getting started with your own podcast or documentary, and why consistency—not perfection—is the key to success. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about the Florida Panhandle, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a powerful reminder of how stories can connect, preserve, and transform a community. 🎧 Tune in to hear how one idea—bridging a highway—turned into a movement of storytelling, filmmaking, and local impact. https://hwy331.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hwy.331?igsh=MTQ1cW04OHpweXI1cA== The Lake That Built a Town: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33ZRuyrEK8c Support the show

    40 min
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

“Real issues. Real people. No filters.” Welcome to Panhandle Pulse — the podcast that gives North Florida a voice. Hosted by Chuck Asbury, Panhandle Pulse dives into the real challenges and real conversations shaping our communities. From small business owners, farmers to veterans, healthcare workers, and defense professionals, we talk with the people who keep our region moving. Every week, we bring you candid interviews, frontline stories, and unfiltered insight on the issues that matter most — including agriculture, national defense, healthcare access, deregulation, and the fight to keep rural America strong.