Discover Ocala

Showcase Properties of Central Florida

Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida. Discover Ocala focuses on what makes Ocala and the surrounding area a unique community with plenty to offer residents year-round. Our podcast goes in-depth on different organizations, charities, events, and efforts that shape our every day life for the better, all based right here in Central Florida.

  1. May 12

    Episode 32: Braver Angels

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by guests Buddy Oswald and Greg Harrell of the Marion County Braver Angels, a national organization dedicated to reducing political polarization and strengthening civic conversation across America. Founded on the belief that Americans don’t have to agree on everything to work together, Braver Angels creates opportunities for people with differing viewpoints to engage in respectful dialogue, listen with curiosity, and better understand one another. Through workshops, debates, and community discussions, the organization encourages healthier conversations in an increasingly divided world. Buddy and Greg share how the Marion County chapter is helping foster those conversations locally, why civil discourse matters, and how individuals from all backgrounds can participate in creating stronger community connections—even when opinions differ. Rather than focusing on changing minds, Braver Angels focuses on rebuilding trust, encouraging empathy, and reminding people that disagreement doesn’t have to lead to division. Whether you're deeply engaged in civic issues or simply looking for ways to have more meaningful conversations, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how communities can grow stronger through understanding and respectful dialogue. --  🔗 Learn more about Braver Angels: https://braverangels.org/ 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida Helping you Love Where You Live | https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com

    15 min

  2. Apr 13

    Episode 31: Interfaith Emergency Services & the 10th Annual High Tea

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Karla Grimsley-Greenway, CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services (IES), to spotlight the organization’s impact in Marion County and take a deeper look at one of their most beloved annual events—the 10th Annual High Tea. IES serves as a critical safety net in the community, offering programs that provide food, clothing, job support, medical care, and emergency financial assistance. But beyond the day-to-day services, events like the High Tea play a vital role in sustaining and expanding that mission. The High Tea is more than just a fundraiser—it’s an elegant, community-centered experience designed to bring people together in support of neighbors in need. Guests can expect a beautifully curated afternoon featuring tea service, light fare, and a welcoming, thoughtfully styled atmosphere, all while raising awareness and support for the work IES does year-round. Karla shares how the event has grown over the past decade, why it resonates so strongly with attendees, and how community involvement through events like this directly impacts the lives of those IES serves. Whether you're interested in attending, supporting the cause, or simply learning more about how local organizations are making a difference, this episode offers a meaningful look at the power of community connection. -- 🎀 Learn more about Interfaith Emergency Services: https://www.iesmarion.org/ourprograms ☕ Details on the 10th Annual High Tea: https://www.iesmarion.org/high-tea 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida Helping you Love Where You Live | https://www.ShowcaseOcala.com

    14 min

  3. Mar 17

    Episode 30: Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Jon Tyler, owner of Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe, to explore one of Ocala’s most unique and community-driven gathering spaces. More than just a game shop, Meeple Movers is a board game café experience offering a welcoming environment where friends, families, and newcomers alike can unplug, connect, and play. With a vast library of tabletop games, community events, guided gameplay, and a full menu of food and drinks, the café creates a space where everyone can feel comfortable learning something new or rediscovering old favorites.  Jon shares the story behind launching Meeple Movers, the inspiration for creating a space centered around connection and creativity, and how tabletop gaming continues to bring people together in meaningful ways. From casual game nights to organized events like trivia, RPG sessions, and themed gatherings, the café has quickly become a hub for fun and community in Ocala.  Whether you're a lifelong gamer or just looking for a new way to spend time with friends, this episode highlights how a simple idea– gathering around a table– can create lasting connections. --- 🎲 Learn more about Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe: meeplemovers.com 🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida Helping you Love Where You Live | ShowcaseOcala.com

    13 min

  4. Feb 18

    Episode 29: UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey sits down with Jim Boyer, Director of Research Operations at the University of Florida IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra, to explore one of North Central Florida’s most impactful research facilities. Spanning 1,100 acres along the southern shores of Orange Lake, the Plant Science Research and Education Unit supports research on more than 140 agricultural commodities and works with nearly 100 UF faculty members annually. From blueberries and peanuts to turf grass, flowers, and even cold-tolerant coffee, the work happening in Citra helps farmers stay sustainable, profitable, and prepared for the future!  Jim shares how plant breeding plays a critical role in feeding a growing global population, how new technologies are improving water use and soil health, and how partnerships with Extension offices across Florida ensure research makes its way directly to farmers and homeowners.  Beyond research, the unit supports food security by donating harvested produce to local food banks and UF’s Field & Fork Pantry, ensuring its work benefits both local communities and producers across the state. The facility also hosts more than 100 tours each year and participates in community events like Farm City Week, offering the public a chance to see agricultural innovation firsthand. Whether you’re curious about the future of food, plant breeding breakthroughs, or the science behind what grows in your own backyard, this episode offers an inside look at how Marion County and UF are helping shape agriculture for generations to come. -- 🌱 Learn more about the UF/IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit at their website: wwww.plantscienceunit.ifas.ufl.edu 🎧 Listen to more episodes:  ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida  Helping you Love Where You Live | ShowcaseOcala.com

    18 min

  5. Jan 20

    Episode 28: The Florida Horse Park

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jason Reynolds, Executive Director, and Kim Van Der Walt, Director of Events & Sponsorships, from the Florida Horse Park—a premier 500-acre facility at the heart of Florida’s equestrian landscape. Situated along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the Florida Horse Park is a year-round venue that serves all breeds and disciplines, while also offering space for community events, ag education, training, and more. From international competitions to grassroots fundraisers, the park reflects the values of both performance and public service. Jason and Kim share how the Horse Park continues to grow as a community-focused venue, offering free access to most events and even emergency stabling during hurricanes. With cutting-edge facilities and a passion for accessibility, the Florida Horse Park is helping shape the future of equestrian sport and ag outreach in Marion County and beyond. Whether you're a rider, a community supporter, or just curious about Ocala’s equine heritage, this episode offers a glimpse into one of the state’s most dynamic and welcoming venues! --- 🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit the Event Calendar 🔗 Discover more about the Florida Horse Park | Visit the Website 🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

    16 min

  6. 10/31/2025

    Episode 27: Marion County Farm City Week

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Jacob Dorland, Campus Manager at the College of Central Florida’s Vintage Farm, to highlight the upcoming Marion County Farm City Week, taking place November 15–22, 2025. Started in 1955 and observed nationwide the week before Thanksgiving, Farm City Week honors the essential partnerships between farmers, consumers, community leaders, and everyone in between.  Jacob shares how Marion County brings this tradition to life through a full week of community events focused on education, appreciation, and agriculture—with CF’s Vintage Farm playing a central role in connecting students and residents with the land and local food systems. 📅 Highlighted Events Include: 🐴 Vintage Farm Field Day Monday, Nov. 17 | 2–6 PM – Explore CF’s equine and ag programs with demos, networking, and a farm tour 🌱 Plant Science Research & Education Unit Open House Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 9 AM–12 PM – Farm tours, ag exhibits, and kids’ activities in Citra 🎖️ Ag Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, Nov. 20 | 6 PM – Celebrate local ag leaders (sponsorships available) 📸 Photo Contest, Scavenger Hunt, Proclamation & More Follow Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook for full details.Farm City Week isn’t just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to build understanding and gratitude for the people and systems that make our food and communities strong. --- 🔗 More info and full event calendar: Visit Marion County Farm City Week on Facebook 🎧 Listen to more episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

    14 min

  7. 09/16/2025

    Episode 26: The Ocala Graded Bull Sale with Caitlin Justesen

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey is joined by Caitlin Justesen, Livestock Agent with UF/IFAS Extension, Marion County, to discuss the 70th Annual Ocala Graded Bull Sale—a long-standing event that supports Florida’s cattle industry and connects producers across the region. Caitlin shares how the sale helps improve herd quality, fosters strong community relationships, and ties into the broader mission of UF/IFAS Extension and the Marion County Cattleman's Association: to provide education and support to local ranchers and ag professionals. Bulls are graded and scored before the sale to help buyers make informed decisions, and the event features bulls from multiple breeds and regions. It’s more than just a sale—it’s a cornerstone of Ocala’s agricultural calendar. 📅 Event Details 70th Annual Ocala Graded Bull Sale 📍 Southeastern Livestock Pavilion 🔍 Grading: Monday, October 13 at 8 AM (open to the public) 💼 Sale: Tuesday, October 14 at 1 PM 🌐 Details: www.OcalaBullSale.com Whether you’re part of the ag community or just want to learn more about the people and programs shaping Marion County’s rural roots, this episode offers a thoughtful look at a vital tradition. --- 🎧 More episodes: ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida | ShowcaseOcala.com

    15 min

  8. 08/18/2025

    Episode 25: Leadership Ocala Metro (LOM)

    In this episode of Discover Ocala, host Valerie Dailey welcomes Tamara Fleischhaker, Interim CEO and Chief eXperience Officer of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), for an inside look at the Leadership Ocala Metro (LOM) program. Now in its 39th class, this nine-month immersive experience is designed for imminent leader– those already on a leadership trajectory– who are ready to deepen their understanding of the Ocala Metro area while sharpening their personal and professional skills. Participants take part in monthly sessions from September to May, including leadership simulations like Simulated Society (SimSoc), ropes courses, visits to local organizations and businesses, and discussions on key community issues. The goal? To cultivate a network of leaders who don’t just graduate, but reinvest in the community and help drive future growth in Marion County. The CEP also extends its leadership ecosystem through:  • Leadership Ocala Metro Youth  • Young Professionals Ocala (YPO)  • Leadership Alumni Network As Tamara shares in the episode: “You don’t graduate from leadership—you graduate into it.” --  🔗 Learn More About Our Guests: 👉 Ocala Leadership Metro: ocalacep.com/programs/leadership-opportunities 🌐 Learn more about the CEP: ocalacep.com/ 🎧 To learn more about Discover Ocala, watch the video companion of this episode, or listen to older episodes, visit our website at: www.ShowcaseOcala.com/DiscoverOcalaPod 🏡 Discover Ocala is presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida.  For over two decades, Showcase has helped customers throughout the Central Florida region achieve their unique real estate goals. You can learn more about Showcase at: www.showcaseocala.com

    16 min
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About

Presented by Showcase Properties of Central Florida. Discover Ocala focuses on what makes Ocala and the surrounding area a unique community with plenty to offer residents year-round. Our podcast goes in-depth on different organizations, charities, events, and efforts that shape our every day life for the better, all based right here in Central Florida.

Information

  • Creator
    Showcase Properties of Central Florida
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Discover Ocala
  • Show Website
    Discover Ocala