Panhandle Pulse

Chuck Asbury
  • 5.0 (14)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

“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. 1D AGO

    Inside North Bay Cigars: Live Cigar Rolling, Weddings & Boutique Cigars in the Florida Panhandle

    In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Buzz Conroy, founder of North Bay Cigars. Buzz shares his journey from his very first cigar after a concert to mastering the Cuban rolling technique and building a thriving live cigar rolling business across the Florida Panhandle. Learn how boutique cigars are crafted, why live cigar rolling has become a standout experience for weddings, bachelor parties, and private events, and what sets this growing niche apart. Buzz also breaks down beginner-friendly cigar tips—from choosing the right blend and flavor profile to properly storing cigars in a humidor. Whether you’re new to cigars or a longtime enthusiast, this episode dives into the culture, craftsmanship, and community behind cigars—plus a look ahead at plans for a future cigar lounge in Northwest Florida. Follow and connect with North Bay Cigars: • Website: northbaycigar.com • Instagram: @northbaycigar • Facebook: North Bay Cigar Support the show

    35 min

  2. APR 29

    Building Palm Folly: How Meaghan Easterhouse Went All-In on a Craft Seltzer Brand

    Palm Folly Founder Meaghan Easterhouse on Building a Craft Hard Seltzer Brand on Florida’s Emerald Coast | Panhandle Pulse Podcast Podcast Description: In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck sits down with Meaghan Easterhouse, founder of Palm Folly, a fast-growing craft hard seltzer brand born on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Meaghan shares her unconventional journey from military upbringing and global travels to nursing, nonprofit work, and ultimately launching her own beverage company. Hear how she went all-in on entrepreneurship—despite having zero brewing experience—to create a unique, fruit-forward, draft-ready hard seltzer designed to elevate the category. Meaghan opens up about the real challenges behind building a brand: closing her brick-and-mortar taproom, navigating distribution, finding the right production partners, and learning tough lessons along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a local business owner, or just curious about the craft beverage industry, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice. Follow Palm Folly on Instagram and stay tuned for new flavor releases as the brand continues to expand across Florida and beyond. Support the show

    37 min

  3. APR 15

    Inside Florida’s Future: GOP candidate for governor Paul Renner on Taxes, Insurance, AI & vision for the state.

    What does the future of Florida look like? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Paul Renner—former Speaker of the Florida House, Navy veteran, and current GOP candidate for governor—to break it all down. Renner shares his background growing up in Jacksonville, his 20-year military career, and the leadership lessons he learned serving in both the Gulf War and Afghanistan. From there, we dive into his run for governor and what sets him apart from other candidates. We cover major issues facing Florida today, including: His plan to eliminate property taxes for most homeownersSolutions to rising insurance costsFixing housing affordability and out-of-state investment pressuresInfrastructure challenges across the PanhandleThe role of AI, data centers, and protecting kids onlineRenner also discusses his “Florida First” approach, focusing on economic growth, small businesses, and keeping the state affordable while managing rapid population growth. Whether you're a Florida resident, business owner, or just following the governor’s race, this episode gives you a clear look at the policies and priorities shaping the state’s future. https://voterenner.com/ https://www.instagram.com/paulmrenner/ https://www.facebook.com/RepPaulRenner https://x.com/Paul_Renner Support the show

    36 min

  4. APR 15

    Tony Carder on Entrepreneurship, Faith, and Building TruNorth Pest Control on the Florida Panhandle

    In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck Asbury sits down with Tony Carder, a seasoned entrepreneur who previously built and sold one of the top pest control companies in Georgia before starting a new venture, TruNorth Pest Control, right here in Florida. Tony dives into what really fueled his success—not just smart business decisions, but a strong emphasis on relationships, exceptional customer service, faith, leadership, and deep community involvement. Now based along the Emerald Coast, he’s applying those same principles to grow his new company while building a meaningful life in the Panhandle. This episode also explores: How Tony approached scaling and eventually selling his first companyHis perspective on business acquisitions and long-term growthThe importance of mentoring young people and developing future leadersWhat it takes to build a brand from the ground up in a competitive marketIt’s a great listen if you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or someone interested in the culture and growth of the 30A and Emerald Coast area. https://trunorthpest.com/ https://www.facebook.com/trunorthpest/ https://www.instagram.com/trunorth.pest/ Support the show

    41 min

  5. 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

  6. APR 1

    From Rock Bottom to Redemption | Derek Asher’s The Skateboarding Barber Journey

    In this powerful episode of Panhandle Pulse, Derek Asher opens up about his raw journey from a troubled past in California—marked by jail time, addiction, and setbacks—to rebuilding his life through faith, resilience, and creativity. Now a barber and entrepreneur on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Derek shares how skateboarding shaped his mindset, how he turned a viral haircut into community impact, and what it takes to start over with purpose. Discover how he built his brand as the “Skateboarding Barber,” navigated failures, and found meaning through giving back, mentoring youth, and creating authentic connections. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone chasing growth, second chances, and a better future. Derrick Asher Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskateboardingbarber?igsh=MWlmNXRlM3FucTd6dQ== Support the show

    39 min

  7. MAR 25

    Living on Florida’s Emerald Coast: Real Estate, & 30A Lifestyle with Ron Hefner

    In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with local real estate broker Ron Hefner to talk about what makes Florida’s Emerald Coast one of the most desirable places to live in the country. From the white-sand beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, and Destin, to the growing communities around the bay, Ron shares firsthand insight into the real estate market, lifestyle, and the rapid growth happening across the Florida Panhandle. Ron also shares his unique origin story — how breaking up a bar argument at the famous Red Bar in Grayton Beachunexpectedly led him into a 15-year real estate career that’s helped hundreds of buyers relocate to the area. In this conversation, they discuss: • Why so many people are relocating from the Midwest and major cities • The unique lifestyle of living along Florida’s Emerald Coast • Real estate trends in Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Freeport, and Destin • The difference between rental communities and full-time neighborhoods • What buyers need to know about Florida insurance and hurricane preparedness • The future of development and housing affordability in the Panhandle • Hidden local gems, restaurants, and outdoor activities • The truth about living near the beach year-round They also dive into how the area has evolved from a vacation destination into a thriving year-round community with growing schools, infrastructure, and family life. Whether you're thinking about moving to Florida, investing in beach real estate, or simply love the lifestyle of the Gulf Coast, this episode provides an inside look at the opportunities and challenges shaping the Florida Panhandle today. If you’ve ever dreamed of living near crystal-clear water and sugar-white sand, this conversation will give you a realistic perspective on what life here is really like. Connect with Ron: https://linktr.ee/RonHefner?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=4e6e5fd2-16e1-4a9f-be92-fbed935f5181 Support the show

    33 min

  8. MAR 18

    Reviving a Church & Serving the Community | Pastor Charles Wilson

    In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, host Chuck Asbury sits down with Pastor Charles Wilson of The Chapel at Crosspoint in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida for an inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, and community impact in the Florida Panhandle. Pastor Wilson shares the incredible story of how a struggling church with just eight members transformed into a thriving congregation that now supports multiple ministries and nonprofit organizations across the region. What began as a mission to help close a small church turned into a powerful example of faith, perseverance, and community service. Throughout the conversation, Pastor Wilson and Chuck discuss: • The history of the church dating back more than 70 years in South Walton • How The Chapel at Crosspoint helped launch several other churches in the area • Supporting local nonprofits providing food, medical, and dental care • The importance of churches working together across denominations • The role faith plays in building stronger communities • Disaster relief and the vision for a future community support facility • Challenges facing the Florida Panhandle including workforce shortages, housing affordability, and infrastructure growth Pastor Wilson also reflects on his unconventional journey into ministry, his passion for theology and community service, and why helping others has become the most fulfilling work of his life. If you're interested in faith, leadership, community development, nonprofit work, or the future of Florida’s Panhandle, this episode offers meaningful insight and inspiration. 🎙 Panhandle Pulse is the podcast that explores real issues, real conversations, and the people shaping the Florida Panhandle. Subscribe for more conversations with local leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Support the show

    36 min
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Chuck Asbury
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Panhandle Pulse
  • Show Website
    Panhandle Pulse