The Palm Beach Current

Chris Moody
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

What really makes the Palm Beaches tick, and who's pulling the strings behind the curtain? What stories are being whispered, but never told?Welcome to The Palm Beach Current—your unapologetic guide to the people, businesses, and bold ideas that fuel life between Palm Beach Island and Tequesta.Every episode takes you inside the minds of inspiring entrepreneurs, community voices, and local changemakers shaping the future of this place we call home.Hi, I'm Chris Moody. I've lived everywhere from Hawaii to New England and many places in between, and over the past five years it's been incredible to get to know this area as a resident of the Palm Beaches.By asking thoughtful questions and uncovering untold stories, we'll get to the heart of what truly makes this community thrive.Follow the show and come along with me and my guests as we discover the Palm Beaches in ways you've never heard before.

  1. 2d ago

    Ep. 27 - A Sports Illustrated Writer that Writes, Coaches and Scouts Worldwide

    On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, Chris sits down with Wendell Maxey, a Sports Illustrated reporter, author, basketball coach, scout, and longtime sports writer who recently made Palm Beach his new home. Wendell discusses his new book, Called for Traveling: 20 Years of Sports Writing from the NBA to Europe and Back Again, a collection of stories from two decades covering basketball, international sports, and some of the biggest names in athletics. He shares how he broke into sports journalism without attending journalism school, his early days covering the New Jersey Nets and New York Knicks, and the experiences that took him from NBA locker rooms to basketball courts across Europe. Wendell also reflects on a memorable encounter with Kobe Bryant, the human stories behind the athletes we turn into larger-than-life figures, and his work scouting and coaching players in Germany. The conversation explores international basketball, passionate European fan bases, the challenges facing American players overseas, and why some of the best sports stories happen far beyond the major arenas. The conversation eventually turns to Wendell's new life in Palm Beach, his love of local sports, the Palm Beach Cardinals, and his fascination with professional wrestling and its storytelling. It's a wide-ranging conversation about sports, journalism, travel, community, and the people behind the stories we love. Called for Traveling is available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook.

  2. 6d ago

    Ep. 26 - Building the Future of Palm Beach County

    On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, Chris sits down with Kelly Smallridge, President and CEO of the Business Development Board of the Palm Beaches, to explore how Palm Beach County has transformed from an economy centered around tourism, real estate, agriculture, and construction into one of the country's emerging hubs for finance, technology, innovation, life sciences, and aviation. Kelly shares her own journey growing up in Palm Beach County and spending nearly four decades with the Business Development Board, where she has played a key role in attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses throughout the region. She explains the foundation that had to be built before Palm Beach County could successfully recruit major companies — from infrastructure and workforce development to education, transportation, and quality of life. The conversation takes a closer look at Wall Street South and how Palm Beach County became an increasingly attractive destination for hedge funds, private equity firms, wealth managers, and other financial services companies. Kelly explains how the strategy began by identifying executives who already owned homes in the area and eventually accelerated as remote work and major financial institutions made it easier to operate outside traditional financial centers. Chris and Kelly also discuss the next chapter for the region, including the push to establish Palm Beach County as a hub for technology, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. Kelly details the ecosystem being built around universities, incubators, venture capital, and companies like D-Wave, and explains why developing a skilled local workforce will be critical to sustaining that growth. Looking ahead, Kelly identifies workforce development and housing as two of the biggest challenges facing Palm Beach County and shares her vision for an economy that continues to grow without sacrificing the character, charm, and quality of life that make the area special. She also highlights the often-overlooked small businesses and workers whose everyday contributions help make Palm Beach County a best-in-class place to live. From Wall Street South and quantum computing to workforce development, entrepreneurship, and the future of Palm Beach County, this episode offers an inside look at who is shaping the region's economy, where it's headed next, and how that growth could impact the people who call the Palm Beaches home.

  3. Aug 11

    Ep. 25 - More Than Money: Building an Ecosystem for Lasting Wealth

    On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, Chris sits down with Michael Simms, Managing Partner of Veracity Advisors, for a wide-ranging conversation about financial planning, tax strategy, entrepreneurship, business valuations, and what it really takes to build a business that can thrive without its owner. Michael shares the personal journey that brought him to Palm Beach County, from his military service and years in corporate healthcare to a major life transition that ultimately led him into wealth management and entrepreneurship. He explains why he and his partner built Veracity Advisors around a client-first philosophy and how their virtual family office model brings together wealth management, tax advisory, risk management, legal resources, and business strategy. The conversation dives deep into tax planning for entrepreneurs, the importance of bringing CPAs into the conversation early, and why financial strategies should be built around a client's actual goals rather than simply selling financial products. Michael also explains how business owners can increase the value of their companies by creating recurring revenue, reducing their personal involvement in day-to-day operations, and preparing for an eventual exit long before they're ready to sell. Beyond finance, Michael discusses the importance of finding purpose after retirement, his work supporting veterans through the Military Appreciation Initiative, his involvement with Palm Beach Gardens' Five-Star Magnet program, and why community involvement can make such a lasting difference. He also shares a deeply personal connection to Quantum House and why he believes the organization deserves more recognition throughout Palm Beach County. From building a more valuable business to planning for taxes, retirement, legacy, and life beyond work, this episode offers practical financial insight alongside a powerful reminder that success is about more than money — it's about creating something meaningful and making an impact in the community around you.

  4. Aug 7

    Ep. 24 - Get to Know Jacob Noble, Judicial Candidate for Palm Beach County Group 12

    On this special election edition of The Palm Beach Current, Chris Moody sits down with Jacob Noble, candidate for Palm Beach County Court Judge, Group 12, ahead of the upcoming election. With more than 20 years of experience as an attorney, over 50 jury trials, appellate experience, and a career spanning criminal and civil law, Noble shares what inspired him to pursue a seat on the bench and why he believes his experience in both the public defender's office and private practice has prepared him to serve as a county court judge. Noble discusses his commitment to an independent and impartial judiciary, what voters should know about the often-overlooked county court system, and the types of cases that come before a county court judge—including landlord-tenant disputes, small claims, misdemeanors, and civil matters. He also explains how he would approach the courtroom, emphasizing dignity, respect, patience, and making sure every person feels heard. The conversation also explores Noble's views on judicial efficiency, access to the courts, the importance of technology like Zoom, and the challenges facing the judicial system. He explains why he sees the county court position as a destination rather than a stepping stone and why he believes judicial decisions should be based solely on the facts and law—not politics, endorsements, or future ambitions. Beyond the campaign, Noble opens up about his personal evolution, his love for the Jupiter Hammerheads and Roger Dean Stadium, and his life as the adoptive parent of two Chihuahuas, Teddy and Wendell. Tune in for an informative conversation designed to help Palm Beach County voters better understand the candidate, the role of county court, and why judicial elections matter.

  5. Aug 4

    Ep. 23 - Preparing for Back to School in Palm Beach County

    What does it really take to support a child's mental health before a crisis begins? On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, host [host name] sits down with Renee Layman, CEO of the Center for Child Counseling, for an important conversation about the growing youth mental health crisis—and why prevention, not just treatment, is the key to healthier families and communities. Renee explains how adverse childhood experiences, social media, screen time, and increasing levels of anxiety are affecting today's children, while offering practical strategies parents can implement immediately. From recognizing the warning signs that a child may need professional support to creating healthier technology habits and building stronger family connections, this episode is filled with actionable advice grounded in decades of experience. The conversation also explores how schools, pediatricians, and communities can work together to identify concerns earlier, the role artificial intelligence may play in expanding access to mental health resources, and why just 15 minutes of undivided attention each day can have a lasting impact on a child's emotional well-being. Whether you're a parent, educator, caregiver, or simply someone who cares about the next generation, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and a fresh perspective on helping children build resilience before challenges become crises.

  6. Jul 28

    Ep. 22 - Why Finding a Property Manager is so Important

    What does it really take to successfully own and manage rental property in one of the country's hottest real estate markets? On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, Chris sits down with Greg Ross-Smith, General Manager of PMI Palm Properties, to unpack the realities of property management in Palm Beach County. Greg shares his unique journey from South Africa to England, Australia, New York, and ultimately Jupiter, Florida, where he now helps property owners protect their investments and achieve true peace of mind. The conversation dives into the growing rental market, why more homeowners are choosing to rent instead of sell, and the biggest misconceptions first-time investors have about owning rental properties. Greg explains the value of professional property management, from emergency maintenance and tenant communication to legal compliance, HomeWatch services for seasonal residents, and strategies that help investors maximize long-term appreciation. You'll also hear expert advice on tenant screening, fair housing laws, underwriting investment properties, and why treating real estate like a business is essential for long-term success. Plus, Greg shares some of his favorite local spots and resources that make Palm Beach County feel like home. Whether you're a seasoned real estate investor, a first-time landlord, or simply curious about the Palm Beach housing market, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you protect your property and grow your investment with confidence.

  7. Jul 21

    Ep. 21 - What Happens to Your Water During a Hurricane?

    As hurricane season approaches, access to clean drinking water becomes one of the most overlooked essentials. On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, host Chris sits down with Jeff Szur, founder and CEO of Altitude Water, to explore how innovative atmospheric water technology is changing the way communities prepare for natural disasters. Jeff shares how Altitude Water's systems create clean, mineralized drinking water directly from the air, providing families, businesses, and disaster relief organizations with water independence when traditional infrastructure fails. From supporting communities in Maui after the wildfires to bringing clean water to villages across Africa and developing hurricane response solutions throughout Florida, Jeff explains the science behind atmospheric water generation and why preparation—not reaction—is the key to staying safe. The conversation also covers practical hurricane preparedness tips, the importance of community during emergencies, the future of sustainable water technology, and how American-made innovation is helping solve one of the world's most critical challenges. Whether you're preparing for storm season, interested in sustainability, or simply curious about the future of clean water, this episode offers an eye-opening look at one of our planet's most valuable resources.

  8. Jul 14

    Ep. 20 - How to Take Your Life to the Next Level and Maybe Even Buy Some Coffee

    What does success really look like? According to leadership coach and Jupiter Coffee owner Vince Mahtani, it's not about titles, status, or material success—it's about becoming the best version of yourself and making a positive impact on the people around you. On this episode of The Palm Beach Current, Vince shares his remarkable journey from dreaming of living in Jupiter as a teenager to building a life centered on purpose, family, faith, and service. He and host Chris explore the difference between coaching and therapy, why so many professionals struggle with identity and burnout, and how redefining success can transform your relationships, career, and personal fulfillment. The conversation also dives into Vince's entrepreneurial path with Jupiter Coffee, his passion for helping leaders, husbands, fathers, and business owners find clarity, and why small, intentional changes can create extraordinary results over time. Whether you're feeling stuck in your career, searching for greater purpose, building a business, or simply looking for inspiration to live more intentionally, this episode offers practical wisdom and a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to lead a meaningful life.

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About

What really makes the Palm Beaches tick, and who's pulling the strings behind the curtain? What stories are being whispered, but never told?Welcome to The Palm Beach Current—your unapologetic guide to the people, businesses, and bold ideas that fuel life between Palm Beach Island and Tequesta.Every episode takes you inside the minds of inspiring entrepreneurs, community voices, and local changemakers shaping the future of this place we call home.Hi, I'm Chris Moody. I've lived everywhere from Hawaii to New England and many places in between, and over the past five years it's been incredible to get to know this area as a resident of the Palm Beaches.By asking thoughtful questions and uncovering untold stories, we'll get to the heart of what truly makes this community thrive.Follow the show and come along with me and my guests as we discover the Palm Beaches in ways you've never heard before.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Moody
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    The Palm Beach Current