Tampa Bay Community Network Unplugged

In this episode of TBCN Unplugged, co-hosts John Casimiro and EJ Moreno go full fan mode as they sit down with local B-movie legend Joel Wynkoop! Known for his over-the-top action roles, DIY filmmaking, and cult following, Joel opens up about his decades-long career as a self-made action hero. From writing, directing, and starring in his own films to selling DVDs with his wife at horror cons and comic book conventions, Joel has bui...

On the Grid – Humane Society of Tampa Bay In this episode of On the Grid, we delve into the compassionate world of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB). Joining us is Regan Blessinger, the organization's Marketing and Content Manager, who brings a wealth of experience in animal welfare and community engagement. Regan shares insights into HSTB's mission to end animal homelessness and the innovative programs they've implemented to ...

🎙️ In this episode of On the Grid, we sit down with Terri Willingham, Executive Director of the Foundation for Community Driven Innovation (FCDI) and Program Manager at AMRoC Fab Lab. Terri shares her journey from healthcare to hands-on innovation, and how she’s helping build equitable access to STEAM education and maker culture in Tampa Bay and beyond. We explore the power of community-driven spaces, the importance of inclusive i...

In this episode of Tampa Bay Community Network Unplugged, host EJ Moreno sits down with Stephanie Mackin and Andy Huse from USF Libraries Special Collections to uncover the hidden treasures housed in the archives. From rare books and historical documents to Tampa Bay’s rich media history, Stephanie and Andy share insights into the unique materials available for researchers, students, and the public. Whether you're a history buff, ...

In this episode of On The Grid, EJ Moreno sits down with Allan Antolik, Deputy Director of Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, to discuss his mission to keep our waterways and communities clean. From his years as a Battalion Chief and Hazardous Materials Response Team Commander in Wisconsin to captaining the Trash Free Waters boat in Tampa Bay, Allan brings a wealth of experience in environmental stewardship. Learn how his team tackles pollu...

In this episode of TBCN Unplugged, we sit down with EJ Moreno, a YouTube movie critic and celebrity interviewer, to discuss his journey from graduating with a film degree at Full Sail University to building a career in online media. EJ shares insights on breaking into the world of film criticism, the challenges of the industry, and what it's like to interview some of Hollywood’s biggest names. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn yo...

How to Make Viral Videos Like Jack Hartmann: Easy Steps for Success -TBCN Unplugged Join us on this episode of TBCN Unplugged as we dive into the incredible story of how Jeremiah Johnson helped Jack Hartmann's video skyrocket to a million views. We'll uncover the strategies, insights, and secrets behind this viral success. Discover how you can apply these techniques to your own content and achieve similar results. Don't miss this e...

Join host EJ Moreno on On the Grid as we sit down with the legendary Jack Hartmann, a name synonymous with children's educational music. With over 1,500 music videos under his belt and more than a billion views on YouTube, Jack has captured the hearts of children, parents, and educators worldwide. In this episode, Jack shares his incredible journey—from his early days as a songwriter and social worker to becoming a top YouTuber and...

In this episode, we chat with Nora Paine, Producing Artistic Director of New Tampa Players, about her journey in community theater and her mission to make the arts accessible to all. With over 50 productions under her belt and a passion for inclusivity, Nora shares how NTP is transforming lives through programs like the Penguin Project, empowering children and young adults with special needs. Discover how she’s fostering creativity...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Luis Viera, Tampa City Council Member! Get the inside scoop on the issues that matter most to our community as Councilman Viera discusses key initiatives, challenges, and future goals for Tampa. From city growth to public safety and everything in between, you won’t want to miss this chance to hear directly from one of our local leaders. Tune in, get informed, and be inspired to make a dif...

Join host Becky Yettaw on "Talk to Your Government" as she sits down with Bill Carlson, a dedicated member of the Tampa City Council, to discuss the heart and soul of our city. In this engaging interview, Carlson shares his insights on the importance of investing in the people of our region, prioritizing arts and culture, and nurturing the identity that makes Tampa truly unique. Discover how Carlson's vision for Tampa extends beyon...

Craig Powell is the founder and Executive Coordinator of PowerNet, a nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida. PowerNet focuses on helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration, with a strong emphasis on reducing recidivism and promoting psychosocial rehabilitation. Powell has overseen the development of PowerNet's Reentry Information Management System (RIMS), a tool designed to streamline the coordination ...

Junior Polo is an artist from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, now based in Tampa Bay. His work is heavily influenced by his Caribbean heritage and his passion for helping young people. Polo is known for working in multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, and pottery. His art often incorporates vibrant colors and reflects his love of Haitian culture.

He is also deeply involved in charitable work, especially with youth, and has a back...

Unlock the Secrets of DNA Testing in Tampa with Brian Crocker | DNA Testing Solutions Join host EJ Moreno and dive deep into the fascinating world of DNA testing right here in Tampa! In this episode of "On the Grid," we sit down with Brian Crocker, the visionary behind DNA Testing Solutions, to explore the rich history and evolution of DNA testing in our vibrant city. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped the trajectory of DNA t...

In this special episode of On the Grid, host EJ Moreno chats with Laura Langfield and Patti Tilchin from Tampa Bay Strays, a local animal rescue group dedicated to saving and rehoming stray animals across the Tampa Bay area. Discover the incredible work they're doing to give abandoned pets a second chance and how the community can play a part in supporting their mission. Tune in for touching rescue stories, the importance of foster...

Nicole Persley is an artist and real estate investor based in Tampa, Florida. She discovered significant family history during her research, learning that her grandfather was African American, a revelation that deeply influenced her personal identity and artistic journey. Persley's great-uncle, Louis Persley, was Georgia's first registered Black architect, known for his contributions to Tuskegee University. Nicole's exploration of ...

In this episode of “On The Grid”, host EJ Moreno sits down with the remarkable Tian Liu, the visionary founder of Tigertail Pictures and the mastermind behind the inaugural Tigertail Asian Film Festival in Tampa. Tian Liu is an acclaimed Chinese cinematographer, photographer, and entrepreneur who has worked on over 40 film projects and collaborated with high-profile clients like Maggie Q, Gal Gadot, and Coldplay. At just 25, one of...

Mike Cutolo – TV Production, Music, and Beyond

In this episode, we chat with Mike Cutolo, an experienced independent producer and former Senior Production Manager at Spectrum Communications. With over 20 years of TV production experience, Mike led teams that delivered high-quality live and postproduction news and sports content. He shares stories from his time at Spectrum, Bright House Sports Network, and Bay News 9, where he manag...