What does it take to build a business from a single tire shop into a company that grows to 1,300 locations across 32 states? In this episode of Panhandle Pulse, Chuck sits down with entrepreneur and business leader Joe Tomarchio to uncover the timeless leadership principles that helped him build, scale, and eventually sell one of the nation's most successful automotive service businesses.

Joe shares the incredible story of launching his first business at just 14 years old, growing it into 26 full-service tire and auto centers, and selling the company before leading acquisitions that expanded Monroe's footprint from 550 stores to 1,300 locations nationwide. Along the way, he reveals the business philosophies that transformed employees into leaders and customers into lifelong advocates.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

• How Joe started his first business as a teenager and built a multimillion-dollar company.
• The Four Pillars of Successful Hiring: attitude, enthusiasm, work ethic, and moral compass.
• Why paying employees more can dramatically improve retention and company culture.
• The importance of building a customer-first organization instead of chasing short-term profits.
• How exceptional customer service creates lifelong loyalty and organic word-of-mouth marketing.
• Leadership lessons on hiring, accountability, company culture, and motivating teams.
• Why entrepreneurs should focus on mastering one business before chasing multiple opportunities.
• The mindset required to overcome fear, uncertainty, and the challenges of starting a business.
• Why your spouse, family, and support system can determine entrepreneurial success.
• Joe's thoughts on Florida's business climate, taxes, insurance, economic growth, and opportunities for entrepreneurs.
• His personal mantra for success that has guided him throughout more than five decades in business.

Whether you're launching your first startup, growing a small business, leading a team, or simply looking for practical leadership advice, this episode is packed with real-world lessons from someone who has spent over 50 years building successful companies and developing winning teams.

If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, executive, manager, or anyone passionate about leadership and customer service, this conversation delivers actionable insights you can apply immediately.

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Welcome back to the Panhandle Pulse! This week, host Chuck Asbury sits down with native Floridian, combat veteran, and grit-infused fiction author Jared Maxwell for an unfiltered look at what it truly means to stare down chaos—and live to write about it.

Growing up with parents in the entertainment industry, Jared always had a knack for storytelling. But before he ever picked up a pen professionally, he answered the call of duty following 9/11. What followed was a decorated military career spanning nine years, three deployments, and 35 months in heavy combat.

In this episode, Jared opens up about:

• The Baptism by Fire: From jumping out of airplanes with the 82nd Airborne to the initial push into Fallujah, Iraq.
• Surviving the Corngal Valley: Living out of remote outposts in Afghanistan, navigating brutal mountain terrain, and surviving nearly 200 daily firefights in one of the most dangerous sectors on earth.
• From the Frontlines to the Thin Blue Line: Turning the page to an 11-year career in law enforcement, navigating the grit and politics of modern policing, and dealing with PTSD.
• Pioneering "Florida Noir": How real-life combat skills and wild "Florida Man" police encounters birthed his viral new crime epic, Code of Vengeance, and how he successfully mastered the brutal world of indie self-publishing.

Whether you are a fan of military history, true-to-life tactical thrillers, or just love a raw, honest look at human resilience, this conversation is one you don't want to miss.

Connect with Jared Maxwell:

• Find his books (Code of Vengeance) on Amazon and Goodreads by searching "Jared Maxwell".

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoyed the show!

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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.

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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.

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In this episode of the Panhandle Pulse Podcast, host Chuck Asbury welcomes entrepreneur and wellness lifestyle coach Jody Morgan for an inspiring conversation about gut health, functional medicine, clean living, and holistic wellness. Jody shares her personal journey after her daughter’s health crisis led her to discover root-cause healing, lifestyle changes, supplements, and nutrition strategies that transformed her family’s health.

From gluten sensitivity and inflammation to probiotics, supplements, mental wellness, and toxin-free living, this episode dives deep into practical ways people can improve their health naturally. Jody also discusses the importance of community on Florida’s Emerald Coast, navigating modern health challenges, and why proactive wellness matters more than ever.

If you’re interested in functional medicine, healthy living, gut healing, or making small lifestyle changes that create lasting results, this episode is packed with valuable insights and real-life experiences.

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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

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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.

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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 homeowners
• Solutions to rising insurance costs
• Fixing housing affordability and out-of-state investment pressures
• Infrastructure challenges across the Panhandle
• The role of AI, data centers, and protecting kids online

Renner 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

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