Kingpins and Catalysts
Kingpins and Catalysts
Podcast Description
Kingpins & Catalysts tells the stories of First Coast legends—giants in their fields, people who have left an indelible mark on the city’s identity. In a series of revealing, long-form interviews, First Coast Connect Host Anne Schindler explores the connections between her guests’ personal experiences and their public impact, and how their stories also shaped the story of Jacksonville itself.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on the lives and achievements of influential individuals in Jacksonville, with topics including creativity, justice, and community impact. Episodes showcase the experiences of local legends like Willie Evans Jr., who discusses the challenges in the music industry, and Ann Finnell, who shares her journey as a criminal defense attorney, providing perspectives on pivotal legal cases.
Kingpins & Catalysts tells the stories of First Coast legends—giants in their fields, people who have left an indelible mark on the city’s identity. In a series of revealing, long-form interviews, First Coast Connect Host Anne Schindler explores the connections between her guests’ personal experiences and their public impact, and how their stories also shaped the story of Jacksonville itself.
For decades, Jacksonville knew Ken Amaro as the bow-tied crusader of consumer journalism—the man behind “I’m Telling Ken.” But his behind-the-scenes persona is more nuanced: passionate music fan, volunteer mediator, ordained pastor. Now, he’s taken his advocacy from the world of television into the fishbowl of politics. But does he have more power as a Jacksonville City Councilmember than he did as a reporter?
In this episode, Amaro reflects on his journey, from a childhood in St. Croix to a trusted voice in Jacksonville, exploring how journalism has changed, and the frustrations and realities of working inside the system instead of reporting on it.
Kingpins & Catalysts was executive produced by Letisha Bereola and Anne Schindler. It was directed by Brady Corum and produced by Stacey Bennett, who also composed the music. Graphic design by Bonnie Zerr.
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