321 Lift Off 2020 Podcast's
Please enjoy our tourism podcast!
Each week we will discuss all the exciting news about what is happening in the beautiful Space Coast!
Download our 321 Lift Off Podcast in your favorite podcast app or click on the episode links below
Episode 31 - Christmas Special. Memories from the past and hopes for the future.
The Cast and Crew of the 321 Lift Off Podcast wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
In this episode, we talk about some of our favorite personal holiday memories and our hopes for a great future.
Episode 30 - Lisa Packard, Executive Director of the Eau Gallie Arts District
Hello and Welcome to 321 Lift Off! Today, the crew is joined by Lisa Packard, who is the Director of the Eau Gallie Arts District. Lisa discusses how she became Director of the Eau Gallie Arts District and what her role was. She also explains to our audience the EGAD (Eau Gallie Art District) role in the history of the area. The special events in the area and the murals are quite an attraction to see. Plan your next trip to the Space Coast on Space Coast Fun Guide.com!
Episode 29 - Rob Varley, Former Director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism
Hello and Welcome to 321 Lift Off! Today, we are live at the Beachside Hotel & Suites located in beautiful Cocoa Beach, Florida. We are joined by Rob Varley, who is the Former Director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism and is now a nature photographer. We learn about Rob's history and background with the Space Coast Office of Tourism. We discover that Rob helped coin the name "Space Coast Fun Guide". Rob also tells us some interesting stories about his time as the Previous Director of The Space Coast Office of Tourism. Listen and enjoy!
Episode 28 - Mike Schwarz & Rich Hensel, Owners of Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill
Join the crew of the 321 Lift Off Podcast as they film live from Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill in Port Canaveral! We are joined by the owners of Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill, Mike Schwarz and Rich Hensel. We learn the role of Mike and Rich and how they run this fantastic restaurant. Mike and Rich also discuss how Covid-19 has changed some of its protocols. Fishlips is an awesome location to view a launch, watch football, watch sea life and watch live shows. We will see you here next time, until then, enjoy this podcast!
Episode 27 - Jeremy Edgar, Owner of Fin Expeditions Kayak Tours
Welcome to 321 Lift Off! Today, The crew is joined by Jeremy Edgar, who owns and operates Fin Expeditions. Fin Expeditions provides an amazing kayak tour that shows people the great scenery of the area. We learn about Jeremy's role with Fin Expeditions and his passion for the water. Jeremy tells us about some of the tours they offer and how beautiful the bioluminescence is.
If you are looking for something FUN to do on the Space Coast of Florida. Consider a kayak tour with Fin Expeditions. Tell Jeremy the 321 Lift Off Podcast sent you.
Be sure to find your money-saving coupon on www.spacecoastfunguide.com
Episode 26 - Kathy Engerran, Interim Director for the Brevard Cultural Alliance
Welcome to 321 Lift Off Today, The crew talk with Kathy Engerran who is the interim director for the Brevard Cultural Alliance. We discuss Kathy's role as interim director. We learn about the role of the BCA and their partnership with the Space Coast Fun Guide. We learn how Covid has affected their marketing. We also learn about special events coming up.
The Space Coast has so much more than amazing beaches and the Space Program and Kathy did an amazing job telling our listeners all about the Arts and Culture on the Space Coast.
Episode 25 - Shannon Stanley General Manager Merritt Square Mall
Hello and Welcome to 321 Lift Off! Today, the crew is joined by Shannon Stanley, who is the General Manager of Merritt Square Mall. We learn the Role of Shannon as the General Manager. Shannon discusses how Covid has affected their marketing for the mall. We also learn about some of the holiday events and special vendors during the holiday season. If you're looking to spend a whole day at a great value, come to the movie theater on "Terrific Tuesday" where you can see a movie for only $5.00!!!
Episode 24 - Space Coast Office of Tourism Marketing Director Charity Stewart
Hello and welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today the crew is joined by Charity Stewart, who is the Marketing Director for the Space Coast Office of Tourism. We learn about Charity's role as Marketing Director. She discusses how Covid has affected marketing and what changes they have implemented. We learn about one of their recovery campaigns which were called "There's Space For You Here". We also learn about some of the fantastic destinations Charity loves to go to and spend her time at when she's not working.
This episode is jam-packed with information on things to do when you come to the beautiful Space Coast of Florida. Make your plans to join us now.
For more information on things to do, places to eat, and all of the area events please visit the Space Coast Office of Tourism's website: www.visitspacecoast.com.
To watch this weeks episode on YouTube please click here: https://youtu.be/C79InHNNiTg
Episode 23 - Cocoa Beach Trolley with the team from Space Coast Area Transit
Hello and welcome to another episode of the 321 Lift Off Podcast. Today, the crew is joined by Wendy Ellis who is the President and Creative Director of Space Coast Advertising, and Lance Parker who is the Manager of Operations and Maintenance for Space Coast Area Transit. They discuss the brand new Cocoa Beach Trolley and the 10 days of Trolley kick-off event. This new Trolley is going to be a great asset to allow both visitors and locals alike to get around Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach. If you are looking for FUN THINGS TO DO in Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral, the new trolley can help you get there. There will be plenty of stops along the way at different places to eat and places for fun here on the beautiful Space Coast of Florida.
You can view the video of this week's podcast on YouTube at this link: https://youtu.be/VPJWnNoSngc
Episode 22 - Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar Port Canaveral
Hello and welcome to another episode of the 321 Lift Off Podcast! Today, the crew are sitting dockside at Rusty's Seafood and Oyster Bar. We are joined by Rusty and Rhett Fischer who own the bar. Rusty and Rhett discuss the origin of the bar and both of their roles. We learn about Bernard Surf and the great astronaut dinners. They discuss some of their signature dishes and what to order as well. Plus, don't forget about the daily live entertainment.
If you are looking for things to do or places to eat in the Port Canaveral or Cocoa Beach area, be sure to head over to Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar. Be sure to find your coupon on SpaceCoastFunGuide.com.
Episode 21 - Grand Re-Opening of the Valiant Air Command
Welcome to another episode of 321 Liftoff! Today the crew are live at the grand re-opening of the Valiant Air Command. We talk with many prominent members of the community as they discuss the impact of the Valiant Air Command and the history that the museum offers.
You can watch the video of this podcast on Youtube at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=1r2GROfcisk
321 Lift Off is brought to you by Belden Communications who produce the Space Coast Fun Guide. The Space Coast Fun Guide is your guide to all of the Fun Things To Do on the Space Coast including Titusville, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, and Palm Bay. If you are looking for attractions, restaurants, and places to shop in our area, check out SpaceCoastFunGuide.com.
About the Valiant Air Command:
Founded in 1977 by a group of aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and pilots, The Valiant Air Command, Inc. has grown over the past 43 years from a handful of aircraft to a continually expanding collection of over 50 historic warbirds from the beginnings of aviation to the present day. The Valiant Air Command, Inc. is a 501c(3) educational organization dedicated to the preservation of, education about, and commemoration of Warbirds from all eras and the men and women who flew, maintained, and fought in them.
Located at Space Coast Regional Airport, Titusville Florida, minutes from the heart of the American Space Program the Warbird Air Museum is sure to astonish both young and old visitors with our world-class aircraft restorations and exceptional collection of military aircraft some of which you can only find at our facility. We look forward to sharing our nation's military aviation history with you!
Episode 20 - Allan Chapman, Executive Director of Historic Cocoa Village Main Street
Hello and welcome back to another episode of 321 Lift off! Today, we are pleased to be joined by Allan Chapman who is the Executive Director of the Historic Cocoa Village Main Street. Allan discusses his role with Main Street and what brought him here to Cocoa Village. Cocoa Village has several parks featuring many amenities including a playground and an amphitheater. He talks about the upcoming Fall Arts and Crafts Festival and the many events that the Historic Cocoa Village Main Street puts on each year. We also talk about great food and all of the amazing shopping and live entertainment that can be found in Cocoa Village. If you are looking for a great place to walk around and spend an afternoon, Historic Cocoa Village is the place to be.
Today's show was recorded on location at the Beachside Inn & Suites in Cocoa Beach and what a beautiful day it was. We recorded this episode from the Duck Dive Bar, facing their amazing lazy river. Michelle Martindale joins us as well to discuss the Beachside Inn & Suites.
Episode 19 - Brent Kabboord, Manager of Golf N Gator & Beachside Grand Prix
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today, we have a racetrack-sized episode! We are joined by Brent Kabboord who is the manager of Golf N Gator, which is a mini-golf adventure, and the Beachside Grand Prix in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Brent discusses his role with the attractions. We learn about Golf N Gator's 2 FULL 18 hole mini-golf courses. Here, you can see snakes, gators, a tortoise, and other animals. There are plenty of photo ops to be had. You can also mine for treasures here as well. Promo Pete tells us about his kid's finds the last time they mined here. The Beachside Grand Prix is a Go-Kart experience like no other where there are specific power-ups on the track that can give you an advantage or disadvantage. It feels like you have been transported into your favorite karting video game. Visit them at Golfngator.com or beachsidegrandprix.com.
Special thank you to our sponsor Beachside Hotel & Suites in Cocoa Beach.
Episode 18 - Donn Weaver, Brevard Veterans Memorial Center
Hello and welcome to 321 Lift Off! Today is a very special episode filled with patriotic history. We are joined by Donn Weaver who is the Brevard Veterans Council Chairman with the Veterans Memorial Center. Don himself is a veteran and he discusses his role with the museum. We learn about their amazing library and the surrounding park. Donn discusses the VMC's Veteran's history project. The Veterans history project is a DVD series where you learn first-hand stories of people involved in the military. We learn about the future expansion of the memorial center which includes an amphitheater and the moving wall.
Brevard Veterans Memorial Center is located in Merritt Island, Florida only a few minutes from historic Cocoa Beach. The museum is 100% FREE to visit, though donations are much appreciated.
This week's episode was brought to you by Beachside Hotel & Suites in Cocoa Beach.
Episode 17- Nancy Peltonen, President, and CEO of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today we are joined by Nancy Peltonen who is the President and CEO of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce. We learn how Nancy came into her position and about her background. We learn about the tourism here in Palm Bay, especially the parks which feature many fun and unique things to do such as play paintball, skateboarding, and an aquatic center. Plus, don't forget about the world-class bike trails. Palm Bay is the Bass fishing capital of the world and If you haven't heard of Larsen Motorsports, LMS is one of the largest turbine-powered drag companies in the world.
There is a lot to do and see in Palm Bay Florida and we thank Nancy for joining us and telling us all about this wonderful part of the Space Coast.
Episode 16 - Keith Winsten, Executive Director of the Brevard Zoo
Hello and welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today we have a very special episode as we are joined by Keith Winsten who is the Executive Director of the Brevard Zoo. We learn so much during this episode but first, we learn about Keith's background and the love he has for his career. We find out the history of the zoo. We also learn about some of the animals here and how they stay in their natural habitats. The Brevard zoo has attractions other than animals! You can Kayak and Zipline at the Tree Top Trek. We learn about the Zoo's expansion and don't Forget to see Lorenzo the Sloth!
Episode 15 - Jim McKnight & Melissa Byron From The City of Cocoa Beach
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today, we are joined by Melissa Byron who is the Director of Marketing and Economic Development for the City of Cocoa Beach, and Jim McKnight who is the Cocoa Beach City Manager. The crew discuss Melissa and Jim's role and responsibilities with the City of Cocoa Beach. Melissa discusses the amazing food destinations here. We learn about the Kelly Slater Statue and the many many attractions. Of course, we talk about the amazing beach, and let's not forget about the 27 holes of golf that are available.
Episode 14 - Sonya Mallard of the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center
Welcome to another episode of the 321 Lift Off podcast. Today's episode is rich with history! We are joined by Sonya Mallard with the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park and Museum. Listen to this episode to learn about Sonya's role and how she got involved with the Museum. We also learn about some of the amazing exhibits inside the museum including the amazing re-creation of the Moore family home that was bombed on Christmas Day 1951. Sonya tells the amazing story of Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore and the "Bomb heard around the world".
Sonya has a passion for what she does and it comes across in her amazing storytelling. This episode is a must listen to.
To learn more about the amazing life of both Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore please visit their website www.harryharriettemoore.org/
The museum is FREE to visit and is truly a hidden gem located on the Space Coast of Florida. If you are looking for Things To Do, this museum is located less than a half-hour from Cocoa Beach and only minutes from Titusville.
Episode 13 - Tara Dixon Engle, President of the American Police Hall of Fame & Museum
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off. Today the crew is joined by Tara Dixon Engle who is the President of the American Police Hall of Fame & Museum. We find out Tara's role with the museum and how she got involved with the Hall of Fame. We learn about the memorial of fallen officers and what the Hall of Fame does for the families of fallen officers. Tara discusses the future expansion of the museum and what plans they have for the future. There are so many exhibits here to discuss but some key highlights are the many, many police cars from different eras and many different interactive exhibits with great photo ops! Our favorite was the scenario trainer to where you test your reaction speed and firing accuracy in different high-stress scenarios.
Listen to the show to learn more. If you are looking for something to do while you are in the Titusville area or while visiting the Space Coast please stop in, you will be happy you did. They are located on your way to the Kennedy Space Center.
Episode 12 - Bob Boswell, The Executive Director of the Valiant Air Command and Warbird Museum
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off. Today, The crew is joined by Bob Boswell who is the Executive Director with the Valiant Air Command and War Bird Museum. Bob discusses what got him into being a pilot and how he got involved with the VAC. We also learn about the many, many planes and the history behind them. Wayne Belden, Space Coast Fun Guide President discusses the story behind one of the planes he worked on back in Vietnam which is here at the Valiant Air Command!
Episode 11 - Jennifer Sugarman, President, and CEO of the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce
Hello and welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today the crew is joined by Jennifer Sugarman, who is the President and CEO of the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce. Jennifer discusses the role of the Chamber of Commerce, Partnerships with the community, and her favorite attractions in Cocoa Beach. Some of the topics she touches on include the Space Coast Food Festival featuring the Chowder Cook-Off, Thunder On The Beach, wildlife, attractions, the beach, and water sports.
Make sure you tune in and listen to learn all about Cocoa Beach, Florida.
Episode 10 - Karan Conklin and Mark Marquette of The American Space Museum
Welcome to another edition of 321 Lift Off. Today the crew is joined by Karan Conklin, Executive Director, and Mark Marquette, Community Liaison for the American Space Museum. The American Space Museum is an amazing attraction located in Titusville. Mark and Karan discuss all of the exhibits here and what people will see and experience. We learn about the participation of the astronauts and some of the auctions that have been held here. Mark discusses what the "Stay Curious" web show is, and we of course find out what Mark and Karan love most about the Space Coast.
Episode 9 - Derrick Lockhart, Owner of Airboat Rides at Midway
Welcome to another episode of 3 2 1 Lift Off! In today's episode, the crew is joined by Derrick Lockhart, owner of Airboat Rides at Midway. Derrick discusses the experience of an airboat ride. Not only are airboat rides exciting, but the experience with animals cannot be beaten. We also find out what Derrick loves about the Space Coast and some background behind the business of Airboat Rides at Midway. Make sure you go see "The World Famous" Porkchop The Pig when you visit!
Episode 8 - Mark Grainger, President of Florida Air Tours
Welcome to another episode of 321 Lift Off! Today the crew is joined by Mark Grainger, The president of Florida Air Tours. The crew discusses what Florida Air Tours does. What's the difference between a Bi-Plane and a helicopter ride. Mark explains where you can go on these tours, the background of his staff, and what he loves the most about the Space Coast. Mark even can officiate a wedding in the air!
Episode 7 - Marcia Gaedcke, President of the Titusville Chamber of Commerce & Walt Johnson, Mayor of Titusville
Today is definitely an action-packed episode. We have Both Marcia Gaedcke, President of the Titusville Chamber of Commerce, and The Mayor of Titusville, Walt Johnson on the show today. They Both discuss their backgrounds and why they love the Space Coast. Hear about the ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the reopening of businesses in the area. Learn about the many, many attractions in the area and which ones are Marcia's and Walt's favorites. It was a pleasure having them on and just one episode couldn't contain all the information, so we will definitely have them back on to discuss why the space coast is the place to be!
Episode 6 - Laurilee Thompson Owner of Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant
On Today's episode, we are joined by Laurilee Thompson: The owner/operator of Dixie Crossroads, the "world-famous" seafood restaurant. The crew discusses Laurilee's family history in Titusville. Laurilee discusses the tool that helped start it all. She also discusses the Space Coast Birding Festival and she gives a great description of bio-luminescence kayaking.
Episode 5 - Rusty Buchanan First Vice President of The AAU
Today Pete and Bonnie talk with Rusty Buchanan. Rusty is the First Vice President of the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union). Rusty Discusses The Jr. Olympics coming to the Space Coast and how they plan on keeping everyone safe.
Episode 4 - Peter Cranis Executive Director of The Space Coast Office Of Tourism
Welcome to 321 Lift Off! In today's episode, we are joined by Peter Cranis. Peter is the Executive Director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism. The crew discusses with Peter new marketing plans for the Space Coast, the 72 miles of beaches in our destination, the wonderful space program, and exciting events that are coming to the Space Coast!
Episode 3 - Howard Schwartz Of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
This week, Pete and Bonnie chat with Howard Schwartz: The Senior Director of Marketing and Sales at Kennedy Space Center Visitor's Complex. The "Flight crew" discusses Howard's role at KSC and how KSC is such an amazing attraction. We also learn about the future of the commercial space industry, the Mars Launch coming up in July, and the news about the Jr. Olympics coming to the Space Coast!
Episode 2 - Tom Williamson Of Ocean Partners Associates
We are joined by Tom Williamson: The GM of Ocean Partners Associates. The crew discusses Tom's Role in tourism and the hotels he manages as well as the future of the commercial space industry, what hotels are doing to combat COVID-19, and the procedures and precautions implemented in keeping the hotels clean. Tom also schools us on what the term "Per Diem" is.
Episode 1- Introduction to 3..2..1.. Lift Off!
Hello and welcome to 321..Lift Off! This podcast is all about the great Florida Space Coast. Hosted by Pete Lynch and Bonnie King. Join them as they interview the Space Coast's most influential businesses and give you insightful information as to why the Florida Space Coast is the place to be!
Do you have a tourism related question?
E-mail us your questions and we may discuss them on air!
