Dana Brooks sits down with Tallahassee Reports founder Steve Stewart for a candid conversation about media bias, credibility, politics, and Tallahassee’s future.

Steve explains how Tallahassee Reports evolved from a watchdog blog into a community newspaper, why he believes every news organization has some form of bias, and why consumers should look beyond the messenger and examine the facts.

Dana and Steve also dig into advertising and editorial independence, the changing role of legacy media, local political divisions, Tallahassee’s job market, private-sector growth, housing and migration into surrounding counties, and the debate over what may be holding the local economy back.

It’s a wide-ranging conversation about journalism, accountability, economic development, leadership, and what Tallahassee could become next.

Topics include: Tallahassee news, media bias, local journalism, Tallahassee Reports, local politics, Tallahassee economy, jobs, business growth, Leon County, housing, economic development, FSU, local leadership, and consumer trust in media.

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Former Tallahassee Democrat publisher Skip Foster joins Dana Brooks for an honest conversation about economic development, bureaucracy, journalism, affordable housing, and why Florida's capital isn't experiencing the same growth as the rest of the state.

They discuss:

• Why Tallahassee's economy has stalled
• The biggest barriers to business growth
• How permitting and bureaucracy impact development
• Affordable housing and zoning reform
• The role of local leadership
• Journalism vs. advocacy in today's media
• What Austin did differently—and what Tallahassee can learn
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If you care about Tallahassee's future, local politics, business growth, economic development, entrepreneurship, or community leadership, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

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Attorney Katherine Viker joins Dana Brooks for an inside look at one of Florida's most talked-about recent trials, the challenges of representing plaintiffs, and the surprising path that led her from raising five children to becoming one of Tallahassee's most respected employment attorneys.

In this episode:

• The high-profile Fabian Basabe trial
• What it's really like trying cases against self-represented litigants
• Sexual harassment and workplace discrimination
• Plaintiff law vs. defense law
• AI in the courtroom
• Building a legal career later in life
• Celebrity clients, music legends, and unexpected career opportunities
• Leadership, resilience, and standing up for what's right
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Whether you're interested in law, leadership, employment issues, courtroom strategy, or inspiring career stories, this episode delivers an honest conversation packed with insight.

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In this episode of Direct with Dana, Dana Brooks sits down with Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey for a thoughtful conversation about public service, leadership, and the future of Florida's capital city.

Mayor Dailey reflects on nearly two decades in elected office, sharing lessons learned from leading during COVID-19, navigating difficult public issues, and balancing the demands of leadership with family life. The conversation also explores Tallahassee's growth, economic development, housing, healthcare, public safety, and the role local government plays in shaping everyday life.

Topics include:

• What the mayor's role really looks like
• Leadership during COVID and other community crises
• Why fewer people are choosing to run for public office
• Youth violence and public safety
• Growth, housing, and economic development
• FSU Health and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare
• Property taxes and home rule
• Reflections on public service and what's next after City Hall

If you're interested in local government, civic leadership, Tallahassee, public policy, or community development, this conversation offers valuable perspective from someone who has spent two decades serving the community.

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Dana Brooks sits down with law partner Eric Stephenson to uncover what really happens when termite companies fail to protect your home, how homeowners unknowingly lose thousands of dollars, and when you should call an attorney before repairs begin.

In this episode you'll learn:

• Why termite contracts don't always provide the protection you think
• Liquid barriers vs. bait stations
• Common mistakes homeowners make after discovering termites
• The truth about termite bonds
• How improper inspections lead to catastrophic damage
• When contractors, inspectors, and termite companies may all share responsibility
• Eric's incredible legal career—from criminal prosecutions to nationally known cases
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Whether you're buying a home, own property in Florida or Alabama, or simply want to protect your biggest investment, this episode could save you thousands.

Topics:

Termite damage • Homeowners insurance • Property damage • Florida law • Alabama law • Real estate • Home inspections • Termite treatment • Legal advice • Consumer protection

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