Tampa Bay Community Network Unplugged

In this special Unplugged Part 2 episode, host John Casimiro continues his conversation with Mike Raso, founder of the Film Photography Project. This time, they open the vault and revisit some of Mike’s early independent films—ambitious, DIY projects that helped shape his creative voice long before FPP became a cornerstone of the analog community.
They talk about creative risks, low-budget filmmaking, and what it was like making indie movies during a very different era. Whether you’re a fan of the Film Photography Project, analog media, or independent film, this episode offers a rare look at the roots of Mike Raso’s creative journey.

In this episode of On the Grid, host EJ Moreno sits down with Dr. Nyla Hazratjee, founder of NY/LA Productions which is a nonprofit, woman-centered creative agency dedicated to elevating MENA, Muslim, and South Asian voices in film and television. Dr. Hazratjee is an award-winning filmmaker, a double board-certified physician, and a first-generation Pakistani American whose work explores the rich and complex experiences of minority subcultures in the United States. Her creative mission focuses on combating Islamophobia, shifting cultural narratives, and building equity through independent media. NY/LA Productions champions stories that mainstream outlets often overlook, producing projects with artistic innovation, cultural depth, and real community impact. Dr. Hazratjee shares insights into the power of storytelling, her journey as a Muslim woman filmmaker, and her vision for reshaping how Muslim and MENA communities are represented on screen. This inspiring conversation explores filmmaking, identity, activism, and the transformative potential of inclusive media.

In this episode of Hillsborough Heritage Exploration, host Jimmy Flint-Smith sits down with Drew Newman, fourth-generation owner and General Counsel of the J.C. Newman Cigar Company, to discuss how Tampa’s last operating cigar factory continues to preserve a proud tradition more than a century later. Founded in 1895 by Julius Caeser Newman, the company began rolling cigars by hand in a family barn in Cleveland, Ohio, before moving to Tampa in 1954 then the cigar capital of the world. Today, J.C. Newman operates out of the historic El Reloj factory, built in 1910, which remains the only large cigar factory still producing cigars in the United States. Drew shares the story behind his family’s mission to “roll cigars 100 years from now, the way we do today,” the restoration of the 114-year-old El Reloj building, and their ongoing efforts to keep Tampa’s cigar-making heritage alive. From creating a public museum and cigar tours to restoring the nearby Sanchez y Haya building, the Newmans are breathing new life into Ybor City’s historic heart. This conversation celebrates craftsmanship, family legacy, and Tampa’s enduring connection to its cigar-making roots.

In this episode of Hillsborough Heritage Exploration, host Jimmy Flint-Smith sits down with Patrick Manteiga, publisher of La Gaceta, to discuss the rich history and lasting cultural legacy of the Cuban Club (El Círculo Cubano de Tampa) in Ybor City. Founded in 1902 by Cuban immigrants, the Cuban Club was much more than a gathering place: it provided healthcare, social services, and cultural enrichment for its members. After its original building was lost to fire in 1916, the grand four-story structure built in 1917 became a landmark of Neoclassical architecture and community pride. With its theater, ballroom, library, cantina, and murals, the Cuban Club has stood as a hub for music, theater, and celebration while preserving Cuban identity for generations. Patrick shares insights about the club’s role as a mutual aid society, its service as a temporary hospital during the 1918 flu pandemic, and its ongoing significance as both a historic venue and a cultural institution. Join us as we uncover the stories behind one of Ybor City’s most treasured landmarks.

In this episode of TBCN Unplugged, filmmaker and photographer Michael L. Raso shares his journey from Super 8 films and EI Independent Cinema to launching the Film Photography Project. We talk about his creative process, independent film productions, and how his passion for analog photography grew into a worldwide community.

In this episode of the TBCN AI Media Lab, Scott Ertz returns with an interactive session packed with fresh updates on the world of artificial intelligence. From the latest breakthroughs to practical ways AI is reshaping media, Scott dives into what’s new and what’s next. Tune in for insights, questions, and a deeper look at how AI continues to evolve.

@TampaBayCommunityNetwork‬ In this episode of Talk to Your Government, host Becky Yettaw sits down with Representative Fentrice Driskell, the Minority Leader of the Florida House of Representatives. As the highest-ranking Democrat in the Florida House, Rep. Driskell plays a critical role in shaping legislative priorities, building consensus, and amplifying the voices of Floridians across the state. This in-depth conversation explores her perspectives on Florida politics, leadership in the legislature, and the issues that matter most to constituents today. Whether you’re interested in policy, community impact, or understanding how state government works, this interview offers valuable insight from one of Florida’s key political leaders. Talk to Your Government is produced by Tampa Bay Community Network to connect you with the people representing you and making decisions in government.

Welcome to the first episode of Hillsborough Heritage Explorations, a new series that uncovers the rich, layered history of Tampa Bay and Hillsborough County. In this premiere episode, we dive into the story of the SS American Victory, one of only a few surviving Victory ships from World War II. Moored in the Port of Tampa, the SS American Victory isn't just a museum, it’s a floating monument to the bravery, resilience, and engineering prowess of an era that shaped the world. Learn about its wartime service, its postwar missions, and how it came to be preserved right here in Tampa Bay. Join us as we explore how this ship continues to educate and inspire generations, and discover why preserving heritage like this is vital for our community. Subscribe for more local history stories Like this video to support heritage education Comment below: Have you ever visited the SS American Victory? Location: Port of Tampa, Florida Produced by: Tampa Bay Community Network (TBCN) Part of the Hillsborough Heritage Exploration Series

Join host Becky Yettaw for an insightful conversation with Lynn Hurtak on Talk to Your Government. Lynn shares her journey from education to local politics, her work in Tampa’s neighborhoods, and her advocacy through organizations like the League of Women Voters and the ACLU of Florida. Learn about her role in shaping Tampa’s city charter, her experience on the Variance Review Board, and her vision for the city’s future. What are the biggest challenges facing Tampa today? How can citizens get involved in local government? What inspired Lynn to take an active role in her community? Don’t miss this engaging discussion on civic engagement and leadership!

In this Youtube episode of TBCN Unplugged, host John Casimiro sits down with TBCN’s very own Creative Director, Lazaria Johnson. A proud Tampa native, Lazaria shares her journey from discovering her passion for graphic design in high school to pursuing her studies at HCC. She talks about how she landed at TBCN, where she now teaches the popular Mobile Videography class, helping others develop their skills in creative storytelling. Lazaria also shares her experience learning motion graphics and creating the energetic opening for the TBCN Unplugged TV show using After Effects. Join us for an inspiring conversation about creativity, education, and making the most of every opportunity