Direct with Dana

About Direct with Dana

Direct w/ Dana is a weekly talk show and podcast hosted by Dana Brooks. Each episode features candid conversations with the people making a real difference across North Florida. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

RealWorks Media

Category

business · business · government

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Jul 2026

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Oct 2026

   20 Years of Weightloss with Glenda Cato

   Is Ozempic changing weight loss forever? And what happens to your body, confidence, and relationships when the pounds come off? After 20 years in the weight loss business, Glenda Cato has seen it all — and she's sharing what most people never talk about. On this episode of Direct with Dana, host Dana Brooks sits down with Glenda Cato, owner of Fit Weight Loss in Tallahassee, to discuss the evolution of weight loss, GLP-1 medications, aging, nutrition, and the emotional side of transforming your health. From traditional diet pills to today's popular weight loss injections, Glenda shares her experiences working with clients and explains why she believes lasting change requires more than medication alone. In this episode: How weight loss treatments have changed over 20 years Ozempic, GLP-1 medications, and potential side effects Why protein and maintaining muscle matter as we age The emotional and relationship changes that can follow weight loss Why accountability and support make a difference How Fit Weight Loss approaches new clients Glenda's passion for Springtime Tallahassee and community leadership Plus, hear Glenda's perspective on staying active, aging with purpose, and why she has no plans to slow down. Whether you're considering medical weight loss, struggling with stubborn pounds, or simply interested in healthier aging, this conversation offers personal stories, practical perspectives, and plenty of straight talk. Subscribe to Direct with Dana for more conversations with the people making a difference in our community. Learn more about Fit Weight Loss and follow Direct with Dana for future episodes. This conversation includes personal experiences and opinions about medical treatments and nutrition. It is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. #DirectWithDana #WeightLoss #Ozempic #GLP1 #HealthyAging #MedicalWeightLoss #Tallahassee #DanaBrooks #GlendaCato Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   5 Oct 2026

   Why Good People Get Chewed Up in Politics w/ Quincee Messersmith

   What really happens when a community-minded person steps into local politics? Wakulla County Commissioner Quincee Messersmith opens up about the criticism, pressure, growth battles, and political games that come with public service. Dana Brooks sits down with Quincee for a candid conversation about going from longtime volunteer and political insider to elected county commissioner. Quincee discusses why she refused to become a traditional politician, what happens when supporters expect something in return, how social media has changed local government, and why leaders can’t make decisions based on whoever is shouting the loudest. They also tackle some of Wakulla County’s biggest issues: economic development, new jobs, infrastructure, internet access, environmental protection, population growth, and the tension between preserving a community and preparing it for the future. Quincee reflects on losing political support without losing herself—and hints that her next chapter in public service may be bigger than local government. Topics include: local politics, Wakulla County, county government, leadership, economic development, community growth, public service, social media, political campaigns, Florida politics, infrastructure, environmental protection, and running for office. Subscribe to Direct with Dana for more candid conversations with the people shaping North Florida, and follow Fasig Brooks for more from Dana and the show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   28 Sept 2026

   Childhood Trauma Changes Everything

   Childhood trauma doesn’t always stay in childhood. But it also doesn’t have to determine the rest of your life. Dana Brooks sits down with Dr. Mimi Graham, Director of the FSU Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy, for a powerful conversation about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attachment, trauma, resilience, foster care, early intervention, and the adults who can completely change a child’s trajectory. Dr. Graham explains how early experiences can affect brain development and behavior, why repeatedly moving children between caregivers can cause additional harm, and how trauma-informed courts and early-childhood programs can make better decisions for vulnerable families. Dana also shares deeply personal experiences from her own childhood and explains why experiencing adversity doesn’t automatically determine someone’s future. The conversation explores the importance of teachers, coaches, mentors, fathers, and other stable adults—and why sometimes one person believing in a child can make an enormous difference. Topics include childhood trauma, ACEs, attachment, foster care, resilience, early childhood development, parenting, fatherhood, mentorship, juvenile justice, Head Start, trauma-informed courts, and breaking generational cycles. Subscribe to Direct with Dana for more candid conversations with the people working to strengthen families and communities, and follow Fasig Brooks for more from the show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

4. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Florida Property Tax Relief: Who Really Pays the Price?

   Florida homeowners want property tax relief. But could lowering one tax make rent more expensive and put local services under pressure? What happens when counties lose millions in revenue—and who ends up paying the difference? On this episode of Direct with Dana, host Dana Brooks sits down with former Leon County Commissioner Brian Desloge to examine Florida's proposed Amendment 3 and its potential impact on homeowners, renters, businesses, and local communities. Brian draws on his experience in county government to explain how the proposed homestead exemption increase could affect local budgets. He discusses a projected $70 million annual revenue loss for Leon County, possible changes to property tax rates, and concerns about funding for first responders, parks, libraries, and animal shelters. Dana challenges Brian with the questions everyday Floridians are asking: Why can't government simply spend less? Why should homeowners pay for services they don't use? And could property tax relief end up shifting costs to renters and businesses? In this episode: How the proposed property tax amendment works Why homestead and non-homestead properties matter The potential impact on rent and commercial property How counties fund emergency services and public facilities Whether local governments can cut spending instead Alternative approaches to property tax reform The discussion also explores Florida's property insurance challenges and the importance of understanding local budget impacts before making decisions at the ballot box. Have a question about Florida property taxes? Share it with us! Subscribe to Direct with Dana for candid conversations about the issues affecting your community, your finances, and your future. #DirectWithDana #FloridaPropertyTaxes #Amendment3 #PropertyTaxRelief #FloridaHomeowners #FloridaRealEstate #HomesteadExemption #LocalGovernment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

5. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Steve Birtman - Capital City Tiger Bay Club President

   American politics feels angrier, louder, and more divided—but did voters actually become more extreme? Dana Brooks sits down with longtime political insider Steve Burtman to talk about what happened to the political middle and whether our parties still represent everyday Americans. Steve, president of the Capital City Tiger Bay Club, brings decades of experience in Florida politics, government affairs, business, and advocacy to a wide-ranging conversation about the changing Republican and Democratic parties. Dana and Steve dig into political polarization, MAGA and the changing GOP, the progressive movement on the left, why outrage gets rewarded, the influence of PAC money, third-party politics, immigration, political discourse, and why so many moderate voters feel politically homeless. They also discuss whether people are actually nastier than they used to be—or whether social media simply gives our worst political instincts a bigger microphone. And they explore why organizations like Tiger Bay could help bring people back into face-to-face political conversations. If you're tired of political shouting matches and want a smarter conversation about where American politics is headed, this episode is for you. Keywords: American politics, political polarization, Democratic Party, Republican Party, MAGA, moderate voters, independent voters, third party politics, Florida politics, Tallahassee politics, PAC money, elections, political discourse, Capital City Tiger Bay Club Subscribe to Direct with Dana, follow the show, and join us for more conversations that inform, challenge, and inspire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

6. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Gary Yordon: Why Authenticity Wins in Media and Politics

   Gary explains his unconventional journey from baseball at Florida State to live television, elected office, The Usual Suspects, award-winning production, and the advertising strategy he developed with Fasig | Brooks. He shares why “the camera believes you or it doesn’t,” why quiet messaging can cut through a noisy marketplace, and why getting consumers to know, like, and trust you can matter more than shouting about results. Dana and Gary also get personal about his son Zachary and the profound impact he had on Gary’s life and creative perspective. Then they dive into today’s political landscape: the power of moderate voters, the rise of political extremes, why negative campaigning works, and Gary’s once-controversial idea to combine Leon and Wakulla counties. Topics include Tallahassee politics, political campaigns, advertising strategy, personal injury law marketing, storytelling, media production, Emmy-winning work, writing, authenticity, and building consumer trust. Subscribe for more conversations from Direct with Dana, follow the show, and visit Fasig | Brooks to learn more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

7. 

   31 Aug 2026

   The Real Greg Tish: Tallahassee, Radio & Reinvention

   Greg Tish is usually the one asking the questions. This time, Dana Brooks puts him in the hot seat. On this episode of Direct with Dana, Greg opens up about growing up in Tallahassee, his unexpected path from DJing to radio, nearly two decades with the Florida Sheriffs Association, and the leap that ultimately led to The Greg Tish Show. He and Dana also dig into why hyper-local radio matters, “outrage fatigue,” the Tallahassee people underestimate, and why there’s a lot more happening in this city than critics think. Then the conversation gets personal. Greg talks candidly about shyness, insecurity, relationships, learning to say no, walking away from alcohol, getting older, and the legacy he hopes his generation leaves behind in Tallahassee. If you enjoy honest conversations with the people shaping our community, subscribe to Direct with Dana, follow the show, and share this episode with someone who loves Tallahassee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

8. 

   24 Aug 2026

   From Prison to Partner: The Jimmy Fasig Comeback Story

   Jimmy Fasig went from the top of his law school class to drug trafficking, prison, and a felony conviction. Then he set a goal almost everyone around him thought was impossible: become a lawyer and a partner in a law firm. On this episode of Direct with Dana, Dana Brooks sits down with her law partner of 18 years for a candid conversation about Jimmy’s extraordinary comeback. He shares how one trip to Amsterdam sent his life down a dark path, why getting arrested ultimately saved him, and how he spent years building the case that he deserved a second chance. Jimmy also opens up about resilience, goal setting, success, risk-taking, losing friends, local fame, family, and the philosophy behind “Come Back Stronger.” Plus, Dana and Jimmy get candid about what they’ve learned from each other after nearly two decades as law partners. Whether you’re rebuilding after a setback, pursuing an impossible goal, interested in the legal profession, or looking for a different perspective on success and personal growth, this conversation is proof that your worst chapter doesn’t have to be your last. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

9. 

   17 Aug 2026

   Can Tallahassee Keep Growing? A discussion with Ed Murray

   Dana Brooks sits down with commercial real estate veteran Ed Murray to examine Tallahassee’s economic future, from housing and development to jobs, FSU Health, and AI. They also explore what’s holding growth back—and why Tallahassee can still be a place where entrepreneurs and young professionals can “move the needle.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    10 Aug 2026

    Who Can You Trust in Local News?

    Who decides what becomes news and how do you know who to trust? 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. Subscribe for more Direct with Dana conversations with the people shaping the issues that affect your community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    3 Aug 2026

    Red Tape, Growth & The Future of Tallahassee with Skip Foster

    Is Tallahassee living up to its potential—or falling behind? 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 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

12. 

    27 Jul 2026

    The Lawyer Behind the Headlines: Katherine Viker

    When a courtroom becomes national news, what really happens behind the scenes? 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 Whether you're interested in law, leadership, employment issues, courtroom strategy, or inspiring career stories, this episode delivers an honest conversation packed with insight. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Follow Direct with Dana for more conversations with leaders, attorneys, and changemakers making an impact in their communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    18 Jul 2026

    Mayor John Dailey Talks Leadership, Growth, and Tallahassee's Future

    What does it take to lead a city through growth, crisis, and change? 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. Subscribe for more conversations that inform, challenge, and inspire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    8 Jul 2026

    The Truth About Termite Damage Most Homeowners Never Hear

    Most homeowners believe they're protected from termites... until it's too late. 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 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 👍 Subscribe for more conversations that help protect your rights and your wallet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.