TalkVisual305: Homestead FL & The Stories Behind the Success

TalkVisual305: Homestead FL & The Stories Behind the Success

di Demmetrius Knowles & Julio Guzman
LavoroSocietà e cultura
How Chefs on the Run Put Homestead on South Florida’s Culinary Map
In this episode of TalkVisual305, Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles sit down with Chef Jodrick Ujaque, the award-winning chef and creative force behind Chefs on the Run Gastro Pub in Homestead, Florida. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in a family of butchers, Chef Jodrick learned to cook at an early age. After gaining experience at well-known restaurants such as Café Tu Tu Tango and Ortanique, he took a chance in 2011 and opened Chefs on the Run—the first Caribbean-American gastropub of its kind in South Florida. Chef Jodrick shares the challenges of opening a restaurant in a small market, the inspiration behind his bold Puerto Rican and Caribbean-American cuisine, and how Chefs on the Run became one of Homestead’s most recognized restaurants. We also discuss his 13 years of participation in the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, appearances on “Bites with Belkys,” “Delicioso,” “A la Carta,” and “Check, Please!,” and his historic participation in Paradise Farms’ “Dinner in Paradise.” Chef Jodrick also explains why chef-owned and family-owned restaurants will continue to thrive, what aspiring chefs should know before attending culinary school, and why creating a memorable dining experience will never go out of style. Subscribe to TalkVisual305 for more conversations with the business owners, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and personalities shaping Homestead and South Dade. Restaurant Location - 10 E Mowry Dr, Homestead, FL 33030 Phone - (305) 245-0085 Menu Visit - chefsontheruninhomestead.com Instagram - @chefsontherun #ChefsOnTheRun #TalkVisual305 #HomesteadFlorida #ChefJodrick #PuertoRicanFood #SouthFloridaFood #MiamiRestaurants #Gastropub #SupportLocalRestaurants
E68
13 ago 2026
56:12
Homestead MMA Professional to Educator and Championship Wrestling Coach | Chino Duran
In this episode of TalkVisual305, Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles sit down with Gamaliel “Chino” Duran, educator, wrestling coach, and founder of DBlueprint Combat Academy and Wrestling Club. Chino shares his journey from immigrating to South Florida in the 1980s and growing up in Homestead to becoming a three-time GMAC Girls Wrestling Coach of the Year. He discusses how his experiences living at the South Dade Center of the Homestead Housing Authority helped shape his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to serving young people in the community. We also discuss the growth of girls wrestling, the influence of legendary coach Victor Balmeceda, the challenges of building a combat-sports program, and the opportunities wrestling and MMA can create for the next generation. Learn how DBlueprint is helping athletes develop from beginners into serious competitors while building confidence, discipline, and character. Subscribe to TalkVisual305 for more conversations with the people shaping Homestead and South Miami-Dade.
E67
13 ago 2026
38:42
Haitian TPS, Homestead Infrastructure Upgrades & New Leadership Role at Homestead Housing Authority
In today’s episode of TalkVisual305, Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles sit down for a timely conversation about three important issues affecting the Homestead and South Miami-Dade community. We discuss the Temporary Protected Status situation impacting Haitian families, the major infrastructure improvements underway near Krome Avenue and Flagler Avenue, and what those upgrades could mean for local residents, businesses, traffic, and future development. Julio also shares a personal announcement about being elected Chair of the Homestead Housing Authority Board of Commissioners and discusses the responsibility of helping establish policy, vision, and priorities for affordable housing in the community. Join us for an honest conversation about immigration, infrastructure, housing, leadership, and the future of Homestead. Topics discussed: • Temporary Protected Status for Haitians • Krome Avenue and Flagler Avenue infrastructure upgrades • Homestead Housing Authority leadership announcement • Affordable housing and community development • The future of Homestead and South Miami-Dade Subscribe to TalkVisual305 for conversations with the people, leaders, and organizations shaping our community.
E66
13 ago 2026
29:56
Inside the Life of Mayor Steven Losner | Homestead History, Politics & Legacy
In this episode of TalkVisual305, we sit down with Homestead Mayor Steven Losner for a candid conversation about family, leadership, and a lifetime dedicated to public service. Mayor Losner reflects on his family’s deep roots in Homestead, including their role in establishing the city’s first bank, and shares how those experiences inspired him to pursue a career in law before ultimately entering public office. Throughout the conversation, he discusses the importance of serving the community, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and the major accomplishments achieved during his time as mayor. More importantly, he shares his vision of leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit future generations of Homestead residents. Whether you’re interested in local government, the history of Homestead, or the personal journey of one of the city’s most recognizable leaders, this episode offers a unique look at the experiences that shaped Mayor Losner and his commitment to the community. 🎙️ Hosted by Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us continue bringing meaningful conversations with the people making a difference in our community. #TalkVisual305 #HomesteadFL #StevenLosner #MayorStevenLosner #Leadership #PublicService #HomesteadHistory #CommunityLeadership #LocalGovernment #Podcast
E65
14 lug 2026
59:30
Why South Miami-Dade Veterans Deserve Better Healthcare | Thomas Davis
After serving 34 years in the U.S. military, including two deployments to Afghanistan, Thomas Davis continues his commitment to service in a different way. In this episode of TalkVisual305, Tom shares his military journey, the lessons he learned through decades of leadership, and why he believes serving your community doesn't end when you leave the military. As an educator at Colonial Christian School, Tom discusses how he is encouraging and mentoring students to become engaged citizens by learning about veteran issues and participating in community advocacy efforts related to expanding healthcare access for veterans in South Miami-Dade. He explains why involving young people in civic engagement is an important part of developing future leaders. We also discuss: Tom's 34-year military career Leadership lessons from military service Life after retirement Veterans' healthcare challenges The importance of civic engagement Mentoring the next generation through education Why community service still matters Whether you're a veteran, educator, student, or community leader, this conversation is filled with lessons about leadership, perseverance, and giving back. Hosted by Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles Subscribe to TalkVisual305 for conversations with the people making a difference in Homestead, South Miami-Dade, and beyond.
E64
14 lug 2026
40:26
Empowering Women Through Faith & Purpose | Dr. Carolyn Taylor Pates & Tina Bawa-Shitgurum
In this inspiring episode of TalkVisual305, we welcome Dr. Carolyn Taylor Pates, Founder and CEO of Carolyn Taylor Pates Enterprizes, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving South Dade Counties and Mrs. Tina Bawa-Shitgurum, founder of The Extraordinary Woman Conference Florida 2026. They join us to discuss the vision behind this impactful conference, the importance of faith, leadership, healing, and empowering women to embrace their purpose while making a positive impact in their families, businesses, ministries, and communities. Conference Details 📅 Saturday, July 11th, 2026 📍 Venue: Events Banquet Hall 144 NE 8th Street Homestead, FL 33030 Featured Panelists: • Dr. Anthonia Emezie, MD • Dr. Carolyn Taylor Pates • Apostle Amen Izedome • Dr. Martina Osaghae • Tina Bawa-Shitgurum Whether you're seeking spiritual encouragement, leadership inspiration, or practical wisdom for personal growth, this conversation offers valuable insights for women and families throughout our community. Learn more about The Extraordinary Woman Conference Florida 2026: https://www.tinabawa.org/ If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to TalkVisual305. Your support helps us continue highlighting the remarkable people, organizations, and events making a difference throughout Homestead, South Dade, and beyond. #TalkVisual305 #ExtraordinaryWomanConference #WomenOfFaith #HomesteadFL #Faith #Leadership #WomenEmpowerment #CommunityLeadership #SouthDade #Podcast
E63
14 lug 2026
53:57
The Story Behind Miami Clippers & South Florida Barber Schools | Alberto Eiras
In this episode of TalkVisual305, we sit down with entrepreneur and community leader Alberto Eiras, owner of Miami Clippers Family Barbershops, founder of South Florida Barber Schools, and Vice Chair of the Malibu Bay Community Development District. Alberto shares his incredible journey of overcoming personal tragedy, raising three children as a single father, and building multiple successful businesses that have served the Homestead community for more than 20 years. In this conversation, you'll learn: • How adversity became the motivation to reinvent his life • The story behind Miami Clippers' success • Why vocational education and skilled trades are becoming the future • What it takes to build a business while raising a family • Lessons in leadership, perseverance, and community service • His vision for expanding career opportunities in South Florida Whether you're an entrepreneur, student, business owner, or someone looking for motivation to keep moving forward, Alberto's story is filled with practical wisdom and inspiration. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help us continue bringing you conversations with the movers and shakers making a difference in our community. 🎙️ TalkVisual305 Real conversations. Real people. Real stories. #TalkVisual305 #HomesteadFL #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #BarberLife #Leadership #BusinessOwner #SuccessStory #VocationalEducation #CommunityLeadership #MiamiClippers #SouthFloridaBarberSchools
E62
14 lug 2026
42:02
The Hidden Battle Veterans Face After Coming Home | Justin Karalfa
What happens after the uniform comes off? In this episode of TalkVisual305, Julio Guzman and Demmetrius Knowles sit down with Justin Karalfa, a retired U.S. Army veteran who dedicated 20 years to serving our country before beginning a new mission here in Homestead, Florida. Now serving as Commander of VFW Post 4127, Justin is helping local veterans facing some of life’s toughest battles—including PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, financial hardship, and the difficult transition to civilian life. In this conversation, Justin shares: His 20-year Army career and military experiences The emotional reality many veterans face after returning home The inspiring story of helping a veteran in crisis just days after becoming Commander The mission of VFW Post 4127 and how it supports local veterans How our community can make a difference in the lives of those who served Whether you’re a veteran, have a loved one who served, or simply want to better understand the sacrifices made long after military service ends, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us continue highlighting the people making a difference throughout South Dade and beyond. 🎙️ TalkVisual305 Real conversations with the leaders, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community changemakers shaping our community.
E61
14 lug 2026
36:21
Rebuilding Homestead: CRA Director Jared Beck on Redevelopment
In this episode of the TalkVisual305 Podcast, we sit down with Jared Beck, Director of the Homestead Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), for an in-depth conversation about revitalizing Homestead's historic downtown and the bigger forces reshaping the future of Florida's cities. With over two decades of experience in urban planning and redevelopment, Jared shares the personal story that pulled him into city planning, why he chose to join Homestead's CRA right as state lawmakers moved to dismantle CRAs altogether, and what's really at stake for downtowns across Florida as the state chips away at home rule. Topics covered in this episode: 🏛️ Why he joined Homestead's CRA amid legislative threats to dismantle CRAs statewide 🌆 The moment that sparked his lifelong passion for historic downtowns and redevelopment 🤖 How AI is already changing the way cities plan, review, and build ⚖️ Florida's shift away from home rule and what it means for local communities 🔮 His outlook on the future of Homestead's downtown and CRAs across the state A must-watch for anyone who cares about historic preservation, smart growth, and the future of Homestead. 🔔 Subscribe for more South Florida conversations that matter. 📍 Covering Homestead & Miami-Dade County #JaredBeck #Homestead #CRA #TalkVisual305 #SouthFlorida #MiamiDade #Podcast #UrbanPlanning #Redevelopment #HistoricPreservation #CommunityLeadership #HomesteadFL
E60
9 lug 2026
41:25
Rebuilding Homestead: CRA Director Jared Beck on Redevelopment
In this episode of the TalkVisual305 Podcast, we sit down with Jared Beck, Director of the Homestead Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), for an in-depth conversation about revitalizing Homestead's historic downtown and the bigger forces reshaping the future of Florida's cities. With over two decades of experience in urban planning and redevelopment, Jared shares the personal story that pulled him into city planning, why he chose to join Homestead's CRA right as state lawmakers moved to dismantle CRAs altogether, and what's really at stake for downtowns across Florida as the state chips away at home rule. Topics covered in this episode: 🏛️ Why he joined Homestead's CRA amid legislative threats to dismantle CRAs statewide 🌆 The moment that sparked his lifelong passion for historic downtowns and redevelopment 🤖 How AI is already changing the way cities plan, review, and build ⚖️ Florida's shift away from home rule and what it means for local communities 🔮 His outlook on the future of Homestead's downtown and CRAs across the state A must-listen for anyone who cares about historic preservation, smart growth, and the future of Homestead. 🔔 Subscribe for more South Florida conversations that matter. 📍 Covering Homestead & Miami-Dade County #JaredBeck #Homestead #CRA #TalkVisual305 #SouthFlorida #MiamiDade #Podcast #UrbanPlanning #Redevelopment #HistoricPreservation #CommunityLeadership #HomesteadFL
E60
21 giu 2026
41:25
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