Support Isn't Just Local. It's Personal.
Tampa Stories Podcast FAQ
Welcome to the official FAQ for Tampa Stories, your go-to source for discovering the voices, values, and ventures shaping the Tampa Bay area.
Whether you're here to listen, learn, or get inspired, this guide will help you understand what we do, who we serve, and how to tune in.
1
What is Tampa Stories?
Tampa Stories is a podcast that brings you real conversations with the people building businesses, shaping culture, and making a difference across Tampa Bay. Each episode features a local entrepreneur, creative, or changemaker sharing their personal journey, business insights, and lessons learned.
2
Who is this podcast for?
Our audience includes:
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Curious locals who love Tampa Bay and want to explore its hidden gems.
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Entrepreneurs and small business supporters
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Young professionals and students (especially from the University of Tampa).
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Anyone who enjoys values-driven storytelling and authentic conversations.
If you care about community, culture, and creativity, this podcast is for you.
3
What problem is Tampa Stories solving?
Tampa has a vibrant, fast-growing business and cultural scene, but many stories go untold. We give voice to the people behind the storefronts, restaurants, startups, and creative spaces. Our goal is to:
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Bridge the gap between local businesses and the community.
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Help residents feel more connected to where they live.
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Showcase under-the-radar stories that deserve the spotlight.
5
Is it free to listen?
Yes! Tampa Stories is a free podcast available on YouTube!
6
Does Tampa Stories have a newsletter?
Yes! The Tampa Stories newsletter is a weekly email that brings you:
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New episode alerts.
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Bonus content and behind-the-scenes stories.
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Tampa event picks and business highlights.
It’s a great way to stay connected to the city — even between podcast drops. Click here to sign up.
7
Who's the host?
Chuck Merlis, a Tampa-based journalist and storyteller with a background in PR, marketing, and editorial strategy, is behind the mic. He's interviewed everyone from restaurant founders in Ybor City to startup leaders in Water Street. His mission is to:
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Elevate local voices through authentic, human-centered storytelling.
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Give people a platform to share how and why they built what they did.
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Explore the intersection of personal values, business, and community impact.
Learn more about Chuck on our About page.
8
What kind of topics are covered?
Each episode dives into:
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Business and entrepreneurship in Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater
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The best restaurants and neighborhoods in Tampa (Hyde Park, SoHo, Channelside, Westshore, Downtown, Ybor City)
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Local news, trends, and economic shifts (inspired by Tampa Bay Times and Tampa Bay Business Journal)
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Stories from the University of Tampa alumni and student entrepreneurs
9
What makes Tampa Stories one of the best podcasts for locals?
We’re more than just interviews. This is a show about why people do what they do in the city they love. The show connects people to their community through emotion, honesty, and purpose. If you want a podcast that’s local, meaningful, and full of heart, this is it.
10
Is this a news podcast?
Not exactly. While we cover timely topics and local developments, we’re more focused on people than headlines. We bring you the stories behind the news — the long-form, podcast definition of Tampa’s culture.
11
Can I suggest a guest or business for the show?
Absolutely! If you know someone with a great story, head to our Nominate a Guest page and tell us why they should be featured.
12
How can I help support the podcast?
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Watch and subscribe on YouTube.
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Share episodes on social media.
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Tell a friend who lives in or loves Tampa.
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Know someone doing something interesting here in Tampa Bay? Reach out and tell us!
We’re building this with and for the Tampa Bay community.
Still have questions? Reach out anytime at chuckmerlis@gmail.com or send us a DM on Instagram @tampa.stories.