Conversations with Marlon Bolton: The Podcast

Join Commissioner Marlon Bolton for a thought-provoking conversation with John A. James, a dedicated public defender in Broward County, as they delve into the complexities of juvenile justice, systemic challenges, and the fight for fair representation. In this episode, James shares his inspiring story, from his unexpected childhood motivation to become a lawyer - involving a chocolate bar - to his tireless work training attorneys and advocating for at-risk youth. Together, they explore critical issues, including: - The Impact of Diversion Programs: How alternative approaches can reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for young people. - Implicit Bias in Policing: The ways in which unconscious biases can affect law enforcement decisions and interactions with the community. - Breaking Cycles of Incarceration: The role of education in preventing juvenile delinquency and promoting positive change. Whether you're a concerned citizen, a parent, or simply curious about the justice system, this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in for valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding juvenile justice.

Tamarac Commissioner Marlon Bolton welcomes Joe Scott, Broward County Supervisor of Elections, for a vital conversation on navigating the upcoming election season. With registration deadlines looming, new laws surrounding vote-by-mail ballots, and various voting options available, this episode provides essential information every voter needs to know. Joe Scott shares insights on measures taken to ensure the security and integrity of the voting process, as well as resources available for voters with disabilities or language barriers. From understanding the voting process to making informed decisions at the polls, Commissioner Bolton and Supervisor Scott cover it all, offering valuable guidance to make your voting experience seamless and effective.

Have you heard of Jumpstart’s Read For the Record initiative? Vice Mayor Marlon Bolton sat down with Ken King, Director of Public Affairs and Organizational Development for the Children's Services Council of Broward County, to take a closer look at this powerful kid-focused initiative and the state of literacy in Broward County.

In 2023, the City of Tamarac has been undergoing an intensive 2040 Comprehensive Plan Development process to ensure successful and strategic plans for Tamarc’s future. This intricate process includes data collection, public input, assessments of current City conditions, and development of supporting policy. Vice Mayor Bolton sat down with planner, Mark Alvarez of the Corradino Group, for a closer look at this unfolding process and its important steps toward implementation.

What do you know about the City of Tamarac’s Multimodal Transportation Masterplan Development Process? Currently, the City is undertaking a multimodal study to enhance transportation options for everyone! Whether you choose to walk, bike, ride or drive, the future of Tamarac’s transportation network will prioritize the needs of all users. Vice Mayor Marlon D. Bolton connects with project consultant, Alia Awwad, from Alta Planning and Design, Inc., for a deeper look at the project’s objectives and to share how all of Tamarac can help shape a more inclusive and efficient transportation system for the City.

Commissioner Marlon Bolton sits down with Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick to address Attainable Housing, First Time Homebuyer grants and how her work is positively impacting working families and residents faced with food and energy insecurity.

Do small businesses really win in Broward County? The Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) says, “Yes!” Sandy-Michael McDonald, Director of the OESBD will guide small business owners through the various resources, grant and procurement opportunities to make small businesses thrive.

In June we celebrate Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Commissioner Marlon Bolton sat down to discuss the contributions and impact of South Florida’s Caribbean-American community with Calibe Thompson, Board President and Co-Founder of Island Space FL. Island Space FL is a museum located in nearby Plantation that works to elevate the profile of Caribbean art, history and culture.

Remember all the buzz about the “Penny for Transportation” in Broward County? Well, it’s now called MAP Broward and it comes with a 30-year comprehensive plan to modernize and enhance all aspects of Broward County’s transportation future, from infrastructure to the technology. In part one of this two-part series, MAP Broward’s Gretchen Cassini, Mobility Advancement Program Administrator joins Commissioner Bolton to discuss MAP Broward and its long-term objectives.

In a sit-down with Dr. Mohamed Osman, Commissioner Marlon Bolton explores medical perspectives and gets the 411 on maintaining heart health through a low-risk lifestyle.

Do you know the inner workings of the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office? Commissioner Marlon Bolton sits down with the Broward Property Appraiser to discuss important topics you should know such as legislation, portability and the new Owner Alert system -- a free service that helps protect your property from fraud by notifying you if change of ownership documents are received by BCPA regarding your property.

In recent months, national news coverage has included frequent references to the “Great Resignation,” brought on by the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Commissioner Marlon Bolton and Douglas Saenz, Career Source Broward’s Business Services Manager for Entrepreneurship, Small Business, Hospitality & Retail, will take a closer look at this historical phenomenon and its effects, such as paths to new careers and opportunities for shifts or advancements in one’s current industry.

What’s the status of your 2022 New Year’s Resolution? We’re two months into the new year. If you’ve fallen off of your path to success or your headed in that direction, Commissioner Marlon Bolton will sit down with Job Brunat of Challenges Conquered Counseling to give you several helpful pointers for getting back on track.

It’s Tax season! Hispanic Unity is the leading organization on a coalition of Broward-based non-profits making sure all residents in need have access to free and very necessary tax preparation services. Anamaria Ceballos, Hispanic Unity’s Senior Program Manager of Income Support & Small Business Services will breakdown the important ins and outs of properly filing taxes for 2021.

Without the proper maintenance and precautionary measures, electrical connections can become unintentional hazards. Commissioner Marlon Bolton sits down with Tommy Demopoulos of Tamarac Fire Rescue to discuss fire safety.

A Special Election will take place in Broward County on January 11, 2022 for U.S. House of Representatives, District 20. Will your vote Count? Commissioner Marlon Bolton of Tamarac sits down with Broward Supervisor of Elections Joe Clark to introduce the new Voter Registration Trifold card, a one-stop-shop for voters to register, make name and address changes, update signatures and select political party affiliations.

Don’t let crooks spoil your holiday season joy! Commission Marlon Bolton sits down with Lieutenant Jemeriah Cooper of the BSO Crime Prevention Unit to learn a few simple holiday safety reminders.

With Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccinations now approved for children 5 and older, Dr. Brooks sits down with Tamarac Commissioner Marlon Bolton to dispel myths and present important facts to parents.

The 2021 Holiday Season is here! Commissioner Marlon Bolton sits down with Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Juanita Enogieru, to discuss how to indulge in our favorite holiday dishes, while fighting against the holiday bulge. In this must listen conversation, Juanita Enogieru gives us tips to better eating habits and more.

Welcome to “Conversations With Marlon Bolton: The Podcast.” On Conversations, we exchange thoughts and ideas with community members representing a broad array of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. We then merge these action-focused ideas to bring forth thoughtfully crafted new approaches for shaping a high quality of life for our residents. The goal of Conversations is to foster Tamarac’s future growth and resilience.