Matthew Peddie
Host, Florida Matters Live & LocalI am the host of WUSF's Florida Matters Live & Local, where I get to indulge my curiosity in people and explore the endlessly fascinating stories that connect this community.
I’m originally from New Zealand, but I’ve lived in Florida for more than a decade. Among my first assignments as a radio reporter in the Sunshine state were covering the retirement of the iconic space shuttles and the dawn of the new commercial space race. I’ve also reported on Central Florida’s booming economy and its flip side: the affordable housing and homelessness crisis, and I’ve covered hurricanes and closely watched presidential elections.
Before WUSF I spent 10 years at WMFE in Orlando, where my roles included transportation reporter, acting news director and hosting the public affairs show Intersection. Working as a journalist in Florida has honed my skills as a host and developed my appreciation for the power of public radio to help illuminate complex issues. Prior to moving to the US I worked as a radio reporter in New Zealand, and my journalism career has taken me as far south as Scott Base, Antarctica.
Outside of work I enjoy sketching, street hockey, watching cricket and exploring Florida’s great outdoors with my family.
Contact Matthew at 813-974-8680, on X @matthew_peddie or by email at mpeddie@wusf.org
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Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is one of a handful across that country that are using private companies at checkpoints. On "Florida Matters Live & Local," the airport's president and CEO explains why. -
A Florida woman says her own birth plan was overridden when a hospital sought legal intervention. The case was argued before a judge over Zoom – while she was in labor. -
On "Florida Matters Live & Local," we spoke with the makers of the film "First They Came for My College." It examines government influence at New College of Florida in Sarasota. -
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a measure to keep funding going for lifesaving medication. But the coverage runs out in July. Hence, the legal back-and-forth over the AIDS Drug Assistance Program continues. -
Despite passing a slate of high-profile bills, Florida lawmakers couldn’t resolve some of their biggest disagreements. Where do things stand and what’s up tap with special sessions planned for next month? -
A recent court ruling is reigniting debate over red-light cameras in Florida. Critics say the fines unfairly target vehicle owners, while supporters argue they save lives. -
“Florida Matters Live & Local” takes a closer look at a pair of controversial bills heading to the governor’s desk. One covers voter ID and the other allows the state to label what groups are terrorist organizations. -
On "Florida Matters Live & Local," Tampa Police Benevolent Association President Brandon Barclay addressed revisions to the police department's immigration enforcement policies. -
Why are plans for enormous AI data centers raising alarms with residents who may have to learn nearby? And Sheriff Grady Judd wants some "common sense" used when it comes to immigration enforcement. -
Spring breakers are hitting the skies as fuel costs surge and economic uncertainty grows. Airline expert Darryl Jenkins warns he can’t confidently predict where fares are headed.
