Matthew Peddie
Host, Florida MattersI am the host of WUSF’s weekly public affairs show Florida Matters, 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 ten 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 twitter at @matthew_peddie or by email at mpeddie@wusf.org
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Two out of five Floridians are living on the edge of poverty, according to a report published last month by United Way Suncoast. -
Florida Matters explores how new laws are changing public schools for teachers, parents and studentsColleges and universities are also facing big changes because of Gov. Ron DeSantis's administration.
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Florida Matters will be examining how Florida has changed in recent years, and we want you to be part of the discussion.
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Among new measures, they voted to ban gender affirming care for minors.
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Lawmakers passed laws on guns, housing, education and a slate of bills that could help Gov. DeSantis if he runs for president.
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On Friday, lawmakers approved Senate Bill 70-50. It now awaits the governor's signature.
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Free speech advocates say new rules limiting demonstrations at the state capitol threaten the First Amendment rights of Floridians.
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"Ruby Bridges," a movie based on the story of a 6-year old girl’s experience of school integration in New Orleans during the 1960s, will continue to be shown as part of Pinellas County Schools’ curriculum.
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Professors say House Bill 999 would be horrific for academic freedom at Florida's state universitiesThe proposed bill also targets funding for diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
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The 60-day legislative session hits the halfway mark this week.
