Best of ORL 2024: Media & People Winner Spotlights
Take a closer look at this year's first place winners in the media and people categories.
Winner: Local Podcast | Bungalower and The Bus
Hosted by Brendan O’Connor and Jon Busdeker, Bungalower and The Bus is a popular podcast and media platform in Central Florida. The show covers local happenings, hidden gems, cultural insights and dining destinations. It’s a go-to resource for residents and visitors looking to stay informed and entertained about the Orlando area.
Winner: Music Radio Station | WMMO 98.9 FM
A popular radio station in Central Florida, WMMO 98.9 FM is known for its classic rock playlist and engaging on-air personalities such as Joe Rock and Orlando native Jay Edwards. It’s also just fun to say “WMMO” in a soft tone. The station offers a mix of music, local news and events. WMMO 98.9 FM also hosts concerts and community events, connecting with its audience beyond the airwaves.
Winner: Local Radio Show | Sunday Morning Coming Down
Sunday Morning Coming Down is a beloved Sunday radio show on Real Radio 104.1 FM that features a curated selection of classic country and Americana music celebrating the roots of country music and its timeless appeal. This weekly four-hour show is known for its laid-back vibe and nostalgic playlists, providing listeners with a perfect soundtrack for a relaxing Sunday morning.
©First Orlando
Winner: Spiritual Leader | Rev. David Uth—First Orlando
Rev. David Uth is the senior pastor at First Orlando, one of Central Florida’s largest and most vibrant churches. Known for his inspiring sermons and compassionate leadership, Rev. Uth has been instrumental in fostering a welcoming and inclusive community at First Orlando. His ministry focuses on spiritual growth, community service and outreach programs.
Winner: Local Sports Team | Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic burst onto the scene in 1989, when they were established as one of the NBA’s expansion teams. Since then, they’ve been to the playoffs 17 times in 35 seasons and played in the NBA Finals twice. In the 2023-24 season, the Magic finished 5th place in the Eastern Conference. The team is dedicated to excellence on the court and actively engages with the community through various outreach programs.
Winner: TV News Team | Good Day Orlando
Hosted by the dynamic Deborah Choe, Brooks Garner, Amy Kaufeldt, Danielle Knox, Ryan Elijah and Jessica Dobson, Good Day Orlando is a popular morning news show on Fox 35 and provides viewers with the latest news, weather, traffic and entertainment updates. The show covers a wide range of topics relevant to Central Florida residents; rest assured you’ll start the day informed and entertained.
©WFTV Channel 9
Winner: TV Weather Forecaster | Tom Terry
A prominent meteorologist at WFTV Channel 9, Tom Terry is renowned for his accurate weather forecasts and calm demeanor during severe weather events. Terry has become a trusted source of weather information for the community; his expertise and dedication to keeping viewers informed has earned him widespread respect and admiration.
Winner: Social Media Influencer | Christina Thomas (GoEpicurista)
Christina Thomas, known as @goepicurista, is a well-known food and travel blogger in Central Florida. She shares her culinary adventures and travel experiences through engaging content on her blog and social media channels. Christina’s reviews and recommendations are highly regarded, making her a trusted voice for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking unique and delicious experiences. But don’t take our word for it; follow @goepicurista yourself and find out what the buzz is about.
Winner: Photographer | Jessie Dee
Jessie Dee is a talented photographer based in Central Florida. She’s won Best of ORL four years in a row and has a dedicated following of happy clients. Dee founded her business in 2008, and in addition to photography offers services such as creative content, corporate training and social media management that compete with major agencies.
