Fort Lauderdale just wrapped a wild World Cup run, even without hosting a single match, and the ripple effects were huge for Broward’s hotels, bars, and neighborhoods. Inter Miami’s Florida Blue Training Center quietly became one of the busiest national team bases on the planet, while watch parties from Sunrise to Hollywood packed arenas and downtown streets with fans repping Colombia, Scotland, and more. If you live or work in Greater Fort Lauderdale, this summer was a preview of how global events can pump millions into local businesses, hospitality, and tourism.

We also get closer to home with the smart water meter rollout, because those surprise bills and pressure issues are hitting actual neighbors, not just headlines. I share what happened at my own house, why communication broke down, and the phone numbers you need if your meter swap goes sideways. From a neighborhood bagel stop like Bagels & Co to the stalled 901 North redevelopment in Flagler Village, this conversation stitches together how big plans, small places, and city decisions shape everyday life in Fort Lauderdale. If you care about where Broward is headed, this is the kind of local update that helps you ask better questions, support local spots, and stay plugged in.

=== Chapters

• 00:16 Welcome Back to Let's Talk Lauderdale
• 02:07 World Cup Windfall
• 06:03 Smart Meter Growing Pains
• 11:08 Bagels and Local Favorites
• 13:22 Sears Site Redevelopment
• 17:23 Upcoming Events Rundown

=== Local Businesses / Organizations / Nonprofits

• Fort Lauderdale Smart Water Meter Program: https://spotlightftl.com/smart-water-meter-program
• Bagels & Co: https://bagelsandco.com/locations/fort-lauderdale-7th-street
• Old Searstown (901 North): https://www.rwerealestate.com/2026/04/24/the-redevelopment-of-901-north-federal-highway-_-the-old-sears-town/

=== Events / Attractions / Venues

• NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale Neighbor Day: https://nsuartmuseum.org
• YOLO First Fridays: https://yolorestaurant.com/happy-hour-menu/
• The Chili Poppoers with American Idiots: https://www.jointherevolution.net/concerts/the-chili-poppers-with-american-idiots/
• Lionel Richie with Earth, Wind & Fire: https://casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/events/lionel-richie-and-earth-wind-and-fire
• Adam Ray Stand-Up at The Parker: https://www.parkerplayhouse.com/events/detail/adam-ray-2026
• Visit Lauderdale Events Calendar: https://www.visitlauderdale.com/events

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Title: Happy Epic And Confident Corporate Background Piece To Suit Health Or Dynamic
• Item ID: 195889930
• Publisher: Saowakhon Brown
• Composer: Saowakhon Brown
• License: Individual License, Commercial
• Stock Media provided by TheSaoLady / Pond5

Website: https://www.letstalklauderdale.com/

Let’s Talk Lauderdale is hosted by Marvin Bee & Jen Stewart.

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