Chris Ingram spent years in the public eye as a political analyst, columnist and educator. Now he has stepped into a new role as the owner of Gulfstream Video Studio in Pinellas Park.
The 1,700 square foot studio offers multiple sets, a podcast room and a large LED wall that allows clients to create professional video content without the cost of a large production facility.
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This story looks at how the studio came to be, why it matters to Tampa Bay and what to expect next.
What happened?
Ingram bought the former Personify studio after initially trying to rent the space for a three-hour show launch. The purchase was unplanned and happened within weeks. The facility includes five sets, a dedicated podcast room and a 10-by-7-foot LED wall.
Since opening, Gulfstream has already hosted a video game company, a medical device firm and the production crew from The Advocate, a television series streaming on Amazon Prime.
Ingram hired his first producer, Buddy Winsett, who has worked on major network sports broadcasts, NASA programming and film sets. The studio is positioning itself as a boutique option for corporate clients, podcasters and small video productions.
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Ingram shared that the new venture comes after a difficult personal chapter. In recent years, he sold his stake in 411 Communications, navigated a divorce, lost his father and went through cancer treatment. He said teaching at the University of Tampa kept him grounded, but he wanted a new purpose. The studio became the next step.
He also announced a new local show, Heartbeat of Tampa Bay, co-hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Sarina Fazan. Ingram described Fazan as a partner who brings energy and sincerity to every conversation. Fazan said the show will highlight the people and stories that show the heart of Tampa Bay.
Why this matters
Gulfstream Video Studio enters the market at a time when video production has become essential for companies, nonprofits and local leaders.
Many small and mid-sized businesses need professional content but cannot afford a full-scale production house. Gulfstream fills the gap by offering a studio with curated sets, controlled lighting, clean audio and an experienced technical team.
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The addition of a new studio also expands the region’s creative economy. It gives local entrepreneurs, media personalities and corporate teams a place to shoot training videos, podcasts, brand stories and social media content.
The collaboration Ingram is building with larger studios strengthens the entire ecosystem by creating more options across budget levels.
What you should know
For business owners and creators, Gulfstream offers:
- Professional video and audio production at a lower cost than a traditional studio
- A podcast room with sound control and turnkey recording support
- The ability to film corporate training, interviews, brand stories and promotional videos
- Access to experienced producers who manage lighting, sound and graphics
- Collaboration opportunities for agencies or studios looking for overflow or specialty space
Local leaders and PR teams can also watch for the launch of Heartbeat of Tampa Bay, which will feature community voices and local business stories.
What’s next?
Ingram plans to continue upgrading equipment and adding new sets. Gulfstream will also build more partnerships with agencies and production companies that need flexible space. More clients and new programming are expected as the studio becomes known across the region.
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Heartbeat of Tampa Bay will begin production soon and aims to highlight stories of kindness, creativity and leadership across Tampa Bay.
Takeaway
Chris Ingram’s return to the media world comes at a time when Tampa Bay’s creative landscape is expanding. Gulfstream Video Studio offers a fresh resource for companies and creators seeking professional content without high production barriers.
It also marks a personal reset for Ingram, who says he is exactly where he is supposed to be.
