Who we are
Captain Butch:
Co-Founder- The Great Epoch
A lifelong waterman and marine science enthusiast, Captain Butch Ringelspaugh has built a career anchored in passion, precision, and purpose. In 2015, he founded Aqua-Cultured, a venture inspired by his deep-rooted background in coral aquaculture and environmental conservation. With a degree in marine science and years of hands-on experience studying endangered coral species, Butch specialized in the cultivation of coral in public aquariums—bringing delicate marine ecosystems to life and into public awareness.
Butch’s expertise led him to serve as a curator in several renowned public aquariums before transitioning into a national sales role in the aquarium industry, where he helped design and supply custom acrylic displays for zoos, museums, and marine institutions. Even as his professional path shifted, his heart never strayed far from marine science and the health of our oceans.
For over a decade, Butch lived aboard, combining his love for boats, exploration, and conservation. His course changed again when he met Jennifer, his first mate in life and on the water. Inspired by a shared love for boating, motorcycles, and family-centered adventure, Butch left his road-based sales career and joined the yachting world full-time as a Business Operations Manager at a major Yacht Supercenter
First Mate- Jen:
Co-Founder- The Great Epoch
Growing up between Indian Rocks Beach and Anna Maria Island, Jen’s love for the water and adventure began early. A certified master diver and lifelong explorer, she’s always chased experiences that bring people together. Her career started in the action sports world with Camp Woodward and The Dew Tour, helping young women carve space in a male-dominated scene.
Now a seasoned real estate professional with over 15 years of experience, Jen holds both a CAM and real estate license, specializing in industrial properties and triple net leases. She’s known for her dedication to clients, always going the extra mile.
Off the clock, Jen’s passion for vintage motorcycles has fueled over a decade of collecting, riding, and wrenching. She even brought Captain Butch into the mix, and together they founded @stpetemotomeetups—a local event series celebrating community, cool bikes, and shared adventures.
As co-founder of The Great Epoch, Jen blends bold leadership, creativity, and a deep love for family into every journey—proving that success comes from showing up, working hard, and staying true to your passions.
Swab Hunter
Deckhand, Explorer & Chief Joy Officer
At just five years old, Hunter brings unstoppable curiosity and joy to The Great Epoch crew. Whether she’s helping as deckhand, scouting for tiger paw shells on the beach, or keeping watch for dolphins, she’s always up for the next adventure. Hunter has been riding bikes since before she could walk and is currently all about mountain biking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
When she's not out on the boat, she’s busy creating art, dressing up as a unicorn-princess hybrid, or caring for the wildlife in her backyard—making sure the birdseed is stocked for her favorite birds and squirrels. She adores her two cats: Maz Catnada the sweet Sphynx, and Rey the sassy Torti (both named with love for Star Wars).
Hunter’s deep love for animals, nature, and imaginative play inspires the entire crew to get outside and explore daily. She’s the youngest member of The Great Epoch, but without a doubt, the one who keeps the spirit of adventure alive.
Meet Maz & Rey
The Catalorian Crew
Maz Canata is our sun warshipping, wrinkle covered Bambino Sphyns who has perfected the ancient art of napping. Rey, our feisty tortoiseshell, was rescued from Friends of Strays and now rules the couch (and occasionally shreds it). They may be opposite in energy, but together they balance the Force- and our home. Whether snoozing or zooming, these two complete our crew in the most purrrfect way.
