Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto-logo

Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

Business & Economics Podcasts

Welcome to Key West – Paradise USA As you enter the island of Key West, these words are the first thing you see in big bold letters on the famed ‘Welcome to Key West’ sign. Whether it be the incredible sunrises or sunsets (we get both here), the charming Conch houses hidden around every turn, the chickens running wild, the flat ocean for miles or the island feel, it’s really the people that make Key West what it is. If you have ever wondered what people do around here or wanted to know the story behind a restaurant, bar or local business, this is exactly why we started the Backyards of Key West Podcast. We are going to take you behind the scenes, so we can bring you the stories behind what makes Key West so magical, and how they juggle business life with Island life. So sit back and relax and enjoy the chill vibes!

Welcome to Key West – Paradise USA As you enter the island of Key West, these words are the first thing you see in big bold letters on the famed ‘Welcome to Key West’ sign. Whether it be the incredible sunrises or sunsets (we get both here), the charming Conch houses hidden around every turn, the chickens running wild, the flat ocean for miles or the island feel, it’s really the people that make Key West what it is. If you have ever wondered what people do around here or wanted to know the story behind a restaurant, bar or local business, this is exactly why we started the Backyards of Key West Podcast. We are going to take you behind the scenes, so we can bring you the stories behind what makes Key West so magical, and how they juggle business life with Island life. So sit back and relax and enjoy the chill vibes!

Location:

Key West, FL

Description:

Welcome to Key West – Paradise USA As you enter the island of Key West, these words are the first thing you see in big bold letters on the famed ‘Welcome to Key West’ sign. Whether it be the incredible sunrises or sunsets (we get both here), the charming Conch houses hidden around every turn, the chickens running wild, the flat ocean for miles or the island feel, it’s really the people that make Key West what it is. If you have ever wondered what people do around here or wanted to know the story behind a restaurant, bar or local business, this is exactly why we started the Backyards of Key West Podcast. We are going to take you behind the scenes, so we can bring you the stories behind what makes Key West so magical, and how they juggle business life with Island life. So sit back and relax and enjoy the chill vibes!

Language:

English

Contact:

3059053388

Episodes

Sky Dive Key West - a Thrill of a Lifetime

4/16/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Steve Alsobrook, the chief pilot and spokesperson for Sky Dive Key West. We talk about how the business was started, the first time Steve jumped out of a plane... and some celebrity gossip. More on Sky Dive Key West Rated one of the top ten places to skydive in the world. With tropical views, this is an experience you won't soon forget. After jumping from the plane, you will experience the thrill of falling at speeds of 120 mph or more. Once...

Duration:00:27:44

Ocean Blues Studio Art Gallery

4/9/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with local artists Jasmine Jones and Katlin Spain of the amazing Ocean Blues Studio. We talk about how each of them got started as individual artists, how they met, and how they formed Ocean Blues Studio; an amazing place where create and showcase their art, all in one place. More about Ocean Blues Studio Jasmine Jones Born and raised here in Key West, Jones grew up immersed in color. From the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive on the island, to...

Duration:00:41:05

The One & Only Irish Kevin's Bar

4/2/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the GM Daylin, and the iconic Irish Kevin's Bar We talk about the origin of the bar and what they did to thrive during and after COVID times. More about Irish Kevin's Since July of 1998 Irish Kevin’s Bar has been inviting guests to “come on in”! Singer, songwriter and entertainer ‘Irish Kevin’ had the vision to open his bar on Duval Street focused on live music and good times…a simple formula that has established the bar as an institution in...

Duration:00:45:46

How The Florida Keys SPCA is Helping our Furry Friends Find a Home

3/26/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tiffany Dunsmore, the Development Director in Key West. We talk about how the SPCA is doing post-COVID-19 and how you can help. Florida Keys SPCA Mission The Florida Keys SPCA is dedicated to promoting the humane treatment of all animals through compassionate care, adoption, education, population control and humane law enforcement. We are a completely independent, private, not-for-profit organization and are not funded by, any other state or...

Duration:00:29:40

Amazing Key West Conch Art by Abigail White

3/19/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with local Key West artist, Abigail White. We talk about where she gets her inspiration and, why for heaven's sake, is she not more famous here in Key West! I'm a huge fan of her work and have been for years before I even moved to Key West. The way she turns houses and iconic spots like Sloppy Joes into conch shell paintings are AMAZING!! More on Abigail White Growing up on the island of Key West has been an inspiring journey. I'm a pastor's...

Duration:00:48:37

Lost Boy Creations - Apparel For The Wanderlust

3/12/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Lost Boy creator and leader himself (no not Rufio) Matthew Atkinson. We learn how Matt made his way to St. John, how he became a shaper of wooden boats and boards, how he made his way to Key West, and how the origin of Lost Boy Creations came about. More on Lost Boy Creations Live like a Lost Boy Lost Boy:{lost boi} noun (see also: mermaid, unicorn, pirate) We count ourselves among a hand full of brave, wild, and fun-loving explorers who...

Duration:00:54:57

Find Local Shops in the Keys With ShopMomAndPop.com

3/5/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with returning guest, Paul Menta. Paul may be known for his Kiteboarding and his Rum (Key West Legal Rum Distillery), but we sit down to discuss his newest project, Shopmomandpop.com When COVID-19 hit, Paul saw how hard local businesses got hit, that he created a FREE listing for locally-owned independent businesses and services of Key West & the Florida Keys. More on SHOPMOMANDPOP.com Mom and Pop business is two out of three businesses in Key West...

Duration:00:40:26

Scott Gerke Talks Mental Health & How He Is Changing The World, One Stranger At A Time

2/26/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Scott Gerke, a Key West local that many of you know - or will know real soon. He created the Key West Full Moon Experience, has an event company, is a local DJ, took a stranger on the most epic Key West adventure - and suffers from anxiety. Like most of us out there, Scott may have looked like he had everything together from the outside. The great job, great apartment, the girl, the height (he is super tall), and living the island life... until...

Duration:01:28:07

Beards and Brews Barbershop & Bar

2/19/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Beards and Brews owner, Eric to discuss how he got the idea, how longs he's been cutting hair, and how the island locals came together to support him and his new venture. More on Beards and Brews Barbershop & Bar Beards and Brews is the "Premier Barbershop Of The Florida Keys," offering craft beer and select draft beers while you wait*. With multi-generational barbers, with a combined experience of over 30 years. We are your local trusted...

Duration:00:26:28

Whiskey Tasting at the Key West Trading Company

2/12/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Smuggler Jim (JD Martin) at his Whiskey tai sting room on 627 Eton Street. We talk about the family history behind the Smuggler and well... everything Whiskey :) More on Key West Trading Company “Purveyors of Fine Whiskies and Spirits” This is the philosophy that our founder JD Martin had in mind when he created the company. “I wanted to bring my family heritage of a reputation for Top Quality spirits and old school customer service to Key...

Duration:00:41:42

The Jerk Key West

2/5/2021
On this episode of the podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with chef and food truck owner of The Jerk Caribbean food, Deon. We talked about how Deon got into the cooking game, how his culinary education mixed with family recipes, created some of the best Caribbean food on island. I should know... I had to get some after the interview! More on The Jerk We specialize in flavorful Caribbean Cuisine, only the best is good enough! Whole fish, Jerk, Oxtails, Curries, stews and many more...

Duration:01:01:53

Shots and Giggles Local Bar

1/29/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Shots and Giggles owners Steve Kibbe and Hannia Rivera. We talk about how they got into the bar business and why they decided to open this local favorite. More on Shots and Giggles Shots and Giggles is located on the corner of Ann and Greene Street next door to Tattoos & Scars Saloon. A local's favorite known for its intimate setting. S&G features over 60 craft beers, fine wine and premium liquors. S&G will be celebrating its 9th anniversary...

Duration:00:48:04

Singing, Songwriting & Festivals with Arlis Albritton

1/22/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Singer, songwriter, and all-around cool guy, Arlis Albritton. We talked about his journey and how he got started in music (hint, it was the mailroom), navigating the Nashville writing scene, and how he is expanding his talent into the festival arena, with the St. Augustine Songwriters Festival: http://staugustinesongwritersfestival.com More on Arlis Arlis started writing full time, getting numerous cuts on acts like Julie Roberts, Keith...

Duration:00:29:17

The Secret to Life with Harrison Gallery

1/15/2021
In this episode of the Podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with artists Helen and Ben Harrison to talk about their gallery on White Street, but in a surprise turn of events, ended up talking about their life at sea. I think the below quote sums it up - enjoy! "In the 1970s my husband, Ben, and I spent four years building a thirty-eight foot sailboat in Costa Rica, a massive project for two gringos in a foreign country. Starting with a bare hull, we designed and constructed this giant sculptural...

Duration:01:17:17

The Key West Mermaid Festival

1/8/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Head Mermaid, Kristi Ann to talk about how she got the idea for the festival, and how she applied her savvy retail skills into her creation. Save the date: July 1st - 5th 2021 More on the Mermaid Festival The Key West Mermaid Festival is founded by a Key West native mermaid. She, along with her crew and pod, invite you to step back in time to an island called Cayo Hueso (Bone Cay), where the Gulf meets the Atlantic, and the captains, seafarers,...

Duration:00:57:06

Take a Tour with the Key West Express

1/1/2021
In this episode, Mark Baratto interviews Kathy Stamper and Scott Schofield to talk about the Key West Express, which takes residents and visitors to and from Key West, Fort Meyers and the Marco Island area. More on the Key West Express Key West Express to Paradise - Chill Out, Relax, Enjoy, Explore Our jet-powered catamarans deliver you to the Southernmost Point of the United States, a Vacation Spot of Poets, Pirates, Presidents & Partygoers. Have your camera ready as you take in the...

Duration:00:25:42

My Interview on the Blame it on Buffett Podcast

12/25/2020
In this guest episode, Alia Moore interviews Mark Baratto on the Blame it on Buffett Podcast. This is an exclusive "role reversal" where Alia has me on as a guest on her podcast. If you ever wanted to know who the guy was behind the Backyards of Key West podcast, this is your chance! More on the Blame it on Buffett Podcast A podcast about Jimmy Buffett, Parrot Heads, Trop Rock, and all things escapism adjacent! I had a great time chatting with Mark because not only did we talk about Key...

Duration:01:25:25

Sacred Space Key West Gallery

12/18/2020
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the artists and creators of Sacred Space: Lucy Hawk, Barbara Sage, Emily Shipman and Cristina Velardi. We talk about how this group of powerhouse ladies found each other, how they support each other, and how Sacred Space was formed. More on Sacred Space Sacred Space is an artist collective representing 9 local female creatives. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sacredspacekeywest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sacredspacekeywest Keys...

Duration:01:07:51

Everything Key West with FunInKeyWest.com

12/11/2020
In the episode, Mark Baratto sits down with travel blogger Michele O’Connor to talk about how she started her blogging business and how she grew her website into a full-time business. More on FunInKeyWest.com Who are we and what do we know about Key West? We are avid travelers. Road trip is our middle name. Any chance we get, we are on the open road. We even have jobs that have us traveling around. I guess you could say it’s a way of life. A few years back, we ended up at the end of the...

Duration:00:43:19

Take a Trip to the Dry Tortugas with the Yankee Freedom III

12/4/2020
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Carol Hill, the owner of the Yankee Freedom III Ferry to the Dry Tortugas. This episode was recorded at the beginning of 2020 and Carol has a little cold, but don't worry, it wasn't COVID-19 :) We talk about how Carol got into the business, all the hoops she needed to jump through to be the exclusive free to the Dry Tortugas, and how having a positive attitude always wins out. More on The Yankee Freedom III Journey from Key West to the Dry...

Duration:00:36:24

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