Podcast
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 I created the Backyards of Key West Podcast.
So sit back, relax and enjoy as you learn the stories behind what makes Key West so magical. To listen from your computer, click on any of the episodes you want, or click on your favorite app below!
Episode 243 - The Key West 1st Annual Rum Fest
Episode 242: Woolly Willie - A Tapestry of Tales, Tunes, and Triumphs
Join host Mark Baratto as he dives into the colorful and eclectic world of “Woolly” Willie Alsedek, a master of storytelling whose life reads like a novel. In Episode 242, we unravel the threads of Willie’s adventurous journey from aspiring filmmaker to beloved author and artist.
Willie opens up about the serendipitous rock-paper-scissors game that propelled him into the realms of digital media and how a national recession nudged him onto the boardwalks, guitar in hand, serenading the world one laugh at a time.
Episode 241 - A Taste of Key West, Savoring The Flavors of Community and Charity
Episode 240 - The Waggin' Wiggle Food Truck
Episode 239 - The Concierge Girl with Kelly & Keith Hopkins
Episode 238 - Phat Slabs: The Artistry of Ryan Halligan
237 - Celebrating Creativity at the 59th Key West Art & Craft Festival
236 - Crafted Elegance: Coasting Cocktails with Jessica
In this engaging episode, host Mark Baratto sits down with the talented craft cocktail maker and proud owner of Coasting Cocktails, Jessica.
Join us as Jessica shares her inspiring journey into the world of mixology and recounts the pivotal steps she took to establish her business, which has quickly become a sensation at events.
235 - From KWSOAPS to E11DROPS: Embracing Change
234 - Redefining Sweetness: A Dive into Doozee Bespoke Ice Cream Bar Shop with Buck Epstein
233 - Unveiling the All-New Follow The Rabbit Bar Experience!
Join Mark Baratto in this captivating episode as he reunites with Jordan Upchurch, the visionary mind behind the transformed Follow The Rabbit speakeasy. Uncover the enchanting world of Follow The Rabbit as they expand their horizons, sharing the secrets of their success and introducing their newest venture - a tantalizing addition of delectable food!
🐇 Dive deeper into the Follow The Rabbit Speakeasy 🍸 Embark on a journey within our clandestine cocktail haven, where Burlesque, Acrobatics, Singing, and Circus Arts intertwine in the heart of Old Town, Key West. The Rabbit concocts magical potions served in extraordinary ways, immersing your senses in a wonderland of delight.
🌐 Explore Further:
- Website: Follow The Rabbit Bar
- Instagram: Follow The Rabbit Bar on Instagram
🕒 Operating Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 6 pm-Midnight
232 - A Heartfelt Thank You & Our Top Episode of 2023!
🎙️ Introduction: In this special episode, we want to express our sincere gratitude to all of our amazing listeners, social media followers, and those who support us in-store. Thank you for being a crucial part of our podcast journey. Your support means the world to us!
🙏 Thank You Message: To everyone who has tuned in, followed us on social media, visited our store, and to all those whose paths have crossed ours – a heartfelt THANK YOU! Your support fuels our passion for creating content.
231 - Key West Island Books: A Journey from Service to Passion
Join Mark Baratto in this episode as he delves into the fascinating journey of Suzanne Orchard, the owner of Key West Island Books. From a lucrative career in the service industry to passionately pursuing her love for books, Suzanne shares her inspiring story.
Discover the insights and wisdom scattered throughout the episode, including the pivotal "moment" when Suzanne recognized the right time to chase her dreams. Tune in for a captivating conversation that unveils the unique blend of passion, determination, and the pursuit of a lifelong dream. Whether you're a book enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking inspiration, this episode is sure to leave you with valuable takeaways and a renewed sense of motivation.
230 - Sitting with Kit to Talk about Angelina's Pizza
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Kit Carson, the Earl of Pizza.
We talk about how he came to help a friend open up a little place called "Rick's" decades ago, why he stayed and became the "Earl of Pizza" and why he started his successful YouTube show and podcast, "Sit with Kit."
229 - The owner of Red Bike Brand, Venter Surf & Sport, Southernmost Surf Shop and Jag Gallery, Letty Nowak
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with artist, surf show fanatic and serial entrepreneur, Letty Nowak.
We talk about her humble beginnings in Key West, her first art gallery, surf shop and how she now manages all of 7 of her businesses along side her family life with her husband, Mauricio. FYI, she also painted the iconic, "Greetings from KEY WEST" sign on the Cuban Coffee Queen building.
228 - Drawn to Key West book with illustrator & author Theresa Chiechi
227 - Key West: A Smuggler's Tale, by Richard "Conch Boy" Gomez
226 - Setting Yourself up for Financial Success with Teo Masters & Carl Schutze
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Teo Masters and Carl Schutze with Primerica Financial Services. We talk about creating long-term wealth, how to get yourself out of debt, and the proper way to set yourself up for financial freedom.
225 - XINSURANCE Owner Rick Lindsey on Sponsoring the Powerboat Races
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with XINSURANCE owner, Rick J. Lindsey.
We talk about sponsoring the Powerboat races, helicopter flying, and of course, insurance.
224 - Four Flamingos a Richard Blais Key West Kitchen