Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

In this episode Mark Baratto sits down as a guest on the Tiki Man Radio Show. It was fun being on the other side of the mic for a change as we scratched the surface on how I began the Backyards of Key West brand, the podcast and created the art that I sell in our gallery located at The Shops at Mallory Square in Key West. Helpful links from the interview Tiki Man Radio Show: https://www.tikimanradio.com Backyards of Key West: https://backyardsofkeywest.com Video Tour of our Gallery: https://youtu.be/QwalgzE4hOs Directions to the Gallery at 291 Front Street, Key West, FL: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Backyards+of+Key+West+Gallery/@24.5588275,-81.8092099,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xb1425f6c55278daa!8m2!3d24.5587609!4d-81.8067969

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Matt and Lisa, the adventure seekers behind the YouTube show and the adventures of their Sailing Vessel "Bye Felicia." We talk about how the two met and how they are living their dream of adventure on the sea. More on Sailing Bye Felicia Sailing Bye Felicia is the story of Matt and Lisa, and their new Sailboat, soon to be named the Sailing Vessel Bye Felicia, currently in Key West, Florida. Watch as they learn their way around Bye Felicia through repairs and upgrades with the goal of sailing around the world! We want to share our lives to show and inspire others to take hold of their lives and live their dreams. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCgnl4HudxsHR17BVd3S12A Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailingbyefelicia/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Canan Dilek, the designer and owner of Pera Company. We talk about how she started her Turkish towel company and how she made the leap from doing the farmers market circuit to opening her own store in the Shops at Mallory Square. More on Pera Company Website: https://www.peracompany.co Instagram: https://instagram.com/peracompany Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peracompanyllc An inspiring journey through beautiful, serene villages of the Turkish countryside truly moved me to share my passion for artisan Turkish Towels with you! On my trip the selfless and humble people left a lasting impression. The incredibly refreshing warmth and care experienced while meeting with families of weavers during my road trip mirror the craft of the pieces exactly. It was amazing to see the talent within those skilled, loving hands – the authenticity is unmatched! It was easy to fall in love with such soft and rich towels. They are made with Aegean cotton/linen blend and an intrica

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the incredible Don Oriolo. We talk about Don's career with the Felix the Cat franchise, his first encounter meeting John Lennon, his fond memories of recently deceased Meat Loaf, and a surprise visit from Felix the Cat himself ;) This interview bounces all around the spectrum of Don's incredible life... only scratching the surface! More on Don Oriolo & Zazoo Fine Art Gallery Don Oriolo is an American artist, musician, and writer best known for his work in the music publishing industry and for overseeing the Felix the Cat cartoon franchise after his father, Felix co-creator Joe Oriolo, died in 1985. Don Oriolo also owns and operates the Oriolo Guitar Company, a guitar, bass, and ukulele manufacture company whose products often feature Felix and other Oriolo-designed artwork. Oriolo has also authored a number of books featuring his paintings of Felix the Cat, whom he describes as his creative muse. Some of his music publishing credentials include writing Jon Bon

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Philip Spottswood, the director of Food And Beverage at Spottswood Companies. Philip took us on a tour down memory lane on how he built his business smarts though hard work and tenacity. He also gave us some insight on how the Spottswood Companies not only care about the community, but equally as much for the tourists that visit our city every day. This type of episode is my favorite because there are too many lessons to list. More on Tavern N Town Located just off the Grand Lobby of our hotel is the Tavern N Town restaurant – fast becoming one of Key West’s most popular attractions. Here luxury surroundings and the simple pleasures of life come together in perfect harmony. And here you will find as many reasons to linger as there are tempting items on our inspired menu. Your choices range from steakhouse favorites to the incomparable seafood bounty that has brought visitors to Key West for generations. What’s more, we welcome you and your guests to sit directly in

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with chief baker Desirae Caldwell of Caldwell Cookies. We talked about how a hobby turned into a dream job and how Desirae is balancing her business with her life, one cookie at a time! More on Caldwell Cookies Delicious handmade cookies in Key West, Florida Current price is $75/dozen kw_sball@yahoo.com Website: https://caldwell-cookies.square.site Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellcookies/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaldwellCookies

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Cristina Velardi, the creator and designer of Cocky Key West Apparel, to discuss her first ever party called Cockstock. Cocky Key West is turning 5 years old in March! Come celebrate with us at the Cockiest Sandbar Party to hit the Keys. About this event Date and time Sat, March 5, 2022 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM EST Add to calendar Meeting Location Garrison Bight Marina 711 Eisenhower Drive  Key West, FL 33040 Purchase a ticket to hop on one of our party charter boats, or simply purchase a ticket to attend with your own boat.  Boat charter transportation provided by Barefoot Billy's and Salty Bottom Charters Musical magic all day provided by DJ Chaka of The Five Spot Food provided by Graze Craze and Dion's Quik Chik Serving up all of your CockyTails, will be the Tutu Queen herself, Jenn Stefanacci of 22&Co. The cockiest Bag-O-Swag Sandbar Games To get tickets, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cockstock-2022-tickets-239188668747 For more on my previous episode on

In the episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Kyle Carter to talk about a whole lot of live music... AGAIN!! The first time we sat together was on December of 2019 and a lot has changed (listen to the previous episode here). For one thing, Kyle and his team has added another festival called the RokIsland Fest, where the world's greatest rock bands come together to smash eardrums. More on RokIsland Fest What is RokIsland Fest? The world’s greatest rock bands descend upon the island of Key West for a 4-day music festival in paradise. When is RokIsland Fest? January 14th – January 17th, 2022! Do not miss the inaugural event, this will be the rock show of the year that you just cannot miss. Where is RokIsland Fest? The southernmost city in the U.S., Key West, Florida! We utilize the Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheater, a beautifully designed facility on the Gulf waters of Key West. This boutique venue offers an unparalleled view from every conceivable spot; rather it is a VIP tent, or a blanket spread out on the gr

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with singer-songwriter Jeffrey Steele. We talk about how he fell in love with country music, all the musicians that influenced his style, and what he's up to lately. More on Jeffrey Steele Jeffrey Steele, is an American country music singer and songwriter. Along with recording his own material, Steele has become a prolific Nashville songwriter, having co-written more than 60 hit songs for such artists as Montgomery Gentry, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, LeAnn Rimes, Rascal Flatts, Billy Ray Cyrus, and others. Between 1990 and 1996, Steele was the lead singer and bass guitarist in the country music band Boy Howdy, which recorded two albums and an EP on Curb Records, in addition to charting seven singles on the Billboard country music charts. After Boy Howdy disbanded, Steele embarked on a solo career, recording seven studio albums (one of which was not released). He also charted four singles as a solo artist, with the highest-peaking ("Somethin' in the Water") reaching No. 33 o

In the episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Judge Edwin A. Scales, III to the Third District Court of Appeal, who also happens to be a DJ on local station 104.1. We talk about his love for music and how he never gave up on his dream, while still being a local District Court Judge. More on Ed Scales, III Ed’s show—oddly named “The Ed Scales Show”—airs on US-1 Radio most Sundays from 11am-2pm. The show has aired on US-1 Radio for over two decades and continues the station’s tradition of nontraditional radio, Florida Keys-style. No one (other than Bill Becker) has been on-the-air at US-1 Radio longer. Management of the station is as puzzled as everyone else as to why this is the case. No matter how often we change the locks to keep Ed out, Ed finds a way into the studio to do his show. Trust us, if it weren’t for his impeccable musical taste, we’d call the cops! While it’s hard to describe Ed’s show with any particularity, suffice to say that he plays a wide variety of great rock and roll. Ed regularly sneaks do

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with photographer and artist, Chris Gunderson. We talk about how he got started, how his first art show went, and how he manages his career with his art. More on Chris Gunderson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_gun/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chris, the creator of the amazing social media account, @StaySaltyFlorida. We talk about how Chris got started with social media, where the brand is going, and some tips on growing your account :). More on Stay Salty Florida For the love of, Salt, Sand, Sea and the Sun!! Florida's number 1 information resource on Facebook, Everything Florida! Beaches, Resorts, Restaurants and More! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staysaltyflorida Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StaySalty

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Key West Yoga Sanctuary owner & Yogi, Erika Hawks. We talk about how she got started in yoga, her daily practice, the studio, and a couple of small practices that have changed her life. More on the Key West Yoga Sanctuary Key West Yoga Sanctuary is a space for each of us to relax, learn, and connect. Yoga gives us the opportunity to slow down and connect to an awareness of ourselves that protects and promotes health and well being of the body and mind. Key West Yoga Sanctuary and Yoga for the Environment are passionate about taking an additional step to extend this awareness and consciousness from the internal to the external world. This can include learning about and understanding other cultures or utilizing and experiencing true eco-concsious practices with sustainable materials made with zero toxic emissions. In turn, these efforts will cultivate community, compassion, and peace in our yoga practice, our daily lives, and our universe as a whole Website: http

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Azie, the artist, designer and owner of the incredible Marrero's Guest Mansion. We talk about the properties history, hauntings, and all the properties they own. More on Marrero's Guest Mansion Marrero's was originally a private home, built in 1890-1891 by Francisco Marrero, a prominent local cigar maker. He promised the house to his beloved, Enriquetta Marrero, as a forever home to raise their family together. Some say their legacy lives on in the form of a benevolently spirited energy passing through the halls of the old house. Experience the grandeur of their stately Victorian home, thoughtfully updated and lovingly converted into a boutique hotel. The original architectural details of our historic estate remain intact while modern renovations throughout the house provide guests with the best of both old and new Key West hospitality. Our location in the heart of Old Town, just half a block from Duval Street, provides prime access to all of the restaurants, bars,

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tiki Man Radio head DJ and creator, Danny Lynn. We talk about how the station started, how he grew his fanbase, and how he has moved into the local event business, bringing the kind of music he loves, to the places he loves. More on Tiki Man Radio Tiki Man Radio Tikimanradio.com "Your Coastal Americana Radio" Tiki Man radio is your place to escape the crazy round ball we all inhabit that at times seems to be spinning out of control. Take a break from the daily grind with some island time and Tiki Man Radio. We are committed to growing what we call Coastal American Music which in its nature means escapism Website: https://www.tikimanradio.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TikiManRadio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tikimanradio/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tikimanradio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TikiManRadio

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with floral designer Natalie McIntyre. We talk about how she got started, her love for having flowers everywhere, and how she creates the perfect work-life balance. More on Bespoke Floral Design “I must have flowers always, and always.” Claude Monet. Bespoke Floral Design was created with this famous quote in mind. Everyone should have fresh beautiful flowers always and always! Flowers aren’t just something you send; they tell a story on your behalf. We offer the perfect blend of contemporary and traditional arrangements, and located in the Heart of Old Town at the Historic Clinton Square Mall. Bespoke Floral Design specializes in Weddings and Events of all sizes. We devote a discerning eye to every detail, making sure every event and arrangement is perfectly crafted and executed. Our mission at Bespoke Floral Design is to operate with a constant enthusiasm for learning, being open to implementing new ideas, and maintaining a willingness to adapt to evolving trends and

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Coley Faircloth to talk about his lifestyle brand with a mission to help the ocean reefs. More on The Grateful Diver Grateful Diver was created in 1995 when Grateful Dead co-founder and drummer Bill Kruetzmann, an avid diver, had the inspiration to design a Grateful Diver logo by placing the iconic Grateful Dead lightning bolt on a red dive flag. Kruetzmann then granted Coral Forest, a nonprofit coral reef conservation organization, the rights to use it for marine conservation fundraising initiatives. Bob Weir, Grateful Dead co-founder and rhythm guitarist was a member of the Coral Forest board of directors. In 1998, Coral Forest merged with Reef Relief (reefrelief.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the coral reef ecosystem through education and outreach in the Florida Keys. Permission to use the Grateful Diver logo was then passed on to them. Over the years, Grateful Diver merchandise has been sold online and used in many events

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jennifer Potter, a published author and amazing jewelry designer. We talk about how her first book was a viral smash hit, how her jewelry line is making waves, and how her next book is all about what's happening under the sheets :) More on Jennifer Potter Website: https://jenniferpotterjewelry.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/JENNIFERPOTTERJEWELRY Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JENNIFERPOTTERJEWELRY/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jenniferpotterjewelry/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jpotterjewelry A Florida native, Jennifer Potter began her career as a hip-hop wardrobe stylist working with award winning directors such as, Hype Williams and Gil Green. Jennifer has had the opportunity to dress some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B. After a decade of dressing and styling in Miami, Jennifer decided to venture into the world of fine jewelry. Jennifer acquired her love of jewelry and obsession with layering from her beloved Cuban-American grandmot

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Billy Kearins of Coast Projects. This is our second time sitting down for an interview, the first was about his iconic local brand found HERE. In this interview, we talk about Billy's music and arts festival know as the COAST is Clear, happening on December 4th. We talk about how he came up with the idea and how he is keeping Key West a boutique music town with big acts, without arena size seating. ATTENTION!! How would you like to win 2 FREE tickets to this years festival! We are running a contest on our social media channels. All you need to do to enter is go to my Facebook or Instagram account and like the COAST IS CLEAR post (it will be the one with the snippet of this interviewing playing) and TAG 3 people in the comments Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backyardsofkeywest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backyardsofkeywest Tag 3 people in the comment section We will pick a winner on Friday October 29th. More on the COAST is Clear Music & Arts Fes

In today's episode, Mark Baratto sits down with professional hairstylist and makeup artist, Julie Hill. We talk about how she got started and how she shifted all her products to eco friendly and organic while still keeping your look fabulous. I was hoping all of this hair talk would help with some hair growth on my bald dome, but needless to say, I'm still hairless