Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

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 national humane organization. Monroe County funds a contract for FKSPCA to provide animal control services in our jurisdiction, yet for additional community services we provide, we rely on grants, fundraising and donations from supporters like you to help us provide a high standard of care for our animals. Florida Keys SPCA provides adoption services, essential animal care, as well as animal control & cruelty investigations under contract with Monroe County. Florida Keys SPCA has operated the Key West animal shelter on St

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 daughter and one of nine children; my mother home-schooled me, affording me plenty of free time to draw and paint, two of my favorite things. Key West has an artistic vibe: not only is it gorgeous and chromatic, but artists from around the world gather here and pool their knowledge. It's easy to feed off that vibe and learn from those artists!  One thing artists here love to depict are conch houses. Cute homes constructed by Bahama immigrants in Key West during the 19th century. They get their name from the conch shell because peop

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 purveyor of dreams follower of the heart wanderer (see also: mermaid, unicorn, pirate) We count ourselves among a hand full of brave, wild, and fun-loving explorers who followed their wandering souls to the land of sand and sun. We strive to bring a sense of youth, style and paradise to all through our “adventure” woodworking, apparel and wanderlust lifestyle. A Lost Boy knows what it means to truly live. A Lost Boy follows his or her passion. Lost Boys do not fall into one religion, gender, race, orientation, or title. We roam until we find our path. To conform is not in our DNA. Our passions are our professions. The lifestyle of a Lost Boy is

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 and the Florida Keys. Shopping Mom and Pop businesses support our neighbors and families who live in Key West and the Florida Keys. Mom and Pop’s are the folks who make up our Island communities. These are the folks who are always there for us, who say hello, who remember you, and who make our lives better even when we are busy. Mom and Pop businesses are always there for us with a smile. Support Key West, support the Florida Keys: Shop Mom and Pop. Website: https://shopmomandpop.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sho

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 he suffered from his first panic attack. After many months of feeling lost, Scott did what any reasonable person did; he sold all of his stuff and build a tiny house out of his Sprinter Van. Scott found himself driving all over the country and documenting his journey. A journey which you can find on his YouTube channel called, "Once a Stranger, Now a Friend." As someone who loves to meet new people, I created a little summer journey meeting random strangers and documenting the experiences I have with them, all through the p

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 barber! Specializing in men's style haircuts and beard trimming and up keep. Ask about beard hair care products and more. *Must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. Non-Alcoholic beverages are also available for those who do not drink and or are not of age. Minors are to be accompanied by an adult. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beardsandbrewsbarbershop/ Location: 5450 MacDonald Ave Unit 6, Key West, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 292-1460

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 West” Martin said. JD Martin (Smuggler Jim) is a 5th generation whiskey maker from Kentucky.  The Martin family is well known for producing only the best quality spirits. They never used flavorings to hide the taste and the flagship product utilizes a recipe that has been unchanged since 1883. JD is the first Martin to “go legal” in 136 years.  ‘I am very proud of my heritage.  I grew up in a very unique way and learned values that aren’t taught much these days. My grandfather was my mentor.  He taught me how to run liquor start

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 specials. We do special requests, & takeout catering! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thejerkkw/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Thejerkkw/ Address 6404 Front St Key West, FL 33040 Phone:  (305) 407-0331 Open everyday: 10:30AM - 10:30PM

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 this Thanksgiving of 2021. Owners Steve Kibbe and Hannia Rivera have been a part of Key West for over 25 years.   Steve arrived in Key West via Sacramento, California, however he is often seen around town in an Eagles jersey.    Hannia, a diehard Redskins fan, arrived in Key West via Annapolis, MD is often seen wearing  her "I hate Dallas" t-shirt around town. As lifelong restauranteurs and bar managers, Steve and Hannia are fortunate to have realized their dream of owning this little piece of hidden paradise.   W

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 Anderson, Jeff Bates, Halfway To Hazard and John Michael Montgomery to name a few. More recently Luke Bryan cut “Too Damn Young” on Luke’s triple-platinum album Tailgates and Tanlines. Arlis also had the honor of co-producing his song “Good Morning Sunrise” on Jamey Johnson’s Grammy and ACM nominated album. Arlis saw some chart success with “Won’t Be Lonely Long” by Josh Thompson, reaching number 25 on the Billboard charts. Arlis’s songs have been placed in Nissan commercials as well as the television show “The Voice” Website: http

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 object of functional art using self-taught traditional wood techniques that set the stage for my present work. While traveling and living aboard, which we did for 11 years, I began my transition from boatwork to sculpture." Read About Their Journey In Sailing Down The Mountain: A Costa Rican Adventure More on Harrison Gallery Located in the southernmost city in the continental United States, Harrison Gallery has become a local institution, earning a reputation as a destination for some of the best fine art in the area. A

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, and fishermen would tell their stories of the sweet sirens' songs. This fin-tastic five-day event will unite the Key West locals and tourists, our neighboring Keys, visiting mermaid communities, and mermaid enthusiasts from around the world, on our magical little island. Family friendly, with fun for all, join us as we raise awareness for our beautiful oceans and educate all humans to swim safely in mermaid tails. #TheTakeOverIsReel we like to say, and we look forward to getting salty with all of the captains and mermaids wh

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 famed arts and entertainment of Duval Street, world-renowned fishing, diving, and Mallory Square's breathtaking daily Sunset Celebration! For more information about your cruising experience and what you need for your journey, please click below to view their Your Experience page. Website: https://www.keywestexpress.net Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keywestexpress/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeyWestExpress Twitter: https://twitter.com/keywestexpress Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/keywestexpress/

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 West and his awesome Backyards of Key West Instagram account and podcast, we also kind of geeked out about podcasting and marketing. I hope that if you have ever been on the fence about starting that podcast or other creative project, that this episode will inspire you! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blamebuffettpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlameBuffettPod/ Anchor.FM: https://anchor.fm/blamebuffettpod

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 Weekly: https://keysweekly.com/42/key-west-gallery-showcases-girl-power-and-art/ Location: 5700 4th Avenue Stock Island, FL 33040 Email: acredspacekeywest@gmail.com Hours: 10AM - 6PM Meet the Creators Bella Laine by Emily Shipman Website: https://bellalaineart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellalaineart/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellalaineart Whimsy Key West by Barbara Sage Website: https://www.whimsykeywest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whimsykeywest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whimsyke

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 road, A1A that is, and found Key West.  It truly was love at first sight. We met in Alaska and since then have been looking for a place that reminded us of that frontier spirit… we found it in Key West. As often as we can we travel back to Key West and enjoy every minute we have on the Island.  Our youngest lives in Florida, so it gives us a great excuse to stop in and say “hi” to him before we travel down to the Keys.  Our boys finally were able to take a trip to the Keys and now have been bitten by the bug…. the Key Wes

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 Tortugas National Park & Fort Jefferson aboard the Yankee Freedom III Ferry! Cruise in spacious comfort to Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National Park aboard the Yankee Freedom III, a high-speed ocean-going catamaran specifically designed for carrying passengers safely across the 70 miles of open water from Key West to the Park. The Yankee Freedom II is 100’ long and 60’ wide, a broad and stable vessel certified to carry 250 passengers; however, to maximize the comfort of each guest, we limit each trip to 175 passengers.

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tom Carbone, the owner of Carbone's Custom Firearms. We discuss how Tom got into the business and his passion for bringing firearm safety and understanding to the Florida Keys. Whether you are a gun lover or not, this is a great episode to get the understand from someone who has been in the business for decades. More on Carbone's Custom Firearms The Florida Keys longest established Class 2 Manufacturer and SOT holder. Rock River Arms Inc Law Enforcement dealer in Monroe County. We have been supplying the needs of Military and Law Enforcement around the country. We are now open and ready to serve all residents of Monroe County and the country. Come to the only firearms business where we have walked the walk and talked the talk. No flash, no fluff. Website: https://www.keywestguns.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carbonescustom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCFKW/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-r-carbone-86a26a1b/ 6810 Front Street, Unit 2

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Key West City Manager Greg Veliz (before the Covid-19 pandemic). We talked about Greg's journey from Conch to elected official, and all the bumps in-between. I love and admire Greg's tenacity and hope this episode teaches you that anything can happen with the right attitude. More on Greg Veliz The City Manager’s Department provides executive leadership in the management of all departments and enterprises of the City. The City Manager reports to the Mayor and Commissioners and responds to the needs of the public by proactively seeking public feedback. Website: https://www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov/395/City-Manager

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Hillary to talk about how she became a stylist, how she made her way down to Key West, and why she decided to open her own Beauty Lounge right in the middle of the Covid-19 crisis. This episode is loaded with inspiration and is worth listening to (whether you are into hair or not :). More on Cayo Beauty Lounge by Hillary Our mission is to inspire the community of women by offering a unique and refreshing vibe, while providing top notch hair care and focusing on what we do best. Beautiful natural looking hair that turnsheads. Meet Hillary. Some call her the ‘hairwizard’, Hillary is the owner of Cayo Beauty Lounge. She prides herself on her innate ability to really listen to the clients wants and needs and turning it into a masterpiece. Her style signature look is creating a perfect low maintenance color that stays beautiful overtime. Hillary loves trendy hair with a classic and natural appeal. Her advanced cutting training has allowed her to give each and every woma