Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

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!

Episodes

June 2, 2023 57 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with singer-songwriter, Howard Livingston.

We talk about how he started his career as a musician and how he is a successful musician with no agent or record label.

More on Howard Livingston

Howie actually did what many folks dream of doing: he gave up the workaday world, moved to the Florida Keys, and became a musician. He is a native of the mountains of eastern Kentucky and moved to Indiana ...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tucker's Provisions creator, and managing partner, Kurt Matarazzo.

We talk about the creation of the legendary apparel brand started, a little backstory on Kurt, and what's in store for the brand's expansion.  

More on Tucker's Provisions

Born from a time when people shopped for quality, Tucker’s Provisions collects together objects and apparel that stand the test...
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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the creators of Artfully Keys, Lance Berry, Sara Pasqueretta, and Chris Anderson. 

We talk about the Artfully Keys concept, bringing artists together, and trying to fine out #WheresErnesto

MORE ON ARTFULLY KEYS

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May 12, 2023 29 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jordan, the marketing mind behind the brand new speakeasy, Follow The Rabbit.

We talk about the concept, keeping the location secret and a rundown on what to expect.

More on Follow The Rabbit Speakeasy

Website:  https://www.followtherabbitbar.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/follow_the_rabbit_bar/

Hours:  Wednesday-Friday: 6pm-Midnight

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May 5, 2023 23 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Matthew Headley, the owner of Big Cheezees Pub and Grub restaurant.

We talk about the restaurant's concept and how it made it down to Key West, the new menu and the music.

More on Big Cheezees Pub and Grub

Website:  https://bigcheezeespubandgrubkw.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bigcheezeespubandgrub/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/BigCheezees/

Fresh Hand Tosse...

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April 28, 2023 28 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jacque, the General Manager of Amigos Tortilla Bar.  

We talk about the origin of Amigos, how they got that killer location, and, of course, their delicious food.

More on Amigos Tortilla Bar

AMIGOS is bringing it back to basics. Traditional Mexican street tacos are a humble but flavorful affair – seasoned meats and fresh seafood on handmade corn tortillas topped with combination...

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April 21, 2023 34 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the team at Mighty Cock.

We talk about why they all moved to Key West, their BBQ menu... and of course, the name :)

More on Mighty Cock BBQ

At Mighty Cock, our food is mighty crispy, fresh, and cooked to order! Our delicious recipes, marinades, and sauces pack a punch – try them all. Drop by for a quick bite and experience authentic Key West BBQ with a tropical twist. 

We’re loc...

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April 14, 2023 18 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Josh, the bar manager at the world-famous Smallest Bar.

We talk about why a month-long trip turned into a life-long love for Key West, how many people fit in the Smallest Bar, and some behind-the-bar stories ;)

More on the Smallest Bar Key West

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallestbarkeywest/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallest.bar

Location: 124 Duval St, Key Wes...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with professional martial artist and owner of Bone Island MMA, Eddy Aguiar.

We talk about how he got started in martial arts, his love for competing and helping kids fall in love with martial arts.

More on Bone Island MMA

Our mission at The KEY WEST PAL GYM is to create a relationship-based community that supports all who desire to better themselves through martial arts and fitness.

...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Carol Wightman, one of the owners of the famed Marquesa Hotel to discuss, what it takes to run a successful hotel, some famed guests that have stayed at the hotel, and what the "hotel life" in Key West really looks like.

Be on the listen for Carol's favorite places to dine (besides Cafe Marquesa), and some of her other local favorites.

More on The Hotel Marquesa

The Key West Hot...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down to get interviewed on the Living In Key West Podcast, with Stephanie & Greg.

We talk about my career path and how I became an artist and the genesis of the Backyards of Key West brand.

More on the Living In Key West Podcast

We are so excited to bring you island life via podcast. On our show we'll keep you caught up on what's happening in Key West, what the real estate market is doing...

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March 17, 2023 21 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Gallery 1:11 owner, Leigh Daniel.

We talk about her new gallery, the types of artists she curates, and why she moved the gallery to Key West.

More about Gallery 1:11

Gallery 111 is unlike any art gallery you've ever seen. The inspirational and cutting-edge art will both excite your imagination and soothe your soul, while the cozy, intimate space will instantly ...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chris D’Ignazi and Patrick Miller, the owners of Eaton Good.

 We talk about the variety of restaurants they used to own, their love for cooking with fire, and what makes their restaurant stand out.

More on Eaton Good

Wood-Fired Caribbean American Food located in Old Town Key West. Specializing in Wood-Fired Rotisserie Jerk Chicken, Smoked Meats, and Barbecue (BBQ). We offer Vege...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Ariel Willis, the creator of Southernmost Arcades.  

We talk about how Ariel grew up in Key West, her fond memory of games and the toy store here on the island, and how she is reviving that love one game at a time :)

More on Southernmost Arcades

Key West Exclusive Souvenirs & Novelty Toys!  Amusement machine Sales, Repairs, & Rentals Company. 

Website:  https://southernmostarcad...

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February 24, 2023 35 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Courtney Howard, the owner of Cocoplum Island Salon and Plant Babe.

We talk about how Courtney expanded her salon business by adding all her favorite things in one place.

More on Cocoplum Island Salon & Plant Babe

Hi there! I’m Courtney, and I’ve always been a creative mind. Life is more bright and fun sharing that connection with others. Sitting in my chair is all a...

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In this follow up interview from his first one years ago, Mark Baratto sits down with

Scott Saunders, the CEO, and creator of Fury Water Adventures Key West.

We talk about how the business did during the COVID lockdown, how the business has evolved for the better, and future plans for Fury.

More about Fury Water Adventures Key West

Key West’s most popular attraction is the crystal blue waters surrounding our island paradis...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with famed artists D. Arthur Wilson and Lisa Wilson of Wilson Signature Collection Fine Art Gallery.

We talk about how they both got started on their art journey and the origin of Rhupert by D. Arthur.

More about D. Arthur Willson

Embarking in the fourth decade on his artistic journey, D. Arthur Wilson constantly marvels at the adventure his life has become.   ...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Anna Turowska, the creator of Effortless Creations.

We talk about how she we from working with a wedding planner to making the jump and started her own business.

More on Effortless Creations

Website:  https://www.effortless-creations.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/effortlesscreationsinfo/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Effortless-Creations
Pinterest: ...

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In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with husband and wife Real Estate duo, Stephanie & Greg.

We talk about how they are using TikTok to grow their business, their new podcast, and how giving more than asking, is always a winning strategy.

More on The Little Island Group

We are Greg and Stephanie.  A couple of Florida natives and Real Estate Agents living out our island dreams in the Florida Keys.  We are lucky enough t...

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January 20, 2023 53 mins

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Brandie, the Director of Effusion Gallery Key West.

We talk about how Brandie got started in the art world and how she helped open Effusion Gallery in Key West.

About Effusion Gallery

EFFUSION GALLERY originated in 2004 in the historic Art Deco District of Miami Beach, in the heart of South Beach and its famed Ocean Drive.

In 2013 a second location was opened in Downtown Miami, ...

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