BringJoy

This is a Conch Legend Episode. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Victor Gallardo, a Key West native and baseball legend, as he shares stories from his childhood, playing days, coaching career, and his deep love for Conch baseball. Discover the rich history, community spirit, and timeless lessons that define Conch baseball and its impact on generations.

Victor Gallardo’s stories are a testament to the vibrant culture, athle...

What happens when a musician sails into Key West, finds a stage within 48 hours, and spends the next four decades turning island life into melody and memory? We sit down with Ben Harrison—singer, author, playwright, and local historian—to uncover how music and baseball braided together to shape Key West culture, pride, and identity.

Ben takes us back to late-afternoon sets at the Pier House and long runs at the Bull on Duv...

The rhythm of Key West lives in more than palm-lined streets and sunset applause—it lives in the hands of kids learning steel pan, the breath behind a sax, and the beat of a second line that heals a community. We sit down with Executive Director Kawana from the Bahama Village Music Program to explore how free music education keeps Bahamian and Cuban roots alive while opening new doors with a DJ class that pulls teens into the fold....

Ever wonder how a small island builds a baseball program that feels bigger than life? We sit down with Coach Ralph to chart a 2026 campaign loaded with horsepower on the mound, smarter at-bats, and a schedule designed to harden the team for the regional gauntlet. From bringing the Pace rivalry back to Key West to targeting showcase venues like Mark Light, every choice raises the ceiling and sharpens the edge.

We take you b...

This is a Conch Legend Episode. In this conversation, Joy Nulisch interviews Bobby Menendez, a revered figure in Key West known as Mr. Conch Pride. They discuss the meaning of Conch Pride, the legacy of the Menendez-Miler Scholarship, and Bobby's journey from a multi-sport athlete to a dedicated coach and educator. Bobby shares heartfelt memories of growing up in Key West, the influence of key figures in his life, and the impo...

We sit with Key West’s own Mike Stack to trace how a hometown anthem grew into free community concerts, big stages, and a culture of giving back. The talk ranges from creative risk and collaboration to family support, Conch Pride, and measuring success on your own terms.

• New Year’s Eve Eve show details and sponsors
• Free concerts as community gatherings
• Fundraising for local needs and teams
• The making of...

In this engaging conversation, Billy Wardlow shares his extensive journey in baseball, from his early days in Key West to his current role with the Toronto Blue Jays. He reflects on the excitement of the World Series, the importance of building relationships within the sport, and the challenges of equipment management. Wardlow also offers valuable advice for young athletes and emphasizes the significance of community and passion in...

We sit down with Coach Tommy Butler to map the identity of Key West High School basketball—defense first, relentless pace, and a standard built on connection. Discussing feeder programs to family legacy on Bill Butler Court, the path back to district glory runs through toughness, shooting reps, and the community that shows up.

• team identity of pressure defense, rebounding, and transition
• renewed shooting focus and ...

We celebrate Special Olympics champion and Hall of Famer Jennifer Averett, from Seattle gold to Key West homecomings, and explore how volunteers, coaches, and art fuel her life of Conch Pride. Stories span three decades of competition, deep family roots, and a call to support  Monroe County athletes.

• Thirty-plus years competing across stand-up paddle, swimming, soccer, cycling
• Seattle national games gold and the ai...

In this conversation, Joy Nulisch speaks with Atavia about the inception and mission of Helping Hands of the Florida Keys, a nonprofit organization created to support working-class families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the importance of community trust, the challenges of running a nonprofit, and the significance of family legacy in community service. Atavia shares personal stories about the impact of the organ...

We sit with community champion Michelle Mira Cohen to trace how the Key West Junior Football League blends legacy, and service into a living tradition on George Mira Field. It takes a village keeps Conch pride alive.

• Legacy of George Mira and meaning of the field name
• 24 years of service and the league’s 63-year history
• Community outreach, celebrity chain gang, and volunteers
• Honoring coaches and naming...

A true Conch story of how a simple kickball league becomes a weekly ritual, keeps families close, and turns local pride into action. Michael Henriquez shares how mentors, multi-sport grit, and a deep family legacy shape coaching, camps, and community.

• Why a weekly kickball league beats one-day tournaments
• How “mid-game madness” cards make play inclusive and fun
• Eight teams, playoffs planned, and a kids’ day o...

We share how a small island built a big-time wrestling culture, and why adversity, family, and year-round work keep Key West competing with anyone. Coach Chaz traces the program’s roots, his own injury-to-purpose journey, and the rise of girls’ wrestling.

• founding of the Conch Republic Wrestling Club and early mentors
• synergy between wrestling and football for leverage, footwork and mindset
• state placers, rec...

Miguel Menendez, head coach of Tampa Jesuit Tigers baseball, shares his journey from Key West to leading one of Florida's premier high school programs. His deep family roots in baseball and coaching philosophy emphasize character development alongside athletic excellence.

• Comes from a legendary Key West baseball family including grandfather "Papa John" Menendez, "the Dean of Kennedy Drive"
• ...

Andrew Freeman, Key West High School's Athletic Director, shares an inside look at the thriving sports programs and upcoming season for the Conchs. The conversation covers everything from their exciting football victory to the breadth of sports offerings and student participation.

• Football team secured a thrilling 35-34 win against Homestead with over 400 yards rushing
• The Van Carthon Preseason Classic honored...

When a lifelong Miami Marlins supporter and a devoted Yankees fan cross paths at LoanDepot Park, baseball magic happens. Abel Restrain radiates pure passion for America's pastime, captivating everyone around him with his infectious energy and encyclopedic knowledge of the game.

Abel's journey from Nicaragua—where baseball reigns supreme—to becoming Miami's most enthusiastic Marlins fan offers a fascinating g...

Coach Judd Wise shares his journey through 40 years in Key West sports as a teacher, coach, athletic director, broadcaster, and now historian preserving the island's rich athletic legacy. His passion for documenting Key West's sporting achievements has uncovered remarkable statistics about local athletes who reached professional levels, including six Major League Baseball players, ten NFL players, and numerous state champ...

We're midway through the baseball season with the Yankees sitting between the Blue Jays and Red Sox, and despite some challenges, there are plenty of reasons to feel optimistic about our chances for the remainder of the season.

• Aaron Judge continues to chase history while adding to the Yankees legacy
• Giancarlo Stanton has found his swing again
• Jason Dominguez proving he's the real deal in the leadof...

Jewls and Jade Castillo, sisters and former Lady Conchs softball players, share their journey from players to coaches and their passion for developing the next generation of talent at Key West High School.

• Attending the College World Series in June – a dream trip with record attendance of over 100,000 people
• Professional softball's growing popularity with the AUSL now sponsored by Major League Baseball
• T...