Tales From South Florida

It's Part 2 of the TFSF reminiscences of celebrating the holidays in South Florida in yesteryear. This time though, I'd like you to join me on a special TALK Down Memory Lane as I recall our annual Christmas trips to Little Rock, Ak.

These were incredibly special times, wish I'd appreciated that back then, and no matter your past celebrations I think you'll find some part of you and your family in this ...

The holidays in South Florida might be different than in other parts of the country but they are no less memorable.
Join me as I recall the people places and events from those December traditions of  yesteryear and today that warm our hearts.
From driving around town to enjoy entire neighborhoods aglow with Christmas lights, to caroling with high school friends, to celebrating the annual Winterfest Boat Parade, this is the ...

In this episode of Tales from South Florida, we dive deep into the 100ʳᵗʰ anniversary of the iconic Freedom Tower in downtown Miami. We trace its journey from a 1925 newspaper skyscraper to the famed “Ellis Island of the South” for Cuban refugees, and now a restored museum celebrating migration, memory and hope. Join us for a warm and conversational stroll through Miami’s past, present and cultural heartbeat.
 
#FreedomTow...

Halloween is coming soon and there are almost as many scary stories about Florida to be told than there are waves at a beach. And it seems that some of them may be true.

Yes, I know, legends abound everywhere but in Florida we grow them big, loud, and...smelly?

You've heard of Bigfoot? Sasquatch? The Abominable Snowman? Well get ready to meet, our very own Skunk Ape.

Join me for another TALK Down Memory Lane as we explore another...

Hollywood, Florida is turning 100 this year! But what do you get a city that’s celebrating a full century of sunshine, stories, and South Florida style?

In this special centennial episode, we’re honoring one of Hollywood’s own — a hometown talent who traded our palm-lined boulevards for the glitz of Hollywood, California. It’s a journey that bridges two coasts and two versions of the same dream: from the beaches of Broward County to...

The history of gambling in South Florida is as colorful as it is nostalgic. On this TALK Down Memory Lane, we dive into the world of smoky jai alai frontons, the thrill of betting on Joey and other players, and those unforgettable “cruises to nowhere” where the real destination was the blackjack table.

From Meyer Lansky and the mob’s early casinos in Hallandale, to the neon-lit days of the SeaEscape and SunCruz ships, all the way to...

We're celebrating International Podcast Day today! Thank you for your support of my podcasts, Tales from South Florida and Bill Monty's Guide for Getting Older, BUT, if you've ever wondered what I listen to, I'm gonna tell you here.

I hope that you will give these independent podcasters a listen because they are the heart and soul of podcasting around the world. 

So, hit that play button and let's get started...

On August 4, 2025, South Florida media history was made. After more than 60 years as a major TV network affiliate, WPLG Local 10 boldly stepped away to reinvent itself as an independent powerhouse in Miami-Fort Lauderdale broadcasting.

What really happened behind the scenes? Why now? And what does this bold move mean for the future of local television in South Florida?

In this episode of Tales From South Florida, I sit down with WPLG...

In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we wrap up our series on the Gilded Age of South Florida with my favorite figure from that era: Addison Mizner. And "character" is the perfect word to describe him.

From humble beginnings to becoming the visionary architect of Palm Beach and Boca Raton, Mizner had no formal training in architecture, yet he went on to design some of Florida’s most iconic landmarks. His story is o...

The Gilded Age Series

Step into the riveting saga of Carl Fisher, a visionary from Indiana whose passion for bicycles blossomed into an unparalleled legacy. From pioneering the Indianapolis Speedway to constructing the nation's inaugural East-West highway and later the groundbreaking Dixie Highway, Carl's relentless drive reshaped the American landscape.

But his most daring venture awaited in Miami Beach, where he sought to...

Let's Take a TALK Down Memory Lane. 

The Gilded Age Series

In the second episode of "The Men Who Built South Florida" we delve into the life and legacy of George Edgar Merrick, a man whose vision shaped the very landscape of Coral Gables, leaving an indelible mark on history. Despite his pivotal role in designing iconic institutions, roads, cities, and hotels, his name remains obscured to many living in the shadows of ...

If The Gilded Age ever took a detour to South Florida, Charles and James Deering would be front and center—visionaries whose influence shaped more than just opulent estates. In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we explore how these two brothers helped preserve Florida’s natural beauty while infusing its landscape with European elegance and cultural sophistication.

🏛️ From the lush grounds of the Deering Estate to the grande...

🏝️ Key Biscayne: Paradise with a Past It’s been a haven for pirates, parrots, porpoises—and even presidents. Nestled just off the coast of Miami, Key Biscayne is one of South Florida’s most breathtaking gems. From sun-kissed beaches and winding bike trails to its iconic lighthouse and presidential legacy, this island has stories to tell.

Join Bill Monty for a captivating Talk Down Memory Lane as he uncovers the rich, colorful histo...

🌴 Step into Old Florida Charm at Flamingo Gardens 🦩 Travel back in time and uncover the roots of one of Broward County’s most beloved family-friendly destinations—Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida. From lush botanical gardens and rescued wildlife to vintage homes and engaging tram tours, this hidden gem offers a vibrant glimpse of Florida as it once was, at the dawn of the 20th century.

But how did it all begin? Like many treasur...

Heartbreak can shatter some, but for one man, it became the foundation—literally—for a marvel that has baffled engineers and mystics alike. In Homestead, Florida, Edward Leedskalnin built Coral Castle as a tribute to the woman who left him at the altar. Standing just 5 feet tall and weighing only 100 pounds, Ed moved and carved massive coral stones—some weighing several tons—without machinery and allegedly without help.

Decades late...

Discover the untold story of a Florida legend, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, on a journey through the remarkable life of the woman who gave voice—and fierce protection—to the Florida Everglades. You may recognize her name from a school or street sign, but her legacy runs far deeper. From her roots in Minneapolis to becoming the first female reporter at the Miami Herald and ultimately penning the book that redefined the future of the Su...

If you are lucky, you will meet many people who will mentor you, provide guidance and be a friend. Such a man was Joe Cappello, the Theater teacher at Broward Community college when I was a young man. 

Take a TALK Down Memory Lane with me as I recall when Broward College was less than it is today, but it was also so much more. and the people that taught us were the last of their kind.

Text me your favorite South Florida memory.

S...

From 1949 to 1985, Ralph Renick was THE single most important News Anchor in South Florida. His informed, straightforward style made you feel comfortable, while his signature sign-off, "Good night and may the good news be yours" was a reassuring comment of hope in dark days. 

Many have followed in his footsteps but none have equalled his accomplishments. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane with me and revisit one of South Florida...

Step into the vibrant world of South Florida’s legendary musicians—singers, songwriters, and trailblazers who redefined the music industry and left an undeniable mark on culture.

From the soulful sounds of Sam and Dave to the infectious energy of KC and the Sunshine Band, and the unstoppable reign of Gloria Estefan, these icons shaped the soundtrack of our lives. 

Join me as I honor their legacies, dive into their incredibl...