Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Rayza Zavaleta, the general manager of both Garbo's Grill locations. We talk about the history of Garbo's, their first location, how it ended up at Hank's Saloon, and why they had to move from the back to the front. More on Garbo's Grill Key West's TOP "HIDDEN GEM" as seen repeatedly on Food Network's Diner's Drive-In's & Dives!! Located at Hank's Hair...

In this episode, Mark Baratto has a role reversal and sits down with Thatcher Kezer on the "Business Talks Podcast with Boostbeam." Thatcher gets into the weeds on how I started as an artist and where my brand is headed. More on BoostBeam Website:   https://boostbeam.site/ Podcast:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thatcher-kezer If you want to rank first in your local area on google or nee...

Join Mark Baratto in this exciting episode as he chats with Neil Lindley, a self-proclaimed Rum Grand Master. Dive into Neil's journey into the world of rum, his inspiration behind creating Key West's first-ever Rum Festival, and explore some of the event highlights. This four-day festival, coinciding with National Rum Day on August 16, promises to be a spectacular celebration of rum culture. MORE...

Join host Mark Baratto as he dives into the colorful and eclectic world of "Woolly" Willie Alsedek, a master of storytelling whose life reads like a novel. In Episode 242, we unravel the threads of Willie's adventurous journey from aspiring filmmaker to beloved author and artist. Willie opens up about the serendipitous rock-paper-scissors game that propelled him into the realms of digital media an...

In this delectable episode, join host Mark Baratto as he dives into the heart of Key West's culinary scene with Scott Pridgen, Executive Director of A.H. Monroe. Discover the essence of the "Taste of Key West" event, a gastronomic festival that marries the love for food with a noble cause, with all proceeds supporting AHMonroe's initiatives. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Truman Waterfron...

Join Mark Baratto as he dives into the flavorful world of The Waggin' Wiggle, Key West's newest food truck sensation, with founders Bella Usenza and Alvaro Del Castillo. Discover the story behind their tropical slider paradise, from dream to delicious reality. Bella and Alvaro, seasoned veterans in the hospitality and service industry, share their journey of bringing The Waggin' Wiggle to life, th...

In this inspiring episode, host Mark Baratto sits down with Keith Hopkins, the other half of The Concierge Girl, to explore the adventurous journey and the thriving business he runs with Kelly Hopkins in Key West. Keith shares insights into their unique boat charter services, the innovative addition of golf carts, and the pivotal risks that led to unprecedented happiness and success. Dive deep int...

In This Episode: Join Mark Baratto as he sits down with the remarkably talented Ryan Halligan, the artist and visionary behind Phat Slabs. Dive into Ryan's captivating journey from his initial foray into woodworking and resin art to finding his true passion. Discover the inspirations drawn from the lush landscapes of Florida that fuel his creativity. Ryan also shares his aspirations, including the...

In this captivating episode, join Mark Baratto as he engages in a fascinating conversation with Susann D'Antonio, the esteemed president of the Key West Art Center & Gallery. Dive deep into the vibrant world of the 59th annual Key West Art & Craft Festival, a celebrated event that showcases an incredible array of art and crafts. Listen as we explore the rich tapestry of creativity that the festiva...

In this engaging episode, host Mark Baratto sits down with the talented craft cocktail maker and proud owner of Coasting Cocktails, Jessica. Join us as Jessica shares her inspiring journey into the world of mixology and recounts the pivotal steps she took to establish her business, which has quickly become a sensation at events. More on Coasting Cocktails a mobile craft cocktail company that is cu...

In this episode, join Mark Baratto in a conversation with Mariam Tvaliashvili, the visionary behind the transformation from KWSOAPS to E11DROPS. Discover the significant changes that have taken place in the three years since their last discussion. Mariam shares insights into the bold decisions she made, including expanding her team and doubling the storefront. Explore the global aspirations of the...

Join Mark Baratto in this delightful episode as he engages in a conversation with Buck Epstein, one of the masterminds behind Doozee Bespoke Ice Cream Bar Shop. Explore Buck's entrepreneurial journey, the allure of the ice cream business, and the innovative concepts reshaping the game. More on Doozzee Bespoke Ice Cream Bar Shop 🍦 Indulge in the reimagined world of ice cream at Doozee, where the t...

Join Mark Baratto in this exciting episode as he reunites with Jordan Upchurch, the brilliant mind behind the rejuvenated Follow The Rabbit speakeasy. Discover the enchanting world of Follow The Rabbit as they outgrow their space, delve into the secrets behind their success, and unveil their latest addition - delectable food! If you have not already, listen to our first interview  HERE . 🐇 More o...

🎙️  Introduction:  In this special episode, we want to express our sincere gratitude to all of our amazing listeners, social media followers, and those who support us in-store. Thank you for being a crucial part of our podcast journey. Your support means the world to us! 🙏  Thank You Message:  To everyone who has tuned in, followed us on social media, visited our store, and to all those whose pat...

Join Mark Baratto in this episode as he delves into the fascinating journey of Suzanne Orchard, the owner of Key West Island Books. From a lucrative career in the service industry to passionately pursuing her love for books, Suzanne shares her inspiring story. Discover the insights and wisdom scattered throughout the episode, including the pivotal "moment" when Suzanne recognized the right time to...

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with  Kit Carson, the Earl of Pizza at Angelina's Pizza. We talk about how he came to help a friend open up a little place called "Rick's" decades ago, why he stayed and became the "Earl of Pizza" and why he started his successful YouTube show and podcast, "Sit with Kit." More about Angelina's Pizza For over three decades, Angelina's Pizzeria has been the go...

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with artist, surf show fanatic and serial entrepreneur, Letty Nowak.  We talk about her humble beginnings in Key West, her first art gallery, surf shop and how she now manages all of 7 of her businesses along side her family life with her husband, Mauricio.  FYI, she also painted the iconic, "Greetings from KEY WEST" sign on the Cuban Coffee Queen building....

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Teresa, the illustrator and author of her new book, "Drawn to Key West." We talk about her inspiration for the book and how she picked up and moved to Key West to fulfill her artistic dreams. More on Drawn to Key West Key West is a national anomaly that offers a unique charm unlike any other city in America. This southernmost point of the continental U....

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with published author, Richard "Conch Boy" Gomez to talk about his fictional book based on his own life as a smuggler in Key West during the 80's. More on Key West: A Smuggler's Tale In Key West: A Smuggler's Tale, we meet Bobby Campo, a journalist and native of Key West who is writing his first novel about a subject that has interested him for a number of y...

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with XINSURANCE owner, Rick J. Lindsey. We talk about sponsoring the Powerboat races, helicopter flying, and of course, insurance. More on XINSURANCE As he progressed on his career path, Rick J. Lindsey discovered an urgent need for insurers willing to write policies for high-risk individuals and businesses. He was frequently frustrated that he could not pro...

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with head chef Pietro Consorti and Jessica Cain, the General Manager at the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa.  We talk about the Hyatt's decision to change their restaurant, how well Pietro works with Richard Blais with the menu and how this perfect location is catering to local as well as tourists. More on Four Flamingos Welcome to Four Flamingos, A Rich...

This is one of my favorite episodes and worth listening to again!! 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 e...

This is a recap episode of my very first episode here in Key West talking about Fantasy Fest.  I wanted to release this episode for the last weekend of Fantasy Fest, so you all could learn more about this week long party that happens every year in Key West! In our first episode, Mark Baratto speaks with Nadene Grossman Orr who handles all of the planning for Fantasy Fest, the Annual Key West Songw...

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with artist Gayle Antonides, and newest member of the Shops at Mallory Square. We talk about her journey into art, how she worked her way from farmers markets to opening her own gallery/studio space, and living in her converted school bus. More on Bug Ceramics Gallery Committed to sustainable art practices and fair pay for artists. Bug Ceramics Studio & Gall...

In this reboot episode, the tables are turned as Mark Baratto sits down with podcast host Kelly Hopkins on her show The Local Side of Key West. We talk about my art and how I got started, social media, and how I started my podcast. This interview happened in the gallery right after I interviewed Kelly for my podcast ( episode found here ). More information on Mark Baratto Mark has over 20 years of...