Fun in Key West Podcast

Trust the Signs: Mark Renson on How Will I Know, Whitney Houston as a Guardian Angel, and Finding Solace in the Florida Keys   Host Michele O'Connor introduces chef, restaurant owner, and author Mark Renson about his novel How Will I Know, the Fun in Key West Book Club February pick. Renson shares his background as owner of Ambition Coffee and Eatery in upstate New York (nearly 26 years), his firs...

Key West Travel Tips and Booking Smarter with Savvy.com (Guest: Eric Goldreyer) Host Michele O'Connor welcomes listeners to the Fun in Key West podcast and interviews hospitality entrepreneur Eric Goldreyer, who has 30+ years of experience spanning bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, mega-yacht inflatables, and vacation rental property management. Eric shares his background (founding BedandBreakf...

First Timer Friday: Why Marathon Is the Perfect Home Base in the Florida Keys   Host Michele O'Connor welcomes listeners to the Fun in Key West podcast and presents a First Timer Friday episode that detours from Key West to highlight Marathon as a laid-back, centrally located Florida Keys home base. She explains Marathon's position halfway between Miami and Key West across 13 islands and why it of...

Historic Marker Monday: The Birth of the Conch Republic and the Great Battle of 1982   Host Michele O'Connor introduces the Fun in Key West podcast and a Historic Marker Monday episode about the 1982 events that led to the creation of the Conch Republic. She recounts how a U.S. Border Patrol roadblock at Last Chance Saloon in Florida City stopped and searched every car entering and leaving the Key...

Exploring Key West in February: Festivals, Events, and Warm Weather Delights In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor offers a comprehensive guide to enjoying Key West in February. From highlighting warm weather and sunny skies to detailing a variety of festivals and events including arts and crafts fairs, theaters, Mardi Gras celebrations, and foodie exhibitions, Mich...

Crispy Conch Fritters and Key West Delights: Tasty Tuesday Special In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a culinary journey through Key West, with a focus on the iconic conch fritters. Michele covers everything from the perfect texture and seasoning of these crispy treats to the best spots on the island to enjoy them. She also dives into the origi...

Exploring Clinton Square: A Civil War Landmark in Key West In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides an insider's guide to Key West, focusing on Clinton Square's rich and layered history. She highlights its significance during the Civil War as the only southern city occupied by the Union throughout the conflict. Michele explains the unique dual commemoration wi...

Discovering Key West with Salty Paw Charters In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the idyllic world of Key West with Zach from Salty Paw Charters. Learn about Zach's journey from aspiring teacher to captain, and how he launched his own charter business in Key West. The episode explores unique experiences offered by Salty Paw Charters, including sandbar a...

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Key West: West Martello Tower In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a journey to explore the transformation of the West Martello Tower, a Civil War fort that has been reclaimed by nature and community efforts. From its initial construction in 1862 to its current status as a lush garden and butterfly habitat managed b...

First Timer's Guide to Choosing Bed and Breakfasts in Key West In this episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast, host Michele O'Connor offers practical tips and historical insights for selecting the perfect bed and breakfast in Key West. She covers essential considerations such as location, amenities, and the unique characteristics of various Key West properties. Michele delves into the history of...

Exploring Key West's Best Breakfast Spots: A Tasty Tuesday Guide In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides an insider's guide to the best breakfast spots in Key West. From iconic locations like Blue Heaven and Pepe's Cafe to hidden gems like Sandy's Cafe and Glazed Donuts, Michele lists must-try places that offer delicious breakfast options. Additionally, she i...

Embracing the Pirate Spirit: A Conversation with Author Chris Harvey In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor chats with author Chris Harvey about his book 'Son of a Son of a Pirate' and its sequel 'One Particular Harbor.' Chris shares his writing journey, inspiration from Jimmy Buffett, and his love for pirate history. The episode offers insights into the characters,...

Best Brunch Spots in Key West: A Tasty Tuesday Adventure Welcome to Fun in Key West podcast with Michele O'Connor, your friendly guide to exploring Key West. This episode, part of the 'Tasty Tuesday' series, is dedicated to uncovering the best brunch spots in Key West. Whether you prefer casual eateries, upscale dining, or boozy brunches, Key West has it all. Michele highlights local favorites suc...

Uncovering Key West History: The Yellow Fever Epidemic and Its Lasting Impacts In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor explores a fascinating yet tragic chapter in Key West's history—the yellow fever epidemic during the Civil War. Discover the story behind the unmarked cemetery at 625 White Street, the resilience of the Key West community, and the significant impact o...

Empower Your Dreams: Making Your Destiny Happen with Donzel Leggett In this empowering episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor brings on Donzel Leggett, a Key West native and author of 'Make Your Destiny Happen.' Donzel shares his inspirational journey from growing up in Key West to becoming a global leader. He talks about the importance of taking charge of one's life, develo...

Exploring Key West: Lime, Crime, and Tour Adventures with Kim Stamps In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor talks with Kim Stamps, a seasoned tour guide and business owner in Key West. They dive into Kim's unique journey from a finance graduate to operating popular tours in Key West, including the new Eyewitness True Crime Tour and Tart Tails Walking Tours. Kim share...

Exploring the Historic Key West Aquarium: A Dive into Tourism History   In this episode of Fun in Key West, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a historical journey through the Key West Aquarium. Michele uncovers how the aquarium, built in the 1930s with the support of the Works Progress Administration, became the first open-air aquarium in the United States and a pivotal point in the transfo...

Tasty Tuesday: The Ultimate Key West Waterfront Dining Guide In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a culinary journey through the best waterfront dining spots in Key West. From upscale experiences like Hot Tin Roof to casual beachside eats at Loggerheads Beach Bar, Michele shares insider tips on where to savor fresh seafood, exotic cocktails, and...

Unveiling Key West: Your Ultimate Guide for January 2026 In this inaugural episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast for 2026, host Michele O'Connor serves as your vibrant guide to all things Key West. Michele covers a broad spectrum of topics such as where to eat, drink, stay, and enjoy in Key West, especially focused on January events. Listeners are introduced to the unique offerings and lesser-k...

Discover Key West's Boathouse: Happy Hour and History Combined In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into one of Key West's most beloved happy hour spots, the Boathouse, which is located in the historic seaport. O'Connor shares insider details on their half-price small plates, waterfront views, and fascinating historical significance tied to the location. List...

December Delights in Key West: Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Happenings In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides an insider's guide to the vibrant December events in Key West and the Florida Keys. From holiday parades, boat parades, and festive light tours to concerts, art walks, and fishing tournaments, listeners will discover a plethora of activities to enj...

Unveiling Key West's Civil War Legacy: The Story Behind the Blockade In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor explores Key West's surprising role during the Civil War. Dive into the history of the Union blockade, the strategic importance of Key West, and the role of British blockade running ships. O'Connor also provides insights into local historic markers and encourag...

Exploring Key West: From Sunrise to Sunset with Fun in Key West In this episode of Fun in Key West, host Michele O'Connor and her husband Kevin from Out A Here Travel, provide a comprehensive recap of their recent Key West adventure. They discuss updates at key locations like Pittsburgh International and Key West airports, and their stay at the Southernmost Beach Resort. The episode includes recom...

Exploring Key Largo: Your First Stop on the Road to Paradise Join Michele O'Connor on the Fun in Key West podcast as she kicks off 'Wandering Wednesday' with a detailed exploration of Key Largo. Discover Key Largo's unique charm, from the underwater adventures at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to bird-watching at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary. Learn about local tips for dining, happy h...

Diving into Key West's Sponging History Welcome to the Fun in Key West podcast, hosted by Michele O'Connor. In this episode with a fresh theme song and intro, Michele explores the fascinating history of the sponging industry in Key West. Discover how this unexpected industry blossomed in the 1820s, peaked in the 1890s, and eventually declined due to overharvesting and environmental damage. Learn a...