Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Teo Masters and Carl Schutze with Primerica Financial Services.  We talk about creating long-term wealth, how to get yourself out of debt, and the proper way to set yourself up for financial freedom. More on Primerica Financial Services Taking control of your financial future can feel overwhelming. And, if you're like many people, it's hard to even know where to start. When you consider that financial education isn't often taught in schools, it's no wonder so many of us enter adulthood knowing very little about the fundamentals of healthy money management. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone! For more than 45 years, Primerica's licensed Representatives have educated families just like yours on simple financial concepts as part of our HOW MONEY WORKS™ approach. Our goal is to empower you to make informed financial choices through education and then match you with the right financial solutions – term life insurance, investments, auto & home insurance, and m

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 provide the liability protection these entities desperately needed to safeguard their assets. He also formed the belief that insurance companies acted too quickly to settle frivolous claims. Rick J. Lindsey decided to try a different approach. He started an insurance company and became the newly formed entity’s CEO. This opportunity has enabled Rick J. Lindsey to fill a void in the market and provide a valuable service to businesses, individuals, and insurance agents who write high-risk business. XINSURANCE also specializes in helping individuals and businesses who live a lifestyle or participate in activities that ma

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 Richard Blais Key West Kitchen. We are very excited to cook for you and give you a taste of what Florida cuisine can be. Chef Richard Blais has authored a Florida-Fresh menu that highlights the best and most interesting ingredients that celebrate the flavors of the Americas. Our waterfront views with nightly sunsets are just another reason why this is a must visit spot while dining in Key West. Website: https://fourflamingoskeywest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fourflamingoskeywest Located at the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa 601 Front Street Key West, FL 33040 Restaurant Hours Breakfast: 7:30AM

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 equally as much for the tourists that visit our city every day. This type of episode is my favorite because there are too many lessons to list. More on Tavern N Town Located just off the Grand Lobby of our hotel is the Tavern N Town restaurant – fast becoming one of Key West’s most popular attractions. Here luxury surroundings and the simple pleasures of life come together in perfect harmony. And here you will find as many reasons to linger as there are tempting items on our inspired menu. Your choices range from steakhouse favorites to the incomparable seafood bounty that has brought visitors to Key West for generati

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 Songwriters Festival, and many more events through her company We've Got The Keys. We go deep into why she moved to Key West and what she loves about living and working here, and some of her favorite spots in town to eat drink and be merry. MORE ON NADENE Nadene arrived in Key West Florida in 1991 just after Graduation from SUNY Geneseo. Looking back on her introduction to Island Life – she established a strong foundation with the best Key West jobs … Cocktail Server, Crew on the Catamarans, and Concierge! The 3 C’s! She learned the Island inside and out and made lasting friendships that grew into the professional relatio

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 & Gallery is a space created by Gayle Antonides. Its intention is to provide a safe space for artist Gayle to create and display their work alongside artist friends. Bug Ceramics Studio & Gallery offers classes, clay, firing services, and more. The art displayed is created by Gayle and their artist friends near and far. Art created in Key West, across the U.S. and even internationally comes together in one space to represent a world wide community forged through art. Website:  https://www.bugceramicskeywest.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bugceramicspottery/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@bugceramic

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 experience in marketing, sales, operations, & events. Backyards of Key West Gallery owner, Artist, brand creator and local Key West podcaster. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-baratto/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markbaratto/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the owner of The Baklava Key West. We talk about how these delicious treats make their way from Istanbul to Key West daily and the inspiration behind bring this classic Turkish dish to Old Town. More on The Baklava Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebaklava.keywest/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090923799900 Location:  411 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040 Contact: (305) 304-8660

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with 2005 Mayor Morgan Joseph McPherson. We talk about how he turned his dream of going into the NFL into being a public servant. More on Morgan McPherson In 2005, Morgan McPherson defeated incumbent Mayor Jimmy Weekley and was the Mayor of Key West from 2005-2009. Area Advisory Committeeman, Boys' and Girls' Club of the Keys Board Member, Department of Juvenile Justice Former President, Lower Keys Ministerial Association Former Treasurer, Monroe County Tourist Development Council Former President, Police Athletic League Former Board Member, South Florida Regional Planning Council

In a remarkable display of unity and celebration, the vibrant island community of Key West came together to host the largest-ever pop-up parade to honor the legendary musician and local icon, Jimmy Buffett, following his passing. The incredible story behind this unforgettable event is now available in a captivating podcast interview hosted by Mark Baratto, a local artist and podcast creator, and featuring Paul Menta, the mastermind behind the extraordinary parade and owner of Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. Jimmy Buffett, known for his timeless music and island-inspired lifestyle, held a special place in the hearts of Key West residents. When news of his passing reverberated throughout the island, Paul Menta took it upon himself to organize an awe-inspiring tribute that would make Jimmy proud. In less than 24 hours, Paul and his team orchestrated a pop-up parade that drew over 8,000 enthusiastic participants. The podcast episode delves into the life and legacy of Jimmy Buffett, recounting cherished memor

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with fellow artist, Maggie Ruley. We talk about how she got started as an artist, how she made her way to Key West, and when she made the jump to full-time artist and gallery owner. More on Maggie Ruley Many people who love Key West could not live at their highest potential on a itsy-bitsy island.  If that's you, what do you do? Well, you vacation here whenever you can or create an island getaway home here. Good for you.  And when you need to relax, the island is here waiting for you. Maybe your island getaway needs the finishing touches of Key West art to make it the perfect island home you so truly deserve. Or maybe you need to take some tropical bliss to your up-north home as a reminder to relax. In that case, some of my island-inspired, ahhhhhh...... inducing art is just what you need. You can visit me in the gallery or explore the website to find the perfect art for your island haven, wherever it is, here in Key West, or up-north somewhere. ​Wishing you all beautif

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the owners of Key West's newest restaurant, Atlas Izakaya.  We talk about their inspiration for the restaurant, their experience in the industry, their tasting menu, and giving back to the community. More on Atlas Izakaya Izakaya means “stay-drink-place”. It is a word used to describe the perfect spot to settle down and dine with company. We are a chef owned and operated family establishment located in the heart of the historic Key West. Focusing on creating Japanese small plates. We’re happy to share that some of our menu offerings are part of a give-back program for the Boys and Girls Club of the Keys. $1 from our featured items goes to our community non-profit.  We encourage our guests to check out and sponsor our local programs. Address:  500 Truman Avenue #7 Key West, FL 33040Hours:  Monday - Saturday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Sunday: ClosedContact:   (305) 998-4189Make a Reservation:  https://www.opentable.com/r/atlas-izakaya-reservations-key-west?restref=127145

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Key West local Nick Norman to talk about where he started, and where he is going in this previous episode REBOOT. We find out how he got started with music and how he is constantly working to "sharpen the sword" of his craft. This is one of my favorite interviews so far because Nick is so easy to talk to and talks about his career as an open book.  More on Nick Norman A show-stopping vocalist and sharp songwriter, Nick Norman brings humor, heart, southern storytelling, and soulful swagger to the country genre. It's a sound that began taking shape in his hometown of Columbia, South Carolina, where Nick grew up listening to a soundtrack of home-state heroes — including Edwin McCain and Hootie & the Blowfish — and icons like Stevie Wonder and The Band. He soaked it all up, mixing the rootsy sounds of the FM dial with the awe-inspiring power of the gospel singers he'd hear every Sunday morning at the local church. A lifelong friend and collaborator of coun

In this exclusive interview reboot, Mark Baratto sits down with Rapper and Singer of the Dirty Heads, Jared Watson (aka Dirty J). This interview happened 30 minutes before the band went on stage for the beginning of their national tour, down here at the Key West Amphitheater. It may have been short, but for those fans out there, we touched on the bands origin story and their beginnings. More on the Dirty Heads Following in the footsteps of their California brothers Sublime, Huntington Beach’s Dirty Heads mix hip-hop, reggae, and rock along with that laid-back South Cali attitude. The group formed in 2003 when punk rocker Dustin Bushnell (aka Duddy B) asked his friend, rapper Jared Watson (aka Dirty J), to collaborate on a project that would focus on positive vibes and infectious grooves. Watson added singing to his vocal skills, and with percussionist Jon Olazabal, an acoustic trio version of Dirty Heads began playing shows and building an audience.  They soon hooked up with producer Rob Cavallo and headed in

In this episode of the podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with the Kiteboarder, Chef, and owner/creator of the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, Paul Menta. We talk about how Paul took a number of chances when creating his rum distillery and how his "failures" help him find success. In a post-COVID-19 world, Paul saw how hand sanitizer was hard to come by, so made his own product mixing 140 proof alcohol with aloe and transmission gel, used in ultrasounds. Menta gave away the 3-oz bottles around town to service workers, retailers, mail carriers, and anyone else hard at work in Key West during high season for tourists. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery WHAT IS CHEF DISTILLED? For centuries, Distillers have been making the sweet libation...Rum.  Some legal, some not so legal. One common task shared by rum Distillers and Chefs alike is cooking sugar cane in big kettles or "stills." We are Chefs first and Distillers second, so our process is called Chef Distilled! This combination of skill brings out the best f

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with interior designer and self proclaimed vintage treasure hunter, Alexandra. We talk about her career as an interior designer, her mobile design studio and her new shop at the Shops at Mallory Square; right down the hall from the Backyards of Key West Gallery 

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with local musician, Reggae Lou. We talk about Lou's past, how he got into music, how he almost died (a couple of times), and how he finally found his groove. More on Reggae Lou & The Kind Budz Website:  https://www.reggaelou.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/reggae_lou/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Reggaelouandthekindbudz YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvXIOP2dbOeOoWHzosPmM3w With over a decade of experience in the music industry, Reggae Lou & The Kind Budz has gained quite a notable reputation for their solo career and collaborations. Not content to rest on their laurels, they are always building towards the next release, adding more classics to their repertoire. It is a common belief that music should be shared with listeners as much as possible. That’s why this Reggae Artist goes on tour on a frequent basis, making countless public appearances nationally and internationally.

Did you know that Bagatelle, Nine One Five Restaurant & Bar, and First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery are all owned by the same people? In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with co-owner Damian DeAngelis.  We talk about how he got involved in the restaurant business, which of the three were acquired first, and why he wanted to keep going until he had the one where it all started. More about Bagatelle Bagatelle Island Restaurant is located at 115 Duval Street, close to Mallory Square, in downtown Key West, Florida. Bagatelle is situated in a historic, architecturally-beautiful building, built in the 1800s, that was converted into a restaurant in 1979. Bagatelle serves a brunch 7 days a week, from 9am-4pm, featuring an array of eggs benedict, crispy, deep-fried french toast, fish sandwiches, and our famous lobster mac ‘n’ cheese. We also serve an American-Caribbean style dinner menu, featuring locally-sourced fresh fish, fine steaks, as well as an extensive wine list that appeals to any palate. B

In today's episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Frankie Flemming, Key West's top professional Makeup Artist. We talk about Frankie's experience on QVC, her world-traveling doing makeup, and how she landed here in Key West. More on Frankie Website:  https://www.frankiekeywest.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/frankiekeywest/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@frankiekeywest Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/shop/frankiekeywest?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_aipsfshop_aipsffrankiekeywest_W2G1ZDTSJ6YG9DEC3633 Meet Frankie Flemming, a Philadelphia-born professional make-up artist and hairstylist with a passion for beauty and a love for creating unforgettable memories. With an education from Cosmix School of Makeup and Paul Mitchell's Cosmetology School, and assisting celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal, Frankie has honed her skills and taken her career to new heights, working with live television, print, commercial, celebrity, and bridal in Key West. What sets Frankie apart is her upbeat, enthusiastic, and resourceful

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with musicians from the band Homegrown. We talk about how they got started and why they love building their base in Key West. More on Homegrown Music Links:  https://linktr.ee/homegrownmusic Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/wearehomegrown/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/weare_homegrownband/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownband Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/7L5p05zrYHEoYmwHcVY7Cv?si=3a_WGQT1S4OUSB9n45-fZw&utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree&nd=1