229 - The owner of Red Bike Brand, Venter Surf & Sport, Southernmost Surf Shop and Jag Gallery, Letty Nowak

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 into the story of a couple who turned their love for Key West, event planning, and helping others into a flourishing concierge business, making vacationers' dreams come true.

Connect With Us:

• Website: https://theconciergegirl.com
• Podcast: The Local Side of Key West
• Instagram: Follow us for a glimpse into Key West's beauty.
• Facebook: Join our community and stay updated on what's new.

Discover The Concierge Girl: Your Gateway to an Unforgettable Key West Experience

Welcome to The Concierge Girl, where your dream Key West vacation becomes a reality. Founded by Kelly Hopkins, a seasoned event planner and hospitality expert, The Concierge Girl embodies the spirit of Key West's vibrant lifestyle, offering personalized concierge services designed to ensure your stay is nothing short of spectacular.

Our Story: From the charming streets of Maryland to the sun-kissed shores of Key West, my husband, Keith, and I have embarked on an adventure of a lifetime. With a background in event planning and a passion for connecting with people, I've found my true calling in making others' vacation dreams come true. Our journey led us to Key West, a paradise filled with unique characters, exquisite dining, and breathtaking turquoise waters - the perfect backdrop for the ultimate vacation experience.

Our Philosophy: At The Concierge Girl, we believe that every vacation should be a masterpiece. With over a decade of experience in event planning and hospitality, we've mastered the art of creating unforgettable moments. From the initial meeting to the final wave goodbye, we're here to handle every detail, ensuring you can sit back, relax, and soak in the joy of your event.

Why Key West? Key West is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the bustling Duval Street lies a world of local secrets, from serene beaches to cozy eateries and vibrant cultural spots. It's this rich tapestry of experiences that inspired me to launch "The Local Side of Key West" podcast, guiding visitors to explore the island like a local and uncover the unexpected delights that make Key West truly special.

Our Services: As your personal concierge, we're dedicated to tailoring your Key West vacation to your preferences. Whether you're seeking an exhilarating boat charter adventure, the convenience of a golf cart tour, or the perfect itinerary of local attractions, The Concierge Girl is at your service. Our goal is to see the look of pure happiness on your face, knowing you've had the best vacation ever.

Final Thoughts: In Key West, life is a celebration waiting to be enjoyed. At The Concierge Girl, we're here to ensure you experience the best of it, without the hassle. Let us take care of the details, so you can live in the moment and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

"Enjoy life, we'll take care of the rest!" - Kelly & Keith Hopkins

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 hope of one day sharing his story on Joe Rogan's podcast, showcasing the depth and vision behind his art.

Discover More About Phat Slabs:

• Website: Phat Slab Creations
• Instagram: @phat.slabs
• Facebook: PhatSlabs
• TikTok: @phatslabs

Ryan's Story:

Emerging from the sun-drenched beauty of Tampa, Florida, Ryan Halligan's entrance into the world of woodworking and resin art was both serendipitous and transformative. At 20 years old, he discovered his ability to turn wood into captivating narratives and dreams, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

Influenced by Florida's coastal charm and its array of exotic woods, Ryan found his calling. He uses these natural materials as his canvas, with epoxy resin serving as a medium to highlight and preserve the beauty of the wood. His art not only reflects the enchanting landscapes of Florida but also embodies the dynamic interplay between the natural and the refined.

Settling in Key West, Ryan immersed himself in an environment that nurtured his creativity and allowed his artistic vision to flourish. His work, ranging from tables to wall art, is a vibrant homage to Florida's waterways, capturing the essence of the state's beauty through the interplay of color, texture, and form.

Now at 25, Ryan continues to explore the endless possibilities that wood and resin present. Each piece he creates is a celebration of nature's splendor and a reflection of his deep respect for the environment that inspires him. Through his art, Ryan aims to evoke the tranquility of Florida's shores, the mystery of its hidden coves, and the majestic beauty of the ocean.

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 festival brings to light, from traditional crafts to contemporary artworks.

Discover the 59th Key West Art & Craft Festival

This year, the festival takes on a new dimension by merging the Key West Craft Show and The Old Island Days Art Festival into one grand event: The Key West Art and Craft Festival. Scheduled for February 24th & 25th, 2024, this much-anticipated festival will unfold in the picturesque setting of Old Town at The Truman Waterfront Park.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene and celebrate the diverse talents that make the Key West Art & Craft Festival a must-visit event.

Connect with Us:

• Website: Key West Art Center
• Instagram: @oldislanddaysartfestivalkw
• Facebook: Old Island Days Art Festival

For inquiries, please reach out to the Key West Art Center at 305-294-1241 or info@KeyWestArtCenter.com.

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 currently open for bookings. As a woman-owned business, Coasting Cocktails specializes in providing exceptional bartending services for weddings and events, bringing a touch of sophistication and creativity to every gathering.

Explore the fascinating story behind Key West's First Mobile Craft Cocktail Experience and get a glimpse into the artistry that goes into every pour.

Connect with Coasting Cocktails on Instagram or Facebook below for a visual feast of their delightful creations. Don't miss this episode that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and the art of crafting exquisite cocktails. Cheers to Coasting Cocktails! 🍹✨ #CraftedElegance #CoastingCocktails #MixologyMastery

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/coastingcocktails
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092999083681

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 newly rebranded E11DROPS.

FROM KWSOAPS to E11DROPS

For the past three years, our company operated under the name KWSOAPS—a self-explanatory title. However, as of January 2024, we proudly announce our new identity: E11DROPS. The logo now features "soaps and skincare," each element holding profound meaning. Stay tuned for a detailed explanation of the significance behind each letter, number, word, and symbol.

Connect with us:

• Website: E11DROPS
• Instagram: E11DROPS on Instagram
• Facebook: E11DROPS on Facebook

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 traditional meets the avant-garde. Nestled in a 650 sq feet space on Duval Street, Key West, Florida, Doozee has transformed into a sophisticated, music-infused, and social media-friendly haven. Picture a bar counter resembling an ice sculpture, tended by "Bar" tenders crafting velvety smooth, all-natural Madagascar vanilla ice cream bars dipped in luxury hard-shell coatings. Choose from an array of toppings, from classic nuts and sprinkles to exotic options like Rose Petals, Dom Perignon Gummy Bears, and Grand Marnier Chocolate Pecans. With 5 million unique combinations, every bespoke order is a sweet symphony.

🌐 Explore Doozee:

• Website: Doozee Bespoke Ice Cream Bar Shop
• Instagram: Doozee Bar on Instagram
• Facebook: Doozee Bar on Facebook

📍 Location: 123 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

⌚ Hours: 10am-10pm, 7 days a week

Discover the magic behind Doozee's revolutionary approach to ice cream, where each visit promises a bespoke adventure in flavor. Don't miss this flavorful journey - tune in now!

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 on Follow The Rabbit Speakeasy 🍸

Immerse yourself in our secretive cocktail haven, where Burlesque, Acrobatics, Singing, and Circus Arts converge in the heart of Old Town, Key West. The Rabbit crafts magical potions served in extraordinary ways, captivating your senses in a wonderland of delight.

🌐 Website: Follow The Rabbit Bar
📷 Instagram: Follow The Rabbit Bar on Instagram

🕒 Hours: Wednesday-Friday: 6pm-Midnight

A note from Follow The Rabbit

Hold onto your top hats and feather boas because Follow The Rabbit Speakeasy is unveiling its new burrow on January 11th, nestled in the clandestine charm of Old Town, Key West! It's not just a change of address; it's a leap into a world of enchantment and surprises.

As the Rabbit and its devoted team have multiplied like, well, rabbits, it's time for us to dig a new warren in the heart of Old Town Key West. This exciting chapter coincides with the flip of the calendar, promising not just a change in location but an evolution into Dinner Experiences starting this February!

Starting January 11th, our doors will swing open, inviting you to follow the whimsical trail to our not-so-secret-anymore spot. The secret, as always, lies in booking a reservation online. Once you do, expect an email 24 hours before your reservation with the address and the golden password!

Fear not, dear patrons, for our essence remains unchanged. All bookings still come with 2 hours of reserved seating, delectable bar snacks, 2 delightful concoctions from our "Drink Me" menu, and the ever-entertaining Burlesque performances! But wait, there's more! VIP options in our new abode offer exclusive perks, including a charming take-home gift, artisanal snacks, and the coziest seats in the joint.

Secure your journey down the rabbit hole today! We promise an experience that will have you grinning like the Cheshire Cat and sipping like the Mad Hatter. Follow The Rabbit, and let the whimsy begin!

Cheers to a year of mystery, magic, and marvelous libations!

🎙️ 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 paths have crossed ours – a heartfelt THANK YOU! Your support fuels our passion for creating content.

🎧 Our Top Episode of 2023: #185 - How a Local Real Estate Duo Went Viral on TikTok & How You Can Too

In this captivating episode, host Mark Baratto sits down with the dynamic husband and wife Real Estate duo, Stephanie & Greg from The Little Island Group.

🏡 Episode Highlights:

• Discover how Stephanie & Greg harnessed the power of TikTok to propel their Real Estate business to new heights.
• Gain insights into their successful podcast journey and learn how they navigate the world of content creation.
• Uncover the winning strategy of giving more than asking and its impact on business growth.

🌴 More About The Little Island Group: Meet Greg and Stephanie, Florida natives and Real Estate Agents living their island dreams in the Florida Keys. Join them as they share glimpses of their lives beyond Real Estate, including their love for design, history, culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the Florida Keys.

🌐 Connect with The Little Island Group:

• Website: The Little Island Group
• TikTok: @livinginkeywest
• Instagram: LivinInKeyWest
• YouTube: The Little Island Group on YouTube
• Facebook: The Little Island Group on Facebook
• Living In Key West Podcast: Buzzsprout

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 chase her dreams. Tune in for a captivating conversation that unveils the unique blend of passion, determination, and the pursuit of a lifelong dream. Whether you're a book enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking inspiration, this episode is sure to leave you with valuable takeaways and a renewed sense of motivation.

More on Key West Island Books

Specializing in Key West's local writers, we have hundreds of titles from some of Key West and South Florida's most famous authors, past and present. Come in and browse our local interest section for a taste of local talent. Come by and see what Key West is reading! From the latest new releases and New York Times bestsellers to trendy beach reads and hot titles you might have missed, our bestseller section is a constantly changing assortment of what our customers are asking for. Extensive selection of first editions and signed titles. Used books in all categories. All things Hemingway. Rare and Antiquarian Books.

Website:  https://www.keywestislandbooks.com/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KWIslandBooks/
Email:  books@kwislandbooks.com
Phone:  305-294-2904

Location:  513 1/2 Fleming St, Key West, FL

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-to destination for the freshest and most mouthwatering pizza in the heart of Old Key West, FL, conveniently located on the oh so vibrant Duval Street. With our unwavering commitment to quality, we handcraft our pizza crust daily, ensuring a perfect foundation for your favorite pizza. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying lunch, a delightful dinner, or a post-night-out treat after reveling in Key West’s vibrant festivities, Angelina Pizzeria is the place to be.

Website:  https://angelinaspizzakeywest.com/

Location:  208 Duval Street Key West FL 33040 
Hours:  Open 11:00am - 3:30am
Contact:  305-296-3600

More about the Sit with Kit Show

Sit With Kit is an original podcast featuring Kit Carson, the Earl of Pizza (aka The Pizzaman) and all the Key West characters he meets while sitting in his favorite spot in front of Angelina’s Pizzeria, his pizza shop, located in the heart of Key West on the 200 Block of Duval Street in the Rick’s Entertainment Complex. Join him as he interviews the rocks stars, heros and Gods of Key West.

Watch Here:  https://www.youtube.com/@sitwithkitkeywest
Listen here:  https://open.spotify.com/show/68Gvf2rBzgHzAQr3puwaUJ
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sitwithkitkeywest/