key west podcast

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

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 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 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 33040
Hours:  Monday - Saturday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
Contact:   (305) 998-4189
Make a Reservation:  https://www.opentable.com/r/atlas-izakaya-reservations-key-west?restref=1271458⟨=en-US&ot_source=Restaurant%20website

Website:  https://atlasizakaya.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/atlasizakaya/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/people/Atlas-Izakaya/100087047744681

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

Website: https://www.nicknormanmusic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicknormanmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicknormanmusic

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 😎.

More on Boutique Alexandra

Website:  https://www.boutiquealexandra.design/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/boutique.alexandra_

We are a boutique design studio offering full spectrum interior design services from the comfort of our vintage emporium located in Key West, FL!

Stop in for interior design services, or to shop our eclectic mix of home decor & vintage curios.

Address:  291 FRONT ST. UNIT 108 | KEY WEST, FL | 33040
PHone:  609-353-3263

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Carol Wightman, one of the owners of the famed Marquesa Hotel to discuss, what it takes to run a successful hotel, some famed guests that have stayed at the hotel, and what the "hotel life" in Key West really looks like.

Be on the listen for Carol's favorite places to dine (besides Cafe Marquesa), and some of her other local favorites.

More on The Hotel Marquesa

The Key West Hotel Marquesa and Café Marquesa are the finest small Key West hotel and restaurant on our island.

Set in the center of the historic district of Old Town Key West, the Marquesa compound is set around a lush interior garden and sparkling swimming pools. Time slows down at the Marquesa where a quiet retreat awaits those looking for luxury, privacy, excellent food and service.

Hotel Website: http://marquesa.com

Cafe Marquesa: http://marquesa.com/cafe-marquesa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marquesahotel

Facebook: https://facebook.com/marquesa

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tyler Steigelman on the WorthWhile Spotlight podcast for my first time on the hot seat for a full length interview.

We talk about my first job out of college, living in NYC, starting a career as a full-time trader, and the birth of the Backyards of Key West brand.

More on Mark Baratto

I have worked with startups, created my own company, been part of businesses that have closed their doors, and have been part of businesses with a successful exit or two.

I am always learning from podcasts, books, and the people I interview for my own podcast; but more importantly, I am always teaching and sharing everything I have learned and put to the test.

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-baratto/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/markbaratto/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/markbaratto

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the new owner of the Key Lime Bike Tours, Maria Gonzalez.

We talk about when she first came to Key West, how we first met on podcast Episode 1, and why she decided to buy a business over a house :)

More on Key Lime Bike Tours

Join Key Lime Bike Tours at Key Lime Bike Tours for a historical journey around the island of Key West. We will provide you with a fun and informative experience that you'll never forget. Discover the history, architecture, and culture of what we call "The Conch Republic"

We also do private tours and can cater to your needs! Our tour is perfect for all kinds of groups such as bachelorette parties, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, family parties, corporate groups, wedding parties and more! Just contact us and let us know what your needs are and we can discuss arrangements.

Website:  https://www.keylimebiketours.com/
Video Tour:  https://www.keylimebiketours.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/keylimebiketours/

Location:  122 Ann St, Key West, FL 33040

Contact:  Tel: 305-340-7834 - Email:  KeyLimeBikeTours@gmail.com

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Courtney Loercher, the Director of Sales & Marketing of Sebago Watersports.

We talk about how a 1 month trip turned into a 17 year stay in Key West with Sebago for Courtney.  We also get a behind the scenes on how this family business still keeps things feeling small, while growing leaps and bounds.

More on Sebago Watersports

Website:  https://keywestsebago.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sebagokeywest/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/sebago.watersports.3/

Sebago Key West takes great pride in being Key West’s favorite watersports and tour company. It’s simple… Sebago offers the best tours at a great value. Our food is prepared fresh. Our crew is fantastic. And we never compromise on our ships or safety.

Sebago Watersports operations started in 1988 with the purchase of our first catamaran, the famous racing Sebago. For over 25 years, Sebago has provided visitors and locals with a true Key West sailing experience. Sebago is proud to be the longest established day-charter catamaran operation in the continental United States.

Sebago Watersports is located on the Harborwalk at the Historic Key West Seaport. From Elizabeth Street, walk down Lazy Way Lane, past “Yours and Mayan” and the “Fisherman's Café,” we are the next-to-last shop on the right. Or from the end of William Street, make a left down Lazy Way Lane passing Schooner Wharf Bar. Sebago’s check-in office will be on the left-hand side. 205 Elizabeth St i, Key West, FL 33040

In this 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 Barefoot Billy's owner and creator, Billy Mosblech. We talk about how Billy got started as a suntan lotion salesman in 1988, how he made his way into watersports, and how some tragic business events helped catapult his business to the next level... with a ton of hard work.

More on Barefoot Billy's

In 1988, Barefoot Billy established himself as the best darn suntan lotion salesperson in Key West. But Billy felt there was something greater calling to him. In 1992, a Key West legend was born: the Barefoot Billy’s Island Jet Ski Tour. Some say Billy had a unique vision to be the first to offer an around-the-island jet ski experience…others say it was a tourist on a jet ski rental that just kept going and going.

Today, Barefoot Billy’s has grown to also offer our popular Catamaran Cruises, all kinds of Land and Beach rentals, and our expert island concierge services to connect you to all the best Key West has to offer. It turns out Billy was right, there’s more to a great Key West Vacation than just suntan lotion. And with our locations in Casa Marina, The Reach, Marriott Beachside, and Garrison Bight Marina you can find us virtually everywhere!

Website: https://barefootbillys.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barefootbillys/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarefootBillys/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWGjXz7TfhMEqunmq8pP6DQ
TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g34345-d1455343-Reviews-Barefoot_Billy_s-Key_West_Florida_Keys_Florida.html

Contact
Phone: (305) 900-3088
Email: info@barefootbillys.com

4 Convenient Locations

Casa Marina Resort, 720 Seminole Street Key West, Florida 33040
Reach Resort, 700 Waddell Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040
Marriott Beachside Resort, 3841 N Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, Florida 33040
Garrison Bight Marina 719 Palm Ave, Key West, FL 33040

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down for a round two talk with Scott Gerke. We talk about his video projects, what direction he is going and what drives him to keep going.

If you missed our round 1 interview, you can listen here: https://backyardspodcast.com/scott-gerke-once-a-stranger

More on Scott Gerke

Fueled by curiosity since childhood, I have always wanted to explore the opportunities that life presented in front of me. It’s the connections I’ve made along the way that has helped shape who I am today.

I am a full-time DJ in Key West, Florida, and I made it a goal to create a life for myself that allows me the freedom to travel the world. Throughout my adventures, I always carried a camera and used it as a tool for a greater adventure. I knew I was onto something, but never made time to grasp it’s full potential.

It was at the beginning of the pandemic and after losing all of my work as a DJ, that I was then able to jump on an opportunity in filmmaking. Life as a DJ is back, but my video series has taken on a whole new life of its own and I am so grateful for all the new experiences it has presented me with.

Website: https://www.scottcgerke.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/scottgerke

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottcgerke/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scottcgerke

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Wicked Lick creator, John Smotryski.

We talk about how he and his wife Amanda Velazquez made their way down to Key West and got into the ice cream business.

More on Wicked Lick

In 2018, John Smotryski and Amanda Velazquez packed up their lives on mainland Florida and set out for new beginnings in Key West, a tropical island in the Straits of Florida. Betting on himself and his ability to start a business, John cashed in his retirement savings in the pursuit of a new career. The couple started Wicked Lick with the intention of not only starting a new, exciting chapter in a tropical paradise, but also bringing the very best tasting ice cream to the community. John and Amanda set out to make it even more thrilling by using liquid nitrogen to freeze the cream.

Website: https://wickedlick.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wicked_lick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WickedLickKeyWest/

Address: 335 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Carlos Martin who's been in Key West for over 30 years in the hospitality industry.

We bounce around a lot for the episode talking about changes on the island and the Island City House Hotel.

Mark on the Island City House Hotel

One of the best places to stay for families and groups, our Old Town Key West hotel has maintained a long-standing reputation for providing impeccable hospitality in a gorgeous setting with incredible amenities. Situated in Historic Old Town Key West, sits this unique property that is comprised of three separate buildings, The Arch House, The Cigar House, and the Island City House. The oldest operating Guest House in Key West, Island City House Hotel offers guests an exceptional experience. 

Our historic property is a family-friendly destination offering a warm atmosphere to socialize and enjoy each other’s company. Featuring many modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, daily snacks, and refreshments in all suites, a gorgeous pool with roomy sundeck, on-site bicycle rental, and more, our hotel in Old Town Key West, Florida has much to offer each and every guest. Let our concierge lend their expertise to your vacation planning needs. From making dinner reservations to securing ticket packages to suggesting the best and most iconic places to visit, we have you covered.

Website: https://www.islandcityhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islandcityhouse/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/islandcityhouse/

Phone: (305) 294-5702
Address: 411 William Street, Key West, Florida, 33040

Property Map: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ke6cu3X4f1zr1Wv8wK-bojp8aHdxqzGN/view

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Laura Massey, the chef, and creator of LoveGrub Grazes.

We talk about how she got started as a chef, how she found her way to Key West, and the billionaire client she worked for ;)

More on LoveGrub Grazes

LoveGrub Grazes began back in 2014 in Laguna Beach Ca. as a small meal prep business and has expanded into a variety of services. Chef and owner Laura Massey eventually cooked her way to Key West and began creating beautiful pieces of art with meats and cheeses! Grazing platters are all the craze these days and here at LoveGrub Grazes we focus to bring you the best quality and most beautifully, hand-crafted platters as customer satisfaction is our number one priority. We also offer private chef services for all occasions, big or small. 

Website: https://lovegrubgrazes.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef_lovegrub/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovegruborganic/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Sam Jindra, the local Fourth & Pride rep. We talk about how the brand started, where they are going, and how they are giving back.

day's podcast episode is brought to you by ReviewPush. At ReviewPush, their main goal is to streamline and simplify online review management for businesses and brands; regardless of size or industry. You shouldn’t have to jump through numerous hoops with countless logins just to catch a glimpse of what your customers are saying about their experience with your business. To get more information on ReviewPush, visit www.reviewpush.com

More on Fourth & Pride

Fourth & Pride was founded in recognition of the spirit, vitality, and camaraderie of the famous East Village Pride Bars and their patrons, which openly welcome like-minded people of all orientations seeking to come together and imbibe with pride.

Born less than one mile from the birthplace of Pride itself, Fourth & Pride is on a mission to change behaviors, conversations, and lives for the better, one sip at a time.

5% of all sales go to support our LGBTQ+ partner organizations which work tirelessly to advocate, strengthen, and advance the community.

Website: https://www.fourthandpride.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fourthandpride/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fourthnpride

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Matt and Lisa, the adventure seekers behind the YouTube show and the adventures of their Sailing Vessel "Bye Felicia."

We talk about how the two met and how they are living their dream of adventure on the sea.

More on Sailing Bye Felicia

Sailing Bye Felicia is the story of Matt and Lisa, and their new Sailboat, soon to be named the Sailing Vessel Bye Felicia, currently in Key West, Florida. Watch as they learn their way around Bye Felicia through repairs and upgrades with the goal of sailing around the world!

We want to share our lives to show and inspire others to take hold of their lives and live their dreams.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCgnl4HudxsHR17BVd3S12A
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailingbyefelicia/