Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

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

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with personal trainer and fitness buff, John "Shep" Shepard. We talk about how he began his fitness journey to help him overcome a childhood illness, why he stopped playing college football, and why Key West was always the perfect destination for him and his family. More on John Shepard Your future Personal trainer @ FYT Circuit class instructor Studied ex science at UF  Collegiate athlete Former police officer and SWAT Owner/director of programming at CrossFit Punta Gorda CF Level 2 trainer, Cf kettlebell trainer, Cf strongman trainer, Cf striking trainer Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/shep_is_training/ FYT Gym:  https://fytkeywest.com/tribe/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with brew-master Jorge Quintana.  We talk about how a home brewing kit from his wife, started a multi-year passion that got him to where he is today. This episode is packed with a ton of nuggets from passion to persistence.   More on Cayo Hueso Brewing Located on Stock Island, the last bit of Old Key West, you will find Cayo Hueso Brewing, the brainchild of Key West native Jorge Quintana.  Jorge started home brewing in 2010 and quickly grew a passion for the art and science of making beer. Batch after batch he quickly realized that he desired much more than brewing in his garage. Jorge decided to take the leap and make his passion a profession, and secured a vacant auto body repair shop. Then began the journey of turning the space into his vision of a craft brewery. Slowly but surely after hurricanes, the birth of his son, and a global pandemic, Jorge completed his vision of "Paradise Unfiltered". Our small batch brewery focuses on local flavors and uses only the highes

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

In this episode, Mark Baratto sites down with Mike Begg, the founder and CEO of AMZ Advisers, who helps manage and grow brands globally online. We talk about using some of the big box companies to help you start your business, or leverage your existing local business. More on Mike Begg and AMZ Advisers Website:  https://amzadvisers.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amzadvisers/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AMZAdvisers YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMmB2MhZiVmjMhd4KN2YrKw   AMZ Advisers is a full-service ecommerce & digital marketing consultancy focused on growing an ecommerce presence for small businesses. Ecommerce presents an incredible opportunity for businesses to grow exponentially, however many fail to reach their desired goals. Our sole focus is to help small businesses harness the opportunities presented to them and we have the results to prove it.   Our consultants are experienced ecommerce professionals who are obsessed with helping their clients achieve the desired

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Mila, the owner  of the Flamingo boutique & Mimosa Bar. We talk about how she got started, made some much needed adjustments, and how Mimosas made it into the mix :) More on Flamingo boutique & Mimosa Bar Sip on your Fresh Squeezed Mimosa

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down again with Coley Faircloth to talk about his new retail venture, Shrimp Road Surf Co. If you remember from a past episode, Coley is the founder of the lifestyle brand, The Grateful Diver (found here). More on the Shrimp Road Surf Co. Welcome to Key West's newest retail apparel store for the ocean enthusiast! We're your one-stop shop for custom shirt printing, gear rental, local art, apparel & accessories, and "Your Boat on a Shirt." (See more info on that one-of-a-kind shirt below. If you're a boat owner, you're going to want one!) The Shrimp Road Surf Co. is a new retail surf shop at the Perry Hotel and Marina offering apparel and accessories for your days out on the water! Website: https://shrimproadsurfco.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shrimp_rd_surf_co/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shrimp.rd.surf.co

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with artist Rafael Antonio Medina. We talk about his long history with Key West, how he found his passion for art when he was a kid, and how he finds himself ALWAYS creating. More on Rafael Medina Rafael Antonio Medina was born on May 26th, 1979 in Key West, Florida. From a very young age, he was inspired by his grandfather, Danny Acosta, who is a sign painter and the creator of the famous Key West landmark, the Southernmost Point Buoy. Naturally, his grandfather hoped that Rafael would also grow up to be a sign painter and take over his legacy. But Rafael channeled this inspiration in a slightly different way. Being surrounded by beautiful tropics in the islands of the Florida Keys, he was inspired to paint natural sceneries. Later in life, he pushed the boundaries of his style of painting and started creating art in a unique style that can be described as abstract expressionism and interactive artwork. Website: https://islandboyarts.com/ Instagram: https://ww

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 t

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 se

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Kelly Hopkins for a round two interview to discuss her thriving concierge business. More on The Concierge Girl  am here to help with any type of personal assistant services while you are here in Key West. You  don't need to waste your valuable vacation time trying to figure out all of the small details. Let me know what you need and I will take care of it for you! I proudly serve locals as well.  We are all short on time down here so let me help you save a few hours a day. Enjoy life, I'll take care of the rest! Website: https://theconciergegirl.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_the_concierge_girl_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Theconciergegirl/ Podcast:  https://theconciergegirl.com/podcast-1

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with rapper Mike Stack. We talk about when he began singing, why he took a pause from rapping, and how he is laying down the foundation in his own backyard of Key West. More on Mike Stack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammikestack/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/iammikestack Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lmE3xKKlQNcisF8h7bI8f You can find all the links to Mike's music here: https://linktr.ee/mikestack

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 w

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Liz from Hammerhead Surf Shop. Liz has always been in retail, specializing in helping turn around lagging businesses. When she was in Key West, she ran into the Hammerhead Surf Shop with some ideas to help, and the next thing she knew, she came on board as an owner. We talk about this journey and where she is taking the business. ABOUT HAMMERHEAD SURF SHOP KEY WEST Hammerhead Surf Shop is located in the famous Key West Historic Seaport along the harbor-walk waterfront. We only offer the best brands in the surf industry to keep you looking your best downtown or out on the water. We keep up with the latest trends and have something for everybody. Hammerhead Surf Shop is Key West, Florida's Premier Surf Shop and your one-stop-shop for fashion. Website: https://www.hammerheadsurfshop.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hammerheadsurfshop Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hammerheadsurfshopkeywest Location 201 William St Key West, FL 33040 Opening Ho

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down for a round two talk with Co-Owner of Key West Finest and realtor, Amber DeBevec. This episode is full of a lot of laughs as we catch up with where Amber is at with her Off Duval and On Duval guides and her overall marketing business. More about Key West Finest From beautiful secluded sandbars and clear turquoise waters to exciting watersport excursions, whether sailing on the sea at sunset or tasting local cuisine on a food and cocktail tour, Key West has innumerable memorable experiences to offer. Allow us to be your local guide to find you the best activities in paradise. Instant message us by clicking the bouncing blue message ball or call/text 203-273-9401 Website: https://keywestfinest.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amberkeywestfinest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberkeywest/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS69XcAGT2IQsa5W_DSkWog

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Key West local musician Jason Lamson for round 2! We talk about how things have changed since our last interview, one year ago (found here). We also talk about his up-and-coming show at the Key West Theater on Saturday, Jun 18 - get tickets here. More on Jason Lamson A soul-filling, southern vocalist fusing island style, down-home soul, and a touch of funky personality to create a unique sound filling the live music scene of Key West, Florida. A fan of both old and new music, from classic rock to reggae jams to country standards to hip-hop beats, Jason’s style is a collective representation of these genres and more. His musical style doesn’t fit into a box: it's fluid, one sound lends itself to the next, like one emotion leads to another until you’re immersed in sound and feeling. Jason’s performances include a combination of original songs and covers at private events and the top live music venues in Key West including Green Parrot Bar, Sloppy Joe’s, an

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the boutique owner, Rebecca Davis. We talk about how she started her fashion career, the steps she took to open her first location, and why she opened up Seventeen Stars Boutique here on the famous Duval Street. More on Seventeen Stars Boutique In 2010, Rebecca Davis visited Key West for the first time. She instantly fell in love with the charming, eclectic Island town. Since then, she has dreamt of opening a boutique on Duval Street. The last week of 2021,  Rebecca’s longtime dream became a reality and Seventeen Stars opened at 610 Duval Street.  Seventeen Stars is Rebecca's third boutique concept, featuring fashion-forward clothing and accessories with a fresh take on Key West style. Her carefully chosen collection of apparel and accessories are fun, unique and perfect for those who love expressing their own individual sense of style. At Seventeen Stars, you will find the most up-to-date trends, as well as classic wardrobe staples. We are in touch with

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Kava Culture creators and sisters, Caroline & Jacqueline Rusher and opening manager, Tianna Colpitts. We talk about how they got into Kava, why they wanted to open their first store (they now have 10 locations with 5 more opening soon) and how they fell in love with Key West. More on Kava Culture Kava Bar We serve the finest all-natural Kava and Elixirs for everyday life to combat the stressors of our modern urban lifestyles. We want to bring you back to a simpler time, an honor to our tribal ancestors, where community and home means connection. We BULA together to celebrate our lives, our paths crossing, if only for a moment or an entire lifetime. Have a deep conversation, work remotely, or play a board game with us while relaxing and celebrating life with us. This is the Kava Culture way of life. Website: https://www.kavaculture.com/key-west Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kavaculturekeywest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kavaculturekey