Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

In the episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Judge Edwin A. Scales, III to the Third District Court of Appeal, who also happens to be a DJ on local station 104.1. We talk about his love for music and how he never gave up on his dream, while still being a local District Court Judge. More on Ed Scales, III Ed’s show—oddly named “The Ed Scales Show”—airs on US-1 Radio most Sundays from 11am-2pm. The show has aired on US-1 Radio for over two decades and continues the station’s tradition of nontraditional radio, Florida Keys-style. No one (other than Bill Becker) has been on-the-air at US-1 Radio longer. Management of the station is as puzzled as everyone else as to why this is the case. No matter how often we change the locks to keep Ed out, Ed finds a way into the studio to do his show. Trust us, if it weren’t for his impeccable musical taste, we’d call the cops! While it’s hard to describe Ed’s show with any particularity, suffice to say that he plays a wide variety of great rock and roll. Ed regularly sneaks do

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with photographer and artist, Chris Gunderson. We talk about how he got started, how his first art show went, and how he manages his career with his art. More on Chris Gunderson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_gun/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chris, the creator of the amazing social media account, @StaySaltyFlorida. We talk about how Chris got started with social media, where the brand is going, and some tips on growing your account :). More on Stay Salty Florida For the love of, Salt, Sand, Sea and the Sun!! Florida's number 1 information resource on Facebook, Everything Florida! Beaches, Resorts, Restaurants and More! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staysaltyflorida Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StaySalty

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Key West Yoga Sanctuary owner & Yogi, Erika Hawks. We talk about how she got started in yoga, her daily practice, the studio, and a couple of small practices that have changed her life. More on the Key West Yoga Sanctuary Key West Yoga Sanctuary is a space for each of us to relax, learn, and connect. Yoga gives us the opportunity to slow down and connect to an awareness of ourselves that protects and promotes health and well being of the body and mind. Key West Yoga Sanctuary and Yoga for the Environment are passionate about taking an additional step to extend this awareness and consciousness from the internal to the external world. This can include learning about and understanding other cultures or utilizing and experiencing true eco-concsious practices with sustainable materials made with zero toxic emissions. In turn, these efforts will cultivate community, compassion, and peace in our yoga practice, our daily lives, and our universe as a whole Website: http

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Azie, the artist, designer and owner of the incredible Marrero's Guest Mansion. We talk about the properties history, hauntings, and all the properties they own. More on Marrero's Guest Mansion Marrero's was originally a private home, built in 1890-1891 by Francisco Marrero, a prominent local cigar maker. He promised the house to his beloved, Enriquetta Marrero, as a forever home to raise their family together. Some say their legacy lives on in the form of a benevolently spirited energy passing through the halls of the old house. Experience the grandeur of their stately Victorian home, thoughtfully updated and lovingly converted into a boutique hotel. The original architectural details of our historic estate remain intact while modern renovations throughout the house provide guests with the best of both old and new Key West hospitality. Our location in the heart of Old Town, just half a block from Duval Street, provides prime access to all of the restaurants, bars,

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tiki Man Radio head DJ and creator, Danny Lynn. We talk about how the station started, how he grew his fanbase, and how he has moved into the local event business, bringing the kind of music he loves, to the places he loves. More on Tiki Man Radio Tiki Man Radio Tikimanradio.com "Your Coastal Americana Radio" Tiki Man radio is your place to escape the crazy round ball we all inhabit that at times seems to be spinning out of control. Take a break from the daily grind with some island time and Tiki Man Radio. We are committed to growing what we call Coastal American Music which in its nature means escapism Website: https://www.tikimanradio.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TikiManRadio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tikimanradio/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tikimanradio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TikiManRadio

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with floral designer Natalie McIntyre. We talk about how she got started, her love for having flowers everywhere, and how she creates the perfect work-life balance. More on Bespoke Floral Design “I must have flowers always, and always.” Claude Monet. Bespoke Floral Design was created with this famous quote in mind. Everyone should have fresh beautiful flowers always and always! Flowers aren’t just something you send; they tell a story on your behalf. We offer the perfect blend of contemporary and traditional arrangements, and located in the Heart of Old Town at the Historic Clinton Square Mall. Bespoke Floral Design specializes in Weddings and Events of all sizes. We devote a discerning eye to every detail, making sure every event and arrangement is perfectly crafted and executed. Our mission at Bespoke Floral Design is to operate with a constant enthusiasm for learning, being open to implementing new ideas, and maintaining a willingness to adapt to evolving trends and

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Coley Faircloth to talk about his lifestyle brand with a mission to help the ocean reefs. More on The Grateful Diver Grateful Diver was created in 1995 when Grateful Dead co-founder and drummer Bill Kruetzmann, an avid diver, had the inspiration to design a Grateful Diver logo by placing the iconic Grateful Dead lightning bolt on a red dive flag. Kruetzmann then granted Coral Forest, a nonprofit coral reef conservation organization, the rights to use it for marine conservation fundraising initiatives. Bob Weir, Grateful Dead co-founder and rhythm guitarist was a member of the Coral Forest board of directors. In 1998, Coral Forest merged with Reef Relief (reefrelief.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the coral reef ecosystem through education and outreach in the Florida Keys. Permission to use the Grateful Diver logo was then passed on to them. Over the years, Grateful Diver merchandise has been sold online and used in many events

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jennifer Potter, a published author and amazing jewelry designer. We talk about how her first book was a viral smash hit, how her jewelry line is making waves, and how her next book is all about what's happening under the sheets :) More on Jennifer Potter Website: https://jenniferpotterjewelry.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/JENNIFERPOTTERJEWELRY Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JENNIFERPOTTERJEWELRY/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jenniferpotterjewelry/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jpotterjewelry A Florida native, Jennifer Potter began her career as a hip-hop wardrobe stylist working with award winning directors such as, Hype Williams and Gil Green. Jennifer has had the opportunity to dress some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B. After a decade of dressing and styling in Miami, Jennifer decided to venture into the world of fine jewelry. Jennifer acquired her love of jewelry and obsession with layering from her beloved Cuban-American grandmot

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Billy Kearins of Coast Projects. This is our second time sitting down for an interview, the first was about his iconic local brand found HERE. In this interview, we talk about Billy's music and arts festival know as the COAST is Clear, happening on December 4th. We talk about how he came up with the idea and how he is keeping Key West a boutique music town with big acts, without arena size seating. ATTENTION!! How would you like to win 2 FREE tickets to this years festival! We are running a contest on our social media channels. All you need to do to enter is go to my Facebook or Instagram account and like the COAST IS CLEAR post (it will be the one with the snippet of this interviewing playing) and TAG 3 people in the comments Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backyardsofkeywest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backyardsofkeywest Tag 3 people in the comment section We will pick a winner on Friday October 29th. More on the COAST is Clear Music & Arts Fes

In today's episode, Mark Baratto sits down with professional hairstylist and makeup artist, Julie Hill. We talk about how she got started and how she shifted all her products to eco friendly and organic while still keeping your look fabulous. I was hoping all of this hair talk would help with some hair growth on my bald dome, but needless to say, I'm still hairless

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down the creator of Key West MONOPOLY, Casey Arnold. We talk about how a road trip during COVID gave him the inspiration to create Key West's first ever MONOPOLY game. From working with Hasbro to get the license agreement to creating all the unique spots on the board, to developing all of the pieces, Casey has been on a 12 month whirlwind adventure! The launch of the game is October 14, 2021 (Casey's birthday) so I recommend to preorder now since all 10,000 games are already starting to sell out! https://keywestmonopoly.com More on Key West MONOPOLY PURCHASE A PIECE OF KEY WEST! The iconic and global brand of Hasbro Gaming's MONOPOLY is coming to Key West! The game you love to play has been fully customized to reflect the characteristics and features of beautiful and sunny Key West, Florida! This collector's item is a one-of-a-kind civic pride piece with a limited quantity of games sold so DO NOT WAIT! The game has been fully designed and production is almost finished. When

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with two amazing singer-songwriters; Kylie Sackley and Anthony Smith. This was a favorite episode for me because I was able to get different perspectives from both of these artists since they don't sing together and are in two separate bands. I hope you enjoy it!! More on Kylie Sackley Instagram:  https://instagram.com/kyliesackley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyliesackleymusic Twitter: https://twitter.com/kyliesackley For award-winning songwriter Kylie Sackley, it’s always been about the songs first. As a wunderkind performer in her birthplace of Australia, Kylie dazzled audiences with her authentic grasp of country, her gorgeously expressive vocals, and her electrifying stage presence. When she won Australia’s most prestigious country music talent search, Star Maker (Keith Urban was a previous winner), she made the fateful decision to go the route of being a professional songwriter, and she hasn’t looked back since. “First and foremost, I’ve alw

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chris Massicotte and Jamie Mattingly, the co-founders of Duval Street Media. We talk about how they met, why they started the business, and how they are helping local businesses grow. More on Duval Street Media It all started when… We met the way most people in Key West meet; in a bar. Chris had been in town for only a few weeks when he struck up a conversation with Jamie while she was working. He mentioned to her that he worked in Democratic politics and discovered that we both shared the same passion for political community organizing. We stayed in touch for most of the year through political circles, including volunteering to help organize the March for Our Lives in March of 2018. Chris returned to Washington to work on the 2018 election but as soon as it was over he headed back to Key West as fast as possible. After reconnecting we identified a need for good cost-effective digital marketing for the many small businesses operating in Key West and Duval Street Me

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with singer-songwriter Shelly Fairchild. We talk about how her career began, how leaving her label for another was the best thing for her career, how being true to yourself is the only way to be... and of course, Dolly Parton. More on Shelly Shelly Fairchild isn’t new to the industry – but she’s far from old news. A staple in the Nashville music community, Fairchild hit the scene to much acclaim with her Columbia Records debut album Ride. The project introduced the young artist’s soulful, gospel-tinged brand of alternative country and spawned a Top 40 hit with “You Don’t Lie Here Anymore.” She toured with some of the biggest names in the format, including Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban and Tim McGraw, and began to dig her roots in the industry. She again found success in her second release, Ruby’s Money, which came steeped in a thick groove with elements of funk – but it was Buffalo, her crowd-funded 2017 release, that marks a milestone in her life and career.  “I’

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Co-Owner of Key West Finest, Amber DeBevec. We talk about her business, how it got started, and how her company is here to help you plan your activities, answer all of your questions and even help you with local real estate. More about Key West Finest Planning a trip to Key West can be very overwhelming! Luckily we are one of Key West's BEST Concierge Services! We will listen to what you want and recommend the perfect thing for you! Please let us book it for you as we do get a commission yet it doesn't cost you a penny extra.Message us here with any questions, Thanks for following and feel free to share!Sunny regards,Amber, Key West!  Website: https://keywestfinest.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amberkeywestfinest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberkeywest/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Singer-Songwriter Kyle Coulahan. We talk about how he decided to leave the game of football as an NFL hopeful, to pursue his real dream as a Singer-Songwriter. Kyle spoke about the mentor that helped get him on his way, in a way that you can tell he missed having him around. Our interview went a little short because Kyle didn’t want to miss his friend Arlis perform, which anchors home what a great man and friend he really is. MORE ON KYLE When he was young, Kyle Coulahan's father introduced him to an old Alvarez guitar and he's been hooked ever since. Growing up in Perdido Key, Florida, Kyle split his free time between playing football and practicing on the guitar.  During Kyle's senior year of high school, he was offered a full scholarship to play football at Auburn University, and there he met producer Chip Moman (Waylon Jennings, Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and many more). Chip recognized a talent in Kyle that he could see growth over the years, so he introduc

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Maya and Vasil, the owners and operators of The Koffie House. We talk about how they got started, all their healthy options, their snazzy location, and of course, Vasil's music. More on The Koffie House Website: https://koffiehouse.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekoffiehouse Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekoffiehouse Address: 602 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040 The Koffie House was founded in 2020 by a family that shared the same dream , to practice healthy conscious alliance lifestyle with fresh organic foods, in one of the oldest historic brick buildings in Key West/Conch Republic built in 1892, 24.5551° N, 81.7800° W, presenting an eclectic space of brick & color magic together with a vegan/vegetarian friendly menu containing freshly baked goods, natural organic cold pressed juices, smoothie , tapas style organic eats, protein energy bars & natural (brain) supplements. Join us to enjoy this work of love,  presented through art, music, ar

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with owner and GM John Hadfield, of local water sports store, Sea Key West. We talk about how he got started in the water sports business, how he navigated COVID, and how his business is thriving with the help of local support. More on Sea Key West Website: https://www.seakeywestlocal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seakeywest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seakeywestlocal YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-0B8aqRZS8aBZUjHyVQGSQ Located in Key West, Florida, Sea, Key West carries the best snorkel gear, sidewalk surfing boards (skateboards and longboards, plus parts and accessories), and SCUBA diving and watersports equipment in the Florida Keys.  As avid snorkelers and scuba divers, we only carry brands we would wear ourselves - so we can speak to each product based on personal experience. The Florida Keys are the ideal location for any and all water activities and we're incredibly fortunate to have the ability to snorkel at the 3rd largest living

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with concierge expert and podcast host, Kelly Hopkins. We talk about her love for Key West, how she makes all of her clients dreams come true on their Key West vacation and her successful podcast, The Local Side of Key West. More on Kelly Hopkins Website: https://theconciergegirl.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_keys_930 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/113880157191502 I'm Kelly and I live in gorgeous Key West. I have lived up and down the east coast and finally settled down here in paradise about 5 years ago. My husband and I have had a very adventurous life so Key West seemed like the right spot to call home. Its full of quirky people, great restaurants, amazing happy hours and of course, the amazing turquoise water. We lived in Maryland most of our lives. I loved living there so much! I not only had a full time job but I bartended on the side for 10 years. That bartending job changed my life. I loved mingling with everyone and learning about so many d