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With a deep love for podcasts, I've harnessed my passion and creativity to create my own show, a venture born out of necessity when I relocated to the vibrant Key West, FL. My podcast is a weekly platform where I have the privilege of interviewing a diverse range of guests, including business owners, artists, musicians, and fellow entrepreneurs. Over the course of more than three years, this show has become a dynamic and engaging resource for listeners. You can catch the latest episodes every Friday across various podcast platforms, from Spotify to Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio to Pandora, ensuring a wide and accessible reach for our audience. Additionally, I'm proud to share that our show has been embraced by the local community and is now featured on the airwaves of 104.9FM every Sunday at 10AM. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore inspiring stories, share valuable insights, and connect with incredible individuals on a weekly basis. Thank you for being a part of our podcasting community!
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Whisky Rick, the charismatic founder of Key West Whisky Tours, for a lively conversation that blends Key West history with handcrafted spirits.
Rick shares how his deep love for storytelling and fine whisky inspired him to create immersive tasting experiences right here in paradise. From hidden gems and Prohibition tales to flavor profiles and favorite pours, this episode is a toast to the spirit of the island—literally.
We talk about:
How Whisky Rick got his name (and his start)
The craft behind building a whisky tasting tour in Key West
Surprising local history tied to spirits
What makes a great tour—and a great pour
Why Key West was the perfect place for this passion project
Whether you're a seasoned sipper or whisky curious, this episode has something smooth for everyone.
Explore more or book your tour: 🌐 Key Whiskey Tours – linktr.ee/keywhiskeytours
In this flavorful episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Executive Chef Leandro “Leo” Minelli of Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa.
Chef Leo shares his culinary journey from Mendoza, Argentina to the kitchens of South America, The Bahamas, New Zealand, and now Key West. We dive into what brought him to the island, his passion for local seafood and sustainability, and how he leads the kitchen at the stunning Four Flamingos, A Richard Blais Key West Kitchen.
We also touch on:
His vision for Four Flamingos and Blue Mojito
What makes Florida-fresh cuisine so unique
Why the culinary scene in Key West inspires him daily
Come for the food talk, stay for the island vibes.
More on Four Flamingos: Welcome to Four Flamingos, A Richard Blais Key West Kitchen, where Florida-Fresh meets oceanfront elegance. With sunset views and a menu crafted by Chef Blais, this is a must-visit culinary destination in Key West.
🌐 Website: fourflamingoskeywest.com 📸 Instagram: @fourflamingoskeywest
📍Located inside Hyatt Centric Key West 601 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
🍽️ Restaurant Hours Breakfast: 7:30AM – 11:00AM, Daily Dinner: 5:00PM – 9:00PM, Daily
Follow @HyattCentric on Instagram and Facebook and tag your photos with #HyattCentric.
n this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Kevin Redding to talk about "Fighting for Laughs," a charity comedy show happening on July 5th, 2025, at the Key West Theater. Kevin shares how the idea for the event came about, the incredible lineup of comedians involved — including Tony Woods, Chuck Nice, "The Reverend" Bob Levy, and Preston Gitlin — and how the show will benefit the veteran nonprofit organization A HERO.
Hosted by local Key West native and veteran Petey Rancel, this one-night-only event is all about giving back to those who have served, while bringing the community together for a night of laughter and support. Kevin also talks about the behind-the-scenes efforts it took to organize the event, the sponsors who stepped up, and why Key West was the perfect place to make it all happen.
🎟 Tickets and info: thekeywesttheater.com and fightingforlaughs.org
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Mila, the creative force behind Mavka Jewelry.
We chat about her journey launching a new business, her life in Key West, and—yes—the real story behind the Instagram disappearance of her former partner-in-crime, Julia. If you've been wondering where she’s been this past year, Mila opens up with honesty and heart.
✨ Follow and learn more about Mila: Instagram: @florida_keys_ventures Website: mavkajewelry.com
In this episode, I sit down with Gyotaku artist Morgan Bentley, whose work captures the spirit of the sea in every print. We dive into her artistic roots, how she discovered the traditional Japanese printmaking technique of Gyotaku, and how she’s turned her passion for the ocean into a thriving art career.
Morgan’s distinctive style has gained her a massive following on TikTok and YouTube, where she shares her creative process and love for marine life. Whether you're an art lover, ocean enthusiast, or just curious about unique creative paths, this episode is packed with inspiration.
🎣 Learn more about Morgan and her work: 👉 Morgan Bentley Linktree
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with entrepreneur Kirby Myers. We dive into how she started her business, the ways she balances charity work with her marriage and family, and how she still finds time to relax amidst it all.
More on Kirby’s ClosetKirby’s Closet is a women’s boutique serving up Tropical Glam in the heart of downtown Key West. The boutique is bursting with bright, fun, and unique clothing encouraging you to “Dress Happy.” Inside the Closet, there’s a little something for everyone—all at an affordable price—and you’ll always be welcomed with a smile.
Kirby carries the fun and fabulous Never Fully Dressed line from the UK, which offers an amazing selection of clothing in sizes 2–16. Another UK label, Dancing Leopard, is known for its comfort and style, and Kirby also offers their inclusive sizing range. She also showcases the vintage-inspired Flying Tomato line from Los Angeles, a variety of Matisse shoes, basics like bodysuits and bralettes, as well as handmade Kimonos and Kaftans.
Plus, there’s a delightful selection of local artists featured: soaps and lotions from Always Summer, custom Closet candles by BellaLaine Art, and charming greeting cards by Whimsy Key West and Kassy Burnette.
Stop by during regular boutique hours or book your own private personal styling session or group shopping party. Trust us, you’ll want to stay awhile…
Connect with Kirby Online
As I pivot the podcast from spotlighting Key West businesses to featuring artists from around the globe, I’m excited to bring back one of my favorite interviews with graphic designer and fine artist, Kristyn LaMoia.
In this episode, I chat with Kristyn about her creative journey—how she fell in love with graphic design, grew her professional career working in-house and with design studios, and found new freedom by branching into fine art. We also talk about her playful online presence (hello, TikTok!) and how it inspires the vibrant colors and clean lines that define her style.
Whether you’re curious about transitioning from a 9-to-5 job to creative freelancing or looking to explore the blend of art and design, you’ll love Kristyn’s fresh perspective and colorful approach.
More on Kristyn LaMoiaSouth Florida-born artist, Kristyn LaMoia, has been honing her artistic skills since she could hold a crayon. She calls herself a “misfit” who found refuge and freedom in art. Her fascination with the subconscious mind—alongside the natural world—shapes the subjects she paints, and her background in graphic design influences the crisp, vivid look of her work.
From collaborating with various design teams early in her career to branching out on her own, Kristyn thrives on the creative flexibility freelancing gives her. She continues to explore these artistic passions in both fine art and design, making her a must-follow creator for lovers of bold, expressive visuals.
Listen to the episode and discover how Kristyn’s journey from graphic designer to full-fledged artist might just inspire your own creative leap!
Episode Description:
In this episode of the podcast, host Mark Baratto sits down with artists Helen and Ben Harrison to uncover the captivating story behind their renowned Harrison Gallery on White Street. What begins as a conversation about art quickly sails into an extraordinary tale of adventure and craftsmanship.
"In the 1970s, my husband, Ben, and I spent four years building a thirty-eight-foot sailboat in Costa Rica—a massive project for two gringos in a foreign country. Starting with a bare hull, we designed and constructed this giant sculptural object of functional art using self-taught traditional wood techniques that set the stage for my present work. While traveling and living aboard—which we did for 11 years—I began my transition from boatwork to sculpture." — Helen Harrison
Join us as we explore how their life at sea became the foundation for their artistic endeavors, leading to the establishment of a local institution that showcases some of the finest fine art in Key West.
Read About Their Journey: Sailing Down The Mountain: A Costa Rican Adventure
About Harrison Gallery:Located in the southernmost city in the continental United States, Harrison Gallery has become a Key West staple, earning a reputation as a destination for exceptional fine art. Opened by Helen and Ben Harrison in 1986, this privately owned and operated art studio represents a select group of artists whose work, alongside the Harrisons', creates a uniquely personal and unforgettable artistic experience.
Connect with Harrison Gallery:In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with paranormal expert David Sloan to discuss the 2024 Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, where Sloan and the infamous Robert the Doll will serve as Grand Marshals. We dive into how David’s fascination with the paranormal began and explore his deep connection with Robert the Doll, a haunted artifact that has captured global attention. We also talk about the spooky legends surrounding Robert and how visitors can avoid his curse while capturing memories of the event.
David Sloan, a pioneer in paranormal entertainment, launched one of the first ghost tours in Key West and has authored numerous books on the area’s haunted history. He’s been instrumental in bringing Robert the Doll to the spotlight, making him one of the most notorious haunted objects in America. Beyond the ghost tours, David has curated South Florida's largest collection of haunted artifacts and has appeared on various national media outlets.
Connect with David Sloan:
Tune in to hear the spine-tingling details and what’s in store for Fantasy Fest’s most haunted night!
p.s. I know that the cover image for this podcast looks nothing like Robert The Doll, but I'm not taking any chances no matter what Sloan says!!
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chef Todd Alexander, a culinary expert with over 40 years in the hospitality industry.
From his beginnings as a pastry chef and sous chef to launching his own successful personal chef business 15 years ago, Chef Todd shares the passion and dedication behind his craft. Discover how his love for fine food, gardening, and travel shapes his bespoke in-home dining services, private event catering, and culinary shows. We also explore his exciting plans for expanding his reach and making a mark on the vibrant Key West food scene.
More on Chef Todd AlexanderI’m Chef Todd Alexander, a seasoned culinary expert with over four decades in the hospitality industry. My journey began with roles as a pastry chef and sous chef, which allowed me to refine my skills and develop a deep passion for creating exceptional dining experiences. Fifteen years ago, I took a significant step by launching my own personal chef business, where I now offer bespoke in-home dining services, cater private events, and host engaging culinary shows.
My approach to cooking is fueled by my love for fine food, gardening, and travel. I seamlessly blend these passions into my work, crafting personalized and memorable experiences for my clients. My goal is to elevate every meal and event with a touch of sophistication and a personal flair, ensuring that each experience is truly unforgettable.
For more on Chef Todd Alexander, visit his website: Chef Todd Alexander. Follow him on Facebook and YouTube.