Episode 260 - The Haunted Parade: David Sloan & Robert the Doll at Fantasy Fest 2024
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
Release Date: 10/25/2024
Episode 262 – Tropical Glam & Balanced Living: The Kirby’s Closet Story
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
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 Closet Kirby’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....
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Episode 262 – Visual Candy with Artist & Designer, Kristyn LaMoia
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
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...
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Episode 261: Crafting Life's Journey – Boatbuilding to Fine Art with Harrison Gallery
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
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...
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Episode 260 - The Haunted Parade: David Sloan & Robert the Doll at Fantasy Fest 2024
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
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...
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Episode 259 - Crafting Culinary Experiences with Chef Todd Alexander
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
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...
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Episode 258 - Brewing Dreams in Paradise: The Story of Southernmost Pint Brewpub
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Tadd Maudlin and Lindsay Carswell, the masterminds behind Southernmost Pint Craft Brewery and Brewpub. They share Tadd's journey from home brewing to launching craft beers at Winn Dixie, and how their passion led them to open the Southernmost Pint in Key West. Hear about the challenges, triumphs, and creative process behind crafting unique brews and making a mark in the local beer scene. More on The Southernmost Brewpub Best Craft Beer & Brewery In Key West The World! At Southernmost Pint Brewpub, our story is as bold and...
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Episode 257: The Road to Purpose: Jessica Tookey’s Journey from Teaching to Art and RV Life
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
In Episode 257 of The Backyards of Key West Podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with artist Jessica Tookey, who shares her incredible journey of transformation. After teaching art for 18 years, Jessica took a leap of faith in 2014 to pursue art full-time. Her passion for creating meaningful portraits for families who have lost loved ones became her purpose, especially after facing her own struggles with mental health. Jessica opens up about her "Words Matter" exhibit, her battle with suicidal thoughts, and how her art has helped her heal and inspire others. In 2019, she sold everything and...
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Episode 256 - Andy's Gone Fishing: A Fundraiser for Success by 6
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with legendary Key West fisherman Andy Griffiths to discuss his upcoming charity event, Andy’s Gone Fishing Retirement Celebration and Fundraiser. Join us on Saturday, October 12th, at Beachside Key West for a night of cocktails, dinner, live entertainment by Stephanie Kaple, and dancing with DJ Cardi. This special event supports the UWCK’s Success by 6 program, helping local children get a strong start in school. Learn more and get your tickets now! Location: Beachside Resort & Residences Key West, 3841 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040 ...
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Episode 255 - Unveiling Key West's Artistic Treasures with Nance Frank of The Gallery on Greene
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
In this episode of The Backyards of Key West Podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with Nance Frank, the visionary director behind The Gallery on Greene. For all the Key West history and art enthusiasts, this episode is a deep dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the island, from its iconic homes to the artists that help preserve its unique charm. Recorded in the fall just before the COVID-19 lockdown, we discuss the gallery’s mission, its renowned exhibitions, and the evolving style of home decor that blends fine art with contemporary living. Tune in to hear how The Gallery on Greene...
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Episode 254 - - Embracing the Process: The Artistic Journey of Eric Anfinson of Mockingbird Studio
Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto
In this episode, Mark Baratto has an inspiring conversation with artist Eric Anfinson. Eric shares how his first experience with a paintbrush didn't produce the masterpiece he imagined, but it ignited a passion for the process of creation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who values the journey over the destination. Eric's story reminds us that finding fulfillment in the process can lead to a more meaningful and joyful life, even if the initial results aren't perfect. About Eric Anfinson Eric Anfinson began his painting journey in 2001 after moving to a tiny island where the Gulf of...
info_outlineIn 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:
- Website: keywestghosthunt.com
- Robert the Doll's Website: robertdidit.com
- Instagram: @davidlsloan
- Facebook: Florida Keys
- YouTube: Haunted Key West
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!!