Florida Keys Weekly Podcast

Peyton Porter is a rising music star who has already played the Grand Ole Opry, while sharing stages with names like Wille Nelson and Tim McGraw. As her star ascends, Porter visited Key West this past January and took some time on our podcast to discuss road life, navigating the Nashville scene and how her small town Georgia roots keep her grounded throughout the journey. Porter is joined by "Coach" Kristi Creegan (who just so happened to graduate high school with our host). 

From Tyler Childers, Whiskey Myers, The Red Clay Strays and Jason Isbell- some  of the biggest names in music have come through Key West at Mile 0 Fest. As the "red dirt" festival returns for a seventh year, founder Kyle Carter joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss the festival's magic formula of stars and upcoming talent, including this year's list of mind-blowing artists that features Stephen Wilson Jr, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Shane Smith & The Saints and many more. So buckle up for Mile 0 Fest on Jan 27-31 in Key West and visit www.mile0fest.com for more.  (Pictured: Kyle Carter with Jamie Lin Wilson and Pam Tillis). 

For the second edition of the “On The Rock” podcast, Mark Hedden speaks with Emily Schulten. Schulten is a classic Key West multi-hyphenate – a poet who has published three books, a professor, a Fulbright Scholar, and the reigning poet laureate of Key West. We talked about the perks of the poet laureate gig, playing David Brubeck records on Jack Keruoac’s hifi, donating a kidney, writing a book of poetry about donating a kidney, sharks in bottles, and how she got to Key West in the first place. 

Mark Hedden kicks off the first edition of his "On the Rock" podcast with one of the most beloved people in the Florida Keys. Farmer Jeanne Selander, of the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm (commonly referred to as "the jail zoo") joins the show to discuss her career spanning over 20 years. From kinkajous, sloths, ponies, alligators and more, the jail zoo boasts one of the most unique jail programs on the globe. Approaching retirement, Selander recounts riding out Hurricane Irma alone in a jail with 150 animals, tips on how to catch alligators and which sloths are ok to pet.  

Duane Betts carries a legacy forged by his father (the legendary Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers Band) while forging his own path of soul-stirring blues blends, raw passion and six-string mastery. Joined by his band, Palmetto Motel, Betts plays The Key West Theater on May 15. Britt Myers is joined by Josh Mothner on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast, as they chat with Betts on what it was like growing up with legendary musicians, flying around the Keys as a child with his father and Don Johnson in a helicopter, along with upcoming projects with iconic producer Dave Cobb. Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel show is an unforgettable journey that no music lover should miss. For more visit thekeywesttheater.com.   

Eli Pancamo's living room, now a makeshift office, is a polemical museum dedicated to counterculture. Works from artists like Erik Foss, Captain Outrageous and Bast hang with a story behind each piece.  To his right, a pinball machine from Key West’s Star Roller Rink backs up to the late Shel Silverstein’s piano—something Pancamo taught himself to play over the past several months. His surroundings are a symbolic reflection to the juxtaposition of his psyche—both as an artist and intellectualist. During his rise as a notable restauranteur in Key West, Eli avoided the meritocratic path to success. His natural tendency is the road less traveled, where every failure and success are utilized as creative fuel. So it came as no surprise when he privately shared with me he was dabbling in AI (or Artificial Intelligence) and invited me over to showcase a platform he believes can change the world. Pictured: Eli Pancamo reads from Rick Rubin's "The Creative Act: A Way of Being" from his Seminary Street home in Key West. 

Brett Young's piercing eyes and 6'6 athletic frame is the prototype for a Hollywood set. Instead, the family man and country star made a run at professional baseball before an elbow injury took him down his journey as a singer-songwriter. Today, the music icon has recorded six number 1 hits and doesn't appear to be slowing down. Young joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his love for music and family, while juggling a career from the road. For remaining tickets visit thekeywestamp.com to see Brett Young live on March 8th from the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. 

CW Colt tried to retire after a celebrated career playing music across the globe. But just a few years after he set down his guitar, a dream pulled Colt back into music. This time, his passion extends beyond the need for a paycheck. Instead, the renowned journeyman has a vision for the world to "Be Love." To ignite his revelation of love, Colt wants to spread Key West's "One Human Family" way of life across the world. With tears of gratitude and joy throughout, Colt joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to share his vision. 

LT Mark "JABA" Buck knows his way around F/A-18 Super Hornet. And on March 29 & 30th, he will join the Southernmost Air Spectacular airshow in Key West, alongside others who have earned right to call themselves the best pilots in the world--including the celebrated Blue Angels. LT Buck carried out three deployments onboard the USS Ronald Reagan and is currently an instructor pilot, teaching F/A-18 tactics. We caught up with LT Buck on his career in the Navy, what it was like to live at sea during a pandemic and whether Hollywood "gets it right" when depicting the men and women inside the cockpit. Listen here on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast and please visit Keywestairshow.com for more on the Southernmost Spectacular, March 29-30.  

Debbie Gibson plays the Key West Theater on Feb 16. As a teen, she became one of the most iconic singer songwriters of the late 80's, with her debut album, "Out of the Blue" going triple platinum behind songs like "Foolish Beat." She became the youngest female to write and produce a Billboard Hot 100 #1 single, which still stands to this day. Britt Myers catches up with Gibson on what it was like to emerge and be discovered before social media, the female artists she admires today and her love for Broadway & the big screen. For tickets visit: thekeywesttheater.com and be on the lookout for Debbie's new memoir, "Eternally Electric" in September of 25. 

One of the world’s most recognized and authentic comedians, Paula Poundstone, returns to Key West on Jan 9 at the Key West Theater. Hailed for her improv and “never doing the same act twice,” Poundstone has trailblazed a path in her industry for over four decades. This includes her her acclaimed HBO series, standups, acting and mainstream commentary.   And yet, it is Poundstone’s nonconforming style that is indigenous to her approach to comedy. Honest and raw –and yet relatable and lovable. The Florida Keys Weekly Podcast caught up with Poundstone before she arrives in Key West, For ticket information visit thekeywesttheater.com  

One of the most influential bands in American music history performs Dec. 7 at Key West Theater.  The Kingston Trio, a legacy band that carries the torch for one of the most influential musical movements in modern history, blending calypso, folk, bluegrass and rock themes into the Americana mainstream, performs Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Key West Theater.Keys Weekly's Britt Myers and Mandy Miles catch up with the trio for the latest episode of the Florida Keys Weekly podcast. They discuss the band's historic feats of record-breaking hits and album sales; the Beatles opening for the trio and their influence on Bob Dylan and the folk revival of the early '60s. Many argue the Kingston Trio transformed modern American music alongside pioneers such as Elvis Presley, BB King and The Beach Boys — blending sounds and genres that forever changed how music was performed and marketed. Mike Marvin, Tim Gorelangton and Buddy Woodward represent the group today, performing hits like “Tom Dooley” and "MTA" while reminiscing with nostalgic stories of growing up around the original trio. Don’t miss the podcast, which drops some breaking news (spoiler alert) on a potential upcoming Netflix miniseries on the Kingston Trio. Some tickets remain at thekeywesttheater.com.

How does Badfish, the Sublime tribute band, continue to capture the music of a timeless moment, while maintaining sold-out shows and growing popularity for over a quarter century? For founder Scott Begin it’s simple — have a blast while staying true to the music of Sublime. On Wednesday, Nov. 20, one of Key West’s most popular bands returns to the Key West Theater. Britt Myers catches up with Scott Begin on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss how a new generation of fans is embracing the unique ska-reggae music of Sublime, some of his favorite memories from the road and why he loves stopping in Key West to perform for fans.  Limited tickets remain at thekeywesttheater.com.

Who can say they’ve starred alongside Rowan Atkinson, landed roles with Mel Brooks and was cast on Saturday Night Live? Pamela Stephenson Connolly.She is making an indelible and unforgettable mark on Key West's cultural scene with celebrated international dancers and Emmy-nominated talent performing with her Key West International Dance Company/Pasion Project. The company is in the midst of four Broadway-worthy shows that span more than three months at the San Carlos Theater on Duval Street. The Florida Keys Weekly Podcast recently caught up with Connolly, who details her storied acting career; what it’s like being a regular contributor to The Guardian, an iconic news outlet; how she found time to earn a doctorate in psychology — and the key to a successful marriage of over 40 years with her soulmate and famed co-star in life, Sir Billy Connolly. 

They were signed by Jimmy Buffett’s label. They inked a three-year residency at the Palms Casino and have been shooting music videos with Mario Lopez.Yachtley Crew has officially launched a Yacht Rock revival across the globe. The seven-piece themed band brings its “Full Steam Ahead” tour to Key West on Oct. 29 at the Key West Theater. Britt Myers catches up with lead vocalist Phillip “Philly Ocean” Daniel on the band’s success and why they love bringing fun and joy back to  audiences across the world.  Oct 29 at the Key West Theater / Tickets at keywesttheater.com

He’s an internationally renowned DJ, a Miami style icon and the pregame opener for the Miami Heat for the past seven years. But perhaps the most intriguing facet of DJ Cardi is his humility. This is no small feat for someone who just returned from working a private gig for Dakota Johnson at the Toronto Film Festival. But catering to A-list stars like Leonardo DiCaprio or regularly performing at the Cannes Film Festival, Formula 1 Grand Prix and Pegasus World Cup is just another day’s work for the Miami native.  If that’s not enough, Cardi is a recognized fashion aficionado. Forbes recently hailed him as “one of Miami’s style icons,” where he curates soundscapes for brands such as Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Vogue.  On Oct. 12, the celebrity DJ will return to Key West to support United Way of Collier and the  Keys — a retirement benefit to celebrate Monroe County’s longest-serving elected official, Andy Griffiths.  DJ Cardi joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his love for South Florida, the influences that shaped his eclectic style and his love for exquisite cuisine and movies.  Limited tickets remain for DJ Cardi, performing at Andy Griffiths’ “Gone Fishing” retirement benefit for United Way of Collier and the Keys on Oct. 12 at the Beachside Resort. Tickets are on sale now and available on web or Facebook at United Way of Collier and the Keys. https://uwcollierkeys.org/event/andy-griffiths-retirement-party/

Martin Dube and Steve Diamond join the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss their stop at the Key West Theater on Sept 22. The duo, professionally known as Dube Diamond: Dueling Impersonators, take over the Key West Theater for an evening of comedy, pageantry and mind-blowing talent. Larry King referred to the act as “a must see,” as they perform (often in character) dozens of the world’s most recognized ballads ranging from pop, rock, opera and disco. The duo discusses their growing popularity, the most difficult singers to impersonate and even go into character during a fun segment on this week’s show.  

Awaken: The Music of YES promises to be the tribute band of the summer.  Joe Luca, keyboardist and band leader of Awaken: The Music of YES, joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss their upcoming show on Sept 5 at the Key West Theater. Luca discusses how he and his band embarked on the journey of preserving the legacy of YES, as they tour and perform the legendary band's songs that span more than three decades. This is one of those interviews that peaks behind the curtain of professional entertainers with a passion for music. And you’ll see and hear why this is a can’t miss show as the band hits Key West in the coming days. 

Musician Tim Williams joined Keys Weekly digital editor Gwen Filosa on the Key West Side Tracks podcast for a deep dive on one of the most endearing and enduring albums of the past half century: August and Everything After by Counting Crows.  The Tim Williams Band is headed to the Key West Theater on Monday, Aug. 12, to perform August and 30 Years After: A Counting Crows Tribute.  Tim arrived in Key West in July to play shows in Key West and dropped by the Weekly’s office on Stock Island. From “Mr. Jones” to “Anna Begins,” Tim and Gwen go song-by-song sharing what they find meaningful in the roots rock staple.  Tim and his band will play in its entirety the smash debut album by Counting Crows, released Sept. 14, 2023, to rave reviews and eventually sold seven times platinum.  As he introduced Counting Crows on his show in 1994, David Letterman said, "And I’m telling you something, if you don’t have a copy of this, there’s something wrong with you.” Key West Side Tracks is presented by the Keys Weekly Newspapers, the only locally owned and operated media outlet in the Florida Keys. Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Gwen Filosa hosts the podcast, with a wide-ranging guest list that includes touring musicians as they make stops in Key West, along with local creatives. Key West Side Tracks is available wherever you find podcasts.  keysweekly.com

Liza Jane, a singer-songwriter from Key West, is currently living in Los Angeles where she writes songs, performs and works on a career that has taken off with hits, music videos and live shows -- including playing Hollywood's Viper Room and Troubadour.  She started singing at age 2 and never looked back, later becoming a classically trained musician who lived in Nashville before moving to L.A. Today, her original songs "Unbreakable," "Sacrifice" and "Man or the Monster" are successes in the electronic dance music world. lizajanesmusic.com Key West Side Tracks, presented by the Keys Weekly Newspapers, is hosted by digital editor Gwen Filosa, a Pulitzer Prize winner who has covered the Keys for 13 years.  If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review on wherever you find podcasts.  keysweekly.com

Joy Nulisch, of Key West, is a true "Conch," as those born and raised on the island are known. She joined Gwen to talk about the legendary, near-professional level of the Key West High School Conch baseball program, the island's tight-knit, familial community that welcomes tourists and transplants without hesitation, adopting her dog, Tito, and what it's like retiring from the Monroe County School District after 35 years on the job. Key West Side Tracks is hosted by Gwen Filosa, Keys Weekly digital editor and Pulitzer Prize winner for her part of covering the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005. Keys Weekly is the only locally owned and operated news organization in the Florida Keys.  keysweekly.com The Keys Weekly Newspaper's three editions -- Key West, Marathon and Upper Keys -- publish every Thursday. Check out keysweekly.com. No paywalls, no email sign-ups required.  joynulisch.com The Bring Joy podcast, hosted by Joy Nulisch s available anywhere podcasts are found. 

Director Noah Salzman and actor Germain Arroyo join Gwen to talk about their film 'Clocked' (2023), the story of Adolfo, an 18-year-old Puerto Rican boxer who fears being accepted as transgender by his conservative Catholic family. 'Clocked,' at its heart a sweet film about family ties and self-acceptance, has made the film festival rounds, including in Key West, Miami and Sedona, to rave reviews. Salzman said they're now looking for a distributor to release the film to the public.  keysweekly.com Photo: Writer-director Noah Salzman, Germain Arroyo and Danell Leyva on the set of Clocked. Clocked photo

The Bubbas are back, and it's time to nominate your favorite Key West restaurants, bars, businesses, musicians, artists, attractions and community notables for the 11th annual people's choice awards.  On this episode, publisher Britt Myers, Key West Weekly editor Mandy Miles and advertising director Stephanie Mitchell answer readers' questions about the nominating process.  Nominations are open online through June 16. You can make your picks once per day on keysweekly.com. Only an email address is needed to take part.  Since its inception, more than 1,000 winners have been crowned in nearly 100 categories, and more than $175,000 has been raised for local nonprofits. This year’s nonprofit recipient is Wesley House Family Services.' Follow Keys Weekly on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) for updates on the Bubbas and to ask us any questions about nominations and voting. 

Florida Keys Film Commissioner Chad Newman joins Gwen to talk about Hollywood's long-term relationship with the Keys.   The much-anticipated Bad Monkey, based on the Carl Hiaasen novel, was shot in Key West. Starring Vince Vaughn and produced by Bill Lawrence (Ted Lasso, Shrinking), the 10-episode comedy series premieres Aug. 14 on Apple TV. Key West Side Tracks is produced by the Keys Weekly Newspapers, a locally owned and operated news organization with the largest print circulation in the Keys.  keysweekly.com

Paul Menta is a chef, a rum distiller, a competitive kite-boarder and the guy who put together a second-line parade in memory of Jimmy Buffett within 16 hours of the announcement that the legendary singer-songwriter had died Sept. 1, 2023.  Now, Paul is among the Key West locals starring in the season premiere of Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, which airs May 27 at 9 p.m. on the National Geographic Channel. Paul joined Gwen to talk about how he did battle with celebrity chef Ramsay in a final cooking showdown.  Photo credit: National Geographic Channel

The Undercovers present Rogers, Richie & Robinson: the songs of Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie and Smokey Robinson like you've never heard them before.  World-class singers Luke McMaster, Kevin Pauls and Joel Parisien are on tour, reimagining songs that have become the soundtrack of our lives in astonishing harmonies. Classics like Smokey Robinson's "Cruising", Kenny Rogers' “The Gambler” and Lionel Ritchie's "Endless Love" are just a few on their playlist. Smokey Robinson has called the group's “Ooh Baby Baby” the best cover of his song he’s ever heard. Discover the stories about the songs and the songwriters, and the connections between them.  The Undercovers are scheduled to perform at the Key West Theater on May 11. Tickets https://thekeywesttheater.com/e/?event=537138

Nancy Klingener, the community affairs manager for the Monroe County Public Library, joins Gwen to talk about how she keeps the library's events, history archives and many no-cost services in the spotlight via social media.  Nancy, a veteran journalist in Key West for 30 years for numerous news organizations, took here talents to the Keys library system to in August 2022.  Since then, she's posted fantastic Twitter threads on Keys history that brings to life the greatest hits from the island chain, including before and after photos of Keys landmarks, oddball crimes, Duval Street arrivals and closings, and the sponging era. For the historic photo of a man holding his enormous catch of sponges from the ocean, Nancy is grateful AI hasn't created a scent feature. 

Britt Myers interviewed Brian Vander Ark, the lead singer of The Verve Pipe, ahead of their April 25 show at the Key West Theater. The multi-platinum alternative rock band is famous for their hits "Photograph," "Hero," "Never Let You Down" and the no. 1 smash single "The Freshmen." The Verve Pipe released their first rock album in over 13 years with Overboard, a collection of ten new songs including the haunting title track. They soon followed with Parachute and their first-ever live album, Villains – Live & Acoustic, featuring an acoustic re-imaging of their platinum debut album Villains. Their latest is the critically acclaimed Threads. www.brianvanderark.com

Famed "Peanuts" artist Tom Everhart, who continued the work of Peanuts creator Charles Schulz, joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast as he prepares for his show and appearances at Ocean Blue Galleries, 109 Duval St. in Key West on March 10 & 11. Everhart discuses his tutelage and enduring friendship with Peanuts creator Charles Schulz, who approved Everhart as the only artist legally authorized to use the cartoonist's subject matter to create fine art. Everhart also recalls a conversation with Andy Warhol that persuaded him to seize the opportunity to work with Schulz, and reveals how his battle with — and victory over — stage 4 colon and liver cancer changed his perspective on art and life over 30 years ago. 

Philly sports legend joins Keys Weekly podcast If you haven’t caught any of the Keys Weekly Podcast yet, start with this episode, our latest one. Philadelphia sports legend Pat Croce showed up last week at the Keys Weekly office in Key West to sit down with publisher Britt Myers and managed to blow him away. Croce is known internationally as a wildly successful sports physical therapist and trainer for the Philadelphia Eagles and Flyers. After he sold his network of sports physical therapy centers, Croce became an NBA owner of the then-struggling Philadelphia 76ers, who managed to turn the team, and some would say the city of fans, around in five years. Tune into keysweekly.com or wherever you listen to podcasts to catch the latest episode of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast featuring Pat Croce with Britt Myers and Annie Briening.

Award-winning Florida columnist and novelist Carl Hiaasen joins Britt Myers and Mandy Miles on the latest episode of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast. Following the release of his latest young-adult book, "Wrecker," which takes place in Key West, and just weeks before he joins the Key West Literary Seminar's panel of distinguished Florida writers, Hiaasen talks to us about his 30+ years covering South Florida and the Keys. He has exposed corruption, shamed elected officials and worked feverishly to protect our fragile ecosystems. And he's done it all with an acerbic wit and incomparable irreverence. Carl Hiaasen has covered everything in Florida from the '80s cocaine wars to today's culture wars and now he's in Key West with us recalling the best and worst of times.  

Brad Bertelli lives in the past, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Widely considered one of the resident history buffs in the Florida Keys, Bertelli joins our podcast to discuss the origins and tales that make the Florida Keys so wildly unique. From Native American encounters and Spanish treasure seekers to American presidents and pirates, Bertelli offers his captivating brand of storytelling to the rich history of the Keys. So join us for a blast into the past with Brad Bertelli, a regular contributor to the Key Weekly Newspapers and one of the few people to (perhaps) ever encounter the elusive Florida Keys Skunk Ape. 

Tim Brown worked his way into the Hollywood mainstream, now boasting a celebrated resume as producer, writer and director in the movie business. His latest film, “The Retirement Plan,” is currently streaming on all major platforms and includes a star-studded cast including Nicolas Cage, Ron Perlman, Ashley Greene and Jackie Earle Haley. Tim joins our podcast to discuss the dedication and drive it takes to make it in showbiz, along with his humble approach to directing some of the biggest stars on the planet. Movie lovers will love Tim Brown, whose dynamic personality and creative approach to life are just as engaging as his films — so grab your popcorn and enjoy. 

Very few men can say they trained, sparred with and still share a special friendship with Mike Tyson. Tom Patti is one of them. His relationship with the champ originated under the legendary trainer “Cus” D’Amato. Patti joins the the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his lifelong friendship with Tyson, his list of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers in history and a massive affordable housing project he and Tyson are embarking on in the near future. Today, Patti serves as an elected County Supervisor in San Joaquin, California, where he is recognized for his servitude and philanthropic endeavors. So lace up the gloves and join us as we chat with the five-time state and Golden Gloves champ, Tom Patti. 

Nick Norman and Mike Stack are two of Key West’s most celebrated local musicians. In fact, singer-songwriter Nick Norman is a former winner of the Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Award for “Best Local Musician,” while Stack, known for his popular hiphop track, “I’m From Key West," was voted “Best Local Celebrity” in 2022. So when the two teamed on a song we had to hear more — and you can, too. Listen to an acoustic sneak peek of “Yesterday’s Rain” performed live on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast, hear about Stack’s favorite recording space (Hint: it’s his bathroom), and future plans between the two artists. 

The Dirty Heads return to Key West on Aug. 9 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, and we caught up with Jared “Dirty J” Watson on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss their upcoming show. To date, the California-based band has produced eight albums, collaborated across genres with dozens of performers (such as Pat Monahan of Train and Cypress Hill) and created some of the world’s most recognizable hits such as “Lay Me Down,” Vacation,” and “Rescue Me.” Watson gets candid about his creative journey within sobriety, a unique secret about his bandmate and best friend, Duddy, and why their latest album, “Midnight Control," is their best yet. For more on their Key West show, visit thekeywestamp.com.

See Creature is challenging the norms of Nashville as they pioneer and blend country, rock and reggae into Coastal American Alternative Music.  It’s a rare opportunity these days to chat with a band that is on the ascent to stardom — before the average fan has discovered their sound and the blizzard of downloads begins. But that’s just what we did with See Creature on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast this past week. In town for Key West Songwriters Festival, See Creature is composed of three accomplished musicians who are challenging the norms of Nashville and Country Music. Rob Snyder, a Philly native (who has written No. 1 songs for stars like Luke Combs and performed on music’s biggest stages) joined forces with Ryan Nelson and Job Fortner to create a unique fusion that includes rock, reggae and country elements into a Coastal American Alternative genre they may very well be pioneering. Most of all, the three are as fun to chat with as they are to listen to on stage, so join us as we dig in with See Creature to discuss their anticipated new album, their plans to travel the nation and how the three juggle family, careers and friendship along the way.  

Country music’s most unconventional star, Jelly Roll, joins our podcast before headlining the 27th Annual Key West Songwriters' Festival on May 5. The Nashville native discusses his sudden ascent into stardom, his accomplished hip hop roots and his recent takeover at the CMT Music Awards, where he won all three of the categories he was nominated for. And the best part? The famed “Son of a Sinner” — and husband to Bunnie XO — loves sharing fantastic stories from his journey and lightening the mood on a podcast episode you don’t want to miss. 

Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his “once in a lifetime experience” flying aboard an F/A-18 Super Hornet with the elite Blue Angels. He and our host, Britt Myers, were recently selected by the Blue Angels to take a 45-minute flight that included flying the speed of sound, maneuvers that pressed over 7 G’s of force against their bodies and inverted spins that tested their consciousness. Key West Weekly editor, Mandy Miles, co-hosts this episode and recounts her own experience aboard a Blue Angels jet back in 2006. So come take a ride with Chief Sean Brandenburg and discover why he's one of the most beloved public figures in all of the Florida Keys. 

Robert Wyland, known to millions simply as Wyland, is one of the most renowned and recognized artists and conservationists on the globe. He joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his love for the Florida Keys, his Whaling Wall murals seen around the world and the 45th anniversary of Wyland Galleries. USA Today called him the “Marine Michelangelo” and during his career an estimated 1 billion people have seen his artwork on an annual basis. But for us in the Keys, he’s a guy who regularly shows up and gives back to the community, which is why we hope you enjoy a few minutes with one of our favorites. 

Kirby Myers joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss her popular column in the Keys Weekly on sobriety and how her personal journey has led to a path of spiritual and physical happiness. Kirby is the wife of our host, Britt Myers, and the two discuss the dynamics of her sobriety in their marriage, along with how her choice to write and speak openly on the topic has reshaped how she and many others view the stigma around the term “alcoholic.”  Kirby is the owner of Kirby’s Closet in Key West and a regular contributor to the Keys Weekly Newspapers.

Kyle Carter joins us on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to explain how he and his team are pulling off the impossible task of producing three major music festivals in three weeks, with over 150 bands and names that include Styx, Tesla, Clint Black, Pat Green, Sara Evans, The Oakridge Boys and many more. From RokIsland Fest, Mile 0 Fest and Key Western Fest — tickets are on sale now with RokIsland Fest kicking off on Jan 17. Kyle also revisits his success with the biggest names in music throughout his career and his place in helping to make Key West one of the top live music destinations in the world.

People talk about changing the world every day, but some actually make the mission a lifelong journey. The last time we spoke with author, professor and philanthropist Alex Counts on the Keys Weekly Podcast, we discussed his book, "When in Doubt. Ask for More: And 213 Other Life and Career Lessons for Mission-Driven Leaders.” During his most recent visit, Counts discusses his book, "Small Loans Big Dreams,” which shares intimate stories about how microfinance and the Grameen Bank have changed the lives of impoverished women and their families in America and across the globe. Counts discusses why we should rethink how the world approaches loans and how his microfinance approach, created by his mentor Muhammad Yunus, applies practical life tools and valuable lessons, in addition to the loans, to change the trajectory of poverty. 

Andy Siegal was hired in 1994 to coach the Key West Conchs’ football team. At just 24 years old, he was the youngest head football coach in the state. Taking the team to the postseason in both of his years coaching, his career since Key West has spanned across many high schools, universities and consulting positions. Listen as coach Sean McDonald catches up with Siegal to talk about his foray into the coaching world, his fondest memories of Key West, including a district championship, and his plans for a new sports-themed restaurant, “Coach’s Championship Grill.”

You might not recognize the name Danny Clinch, but you've seen his work. Some of the most iconic photo shoots in music, from album covers to documentaries, have been captured by the imaginative eye of Clinch and his camera. From Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, Bob Dylan and Stevie Nicks to Neil Young, Elvis Costello and Steve Martin, Clinch is the artist stars request to capture and document their moments in time and in musical history.  Clinch will be in Key West on Dec. 1, taking part in the COAST is Clear Music Festival, where he will showcase a photography exhibit at the Tropic Cinema, followed by a screening of his documentary, “A Tuba to Cuba,’  which follows the Preservation Hall Jazz Band (who will perform later that evening at the San Carlos Institute) through an unforgettable journey to Cuba. The Florida Keys Weekly Podcast and Britt Myers caught up with Clinch before his arrival, discussing his relationship with Springsteen, how (Imaybe) he is still starstruck by Bob Dylan and why you might be surprised to hear the details of a particular photoshoot with Tupac  Shakur. For more on the COAST is Clear Music & Arts Festival and tickets visit: coastisclearfest.com.

In the latest edition of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast we are joined by legendary Key West High baseball coach Ralph Henriquez. During his 17 years at KWHS, Henriquez has won over 538 games, along with three state titles. His Conch baseball teams have been ranked as high as No. 1 in the nation under his tenure and over 120 of his players have signed college scholarships, with 11 of his student athletes drafted into the pros straight out of high school. Henriquez discusses his coaching stints with the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees systems and is joined by Scott Atwell as we chat about what it takes to build a winning culture, the expectations that come with winning in a baseball town—and a moving tribute to the late, legendary pitcher, Bruce Sutter. 

Warren Haynes is widely considered one of the greatest live performers to ever command a stage. And on Oct. 18, Haynes and his band, Government Mule, will play the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West.  Haynes’ career includes stints with the Allman Brothers, Grateful Dead and dozens of collaborations with legendary names across the music spectrum, along with almost three decades of Government Mule projects and solo work.  The Florida Keys Weekly Podcast recently caught up with the Grammy-winning artist. The discussion ranges from his earlier years, including his first-ever live gig with Gregg Allman on Duval Street, to which artists Haynes believes will carry the guitar hero torch into the next generations of music.

Key West natives, also known as “Conchs,” are one of the most unique and endearing sub-cultures in the United States. Many Conchs share ancestry from various regions of Europe and North America, yet most migrated by way of the Bahamas in the early 1800s for the thriving agriculture, fishing and sponging trade around Key West. Today, many locals (or Conchs) remain in Key West with shared attributes and traits that include hard work, craftsmanship, generosity and a “family first” approach above all else. Conch attributes are often distinguishable at first glance. They share a unique accent that many describe as a "mix of Cajun and Northeastern dialect." Conchs are typically history lovers and adept storytellers, serving as the scribes of local maritime mythology and remarkable tales of old Key West. In this edition of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast, we celebrate Pat Labrada, born and raised in Key West and a respected Conch who has impacted many generations of Key West men and women through his service as a teacher and football coach. The Key West High School grad earned an Arts degree from Bethany College, but remained in Key West throughout his early adult life, serving 8 years on the Monroe County School Board, past President of the Rotary Club of Key West, past chairman of the Military Affairs Committee and currently serves as an elected official on the Key West Utility Board. Labrada has worked in the local mortgage industry for over three decades, but his proudest accolades are centered around his family and faith. Labrada is a parishioner of St Mary’s Star of the Sea and he and his wife Terri have three children and six grandchildren.  Stay up to date with the Florida Keys only locally owned newspaper at www.KeysWeekly.com with the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast. #LocalMediaMatters

John Picco's pedigree in naval aviation includes over 3,000 flight hours, 800 carrier landings and 80 combat missions. Oh, and did we mention the Navy Wings of Gold recipient also graduated from Top Gun in 2000? So who better to join the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast just as "Top Gun: Maverick" becomes the summer blockbuster. Host Britt Myers and guest John Picco give listeners an inside look at the real Top Gun school and pilots, while Picco offers comparisons between the movies and the real thing.  📰 Stay up to date with the Florida Keys only locally owned newspaper at www.KeysWeekly.com with the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast. #LocalMediaMatters

Alex Counts had a world of opportunity awaiting him after graduating from Cornell University. Yet he made the choice to travel the globe with an agenda to change the world. While spending over a decade in Bangladesh, Counts played a critical role in the global microcredit movement, which he utilized as an essential tool to battle world poverty. In addition, he established the Grameen Foundation, which grew to become a leading international humanitarian organization, with the support of his mentor, Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. Today, Counts is a professor at the University of Maryland and continues to share his leadership and philanthropic experiences with local leaders, including nonprofits and boards across the world. Counts, who has been published in The Washington Post, The Miami Herald and many other national publications, joins us on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his latest book, “When In Doubt Ask For More: And 213 Other Life & Career Lessons for the Mission-Driven Leader.” Whether you are new to boards or have years of fundraising involvement, we promise Counts’ motivating approach and decades of shared experiences have the power to inspire you or your organization.