Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

Author: Mark Baratto

The Backyards of Key West Podcast started with one simple idea: tell the real stories behind the island's most creative people. What began as a show about local business owners in Key West has evolved into a deeper dive into the world of art, entrepreneurship, and creative growth. Hosted by Mark Barattoartist, gallery owner, and founder of The Artist Growth Collectivethis podcast features weekly conversations with artists, gallery and studio owners, musicians, and entrepreneurs from across Key West and beyond. Whether you're here for the island vibes or looking to build a thriving art business, there's something in every episode to inspire you. New episodes drop every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Pandora, and more. Also airing Sundays at 10AM on 104.9FM in Key West. Learn more at https://www.skool.com/the-artist-growth-collective
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Language: en

Genres: Arts, Business, Entrepreneurship, Visual Arts

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Episode 269 – Don Oriolo: Felix the Cat, Zazoo Records & Wild Stories From a Legendary Career
Episode 269
Saturday, 2 August, 2025

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the legendary Don Oriolo—a powerhouse in the worlds of art, music, and pop culture. From his decades of work with the Felix the Cat franchise to his role in shaping music history (hello, Jon Bon Jovi & Meat Loaf!), Don shares personal stories that span generations of entertainment. 💥 Hear about: His first surreal meeting with John Lennon Fond memories of his friend Meat Loaf How Felix the Cat became his creative muse A surprise visit from Felix himself 😉 This conversation is a wild, inspiring ride that barely scratches the surface of Don's incredible life. 🎨 More on Don Oriolo & Zazoo Fine Art Gallery: Don Oriolo is an acclaimed artist, music producer, writer, and entrepreneur—known for: Leading the Felix the Cat legacy after his father Joe Oriolo (co-creator) passed Founding the Oriolo Guitar Company, featuring Felix-themed instruments Authoring multiple books of Felix-inspired art Signing artists like Meat Loaf and Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam Being named Artist of the Year (2015) by Fine Art Magazine Today, Don's colorful, cartoon-infused artwork is on display at Zazoo Fine Art Gallery in Key West—where you might even catch him painting live! 🔗 Website: zazooart.com 📸 Instagram: @zazooartkw 📘 Facebook: Zazoo Art Gallery 📚 Wiki: Don Oriolo – Wikipedia