Tales From South Florida: History of the People and Places That Shaped South Florida
Tales From South Florida is a storytelling podcast exploring South Florida history, old Florida landmarks, forgotten towns, and the people who shaped Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and beyond.Take a Talk Down Memory Lane as we uncover the stories that time almost forgot…The Hollywood Sportatorium, Pirates World, Rascal House, Pioneer City, and Sunrise Musical Theater. The Coral Castle. If these names spark fun-filled memories, well, you are in the right place.Buy Me a Coffee to SUPPORT the Show.https://buymeacoffee.com/billmonty0bThank you!Don't miss out on the adventure – be sure to LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE to immerse your...
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Whether you grew up here or just visited once or twice, come home to the podcast that remembers when times were simpler, the skis were always sunny, and every day was a beach day.
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Jimmy Buffett: Sunset in Margaritaville
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He became the face and voice for Florida good times and made the Florida Keys THE place to be. When he passed on September 2, 2023, he left a gap in the hearts of Parrotheads everywhere and while Bill Monty doesn't call himself a Parrothead, his love of the music and attitude of the Caribbean troubadour drove him to the microphone to record The Tale of Jimmy Buffett.
What's your favorite song by Jimmy Buffett? Write or call and let us know.
1.17.24
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My Top 10 Jimmy Buffett Songs
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Jimmy Buffett died September 1, 2023, at age 76, but his legacy is usually intertwined with South Florida and the Keys. He didn't merely write about the Florida lifestyle—he helped create the modern cultural image of Key West for millions of people around the world. His music defines the Florida experience, especially the Florida Keys lifestyle that existed once upon a time, more than any other person to date.
As we remember Florida's adopted troubadour son on the anniversary of his passing, I pay tribute to my 10 favorite son...
Tales From South Florida Promo
Join us for all of the fun, history and stories that South Florida has to offer on the podcast Tales From South Florida. For more information or to listen, visit TalesFromSouthFlorida.com
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Share your Memories here: Send a voice message to TalesFromSouthFlorida
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Mails From South Florida: Your Letters and Messages
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This episode I'm shining the spotlight, or sunbeams, on you, the loyal, much-loved listeners and answering all of the burning questions you have about me and the podcast.
Be a part of the next Mailbag episode and submit your questions, comments and thoughts. Just visit TalesFromSouthFlorida.com and use the SpeakPipe and/or Email links. It's as easy as Key Lime pie.
#podcastlisteners #southflorida #miami #vacationflorida #fortlauderdale #miamidadecounty #nostalgia
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Celebrity Reflection 3-Night Cruise Review: Is It Worth the Money?
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Set sail with me aboard the Celebrity Reflection as we find out whether a 3-night Celebrity Cruise getaway from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale is really worth your time and money.
If you're considering a short Bahamas cruise, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you decide before you book.
We'll cover:
* Is a 3-night Celebrity Reflection cruise a good value?
* How is the food and dining experience?
* Is the service everything Celebrity Cruises is...
When America Declared Independence: South Florida in 1776
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Discussed in this episode: Key Biscayne Lighthouse The Cooley Massacre
When Americans celebrate the Declaration of Independence every Fourth of July, images of Philadelphia, the Founding Fathers, and the American Revolution immediately come to mind. But what was happening in South Florida on July 4, 1776?
The answer is fascinating.
At the time America declared its independence, Florida remained a British colony, and what is now Miami was one of the most isolated frontiers in North Ame...
James Neville McArthur: A Pioneer of Milk and Money
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In this episode, I explore the life and legacy of Florida businessman James Neville McArthur, the founding father of the never-to-be-forgotten McArthur Dairy but who was also a major contibutor to the cultural and educational growth of all of South Florida. Heck, they even named a high school aafter him. Guess which one.
Join me on this TALK DOWN MEMORY LANE as we recall one of the pioneers of South Florida
#SouthFloridaHistory #FloridaHistory #McArthurDairy #JamesNevilleMcArthur #MiamiHistory #FortLauderdale #HollywoodFL #PlantationFL #OldFlorida #FloridaMemories #UniversityOfMiami #Fl...
William and Mary Brickell: Pioneers of South Florida
Long before Miami became one of the world's most famous cities, it was a remote frontier settlement along the Miami River. In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we explore the lives of William and Mary Brickell, their friendship with Julia Tuttle, their partnership with Henry Flagler, and the events that led to the founding of Miami in 1896.
Discover what Miami was called before incorporation, how the Great Freeze helped change Florida's future, and why the Brickell name remains one of the most recognized names in South Florida today.
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The Lake Okeechobee Hurricane of 1928
In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we explore one of the deadliest natural disasters in American history — the devastating 1928 Lake Okeechobee Hurricane.
Discover what South Florida was like during the Florida land boom of the 1920s, how farming communities around Lake Okeechobee grew rapidly, and how a catastrophic hurricane changed the region forever.
This episode is a powerful look at resilience, remembrance, and one of the most important events in Florida history.
Please like, follow, subscribe, and share the podcast.
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Ode to the Hollywood Sportatorium
A song honoring that big, steel barn with lousy acoustics, a leaky roof and our youthful memories all in one place; The Hollywood Sportatorium.
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Written by Bill Monty with vocals and music by SUNO.
2.14.26
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Julia Tuttle and Eddie Rickenbacker: Pioneers of South Florida
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Who were Julia Tuttle and Eddie Rickenbacker?
In this episode of Tales From South Florida, Bill Monty takes a closer look at two often-overlooked figures who helped shape modern Miami in very different ways.
You may have driven across the Julia Tuttle Causeway on your way to Miami Beach or crossed the Rickenbacker Causeway heading toward Key Biscayne—but do you know the fascinating stories behind the names?
Pr...
South Florida's Wild Kingdom
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Explore the fascinating world of animal species found only in Florida. From the elusive Florida panther to the tiny Key deer and rare Miami blue butterfly, this episode of Tales From South Florida takes you on a nostalgic journey through the wild side of the Sunshine State.
PLUS: stay tuned to the end for the first of our FLORIDA FUN FACTS
#FloridaWildlife #SouthFlorida #Everglades #FloridaKeys #NaturePodcast #WildFlorida #FloridaPanther #KeyDeer #TakeATalkDownMemoryLane #TalesFromSouthFlorida #FloridaNature #OldFlorida #PodcastLife #Ecosystem
What's In A Name: Broward, Dade and Monroe Counties
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Every day we travel from Broward County to Miami-Dade County to Monroe County, but have you ever stopped to wonder why the counties have those names? I have. Come with me, your host Bill Monty, to Take a TALK Down Memory Lane and explore the origins of Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties in South Florida, tracing their names to key historical figures and events. From early U.S. territorial expansion to the Seminole Wars and the transformation of the Everglades, the episode...
Hugh Taylor Birch and The Bonnet House: Pioneers of South Florida
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Take a TALK Down Memory Lane and explore the life and legacy of Hugh Taylor Birch, the Chicago businessman whose land purchases helped shape Fort Lauderdale’s development. The story continues through his daughter Helen Birch Bartlett and her husband Frederic Clay Bartlett, whose artistic vision created the historic Bonnet House estate. Together, their legacy helped preserve vital natural land in Broward County and led to the creation of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. These are true Pioneers of South Florida.
Me...
Yamato: South Florida's Forgotten Town
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Once upon a time there was a small agricultural community founded by a group of immigrants looking for a better life. The whole enterprise was successful for a brief moment in time. Now it exists as the name of a road in Boca Raton and in the beauty of the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane as we revisit the forgotten town of Yamato, Fl.
#floridatravel #browardcounty #history #stories #miznerpark #bocaraton
Mentioned in this episode: South Florida S...
Revisting the Hollywood Sportatorium with New Music
One of the first episodes in the Tales From South Florida podcast series was a TALK Down Memory Lane to recall an old steel hanger of a concert venue that captivated the hearts, souls and memories of most of us who lived here from the early 1970's through the early 1990's; The Hollywood Sportaatorium.
In this episode we go back to that podcast, but we've added something new. A musical tribute written by Bill Monty truly with vocals and music by SUNO.
Please note that this music is copyrighted and all rights reserved by the...
Arthur McDuffie and the 1980 Miami Riots
In this powerful episode of Tales From South Florida, we Take a TALK Down Memory Lane to one of the most painful and defining moments in Miami history—the killing of Miami resident Arthur McDuffie, the police cover-up that followed, and the 1980 Miami riots that changed the city forever.
Content Advisory: This episode discusses real historical events involving police violence, civil unrest, and loss of life. Listener discretion is advised. The intent of this episode is educational and reflective, honoring history while encouraging understanding and dialogue.
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The Day It Snowed in Miami
It was a day unlike any other in modern memory for South Floridians.
January 19, 1977. The Day It Snowed. In South Florida. For approximately 1 1/2 hours, little snow flurries dotted the landscape normally home to green grass and, sand and sunshine. It was as if a miracle was occuring. One we still talk about today. One that threatens to bring down social media every January 19.
Where were you on that chilly Wednesday morning?
Join me on A TALK Down Memory Lane, but bring a heavy jacket, as we recall th...
Adventures in Miami-Parrot Jungle, Jungle Island, Monkey Jungle
It's a jungle out there, South Florida. Miami has been home to some of the best, most unique theme attractions anywhere, so let's Take a TALK Down Memory Lane to recall what was and what still is in animal adventures in our little corner of the Sunshine State.
Mentioned in this episode:
Key Biscayne and the Miami Seaquarium -https://www.buzzsprout.com/2260646/episodes/17631635-key-biscayne-paradise-with-a-past
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Hollywood, Florida: Joseph Young's Dream
In this episode of Tales From South Florida,Take a TALK Down Memory Lane as host Bill Monty explores the founding and evolution of Hollywood, Florida — from scrubland and marshes to a planned, grand “City By the Sea.” Learn how developer Joseph Wesley Young, Jr. laid out wide boulevards, man-made lakes, a beachfront promenade, and a dream community that became one of Broward County’s and Florida's most beloved seaside towns.
We trace the ups and downs — the 1920s boom, the 1926 hurricane, post-WWII growth — and how today’s Historic Downtown and the laid-back...
Miami’s Freedom Tower: The Ellis Island of the South
In this episode of Tales from South Florida, we dive deep into the 100ʳᵗʰ anniversary of the iconic Freedom Tower in downtown Miami. We trace its journey from a 1925 newspaper skyscraper to the famed “Ellis Island of the South” for Cuban refugees, and now a restored museum celebrating migration, memory and hope. Join us for a warm and conversational stroll through Miami’s past, present and cultural heartbeat.
#FreedomTower #Miami history #Cuban exile #immigrationSouthFlorida #centennial celebration #historiclandmarksMiami, #SouthFloridaculture
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The Skunk Ape: Florida's Bigfoot
Halloween is coming soon and there are almost as many scary stories about Florida to be told than there are waves at a beach. And it seems that some of them may be true.
Yes, I know, legends abound everywhere but in Florida we grow them big, loud, and...smelly?
You've heard of Bigfoot? Sasquatch? The Abominable Snowman? Well get ready to meet, our very own Skunk Ape.
Join me for another TALK Down Memory Lane as we explore another of the many Tales From South Florida.
Related Episode - Haunted S...
From Hollywood to Hollywood: Interview with Hometown Filmmaker Joseph Greco
Hollywood, Florida is turning 100 this year! But what do you get a city that’s celebrating a full century of sunshine, stories, and South Florida style?
In this special centennial episode, we’re honoring one of Hollywood’s own — a hometown talent who traded our palm-lined boulevards for the glitz of Hollywood, California. It’s a journey that bridges two coasts and two versions of the same dream: from the beaches of Broward County to the backlots of the entertainment capital of the world.
Take a TALK Down Memory Lane as Bill Monty speaks wit...
Gambling SoFla Style: Jai Alai, Cruises to Nowhere, and Old Time Casinos
The history of gambling in South Florida is as colorful as it is nostalgic. On this TALK Down Memory Lane, we dive into the world of smoky jai alai frontons, the thrill of betting on Joey and other players, and those unforgettable “cruises to nowhere” where the real destination was the blackjack table.
From Meyer Lansky and the mob’s early casinos in Hallandale, to the neon-lit days of the SeaEscape and SunCruz ships, all the way to the modern Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, South Florida has always been rolling the dice on chance, money, and dreams.
S...
Happy International Podcast Day!
We're celebrating International Podcast Day today! Thank you for your support of my podcasts, Tales from South Florida and Bill Monty's Guide for Getting Older, BUT, if you've ever wondered what I listen to, I'm gonna tell you here.
I hope that you will give these independent podcasters a listen because they are the heart and soul of podcasting around the world.
So, hit that play button and let's get started.
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WPLG Local 10 Breaks Free: A New Era in South Florida Broadcasting
On August 4, 2025, South Florida media history was made. After more than 60 years as a major TV network affiliate, WPLG Local 10 boldly stepped away to reinvent itself as an independent powerhouse in Miami-Fort Lauderdale broadcasting.
What really happened behind the scenes? Why now? And what does this bold move mean for the future of local television in South Florida?
In this episode of Tales From South Florida, I sit down with WPLG’s Director of Community Relations, Mayte Padron, to uncover the story behind th...
The Gilded Age of South Florida: Addison Mizner
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In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we wrap up our series on the Gilded Age of South Florida with my favorite figure from that era: Addison Mizner. And "character" is the perfect word to describe him.
From humble beginnings to becoming the visionary architect of Palm Beach and Boca Raton, Mizner had no formal training in architecture, yet he went on to design some of Florida’s most iconic landmarks. His story is one of...
The Gilded Age of South Florida: Vizcaya and The Deering Brothers
If The Gilded Age ever took a detour to South Florida, Charles and James Deering would be front and center—visionaries whose influence shaped more than just opulent estates. In this episode of Tales From South Florida, we explore how these two brothers helped preserve Florida’s natural beauty while infusing its landscape with European elegance and cultural sophistication.
🏛️ From the lush grounds of the Deering Estate to the grandeur of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, their architectural masterpieces still whisper stories of ambition, artistry, and environmental stewardship. But their...
Key Biscayne: Paradise with a Past
🏝️ Key Biscayne: Paradise with a Past It’s been a haven for pirates, parrots, porpoises—and even presidents. Nestled just off the coast of Miami, Key Biscayne is one of South Florida’s most breathtaking gems. From sun-kissed beaches and winding bike trails to its iconic lighthouse and presidential legacy, this island has stories to tell.
Join Bill Monty for a captivating Talk Down Memory Lane as he uncovers the rich, colorful history of Key Biscayne—where adventure, beauty, and nostalgia meet.
Learn more about the battle of the Cape F...
Flamingo Gardens: A Florida Legacy in Bloom
🌴 Step into Old Florida Charm at Flamingo Gardens 🦩 Travel back in time and uncover the roots of one of Broward County’s most beloved family-friendly destinations—Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Florida. From lush botanical gardens and rescued wildlife to vintage homes and engaging tram tours, this hidden gem offers a vibrant glimpse of Florida as it once was, at the dawn of the 20th century.
But how did it all begin? Like many treasured places, Flamingo Gardens was born from a dream, fueled by vision and perseverance. In this episode, we TAKE a TALK down...
Mystery in Stone: The Coral Castle
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Heartbreak can shatter some, but for one man, it became the foundation—literally—for a marvel that has baffled engineers and mystics alike. In Homestead, Florida, Edward Leedskalnin built Coral Castle as a tribute to the woman who left him at the altar. Standing just 5 feet tall and weighing only 100 pounds, Ed moved and carved massive coral stones—some weighing several tons—without machinery and allegedly without help.
Decades later, no one can fully explain how he did it. Was he a genius ahead of his t...
Pioneers of South Florida: Marjory Stoneman Douglas
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Discover the untold story of a Florida legend, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, on a journey through the remarkable life of the woman who gave voice—and fierce protection—to the Florida Everglades. You may recognize her name from a school or street sign, but her legacy runs far deeper. From her roots in Minneapolis to becoming the first female reporter at the Miami Herald and ultimately penning the book that redefined the future of the Sunshine State, Marjory's story is one of courage, grit, and unst...
Remembering Broward Community College and R.I.P. Joe Cappello
If you are lucky, you will meet many people who will mentor you, provide guidance and be a friend. Such a man was Joe Cappello, the Theater teacher at Broward Community college when I was a young man.
Take a TALK Down Memory Lane with me as I recall when Broward College was less than it is today, but it was also so much more. and the people that taught us were the last of their kind.
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Ralph Renick: May the Good News Be Yours
From 1949 to 1985, Ralph Renick was THE single most important News Anchor in South Florida. His informed, straightforward style made you feel comfortable, while his signature sign-off, "Good night and may the good news be yours" was a reassuring comment of hope in dark days.
Many have followed in his footsteps but none have equalled his accomplishments. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane with me and revisit one of South Florida's true legends.
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Musicians from South Florida
Step into the vibrant world of South Florida’s legendary musicians—singers, songwriters, and trailblazers who redefined the music industry and left an undeniable mark on culture.
From the soulful sounds of Sam and Dave to the infectious energy of KC and the Sunshine Band, and the unstoppable reign of Gloria Estefan, these icons shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
Join me as I honor their legacies, dive into their incredible journeys, and explore how their music continues to inspire. Celebrate the voices that made South Florida a powerhouse of rhythm, passion, and unforgettable hits.
On the Road: Montreal, Canada
Bonjour, travel lovers!
If you've ever wondered what it's like to swap palm trees for poutine, this one's for you. Season 2 kicks off with a special episode taking you on a journey from sunny South Florida to the charming streets of Montreal—a city our Canadian neighbors call home and one whose residents have given so much to our local economy over the years.
For our anniversary, Mrs. Monty and I set out to explore the rich history, stunning sights, and mouthwatering eats that make Montreal a must-visit destination. Joi...
The Top 5 Restaurants in South Florida
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You know this episode could have been titled Meals From South Florida because I recently sent out the following question in a survey; If you have a friend coming to South Florida for the first time, what would be the one restaurant that you would take them to?
The answers might surprise you and the #1 absolutely surprised me. Is your fave eating spot on the list? Le Tub? Joe's Stone Crabs? The Mai Kai Restaurant? Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor? Who made the list and who didn't? And...
Remember Christo's Pink Islands of Miami?
Let's take a TALK down Memory Lane to 1983 and an art exhibit that put South Florida, Miami, and Biscayne Bay front and center in the international at scene. Long before the Miami Vice and Art Deco craze an artistic powerhouse duo named Christi and Jeanne-Claude descended on 11 islands in Biscayne Bay and made history.
For two weeks, their unique vision regarding the relationship between Floridians and Biscayne Bay captured the hearts and minds of people world-wide, making history and controversy.
Love 'em or hate 'em, if you lived here at the time, everyone...
Who Was Skipper Chuck? - Peace, Love and Happiness
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If you grew up in South Florida in the 1960's - 1980' then the name Chuck Zink is not unfamiliar to you. But to many children of that era he was a superstar known simply as Skipper Chuck; a tv personality, a community fixture and a true south Florida legend.
Take a TALK Down Memory Lane as we remember one of our childhood heroes and a really nice guy.
Peace, Love and Happiness everyone.
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