Tales From South Florida - podcast cover

Tales From South Florida

Bill Montywww.buzzsprout.com

Embark on a TALK down memory lane with "Tales from South Florida," a podcast that dives deep into the rich tapestry of stories from the region. If places and names like the Hollywood Sportatorium, Pirates World, Rascal House, Pioneer City, and Sunrise Musical Theater bring back fun-filled memories, well, you are in the right place.

Based on his personal experiences growing up throughout South Florida, Bill Monty uncovers the hidden gems and legendary figures that have shaped South Florida's identity. 

Don't miss out on the adventure – be sure to LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE and tune in to "Tales from South Florida" and immerse yourself in the stories that make this corner of the world truly unique.


Join the FUN at our website, https://www.taesfromsouthflorida.com 

Comments or questions write to us at [email protected] or call at 754-800-3170. 

Episodes

Remembering Joe Cappello and Broward Community College

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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. Support the show Click the Leave A Message link above to text Bill Mo...

Jun 18, 202511 minSeason 2Ep. 4

Ralph Renick: May the Good News Be Yours

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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. Support the sh...

Jun 04, 202512 minSeason 2Ep. 3

Musicians from South Florida

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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 th...

May 21, 202515 minSeason 2Ep. 2

On the Road: Montreal, Canada

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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, a...

Apr 23, 202518 minSeason 2Ep. 1

What are the Top 5 Restaurants in SoFlo?

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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...

Apr 02, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 38

Remember Christo's Pink Islands of Miami?

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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 peop...

Mar 26, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 37

Who Was Skipper Chuck? - Peace, Love and Happiness

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Support the show Click the Leave A Message link above to text Bill Monty...FREE! Share your Memories here: Send a voice message to TalesFromSouthFlorida Visit our website at Tales From South Florida Join us on Bluesky, our new social media home. Google Bluesky and once there, search for Bill Monty. Share your South Florida memories with us at [email protected] or leave us a voice mail at 754-800-3170. Be sure to tell us your name and the ...

Mar 05, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 36

Spook Hill, Bok Tower, Chalet Suzanne: Florida Road Trip

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane as we continue on our Florida Toad Trip. This podcast episode let's hop in dad's maroon1968 Plymouth Fury and head north to a little town called Lake Wales, where cars roll up hills...backwards, an old chalet now serves people in need, and one of the most beautiful bird sanctuaries anywhere resides at the top of Iron Mountain and is the highest point in all of Florida. Lakes Wales holds a special place in my heart and I'm b...

Feb 19, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 35

Florida Road Trip: Stuckey's and Horne's

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Take a TALK down Memory Lane courtesy of a suggestion by one of you, our invaluable listeners. Years ago in the pre-Disney days, road trips were a source of escape, excitement and if you were lucky Pecan Log Rolls. These along with a myriad of Florida-themed delights could be found at two different stores: Stuckey's and Horne's. Once inside you could find lunch, breakfast, coconut patties, free orange juice samples, nuts, citrus fruit and so much more....

Jan 29, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 34

The Orange Bowl

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Happy New Year! And what New Year would be complete without recalling the wonder of the Orange Bowl. It was a legendary sports stadium that was home to the only Perfect Season in the NFL and a college football home-winning streak that was unrivalled. Next, what New Year celebration about the Orange Bowl would be complete without discussing one of the most enduring, exciting and exquisite holiday parades to ever surround a major collegiate bowl event: T...

Jan 15, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 33

Special Edition: Behind the Scenes

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Have you ever wanted a Behind the Scenes peek on podcasting and the people who do it? Join me for this special fifty-minute edition of Tales From South Florida with my friend Dave Campbell, a Canadian podcaster, who invited me to co-host with him on one of his EIGHT podcasts, The How To Podcast Series, which I was delighted to do. In the episode we chat about podcasting, life, and have a good time doing it. I'm sure you'll have a good time listening. I...

Jan 11, 202552 minSeason 1Ep. 32

More South Florida Holiday Memories

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. It's Part 2 of the TFSF reminiscences of celebrating the holidays in South Florida in yesteryear. This time though, I'd like you to join me on a special TALK Down Memory Lane as I recall our annual Christmas trips to Little Rock, Ak. These were incredibly special times, wish I'd appreciated that back then, and no matter your past celebrations I think you'll find some part of you and your family in this tale From South Florida. Don't forget to scroll do...

Dec 11, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 31

Holiday Memories of South Florida

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. The holidays in South Florida might be different than in other parts of the country but they are no less memorable. Join me as I recall the people places and events from those December traditions of yesteryear and today that warm our hearts. From driving around town to enjoy entire neighborhoods aglow with Christmas lights, to caroling with high school friends, to celebrating the annual Winterfest Boat Parade, this is the first of two holiday episodes ...

Dec 04, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Haulover Beach, Hollywood Beach and South Beach

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. In this episode, Bill Monty takes you on a nostalgic journey through the beaches of South Florida, recounting unforgettable memories from Hollywood Beach, South Beach, and Haulover Beach. He reflects on the simple joys of childhood, like having the taste of salt water on your lips for the first time, hanging out with friends, and experiencing the thrill of first dates and water sports. The episode highlights the timeless allure of these beaches—whether...

Nov 20, 202414 minSeason 1Ep. 29

Ellis Rubin: The Psychobabble Lawyer

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. On this episode of Tales From South Florida we look at attorney extraordinaire, Ellis Rubin , who for a time in the 70's through the 90's dominated the South Florida headlines with what one judge called "Psychobabble Defenses". From the Broward couple filming sex acts in their bedroom closet to the the teenager who murdered his neighbor because of TV to being instrumental in getting the NFL television blackouts lifted, Ellis Rubin was front and center ...

Oct 30, 202413 minSeason 1Ep. 28

Tales From South Florida Audio Promo

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. 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 Support the show Click the Leave A Message link above to text Bill Monty...FREE! Share your Memories here: Send a voice message to TalesFromSouthFlorida Visit our website at Tales From South Florida Join us on Bluesky, our new social media home. Google Bluesky and onc...

Oct 29, 202451 sec

Sunrise Musical Theater & Musicians Exchange

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Indoor venues for concerts were hard to find back in the day. Your choices were...well, one. The Hollywood Sportatorium. Until 1976 that is. Then in a little town called Sunrise, known mostly for condos, delis and retirees, a magical place was built that would host the biggest names in show biz; from Sinatra to Buffett and more. It was the Sunrise Musical Theater and the stories and memories for those of us who lived here when it was open almost rival ...

Oct 02, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 27

Hacienda Village, Ojus and Lazy Lake-South Florida Small Towns

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Join me, Bill Monty , on a nostalgic "Talk Down Memory Lane" as we uncover the hidden gems in this Tale from South Florida ! Amid the hustle and bustle of our sprawling suburbs, there’s a treasure trove of charming small towns waiting to be explored. In this podcast episode, we dive into the captivating stories of three unique communities: Hacienda Village, Ojus, and Lazy Lake . Discover their rich histories, quirky characters, and perhaps a few surpri...

Sep 22, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 26

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Key Largo Memories

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane! Join your host, Bill Monty, as he takes you on a vivid journey to one of Florida’s and the United States' premier destinations: Key Largo and the iconic John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Ever wondered who John Pennekamp was and how this world-renowned underwater park and sanctuary came into existence? Bill dives into the fascinating history and shares personal anecdotes about his favorite experiences in this underwater...

Sep 04, 202413 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Remember Hurricane Andrew?

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane. In August 1992, Hurricane Andrew unleashed its fury, tearing through the western side of Dade County with unparalleled force. This devastating storm didn't just bring destruction—it transformed lives. Host Bill Monty takes you back to those fateful days leading up to the hurricane’s landfall, painting a vivid picture of the tense anticipation and the dramatic aftermath that followed. His firsthand account provides a deeply...

Aug 28, 202410 minSeason 1Ep. 24

Miami Beach and the 1972 Conventions

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane to a different time when America was embroiled in war, protests, nasty politics and it all came down to Miami Beach in a two-month span. Richard Nixon, George McGovern, Hippies, weed, protests, and my Mom and Dad, all in this episode of Tales from South Florida. Support the show Click the Leave A Message link above to text Bill Monty...FREE! Share your Memories here: Send a voice message to TalesFromSouthFlorida Visit our w...

Aug 21, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Henry Flagler and the Train That Built Florida

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Henry Flagler could be called Mr. Florida, as without his vision, his drive and his money, how and when Florida developed into an agricultural staple and tourist destination would have been a very different story. His story is Florida's history. Especially South Florida's. Take a TALK Down Memory Lane with host Bill Monty as he explores this incredible Tale From South Florida. Support the show Click the Leave A Message link above to text Bill Monty...F...

Aug 14, 202411 minSeason 1Ep. 22

William Cooley and The New River Massacre

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. From Key West to Tampa, William Cooley was one of the first and most influential settlers to Florida. When he finally settled in the New River Settlement in what would become Fort Lauderdale he made his fame and fortune in farming, wrecking and politics. But one judicial decision would lead to death and terror for his friends and family. Take a TALK down Memory Lane as I recall The New River Massacre. Another of the Tales From South Florida. Support th...

Jun 26, 202411 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Coral Gables & George Merrick

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Let's Take a TALK Down Memory Lane. In the second episode of "The Men Who Built South Florida" we delve into the life and legacy of George Edgar Merrick, a man whose vision shaped the very landscape of Coral Gables, leaving an indelible mark on history. Despite his pivotal role in designing iconic institutions, roads, cities, and hotels, his name remains obscured to many living in the shadows of his accomplishments. Join us as we unravel the complex na...

Jun 05, 202413 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Miami Beach Founder: Carl Fisher

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Step into the riveting saga of Carl Fisher, a visionary from Indiana whose passion for bicycles blossomed into an unparalleled legacy. From pioneering the Indianapolis Speedway to constructing the nation's inaugural East-West highway and later the groundbreaking Dixie Highway, Carl's relentless drive reshaped the American landscape. But his most daring venture awaited in Miami Beach, where he sought to craft a utopian getaway. Join host Bill Monty as h...

May 21, 20249 minSeason 1Ep. 19

The Malls of South Florida

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Anyone remember Burdines? Richards? Jordan Marsh? The Orange Bowl? Chess King? Spec's Music and Tapes? Today, I discuss the places where we went to meet friends, get jobs, and simply hangout. The Dadeland Mall, The 163rd Street Shopping Center, The Hollywood Fashion Center and The Hollywood Mall. They defined our teen years and for a brief while, our culture. We thought those days would last forever...until one dark day in July 1981. And after that we ...

May 08, 202416 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Why Did Key West Secede from the United States?

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. You can use many words when describing the Florida Keys but conventional isn't one of them. In honor of the Keys Independence Day coming up on April 23, on this episode i talk about one of my favorite Tales from South Florida: the time when Key West just said, "To heck with it. We're out of here!", becoming the first government of any kind to break from the United States since the Civil War. And then suing the U.S. for $1,000,000,000 in aid. And they d...

Apr 23, 202412 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Growing Up in South Florida

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Do you remember when: Hotel row was the place to take visitors so they could see The Castaways, the original Diplomat, the Eden Roc and more? Saturdays were for spending the day riding your bicycle with friends all day? Eating at Royal Castle? Or the lunch counter at Woolworth's? Shopping at Jackson Byrons? The U-Pick-'Em fields in Homestead? Family trips to the Everglades? Andytown? I do. These are my memories and I'm asking you to share yours too. Th...

Apr 10, 202415 minSeason 1Ep. 16

TV Shows: Flipper and Miami Vice

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. When Joseph Young named his local parcel of land Hollywood, he was hoping to mirror in South Florida the burgeoning film industry of its Californian namesake. While the aspiration seemed lofty, South Florida did indeed become a cinematic hotspot, especially during the mid to late 20th century. This week, we delve into two iconic television shows that not only showcased the unique allure of South Florida but also left an indelible mark on American cultu...

Mar 27, 202423 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Hemingway's Restaurant in Hollywood

Text me your favorite South Florida memory. Step into the glamorous world of Hemingway's, nestled in a historic building in downtown Hollywood, Florida. A haven for the famous and infamous alike, Hemingway's was more than just a restaurant; it was a legendary institution where culinary excellence met celebrity intrigue. Diners were treated not only to unmatched food and service but also to the thrill of possibly rubbing elbows with Hollywood stars and icons. And let's not forget the unforgettabl...

Mar 20, 202411 minSeason 1Ep. 14
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