BringJoy

Joy Nulisch
  • 5.0 (25)
  • BASEBALL
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

This podcast is all about bringing joy through storytelling and conversation, with two shows. The Joy of Baseball Show is all about baseball from the sandlots to the big leagues and everything in between, my guest and I will share  our joy for the game with you. The Conchs Show is all about celebrating the incredible people of Key West and their stories from every corner of our Conch Community.  So whether you’re a fan of baseball or good storytelling you’ll be entertained and each episode will bring a little joy to your day

  1. Conch Pride with Ben Harrison

    2D AGO

    Conch Pride with Ben Harrison

    What happens when a musician sails into Key West, finds a stage within 48 hours, and spends the next four decades turning island life into melody and memory? We sit down with Ben Harrison—singer, author, playwright, and local historian—to uncover how music and baseball braided together to shape Key West culture, pride, and identity. Ben takes us back to late-afternoon sets at the Pier House and long runs at the Bull on Duval Street, then forward to intimate nights in the Key West Theater’s backstage listening room. Along the way, he shares why Elvis cracked his world open, how a Shel Silverstein cover sneaks into his set, and what separates a sturdy song from a good book chapter. The stories are pure Conch: roaming roosters, sirens by Flagler, and a community that always seems to show up when it counts. The heart of our talk digs into Ben’s new book on the history of Key West baseball. He traces the game’s roots to the 1800s, carried by soldiers and nurtured by a deep connection with Cuba. We explore the 1950s golden era of Key West High School championships, the brief polio pause that sidelined a season, and the small-ball savvy borrowed from Havana’s winter leagues. We honor the Negro Leagues and the Key West Coconuts, noting how segregation hid greatness in the archives while talent kept winning on the field. Hustle, more than anything, emerges as the island’s competitive edge. Community runs through it all. Ben serves on the Bahama Village Music Program board, a free, all-instruments effort that pairs kids with teachers, turns seniors into mentors, and sends standouts to Berklee each summer. It’s proof that access fuels skill, and skill builds the confidence that keeps culture alive. We close on what success really means: choosing happiness, doing the work you love, and raising a family proud to call themselves Conchs. If this story hit home, tap follow, share it with a friend who loves baseball or live music, and leave us a quick review so more people can find the show. Your support helps keep these Key West stories alive. Talk to Joy Support the show

    42 min
  2. Conch Pride with Coach Ralphie Henriquez

    FEB 16

    Conch Pride with Coach Ralphie Henriquez

    Ever wonder how a small island builds a baseball program that feels bigger than life? We sit down with Coach Ralph to chart a 2026 campaign loaded with horsepower on the mound, smarter at-bats, and a schedule designed to harden the team for the regional gauntlet. From bringing the Pace rivalry back to Key West to targeting showcase venues like Mark Light, every choice raises the ceiling and sharpens the edge. We take you behind the scenes at Rex Weech Field, where a massive new batting facility and a reimagined fan flow turn construction into momentum. Parking stays simple, concessions level up, and yes, the luxury trailers are nicer than you think. The goal is an elite public-school complex that signals to players, parents, and scouts that Key West invests in development, comfort, and game-day atmosphere. When the stands fill with red and the K Crew goes to work, every inning feels like October. Coach opens up about legacy and lineage: throwing BP with “17,” adding infield whisperer Tag Chriswell, and empowering JV leader Ramon Bertucci. He shares lessons from a 2005 state title, 12 years in pro ball, and the pride of wearing a Dodgers uniform—practical wisdom he now hands to Conchs climbing college rosters and chasing pro dreams. Toughness is the throughline. When the road offers nothing but a Sonic and doubt knocks, plan A stays the plan: keep kicking down doors until opportunity swings open. We also dig into the state of baseball—automated balls and strikes, analytics-heavy hitting, defense in the age of launch angle, and how NIL is reshaping choices for high school and college players. Ralph argues for balance: elevate technology without erasing the art of catching and the human rhythm that makes the game breathe. Along the way, you’ll hear shoutouts to Conchs on the global stage, the spark of two-out rallies, and why small ball still steals hearts and wins games. Join us for a grounded, spirited look at how Key West turns community into competitive edge and tradition into tomorrow’s wins. If this conversation fired you up, subscribe, share with a fellow fan, and leave a quick review so more baseball lovers can find the show. Talk to Joy Support the show

    28 min
  3. Conch Pride with Kawana Staffney-Ashe

    FEB 16

    Conch Pride with Kawana Staffney-Ashe

    The rhythm of Key West lives in more than palm-lined streets and sunset applause—it lives in the hands of kids learning steel pan, the breath behind a sax, and the beat of a second line that heals a community. We sit down with Executive Director Kawana from the Bahama Village Music Program to explore how free music education keeps Bahamian and Cuban roots alive while opening new doors with a DJ class that pulls teens into the fold. From first lessons to festival stages, this is a story about culture as a living classroom and mentorship as the backbone of local pride. You’ll meet Matthew, a young saxophonist whose national anthem solos and soulful tributes led to Berklee acceptance and scholarship support. His journey is powered by the Crooks Second Line, a February tradition that raises funds to send students to Berklee’s Aspire program while honoring loved ones with a Key West–style parade. Names are spoken, horns sing, Junkanoos march, and the island remembers together—grief and joy intertwined in the most Conch way possible. We also dig into the everyday work: teaching across genres so kids build real range, shouting out the teachers and board members who keep the program humming, and celebrating the Pep Squad’s high-octane school spirit. Beyond the music, we talk about the village that still looks out for its youth, the loss of old hangouts that once kept teens busy, and the fight to preserve what matters—Goombe homecomings, the Conch accent, and the sense that neighbors show up without being asked. Kawana’s definition of Conch pride lands it: unconditional love, loud and clear. And joy? It’s the spark in a kid’s eyes when the music finally clicks. If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more local stories, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Want to help send a Key West kid to Berklee? Donate and spread the word—your support keeps the rhythm going. Talk to Joy Support the show

    42 min
  4. Conch Pride with Legend Bobby Menendez

    12/19/2025

    Conch Pride with Legend Bobby Menendez

    This is a Conch Legend Episode. In this conversation, Joy Nulisch interviews Bobby Menendez, a revered figure in Key West known as Mr. Conch Pride. They discuss the meaning of Conch Pride, the legacy of the Menendez-Miler Scholarship, and Bobby's journey from a multi-sport athlete to a dedicated coach and educator. Bobby shares heartfelt memories of growing up in Key West, the influence of key figures in his life, and the importance of community connections. The conversation highlights the values of preparation, respect, integrity, dependability, and education that define Conch Pride, as well as the lasting impact of sports and mentorship in shaping lives. #conchpride #KeyWest #highschoolsports #football #seminoles #community #legacy #coaching  Talk to Joy Support the show

    44 min
  5. Conch Pride with Mike Stack

    12/12/2025

    Conch Pride with Mike Stack

    We sit with Key West’s own Mike Stack to trace how a hometown anthem grew into free community concerts, big stages, and a culture of giving back. The talk ranges from creative risk and collaboration to family support, Conch Pride, and measuring success on your own terms. • New Year’s Eve Eve show details and sponsors • Free concerts as community gatherings • Fundraising for local needs and teams • The making of I’m From Key West • Radio lift and visitor connection • Partnership with D Lew and shared vision • Genre-bending strategy to open doors • Big stages won by preparation and delivery • School visits and the energy of young fans • Defining success through results and joy • Family support from Papa Stack and Romana • Everyday Key West life and food reviews • Conch pride as people-first commitment photos, video and music contributed by @iammikestack If you enjoyed this episode, drop a review, share, and subscribe because there’s a lot of good stuff on tap Talk to Joy Support the show

    39 min
  6. Conch Pride with Billy Wardlow, Key West to the World Series

    12/05/2025

    Conch Pride with Billy Wardlow, Key West to the World Series

    In this engaging conversation, Billy Wardlow shares his extensive journey in baseball, from his early days in Key West to his current role with the Toronto Blue Jays. He reflects on the excitement of the World Series, the importance of building relationships within the sport, and the challenges of equipment management. Wardlow also offers valuable advice for young athletes and emphasizes the significance of community and passion in sports. Talk to Joy Support the show

    35 min
  7. Conch Pride with Tommy Butler

    11/21/2025

    Conch Pride with Tommy Butler

    We sit down with Coach Tommy Butler to map the identity of Key West High School basketball—defense first, relentless pace, and a standard built on connection. Discussing feeder programs to family legacy on Bill Butler Court, the path back to district glory runs through toughness, shooting reps, and the community that shows up. • team identity of pressure defense, rebounding, and transition • renewed shooting focus and no-missed-layups standard • home schedule highlights and revived rivalries • seniors to watch and evolving roles • coaching staff strengths and essential volunteers • youth pipeline via Southernmost Ballers, PAL, Storm Surge, Salt Life, and HOB • lessons from the 2012 run and college experience • Butler family legacy and what Conch Pride means • family support, traditions, and building lifelong connections If you enjoyed this episode, drop a review, share, and subscribe because there's a lot of good stuff on tap. You can also follow Bring Joy on YouTube and Instagram, or check my website at joynulisch.com Talk to Joy Support the show

    41 min
  8. Conch Pride with Jennifer Averette

    11/20/2025

    Conch Pride with Jennifer Averette

    We celebrate Special Olympics champion and Hall of Famer Jennifer Averett, from Seattle gold to Key West homecomings, and explore how volunteers, coaches, and art fuel her life of Conch Pride. Stories span three decades of competition, deep family roots, and a call to support  Monroe County athletes. • Thirty-plus years competing across stand-up paddle, swimming, soccer, cycling • Seattle national games gold and the airport homecoming • Hall of Fame induction and what it represents • Coaches and volunteers who shape success • Health Messenger role and athlete wellness • State games results and upcoming selections for 2026 • Fundraiser at Fausto’s for Team Florida travel • Monroe County athlete numbers and unified partners • Professional art at Guild Hall Gallery on Duval • Family lineage tied to Key West history and leaders • Personal definition of Conch Pride and community If you enjoyed this episode, drop a review, share, and subscribe because there's a lot of good stuff on tech. You can also follow Bring Joy on YouTube and Instagram, or check my website at joynulisch.com. Now go bring joy to the people in your world. Talk to Joy Support the show

    17 min
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5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

This podcast is all about bringing joy through storytelling and conversation, with two shows. The Joy of Baseball Show is all about baseball from the sandlots to the big leagues and everything in between, my guest and I will share  our joy for the game with you. The Conchs Show is all about celebrating the incredible people of Key West and their stories from every corner of our Conch Community.  So whether you’re a fan of baseball or good storytelling you’ll be entertained and each episode will bring a little joy to your day

Information

  • Creator
    Joy Nulisch
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    79
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BringJoy
  • Show Website
    BringJoy