Pocono Mountains Podcast

Season 6, Episode 26 - Discover the sweet side of the Pocono Mountains as Jim Hamill visits Ron Shemanski of Shemanski Maple Syrup in Wayne County to explore the art and science of making pure maple syrup. From Revolutionary-era family connections to modern maple production, this episode offers a fascinating look at a local tradition that continues to thrive today. The Poconos is a year-round dest...

Discover the stories behind the waterfalls that have shaped the Pocono Mountains, from iconic destinations to lesser-known treasures as Deanna Fontanez is Chasing Waterfalls. This episode explores Raymondskill Falls , Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall, and highlights the beauty, history, and outdoor experiences that make the region a paradise for waterfall seekers. The Poconos is a year-round desti...

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, step back in time with the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company and join Bri & Dee for a Ghosts & Graveyards Tour - just in time for spooky season. Autumn has arrived in the Poconos! Brianna Strunk shares some tips and tricks for planning the ultimate fall getaway this month, with help from the online Fall Foliage Forecast on PoconoMountains.com .Step inside...

Season 6, Episode 24 - Millions of visitors come to the Pocono Mountains each year for outdoor adventure, family fun, and memorable getaways. But what happens after they check out of a hotel, dine at a local restaurant, or go to a show or event? Jim Hamill sits down with Monroe County Treasurer Ira Jolley to explore how tourism dollars flow through the local economy and the impact they have on com...

Season 6, Episode 23 - Step inside Milford's historic Columns Museum for a fascinating conversation with longtime director Lori, whose passion for preserving local history has helped bring some of Pike County's most remarkable stories to life. This episode explores the nationally significant Lincoln Flag, hidden artifacts, local legends, and the people who shaped the region's past. Joi...

Season 6, Episode 22 - What happens when a weekend getaway helps rescue animals in need? In this episode of the Pocono Mountains Podcast, we visit Sugar Mutts Rescue and Sky Meadow Farm Sanctuary in Greentown, where founders Amy and Patty share how their passion for animal welfare grew from a Brooklyn dog rescue into a thriving 35-acre sanctuary. Discover inspiring rescue stories, unique farm stay...

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, learn how tourism has helped to shape our region's economy, identity, landscape, and way of life. Jim Hamill explores the Poconos history as more than a destination, featuring the story of Cindy Knecht whose family moved to the Poconos after vacationing here. Get an exclusive first look at the new Swiftwater Conference & Events Center and see how th...

Season 6, Episode 21 - Bill Colavito, General Manager of Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains , discusses his remarkable journey from family-owned businesses and a career with Marriott International to becoming one of the region's most respected hospitality leaders. Bill reflects on his firsthand connection to September 11, 2001, sharing how that experience reshaped his outlook on leadership, gra...

Season 6, Episode 20 - For years, this podcast has explored the people, businesses, and stories shaping one of America's most iconic four-season destinations. In this episode of our special series, The Pocono Mountains: More Than a Destination , Cindy Knecht shares her journey from family vacationer to lifelong resident, business owner, and community leader. Discover how tourism, local entrepr...

Season 6, Episode 19 - PTN's Deanna Fontanez sits down with longtime racer and Weatherly native Ray to explore the history, family traditions, and community spirit behind the iconic Weatherly Hillclimb . From childhood memories on the mountain to becoming one of the event's most recognizable competitors, Ray shares how the hillclimb has shaped his life and inspired the next generation of racers. T...

Season 6, Episode 18 (Season 3, Episode 15) - We have no shortage of camps throughout the Pocono Mountains. There are a few dozen in Wayne County alone and in Pike County, quite a few draw kids from all over the map year after year.. and in ⁠Camp Oneka’s⁠ case that’s been a tradition 115 years strong this year. 1908 is when the camp on the shores of Fairview Lake near Lake Wallenpaupack got its st...

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, join us for a new series as we go Chasing Waterfalls. First stop, George W. Childs Park in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area! Explore Lake Wallenpaupack by paddle board with Bri & Dee, an adventure open to everyone thanks to seasonal rentals from Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours. Brianna Strunk shows us around the Skytop Butterfly House, where...

Season 6, Episode 17 - Explore Skytop Lodge's seasonal Butterfly House with Naturalist Theresa as she shares the fascinating life cycle of butterflies, their role as pollinators, and how guests can experience this unique attraction. Plus, learn about Skytop's guided hikes, conservation efforts, and simple ways to create a pollinator-friendly habitat at home. The Poconos is a year-round des...

Season 6, Episode 16 (Flashback to Season 5, Episode 16) - A flashback to a favorite in our series ⁠Exploring State Parks in the Poconos⁠ . Jim explored ⁠Promised Land State Park⁠ which is in Pike County - not far from Interstate 84. We learned some great insights from Park Manager Sara Jade Woodsmith about the park's beach, campgrounds, history and more. We also paddled for a bit around the l...

Season 6, Episode 15 - Discover why Whitewater Rafting Adventures offers everything from whitewater rafting and ziplining to biking and paintball in one location. In this episode, owner Steve shares the company's story, the joy of introducing guests to new adventures, and what makes the experience memorable for families, groups, and thrill-seekers alike. The Poconos is a year-round destination...

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, mark a major milestone for the United States with a patriotic show at Pocono Raceway honoring veterans and active duty service members as well as highlighting America250PA's role in the lead-up to 2026 and the U.S. Semiquincentennial! Jim Hamill celebrates and shares America's Birthday with this inside scoop. Whether staying overnight or visiting fo...

Season 6, Episode 14 - We’re right in the heart of summer, with the Fourth of July weekend bringing together everything we love about this time of year—camping, swimming, fishing, and time on the water, all mixed with patriotic parades and fireworks across the Pocono Mountains. As we get ready for a brand-new episode of  Pocono Mountains Magazine  airing Sunday, July 5th, we’re heading to Keen Lak...

Season 6, Episode 13 - A century ago, the landscape around part of the Poconos looked much different. What once was a flowing river - surrounded by small communities and early industry was transformed into a massive man-made lake we know today as Wallenpaupack . While we look to celebrate 250 year of these United States - we're also celebrating the centennial of Lake Wally - and the Wallenpaup...

Season 6, Episode 12 - As we reflect on 250 years of the American experiment and other significant milestones across the Poconos, this episode highlights the newly expanded home of the Monroe County Historical Association in Stroudsburg, where history comes to life in a bigger, more dynamic way. Brianna takes listeners inside the recently unveiled Heritage Center at the historic Stroud Mansion on...

This month on  Pocono Mountains Magazine :  summer  arrives with a celebration of  Lake Wallenpaupack's 100th ! Jim Hamill shares Tiki Boat Cruises stocked with food and drink departing from  Silver Birches Resort  and captained by  Pocono Action Sports , plus the history of the lake in a new book.  See a side of zoo life most visitors never get to experience as Deanna Fontanez visits  Claws &...

Season 6, Episode 11 - Step into Claws 'N' Paws in Lake Ariel—where you’re just as likely to hear wolves howling in the distance as you are to meet a giraffe reaching out for a carrot. In this episode, Deanna takes you behind the scenes with the team who makes it all possible, ahead of an upcoming feature in  Pocono Mountains Magazine . From caring for more than 100 species to building meaningful...

Season 6, Episode 10 - Tourism touches every corner of our region. It's more than just a weekend getaway here in the Pocono, it's our heartbeat, our economy, and our way of sharing what makes this place so special. In this episode, we're joined by someone who knows Pennsylvania tourism inside and out— Deputy Secretary of Tourism, Anne Ryan . From small-town roots to world-class city ex...

Season 6, Episode 9 (Flashback to Season 2, Episode 9) - Whether you're swimming, kayaking, canoeing, boating or enjoying other forms of water recreation in the Poconos this summer, suit up to protect yourself and loved ones from drowning. Wear that life jacket and follow these other water safety tips from National Park Service rangers, PA Fish & Boat officials and first responders in the...

Season 6, Episode 8 (Flashback to Season 3, Episode 37) - A tradition of excellence is the Woodloch way, started in the mid 20th century by the first generation of the Kiesendahl family to have the resort on Lake Teedyuskung. Today, ⁠Woodloch⁠ has expanded to include ⁠The Springs - Golf Resort at Woodloch with an 18-hole golf course and the ⁠Lodge at Woodloch⁠ , a destination spa resort. John Kies...

This month on Pocono Mountains Magazine, Brianna Strunk previews Pride Month with the return of Pocono Pride Festival in downtown Stroudsburg and visits Camp Out Poconos, an LGBTQ+ campground fostering friendship and family. Bri & Dee take aim at Sunset Hill Shooting Range, an exhilarating adventure for first-time shooters as well as experts. The action continues as Deanna Fontanez steps insid...