ADK Talks

In this episode, we speak with Spencer Coplan , the head chef at the historic Deer’s Head Inn in Elizabethtown. Spencer shares the joys of leading a kitchen that showcases local, regional, and sustainably produced foods.  The Deer’s Head Inn is ideally located in the Adirondacks' "breadbasket" within the Champlain Valley. Local farms and orchards provide a diverse range of products,...

Step back in time to an era of lavish retreats and untamed wilderness. In this episode, we uncover the rich history of the iconic Adirondack great camp Sagamore—once the private getaway of the Vanderbilt family. Explore the intriguing blend of luxury and nature, shaping a unique legacy of rustic elegance.  From grand lodges to hidden trails, we explore Sagamore's stories, architecture, and it...

When watching a movie or TV show, have you ever felt the sensation the place on the screen looks very familiar? You might be surprised to learn about the movies and TV series filmed in the Adirondacks. In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Greater Adirondack Film Commissioner Eric Granger. He shares the behind-the-scenes stories of his work, attracting filmmakers to the Adirondac...

In this episode of ADK Talks, we visit High Falls Gorge in Wilmington, New York, at the base of White Face Mountain, one of the Adirondacks' iconic High Peaks.  Just a stone's throw from Lake Placid, High Falls Gorge offers a unique experience where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Adirondacks, come up close to spectacular waterfalls, and get a fascinating geology les...

In this episode of ADK Talks, we speak with Yvonne West, founder and owner of On The Equator Sauna Rentals in the Lake George region of the Adirondacks. On the Equator has a mobile sauna that they bring to clients so they can experience the benefits of sauna at home. Yvonne shares her story of how she came up with the idea for a mobile sauna service and brought her vision to light, including build...

In this episode of ADK Talks, June Waters, Director of Exhibitions at Lake George Arts Project’s Courthouse Gallery, the only year-round cultural institution in Lake George Village, helps us explore the artistic side of Lake George. We learn about the history of this venue for modernist and contemporary art, how artists come to exhibit at the gallery and upcoming events in 2025. We also learn more...

In this episode of ADK Talks, we have a fascinating conversation with Ian Tomasch from Gore Mountain , New York’s largest ski area. Located in the heart of the Adirondacks in North Creek, NY, Gore Mountain boasts a rich history of catering to skiers, snowboarders, and winter sports enthusiasts in the southern Adirondacks. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Gore’s origins as the North Creek Ski Bo...

In this episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the Adirondack’s unique culinary culture with a sizzling conversation with Chef and Adirondack restaurateur Billy Trudsoe, proprietor of Lizzie Keays Kitchen and Cocktails in Warrensburgh and Basil & Wick's in North Creek. We hear about Billy’s journey from a drive-in king to head chef at top restaurants in Lake George and Florida, which led him...

In this special Halloween episode of ADK Talks, we delve into some of the Adirondacks' top haunted spots—places where people report having seen ghosts or experienced the paranormal. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Hotel Saranac , one of USA TODAY’S Top 10 Best Haunted Hotels in America Saratoga Homestead Rhinelander Estate Adirondac - Tahawus Haunted Lake George MacDonough Hall at SUNY Pl...

In this ADK Talks episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Jeff Berry and Elena Lumby, two dedicated members of Search and Rescue in the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK).  SARNAK is an all-volunteer organization based in Saranac Lake, primarily serving the Upstate New York region. It works closely with NYS DEC’s Forest Rangers, who, in addition to protecting and managing forests, parks and wil...

In this ADK Talks episode, we recommend top autumn activities in the Adirondacks. From foliage to festivals, we share our favorite things to do in the fall in the ADK. While the list of great things to do in the Adirondacks is almost endless, our listeners have been asking us to share our favorites. Who are we to say no? Our Top 10 list includes: Gore Mountain Harvest Fest Mt. Van Hoevenberg’s Thr...

In this episode of ADK Talks, we connect with Denise Silfee, the Education and Communications Director at the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation in Saranac Lake, New York.  The Common Loon, specifically Adirondack loons, is a favorite topic among the adktaste.com community. This super informative, educational and engaging conversation with Denise could have probably filled three podcast episo...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we have an intriguing conversation with Noel Jennings, a third-generation proprietor of one of the central Adirondack’s most beloved ice creameries, Custard’s Last Stand in Long Lake. This iconic ice cream stand has served visitors and the community since 1958 (over 65 years). We talk to Noel about what it takes to keep a family business afloat for over six decades;...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we are privileged to host a fascinating conversation with Paul Bartholomew, a distinguished Sasquatch expert renowned for his meticulous research and study of Bigfoot in New York and the New England states. He has been on a quest to unravel the mystery: Does a hulking 7-foot-tall humanlike creature, unrecognized by science, wander the lush forests of the Adirondacks?...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we speak with Nick Friedman, Executive Director of Accessible Adirondack Tourism, who shares his insights and experience on making the Adirondacks more accessible to everyone. And we learn about the first annual Adirondack Nature Festival for People with Disabilities . Listen now, and subscribe to ADK Talks for more intel on the best places to visit, stay, eat, shop...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we talk with Mary Alice O’Connor, the Executive Director of the Indian Lake Theater, who shares what it takes for a not-for-profit movie theater to survive and thrive in a town with a year-round population of 1,400 people. Mary Alice paints a vivid picture of the theater's history, which has been a part of the town’s life since 1937. She underscores the pivotal...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we visit a unique destination on the Queen of American Lakes: Silver Bay YMCA. Lindsey Butler, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing, is our guest as we take a deep dive into this unique place to visit and stay along one mile of gorgeous Lake George shoreline. Lindsey provides all you need to know about why Silver Bay has been a favorite get-away for families and...

In this episode of ADK Talks , we delve into the unique world of Doug Smith, the digital creator of ADK Legends on Instagram. He weaves captivating stories about the history and people of the Adirondacks through his original digital art, a blend of creativity and cutting-edge technology that is sure to pique your interest. Doug shares what inspires him and his deep-rooted passion for the people an...

In our inaugural episode of ADK Talks , we sit down with Paul Nasrani, founder and CEO of Adirondack Creamery , a premium ice cream brand made in the Adirondacks known for its commitment to fresh, local, and high-quality ingredients. Paul shares his remarkable journey from being a corporate CFO in New York City to following his passion for ice cream and establishing a company prioritizing quality...

ADK Talks brings you the stories behind the people, places, and things to do in the Adirondack Park of New York State. With 6 million acres, the Adirondacks are the ultimate playground. We take you beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of one of America's most breathtaking regions. Just like we do on our website, adktaste.com, our podcast uncovers the hidden gems of the Adirondacks, offeri...