Off Track Saratoga Podcast

Noel McLaren & Zac Denham

Off Track Saratoga Podcast is THE DESTINATION for local hot topics, diving into the people, places, and stories shaping Saratoga and the Capital Region. Hosted by Emmy Award- winning journalist Noel McLaren and local business owner Zac Denham, the show explores local news, hot topics, businesses and community conversations- sometimes on track, sometimes off, but always worth the listen. 

  1. 5d ago

    Off Track Gets Shucked: An Exclusive First Look Inside The Pearl Oyster Bar with Ronnie Solevo

    Scallions may be gone, but something exciting is taking its place. In the Season 1 Finale of the pod, Noel and Zac go Off Track with local restaurateur Ronnie Solevo for an exclusive first look inside The Pearl, the highly anticipated seafood restaurant and raw bar opening at the former Scallions location on Lake Avenue. Ronnie shares the inspiration behind the concept, how fresh oysters and seafood make their way from the coast to Saratoga in as little as 12–18 hours, and why this project feels like the most authentic expression of who he is. We talk restaurant design, preserving the spirit of Scallions, creating a space that feels both coastal and Saratoga, and some of the surprises guests can expect when The Pearl opens later this year. Follow @thepearlsaratoga for updates and get ready to discover Saratoga's newest gem. Support the show

    40 min

  2. May 26

    Quiet Luxury & Loud Opinions with Local Fashion Editor Tiina Loite

    Noel and Zac go Off Track with Saratoga Living fashion editor Tiina Loite for a funny, honest, and relatable conversation about fashion, confidence, and personal style. From The Devil Wears Prada 2 and quiet luxury to Saratoga track fashion, denim struggles, athleisure, vintage shopping, and finding your style through different stages of life — nothing is off limits. Plus: strong opinions on Crocs, socks with sandals, white after Labor Day, department stores, and why “getting dressed” still matters. Follow, rate, and subscribe for new episodes every week! Support the show

    36 min

  3. May 19

    Off Track First Look: The New Adelphi Gardens & Saratoga Summer Dreams

    The weather has been all over the place, but Saratoga summer is finally around the corner — and we’re kicking things off with a FIRST LOOK at the newly reimagined Adelphi Gardens courtyard at the The Adelphi Hotel. 🌿🥂 In this episode, Noel and Zac settle in fireside to talk about:  The return of one of Saratoga’s most nostalgic hidden gems  The big reveal during Belmont week and the return of live music  What they’re most looking forward to this summer in Saratoga  Lake George days, porch season, and elite Saratoga people-watching spots 👀  Motherhood, grief, family traditions, and the complicated emotions surrounding Mother’s Day Plus: Zac shares the touching story behind a new tattoo honoring his late mother, and the duo announce a fun cocktail “treasure hunt” around downtown Saratoga. It’s funny, heartfelt, nostalgic, and the perfect listen to get you ready for summer in Saratoga Springs. Support the show

    30 min

  4. May 12

    Panza’s New Era at 88: Chef Elliot Vogel & the Future of a Saratoga Icon

    This week on Off-Track Saratoga, Noel & Zac sit down with Michael Panza of Panza's Restaurant to celebrate 88 years of one of Saratoga’s most iconic family restaurants. Michael shares stories from generations in the business—from opening the doors at age five to serving legends like Frank Sinatra, Liberace, Walter Cronkite (just to name a few)—and what it takes to keep a legacy restaurant thriving for nearly a century. We also talk Saratoga’s evolving dining scene, hospitality, and the power of a family-run businesses in a rapidly changing town. Plus, new head chef Elliot Vogel joins the conversation. He's ushering in a new era at Panza’s with a fresh spring menu featuring local ingredients, seasonal dishes, and a modern take on classic favorites. We also hear from guests experiencing the new menu and lively supper club atmosphere firsthand. A celebration of history, food, music, and the future of a Saratoga staple—don’t miss Panza’s 88th anniversary on May 15th. Support the show

    38 min

  5. May 5

    A Better Way to Do Youth Sports | Coach Joe Uccellini on Pressure, Burnout & Success

    Are we approaching youth sports the right way? This week, Noel and Zac head to Troy, NY to sit down with Team USA Coach Joe Uccellini—owner of Curby Training Center and a respected leader in youth athlete development.  From coaching beginners to working with state champions and international-level athletes, Joe shares his perspective on building confidence, handling pressure, and creating an environment where kids can truly thrive.  In this episode, we discuss:  • Why fun and freedom are critical for long-term success  • The pressure parents (often unintentionally) put on their kids  • How to help young athletes handle losses and setbacks  • Why early success doesn’t always predict future success  • The growth of girls wrestling and its impact on youth sports Plus, Zac and Noel learn a wrestling move, Joe shares his path to becoming a coach, and we dive into what keeps kids coming back to sports year after year. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or just navigating youth sports, this episode offers a smarter, healthier way to think about it. New episodes weekly. Sometimes we’re on track, sometimes we go a little off—but it’s always worth the listen. Support the show

    47 min

  6. Apr 28

    Restaurant at Saratoga Airport Cleared for Landing: An Off Track First Look

    Ready for takeoff? ✈️ In this episode of Off-Track Saratoga Podcast, we’re bringing you inside one of the Capital Region’s most unique new destinations—Sunset at Saratoga, the brand-new restaurant located inside the Saratoga County Airport. Hosts Noel McLaren and Zac Denham sit down with owner Mike Speranza, and local creator Pat Fleming (aka the “local diner guy”) to talk about how they're creating a family-friendly dining experience at the airport that's open to everyone. From scratch-made food and locally sourced ingredients to fresh-brewed Big Black Coffee and unbeatable runway views, this spot is redefining what it means to “go out to eat” in Saratoga.  This episode dives into:  The story behind bringing Sunset at Saratoga to life  Why this restaurant is filling a major gap in the Milton/Saratoga community  The power of supporting local—from coffee to cuisine  And how this space blends nostalgia, family, and a one-of-a-kind aviation experience Whether you’re planning a laid-back family outing, a date night with a view, or just want to watch planes take off with a cocktail in hand—this is one destination you don’t want to miss. Support the show

    19 min

  7. Apr 18

    Reclaiming Gaffney's: An Off Track First Look

    Gaffney’s is back—and you’re getting the first look inside! In this special bonus episode, Noel & Zac sit down at the newly renovated Gaffney’s with marketing director Steph Curtis. They talk about what's staying, what’s changing, and what Saratoga can expect from this iconic spot’s next chapter. From nostalgic nods and major renovations to new menus, multiple bar spaces, live entertainment, and a renewed focus on atmosphere and safety—this is a behind-the-scenes look at how a local landmark is being reimagined for a new era. Plus, we get into the vision behind the revival, the team bringing it to life, and the highly anticipated opening date (hint: think hats and Derby Day). Whether you have years of memories at Gaffney’s or you’ve never stepped inside, this episode is your inside access before the doors officially open. Support the show

    20 min

  8. Apr 14

    It's all in the Sauce: A Chat with local foodie Saucy Suraci

    This week on Off Track Saratoga, Noel and Zac sit down with local food and lifestyle influencer Kristen Suraci—better known as Saucy. What started as casually sharing where she eats has grown into a platform that spotlights small businesses across the 518. Kristen opens up about her unexpected rise, the realities of being a full-time influencer, and why she’s committed to keeping her content positive and authentic. They also dive into the pressures of social media, supporting local in a meaningful way, and—of course—Saucy’s go-to spots across the region. It’s honest, funny, a little off track (hello, bidet debate), and full of must-try recommendations. Stay saucy. Support the show

    51 min
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Trailer

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About

Off Track Saratoga Podcast is THE DESTINATION for local hot topics, diving into the people, places, and stories shaping Saratoga and the Capital Region. Hosted by Emmy Award- winning journalist Noel McLaren and local business owner Zac Denham, the show explores local news, hot topics, businesses and community conversations- sometimes on track, sometimes off, but always worth the listen. 

Information

  • Creator
    Noel McLaren & Zac Denham
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Off Track Saratoga Podcast
  • Show Website
    Off Track Saratoga Podcast

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