ADK Talks

ADK Taste

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, offering hand-picked recommendations for the best places to stay, eat, shop and do in the Adirondack Park.But this isn't just about places. It's about the people who make the Adirondacks so special and unique. In each episode, we talk to people from all walks of life—restauranteurs, farmers, innkeepers, historians, artists, local leaders, writers, hikers, and more. Hear real stories about what they do, their passions, and how they found their way here.And they'll share their insider tips on the best things to see and do in the Adirondacks – insights you won't find anywhere else.So subscribe now to ADK Talks to get real stories from real people, sharing the real Adirondacks.You can also visit us online at adktaste.com.

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    The Adirondacks as a Classroom: Inside the Adirondack Semester at St. Lawrence University

    In this episode of ADK Talks, we talk with Jacob McCoola and Nicole Panek about St. Lawrence University’s Adirondack Semester, an immersive fall program where students live off-grid in a yurt village on Massawepie Lake. They share what daily life looks like without phones or laptops, how students learn through outdoor leadership and place-based study, and why the experience leaves such a lasting impact. From shared meals and handwritten coursework to loons, lake water, and deep community, this is a fascinating look at a one-of-a-kind semester in the Adirondacks. Jacob and Nicole also explain how students balance rigorous academics with the practical realities of living in the woods, from cooking and hauling water to learning how to communicate, solve problems, and live closely with others. They talk about the kinds of students the program attracts, the personal growth that often happens over the course of the semester, and why the Adirondacks offer such a rich setting for this kind of education. What you’ll hear in this episode Living in a yurt village for a full semesterStarting with a seven-day canoe tripLearning without phones or computersBuilding community through shared daily lifeWhy the Adirondacks make such a powerful classroomHow the experience changes students long after they leave Resources: St. Lawrence University Adirondack SemesterAdirondack Semester Weekly UpdatesDonnelly’s Soft Ice CreamMt. ArabRaquette River OutfittersWhy Loons Return to the Same Adirondack Lake Each Year Produced by NOVA

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    Adirondack True Crime, Part Two: Ghosts of the Herkimer Jail

    In part two of our conversation with the Adirondack Park Paranormal Society, we move from Big Moose Lake to the old Herkimer County Jail, where Chester Gillette awaited trial after the 1906 murder of Grace Brown. APPS shares what they experienced inside the jail, how they approached the investigation, and why they believe some of the building’s most infamous former inmates may still make their presence known. The conversation goes well beyond ghost stories. The team reflects on the energy they encountered in Chester Gillette’s cell, describing a presence that felt cold, egotistical, and intensely aware of attention. They also explore the story of Roxalana Druse, the last woman hanged in New York State, whose life, trial, and death opened up a deeper conversation about abuse, women’s rights, and the way history lingers in a place. This episode is eerie, emotional, and deeply rooted in Adirondack history. Whether you come for the paranormal or the true crime, it is a reminder that old buildings often hold more than artifacts. Sometimes they hold stories that still feel unfinished. What you’ll hear in this episode APPS explains how they got access to the historic Herkimer jail and why it had long been a bucket-list investigation for the team.The group shares what they sensed in Chester Gillette’s cell and why they felt his presence was still drawn to an audience.You’ll hear the haunting story of Roxalana Druse and why her case still raises questions about justice, abuse, and who may really have been responsible.The team also talks about the difference between intelligent and residual hauntings, and how certain places seem to keep replaying the past. Resources: Adirondack Park Paranormal Society (APPS)APT Alchemy Podcast (APPS Podcast)An American Tragedy by Theodore DreiserThe Prison Diary and Letters of Chester Gillette (edited by Jack Sherman & Craig BrandonHerkimer County Historical Society and the 1834 JailADK Talks: Echoes from Beyond: Paranormal Investigations in the Adirondacks Produced by NOVA

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    Adirondack True Crime: The Murder at Big Moose Lake

    More than a century ago, a quiet Adirondack lake became the setting for one of the most infamous true crime stories in American history. In this episode of ADK Talks, we dive into the tragic case of Chester Gillette and Grace Brown—a story of ambition, deception, love, and murder that unfolded at Big Moose Lake in the early 1900s. What began as a secret romance in a Cortland skirt factory ended in a chilling act that captivated the nation and still lingers in Adirondack lore today. Joined by the Adirondack Park Paranormal Society (APPS), we explore not just the crime itself, but the people behind it, the cultural ripple effects, and why this case continues to fascinate more than 100 years later. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, we step inside the historic Herkimer County Jail, where APPS investigates what may still remain. What you’ll hear in this episode A secret romance leads to an unexpected pregnancy and rising tension.A trip to Big Moose Lake promises a new beginning but ends in tragedy.A rowboat, a remote bay, and a story that doesn’t quite add up.A sensational trial unfolds with love letters and national headlines.The case inspires a landmark novel and a classic Hollywood film.A closer look at the mindset of Chester Gillette. Resources: Adirondack Park Paranormal Society (APPS)APT Alchemy Podcast (APPS Podcast)An American Tragedy by Theodore DreiserMurder in the Adirondacks: An American Tragedy Revisited by Craig BrandonThe Prison Diary and Letters of Chester Gillette (edited by Jack Sherman & Craig BrandonFilm: A Place in the Sun (starring Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift) Produced by NOVA

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    Seagle Festival 2026: Opera, New Works & A Bold Vision for the Adirondacks

    From Hill to Stage: Seagle Festival’s Next Act in the Adirondacks For more than a century, the Seagle Festival has been a summer tradition on the shores of Schroon Lake—where emerging artists arrive with big voices and leave ready for the world stage. In this episode of ADK Talks, we welcome back Artistic Director Darren Woods along with Director of Education and Community Outreach Josh Cook. Together, they share how Seagle is building on its 111-year legacy while setting the stage for an ambitious, year-round future in the Adirondacks. From a rigorous national audition process to a bold capital campaign, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to grow a thriving arts ecosystem in a rural region—and why it matters now more than ever. What you’ll hear in this episode Seagle Festival’s origin story—how a NYC voice teacher’s summer escape became the oldest vocal training program in the U.S.Inside the audition process: 400 applicants, 32 spots, and the search for something truly “extraordinary.”Highlights from the 2026 season, including The Sound of Music, HMS Pinafore, Mozart’s Così fan tutte, and the powerful contemporary opera Dead Man Walking.How Seagle alumni are making waves on Broadway, at the Met Opera, and across Europe.The expansion of youth programming—giving North Country kids hands-on experience both on stage and behind the scenes.“Opera shots” pop-up performances across the Adirondacks—bringing live music to bars, breweries, and unexpected venues.A vision for the future: a winterized campus, new theater, and year-round performances that could transform the regional arts scene. Resources: Seagle Festival — Explore the 2026 season, meet the artists, and purchase tickets (season passes available now; individual tickets on sale April 1).NewVida Preserve (Lake Placid area) — Scenic venue for upcoming Opera Shots pop-upsThe Deerhead Inn — Historic jazz venue and returning Opera Shots locationNorth Star Underground Railroad Museum (Keeseville) Produced by NOVA

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    From Sap to Syrup: Inside Adirondack Maple Season with Toad Hill Farm

    For many Adirondack families, maple syrup is simply part of life. It’s on the breakfast table, in the kitchen, and woven into generations of seasonal tradition but behind every bottle of pure maple syrup is a remarkable blend of forestry, science, craftsmanship, and patience. In this episode of ADK Talks, we head to Thurman, New York to visit with Randy Galusha, owner of Toad Hill Maple Farm. Randy shares how a childhood experiment with a few buckets and spouts grew into one of the region’s premier maple operations, tapping more than 3,000 trees across an 853-acre sustainably managed forest. Along the way, we explore how maple sugaring has evolved from the bucket-and-horse days to modern tubing systems, vacuum collection, and reverse osmosis technology that dramatically improves efficiency while protecting the trees. You’ll also hear how maple syrup’s flavor develops, why darker syrups often win taste tests, and how producers transform sap into everything from maple candy to bourbon barrel-aged syrup. And if you’re planning a spring trip to the Adirondacks, Randy gives us a great preview of Thurman Maple Days — one of the region’s sweetest seasonal events. What you’ll hear in this episode How Toad Hill Maple Farm grew from a childhood hobby into a large-scale maple operationWhat actually happens inside a maple tree that makes sap flow in springBuckets vs. tubing systems — how technology changed maple productionWhy it takes roughly 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrupThe science behind reverse osmosis and modern evaporatorsMaple syrup grades explained: golden delicate, amber rich, dark robust, and very dark strongWhy darker syrups often have stronger maple flavor and win taste testsMaple products beyond syrup: candy, cream, granulated sugar, and maple caramel cornThe rise of infused maple products, including bourbon barrel-aged syrupHow maple producers manage forests sustainably for long-term productionWhat to expect at Thurman Maple Days and why it’s a must-visit Adirondack event Resources: Visit The Toad Hill Maple Farm WebsiteCrane MountainNettle Meadow FarmThurman Maple Days - 3 Weekends in March Produced by NOVA

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    Breaking Trail: Women Who Shaped the Adirondacks (Revisited)

    In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re revisiting a conversation that still resonates: our interview with Peggy Lynn and Sandra Weber, co-authors of Breaking Trail: Remarkable Women of the Adirondacks. For generations, Adirondack history has centered on guides, industrialists, conservationists, and explorers — most of them men. But women were here all along. They were lumber camp cooks and lobbyists, poets and reformers, business leaders and environmental advocates. They shaped communities, protected wild lands, founded institutions, and quietly transformed the culture of the North Country. This updated edition of Breaking Trail brings their stories back into the light — and invites all of us to ask: whose stories are still waiting to be told? What you’ll hear in this episode How Peggy and Sandy first realized Adirondack women’s stories were missing from the historical recordWhy now was the right time to bring Breaking Trail back for a new generationThe creative partnership behind the book — and how songwriting helped shape the storytellingThe mystery of Esther Mountain and the elusive Esther CombsLumber camp cooks, 18-hour days, and women who could go from hip boots to ball gownsThe legacy of women like Grace Hudowalski and Inez Milholland — now honored with High PeaksWhy women’s history belongs in the mainstream narrative, not on the sidelines Resources: Notable women mentioned in this episode include Emily Russell, Anne LaBastille, Mary Brown, Margaret Emerson, Alice Patton Green, Lydia Martin Smith, Mother Johnson, Nellie Staves, Esther Combs, Grace Hudowalski, Inez Milholland, Joan Payne, Fran Yardley, Betsy Folwell, and Barbara McMartin.Breaking Trail: Remarkable Women of the Adirondacks – available from Purple Mountain PressJohn Brown Farm State Historic Site (Lake Placid)Adirondack Experience: The Museum on Blue Mountain LakePaul Smith’s College Produced by NOVA

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    Kitchen Confidential (ADK Edition) with Chef Billy Trudsoe

    What’s really happening behind the kitchen doors of an Adirondack restaurant in the dead of winter? In this episode of ADK Talks, we welcome back Chef Billy Trudsoe of Lizzie Keays in Warrensburg for an honest, energetic, and eye-opening conversation about restaurant life in the Adirondacks. We jokingly dubbed this one “Kitchen Confidential: Adirondack Edition,” and Billy delivers. From skeleton crews and shoulder seasons to garlic loyalty and watermelon obsessions, he pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to survive—and thrive—as a chef and small business owner just minutes off the Northway. We also dive into his global travels (hello, Bali), his ever-expanding “Mad Flavor” brand, restaurant collaborations across the region, and why supporting local businesses isn’t just a slogan—it’s survival. What you’ll hear in this episode What winter really looks like for Adirondack restaurants—and why patience from diners matters  How Billy’s travels to Bali influence dishes like his spicy Bali stir fry  Why old-school dining touches (bread service, palate cleansers, lingering meals) still matter  The economics of seasonal businesses in a summer-driven region  Behind the scenes of the “Battle of the Billy’s” local restaurant challenges  Why garlic is non-negotiable in Billy’s kitchen   Resources: Lizzie Keays Restaurant   Follow Billy Trudsoe on Instagram: @adkchef Season 21 of Hell's Kitchen ft Billy Trudose Email us your restaurant suggestions or questions: info@adktaste.com Produced by NOVA

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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, offering hand-picked recommendations for the best places to stay, eat, shop and do in the Adirondack Park.But this isn't just about places. It's about the people who make the Adirondacks so special and unique. In each episode, we talk to people from all walks of life—restauranteurs, farmers, innkeepers, historians, artists, local leaders, writers, hikers, and more. Hear real stories about what they do, their passions, and how they found their way here.And they'll share their insider tips on the best things to see and do in the Adirondacks – insights you won't find anywhere else.So subscribe now to ADK Talks to get real stories from real people, sharing the real Adirondacks.You can also visit us online at adktaste.com.

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