Cidiot

Mat Zucker - Living in the Hudson Valley
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Learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley. Hosted by Mat Zucker. Have you fantasized about living in the country? Curious what the transition is like? Or are you a local and want to see a different side of the folks who've invaded your land? The award-winning podcast Cidiot® has been featured in The Albany Times-Union, Chronogram, Country Living, Hudson Valley Magazine, The Poughkeepsie Journal, NBC's Today.com, and more. For updates visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram. Email: goats@cidiot.com © Mat Zucker 2018-2026. Cidiot is a ® trademark.

  1. 132. Chocolate is a Fruit? Bryan Graham of Fruition Chocolate Works

    2D AGO

    132. Chocolate is a Fruit? Bryan Graham of Fruition Chocolate Works

    Let's go bean-to-bar. In this episode of Cidiot,® Mat Zucker dives into the world of world-class indulgence right here in the Hudson Valley.  Joining the show is Bryan Graham, the award-winning chocolatier and co-founder of Fruition Chocolate Works. From his roots in the Catskills to the kitchens of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Bryan shares his journey of building a bean-to-bar empire. We talk about the "American craft chocolate movement," why milk chocolate is making a massive comeback, and the surprising truth about where those cacao beans actually come from. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Fruit Factor: Why your favorite chocolate bar actually starts as a tropical fruit seed.Local Collaborations: How Fruition incorporates Hudson Valley flavors, from West Wind Orchard raspberries to Tuthilltown Distillery bourbon.The Tasting Notes: What to look for in a high-quality bar (and why "cocoa" vs. "cacao" isn't as scary as it sounds).Inside the Shop: The scoop on Fruition’s locations in Shokan, Poughkeepsie, and their new pop-up in Cambridge, MA.Whether you're a dark chocolate purist or a fan of "adult chocolate milk," this episode is a sweet celebration of local craft. Special Offer for Cidiot Listeners Fruition Chocolate Works is offering 20% off for the Cidiot community! Use code CIDIOT20 at checkout. Shop Online: Fruition Chocolate WorksIn-Person: Visit the retail stores in Shokan (Route 28), Poughkeepsie (Eastdale Village), or the pop-up on 1316 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, MA. (Limit one use per customer. Valid online and in-store. For a limited time.) Links & Resources: Fruition Chocolate Works: fruitionchocolate.comAlleyway Ice Cream: Mentioned in the episode for their local collaboration - https://alleywayicecream.com/Stockade Tavern: Home of the legendary (and exclusive) Jalapeno Corn Nut snack - https://www.stockadetavern.com/ Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Cidiot on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocketcasts, or Goodpods and leave us a review! Special thanks to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio, and host of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast. ©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.

    31 min
  2. 131. Bridges of the Hudson Valley

    APR 8

    131. Bridges of the Hudson Valley

    In this episode of Cidiot®, we explore the literal "connective tissue" of our region: the bridges.  Host Mat Zucker is joined by Chris Steber, Public Information Officer for the New York State Bridge Authority, to discuss the five major vehicular crossings—from the "grand-daddy" Bear Mountain Bridge to the Rip Van Winkle.   We dive into the fascinating history of these landmarks, including why Franklin D. Roosevelt vetoed the first attempt at a northern bridge, the "engineering epic" of the Mid-Hudson Bridge construction, and the mystery of why the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge doesn't actually land in Rhinecliff or Kingston. The episode also highlights a truly unique marriage of infrastructure and art: Bridge Music. Composer Joseph Bertolozzi transformed the Mid-Hudson Bridge into a massive percussion instrument by recording the sounds of its cables and railings. If you're walking the bridge between April and October, look for the listening stations at each tower to hear the bridge's own soundtrack! Episode Highlights & Resources: Engineering History: Insights into the Bear Mountain Bridge Centennial Page and archival 1924 Fox Newsreel Footage of Bear Mountain Bridge of its construction. (Note: This footage was provided courtesy of the Moving Image Research Collection at the University of South Carolina.) Local Lore: The story of Monsignor Joseph Sheahan, the Poughkeepsie priest who campaigned for the Mid-Hudson Bridge, and the 1930 Universal Newsreel showing its grand opening. Chris’s Recommendations: Explore the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar College or the "hidden gem" gardens at Wethersfield Estate & Garden.  Special Thanks: A huge thank you to Joseph Bertolozzi for his generous permission to feature his music in this episode. We also want to extend gratitude to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast, for his expert help in bringing this story to life. ©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.

    45 min
  3. 130. Spring Through

    MAR 25

    130. Spring Through

    After a brutal winter, spring in the Hudson Valley isn't just a temperature change—it’s a shift in soul. In this episode, Cidiot® explores the "palpable optimism" of the season, from the practical (and messy) realities of country living to the psychological power of starting fresh. Mat shares his 7-step guide to mastering spring upstate—covering everything from the melody of melting creeks and the return of outdoor farmers' markets to the essential "joiner" culture of CSAs. We also hear a moving reflection on the deeper meaning of the season. And from a conversation with Cidiot listener Jacqui Rose, we discuss the concept of "Springing Through" grief, the healing power of the Hudson Valley landscape, and the importance of rebuilding community after loss. Episode highlights: The Mud & The Melody: Why muck boots are your most important spring investment.Country Logistics: Fixing gravel driveways and the "Project" mindset.The Return of the Outdoors: Ending the boycott of indoor farmers' markets and the hunt for the best farm stands (Copake, Kingston, Montgomery Place, MX Morningstar, and Samascott Orchards).Car Soccer Memories: A tribute to Red Hook’s legendary (and flammable) town event.CSA 101: Why you should join a Community Supported Agriculture program (and yes, you will use all that lettuce).Spring Flavors: What’s actually in season, from ramps and fiddlehead ferns to maple syrup.Healing in the Valley: Jacqui Rose on moving through grief, becoming a "joiner," and finding a home in Slow Food Hudson Valley. Special Event Mention: Wild Hudson Valley, a fundraiser presented by Rigor Hill Farm at Liberty Farms. Date: Sunday, April 26Benefit: Supports Slow Food Hudson ValleyTickets at Slow Food Hudson Valley site Links to highlights mentioned in the episode: Slow Food Hudson ValleyMontgomery Orchard Wayside Stand, Red Hook Hearty Roots Community Farm, Clermont MX Morningstar, Claverack Samascott Orchards, Kinderhook Kingston Farmers Market, KingstonCopake Hillsdale Farmers Market, HillsdaleHudson Valley CSA Coalition Guest editor: Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of the other most-awarded podcast in the region, Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast. This episode's sponsor: Super-extra thanks to long-time Cidiot listener Jacqui Rose for sponsoring this beautiful episode and sharing her story, and helping us all “Spring through.” (If you'd like to sponsor an episode of Cidiot, please reach out via the Contact Us page at Cidiot.com.) Thanks, everyone, for tuning into magical Season 9! Come visit. ©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.

    10 min
  4. 129. Columbia County Morning News - Start Your Day with Yeh

    MAR 12

    129. Columbia County Morning News - Start Your Day with Yeh

    Who do you trust for the "real" news?  In a landscape of paywalls and strictly managed county reporting, Mat sits down with Jeff Yeh, the man behind the largest social media news source in Hudson Valley's Columbia County. From tracking DUI arrests to questioning local political transparency, Jeff’s unconventional approach has earned him millions of views—and a fair share of controversy. In this episode of Cidiot®, Mat and Jeff discuss the "wild west" feel of Columbia County, the delicate balance of being a "local meddler," and why Jeff isn’t afraid to delete your comment if you won’t sign your name to it. Hyperlocal newspapers & blogs (please send in others you know of): Columbia County Morning News - "Start Your Day with with Yeah"A Little Beacon Blog (Beacon)Bluestone Press⁠ (Marbletown, Rochester, Rosendale)Columbia PaperCroton History & Mysteries (Croton)The Daily Catch (Red Hook and Rhinebeck)Daily Freeman (Ulster, Green & No. Dutchess Counties)The Gardiner Gazette (Gardiner):The Gossips of Rivertown (Hudson)The Highlands Current (Philipstown, Cold Spring, Garrison)Hudson Common Sense (Hudson)Hudson Valley One (Ulster County)Hudson Valley PostIMBY (several counties)Kingston Wire (Kingston) Mid-Hudson NewsOssining History on the Run (Ossining)Porcupine Soup News (Green County)Tgazette (Taghkanic)Trixie's List (Hudson) Visit Cidiot.com for more links and episodes. Thanks for tuning into Season 9! ©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.

    26 min
  5. 128. Slow Food Hudson Valley

    MAR 4

    128. Slow Food Hudson Valley

    This episode is hilarious—and delicious. Host Mat Zucker dives into the magical world of local farming and the global Slow Food movement with Pierre Fredrichs, co-chair of Slow Food Hudson Valley and owner of Overlook Farms in East Chatham. Recorded at the Creative Legion in Hudson, we discuss: ​The Movement: How a McDonald’s in Rome sparked a global mission for "good, clean, fair food for all."​Life on the Farm: Pierre’s journey from private chef to tending 120 acres of pigs (including a 500-lb celebrity named Bacon!), "living sculpture" alpacas, and guinea fowl.​Eat Local: The secrets of "egg-speriment" at his farmstand, the protein power of guinea fowl eggs, and the joy of community cookbook clubs.​Farmer Life: Transitions from New Orleans to Montauk to the Valley, and the truth about a farmer's social life. Special thanks to listener Jacqui Rose for the introduction and Creative Legion for hosting. Learn more: Slow Food Hudson Valley | Overlook Farms Other links: ​Creative Legion (Hudson)​Talbott & Arding (Hudson)​Kinderhook Farmer’s Market​Chatham Farmer’s Market​Via Carota (NYC)​Quinnie’s (Ghent)​OK Pantry (Kinderhook)​Northwind Farms (Tivoli)​Sawkill Farm (Red Hook)​Bee Hollow Farm (Kinderhook)​Liberty Farms (Ghent)​Columbia Land Conservancy Nonprofits they fundraise for: ​Columbia Kitchen (Hudson)​Long Table Harvest​Dutchess Outreach (Poughkeepsie) Visit Cidiot.com for more information and links. Much thanks to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of the other most awarded podcast in the region, Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast. ©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.

    34 min
  6. 127. Magic in the Hudson Valley (Season 9 Premiere)

    FEB 18

    127. Magic in the Hudson Valley (Season 9 Premiere)

    “One is fooling the mind. The other is fooling the eyes.” —Thomas Baker on the difference between a magician and an illusionist Season 9 is out! With Cidiot®, I’ve been trying for more than 125 episodes to open your eyes to new things. This season will be all about wonder. We need to look into the wonder to see what’s possible. So this season starts with magic. Thomas Baker is an illusionist based in Hudson Valley's Saugerties, New York, known for creating moments that defy explanation. He has sold out the Bridge Street Theatre in Catskill and performed for major brands including L’Oréal Paris, as well as audiences throughout the Hudson Valley. His work spans weddings, festivals, and live events, where reality bends, and expectations vanish. With a style rooted in suspense and surprise, Baker leaves his audiences in stunned silence long after the illusion ends. You know I love accolades. Thomas has been called “Houdini of the Hudson Valley.” Thomas and I talk about becoming a magician, what works, how to identify the cidiot in the audience, and we even do an audio magic trick! You’ll love him, and you should book him for your next dinner party, Bar Mitzvah, or event.  Where to find Thomas Baker: Instagram: @tbakermagic FacebookGigSaladEmail: tbaker@exit20.com Much thanks to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of the other most awarded podcast in the region, Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast. ©2025 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a Registered Trademark.

    16 min
  7. 126. Winter Thrive Guide (Season 8 Finale)

    12/30/2025

    126. Winter Thrive Guide (Season 8 Finale)

    Winter in the Hudson Valley is not a metaphor. It’s a physical, emotional, and occasionally muddy reality—one that arrives early, lingers late, and demands respect (and better boots). In the Season 8 finale of Cidiot, Mat wraps up a year-long exploration of the “Creative Human” with a practical—and lightly self-deprecating—survival guide for making it through a Hudson Valley winter with your sanity intact. From generators and wood-burning stoves to libraries as lifelines and the quiet heroics of simply showing up, this episode distills what we’ve learned this season into three essential rules for wintering well: physical readiness, creative resilience, and social warmth. This is not about mastering winter. It’s about practicing life here—embracing the hearth, the community, and the small rituals that make the cold months not just survivable, but meaningful. You’re a cidiot. You’re doing it. And you’re home. Come visit. Places Mentioned Neverstill Wines — Hudson, NYThe Maker Hotel — Hudson, NYMid-Hudson Library SystemStarr Library — Rhinebeck, NYRough Draft Bar & Books — Kingston, NYBooks & Cake — Hillsdale, NYThe Spotty Dog Books & Ale — Hudson, NYThe Yoga House — Kingston, Highland, Poughkeepsie, NY Excerpts from “Hudson Valley Reveries” by Will Forge and “Hudson Valley Winter” by Jennifer Rodriques. Thanks for listening to Cidiot®, the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley. Sign up for the newsletter at Cidiot.com , and please rate and review the show here or in the Apple Podcasts store. This episode’s guest editor is Drew English of Upstate Podcast Studio ©2025 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a Registered Trademark.

    5 min
  8. 125. No Set Path

    12/13/2025

    125. No Set Path

    What does it look like to build a creative life without a ladder, a map, or a five-year plan? In this crossover episode, I sit down with Kingston-based cinematographer, podcaster, and all-around creative human Drew English, host of the podcast No Set Path. We interviewed each other for our respective shows, and this is the Cidiot cut—rooted in the Hudson Valley, flavored with dirt, neighbors, and the reality of figuring it out as you go. Drew shares his journey from years in the NYC film world to building a life (and a studio) in Uptown Kingston—one that balances creativity, parenthood, community, and work that doesn’t always follow a straight line. We talk about why Kingston has become such a magnet for creative people, the myth of the “COVID panic buyer,” how podcasting grew out of basement space and curiosity, and why no set path is actually the point—whether you’re navigating a career, a town, or a brand-new way of living. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can leave the city without leaving yourself behind, this one’s for you. Podcasts, radio stations, and other good things mentioned: Upstate Podcast Studio (Kingston, NY) No Set Path podcast The Valley Girls Podcast Kaatscast podcastHudson Valley Unleashed podcastRhinebeck Scoop podcast Radio Free Rhinecliff Cinema Kingston ⁠WKZE⁠ radio station, Red Hook, NYArrowood Farms, Accord, NY Special: There's a video version of the episode available on Cidiot’s YouTube channel. Thanks, Drew! Thanks for listening to Cidiot®, the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley. Sign up for the newsletter at Cidiot.com and please rate and review the show here or in the Apple Podcasts store. Come visit. This episode’s guest editor is Drew English of Upstate Podcast Studio ©2025 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a Registered Trademark.

    30 min
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4.7
out of 5
80 Ratings

About

Learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley. Hosted by Mat Zucker. Have you fantasized about living in the country? Curious what the transition is like? Or are you a local and want to see a different side of the folks who've invaded your land? The award-winning podcast Cidiot® has been featured in The Albany Times-Union, Chronogram, Country Living, Hudson Valley Magazine, The Poughkeepsie Journal, NBC's Today.com, and more. For updates visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram. Email: goats@cidiot.com © Mat Zucker 2018-2026. Cidiot is a ® trademark.

Information

  • Creator
    Mat Zucker - Living in the Hudson Valley
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    133
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 758405
  • Show Website
    Cidiot

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