What do you get when you cross a farmer, a baker, an educator, and a cooperative visionary? You get Dan Rivera of Triple Green Jade Farm, a transformative force in the Champlain Valley of the Adirondacks, where loaves rise, soil sings, and rural dreams ferment into something real. Join us for a warm and hearty conversation with Dan, the wood-fired wizard behind one of the Adirondack region’s most soulful farms.

We get into:

• How two city folks fell for a scrappy farmstead in Willsboro
• The art (and science) of baking the perfect sourdough
• Why starting a farm co-op might be the most inventive (and rewarding) thing you can do in 2025

If you’ve ever dreamed of quitting your day job to raise chickens and craft the crustiest loaf east of the Mississippi, this one’s for you.

Dan and his wife Kimmy transformed a dormant farmstead into a beacon of rural creativity—and now, they’re inviting others into the fold by launching a cooperative model built for the long haul.

Learn more about Dan and Kimmy at Triple Green Jade Farm's website. Also mentioned in this podcast

• New American Stone Mills
• Full and By Farm in Essex
• Cedar Hollow Farm
• Cooperative Development Institute
• Adirondack Hay and Organic Grains
• Five-Day Bread Intensive with Master Baker Carl Shavitz
• Ward Lumber
• Cooperative Development Institute
• Cornell Cooperative Extension of Essex County
• Pace Food Law Center
• Adirondack Community Housing Trust
• Trigo in Westport
• Sugar House Creamery Dutch Knuckle Cheese
• Westport, NY
• Saranac Lake Farmers' Market
• Joni Mitchell - The Circle Game
• The Saranac Chain of Lakes
• Oseetah Lake

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and things to experience in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

You can read more about Triple Green Jade Farm on our website.

Do you have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at info@adktaste.com.

In this episode of ADK Talks, we’re heading to Tupper Lake, where we sit down with Brian Burns, the owner, with his wife Renee, of the beloved Northwood Cabins.

Located along Route 30, a stone's throw from the heart of Tupper Lake and the glistening waters of Raquette Pond, Northwood Cabins is not just a place to rest your head. It's a captivating Adirondack experience, steeped in nostalgia and enveloped in the soothing scent of pine.

Brian takes us behind the scenes of this vintage roadside motel-meets-modern mountain escape, where Brian and Renee welcome guests like family, and each cabin tells a story. From his family’s decision to restore rather than replace, to the meticulous work behind maintaining the property’s mid-century charm, Brian shares what it means to preserve a slice of Adirondack history while meeting the expectations of today’s travelers.

What Makes Northwood Cabins Unique?

• Authentic cabin vibe – Enchanting interiors, cozy porches, and crackling fire pits evoke the golden age of road trips.
• Thoughtful restoration, while retaining its vintage charm, has been thoughtfully updated with modern comforts. Fresh linens, WiFi, locally roasted coffee and crackling fire pits enhance the experience.
• Location, location, location – Perfect base camp for exploring the Wild Center, paddling the Tupper Lake waterways, or hiking in the Tri-Lakes region.
• Community-focused – Brian’s passion for Tupper Lake shines through in his support of local businesses and events, making each stay a truly Adirondack experience.

If you’ve ever fantasized about owning a bespoke inn or motel, have a soft spot for throwback road trip motels, or are seeking insider tips for your next stay in the Adirondacks’ Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region, this episode is a must-listen. Renee and Brian’s journey is brimming with heart, humor, and just enough elbow grease to inspire anyone with a fixer-upper dream.

Also mentioned in this podcast:

• Red Canoe Antiques
• Washboard Donut Shopee and Laundromat
• Seven Gables Antiques
• Buck Pond
• Hex and Hop
• Great Camp Santanoni
• Noonmark Mountain
• Newcomb, NY
• OkTUPPERfest
• Raquette River Brwering
• Woodshed on Park
• P-2's Irish Pub in Tupper Lake
• Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and things to experience in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

You can read more about Northwood Cabins on our website.

Do you have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at info@adktaste.com.

In this episode of ADK Talks, we explore the connection between the quality of the water in Lake George and the preservation of its surrounding land. Our guest, Sarah Hoffman from the Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC), will shed light on the ripple effect of land conservation on this iconic lake, the Queen of American Lakes.

Sarah joins us to explain how keeping land wild keeps water clean, why your favorite swimming spot depends on smart preservation, and how LGLC works behind the scenes to protect the lake you love, from its mountaintop views to its crystal-clear depths.

If you’ve ever marveled at the clarity of Lake George and thought, “Wow, this place is magical,”—well, it's not magic. It's science, strategy, and a lot of passion.

Whether you're a paddler, hiker, lakeside lounger, or full-on eco-nerd, this episode connects the dots between conservation and sustainability—and shows how you, as an individual, can be a significant part of the solution.

🎧 Listen now to learn how saving land today protects water for generations to come.

👉 Like what you hear?

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Because protecting Lake George isn’t just a local issue—it’s a legacy

Mentioned in this podcast:

• Lake George Land Conservancy
• Up Yonda Farm
• Lake George Mirror
• Geographic Information Systems
• Caroline Ramersdorfer
• Beaver Deceivers
• The Schumann Preserve
• Carl Heilman II – Photographer
• LGLC Events
• Amy’s Park
• Black Point Beach

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat, and do things in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Do you have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you, and your thoughts are important to us. Email us at info@adktaste.com.

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

info@nextdaypodcast.com

What unfolds when a couple, deeply enamored with the Adirondacks and armed with grand aspirations and remarkable courage, chance upon a dormant legend? In this episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the journey of Amanda and Ryan Ragland, the dynamic couple who breathed new life into the Schroon Lake Department Store — a pivotal part of Adirondack life since the late 1800s.

Three years ago, Amanda and Ryan didn’t just buy a building — they inherited a community’s memories, a town’s spirit, and a history worth saving. Against all odds (and a few roof leaks), they’ve transformed the Department Store into a vibrant hub where visitors and locals alike can still find everything from hiking boots to handmade candles — and a little magic, too.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of community, the revival of cherished places, and the pursuit of dreams (plus, we reveal a few behind-the-scenes insights about the realities of running a traditional department store in the modern era).

Whether you're a die-hard Adirondack adventurer or someone who loves a good story about heart, hustle, and hometown pride, this episode will have you planning your next road trip to Schroon Lake.

Also mentioned in this podcast:

• Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
• The Gem Smokehouse in Bolton Landing
• Seagle Festival
• Adirondog Grooming
• Pine Cone Mercantile
• The Sembrich Opera Museum

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat, and do things in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Do you have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at info@adktaste.com

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

info@nextdaypodcast.com

Raise a dram and settle in for a spirited conversation equal to heritage, humor, and Highland flair. In this episode of ADK Talks, we journey to the northeastern edge of the Adirondacks to Crown Point, NY, near Lake Champlain, where War Cannon Spirits is rewriting the rules of craft distilling—one perfectly aged barrel at a time.

Our guests, Paul, Joel and Aidan, take us behind the stills to explore the unique blend of distilling tradition and Adirondack ingenuity at War Cannon. From grain to glass, you’ll hear what makes their small-batch spirits sing, a blend of tradition and innovation that goes beyond just the pure mountain water.

And if your bagpipes just perked up, good. Because we’re also diving into the distillery’s upcoming Burns Night Celebration—a spirited toast to Scotland’s national poet, complete with whisky, haggis, tartan, and maybe even a rogue kilt or two. It's a celebration that will immerse you in the rich culture of Scotland.

Whether you’re a fan of fine spirits, fascinated by Scottish lore, or just want an excuse to wear plaid and toast Robert Burns in the springtime, this episode is for you.

• Listen now.
• If you like what you hear, we invite you to subscribe to ADK Talks Podcast and leave us a five-star review. Your engagement is what keeps our community thriving.
• Visit ADKtaste.com to explore more Adirondack stories.

Mentioned in this podcast.

• War Cannon Spirits
• Burns Night
• Address to a Haggis
• Tam o'Shanter

Slàinte Mhath! 🥃✨

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

info@nextdaypodcast.com

Can't make it to the Adirondacks? No worries! In this episode of ADK Talks, we embark on a literary expedition through the mountains, exploring books that capture the essence of the Adirondack experience.

From thrilling tales set in the heart of the wilderness to insightful narratives about the region's rich history, we've curated a reading list that promises to transport you straight to the towering pines and serene lakes of the North Country.​

• Listen now.
• If you like what you hear, subscribe to ADK Talks Podcast and leave us a five-star review.
• Visit ADKtaste.com to explore more Adirondack stories.

Whether you're an avid reader seeking your next great adventure or longing for the crisp air and rustling leaves of the Adirondacks, this episode offers a perfect blend of storytelling and exploration. Let us guide you through pages that echo the loon's call and the pines' whisper.​

Our reading list.

• Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper
• God of the Woods by Liz Moore
• The Spy Who Loved Me by Ian Fleming
• Woodswoman by Anne LaBastille
• Cloudsplitter by Russell Banks
• American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser
• Loon Lake by E.L. Doctrow

Mentioned in this podcast.

• Cooper’s Cave
• Fort William Henry
• Robert Garrow
• Douglas Legg and Great Camp Santanoni
• ADKX
• John Brown Farm
• Chester Gillette
• “A Place in the Sun”

​Subscribe, listen, and let the Adirondack adventures begin—no hiking boots required!​

In this mouthwatering episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with Joq Quintal, who, along with his family, has been operating Oscar’s Smokehouse for three generations.

Oscar’s, a Southern Adirondacks institution, has tantalized taste buds for over 80 years. From its legendary smoked bacon and 7-year-aged sharp cheddar to fan-favorite sausages and jerky, Oscar’s has earned a cult following—locals, tourists, and even celebrities can’t resist.

Joq takes us behind the scenes of this family-run smokehouse, sharing stories of resilience, tradition, and what it takes to keep the smokers running (hint: passion, patience, and a lot of hickory). He also dishes about some of Oscar’s favorite local food producers, like Saratoga Crackers, Nettle Meadow Cheese and Upper Hudson Coffee

We’ll also discuss Oscar’s deep roots in the community, their dedication to top-notch customer service, and—most importantly—what you absolutely need to try on your next visit.

This episode is for you if you love great food, local legends, and sizzling stories.

• Listen now.
• If you like what you hear, subscribe to ADK Talks Podcast and leave us a five-star review.
• Visit ADKtaste.com to explore more Adirondack stories.

Warning: This episode will make you hungry. Don't say we didn’t warn you!

Mentioned in this podcast.

• Oscar’s Adirondack Smokehouse
• Upper Hudson Coffee
• Saratoga Crackers
• Nettle Meadow Cheese
• Rachel Ray’s Favorite Oscar’s Products
• Spargel on Nine
• Pray’s Farmers Market
• Crossroads Country Store
• Cronin’s Golf Course
• Ridge Terrace

In this spine-tingling episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the shadows with the Adirondack Park Paranormal Society, the region’s foremost team of ghost hunters and supernatural sleuths. Their expertise and experience have led them to investigate some of the most haunted locations in the Adirondacks, from eerie whispers in historic hotels to mysterious figures spotted deep in the woods.

Join us as we explore the science and skepticism behind paranormal investigations, uncover the chilling history of the places they’ve researched, and hear firsthand accounts of encounters that defy explanation. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or just love a good ghost story, this episode is for you. We welcome all perspectives, and this episode will have you questioning what lurks beyond the veil.

Turn down the lights, turn up the volume, and prepare for a journey into the paranormal.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Hotel Saranac
• Trudeau Sanatorium
• Stagecoach Inn Lake Placid
• Russia Union Church
• Chester Gillette and Grace Brown murder
• Haunted Lake George
• Ogdensburg, NY
• Herkimer County Jail
• Roxalana Druse

Also mentioned in this podcast:

• The Sandy and Toddcast
• Deer’s Head Inn
• Barkeater Chocolate’s Haunted History
• The Empathecary Podcast
• Historic Saranac Lake Tours
• APPS Facebook Page
• Stay Weirdos Facebook Group
• Cliffside Coaster at Mt. Vanhoevenberg
• ADKX, the Museum at Blue Mountain Lake
• The Wild Center in Tupper Lake
• Stone Valley Trail

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and do in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Do you have questions or comments? Your feedback is invaluable, and we'd love to hear from you! Email us at info@adktaste.com.

Remember to subscribe, rate and review us. We’d love to have you join our podcast community.

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

info@nextdaypodcast.com