Cidiot

137. Empire Rye: New York's Own Whiskey

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 11:01:00 GMT

Head north to Old Chatham in the Hudson Valley with us for another walk-and-talk adventure — this time at Silver Brothers Distillery, set on a beautiful former sheep farm with rolling hills, open vistas, and serious "old money" energy.

Host Mat Zucker sits down (and walks around) with founder Matt Greitzer — yes, two Matts for the price of one — who traded 25 years of NYC marketing and advertising for full-time farm life and a whiskey business named after his twin sons.

Matt G. gives us the full grain-to-glass tour: the milling room, the mash tun, an echoey barrel room holding 610 barrels, and the difference between a hammer mill and a roller mill (it matters more than you'd think). We get into what makes New York whiskey distinct, the Empire Rye designation, why Matt's rye is naturally gluten-safe, and how climate shapes flavor from the Hudson Valley to Kentucky to Scotland. Then it's tasting time: the American Single Malt, the three-year rye, and the very limited Single Barrel Rye #8 — plus new vocabulary for your next tasting room visit, including "grapefruit pith" and "distiller's beer."

🥃 Special offer for Cidiot listeners: Silver Brothers is offering a complimentary tour and tasting, just like the one Cidiot took. Head to silverbrothers.com, select "Tours and Tastings," book a tour, add it to your cart, and enter the discount code CIDIOT at checkout to make it free. The offer is for first-time customers only and available for a limited time — so book soon.

And while you're at it, head to the Cidiot.com blog for a tasting guide so you can pour like a pro at home.

🎧 Episode Timestamps

[00:00] Cold open — Matt Greitzer on New York's Empire Rye designation
[01:10] Cidiot theme song
[01:20] Intro: heading to Old Chatham and Silver Brothers Distillery
[02:50] Matt Greitzer's roots in the area and the path back home
[05:20] From wine hobbyist to whiskey distiller
[06:50] Why whiskey: grain, water, and barrels all on one farm
[08:20] The story behind the name "Silver Brothers"
[10:00] Property history — from working sheep farm to distillery
[11:00] Grain prep and the difference between malted and unmalted barley
[11:40] How malting works
[12:10] Inside the milling room — hammer mill vs. roller mill
[14:40] The production room and the mash tun
[15:20] Mashing in and converting starch to sugar
[16:00] Fermentation and "distiller's beer"
[17:10] How a pot still works and the science of distillation
[19:30] 🎁 Silver Brothers listener promo — complimentary tour & tasting
[20:10] Into the barrel house — 610 barrels aging
[20:20] Where the barrels come from (cooperages and used bourbon barrels)
[21:30] Terroir, climate, and how geography shapes whiskey flavor
[23:30] What Empire Rye is and why it matters for New York whiskey
[24:30] Advice for whiskey "cidiots" just getting started
[25:50] The tasting begins
[27:20] Tasting the American Single Malt
[29:10] Tasting the three-year rye
[29:40] Tasting the Single Barrel Rye #8
[31:20] Where to find Silver Brothers

136. Moving and Storage in the Hudson Valley

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:09:00 GMT

Whether you are packing up a one-bedroom apartment or hauling a heavy, beloved upright piano between boroughs, moving is a massive, stressful milestone. In this episode of Cidiot, we are pulling back the curtain on the moving industry to unpack the mysteries of proper packing, budgeting, and storage.

Mat sits down with Ryan Hart from Mabey’s Moving & Storage—Columbia County's newly crowned best moving company by the Register Star—to deliver the ultimate guide for cidiots on the move.

Fun fact: Ryan was actually on the crew that moved Mat into his own Hudson home (though Mat admits his official moving strategy is total abandonment until the dust settles!).

What We Unbox in This Episode:

Pack Like a Pro: Why paper is your best friend over bubble wrap, and how to use the "blue tape" method to streamline your next local move.
The Reality of Rates: What to actually expect from an estimate, and what a "white glove" service really adds to your timeline.
Storage Secrets: The critical importance of climate control for your household goods (and your couple hundred missing books).
Broker Beware: The massive red flags that signal you are dealing with a moving broker instead of a real, local brick-and-mortar company.
Local Gems: Ryan shares his favorite escape in the Adirondacks and the absolute best cider donut/distillery combo in Columbia County.

Special Live Read: We kick off the episode with a beautiful, moving live reading from Tony Barnstone, poet, author, and professor of literature and creative writing at Whittier College. Be sure to check out his beautifully illustrated book, Apocryphal Poems, linked below.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Poetry: Apocryphal Poems by Tony Barnstone (Amazon)
Our Trusted Mover: Call Mabey's Moving & Storage at 518-283-0017 for a free estimate, or visit them online to download their comprehensive "packing bible."

Ready to dive in? Get out your blue tape, stay off the Reddit horror threads, and let’s get moving!

Thanks for listening to Cidiot®. Come visit.

And special thanks to Mabey’s Moving & Storage, and to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast.

135. Navigating the Hudson with Freedom Boat Club

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:51:58 GMT

Ah, there is nothing quite like being out on the water—especially on our beloved Hudson River! 🌊

In this episode of Cidiot®, we are diving headfirst into the boating lifestyle. I’m joined by Josh Rosella of Freedom Boat Club to talk about how they are making waves right here in the region. As the world’s largest boat club, they are opening up the water to everyone with three fantastic Hudson Valley locations spanning both sides of the river—Ossining, Haverstraw, and Piermont—plus a spot at Liberty Landing in Jersey City for our New Jersey listeners.

We talk all about the incredible local boating lifestyle, including my absolute new obsession: "dock and dine" (because what is cooler than pulling up to a restaurant by boat?). Plus, Josh fills me in on what it actually means to go "sandbarring."

🎁 Special Offer for Cidiot Listeners!

Ready to get out on the water yourself? Save $500 off your membership fee to Freedom Boat Club!

Text “Cidiot” to Membership Director Vince at 845-271-2999, or email lowerhudsonvalley@freedomboatclub.com and mention the Cidiot podcast.

The offer is available to new members only and expires at the end of the 2026 boating season, in October.

Thank you, Freedom Boat Club, and Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast.

134. Summer Like A Local: Visit Columbia County

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

New York City has the energy, but Columbia County has the air.

Two years moving here from just 20 minutes south in the Hudson Valley, host Mat Zucker still feels like a bit of a "cidiot" sometimes—always eager to explore more of the incredible 635 square miles of valley, hills, farms, and villages right in his backyard.

In this special episode, produced in collaboration with Columbia County Tourism, Mat serves up a very personal seasonal guide.

Whether you're a foodie chasing the ultimate farm-to-table breakfast slot, an outdoor enthusiast hunting for hidden trails (and accessible restrooms!), or a shopper looking to bring a piece of the Hudson Valley home with you, we’ve got you covered.

Best of all, you won't just hear from Mat. This episode features a collection of local voices dropping in via "audio postcards" to share their own favorite spots and neighborhood pride.

Thanks for the audio postcards to: Chef Jonas at Serre (Hudson); Emily at Woodlife Market (New Lebanon); Matthew at Hillsdale General Store (Hillsdale); Bill from Kinderhook; and Emily at Clermont Historic Site.

Consider this an open invitation from an entire county that’s ready for its close-up. Below are the places and links mentioned:

Part 1 For Foodies:

Cafes and Coffee Shops:

Kitty’s (Hudson)
The Maker Cafe (Hudson)
Little Rico (Hudson)
Wylde Hudson (Hudson)
Moto Coffee/Machine (Hudson)
Supernatural Coffee + Bakery (Hudson)
Lev & Ida’s Sandwich Bar (Hudson)
Quinnie’s (Claverack)
Bartlett House (Ghent)
Fork & Whisk Cafe & Bakery (Chatham)
Cook & Larder (Hillsdale)
Twisted Sisters Coffee House (Hillsdale)
Otto’s Market (Germantown)
Cupps Coffee (Germantown)
Briskette & Birdie (Canaan)
Blueberry Hill Market Cafe (New Lebanon)

Country Diners:

Dan’s Diner (Spencertown)
Dove’s Diner (Ancram)
Hudson Diner (Hudson)

Breweries, Distilleries and Wines:

Neverstill Wines Tasting Room (Hudson)
Cooper’s Daughter Spirits at Olde York Farm (Claverack)
Roe Jan Brewing Co. (Hillsdale)
Hillrock Estate Distillery
Suarez Family Brewery (Clermont)
Hudson- Chatham Winery (Ghent)

Finer, Fancier Dining:

Serre at The Maker (Hudson)
Bimi’s Canteen & Bar (Chatham)
Shadow 66 - French (G

133. Walking Olana: Exploring the Iconic Hudson Valley Landmark

Thu, 07 May 2026 17:07:16 GMT

Just in time for Frederic Church’s 200th birthday, we’re taking you along for a "boots on" tour of the moving landscape he spent decades designing here in the Hudson Valley.

I’m walking the carriage roads of the Olana Historic Site with Annik LaFarge, author of the new book Composing Olana: A Journey on Foot Through Frederic Church's Greatest Work of Art. It’s the first book about this thoughtful and artful landscape.

You’ll hear the wind in the trees and the crunch of the gravel as we discover how Church used the earth itself as his canvas—from a man-made lake that mirrors the Hudson to the "erratic" boulders left behind by glaciers. Walking Olana, you’ll hear, is like "standing inside a painting." It’s an episode about seeing the hidden layers of the valley we love, sponsored by our friends at the Olana Partnership.

We’ll learn a ton about Olana and about Frederic Church, who wasn’t necessarily a weekender but just might have been a cidiot. Annik and I also came up with a new sitcom idea: “Cole & Church.”

Grab your walking shoes, let’s head outside.

Links to Highlights:

Olana Partnership Frederic Church 200th: (OLANA.org/FC200)
Composing Olana: A Journey On Foot Through Frederic Church’s Greatest Work of Art (Cidiot Bookshop on Bookshop dot org)
Germantown Boat Launch
Catskill Mountain House

“He used features of the landscape as his characters.”

—Annik LaFarge on Frederic Church

Thank you to The Olana Partnership for supporting this episode and guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast. Come visit.

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

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:03:00 GMT

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 Works
In-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.com
Alleyway 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.

131. Bridges of the Hudson Valley

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:01:00 GMT

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.

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

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:01:00 GMT

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 Paper
Croton 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 Post
IMBY (several counties)
Kingston Wire (Kingston)
Mid-Hudson News
Ossining 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!

128. Slow Food Hudson Valley

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:04:00 GMT

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

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

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:01:00 GMT

“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:

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.

126. Winter Thrive Guide (Season 8 Finale)

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 22:26:22 GMT

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, NY
The Maker Hotel — Hudson, NY
Mid-Hudson Library System
Starr Library — Rhinebeck, NY
Rough Draft Bar & Books — Kingston, NY
Books & Cake — Hillsdale, NY
The Spotty Dog Books & Ale — Hudson, NY
The 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

125. No Set Path

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 14:49:41 GMT

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:

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

124. The Duffles

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:01:00 GMT

Live from Hudson, NY, it’s an author Q&A with Brian Shaefer and his debut novel Town & Country.

Recorded in front of a live audience at Spark of Hudson, Mat moderates a conversation about character, plot, and the worlds of weekender and local coming together. The story follows a congressional race set in a fictional town of Griffin, inspired by the Hudson Valley.

“Duffles” is Brian’s word for cidiots. One lesson which I really appreciated is the importance for all of us in a community, as Brian says, in just “showing up.” We also play the Cidiot® Geography Game with instinctive reactions to a list of towns across the Hudson Valley.

Be sure to get your copy at your local bookstore, via his author page, or through the Cidiot bookstore on Bookshop dot org.

Places Mentioned:

Hill Rock Distillery, Ancram
Rogers Book Barn, Hillsdale

Hillsdale General Store, Hillsdale
Books & Cake, Hillsdale
Zinnia’s Dinette, Craryville
Random Harvest Market, Craryville
Spotty Dogs Books & Ale, Hudson
Spark of Hudson, Hudson
Rough Draft Bar & Books, Kingston
Merritt Bookstore, Millbrook
Harney & Sons, Millerton
Phoenicia Diner, Phoenicia
Cinnamon, Rhinebeck
Diamond Mills Resort, Saugerties
Camp Catskill, Tannersville

About Brian Shaefer:

Brian contributes regularly to The New York Times and has written for The New Yorker, New York magazine, and more. He is a recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in Arts Journalism and was a finalist for the Livingston Award for International Reporting. He earned his master’s degree in creative writing from Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv. He and his husband live in New York City and the Hudson Valley. Town & Country is his first novel.

Early praise for Town & Country:

“A big-hearted and true debut novel set in a small rural town amid a congressional race that forces the candidates, their families, and a clique of gay second homeowners to confront lies, betrayals and shifting allegiances. —Andrew Sean Greer, Pulitzer Price winner
“Rich in sex and social intrigue.” —The New York Times

Photo credit: Stephen Mack
This episode’s guest editor is Julian Blackmore.

123. Dog City

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 11:28:00 GMT

Meet Patrick, owner of Lily’s Natural Pet Store, which just opened its second location after Poughkeepsie in Hudson.

We talk dogs—a favorite subject—and why he chose Hudson, why not on Warren Street for his second location, why it’s not your average pet store, about running a pet business (I was thinking of doing one!), and tackle my burning questions such as the smell of bully sticks and what’s so great about raw. And like on many other Cidiot® episodes, we end with favorite places in the Hudson Valley… to take dogs.

Lily’s Natural Pet Store — 76 N 7th Street, Hudson, NY 12534

“Soft opening” in November (check hours).
Grand opening Friday, December 5, 2025.
Tell ‘em Cidiot sent ya!

Other places and businesses mentioned:

Red Wing Park, East Fishkill
Pause Dog Boutique, Rhinebeck

Guest editor: Drew English of Upstate Podcast Studio

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.

122. Yoga in the Valley

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 23:48:56 GMT

Meet Amy and Joyce, owners of The Yoga House, now with three locations in the Hudson Valley — Kingston, Highland and Poughkeepsie.

One grew up in the HV; one is a transplant from Queens—what a great fit for coming on Cidiot.

We talk about yoga, the different types, and poke a bit of fun (well, I do, and they’re good sports about it). They share how they got into yoga, which you won’t believe has quite a bit to do with roller derby. They also share some travel advice for cidiot bodies in the car or on the train coming upstate. They helped even helped me turn it into a blog post you’ll find on Cidiot.com with photos as well.

Special Offer for Cidiot® Listeners:

Mention "Cidiot" and get a FREE CLASS and receive access to a special 15% off discount on regularly priced class passes and memberships. Notes: Limited time, one per person, first time customers only. Thanks, Joyce and Amy.

Learn more at The Yoga House: https://www.theyogahouseny.com/

Timestamps to segments:

01:25 Mat's history with yoga
02:50 Their connections to the Hudson Valley
06:32 How and why they started The Yoga House
07:40 Types of yoga, including for people like Mat
13:37 Guide to yoga for cidiot travelers on train and car (see blog post)
17:20 More on practice types and defining them
22:02 Cidiot geography game, this time with stereotypes for how they practice yoga (hilarious)
29:40 Favorite place in the Hudson Valley

Quotes from the episode:

“Yoga House is founded on a basic principle that yoga should be accessible, enjoyable and affordable for every body”— Amy

“We teach more to energies — are you looking to chill out, do you want something more energetic?” — Joyce

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 at the site or in the Apple Podcasts store. Come visit.

121. Health Care

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:01:00 GMT

James Lauren is a board certified nurse practitioner who recently opened up a primary care clinic in Hudson. James is also a new homeowner and bravely let me try in-person recording at his adorable farmhouse with my miniature new recording system.

We talk about primary care—what it is and why it matters, plus who their clinic serves. Short answer: everybody.

We also chat about being a new homeowner, bartering labor, talking to people, being nice, painting a subfloor (which is a thing) and what a carpet knife is. Yes, I am still learning new things.

Ice cream comes up and we trade notes about our favorite spots across the Valley, plus an upcoming visit to a corn maize. Tune in for a great, timely conversation, and if you are looking for a medical provider, check out James practice called Westside Family Medicine in Hudson, NY.

Links to places mentioned in this episode:

James Lauren’s web site with appt scheduling
Westside Family Medicine, Greenport/Hudson
Tommy B’s Pizza, Craryville

Random Harvest market, Craryville
Zinnia’s Dinette, Craryville https://www.zinniasdinette.com/
Sideshow Vintage, Craryville
Samascott’s Orchards, Kinderhook https://www.samascottorchards.com/
Stewart’s (multiple locations)
Fortune’s ice cream, Tivoli
Holy Cow, Red Hook
Del’s Dairy Farm, Rhinebeck and Hudson
Story Screen Cinema, Hudson
Plaza Diner Hudson, Greenport
Grandma’s Hands Bakery

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 at the site or in the Apple Podcasts store. Come visit.

120. Money Talks in Beacon

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 02:24:09 GMT

Let’s talk about money and about Beacon. This episode, Mat chats with Lena Rizkallah of Conte Wealth Advisors, who is a Chelsea-turned-Beaconite financial advisor.

Through Lena, we’ll get to know Beacon better, including lots of great places to eat. We’ll also hear Lena’s story and all she does as a part of the community and building financial literacy in the rest of us. She hosts panels and speakeasies about money, and even does stand up storytelling. Lena was named 2023 Chronogrammies Best Financial Planner of The Hudson Valley, and she was on a great episode of another regional podcast, “Beaconites.” Tune in, and you’ll know why.

Links to places, stores and restaurants mentioned:

Lena Rizkallah (website)
Beaconites! Podcast

Poor George, Cold Spring (store)
Madam Brett Park, Beacon
Long Dock Park, Beacon
Lyonshare Public House, Beacon (bistro)
Beacon Bread Company (breakfast)
Moreish, Beacon (English-style breakfast)
Oda Wine Garden, Margaretville
Brushland Eating House, Bovina

Events:

Lena has an upcoming Women in Business panel at Hudson Yards in NYC Tuesday September 30, 2025. Please email her at LRizkallah@contewealth.com.
Money Speakeasy happens the 2nd Tuesday of every month in Cold Spring. Email her LRizkallah@contewealth.com to be added to the mailing list.

Thank you for listening to Cidiot® , the award-winning podcast about living the Hudson Valley. Sign up for the Cidiot listener newsletter and review/rate the shot at Cidiot.com.

119. The Mid-Hudson Libraries

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:30:00 GMT

“Libraries are rooms of requirement.”

— Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, Executive Director, Mid-Hudson Library System

This week on Cidiot®, we’re talking libraries — not just the quiet, book-filled havens you remember, but vibrant community hubs evolving with the times. I’m joined by Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, executive director of the Mid-Hudson Library System (MHLS), which spans 66 libraries across 70 locations in five Hudson Valley counties.

We cover everything from the history and future of libraries to banned books, digital access, and how libraries are stepping up as civic centers. Plus, we dive into one of the coolest things happening right now: the Mid-Hudson Library Road Trip. It’s a self-paced adventure through October where you can visit as many libraries as you like — no library card required. Just pick up a map, hit the road, and explore some of the region’s most charming buildings. Perfect for a sunny Saturday or a rainy day wander.

And if you love libraries like I do, we talk about how you can support — whether that’s downloading Libby to read more or signing up to be a library advocate through the New York Library Association.

Links mentioned in the episode:

LOCAL BOOKS & AUTHORS

Perfectly Broken*, Robert Burke Warren
History of the Hudson River Valley, Vernon Benjamin
The Forest Euphoria*, Patricia Kasian

( *Available in the Cidiot bookstore on Bookshop.org)

PLACES

Innisfree Garden (Millbrook)
Find your local library⁠

ACTIVITIES

MHLS Road Trip (web); @midhudsonlibsys (Insta)
Tag your photos with #MHLibraryRoadTrip

Photos: Courtesy of the Mid-Hudson Library System

118. Music in the HV

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:08:00 GMT

“This area attracts talented creative people seeking opportunities to play out, all seeking opportunities to play with each other.” — MK Scully

Join MK Scully, afternoon host and promotions director at WKZE in Red Hook, as Cidiot® digs deeper into the local music scene. Who are the local bands? Where would you go to see them? We talk about both as well as about songs about the area. Genre wise, it’s everything. Singer-songwriter-folk to rock and roll to metal to funk bands to (great) cover bands.

Link to resources mentioned on the episode:

MK on Instagram: @mk.ultramatic
WKZE 98.1 FM
Radio Woodstock
Radio Kingston
Mat’s audiobook produced at WKZE (via Amazon and Audible)
Home from Here with John Burton Show
DIY Kingston - @diykingston
Utopia Studios (Bearsville Studios), Woodstock
Reddit/Hudson Valley: https://www.reddit.com/r/hudsonvalley

Local bands you should know:

Local venues with music:

Songs about the area:

“The Catskills Stole My Heart,” Burnell Pines

“County Road 14,” Dante De Felice
“Story of Fred Short,” Marco Benevento
“My Enemies”, James Felice (2025)

Thank you for listening to Cidiot® , the award-winning podcast about living the Hudson Valley. Sign up for the newsletter and review/rate the shot at Cidiot.com.

117. Neverstill

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In Episode 117 of Cidiot®, host Mat Zucker sits down with Christy Counts, the president and founder of Neverstill Wines, a New York State-based winery with a tasting room right in Hudson, NY. Christy shares her journey from wine enthusiast to entrepreneur, detailing how she built Neverstill Wines with a focus on sustainability, community, and a deep love for the Hudson Valley.

Christy discusses her philosophy behind the Neverstill label, including her commitment to minimal intervention winemaking and supporting local farmers. She also talks about the inspiration behind the name "Neverstill"—a nod to the ever-changing nature of wine, the landscape, and life itself. The episode delves into the distinct character of Hudson as a destination for wine enthusiasts, artists, and urban transplants, and how Neverstill Wines is designed to be a gathering spot for locals and visitors. Christy and Mat discuss the importance of fostering community through wine and the growing New York State wine economy.

Terms to know for this episode:

Minimal intervention: A winemaking approach that limits additives and manipulation, letting the grapes and terroir shine.
Tasting room: A dedicated space where visitors can sample and purchase wines directly from the producer.
Flight: Curated selection of wines, usually 3 to 6, often presented for tasting comparison and exploration

Links from the episode:

Visit Neverstill Wines, 739 Warren St., Hudson, NY
Follow Neverstill on Instagram for updates on new releases and events: @neverstillwines

Feast & Floret 13 South 3rd St., Hudson (Restaurant - dinner or weekend brunch pick)
The Quiet Botanist, 426 Warren St., Hudson (Shop)
Talbott & Arding, 202 Allen Street, Hudson (Cheese & Provisions Market)
Quinnies, 834 Route 66, Hudson (Restaurant - lunch pick)

Other Regional Wine & Bev Links:

Dutchess County Wine Trail (Dutchess County Tourism)
"Hudson Valley Wineries" (recent feature in HV Magazine)
"Artisanal Beverage Makers in Columbia County" map (Columbia County Tourism)
Shawangunk Wine Trail (13 wineries across the region)

Thank you for listening to Cidiot®, the award-winning podcast about living the Hudson Valley. Tune in and raise a glass with us!

Special promotion from Neverstill: Drop by Neverstill Tasting Room on Warren Street and mention "Cidiot," and you’ll get a complimentary wine tasting. Certain restrictions apply. For a limited time. Thanks, Christy!

116. Cidiot, Come Hither

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:53:00 GMT

This episode was inspired by a spontaneous poetry commission on the street in Hudson, NY. A poet named Jacqueline crafts “Cidiot, Come Hither,” and Mat takes stock of escaping bubbles and breaking routines.

Thanks so much for listening. Please rate and review Cidiot® and sign up for the show’s newsletter at Cidiot.com.

Links to places and resources mentioned in the episode:

Moto Coffee, Hudson, NY (https://www.motocoffeemachine.com/)
Walkway Over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie, NY (https://walkway.org/)
Innisfree Garden, Millerton, NY (https://www.innisfreegarden.org/)
Hudson Food Festival, June 7, 12-6 pm, Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, Hudson, NY
The Workshop Experience, May 10 and 11, Hillsdale, NY area (https://www.theworkshopexperience.org/)
Hudson Valley Food Truck Festival, June 21, Barton Orchards in Poughquag, NY
Upstate Art Weekend, July 17-21 https://www.upstateartweekend.org/about
Destination Dutchess Calendar https://destinationdutchess.com/calendar
Trixie’s List (Hudson, NY) https://www.trixieslist.com/

115. Your Home is Your Castle

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:49:00 GMT

Meet Madeline Hung of Castle, a finance app that helps homeowners save time and money managing their homes. Madeline says she’s a San Francisco cidiot trying to recreate her Bay Area lifestyle here in the Hudson Volley. She and her husband Hugo have created a service that does two things: One is to understand the money you’re saving, and the second part is to help you optimize and save. Their average customer, as you’ll hear, is saving $10,000.00. That’s real money. “It seems like it all should be knowable,” says Madeline.

Terms you should know for this episode:

DIY - Do it yourself
SEDI - Someone else does it

Links:

Head over to www.getcastle.com to sign up for your two-week free trial of the Castle mobile app today.
Vote for Cidiot® for Regional Podcast in the Chronogram Readers Choice Awards through May 15, 2025.

Thanks for tuning in this season. Please send in feedback and rate and review the show at Cidiot.com. Most of all, come visit.

114. Home From Here

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:30:00 GMT

Ready for something different? On this episode of Cidiot®, you’ll hear from John Burton, host of the popular podcast “Home From Here.”

Hear John’s history from Rhinebeck to New York City to Westchester—and his plans to get back up here to the HV. As John explains, he wants to get back to his people. The people of the Hudson Valley are “Sophisticated and simple at the same time, smart and funny at the same time.”

John puts it all out there. We talk about his wife’s incredible cancer journey, his own challenges with mental health, music in the Hudson Valley, and the Lifted Project - coming up Sunday, April 6, at the Center for Performing Arts in Rhinebeck. It’s a unique one-day musical experience bringing together a huge group of musicians to perform original music to support and provide visibility for four amazing nonprofits. Tickets are just $25.

Towards the end, we also discussed our idea for a ‘Cidiot Immersion Class,’ which I really want to do, and we even started to program its curriculum. Let me know if you’re game to help.

Meanwhile, act quickly for tickets for Sunday, April 6:

The Lifted Project: https://liftedproject.org/

Venues mentioned:

Also:

Mat on Home from Here show - episode 217 (MixCloud) or More Links (the show's website)
Valley Girls Podcast (thank you for introducing us)

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about moving from the city to the Hudson Valley. Come visit.

113. Resilience

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:00:00 GMT

What can we learn from the nature—and animals—around us? Meet Jessica Morgenthal, host of the new, already award-winning “Resilience Gone Wild” podcast. Mat’s been a guest, and now Jessica is one on Cidiot®.

Tons of talk about donkeys, goats, chickens, sea turtles, beehives, and more. Nature can be loving, nature can be harsh. The answers we’re looking for are sometimes right in front of us. And at the end, bonus: you’ll hear the real difference between turtles and tortoises.

Links:

"Resilience Gone Wild" podcast links to listen

Mat on Episode 20 of "Resilience Gone Wild"

The Biggest Little Farm (film)

What the Chicken Knows by Sy Montgomery (book)

Thanks for tuning in. Come visit.

112. Story Screen

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:01:00 GMT

“We're trying to create the best version of a night out” — Mike Burdge of Story Screen Cinema

The arts are huge in the Hudson Valley, including film and cinema. In this episode, Mat talks to Mike Burdge of Story Screen Cinema about independent film and theatres in the Hudson Valley. Hear Mike and his partner Diana DiMuro’s story, from working in hospitality and hosting after-hours movie pop-ups to owning their own unique cinemas—first in Beacon now in Hudson.

Mike also shares how they decide what to show for so many different audiences on just three screens and gives a candid explanation of ticket prices, concessions and permission to sneak stuff in. Mat loves this cinema—there’s a table at your seat plus a bar and movie-themed food and drinks. Better yet, Mike may have agreed to help Mat achieve one of his major bucket list items to do an ensemble sing-along of a movie musical.

Mike and Diana also helped Cidiot create a big list of movies and TV shot in the Hudson Valley that you might want to watch. See the list on the Cidiot blog. Maybe we’ll create a Cidiot film festival!

Links for mentions in the episode:

Story Screen (Hudson)
Upstate Films (Rhinebeck, Saugerties, Woodstock)
The Movie House (Millerton)
Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory

Mike writing about film in Chronogram

Thanks for tuning in. Come visit.

111. Reveries (Season 8 Premiere)

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 12:02:00 GMT

Welcome to Season 8 of Cidiot®!

Mat kicks off by re-grounding us in what partly makes the Hudson Valley so special—the space. Inspired by local young writer Will Forge and his new book “Hudson Valley Reveries,” Mat helps us lose ourselves among an iconic Shawongunk tree. Will writes, “Patricia herself was a peculiar sort….. preferred the company of trees to people…”

Will’s advice for cidiots is also Mat's for this season opener. Let’s appreciate where we’re at, think about where we’re at, understand the history—and appreciate the story of it.

Excited to have you tune in to the show—so much more coming this season.

“I want more people to come to the area and appreciate where they are coming to.” — Will Forge

Links:

Support Will and read his book (Amazon): http://bit.ly/42CQnhx
Hudson Valley Writers Center: https://www.writerscenter.org/
Writers in the Mountains: https://www.writersinthemountains.org/
Cidiot Episode 85: Camp Catskill: https://www.cidiot.com/85-camp-catskill/

110. Light at the End of Warren Street

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 22:04:49 GMT

This little light of mine….

For the Season 7 finale of Cidiot, and just in time for Winter Solstice, Mat explores the idea and need for light in the darkness. There are three themes of light: the light that guides you; the light that cheers you; and the light that helps you believe.

Thank you to everyone who participated this season. Special shout-outs to editor Isaac Rostan and my husband Brian Fuhr. Join the Cidiot newsletter at Cidiot.com to be ready for next season.

Quote:

“Lighthouses don’t go looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.” Anne Lamott

Links:

Cidiot® is the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley, produced and hosted by Mat Zucker. Please rate & review the show at Cidiot.com, join the mailing list, and get in touch about what you like—and what you’d like to hear about. And come visit.

109. Franklin's Trees

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:03:00 GMT

“Stories tell you what’s important to people.” - AJ Schenkman

Thanks to Jennifer Santiago and Jenny Leifer of The Valley Girls podcast, I was introduced to a writer and public school teacher A.J. Schenkman. He writes a lot about area history and has published multiple books including “Patriots and Spies,” Wicked Ulster County,” “Washington’s Headquarters in Newburgh” and most recently the beautiful illustrated children’s book “Franklin’s Trees.”

As you’ll hear on this episode of Cidiot®, A.J.’s brand of writing and teaching is “History Made Seamless,” which means making history accessible. We talk about how he got into writing about history, Eleanor wanting a place of her own away from mother-in-law, witness trees, stories from the FDR National Historic Site, elk, and A.J.’s new illustrated book: “Franklin’s Trees.”

“A good book will transform you through time,” he promises so excited to share this conversation and a slew of stories about FDR, Eleanor, trees, and more.

Links to highlights from this episode:

Franklin’s Trees, by A.J. Schenkman (Muddy Boots publishing)
A.J. Schenkman's blog “History Made Seamless”
Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
Val-Kill, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Historic Huguenot Street (New Paltz)
A.J. on Literary Hudson Valley (YouTube)
Cidiot Episode 29: Eleanor Was Right

Thanks to the Valley Girls Podcast and their new show, Literary Hudson Valley.

Cidiot® is the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley, produced and hosted by Mat Zucker. This episode was brilliantly edited by Isaac Rostan. Please rate & review the show at Cidiot.com, join the mailing list, and get in touch about what you like—and what you’d like to hear about. And come visit.

108. Go-Go Hudson with Mark Allen

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:07:04 GMT

Hudson, New York is still a new place for me, so this episode Cidiot tries to take a short cut to getting to know why the way things are.

I find the best way to do this is through people who’ve been here for years and who reflect the way things are and maybe even shape them.

Meet Mark Allen, a film-maker, a writer, a radio host, and yes, a former go-go boy. Mark and I both grew up in the 70s and 80s, though I was not a go-go boy nor featured in Paper Magazine. He is prolific and provocative and is generous and hilarious sharing what he sees. We talk about Hudson’s culture, about video, dinner parties, the waves of gays, advice for cidiots—and of course the back alleys of Hudson.

Links highlighted in episode:

About Mark Allen

Mark Allen’s YouTube channel

“Are Hudson’s Sidewalks Safe for NYC Tourists” (Youtube):
Time & Space Limited, Hudson:
Wax museum, Lake George

Cidiot® is the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley. Please rate & review the show at Cidiot.com, join the mailing list, and get in touch about what you like—and what you’d like to hear about. And come visit.

107. Gossips of Rivertown

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:08:00 GMT

Carole Osterink writes The Gossips of Rivertown, a blog that is news and commentary (and takes its name from a novel by a Hudson writer). It’s a must-read for all of us who live here. This episode tune into Carole’s story, how she chooses what to cover, if she considers herself a journalist andtr advise if you want to start a hyperlocal news sources like it in your town.

I hope you have something like it where you live. And I hope it’s written by someone like Carole.

Hyperlocal newspapers & blogs (pls send in more!):

A Little Beacon Blog (Beacon)
Croton 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)
The Hudson Valley Pilot (Rhinebeck)
Hudson Valley One (Ulster County)
Hudson Valley Post
IMBY (several counties)
Kingston Wire (Kingston)
Mid-Hudson News
Ossining History on the Run (Ossining)
Tgazette (Taghkanic)

Plus, Mat is recently interviewed on the Rhinebeck Scoop podcast about Cidiot.

There also are many good visitor and travel blogs to the Hudson Valley but that’s a separate list. Let me know if I should put one together.

106. Town

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:01:00 GMT

This episode, Mat shares the news of moving—still within the Hudson Valley of course. Some thoughts on change and new opportunities. Some questions too. Are you still a cidiot if you move back to a city?

Links to what’s mentioned:

The Corner Counter, Red Hook
Red Hook Stationery Co., Red Hook
Taste Budd’s, Red Hook
Pause Dog Boutique, Rhinebeck
Trixie’s List
Story of Hudson
Wylde, Hudson
Little Rico Cafe, Hudson

105. The River

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:02:00 GMT

What is it about water? The Hudson River is the central fixture of the Hudson Valley, so Mat honors it as the muse and focus of this episode. He shares a poem by William Cullen Bryant about the Hudson, “A Scene on the Banks of the Hudson” which will take you from the shores of Beacon to, well, who knows where you will go. Tune in and come visit.

Links highlighted:

The Hudson River Maritime Museum
Riverkeeper
William Cullen Bryant via Academy of American Poets
“A Scene on the Banks of the Hudson” (Poem)
Friends of Clermont Historical Site
The Effects of Water on Mental Well-Being (Espyr)
Episode 50 - Hudson River Lighthouses

104. Barnfox

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:05:33 GMT

This episode, Mat talks to Freddy Pikovsky, co-founder of Barnfox. Barnfox is a co-working community across the Hudson Valley, with locations in Hudson, Kingston, Livingston Manor, and Poughkeepsie. Freddy shares how early experiences in the outdoors inspired him, moving from the city to the Hudson Valley, the original intent for Barnfox, and what it is today.

Don't miss this: Freddy also has a special offer for Cidiot® listeners — a free day pass at any Barnfox location to experience it yourself.

Visit: https://barnfox.com/cidiot-day-pass/ https://barnfox.com/cidiot-day-pass/

Other Links

Barnfox: https://barnfox.com/
Co. in Rhinebeck: https://www.coworkwith.co
Freddy’s book Back to the Land on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/FARM-LANDS-Back-Land-Outdoor/dp/1452173338) or via Chronicle Books: (https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/farm-land-s-back-to-the-land)

Music credits:

"Ebbs and Flows" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

103. Firefighting

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 11:07:02 GMT

Join Cidiot® for a conversation with Ryan Wexler, a local volunteer fire captain to hear about what it’s like to be a firefighter. Mat learns about ways to volunteer and support local fire departments, why you should buy a 911 sign for outside your home, why the best time to have an emergency is at night, where animals fall in the rescue cue, when “the tones” hit, and more.

Links mentioned:

FASNY Museum of Firefighting - Hudson NY: https://fasnyfiremuseum.com/
Greenport Fire Department: https://www.townofgreenport.com/fire-department.html
Cidiot Episode 9: "Red All Over" https://www.cidiot.com/9-red-all-over/

Get a 911 Sign for your home:

Next Generation Signs - Ghent, NY : https://www.nextgensignsinc.com/
Matthew Signs - Stockport, NY: https://www.facebook.com/matthewsignsllc

102. Valley Girls

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:01:00 GMT

Cidiot’s last crossover event was Episode 77 with Brett Barry of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast. Well, I just discovered the new Valley Girls podcast, so synchronized to release at the same time, here I interview them about their show, and they interview me on their pod.

Jenny Leifer and Jennifer Santiago are hosts of the Valley Girls Podcast. We talk about why they started their show, telling the Hudson Valley story one character at a time. They give a bit of advice for cidiots, we play the hilarious Hudson Valley geography game, and we end with their go-to-spots, which include Mills Mansion and swimming holes. Good timing for that.

Links mentioned on this episode:

Listen to the Valley Girls Podcast: valleygirlspodcast.com
Follow them on Instagram: @ValleyGirlsPodNY
Mat’s Rural & Country Podcast list on Goodpods: https://goodpods.com/curated-lists/podcasts-for-rural-and-country-living
Episode 77: The (Other) Best Regional Podcast: https://www.cidiot.com/77-the-other-best-regional-podcast/
Vanderbilt National Historic Site (Hyde Park, NY): https://www.nps.gov/vama/index.htm

101. Herd It Here

Thu, 16 May 2024 12:11:00 GMT

You know I love chickens, but my biggest curiosity is with cows. So was very excited to talk to Kyle and Amanda from Gulden Farm. Kyle and Amanda grew up in the area and join us for a special episode about farming. We talk about Kyle’s journey to Montana and back, the story of Gulden Farm, what it means to farm sustainably, my cidiot questions about cows, and even about that great logo I love.

Plus, to tempt you to try their amazing grass-fed meats and products, they’re offering Cidiot listeners a 10% discount now through July 31, 2024 at their store. Just use CIDIOT2024 at checkout (Certain limitations may apply.)

Photos provided by Kyle & Amanda.

100. Here's to 100

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:01:00 GMT

90% of podcasts don’t publish more than three episodes. And of the 200,000 shows that do go beyond three, 90% will quit after 20 episodes. So hitting 100 episodes like Cidiot® does this month is a rare bird. Or, well, maybe a rare goat. For Episode 100 and this milestone in regional podcasting history, Mat brings back some favorite moments and favorite voices to punctuate the journey from city to country. 🐓🐐🐔 Thank you to everyone who’s listened so far, and been a part of the show to date. This includes Kallie at Sawkill Farm, Kate Steward at Shion Studio, Dairo Chamorro of the Empire Regulars, Allison Chawla at Radio Free Rhinecliff, and my brother-in-law’s brother-in-law Irwin Levy at Our Hamptons podcast. Cidiot is the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley. Thank you so much editor Isaac Rostan for your artful blending and music again this episode. This very special episode was recorded in my hometown in the Hudson Valley and in my original hometown of Springfield, NJ. We’re all from somewhere. Come visit.

Visit ⁠Cidiot.com⁠ for links to listen and more information.

99. Ulster Eateries Unfiltered

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 16:42:03 GMT

Cidiot®'s back! Jason Bover, photographer, foodie and founder of Ulster Eateries Unfiltered, joins to kick off Season 7. He shares with Mat his relationship to the Hudson Valley, growing up in the food and bev business and local ingredients. We talk about the Ulster Eateries Unfiltered Facebook group as well as the gatherings and its VIP discount card supporting local restaurants, not to mention his appearance on "Kitchen Nightmares" and meeting Gordon Ramsey. Jason also just started his own coffee brand, Tiny Dog Coffee, bagged and packaged here in Saugerties. Join Ulster Eateries Unfiltered for free on Facebook. Get the VIP Foodies Card for discounts to more than 70 businesses and support local. Buy online at Ulster Eateries Unfiltered website: ($20) or available in person for $15 at: Kingston Candy Bar (Uptown Kingston) Twin Ravens Coffee Company (Ellenville) Village Pizza (New Paltz) Some of Jason’s picks: Urban Fork, Kingston Mexico Lindo, Kingston El Mercadito, Kingston Salt and Fire, Kingston Kingston Standard, Kingston Dallas Hot Wieners Half Moon Rondout Cafe Supernatural, Hudson Moto, Hudson Lagousta’s Lucious, New Paltz More Jason Bover links: Wedding photography: Above Weddings Tiny Dog Coffee As featured in HudsonValleyOne: Follow the Foodies Kitchen Nightmares Ep 6 - Gordon Ramsey special guest "Love Bites" Hudson Valley Garlic Festival - 9/28—9/29/24 Cidiot is the award-winning podcast about the Hudson Valley. Host and executive producer Mat Zucker and editor Isaac Rostan. 2024 Cidiot® is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.

98. Cidiot Unwrapped (Season 6 Finale)

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 23:19:08 GMT

It's holiday time and this episode is coming to you live from Hudson Winter Walk and a live performance.

Mat closes out this amazing season of Cidiot® by sharing what he got from Spotify Unwrapped about the show as well as his own lessons and moments of which he’s proud. So lucky to have you all season. Episode 100 is coming up so be sure to send in ideas or a voicemail message wishing the show something good!

Links:

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley.

Visit ⁠⁠Cidiot.com⁠⁠ for more information, itineraries on the blog and to join the free Cidiot newsletter. ⁠Follow Cidiot on Instagram at ⁠Cidiot.hv⁠.⁠

97. Getting Fit in the HV

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 22:57:00 GMT

“Pick one exercise in every plane of motion” — Jakob Roze

Jakob is this episode’s special guest. Originally from the Catskills, schooled in Saratoga, started a business in New York, and now back upstate, we talk about moving his work here, the relationships between newcomers and locals, and play a round of the Cidiot geography game. And with winter coming on, in part three, Jakob also gives me a recommended plan, there’s mention of bone mineral density, I clarify I am not 80 but I think I have to buy some weights for winter.

Links for this episode:

RozeFit Coaching: ⁠https://rozefit.com/⁠
⁠How to Stay Motivated to Workout During the Winter⁠ (RozeFit blog)
Wildflower Farms, Gardiner, NY
Sam’s Point at Minnewaska State Preserve, Cragsmore, NY
Book: The Comfort Crisis, Michael Easter (available via Cidiot bookstore)

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley.

Visit ⁠Cidiot.com⁠ for more information, itineraries on the blog and to join the free Cidiot newsletter. Follow Cidiot on Instagram at ⁠Cidiot.hv.⁠

96. Aging in the HV

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 11:02:00 GMT

Where should we grow old? Is the Hudson Valley a good place for aging? More and more people think so. And when you find your place, how should we plan for it? How can we stay in our home? How can we get around? What kind of resources are available? Choosing to move from the city to upstate and now past 50, yeah, Cidiot® wants to know all this and more.

So Mat talks to Brian Jones of the Dutchess County Office for the Aging who debunks myths about the department (no, they don’t just send people to retirement homes) and shares info about the great resources and programs that offices like ours in Dutchess County offers. Brian has tips for successful aging and how to "stay on the upside of dirt." It’s really fun conversation, plus Brian has an awesome voice - no wonder he’ll soon be an announcer for local college sports teams. Dutchess Office for the Aging (dutchessny.gov/aging)

Tel: 845-486-2555 Links of things mentioned in the episodes:

Go Go Grandparents
Meals on Wheels
Help at Home
Rhinebeck at Home (aging in place group)
Silver Sneakers
Falls Prevention Checklist
County Calendar
Pickleball Courts (Quiet Cove)
Overmountain Conservation Area
Friendship Centers in Dutchess County
Sunwise Aging Services & Care Management

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley.

95. Bleats from Sheep & Wool

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 21:55:26 GMT

In a special spontaneous episode, Cidiot takes you live to the New York Sheep & Wool Festival at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds (October 21-22, 2023). Mat has no idea what he's looking at but luckily Rachel Zive and her partner Sam Barnett are there to guide us all through the fabric and the animals. We learn so much including advice for beginners, celebrity knitwear designers, and terms from the fiber folk community.

Links mentioned in the episode:

94. Creative in the HV

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:01:19 GMT

What makes the Hudson Valley special for creative people? This episode, Cidiot talks to Jordan Koschei about building ConnectHV, a creative “network of networks” for creative people in the Hudson Valley and Jordan’s idea of “digital terroir.” It’s about having a sense of place even for a digital network. And just as we’re building on the soil of Hudson Valley’s past, maybe the future will build on this. I think it’s the most thoughtful conversation about living in the Hudson Valley I’ve had in a long time. Tune in.

And if you’re a creative in the Hudson valley — designer, podcaster, coder, food & bev, business, anything — Jordan has a very broad definition of creative “If you’re not actively destroying thing, you’re a creative” — be sure to go to ConnectHV.com and sign up for free.

Plus we hear his favorite two places — natural and human — places in the Hudson Valley.

Links to what's mentioned in the episode:

93. The Reluctant Gardener - Part 2

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:02:13 GMT

Mat gives an update on the gardening project, including flowers vs. vegetables competition. Though his voice notes, you probably get too close to the amateur he is and the struggles he faces — not to mention the neglect he embodies.

Links to what’s mentioned in the episode:

Sam’s video on how to properly weed (YouTube)
Stark Blooms (Instagram)
Photos of before and after weeding (Instagram)

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley. Visit ⁠Cidiot.com⁠ for more information, itineraries on the blog and to join the free Cidiot newsletter. Follow Cidiot on Instagram at ⁠Cidiot.hv.⁠

92. Stationery

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:01:29 GMT

Upstate, living in a small town, I pop into all my favorite spots all the time. I try to always buy something but I’m also a bit of a gossip and always want to know what’s new. People ask about the show, and several people have been on it as you know. This episode of Cidiot®, you’ll meet a favorite store-owner-new friend Marie of Red Hook Stationery Co. in the Village of Red Hook, NY. Her store is my new favorite place to get gifts, paper or cards and you’ll know why when you tune into this episode and get to know her and her story. Plus, you’ll hear how she and her husband finally bought their house.

And for Cidiot listeners, Marie has a special discount of 15% of any one item at Red Hook Stationery Co. through October 2023. Certain exclusions may apply.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley. Visit Cidiot.com for more information, itineraries on the blog and to join the free Cidiot newsletter. Follow Cidiot on Instagram at Cidiot.hv.

Photo: Red Hook Stationery Co.

91. Ambassador Cidiot

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:00:48 GMT

Do you love where you live? Mat sure does. Already a champion, advocate, even a shill for people moving to the Hudson Valley, Mat takes it to the next level by becoming a Certified Tourist Ambassador in Dutchess County. In this Cidiot® episode, you'll hear about the experience as well as advice for visiting from two other 'graduates.' Plus, there's a un/related story about a spider!

Beacon (from Nicole)

Dover Plains (from Dawn)

Dutchess Tourism (from Melaine)

Thank you for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about learning to live and love life in the Hudson Valley. Visit Cidiot.com for more information, itineraries on the blog and to join the free Cidiot newsletter. Follow Cidiot on Instagram at Cidiot.hv.

2023. Cidiot is a registered trademark.

90. Upstate Art Weekend

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:01:35 GMT

After missing it last year, Mat explores the big annual event that is Upstate Art Weekend. More than 130 artists participate across the Hudson Valley, including Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties. Mat shares the differences between culture in the city versus the country and talks to a New York-based artist, Lauren Cohen at “Brian’s Yard Sale.” It’s hilarious. Artists and galleries mentioned in this episode:

Upstate Art Weekend website

Judith Pfaff Foundation in Tivoli, NY

“Stories of the Post-Natural” curated by Art Works of Change (Randy Jayne Rosenberg, Bonny Lebowitz and Belén Millan)

Available Items in Tivoli, NY

“Shelf Life” (artist Laurene Leon Boym)

Mother-in-Laws gallery in Germantown, NY

“Brian’s Yard Sale” by Lauren Cohen
“Darkening Skies” curated by Front Room Gallery (artists Pamela Longobardi and Susan Knipperberg)

More recommended art galleries in the area:

Pinkwater Gallery, Kingston NY (as featured in Episode 78)
Equis Art Gallery, Red Hook NY
Verse Workshop, Red Hook NY
Tivoli Artists Gallery, Tivoli NY
Front Room Gallery, Hudson NY

Cidiot® is the award-winning Hudson Valley podcast. Sign up for the newsletter and subscribe to episodes on your favorite platform via Cidiot.com. Come visit.

89. Bimi's Canteen in Chatham

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 11:04:07 GMT

Why do we move here? To either open—or eat at—restaurants like Bimi's. And live in—or visit—towns like Chatham. This episode is about Bimi's Canteen and Bar, about Ellen & Chris, about a deliciously quaint village called Chatham, NY. Cidiot visits Bimi's, hears the story, the backstory and visits the restaurant and the downstairs speakeasy. As you'll hear from Ellen, the story of Bimi’s is heartwarming, their journey up here is illuminating, she has advice for people opening a business, why Bimi’s is celiac safe, plus she’ll share her favorite places in the Hudson Valley as well. And if you’re thinking of planning a weekend to Chatham, on the Cidiot Farm Fresh blog you’ll find the first in a new series of Cidiot Weekender Itineraries —ideas for 72 hours or a weekend in Chatham. Thanks to Ellen & Chris for helping me put it together. And stop by Bimi's Canteen & Bar, where if you mention Cidiot, between now and September 30th, you may get treated to a glass of bubbly! Cidiot® is the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley and just loving it. Come visit. Links for this episode: Chatham: Bimi's Canteen ⁠Village of Chatham⁠ Fahari Bazaar Columbia Land Conservancy Trails Ben Gable Savories Gentle Time Farm Grimaldi Farm The Blue Plate Crandall Theatre Chatham Brewing The Shaker Museum Kinderhook Farm Samscott Orchards, Kinderhook, NY Hawks Roost Farm, East Chatham, NY Beyond: Six Depot Coffee, West Stockbridge Four Fat Fowl, Stephentown, NY Lost Lamb Bakery, Stockbridge, MA Gaskins, Germantown, NY Rivertown Lodge, Hudson, NY The Stage Coach Inn at Race Brook Lodge, Sheffield, CT Gedney Farm, New Marlborough, MA

88. Green Thumb - Part I

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:49:30 GMT

Mat finally takes up gardening but in the safety and security of an adopted small garden plot at Four Corners Community Farm. It's a learning experience for sure, so join him via his audio journal as he tries to grow vegetables vs. flowers.

Links:

Four Corners Community Farm

Old Dutch Village Gardening Club

Garden Pals

National Garden Association

Thanks for listening to Cidiot®, the Hudson Valley's most awarded podcast. Would love to hear from you about what you would love to hear about so write in at Cidiot.com and review the show while you're there. Come visit.

87. Cheese Please

Thu, 11 May 2023 11:12:07 GMT

This episode is all about cheese. Who doesn't love it?

To answer them all, Cidiot interviews Lauren Cunningham-Housman, owner of The Corner Counter, a new cheese and provisions shop in Red Hook, NY.

Lauren worked for years with iconic cheese purveyor Murray's Cheese in New York City, and combining her business school education and her experience in (and love of) cheese, built a plan to open her own shop. I ask her how she chose the Hudson Valley, about her journey from intern to opening her own business. I also ask about geography. Is the Hudson Valley special for cheese? And how should one buy cheese? What should I bring to a dinner party? Can we eat the rind? What’s her desert island cheese? This episode is a cidiot primer on cheese, including “affenage” — day care for cheese and facts about cheese you might not know such as there are just four ingredients in cheese, and ideas I never thought about like the seasonality of cheeses.

Tune in to learn, taste with your ears and have a laugh. Plus, for a limited time as part of the grand opening, Lauren is offering Cidiot listeners 10% off cheese and charcuterie when you use the secret code GOATS at checkout.

Links to things mentioned in the episode:

Episode 15: Town for Sale
The Corner Counter, Red Hook, NY
Talbott & Arding, Hudson, NY
Cheese Louise, Kingston, NY
Montgomery Place, Red Hook, NY

Thanks for listening. Please rate and review Cidiot in the Apple or Spotify podcast stores or simply leave us a review directly through Cidiot.com. Cidiot® is a production and registered trademark of ©2019-2023 Mat Zucker Communications. Come visit.

86. Route 9 - Albany Post Road

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 11:02:28 GMT

Sometimes the show takes you to new places, and sometimes the way to get there is the destination. U.S. Route 9 is historic—for much of the portion in New York State, it's The Albany Post Road. Join Cidiot® for a very personal driving tour from Poughkeepsie to Kinderhook with sites, stops and history along the way. Be sure to see the surviving markers, a system developed by Ben Franklin, including the iconic 100-mile marker in Rhinebeck.

Below are some of the places mentioned w/links for more info.

Poughkeepsie to Hyde Park:

Staatsburgh to Rhinebeck:

River & Post restaurant
Mills Mansion (Staatsburgh State Historical Site)
Habitas on Hudson
Patty’s Pet Palace
The Beekman Arms
Le Petit Bistro
Samuels Sweet Shop
Oblong Books (book recommendations on Episode 77)
Rhinebeck Farmer’s Market
100 Mile Marker (picture on Cidiot Instagram)
Northern Dutchess Hospital
Co. coworking
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

Red Hook:

Maizeland (Van Ness House)
Taste Budd’s Cafe
Annabelle’s Village Bake Shop
The Corner Counter
Localvore
Historic Village Diner (The Halfway Diner)
The Elmendorph Inn
Rose Hill Farm
Greig Farm
Lasting Joy Brewery

Clermont to Claverack:

Claverack to Hudson:

85. Camp Catskill

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 11:02:38 GMT

Welcome to Season 6 of Cidiot®!

I'm excited to talk about 700,000 acre-big Catskill Park, "America's First Wilderness," with Ryan Penny, owner of Camp Catskill in Tannersville, NY.

In two parts, we'll cover what drew Ryan to the Catskills, about starting his store in Tannersville, spotting a cidiot, and about Catskill Park, including his four favorite spots "inside the blue line." We also get into Kaaterskill Falls and the controversy of its claim as the tallest waterfall in New York state. We also talk about micro spikes, crampons and how I shouldn’t wear my Stan Smiths into waterfalls. In part two, we cover culture, including the story and connection of Rip Van Winkle. You'll want to wake up for this.

Be sure to check out these links:

Tannersville: Cidiot Guide to 5 Places To Visit Nearby (on the Cidiot.com blog)
Camp Catskill store (Use promo code CIDIOT10 for 10% off. For a limited time.)
Episode 55: Hike Your Own Hike (with Sean of Mountain-Hiking.com)

Cidiot® is a registered trademark, hosted and produced by Mat Zucker. Visit Cidiot.com for more info including sponsorship and partnership opportunities. Original music created by Space Studios.

84. And It Worked (Season 5 Finale)

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 20:04:01 GMT

Cidiot closes out Season 5—the show's biggest yet—with reflections on what worked and what's ahead.

Thank you for making Cidiot one of the Hudson Valley's biggest and most loved shows. Stay warm catching up on past episodes and watching the Cidiot anthem video, available here, via Cidiot.com, and on YouTube.

Thank you for our sponsors and partners this season, including El Sueco and the Don, Greig Farm, Hudson Valley Kitchen Design Center, Hudson Community Incubator, Taconic Toastmasters Club, Sunflower Market in Woodstock and Rhinebeck, and Scot Hastie of Pardee's Agency (A World Company).

Thank you to all the guests this season, including Ben Senterfit and Paul Rivers Bailey, Andrew Addotta, Allison Chawla, Jeremy Franson and Sandra Franson, Emily Sachar, Osun Zotique, Robinson Greig, Elizabeth Sobol, Mary Howard and four other Taconic Toastmasters, Diane Parisella, Kathy Stevens, Brett Barry, Suzanna Hermans, Amy Zimmerman, Amanda Stromoski, Kendra Sinclair and Jared Vengrin, Alissa Hessler, Anne Sanger and Amy Krane.

Cidiot 's new season begins March 2023. Would love hear your ideas and comments and please rate & review the show at Cidiot.com or on Apple Podcasts. Stay in touch via Cidiot.com, join the newsletter and follow on Instagram. And come visit.

83. Country Colors

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 12:01:48 GMT

I love color. I’m fascinated by color. I have questions. Amy Krane is an architectural color consultant as well as a real estate broker. And get this: she has her own podcast on color called Let’s Talk (Paint) Color with colleague Amy Woolf.

On this episode in three fun, chatty parts, Amy and I talk about her journey upstate (she’s not a newbie) and then becoming a color consultant and then into my thousand questions about color especially for rural homes, historical homes - starting with why are barns red - or as you’ll hear Falun Red - and what about painting your outbuildings the same color as your house? And then she surprises with what color was researched to paint your front door for $6,000 more in resale value. You’ll also hear about her philosophy called “Fit In, Stand Out.”

Part 1: About Amy’s Journey
Part 2: Mat’s Color Questions
Part 3: Mistakes to Avoid and Hudson Valley Favorites

Thanks for listening to Cidiot®. Until December 22nd, you can help change history by voting for Cidiot for Listener's Choice in the prestigious Signal Awards in the Lifestyle category. Currently one of six finalists and gunning for gold.

Amy’s Links:

Company site - AmyKraneColor.com
Let’s Talk (Paint) Color Podcast

81. Reclaimed

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 12:02:00 GMT

Meet a couple who makes a leap, not just in moving upstate, but by restoring a motel. Cidiot talks to Kendra Sinclair and Jared Vengrin who have just opened the Reclaimed Motel in Red Hook in Dutchess County, New York. Jared grew up here, met Kendra in college and now they’ve together been lovingly updating this motel along the Albany Post Road with a view of the Catskills. With fantasies of being Moira from Schitt’s Creek and furnishing it with vintage items within a 20-mile radius, they’ve designed it with a nod to 1960s motor lodge experience, including fun, comfortable and groovy. Hear about their experience, why they made the choice, motel history featuring Robert Redford, and some advice about visiting the Hudson Valley in the winter months including maple tapping!

Thanks Kendra and Jared for the special offer.

Reclaimed Motel is offering Cidiot listeners 10% off on your first stay. Just enter CIDIOT in your reservation form.

Links mentioned:

Reclaimed motel: Site | Instagram (@reclaimedmotel)
New York State Small Business Development Center
From Wreck to Reno (The Daily Catch)

Thank you Sunflower Market, with stores in Woodstock and Rhinebeck, for supporting Cidiot. Long.Live.Local.

80. Little Critters

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:02:34 GMT

It seemed like a giant beehive was in our willow. Or was it? What should a cidiot do anyway? This episode is about the little critters that fill our lives—and our properties—in the Hudson Valley. Bees, wasps, bats, snakes, spiders, chipmunks, frogs, beavers—and more. Tune in for an education and a giggle.

Links:

Beaverland, Leila Philip (new book!)
Beekeeping in the Hudson Valley and Catskills
Episode 78 Brett Barry shares his snake (and bear) stories
Pestmasters Blog
Spotted Laternfly (Scenic Hudson)
Rethinking the Humble Beaver (Scenic Hudson)

Sponsors:

Sunflower Market (Woodstock, Rhinebeck)

Photo: Brett Barry of Kaatscast podcast

79. Urban Exodus

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 10:46:33 GMT

Let's talk more broadly about this movement to the country and the experience for each of us. I speak to artist and photographer Alissa Hessler, founder of Urban Exodus, a project and podcast. She is also author of Ditch The City and Go Country: How to Master the Art of Rural Life From a Former City Dweller, which is how I first found out about her. You can already tell she's a role model for me.

From her studio in Maine, Alissa talks about her move to the country, what she's learned, the impact on her life, the stories she's chronicled in others, advice for you, and of course about the Hudson Valley. We also start to get our heads around winter coming and what she does to get through and thrive in it. Spoiler: canning and a dance party!

Links to what's mention in the episode:

Urban Exodus (blog)
Urban Exodus (podcast)
Ditch The City and Go Country: How to Master the Art of Rural Life From a Former City Dweller (book)
Cidiot Bookshelf (on bookshop.org)

Related episodes:

Thanks to our sponsor Sunflower Market with stores in Woodstock and Rhinebeck. Sunflower is devoted to deepening symbiotic relationships through clean and sustainably sourced food. Visit their site and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

78. Pinkwater

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 10:49:26 GMT

When you think of art in the Hudson Valley, your head probably goes to the Hudson Valley School and the river, mountains and landscapes of Thomas Cole and Frederick Edwin Church. You know, dead old white men.

Anne Sanger runs the Pinkwater Gallery in uptown Kingston. She’s an artist and her gallery focuses on women artists of the Hudson Valley. We talk about her journey to the Hudson Valley, taking a wrong turn—or was it a right turn—and becoming an artist. We also chat about the types of artists she represents and the etiquette and advice for newbies like me shopping for art. Yes, you can sometimes borrow it!

Thanks to our sponsor Sunflower Market with locations in Woodstock and Rhinebeck. Sunflower is devoted to deepening symbiotic relationships through clean and sustainably sourced food. Visit their site and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Pinkwater Guide to Art in the Kingston Area:

GALLERIES IN KINGSTON

In Uptown / the Stockade:

In Midtown:

Monument

In the Rondout / the Strand:

On Route 28 (between Kingston and Woodstock):

The Lockwood Gallery

FALL LEAF PEEPING + ART

Art OMI in Ghent
Storm King in the lower Hudson Valley near Windsor
Opus 40 in Saugerties

Annual Art Events in Kingston

Art Instruction for Adults

77. The (Other) Best Regional Podcast

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 11:02:45 GMT

In a special cross-over in honor of International Podcast Day, Cidiot talks to this year’s winner of the Chronogrammie for regional podcast (we got runner-up!) Brett of Kaatscast podcast. It’s no wonder he won. A pro in audio with a very handsome voice and a public radio style podcast, Brett has recording more than 60 episodes of Kaatscast as well as audiobooks and driving tours of the Catskills.

Recorded outside at Ole Savannah’s in Kingston on the water, we talk about how working in audio leads to producing driving tours of the Catskills and his award-winning podcast (!) and we also compare the Catskills and the Hudson Valley and talk about bears and snakes. Ick.

Be sure to also tune into Brett’s interview of Mat on his new episode of Kaatscast.

Links

Kaatscast podcast
Brett’s scenic tours (free) of the Catskills at Drive28.com
North South Lake (Tannersville)
Dibbels Quarry
The Best Rural & Regional Podcasts (Cidot.com blog)

76. Hudson Valley Bookshelf

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:01:29 GMT

If you love books, you’ll love this episode. Cidiot gets local, pro recommendations from Oblong Books in Millerton and Rhinebeck, The Chatham Bookstore in Chatham, Rough Draft Bar & Books in Kingston, and several Cidiot listeners. Links here and on the episode page on Cidiot.com

Books mentioned:

One Hundred Miles From Manhattan, Guillermo Fesser (memoir)
The Rural Life, Verlyn Klinkenborg (memoir)
This Poison Heart, Kalynn Bayron (novel)
Please Wait To Be Tasted: L’il Debs Oasis Cookbook (cookbook)
The Blade Between, Sam J. Miller (novel)
Elegy For An Appetite, Shaina Lowe-Banayan (memoir)
Diamond Street, Bruce Edward Hall (history)
The Story of Historic Kingston, Stephen Blauweiss and Karen Berelowitz
Our Country Friends, Gary Shteyngart (novel)
A Ship Made of Paper, Scott Spence (novel)
Fifty Acres and a Poodle, Jeanne Marie Laska (memoir)
Country Matters: The Pleasures and Tribulations of Moving from a Big City to an Old Country Farmhouse, Michael Kora (memoir)
Typecast, Andrea J. Stein (novel)

Bookshops:

Cidiot bookshop (Bookshop.org)
Oblong Books (Rhinebeck and Millerton)
Rough Draft Bar & Books (Kingston)
The Chatham Bookstore (Chatham):
Golden Notebook (Woodstock)
Inquiring Minds (Saugerties)
Magpie Bookshop (Catskill)
Spotty Dog (Hudson)
Half Moon Books - used (Kingston)
Merritt Bookstore (Millbrook)
H.A.S. Beane Books - used (Red Hook)
Hobart Book Village (Hobart)
The Bookloft (Great Barrington, MA)
Rodgers Book Barn (Hillsdale)

Other:

Murders in the Hudson Valley Podcast (Apple)

Welcome new sponsor: Sunflower Market, with stores in Rhinebeck and Woodstock, is devoted to deepening symbiotic relationships through clean and sustainably sourced food. Visit their site, follow on Facebook & Instagram.

75. Sanctuary

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 11:01:10 GMT

A big part of why we love the Hudson Valley and Catskills is because of the farms and the animals. In this awesome, moving, eye-opening, and hilarious episode, you’ll meet the fabulous Kathy Stevens and hear how Catskill Animal Sanctuary in Saugerties got started and its mission.

You’ll learn about Noodles, a blind horse named Buddy, and a cow named Tucker, what Kathy calls 'random acts of callousness' and about the Underfoot Family.

“The tours change people,” Kathy explains.

You’ll also get advice on how to engage with animals on a tour (i.e., take your sunglasses off, sit down, don’t make a loud sound), CAS's unique programming, and why and how to volunteer. We find a job for Mat. And yes, yes, yes, Kathy and I will together make animal sounds.

Catskill Animal Sanctuary website (donate, volunteer, programming)
Herd Around The Barn podcast (Kathy's award-winning show)

Welcome new sponsor: Sunflower Market, with stores in Rhinebeck and Woodstock, is devoted to deepening symbiotic relationships through clean and sustainably sourced food. Visit their site and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Past episodes on animals:

74. Summer Break

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:39:00 GMT

Super-short episode today while Cidiot prepares for a big, big, big fall sprint of shows starting September. Very excited and a new sponsor coming too.

Get on the free Cidiot newsletter to not miss a thing!
Cidiot Anthem (Audio only): Apple Music, Spotify, Soundcloud
Cidiot Anthem (Video): YouTube

Plan ahead for fall with the Cidiot Guide to 2022 Fall Festivals on the Cidiot.com blog.

73. Happy Fourth Birthday!

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 11:03:37 GMT

Four years since the show debuted! What a good time for a State of the Cidiot. In this special episode, Mat reflects on what Cidiot has accomplished so far along with birthday messages from several listeners, including Mark, Katie, Allison, Irwin, Adam—and of course superfan Leslie, Mat's mom.

Thanks for supporting and enjoying Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about life in the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Berkshires.

A few things you can do to make this birthday special:

Rate and review Cidiot on Apple podcasts or via Cidiot.com.
Sign up for the free Cidiot newsletter.
Shop for merch and books through Cidiot.com.

Other links:

Talk to Allison, Radio Free Rhinecliff (Apple link)

72. Flatlanders

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 11:01:27 GMT

Is there an equivalent for cidiots in Maine? Yes, there is! In fact, Mainers have their own dictionary of phrases, which I was excited to learn on our two-week vacation. It got me thinking about doing nothing and doing everything. I'll share my update on our to-do list, and Robinson Greig will send in an update from Greig Farm.

71. Mayors of the Mall

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 11:46:26 GMT

Newburgh is one of the oldest towns in New York State and frequently talked about as a city coming around. Cidiot spoke to Diane Parisella, who with her business partner Lisa Morgan, own Designed Grind Cafe at the Newburgh Mall and started The Newburgh Market, held on Sundays from April through the end of October in the mall parking lot 10 am-3 pm. Hear about the market, their business, what's coming to the mall, her favorite places in the Hudson Valley, and more on Newburgh itself.

Stop by Designed Grind Cafe and tell 'em Cidiot sent you, and get 10% off a delicious coffee.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot and our sponsors Hudson Valley Kitchen Design Center and Taconic Toastmasters Club. Follow Cidiot on Instagram (@cidot.hv) and subscribe to the free newsletter on the home page at Cidiot.com.

70. Toastmasters Teach

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 12:00:48 GMT

I asked our new sponsors at Taconic Toastmasters Club to help me be a better presenter on air for you. They went through a few of my episodes and tell me what I'm doing right—and maybe could be better. I'm a believer in self-improvement and I'll take a few tips wherever I can get them. Including about owls.

Want to develop and polish communication and leadership skills in a fun, friendly, supportive environment? Join Taconic Toastmasters Club at their next meeting at the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, 1 North Front St, Hudson, NY (Use rear entrance). The club meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 5:30 PM. See their website.

Follow Cidiot on Instagram and please send a birthday message to Cidiot.com. Just click on the microphone in the corner and mention your name and a favorite episode. By July 1 if you can. You can also subscribe for free to the Cidiot newsletter. Thanks.

69. Saratoga

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 12:02:00 GMT

Let's go further north. Health. History. Horses. And culture. Cidiot has a one-on-one conversation with Elizabeth Sobol, President and CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). You’ll hear about Elizabeth’s journey to leading SPAC, her discovery and full on love of Saratoga, what’s on this season, from jazz to the ballet — plus a delicious innovation “Choreographer’s Feast “ — dancers do eat! And in part three, Elizabeth shares her recommended itinerary of where to go for a weekend in Saratoga.

Thanks to Elizabeth and SPAC, Cidiot is giving away two tickets to "Voice and the Violin" with Joshua Bell & Larisa Martinez, performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra on Friday, July 29, 2022. What’s your cidiot story? Send it in for your chance to win. Details on how to enter on the episode 69 page at Cidiot.com. Deadline is Friday, June 24th at midnight EST.

68. Strawberries

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 11:00:05 GMT

It's strawberry season! Yes, I can't eat them sadly, but you probably can happily. In this special episode, breaking from our usual schedule, hear directly from Robinson Greig at Greig Farm on best practices of what to look for and how to pick them.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about moving to the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Berkshires. Subscribe to the newsletter and follow us on Instagram.

Photo courtesy of Greig Farm.

67. Pride Is Back

Thu, 26 May 2022 11:50:22 GMT

Pride starts early in June across the Hudson Valley, Catskills and Berkshires. This episode I talk to Osun Zotique, executive director of OutHudson and the co-grand marshal of Hudson Pride. If you’re following the news, you may have also seen that Osun just announced a historic run for congress to represent the new 19th district. To their knowledge, Osun is the first trans non-binary candidate to run for national office. Learn more at OsunforNY.com.

Osun and I talk about pride in the Hudson Valley, about Hudson (“the P-town of the Hudson Valley”), about LGBTQ contribution to the upstate’s community, economy and culture. Osun also teaches me about “forest bathing” and how this year’s Pride is an opportunity to take that COVID Stickiness and well, dance it out…

Find Pride events mentioned in this episode and many others on the Cidiot.com blog post and follow Cidiot on Instagram.

Thank for listening. And special thank you as well to show sponsors Hudson Valley Kitchen Design Center and Taconic Toastmasters Club.

Photo credit: JD Urban. Provided by OutHudson.

66. Spring To Do List

Thu, 12 May 2022 12:00:48 GMT

Is it a chore or a passion? This episode of Cidiot we go through seasonal to-do lists, from Mat, from listeners—and from a special guest Robinson Greig of Greig Farm. No one has a longer—or more daunting list—than a farmer.

If updating your kitchen, bathrooms and pantry is on your to-do list (it's on ours!), then you're in luck since a new sponsor of Cidiot is Hudson Valley Kitchen Design Center. For Cidiot listeners, just mention the podcast to save $500 off a project of $5,000 or more. See recent projects and fun on Instagram @hvkitchendesigncenter, visit their site at hvkitchendesign.com or call 845-615-9410 about a consultation.

Thanks for making Cidiot the best regional podcast in 2021 Chronogrammies. Voting is finishing up for 2022 and Cidiot is a finalist, so excited to see how the show does again. Get on the mailing list at Cidiot.com and follow Cidiot.hv on Instagram to stay current.

65. The Daily Catch

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 11:20:05 GMT

Some of the most important news is local. Mat interviews Emily Sachar, publisher and editor of The Daily Catch. She shares her journey from a newspaper reporter (including an internship under Bob Woodward at The Washington Post), to an art historian and then starting The Daily Catch in Red Hook, NY. We hear about the stories of which she's proudest, behind the scenes of the Daily Catch's Ukraine coverage, what it takes to produce a daily paper, about just doing "the next right thing," and more. And when asked the signature question of her favorite place in the Hudson Valley or Berkshires, Emily brings Cidiot an exclusive!

Cidiot is up for best regional podcast in the Arts & Entertainment category of the 2022 Chronogrammies. Please vote and get other ideas from Episode 64 "A Cidiot's Ballot," or via the blog post on Cidiot.com.

Welcome new sponsors Taconic Toastmasters Club and Hudson Valley Kitchen Design Center. Lucky to have you.

64. A Cidiot's Ballot

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 12:00:00 GMT

The Chronogrammies weren't always reader's choice, but luckily they are now. This episode, Mat reviews Chronogram magazine's 3rd Annual Chronogrammies finalists category by category with his picks for your vote—and why. From Arts & Entertainment and Retail to Nature & Outdoors, Shelter, Health & Wellness, and even People. You'll hear his top picks including Adams Fairacre Farms, Ashokan Resevoir, Bangallworks, Clermont, Citiot, Giobatta, Graham & Co., Greig Farm, Oblong Books, Olana Historic Site, Pause Dog Boutique, Rough Draft Bar & Books, WKZE and Woodstock Meats. See the blog post with the full ballot at Cidiot.com.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, 2021 Chronogrammie Winner of Best Regional Podcast. You can vote now and every day April 1-May 15 with just an email address at Chronogram.com under Chronogrammies. Excited for this vote and this season. Come visit.

63. Comfort & Joy

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Whether you consider cottage core a movement or a stylish trend, it’s a connection to the past. I talk about what it means to me, including its form in Jello-molds. I also talk to Jeremy Franson and Sandra Franson, who run Comfort & Joy - Family Heritage for Today. We talk about their connection to the Hudson Valley, visiting Grammy Joy in Rhinebeck (they called it “Regular Town”), living on a farm, chamber pots, and about tradition—and why it’s important to keep it. We also get a primer in Women’s Suffrage Movement history for Jeremy’s twin sister Joelle, which is timely during Women’s History Month.

Here are some helpful links to things mentioned in the episode:

"Cottagecore: The Whimsical Trend That May Just Help Your Mental Health" (Healthline)

Comfort & Joy - Family Heritage for Today: Send in recipes and stories to heritage@comfortandjoys.com or use the form at the website.

Learn about Workshop Experience Weekend May 7-8 at workshopexperience.org and see my Podcasting 101 workshop on Saturday at 1-3:30 p.m. There’s also a blog post about it on Cidiot.com, as well as the beginning of a new guide to where to stay in the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Berkshires. Would love additions, comments and suggested edits to make it more useful.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot made the final round again for 2022 Chronogrammies Regional Podcast in the Arts & Entertainment category. Voting begins April 1 if you can please help out.

62. A Little Therapy

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 16:00:00 GMT

This episode is about managing stress and the proven science of the great outdoors being good for you. I also talk to Allison Chawla, host of Talk to Allison on Radio Free Rhinecliff as well as a psychotherapist, healer, and coach. We talk about change, giving up what is comfortable, about the artistic hamlet of Rhinecliff, parenting, moving up here from the city, newfound diversity, foraging—and keeping a knife under her bed in fear of the silence.

In other news, Cidiot made the finals for 2022 Chronogrammies Best Regional Podcast, so get ready to vote in April.

61. Floridiot

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 12:16:00 GMT

Cidiot is about being new in and acclimating to country life. So what happens if you, say, move to south Florida for a few months and try to fit in there. In this special episode, you'll find out. Mat shares his eight observations comparing life in Florida to the Hudson Valley, including a guest voice: his brother-in-law's brother-in-law Irwin Levy, who is active in the East Hampton Trails Preservation Society. Tune in for some laughs and, of course, warmth.Be sure to stream the new Cidiot anthem on Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Hamilton & Adams is offering 15% off at their new online store for fans of the show. Just use the code: CIDIOT. And sign up for the Cidiot mailing list and get more info about the show, becoming a sponsor, and the Hudson Valley, Catskill Mountains, Berkshires, and rural living at Cidiot.com

60. Upstate & Chill

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 13:05:02 GMT

Maybe you’ve seen the t-shirt. Maybe you own it. I do. “Upstate & Chill” is a trademark saying from Hamilton & Adams, a cool and beloved retailer for men and women in Kingston, NY. For me, it perfectly captures the spirit of moving to the Hudson Valley so much so that it’s a lyric in our Cidiot anthem. In this second episode of Season 5, I interview Andrew Addotta of Hamilton & Adams about his path up here, opening a business, and more. We play Hudson Valley geography, and he also shares his favorite spot, not to mention a cidiot hiking story.

Special treat for Cidiot listeners: Get 15% off at Hamilton & Adams new web site. Use code CIDIOT. https://hamiltonandadams.com/discount/CIDIOT

Also, be sure to download the Cidiot anthem, created with El Seuco and The Don of Space Studios in Red Hook on Spotify, Apple Music, Soundcloud, and more. Links available through the music page at Cidiot.com.

Photo: James J. Reddington

59. Music To Your Ears (Season 5 Premiere)

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 10:09:42 GMT

Cidiot® is back, turning up the volume with a bigger-than-ever Season Five. Four years and 58 episodes have taught Mat a thing or two, plus the listener survey piled up the advice to make this season five-u-lous. We're starting off big, with the a full-play of the new Cidiot Anthem, produced with El Sueco and The Don at Space Studios here in Red Hook. The photo is by Tasha Hurley and we were generously outfitted by Hamilton & Adams in Kingston, NY, who thought we did justice to their "Upstate & Chill" aesthetic.

Listen up for a full play of the song and the backstory in our interview with Ben Senterfit and Paul Rivers Bailey. You'll hear their backstory, how they met through Community Music Space in Red Hook, their favorite places in the Hudson Valley, the process of creating the song, what we each hope to achieve, and of course, why the two of them are called El Sueco and The Don.

Find links to the Cidiot Anthem at the music page on Cidiot.com and more about El Sueco and The Don at their site.

58. June Farms in December (Season 4 Finale)

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:55:52 GMT

I don't think we've talked this season enough about cows. So, to close out the year and season four, meet Matt Baumgartner. Matt owns June Farms near Albany as well as the Troy Beer Garden, the Berlin Lounge, the Olde English Pub, and Wolf’s Biergarten in Syracuse. We talk about his story, being an entrepreneur, how he started June Farms, about the animals—how pigs are smarter than cows—and you’ll even learn the funny story behind the farm's name.

Thanks for tuning into Cidiot this season, for helping it grow even more, including the win as best regional podcast in the 2021 Chronogrammies. In the mean time, please visit the new Cidiot.com, where you can subscribe to the Cidiot email list for news about the song release in late January, shop, read the blog, rate the show, and, yes, Season 5 planning is already underway. Be sure to also follow the show on Instagram.

57. Contain Yourself

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 20:55:49 GMT

Sometimes life comes full circle. This episode, Mat interviews Lori Greenberg and Sarah Goldberg from The Container House in Tivoli, NY, coincidentally (or is it?) owned by a recruiter and business owner from Mat's past. The Container House is an awesome structure designed by Arnaud Cornillon as a model for sustainable living and where Greenberg is building a community for creative people.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about moving from the city to the Hudson Valley. Visit the all-new Cidiot.com to join the mailing list, rate and review the show, shop the Cidiot store, follow us on Instagram. And please send your questions about being a Cidiot to goats@cidiot.com. They might make my new advice column in The Red Hook Daily Catch on Fridays: “Ask a Cidiot.”

56. Grab Your Wingman

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 18:45:54 GMT

Meet Kimberlie Dykeman, a Rhinebeck native, who runs Wingman, a personal concierge and estate management business in the Hudson Valley. She and I cover what’s changed, why she started her business, advice for new homeowners, how to treat vendors that come in and out of your house, her favorite spots, and some unique requests she's gotten over the years. Thanks for helping making Cidiot winner of the 2021 Chronogrammies for best regional podcast. Visit Cidiot.com for more info and to shop the store, follow the show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, read the "Ask a Cidiot" column in The Red Hook Daily Catch. Now you can also sign up on the Cidiot mailing list and get show perks including Kimberlie's house manual template when it's ready.

55. Hike Your Own Hike

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:28:35 GMT

What’s the rush with hiking? What's the difference between a walk and a hike? This episode, Mat talks to Sean O’Dwyer, who runs Mountain-Hiking.com, a popular blog for Catskills, Hudson Highlands, Adirondacks and beyond. You’ll hear what Sean loves about mountain hiking, where to go, advice for bears, a warning about radios, how to be a good citizen on a mountain, and why Reese’s Pieces should sponsor him.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about moving from the city to the Hudson Valley. Visit Cidiot.com to join the mailing list, rate and review the show, shop the Cidiot store, follow us on Instagram. And please send your questions about being a Cidiot to goats@cidiot.com. They might make my new advice column in The Red Hook Daily Catch on Fridays: “Ask a Cidiot.”

54. Fall Forward

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 16:59:38 GMT

Fall is a season of things dying to be reborn. In the thick of Fall and facing the reality of Winter, Mat makes an argument for planting seeds now that you want to bloom later. Special shoutout to the new podcast from Lindsay Shute and Michelle Hughes called KOLRHABI.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot, the award-winning podcast about moving from the city to the Hudson Valley. Visit Cidiot.com to join the mailing list, rate and review the show, shop the Cidiot store, follow us on Instagram and more. And please send your questions about being a Cidiot to goats@cidiot.com. They might make my new advice column in The Red Hook Daily Catch on Fridays: “Ask a Cidiot.”

53. Lessons from a County Legislator

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 22:12:52 GMT

The county is the “arms” of the state government, notes Rebecca Edwards, Dutchess County legislator (Town of Poughkeepsie) and Democratic minority leader. In this special episode, Edwards talks to Cidiot about why local elections matter, what our county government tackles, Dutches County as a microcosm of America, some trend-setting activities in nearby counties, the role of committees, what’s on the ballot this fall, how to stay current with what's happening—and her favorite spots. Here's also some additional links for: absentee voting and how to apply for an absentee ballot; info from the Dutchess County Board of Elections; and how Dutchess County residents can find who represents them.

Thanks or listening. Cidiot is 2021 Chronogrammie winner for best regional podcast and the 2021 Award of Excellence for Podcasting - Society & Culture in the Communicator Awards. You can still rate and review Cidiot for your chance at a free trucker cap and tune in for more this season.

52. Citiot

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 15:14:50 GMT

That's not a typo.

That's the other spelling of Cidiot. Join me for this three-year birthday episode as I share Cidiot's early brand foundation, the story behind the logo, and an interview with Pim Zeegers, who just opened the fabulous Citiot store in Catskill, NY. Hear his take on our shared word, his story as a double outsider, about his business, and how you can get a taste of stropwafel.

Plus, I've started a new idea from my brother-in-law Adam: asking guests their favorite (secret) places in the Hudson Valley. Thanks for listening. Cidiot® was voted best regional podcast in the 2021 Chronogrammies and is a go-to source by national and regional press. You can still buy a Cidiot trucker cap with the iconic baby goat logo. Visit cidiot.com for links as well as info on sponsorships and partnerships. Come visit.

51. Born in the HVA

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 15:41:31 GMT

Meet Josh Santonja, who helped run Pugsly's Hudson location and has become both a barber and friend to me, my husband, father-in-law, and several friends. He's kind of a cult favorite. Josh also grew up in the Hudson Valley and has lived in multiple towns in the areas which only made me want to talk to him more about it all. We even debut a new game on the show called "Hudson Valley Geography." Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Lucky to be chosen as Best Regional Podcast in the 2021 Chorogrammie Awards. Also, my book Bronze Seeks Silver is now out on audiobook. Here's a link to through Audible program if you want to subscribe with my code.

50. Hudson River Lighthouses

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 00:49:10 GMT

There are seven remaining lighthouses on the Hudson River. Come with me as we learn about them, their purpose, their vocabulary, and a few stories. We're very lucky to also get some background and history directly from Sarah Wassberg Johnson of the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Thanks for listening to Cidiot, a podcast by Mat Zucker. Winner of Chronogram's 2021 Chronogrammie for best regional podcast and listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. Please rate and review us in the Apple podcast store. For more info and links to episodes, trucker caps, and other merch, visit cidiot.com and follow the show on Instagram.

49. Coworking & Community

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 12:39:33 GMT

As more and more people consider working remote, let's talk to Steve and Tom, who have created a business in Stanfordville that gives people comfortably-designed spaces and also builds unique community. Nestled in a historic hamlet, Bangallworks Coworking and Community Building offers memberships for open plan workspaces, private workstations and special events and meetings both inside and outside. Bangallworks offers daily, part time, and full time memberships and provides high speed internet, printer and scanner, kitchenette, package delivery and receiving, and more. Visit bangallworks.com or email info@bangallworks.com for more information. Thanks Bangallworks for sponsoring Cidiot. Thanks listeners for tuning in.
Cidiot: Learning to Live and Love Life in the Hudson Valley is a podcast by Mat Zucker. Winner of Chronogram's 2021 Chronogrammie for best regional podcast and listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. For more info, visit cidiot.com.

48. P.B.C.C.

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 22:25:38 GMT

When you need to do seasonal things but you are the one who gets in the way, that's what we call a P.B.C.C. — "Problem Between City and Country." Inspired by a term I learned doing customer service in technology, a P.B.C.C. plays out cleaning, fixing, installing, hammering, basically anything handy. Thanks to new sponsor BANGALLWORKS in Stanfordville, NY, and to Chicken Librarian for new content, "Learning Curve," on her blog. Proud to be have been named listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. Follow Cidiot on Instagram.com/cidiot.hv and order your summer-time Cidiot t-shirts or trucker cap via Cidiot.com or direct link to the hats:www.gumroad.com/cidiot.

47. Grateful

Sun, 30 May 2021 19:39:05 GMT

The feeling of attending a live event. Mat, Brian, and cousin Lisa experience Patti Smith at Kaatsbaan Cultural Park and Cidiot recounts some of the many things he's grateful for, especially during Memorial Day weekend. This episode is sponsored by Ledgewood Kennel in Millerton, NY, where you can board and groom your pets. Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Proud to be have been listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. Get your trucker caps for summer. Leave me a voice message at anchor.fm/cidiot. Get vaccinated. And come visit.

46. Pets

Mon, 10 May 2021 23:08:43 GMT

We've talked animals, we've double-clucked into chickens. Now let's talk domesticated pets. And to help us do it, welcome new sponsor Ledgewood Kennels in Millerton, NY, where you can board and groom your pets. This episode also includes dog treat ideas from Chicken Librarian and my college friend Janelle's de-skunking recipe. Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Proud to be have been named listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. Photo credit: Ledgewood Kennel

45. In My Back Yard

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:17:30 GMT

Cidiot turns the microphone on the editors and owners of IMBY.com (In My Back Yard), a network of local newspapers to hear their story and about the importance of a local press and citizen journalism in our communities.

Thanks to our new sponsor Ledgewood Kennels in Millerton, NY , and for all of you listening and subscribing to Cidiot. Be sure to subscribe to Cidiot so you don't miss an episode. Vote for Cidiot as best Regional Podcast April 1-May 15 at Chronogram.com for the Chronogrammies reader choice awards.

44. Chicken Run

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 12:51:08 GMT

Season 4 was promised to be a new level. In this episode, Mat investigates the popularity of chickens. He talks first to a colleague Ryan Detwiler, who raises chickens, and then to Kristin White of Chicken Librarian, a homesteading service and new content partner. Why do people own chickens? Which should you pick? Can you do it in the city? And why does the word "chicken" mean coward? Open your ears and get ready to laugh and learn as the Chicken Librarian teaches you the "Egg Song."

Thank you to all of you cidiots for helping this podcast be listed as one of "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine. Vote for Cidiot as best regional podcast at Chronogram from April 1-May 15, 2021. Get vaccinated.

Come visit. Nothing to be afraid of.

43. Season Fourtold

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 15:34:14 GMT

Welcome back to Season 4 of Cidiot: Learning to Live and Love Life in the Hudson Valley. Join Mat Zucker as we start off at the historic Elmendorph Inn, our town's original welcome center. We'll also stop by Sawkill Farm where Gordon and Rex welcome us, especially Gordon who pees on my back tire. I'll also take Nora for a walk at Greig Farm and talk about our new content relationship with Chicken Librarian. Cidiot is listed among "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening" by Hudson Valley Magazine and is a finalist for Best Regional Podcast at Chronogram arts magazine, voting starts April 1! Visit Cidiot.com for more info, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Thanks for listening. Come visit.

News Worth Braying About

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 16:43:47 GMT

Cidiot just won first place for regional podcast in Chronogram magazine's annual Chronogrammies. Thanks to you. Well, those of you who voted! To celebrate, I'm also posting on my Medium blog some other great regional podcasts across the country so check that out. Thanks again for listening to Cidiot. Please rate and review Cidiot on the Apple podcast store, subscribe/follow on your favorite podcasting platform and stay current with news and community via Twitter at Cidiot_hv or on Instagram at Cidiot.hv.

Seasonal Hi-atus

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 18:14:50 GMT

Wanted to say hi and share the news that Cidiot has been nominated for a Chronogrammy for Best Regional Podcast! You can still vote for the nomination, other categories, and get on the list for April 1 voting. Also other musings because, well, we're bored. Aren't you? Visit Cidiot.com for more and follow us on instagram at @Cidiot.hv.

42. Light a Candle for the Season 3 Finale

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 20:01:46 GMT

Nowhere is the contrast of light and dark more discernible than in the countryside. In the Season Three finale of Cidiot, Mat explores the idea of light at holiday time and the renewed optimism he's so grateful for. Special shout-out to Suzy and her Advent Calendar and to everyone celebrating their holidays in their own way. As her mom's iconic message says, "Let others see the light in you."

Thank you for listening to Cidiot. Find cozy Cidiot sweatshirts and gear at https://www.bonfire.com/store/cidiot/ and follow the show on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cidiot.hv/. Will announce some dates for Season Four soon. Come visit.

41. Meet A Farmer - Kallie from Sawkill Farm

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 20:41:54 GMT

Mat interviews Kallie, one of the owners of Sawkill Farm in Red Hook, NY, home of his favorite eggs, bacon, and pork chops. Hear about what it's like to run a farm and the secret of why things taste so good. Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Chronogram listed us as one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Be Listening To." Find Cidiot trucker caps and the ebook Becoming a Cidiot, based on the podcast, at gumroad.com/cidiot and Farm Fresh merch at bonfire.com/store/cidiot. For updates, visit cidiot.com, join the page at facebook.com/cidiotlife and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

40. Community

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 19:46:49 GMT

Community is crucial wherever you live. In this episode, Mat explores the five types of community: Interest, Action, Place, Practice, and Circumstance. He also shares his dream bucket-list community event. Special shoutouts to Tricia Reed, Giobatta Alimentari in Tivoli, and all the others who make others feel at home.

My book Bronze Seeks Silver: Lessons from a Creative Career in Marketing is out in paperback and ebook. Visit bronzeseekssilver.comfor links on Amazon. Cozy Cidiot sweatshirts and other gear for winter at bonfire.com/store/cidiot. Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Come visit.

39. Hardscrabble Day

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 19:43:33 GMT

For the last 45 years, our village annually celebrates its scrappy roots.

Come hear from Historic Red Hook executive director Elisabeth Harmor about the day, local history, and, yes, horse thieves. Be sure to join Historic Red Hook at historicredhook.org. Thank you, Prime Print Shop in Poughkeepsie, for sponsoring this episode. Get 10% off printing your first order with the secret code word: "Cidiot." Other shout-outs to Giobatta Alimentari and their new morning coffee & breakfast sandwich service. Thanks for listening. Come visit.

38. Printed In Poughkeepsie

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 23:04:42 GMT

In this new episode, Mat talks to local business owner Daniel Clark of Prime Print Shop in Poughkeepsie. Daniel also grew up in the Hudson Valley so he'll share a more local view on the area, residents, CSAs, geography and stuff to do.

Special thanks to Prime Print Shop for sponsoring this episode. Visit primeprintshop.com and mention "Cidiot" for 20% off your next order. They can copy, print, and scan nearly anything from house plans, property surveys and planning board submissions, to banners, business cards, yard signs, and more.

Thanks also to Will Tatum, Dutchess County Historian for helping us with Poughkeepsie facts. Follow @dutchesscounty.

So glad you're tuning into Cidiot. Chronogram listed us as one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Be Listening To." Please subscribe if you haven't already.

If you're a superfan, you can find Cidiot trucker caps at gumroad.com/cidiot , and for updates, visit cidiot.com.

37. One Telephone Pole at a Time

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 19:07:29 GMT

In this new episode, Mat explores the different adjustments from Coronavirus, including his new hobby of run-walking and the verb knowns as bunkering. Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Chronogram listed us as one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Be Listening To." Find Cidiot trucker caps and the new ebook Becoming a Cidiot, based on the podcast, at gumroad.com/cidiot. For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

36. Meet An Advanced Cidiot

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 11:34:20 GMT

You might believe you are the first at something, but, of course, there have been others before you. In this special episode, Mat interviews Dairo, an accomplished, established Cidiot and an Empire Regular from the train. Mat learns learn about how Dairo and his family made the switch from city to upstate, how they've made friends, what's so special about upstate — including the need for a chainsaw. Thanks for listening. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Want more? The new ebook Becoming a Cidiot as well iconic trucker caps are available at gumroad.com/cidiot. For updates, visit cidiot.com, join the page at facebook.com/cidiotlife and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

35. Animals

Mon, 25 May 2020 19:39:51 GMT

Ducks. Sheep. Goats. Coyotes. You can't live up here and not love animals. Well, most of them. In this episode of Cidiot, Mat share some highlights. Shout outs to Tivoli General, Winn's Tivoli, and Doorstep Market.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." The Becoming a Cidiot eBook is coming so stay tuned for its release plus updated merch at the Cidiot store. For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

34. What Will Happen To Our Towns?

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 20:47:33 GMT

When you ask, Mat answers. In this episode, we answer a question from listener Keith Stoeckeler about the future of our towns during this unusual, stressful and dangerous time of Coranoravirus. Mat investigates with conversations with deputy mayor Brent Kovalchik and director of the Red Hook Area Chamber of Commerce, Kim McGrath.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

33. Hike in Place

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 19:13:27 GMT

From bucolic to bubonic, join Mat as he talks about what it’s like in the Hudson Valley during this unusual, stressful and dangerous time of Coranoravirus. Special shout outs to Giabotta Alimentari in Tivoli, Equis Art Gallery in Red Hook, The Other Hudson Valley, and the new Recoup podcast from Adam Baer.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

32. Plan B

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 21:05:43 GMT

In this new episode of Cidiot®, Mat grapples with the realities of living two planes, a train and sometimes a bus from home. Plus he's excited about Cidiot's mention on the Spotify podcasters blog, recent Apple podcast store ratings and fan mail.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

31. God’s Country - Season 3 Premiere

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:53:39 GMT

Welcome to Season 3 of Cidiot® - Learning to Live and Love Life in the Hudson Valley. This first episode starts far from Dutchess Country - 5,600 miles in Tel Aviv, Israel. Food. Diversity. Safety. Religion.

Join Mat as he continues to explore what it means to transition from city to country in what Hudson Valley Magazine called one of “8 Hudson Valley podcasts for All-Day Listening” and Chronogram arts magazine listed as one of “6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Be Listening To.” For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

30. Festivus - Season 2 Finale

Sat, 21 Dec 2019 21:05:07 GMT

At the end of season two, Mat gets way more local about the holidays — fundraising door-to-door for the fire department at his village’s WinterFest and finally joining the underground Festivus Train.

Thanks for listening. Cidiot® has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and by Chronogram as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

29. Uncharted Territory

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 20:02:32 GMT

There are roads we all haven't gone down. But should. Your frontier is where you stop. Being a Cidiot means being new and adapting, despite how long it takes or how silly you look trying.

Tune into Cidiot® as Mat describes exploration. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening," and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To."

For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

28. Winterize is a verb

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 20:40:21 GMT

If you haven't started to prepare for the cold, you're not too late. Tune into Cidiot as Mat describes the annual labor of winterizing their home. But ferry the wood to the porch and plug in that heat tape. Arya Stark won't save you.

Cidiot® has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening," and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

27. Eleanor Was Right

Sat, 19 Oct 2019 20:14:58 GMT

This episode, Mat relishes the dedication of a bronze bust of first lady Eleanor Roosevelt in Tivoli and how they now share a hometown. It's also the big move out of NYC and first weekend as full-timers. Wait til you hear listener Kristin's advice.

Cidiot® has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening," and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiot.hv on Instagram.

26. Are We Ready to be Full-timers?

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 19:22:55 GMT

Now it's really real. Tune into Cidiot as Mat describes giving up their lease in NYC and moving upstate full-time.

Cidiot® has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening," and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To."

For updates, visit cidiot.com and follow @cidiotlife on Instagram.

25. Thanksgiving in the Summer

Sat, 07 Sep 2019 17:49:23 GMT

This episode of Cidiot covers our own annual tradition - Thanksgiving in the summer. Friends, family, food, farm life all come together in our garden. Chronogram named Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To," and Hudson Valley Magazine recently called Cidiot one of "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts Perfect for All-Day Listening." Available everywhere, info and links to Cidiot t-shirts and trucker caps at Cidiot.com. Please review and rate us in the Apple store.

24. Sounds Like You Need A Change

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 14:16:49 GMT

Previous episodes have covered what we see and do, this episode is about what we hear—and how it makes us feel. Cidiot has been featured on Hudson Valley Magazine's "8 Hudson Valley Podcasts for All-Day Listening" and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, visit cidiot.com, join our facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife and follow @cidiotlife on Instagram. Email: goats@cidiot.com

23. Take A Hike

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 14:27:07 GMT

Is it exercise or medicine? This week, Mat Zucker explores hiking in the Hudson Valley. Some seasoned hiking experts weigh in, and a list of hikes you might want to try yourself. Chronogram and Hudson Valley Magazine have both lauded Cidiot® as a podcast to listen to. We'll end with a capitalist-friendly quote.

Some of the hikes, businesses, and sites mentioned:

Poet's Walk, Red Hook, NY
Drayton Grant Park at Burger Hill, Rhinebeck, NY
Buttercup Sanctuary, Stanfordville, NY
Innisfree, Millbrook
Otto's Market, Germantown
Hike the Hudson Valley
The Zen Hiker

Thanks for listening. Come visit.

22. Hot and Bothered

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 15:33:35 GMT

It's hot. Handling a heat wave is different upstate than in the city. This episode in Season Two of Cidiot provides a guide to coping, managing and even thriving in the hottest days. Thanks so much for listening. Chronogram arts magazine has called Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Let freedom ring. Come visit. And if not in person to buy, rent or for a weekend, then on the web at cidiot.com and join our page for updates on facebook.com/cidiotlife. Mentions in this episode include: Tivoli Mercantile, Broadway, Tivoli, NY Fortunes Ice Cream Parlor, Broadway, Tivoli, NY Holy Cow Ice Cream, Route 9, Red Hook, NY Lake Taghkanic State Park, Ancram, NY Let's Go Swimming - Swimming Holes in The Bard Press Cidiot gear is available through Bonfire: Baby goat tee Farm Fresh Message goats@cidiot.com if you want to order a trucker cap. Just $25.

21. Freedom Begins Between The Ears

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 15:11:25 GMT

Home of battles, heroes and history, the Hudson Valley loves, loves, loves Independence Day.

This episode of Cidiot® looks at what freedom means upstate compared to the city and a little Livingston history. Thanks so much for listening. Chronogram Arts Magazine has called Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Let freedom ring.

Come visit. More information at cidiot.com.

20. Very Local Pride

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 14:07:25 GMT

In episode 20, Mat and Brian celebrate a 20-year anniversary, a local march in their village of Tivoli, NY, and a look at what it's like for them to be LGBT upstate in the Hudson Valley.

Thanks for listening to Cidiot. Chronogram Arts Magazine called us one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To."

19. Brian Will Get The Flowers Himself

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 19:53:39 GMT

Even city dwellers are taking to gardening. It is a hobby, a craft, an obsession. In episode 19 of Cidiot, we'll talk about gardening and interview my overall-clad husband Brian, who couldn't be happier winter is over. Learn from him what we grow, what it takes — and why. If you love gardening, the outdoors, and the Hudson Valley, this podcast could be for you. Cidiot was named one of the "6 Hudson Valley podcasts you should listen to." Visit Cidiot.com and join our Facebook page on facebook.com/cidiotlife.

18. Help Wanted: Experiences

Sun, 19 May 2019 17:38:48 GMT

In this new episode, Cidiot explores the rich public and private experiences that connect you more to the area and also a great way to meet new folks. Cidiot was noted by Hudson Valley Magazine as one of the "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Be sure to join our facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife.

17. Spring Forward - Season 2 Premiere

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 19:00:41 GMT

Welcome back to Season 2 of Cidiot. Looking forward to a new season full of new stories, experiences, and teachable moments.

Cidiot has been featured in Hudson Valley Magazine and in Chronogram's "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." For updates, join our Facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife, our podsite at cidiot.com.

16. Season 1 Finale

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 16:34:42 GMT

The seasons are changing and this is a good time to reflect on the first episode of Cidiot® and plan the next.

Tune in for what Mat has learned, and the work that is yet to do. Chronogram named Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Please rate and review us in the Apple store so more folks can find us. Visit cidiot.com for more.

15. Town For Sale

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 20:29:34 GMT

As Spring approaches, Mat talks about change up close and personal and having been on both sides of it.

Thanks to Chronogram magazine for calling Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Be Listening To." Be sure to join our Facebook page at Facebook.com/cidiotlife and rate us in the Apple Podcast store. Visit cidiot.com for more information.

14. The Most Important Visitors

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 17:01:18 GMT

In this new episode, Mat helps you welcome the most important visitors with the Cidiot Guide to Hosting.

Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To."

Cidiot now has a Facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife and a podsite at cidiot.com.

13. Cidiot Recommends (2019 Winter Edition)

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 22:40:35 GMT

Introducing a new series feature, Cidiot Recommends, with recommendations by Mat of how to learn, where to stay and, of course, where to eat in The Hudson Valley.

Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To."

Cidiot now has a Facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife. P.S. Mat is taking the mic at "The Porch" at Murray's Tivoli on Saturday, Feb 23, 2019. Visit the podsite at cidiot.com

12. Solitude

Sat, 05 Jan 2019 19:33:50 GMT

In the new year and dead of winter, Mat explores the pros and cons of solitude, punctuated by your very own Cidiot Action List. Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." If you're looking to move to the Hudson Valley or another great rural community, this podcast could help you acclimate and enjoy it more. Cidiot now has a Facebook page at facebook.com/cidiotlife and a podsite at cidiot.com. Please rate us in the podcast store. Want to send a voicemail? Download + send via the Anchor app.

11. Cheating On Your Farm Life

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 16:12:12 GMT

Mat sneaks off to Kingston and New York City for a hit of culture. Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Thanks to our sponsor. Be sure to rate us in the podcast store. Want to send a voicemail? Download + send via the Anchor app. Visit our podsite at cidiot.com and contact Mat via goats@cidiot.com

10. The Holidays

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 19:59:36 GMT

The holidays are different up here in the Hudson Valley. Mat explores the personal and local traditions that make these really dark, winter nights a bit more full of light.

Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot® as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Be sure to rate us in the podcast store. Visit Cidiot.com for more.

9. Red All Over

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:41:34 GMT

Red means barns. Read means books. As the seasons quickly shift, this episode explores what red can mean up here in the country. Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Be sure to rate us in the podcast store.

8. How to be a Guest

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 14:57:03 GMT

Being a guest is serious business. Dutch writer Maarten Maartens said “Saying with people consists in you’re not having your own way — and they’re not having theirs."

This new episode of Cidiot® explores what it means to be a guest, with advice from expert visitors to the Hudson Valley, such as our friend Liz and my mom. Thanks to Chronogram for choosing Cidiot as one of "6 Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Be sure to rate us in the podcast store and visit Cidiot.com.

6. What You Desperately Need

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:42:39 GMT

This episode of Cidiot® continues the guide of what you need once you have a town, a house, friends and you’ve started to set up. I’ll cover a checklist of 14 must-have items to live and love life in the country. Thanks to Stephen and Victor for their ideas. Be sure to rate it in the podcast store and subscribe for updates.

5. Fall

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 20:25:25 GMT

Fall is amazing in the Hudson Valley. From iconic apples to sheep and street festivals, this episode of Cidiot talks about the activities and food that makes it special. Plus a surprise call in from my husband Brian and a seven-step hard-learned guide on getting ready for winter.

4. Making Friends

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 15:05:30 GMT

Part of our ongoing guide for cidiots moving to the country - Six strategies to making friends upstate, whether it's the Hudson Valley in New York or wherever cows, sheep, and goats reign.

If you're looking to rent or buy a home in the Hudson Valley or another great rural community, this podcast could help you acclimate and feel at home. Chronogram arts magazine named Cidiot® one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Be sure to share, rate, review, and comment in the podcast store and subscribe for future updates. Visit the podsite at cidiot.com.

3. Setting Yourself Up

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 18:23:18 GMT

A guide to the first weeks, from banks and paperwork to furnishing and people. Believe me, you cannot go it alone.

Visit cidiot.com for more, including a link to the store where you can buy the ebook Becoming A Cidiot: A Very Personal Guide For Moving From the City To the Country

2. Finding Your Town

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 18:33:43 GMT

Our guide to moving to the country begins with where exactly to start. From summer rentals in Ghent, Spencertown, and Rhinebeck to our 10-3-1 rule for choosing a town, you'll know the criteria whether you end up in Dutchess, Columbia, or Ulster Counties — or somewhere far from the Hudson Valley.

Be sure to rate Cidiot in the podcast store and subscribe.

For more info, visit the podsite at Cidiot.com.

1. Are you a Cidiot?

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 17:43:31 GMT

Hello and welcome to the debut episode of the Cidiot® podcast, a guide to living and loving life in the beautiful, rural Hudson Valley, New York.

With goats, sheep, cows, and good food, this episode defines Cidiot and shares the beginning of our story.

If you're looking to rent or buy a home in the Hudson Valley or another great rural community, this podcast could help you acclimate. Chronogram arts magazine named Cidiot one of "Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To." Visit Cidiot.com for more.

130. Spring Through

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:01:00 GMT

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 26
Benefit: Supports Slow Food Hudson Valley
Tickets at Slow Food Hudson Valley site

Links to highlights mentioned in the episode:

Slow Food Hudson Valley
Montgomery Orchard Wayside Stand, Red Hook
Hearty Roots Community Farm, Clermont
MX Morningstar, Claverack
Samascott Orchards, Kinderhook
Kingston Farmers Market, Kingston
Copake Hillsdale Farmers Market, Hillsdale
Hudson 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.

Tune into Cidiot

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 18:49:38 GMT

More Americans would choose rural if they could. Cidiot is proud to be one of “Six Hudson Valley Podcasts You Should Listen To” and to share our story moving 100 miles north of New York City. Listen at Cidiot.com or wherever you podcast. Come visit.