Pocono Mountains Podcast

Season 4, Episode 13 - This time of year is THE time of year to be out on the river whether it’s the Delaware which just held its annual sojourn or on the whitewater rapids on the Lehigh River – with numerous outfitters on the Lehigh our Deanna Fontanez caught up with Jim Thorpe River Adventures in Lehighton recently – and river veteran Jerry McAward! He’s the guy behind the Lehighton Outdoor Center which serves all your needs out there on the trails and the river! The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 2,400 square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 31 - Flashback to the top 4 episodes of 2025. Back on Episode 27, we dove into what makes ⁠Here & Now Brewing Company⁠ so good.Ben Cooper, Allaina Propst and their team are constantly evolving their menu, drawing inspiration from local farmers, fellow chefs, and even casual conversations over beers and pizza. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 30 - We have met many Pocono People along the way, Francesca with Fusia Center for the Arts is a lifelong local who turned her passion for dance into a thriving arts community. From humble beginnings to creating a space where creativity and self-expression flourish, her story is all about following your calling and building something that brings people together. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 29 - We’re kicking off the Behind the Maker series where we pull back the curtain and dive into the stories of the people behind some of the incredible things created right here in the Poconos. If you’ve ever been to Barley Creek Brewing, you know it’s more than just a place to grab a pint — it’s a community hub, a gathering spot, and a name that’s become synonymous with good times in the mountains. And at the heart of it all? The beer. Deanna sat down with the guy who’s been shaping that experience for over fourteen years: Matt Doughty, Head Brewer at Barley Creek.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 28 - We just wrapped up our eight-part journey Exploring State Parks of the Poconos and capped it off with a deep dive into one of the region's most expansive and awe-inspiring natural treasures: the Delaware State Forest.Nestled across Pike and Monroe counties, this forest spans over 80,000 acres of wild beauty—trails, lakes, streams, and now a brand-new Resource Management Center built in 2025. From the Thunder Swamp Trail to the historic High Knob Fire Tower, and hidden gems like Camp William Penn, we're exploring the heart and soul of this forest and the passionate people who keep it thriving. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 27 - With Taste of the Poconos Restaurant Week just around the corner—November 9th - 14th—we're diving into what makes Here & Now Brewing Company so good.Ben Cooper, Allaina Propst and their team are constantly evolving their menu, drawing inspiration from local farmers, fellow chefs, and even casual conversations over beers and pizza.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on PoconoMountains.com or watch Pocono Television Network streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 26 - We’re heading to the heart of the Pocono Mountains to meet Justin Pittman, owner of Precision Fly and Tackle — a business built on passion, patience, and purpose. From humble beginnings in 2018 to four thriving locations across Pennsylvania, The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 2,400 square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 25 (Flashback to Season 4, Episode 25) - It has been six years (seven in 2025) since ⁠George W. Childs Park⁠ has been open to the public. In 2024, the favorite of so many locals and visitors reopened after the National Park Service worked ⁠to restore the park’s trails and platforms⁠ following a destructive winter storm in 2018.The newly updated Childs Park is even more accessible protecting nature and giving folks a whole new way to experience the waterfalls and beauty that surrounds visitors. Chris and Deanna also celebrate the start of train excursions from Nesquehoning - watch for a story on the November Pocono Mountains Magazine in 2025 for that!The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 2,400 square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 24 - We’re celebrating the heart and soul of hospitality in the Pocono Mountains. Meet Jamie Maher, General Manager of the Gem & Keystone Tavern at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, and the recipient of the Spirit of Hospitality Award for Manager of the Year from the Northeast Chapter of the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association.Jamie isn’t just a manager — she’s a mentor, a leader, and a beloved presence who makes every guest feel like family. From her dedication to her team to the unforgettable experiences she helps create, Jamie exemplifies what it means to lead with heart.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 23 - We’ve reached the finish line of our special 8-part series exploring state parks in the Poconos. In this final episode, we venture into the quintessential Pocono park—Lehigh Gorge State Park. With its steep-walled gorge, rushing river, and Instagram-worthy views, Lehigh Gorge is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and history lovers alike.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 22 - We take you to the banks of the Delaware River to explore the historic and ever-evolving Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort. In this episode, we uncover the sweet side of Shawnee—literally! With an on-site apiary buzzing with activity, the resort’s beekeepers are crafting honey that finds its way into delicious dishes and craft brews served on the property.From golf greens to a brand-new pool, Shawnee is blending tradition with innovation. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming in next month’s Pocono Mountains Magazine, where Brianna dives deeper into the resort’s vibrant food scene and the buzz around their bees.The Pocono Mountains region is a year-round destination for over 30 million visitors, offering 2,400 square miles of natural beauty, charming towns, and iconic family resorts. Whether you're planning your next adventure or just want to stay in the loop, visit PoconoMountains.com or tune into PTN – Pocono Television Network on cable, broadcast, and streaming.Stay tuned for a future episode featuring an award-winning manager from the Gem and Keystone Tavern—but for now, enjoy this sweet story from Shawnee!

Season 5, Episode 21 - Take a journey through the Pocono Mountains aboard two iconic passenger trains: the Stourbridge Line in Honesdale and the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe. These railways offer breathtaking views of the region’s rivers, vibrant fall foliage, and abundant wildlife—all while sharing the rich history of the Pocono rail corridor.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 20 - Some places were made for more than just watching movies. We head to the heart of Milford, where the historic Milford Theater has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began five years ago as a series of screenings has blossomed into a vibrant cultural revival, thanks to the vision and investment of the Milford Hospitality Group.From major upgrades to hosting events like the Black Bear Film Festival, the theater’s marquee now shines bright with creativity and community spirit. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 19 - We take you to the summit of one of the region’s most iconic peaks—Big Pocono State Park. With panoramic views stretching across the Pocono Mountains and beyond, this park offers a thrilling experience for those who don’t mind heights and love rugged trails.Jim is joined by environmental educator Stephanie Sherman, who shares fascinating insights into the park’s unique geological features and rich natural history. Plus, hear from Nathan Reigner, Pennsylvania’s first Director of Outdoor Recreation, as he discusses the importance of outdoor spaces like Big Pocono in shaping the future of recreation in the state.This episode is part of a special 8-part series exploring state parks in the Poconos, leading up to the September edition of Pocono Mountains Magazine. Don’t miss the full feature coming soon!The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 18 - PTN visited Ellday Farm in Pleasant Mount, Wayne County. The dairy farm is where Ellis Dix has been farming since 1961 and over the years his granddaughter Ashley, along with many other family members, have joined him in that effort. A lot has changed in those years, but the lessons Ellis Dix has learned along the way have contributed to the AgroLegacy of the Northern Poconos. AgroLegacy of the Northern Poconos certifies the food and farm products you buy with the AgroLegacy symbol are grown or produced right in Wayne County and support farms like Ellday Farm. Watch the September Pocono Mountains Magazine for a full story about what makes this way of life so rewarding to the Dix family. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠ or watch ⁠Pocono Television Network⁠ streaming live 24/7.

People have been camping in the Poconos for a VERY long time. There are campgrounds all over the map and campsites at state parks and other spots where you can park a camper or pitch a tent.Recently, Brianna Strunk visited Pocono Camp and Glamp in the Jim Thorpe area and learned how glamping in addition to horseback rides resulted from a former YMCA camp for teens from Philly. The former summer camp has been upgraded to have all the modern amenities that you could ever want or need along with more of your traditional campsites. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on PoconoMountains.com or watch Pocono Television Network streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 16 - We are on the homestretch of our series Exploring State Parks in the Poconos. Recently, we explored Promised Land State Park which is in Pike County - not far from Interstate 84.We learned some great insights from Park Manager Sara Jade Woodsmith about the park's beach, campgrounds, history and more. We also paddled for a bit around the lake with Kara Derry, who's helped lead the new group Friends of Promised Land. And we learned a lot about the history of the park, one of the oldest in the state and with ties to the New Deal programs.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on PoconoMountains.com or watch Pocono Television Network streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 15 - What began as a vision for a tranquil retreat has blossomed into a beloved escape and wedding destination, as well as home to the sisters who live and breathe the philosophy of restoration and unplugging at Magnolia Streamside Resort. And with the recent expansion of the property and the re-launch of the Magnolia Quantum Wellness Center, their dream has evolved , now offering state-of-the-art holistic healing experiences that bridge science, spirituality, and soul care. Brianna was there a couple years ago, Deanna just had to go back for an upcoming story on Pocono Mountains Magazine in August. The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it's the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on PoconoMountains.com or watch Pocono Television Network streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 14 - We have featured Pohopoco Creek Alpaca Farm on Pocono Mountains Magazine before but never like this. Brianna Strunk traveled to the farm and chatted with its founder, Mary Baxter. Mary's passion for Alpacas is a heartwarming story all about how these animals can have a special impact on people's lives and will be in the upcoming July episode of Pocono Mountains Magazine.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.

Season 5, Episode 13 - Summer is upon us and what better way to spend it than on the lake?! Beltzville State Park has a very popular beach that welcomes thousands of people at a time and at times, requires the park to close the gates. Beltzville State Park is one of the most popular places in the Pocono Mountains  for swimming, fishing, and boating. Some special guests join us to learn why Beltzville is so special.The Poconos is a year-round destination for millions and with 24-hundred square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers with historic downtowns and iconic family resorts, it’s the perfect getaway for a weekend or an entire week. You can always find out more on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PoconoMountains.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or watch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocono Television Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ streaming live 24/7.