Duologue with Leslie Heaney

This week on Duologue, Leslie sits down with actor, humanitarian, and true American patriot Gary Sinise, best known for his role as Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump, to talk about his life’s mission of service.From his early work with Vietnam veterans to founding the Gary Sinise Foundation, Gary has dedicated decades to supporting our nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders, and their families. In this heartfelt conversation, he shares how his journey from Hollywood success to humanitarian leadership began, the incredible work of the Foundation, and how the legacy of his late son, Mac, continues to inspire their mission.Leslie and Gary also discuss the Lt. Dan Band, the Foundation’s Snowball Express program for Gold Star families, and the power of gratitude, purpose, and giving back.If you’ve ever wondered what true service looks like, this episode will remind you.Learn more or donate atgarysinisefoundation.org. New episodes of Duologue are released every Wednesday. Subscribe so you never miss a new one! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This episode is the perfect antidote to whatever you’re feeling the day after election day… in today’s episode, I sit down with two documentary filmmakers, Kahane Corn Cooperman and Innbo Shim, to discuss their film, Creede USA.Creede is a small, remote mining town in Colorado that serves as a microcosm of differing political sides and debates that are happening more broadly in our country today.  The town consists of conservative mining families that have been there for generations, and more liberal, progressive theater people who come into town every summer for the past 60 years for their repertory theater company.  The documentary features many individuals and perspectives that live in this small town of 300, where residents are forced to confront each other's differing views.  The film covers the real-time school board meetings that are tackling some of the pressing political hot button debates and issues facing us today - from topics like guns in schools and gender identity curriculum. This film, and our conversation, explores how people can have vehemently opposing political views, YET still maintain respect for and civility toward one another, and in doing so have created a strong and thriving community in Creede. Creede USA is an amazing independent film… this story and the two amazing female filmmakers behind this story are truly inspirational. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, Leslie sits down with writer and editor Daisy Prince to explore the real history behind Outlander. Daisy—whose work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Vanity Fair, Vogue, The Telegraph, and Tatler—takes us deep into the fascinating story of Clan Fraser, the real-life Scottish family that inspired the hit series.This conversation spans centuries — from 14th-century Scotland, when Sir Simon Fraser fought alongside William Wallace against the English, to the real events and characters that inspired Outlander. Among them is the infamous 11th Lord Lovat, whose beheading famously gave rise to the phrase “laughing my head off.”Leslie and Daisy also talk about the dashing Brigadier Simon “Shimi” Fraser, a World War II hero who led his men into the D-Day invasion—bagpiper and all. Shimi had a bounty on his head from Hitler, and Winston Churchill once described him as “the most beautiful man who ever cut a throat.”If you’re an Outlander fan (or just love a good Scottish saga), you’re going to love this one.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This past Saturday, October 18th, was World Menopause Awareness Day (women my age follow these things). In recognition of that, I sat down last week with menopause specialist Dr. Cat Brown, Medical Director at Winona. Winona is a telehealth company that empowers, educates, and treats women going through their menopausal journeys. Winona also provides women across the country access to health care providers who specialize in treating menopause. In this conversation, Dr. Brown and I talked about the new research and recommendations around Hormone Replacement Therapy ("HRT") not only for its efficacy in relieving common menopause symptoms, but also for its great benefits for bone, heart, and cognitive health.We also discuss all of the symptoms of menopause that we hear a lot about (hot flashes, sleepless nights, mood swings) and those perimenopause and menopause side effects that are less known: loss of muscle mass, brain fog, hair loss, joints that 'crack like glow sticks' (those were actually my words, not hers), dry skin and more. We explore what women can do beyond HRT and other medications—like prioritizing sleep, diet, exercise, and certain supplements—to not only mitigate the unpleasant symptoms of menopause, but most importantly, to maintain our health and vitality throughout a life transition that all women go through!If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re in perimenopause or menopause, are curious about HRT safety, or simply want to feel more like yourself again, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

After surviving a shark attack that nearly took her life, Ali Truwit set a bold goal—to compete in the Paralympics exactly one year later. Not only did she make the U.S. team, she brought home two silver medals, broke two world records, and inspired millions.In this episode, we talk about resilience, friendship, and how Ali turned tragedy into purpose through her Stronger Than You Think Foundation. Her story is a reminder that we’re all stronger than we think. Listen, watch, join the conversation! For more insider content, subscribe to Duologue Diaries on Substack! This episode is sponsored by Corroon: Use code "DUOLOGUE" for 20% off your purchaseHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

I am so thrilled to be back and to announce that The Interview with Leslie Heaney’s new name is Duologue with Leslie Heaney!A duologue is a conversation between two people (although while sometimes my interviews include more than one guest) and this new name for the pod summarizes what we do - having conversations with really interesting people who have inspirational life stories or great wisdom or expert information to share.In addition to the new name, I will be launching a Substack - Duologue Diaries! The Duologue Diaries will have some free content and then more exclusive subscriber only content, access and special subscriber giveaways. You will not want to miss it! We also have launched great new merch for Duologue - come buy your new favorite Duo swag and represent the pod! www.duologuepod.comMy first new Duologue episode will be released tomorrow, Wednesday October 15th.Listen, watch subscribe! Get inspired. Learn something new. Share some laughs along the way.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Tom Opre — filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of the ⁠Shepherds of Wildlife Society⁠, a nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting people and wildlife through powerful documentary films.Tom has spent his career behind the camera, capturing stories of rural areas and the people who call them home. Over the years, he’s witnessed a growing disconnect between rural communities and urban audiences when it comes to conservation. His belief is simple but bold: protecting land and wildlife isn’t just about “rewilding” — it’s about humans actively managing resources and preserving centuries-old livelihoods so future generations can thrive.A Different Kind of StorytellingThrough the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, Tom is on a mission to tell those stories and spark honest conversations about what conservation really means.To bring this vision to life, Tom has directed three amazing, critically-acclaimed documentaries:⁠Killing the Shepherd⁠An award-winning film following a small African village led by a woman chief fighting back against poaching and poverty. Screened at global festivals and even the U.S. Capitol, the film has sparked real conversations about conservation and social justice.⁠The Last Keeper⁠Set in the Scottish Highlands, this documentary dives into how modern government policies are displacing long-standing rural communities and threatening the Scottish landscape.⁠The Real Yellowstone⁠Tom’s newest project tells the story of the American West’s ranchers, outfitters, and conservationists caught at the crossroads of tradition and modern land pressures. It’s the raw, real-life version of what Taylor Sheridan dramatized in Yellowstone — as Tom says, “this is real life.”Here’s the exciting part: The Real Yellowstone is hosting an ⁠exclusive digital streaming event⁠. This event will vanish after September 15th. No replays. No second chance. Don’t miss the chance to see it!Tom and I went so deep in our conversation that this is a two-part special:Part 1 (last episode): We explore Killing the Shepherd and The Last Keeper — covering everything from rural Africa’s fight for survival to Scotland’s historic tensions between landowners and city dwellers.Part 2 (this episode): We dive into The Real Yellowstone and talk about the sacrifices of progress, the rancher’s way of life, and why these stories matter for the future of both land and wildlife.If you love filmmaking, history, conservation, or just real-world stories with real stakes — you’ll want to hear this one.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week I’m sitting down with Tom Opre — filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, a nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting people and wildlife through powerful documentary films.Tom has spent his career behind the camera, capturing stories of rural areas and the people who call them home. Over the years, he’s witnessed a growing disconnect between rural communities and urban audiences when it comes to conservation. His belief is simple but bold: protecting land and wildlife isn’t just about “rewilding” — it’s about humans actively managing resources and preserving centuries-old livelihoods so future generations can thrive.A Different Kind of StorytellingThrough the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, Tom is on a mission to tell those stories and spark honest conversations about what conservation really means.To bring this vision to life, Tom has directed three amazing, critically-acclaimed documentaries:Killing the ShepherdAn award-winning film following a small African village led by a woman chief fighting back against poaching and poverty. Screened at global festivals and even the U.S. Capitol, the film has sparked real conversations about conservation and social justice.The Last KeeperSet in the Scottish Highlands, this documentary dives into how modern government policies are displacing long-standing rural communities and threatening the Scottish landscape.The Real YellowstoneTom’s newest project tells the story of the American West’s ranchers, outfitters, and conservationists caught at the crossroads of tradition and modern land pressures. It’s the raw, real-life version of what Taylor Sheridan dramatized in Yellowstone — as Tom says, “this is real life.”Here’s the exciting part: The Real Yellowstone is hosting an exclusive digital streaming event. This event will vanish after September 15th. No replays. No second chance. Don’t miss the chance to see it!Tom and I went so deep in our conversation that this is a two-part special:Part 1 (out today): We explore Killing the Shepherd and The Last Keeper — covering everything from rural Africa’s fight for survival to Scotland’s historic tensions between landowners and city dwellers.Part 2 (coming next): We dive into The Real Yellowstone and talk about the sacrifices of progress, the rancher’s way of life, and why these stories matter for the future of both land and wildlife.If you love filmmaking, history, conservation, or just real-world stories with real stakes — you’ll want to hear this one.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on The Interview, Leslie sits down with Mayor Scott Singer of Boca Raton, Florida—a longtime friend and a leader making headlines for his bold vision and steady hand in public service.Scott shares the story of leaving New York to return to South Florida, what motivated him to first run for City Council, and how his passion for creating jobs and opportunities has shaped Boca Raton into a thriving community. From recruiting businesses and lowering taxes to spearheading transformative infrastructure like Brightline high-speed rail, Scott offers a masterclass in what it means to lead with both vision and pragmatism.They also dig into big-picture themes: how cities can rebound from decline, why public safety and strong business foundations are essential, and the lessons Scott has learned from fellow mayors nationwide. This conversation goes beyond policy and politics. At its core, this episode is about vision, service, and the impact one leader can have on an entire community.If you’ve ever wondered how cities reinvent themselves, how mayors make decisions that shape daily life, or what leadership looks like when done well — this episode will give you a front-row seat.🎧 Stream the full episode now — and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie for more behind-the-scenes from our guests.EPISODE SPONSORS: Go to ⁠www.tenmiledistillery.com⁠ and use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your order of award-winning spiritsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Earlier this summer, as part of our Summer Travel Series, we featured Newport, Rhode Island through the lens of celebrated photographer Nick Mele.This week, we’re back with part two of our conversation, turning to Nick’s career journey, creative process, and signature style that blends timeless elegance with humor.Often referred to as a modern-day Slim Aarons, Nick has carved out a space as one of today’s most distinctive visual storytellers — capturing Newport’s coastal charm, the vibrancy of Palm Beach society, and the whimsical details that bring luxury culture to life.In this episode, Nick opens up about the winding road to becoming a fine art photographer:How bartending at 30 with a young family sparked his rediscovery of photographyWhat he learned from working with legendary society photographer Patrick McMullanWhy access and authenticity became his competitive edge in an oversaturated marketHow humor transformed into a cornerstone of his signature styleWhat’s next as he expands further into fine art and lifestyle photographyIf you’re passionate about creativity, photography, luxury culture, and the art of storytelling, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.🎧 Stream the full episode now — and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie for more behind-the-scenes from our guests.EPISODE SPONSORS:Go to cozyearth.com and use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Go to www.tenmiledistillery.com and use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your order of award-winning spiritsHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on The Interview with Leslie Heaney, we’re traveling back to the sandy shores of Long Island with Sarah Wetenhall, a life-long summer resident in and around East Hampton and the co-owner and CEO of The Hedges Inn in East Hampton and The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.Back in 2016, Sarah and her husband Andrew, took over The Colony Hotel (an iconic hotel that had formerly been owned by her father-in-law) - blending the Colony’s timeless style with modern luxury, creating designer collaborations, resurrecting the celebrated Swifty’s restaurant, and curating experiences that keep guests coming back year after year.Now, the Wetenhalls have brought that same philosophy to The Hedges Inn in East Hampton, transforming the historic 13-room inn into a boutique luxury escape. From private beach setups and partnerships with Volvo for guest transportation to menus inspired by local farm stands, Sarah is redefining what “full-service” means in the Hamptons.In this episode, Sarah and I talk about everything from the renaissance of The Colony Hotel and now The Hedges under her and her husband’s ownership, to all of her favorite spots in and around East Hampton.   Our conversation covers all of Sarah’s favorite restaurants, spots for families, places to shop, amazing events in the area in the summer and fall and all of the incredible outdoor activities available from visiting one of the most beautiful beaches in America - Main Beach in East Hampton - to getting paddle board lessons from an adorable instructor!  Whether you’re dreaming of a late summer or early fall getaway to East Hampton, or learning more about this female business leader who has revitalized two iconic hotels, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!Stream it now! And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieEPISODE SPONSORS: Go to cozyearth.com and use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% offbest-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Tenmile Distillery is home to the award-winning Little Rest Whisky -- All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSORS: Cozy Earth: use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% offbest-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Tenmile Distillery: All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.Our next stop in the Summer Travel Series takes us to the Rockies for a deep dive into one of Colorado’s most glamorous and adventure-filled destinations: Aspen, CO.Joining me is my good friend, resident, entrepreneur, and founder of Alicia Adams Alpaca, Alicia Adams—whose luxurious alpaca pieces are just as warm and beautiful as she is.From sipping coffee at a café with “New York water” bagels to hiking breathtaking trails like American Lake and Smuggler, Alicia shares the best ways to experience Aspen year-round. Alicia reveals her favorite places to stay, from iconic spots like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome to charming boutique hotels, and talks about the outdoor adventures that make Aspen so special, including paddle boarding on Stillwater, mountain biking, fly fishing, and the must-do Wednesday night rodeo in Snowmass.This episode covers Aspen’s incredible food and drink scene, from cozy breakfasts and sushi with a view to insider cocktail spots, along with the best places to shop, like cowboy boots and hats at Kemo Sabe or unique finds at Carl’s Pharmacy.Alicia even gives us a taste of Aspen’s cultural side, with music festivals, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the peaceful John Denver Sanctuary.Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a winter ski trip, this episode is your backstage pass to experiencing Aspen like a local.And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

It’s hard to believe this summer marks the 50th anniversary of Jaws—the film that launched the summer blockbuster, introduced a then-unknown Steven Spielberg, and forever changed the way we look at the ocean… and for some of us, even swimming pools!Beyond the suspense, the unforgettable score, and one of the best movie lines of all time—“You’re gonna need a bigger boat”—Jaws had some unintended side effects. It fueled a global fear of sharks, spiked shark tournaments, and contributed to decades of overfishing.Today, I’m so excited to welcome someone who’s been there since the beginning—Wendy Benchley, widow of Jaws author Peter Benchley. From the writing of the book to the movie’s smashing box-office success, Wendy had a front-row seat. She has since dedicated her life to shark advocacy and ocean conservation.Wendy is a world-renowned environmentalist, co-founder of the Peter Benchey Ocean Awards, board member of WildAid, and a Co-Executive Producer of Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story – a brand-new documentary diving into the film’s legacy.Wendy and I talk about the powerful legacy of Jaws - not only as a film - but more importantly as a vehicle that has shown light on sharks and why they are such a critical part of our ocean’s ecosystem - one that must be advocated for and protected. Thanks in large part to her work, shark fin soup consumption in China is down an estimated 70–80%. The United Nations is now considering a resolution to protect marine life from overfishing on the high seas.Wendy is brilliant, passionate, and a true force for change. Whether you’re a Jaws fan or simply care about the future of our oceans, this is a conversation—and a documentary—you won’t want to miss.And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSORS: Corroon: Beautiful things for the well- traveled - Interview listeners get 20% off with the code "theinterview"Tenmile Distillery: Award-winning whisky - Interview listeners get 10% off with the code "THEINTERVIEW"Our Summer Travel Series continues this week with a stop in one of the most beautiful places in the country: Jackson Hole, Wyoming. And who better to guide us through it than Lela Rose — the iconic American fashion designer who somehow makes fly fishing, glamping, and entertaining look impossibly chic. In this conversation, Lela shares how she got started in the fashion world and how her creative life has evolved to include the Lela Rose Ranch, an old log cabin-turned-boutique in Wilson, WY, and two books on entertaining: Prêt-a-Party and Fresh Air Affairs. We talk about what to pack for a trip to Jackson, where to stay, her favorite local hikes, the best place to dine outdoors, and who to call if you want to try your hand at fly fishing. (She even sleeps outside every night in her own glamping tent — #goals.) Lela is a living, breathing reminder that creativity has no limits. Her love of vintage Western wear, her eye for beautiful design, and her zest for outdoor living all come together to paint a vivid picture of what life can look like when you blend style with nature. She’s a modern-day superwoman with an infectious spirit, and by the end of our talk, I was ready to book a flight and show up on her porch. This is truly one of the most joyful and inspiring episodes yet — I hope you’ll come along for the ride.Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSOR: Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all orders This week on The Interview, we continue our Summer Travel Series with a sun-soaked stop in the Hamptons—home to ocean breezes, classic Americana, and the ever-iconic Wölffer Estate Vineyard.I’m joined by the remarkable Joey Wölffer—entrepreneur, designer, equestrian, Co-Owner and Chief Brand Officer of Wölffer Estate. Together with her brother Marc, husband Max Rohn, and winemaker Roman Roth, Joey took over the family business in 2013, launching the now-famous Summer in a Bottle Rosé—a Hamptons essential that sells out each year and has become the fastest-growing rosé in NYC.In this episode, Joey shares what makes this corner of the world so magical—from sunset cocktails at the vineyard to her favorite restaurants, stores and beaches. We also talk about the amazing wines and work of Wölffer Estate Vineyard, meeting her husband on the train out to the Hamptons, balancing motherhood with all else that she does, and all of the wonderful and special things about this area of the world where she grew up spending her summers. Joey is self-deprecating, funny and smart - her love and knowledge of this part of the world shines through every part of our conversation.Whether you’re planning a trip to the Hamptons or just daydreaming of drinks at her vineyard or perfect beach sunsets, you’ll want to hit play on this episode.Stream the episode now wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram ⁠@TheInterviewWithLeslie⁠Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSOR: Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all ordersI’m briefly pausing my “Summer Travel Series” to explore a topic that’s gaining national attention: ketamine and ketamine therapy.You may have heard ketamine mentioned in the news—whether in connection with the death of Friends actor Matthew Perry, or Elon Musk publicly endorsing it. But beyond the headlines, there’s an emerging body of evidence showing that, when used therapeutically, ketamine can be life-changing for those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or alcohol use disorder.On a more personal note, I’ve had several friends undergo ketamine therapy with remarkable results. Their experiences sparked my curiosity and led me to explore this cutting-edge treatment in greater depth.That curiosity brought me to Nushama, a licensed ketamine therapy clinic in midtown Manhattan, where I sat down with two seasoned psychedelic psychotherapists: Eric Stonebergand Anisa Stechert.Between them, they’ve treated thousands of patients—ranging from 9/11 first responders and veterans to teenagers battling eating disorders and adults living with anxiety.In this episode, we cover it all: what ketamine is, which conditions it treats (including some powerful patient stories), how it rewires trauma in the brain, who qualifies as a candidate, and what a typical experience looks like at a clinic like Nushama.Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, I invite you to listen with an open mind. This conversation sheds light on a promising new tool in the mental health toolbox—one that could transform the way we approach healing.Stream the episode now wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSORS: Cozy Earth: Use code "INTERVIEW" for 40% off all ordersTenmile Distillery:Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off all ordersWe are finishing off this week with a conversation with renowned photographer and co-author of the acclaimed book, A Newport Summer, Nick Mele.Regarded as the Slim Aarons of our time, Nick is a summer resident of Newport. As someone who also spends time in the summer in Newport, I loved comparing notes with Nick about all of his favorite secret spots. Nick and I cover everything from walks, beaches, restaurants, places for cocktails, and all of the fantastic activities you can only do in Newport - from visiting Gilded Age Mansions to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, to coffee on mansion lawns on Sundays, to kayaking in the harbor to hear the Newport Folk Festival. Nick and I spent so much time discussing his impressive career before we got to our talk about Newport that I have decided to release that part of the conversation—about Nick’s work and career—later this summer.  But in the meantime, here is Nick sharing all of his insider tips on one of the all-time greatest summer towns - Newport! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

EPISODE SPONSORS: Tenmile Distillery: Use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your orderCozy Earth: Use code "INTERVIEW" for 40% off your orderI am very excited to bring you my third installment of this summer series. Today, we are featuring one of the world's favorite islands, Nantucket. Ashley McCormick, founder & CEO of the lifestyle brand ASHA, who is a life-long summer resident of Nantucket and who just opened a new ASHA store there this summer, is going to share with us all of her favorite spots to visit. In this episode, we discuss her favorite restaurants, places for lunch, coffee, and cocktails, great outings for kids, and her top picks for places to stay.We also share her favorite beach - keep it between us since she's afraid it will get discovered and become too crowded - but it's Ladies! ASHA is also a sponsor of Nantucket by Design, so if you're in Nantucket now or planning a visit this week, be sure to buy tickets! Our conversation made me want to jump on the next ferry!  After listening to this, you'll be right there with me!Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Episode Sponsors: Tenmile Distillery: All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout. Cozy Earth: use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. I'm so excited to share the latest installment in my Summer Travel Series—this time, we’re heading to one of my absolute favorite parts of the country: the Hudson Valley.My guest is the charming, witty, and incredibly talented Lidey Heuck—author of the hit cookbook Cooking in Real Lifeand a food writer for The New York Times. Lidey lives in the Hudson Valley with her young family and shares recipes, stories, and seasonal inspiration through her blog Lidey Likes and her Substack newsletter Lidey Letter.Lidey’s culinary journey began with none other than Ina Garten (yes, we talk about Jeffrey!), and since then, she’s established herself as a trusted voice in home cooking, known for recipes that are accessible and beyond delicious. Her debut cookbook, which came out this spring is one of my all-time favorites!In our conversation, we talk about her thoughtful approach to recipe writing, how she fell in love with the Hudson Valley, and even a few cautionary foraging tales. Naturally, we also dive into her favorite local spots—from antique stores and farmers markets to swimming holes and must-visit restaurants. As a former Hudson Valley resident myself, it was such a joy to compare notes and swap recommendations on the spots that make the region so special. We also highlight a few standouts in nearby Litchfield County and the Berkshires. Whether you’re planning a trip or just love dreaming about charming getaways, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode. Listen now! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

I hope you all had a great July 4th weekend. We are kicking off July with what I'm calling a summer series. I've asked insiders in certain summer communities to share their favorite secret spots and recommendations for places to stay, eat, and things to do.Who better to kick it off with than my wonderful friend Alexis Swanson Traina - back for her second time on the podcast to share all of her favorite spots from her hometown of Napa Valley, California.Alexis is not only the Founder of the modern communication app Hinote, but she is also the author of "From Napa with Love," a beautiful book that highlights all the amazing and magical people and spots in Napa. In this episode, Alexis and I discuss the towns of Napa, its wineries, her own love affair with Napa, and all the must-see places to visit, stay, and eat.  Whether you're planning a trip to Napa this summer or fall or just love to learn about this very special spot in our country - this is a great episode you won't want to miss!  EPISODE SPONSORS: Tenmile Distillery- use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout for 10% off all ordersCozy Earth - use code INTERVIEW for 40% off all ordersHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.