Kaatscast: the Catskills Podcast

In this episode, Brett hits the trail with longtime Catskill 3500 Club member (and current president) Michael Bongar for a hike to Southwest Hunter Mountain—one of the club’s required peaks and a rite of passage for aspiring members. Founded in 1962, the Catskill 3500 Club encourages hikers to summit 33 peaks over 3,500 feet—plus four of them again in winter. But it’s more than a checklist. Through trail maintenance, education, and conservation advocacy, the club fosters a deep connection to the Catskills.Michael shares stories from decades of hiking, reflects on the club’s evolution, and—yes—recounts his time as a professional clown, offering a surprisingly poignant parallel between performance and trail camaraderie. From herd paths to canisters, elevation gain to ethics, this episode is a love letter to the mountains and the community that keeps them wild.Catskill 3500 Club: https://www.catskill3500club.orgNew York-New Jersey Trail Conference Trail-A-Thon 2025: http://bit.ly/gotrailathon

🎙 Platte Clove Preserve: A Small Parcel with Big Impact  Presented by Kaatscast: The Catskills PodcastHost Brett Barry visits the Platte Clove Preserve with Jeff Senterman and Kali Bird of the Catskill Center to explore the surprising significance of a newly acquired 3.6-acre parcel. Though small in size, this land plays a vital role in preserving wilderness access, ecological integrity, and the scenic character of the Catskills. The episode also reflects on Jeff and Kali’s 10-year journey with the Catskill Center and its evolving role in advocacy, stewardship, and community engagement.🔗 Resources & Mentions • Catskill Center – catskillcenter.org • Hanford Mills Museum – hanfordmills.org • Briars & Brambles Books – briarsandbramblesbooks.com • Mountain Eagle News – mountaineaglenews@gmail.com🎧 Credits Producer/Host: Brett Barry Guests: Jeff Senterman & Kali Bird Transcript: Jerome Kazlauskas Announcements: Campbell Brown Production: Silver Hollow Audio More info: kaatscast.com | Instagram: @kaatscast

Adjacent to the Willowemoc Wild Forest, in the Sullivan Catskills, a 3100-acre parcel once eyed for development is now safeguarded for future generations. In this episode, we chronicle the Open Space Institute’s landmark deal, and potentially the largest acquisition for the Catskills in nearly 25 years.From the quiet negotiations with landowners to the sweeping implications for climate resilience and watershed health, this episode dives deep into what makes Blue Hill so important to the region. Key highlights include:Behind-the-scenes details on how OSI’s team identified and secured the propertyThe role of Blue Hill in protecting coldwater streams critical to downstream communitiesA look back at Blue Hill’s brushes with development, including a ski resort derailed by liquor restrictions What the public can expect in terms of access, trails, and community engagementReflections on regional conservation wins and what they signal for the futureHear from Tom Gravel, OSI's Northeast Project Manager, and Charlie Burgess, OSI’s Northern NY Stewardship Manager about OSI's strategic land acquisitions—and how they are advancing New York’s commitment to conserve 30% of its lands and waters by 2030 under the state’s 30x30 initiative.

How does the botanical elegance of a 19th-century artist find new life in contemporary design?In this episode of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast, host Brett Barry follows the enduring influence of Emily Cole—daughter of Hudson River School painter Thomas Cole—whose delicate hand-painted ceramics helped define her artistic legacy. Cole was a founding member of the New York Society of Ceramic Arts in 1892, and she advocated for china painting to be recognized as fine art. Her floral porcelain was “highly prized and much sought after,” admired for its lifelike detail and expressive form.In a special pop-up collaboration, tattoo artist Kelsey Lue brought Cole’s botanical watercolors—on exhibit at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site—into a new medium. Clients at Hummingbird Tattoo were invited to choose from Emily Cole–inspired designs, bridging past and present through artistic interpretation.The exhibit, titled EMILY COLE: Ceramics, Flora & Contemporary Responses, is on view at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site from May 3 to November 2, 2025.Featuring insights from curator Amanda Malmstrom and moments from the tattoo chair, this episode celebrates Emily Cole’s creative spirit and the artists who continue her legacy through reimagined design.Guests:Kelsey Lue – Tattoo artist, Hummingbird TattooAmanda Malmstrom – Associate Curator, Thomas Cole National Historic SiteJaime Pedersen – Tattoo clientLinks:Hummingbird Tattoo: https://www.hummingbirdtattoo.comThomas Cole National Historic Site (Emily Cole exhibit): https://thomascole.orgFollow Kaatscast: Instagram: @kaatscast Newsletter & archives: https://kaatscast.com

Is leaving the woods alone really the best way to preserve them? According to forester Ryan Trapani of the Catskill Forest Association, “doing nothing” comes with hidden costs—and a whole lot of shade-loving trees. In this immersive forest consultation, Ryan pays a visit to host Brett Barry's property to explore hands-on stewardship, the limits of laissez-faire ecology, and the surprising power of sunlight in shaping forest health.In this episode:How to spot hazard trees before they fall (and cost you)Why “doing nothing” might be the worst forest strategyTree-for-tree advice on pruning, spacing, and crop tree managementSunlight as a limiting factor in Catskill forest healthTips for invasive pest management: ash decline & hemlock woolly adelgidCFA’s hands-on services, from mushroom inoculation to apple graftingPlus, hear Ryan’s reflections on 700+ episodes of From the Forest radio—and learn how CFA’s independent, community-driven model helps landowners steward their properties with purpose.More info: 🌿 catskillforest.org 📡 CFA’s radio show: fromtheforest.podbean.comPlease keep in touch at kaatscast.com, rate and review on the podcast app of your choice, and follow us on Instagram.

Sure, you can drive from NYC to the Catskills in just under 3 hours. But as "Doobby," the taxi driver in Planes, Trains and Automobiles says, "You don't see nothing on the interstate but interstate." In this episode, host Brett Barry walks with ⁠Casey Kelbaugh⁠ on a stretch of the "Long Path," a 358-mile trail from the George Washington Bridge in New York City to the edge of the Adirondack Park. Casey recounts his 27-day hike from East 4th Street in Manhattan to his cabin in the Catskills via the Long Path, an experience he then ⁠shared in the travel section of the New York Times⁠. 00:00 Introduction to the Catskills Voyage00:15 Discovering the Long Path00:52 Sponsors and Supporters01:30 Casey's Journey Begins02:18 Hiking the Long Path05:40 Challenges and Reflections13:16 Community and Connections26:02 The Final Stretch29:19 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Exploring Howes Cave: History, Tragedy, and TourismHistorian and author Dana Cudmore, a former tour guide and current chronicler of Howes Cave, Howe Caverns, and Schoharie County's "Cave Country," gives us a lay of the land and recalls the oft-repeated question, " Anybody ever die down here?" Cudmore recounts in his 2024 book, The Cave Electrician’s Widow: The Tragedy at Howe Caverns & Dramatic Courtroom Fight for Justice, the story of two Howe Caverns employees who tragically asphyxiated in response to a nearby dynamite blast on April 24, 1930. The conversation describes the events of that tragic day, as well as the continuing allure and industrial significance of the caves and surrounding area. Buy a copy of The Cave Electrician's Widow here, and use code KAATSCAST for 25% off plus free shipping!Enter here for a chance to win a signed copy!00:00 Introduction: The Popular Question00:16 History of Howe Caverns02:04 Touring Cave Country03:18 Lester Howe's Discovery of Howe Caverns06:20 Secret Caverns and Fraternal Rivalries11:17 The 1930 Tragedy21:56 Modern-Day Mining in Howes Cave22:52 Conclusion and Author's Reflections

This episode of Kaatscast features an interview with Don Dales, a key figure in transforming Hobart, New York, into Hobart Book Village. The journey began with a single bookstore in a declining village and expanded into a book lovers' destination with seven bookstores, the Book Village Inn & Bar, and annual events, attracting visitors from far and wide. Dales discusses the initial challenges, community resistance, and the eventual success that turned Hobart into a thriving literary hub in The Catskills' Delaware County.00:00 Introduction to Hobart Book Village00:24 The History of Hobart and Its Bookstores01:58 Interview with Don Dales06:21 The Decline and Revival of Hobart10:18 The Book Village Concept Takes Shape17:19 The Impact of Media and Future Prospects23:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Captain Drewski of the Delhi Polecats, formerly known as the Delhi Vintage Baseball Club, joins us to discuss the revival of vintage baseball in Delaware County, New York. Drewski shares the historical significance of a 200-year-old baseball challenge documented in an 1825 edition of the Delaware Gazette, marking the earliest recorded organized game of baseball in the United States. The Hamden 9, as part of the town's bicentennial celebrations, continue the tradition of playing baseball by 1800s rules using period-accurate attire and equipment. For more on Hamden, NY's bicentennial celebration, head over to hamden1825.org. Tune in to learn more about the history, teams, and events that honor this unique variation of America's pastime; plus, an investigation into the claim that a Catskills paper was the very first to put a baseball game in print!For even more, check out an episode we produced in 2021 with the M.A.C.'s Collin "Stumpy" Miller during spring practice on Creamery Field in Bovina, NY. 00:00 Introduction to Vintage Baseball in Delaware County01:00 Meet the Hamden 9: A New Vintage Baseball Team01:32 The Historical Significance of 1825 in Hamden02:03 Sponsorship and Support for Vintage Baseball02:40 Formation and Growth of the Delhi Polecats06:10 The Unique Charm of Vintage Baseball06:51 Debating the Origins of Baseball07:57 The 1825 Baseball Challenge in Hamden09:12 Celebrating Hamden's Bicentennial13:24 The Rise of Vintage Baseball in the Catskills18:22 Upcoming Events and Invitations19:14 Listener Feedback and Conclusion

This episode explores an overnight camping trip led by Melissa Goodwin, a licensed guide and founder of 'Girl Gotta Hike,' aimed at encouraging women to connect with the outdoors. Olivia Sippel, our production intern, shares her first camping experience in the Catskills, guided by Melissa, also known by her trail name 'Click.' The story delves into how Melissa's passion for hiking evolved, and the creation of her hiking service, with a focus on women and accessibility. The episode highlights their journey, history and insights from the Appalachian Trail, and the impact of outdoor adventures on personal growth.00:00 Introduction to Public Transit Hiking00:44 Olivia's First Camping Experience01:23 Melissa's Trail Name and Appalachian Trail Journey04:38 Signing In and Exploring the Trail07:56 Trail Lunch and Devil's Path10:53 The Birth of Girl Gotta Hike24:36 Conclusion and ReflectionsFor stories about trailblazing women of the 19th century, check out Purple Mountain Press's new edition of Breaking Trail: Remarkable Women of the Adirondacks. Enter code KAATSCAST for 25% off + free shipping through 5/31/2025.

Kaatscast spoke with Cornell University researchers about their latest investigations into New York State bobcat population abundance and the discovery of avian influenza (bird flu) in these wild felines. Featuring Jenny Bloodgood, a wildlife veterinarian, and Haley Turner, a Cornell graduate student, the podcast explores their collaborative efforts to assess bobcat abundance and health using GPS collar tagging and camera trap stations. The discussion highlights various diseases affecting bobcats, including avian influenza, which has been detected in several sampled animals. The conversation also touches on historical challenges faced by bobcats, conservation efforts, and the implications of their findings for wildlife management.---00:00 Introduction to Bobcat Research01:41 Meet the Researchers04:35 Bobcat Population History05:41 Research Methods and Findings12:43 Health and Disease in Bobcats17:09 Impact of Avian Influenza29:30 Human Influence and Conservation37:21 Conclusion and Future Research---Cover photo courtesy of Joshua Twining

Exploring the Magical World of Mushrooms with Catskill Fungi's John MichelottiIn this episode of Kaatscast, host Brett Barry interviews John Michelotti, mushroom maven and founder of Catskill Fungi. John draws listeners into the enchanting and complex world of fungi, sharing his journey from an outdoor guide to becoming an enthusiastic mycology educator. Recorded at Catskill Fungi's commercial kitchen in Pine Hill, the episode delves into the life cycle of mushrooms, their ecological roles, cultivation methods, and the mysteries of mycelium. John discusses the various types of mushrooms found in the Catskills, including edible, poisonous, and even mind-altering varieties. The episode also highlights the health benefits of mushroom extracts from varieties like Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Chaga. John is one one of the Catskill Center's "50 Stewards of the Catskills." Oh, and he's a super "fun-guy." Mwah-ha-ha!00:00 Introduction to Seasonal Mushrooms00:26 Meet John Michelotti: The Mushroom Maven01:37 The Journey to Mushroom Mastery05:55 Understanding Fungi and Mycelium08:43 The Ecological Role of Fungi16:51 Mushroom Cultivation Techniques18:58 Edible and Toxic Mushrooms23:57 Mushroom Identification and Walks24:41 Mushroom Foraging Adventures25:17 Fungi Cultivation Workshops25:57 Diversity of Edible Mushrooms26:19 Mushroom Production in the US27:36 Identifying Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms29:14 Psychedelic Mushrooms in the Catskills32:03 Processing Mushrooms into Extracts38:26 Health Benefits of Mushroom Extracts44:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

Newly appointed Ulster County historian Eddie Moran discusses the role of a municipal historian and emphasizes the importance of presenting a complete and accurate history that includes all groups, with one such focus on the indigenous Lenape people. Moran, a SUNY New Paltz graduate and descendant of the region's Huguenot and Dutch colonists, shares his experiences working with various local organizations to expand the historical narrative. The episode also features a tour of the Ulster County Hall of Records led by archivist Jonathan Palmer, exploring the extensive archival collections and discussing the preservation and digitization efforts.00:00 Introduction and Context00:27 Meet Eddie Moran: Ulster County's New Historian01:38 Eddie's Journey and Passion for History06:55 The Role and Responsibilities of a County Historian10:54 Challenges and Goals in Historical Narratives16:50 Exploring the Ulster County Hall of Records19:34 Preserving History: Techniques and Challenges27:38 Significant Historical Documents and Their Stories38:55 Conclusion and Credits---Audio recording by Izzy SchuylerBehind-the-scenes video by Ruby Zuckerman

The Overlook, a new nonprofit newspaper, describes itself as "community journalism serving Hunter, Hurley, Olive, Saugerties, Shandaken and Woodstock."At a time when newspapers in America are disappearing at a rate of about 2.5 per week, The Overlook is attempting to buck that trend with community coverage and investigative reporting, served up weekly, in a free subscription model.Join us for a conversation with its inaugural Editor-in-chief, Noah Eckstein, who's taking the lead in shaping a promising new publication in a part of the Catskills where news coverage is sparse. Listen to the end, where we hear from 3 Kaatscast listeners who called in with reaction to our last show, "Wireless Watershed," about major communications gaps in the region. Please keep in touch, at kaatscast.com, and on Instagram: @kaatscast

In a new effort to enhance communications in the Catskills, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is partnering with New York's ConnectALL initiative to expand wireless and broadband access throughout the New York City watershed. The initiative was motivated by operational challenges faced by DEP staff due to poor cell coverage, and a recent Request for Information (RFI) seeks input from telecommunications providers and other stakeholders on how to eliminate cell phone dead zones. In this episode, DEP Commissioner Rohit "Rit" Aggarwala and Water Supply Deputy Commissioner Paul Rush join host Brett Barry for a discussion about the RFI; why a robust communications network is increasingly crucial; and how a network could be built to benefit everyone in the region.To put the complicated NYC/Catskills relationship into context, we check in with Lize Mogel––producer of the podcast series, Views from the Watershed––for a fascinating historical perspective. We also hear from local Town Clerk Joyce Grant, whose anecdotal evidence illustrates just how dangerous cellular dead zones can be in the remote Catskills, where land lines and cable internet can also be scarce. Grant is frustrated by what she characterizes as a minority of residents who are opposed to cell towers marring the mountain landscape. Referring to a proposal for a tower to be built in Shandaken, she says, "It's going to be a pole that's 85 feet tall, and it may be viewable above the trees... but it's a pole... that could save lives. We have to look at it like that."For more than a century, the Catskills have provided New York City with billions of gallons of clean drinking water. Will NYC be the unlikely partner that –– finally –– brings wireless coverage to the Catskills? 00:00 Intro00:26 NYC DEP's Wireless Communication Initiative01:44 Joyce Grant's Pursuit for Better Communication07:17 Challenges of Cell Service in the Catskills10:34 Community Efforts and Future Plans15:12 The Catskills and NYC Water Connection16:15 The "Takings" and Eminent Domain19:06 The 1990s MOA and Water Quality23:29 Controversial Land Acquisition Program24:24 City's Land Ownership and Broadband Infrastructure24:56 New York City's Evolving Relationship with the Catskills25:37 DEP's Land Purchase Strategy27:46 Recreation and Utility Easements on City Land29:11 Challenges and Opportunities for Broadband Expansion32:06 Future of Wireless Communications in the Catskills34:41 Funding and Implementation of Broadband Project36:22 Historical Context and Technological Evolution38:50 Public Engagement and Relationship Building43:42 Climate Change and Water Supply45:36 Personal Reflections and Memories of the Catskills49:37 Conclusion and Podcast Information

Exploring the Legacy of Clayton 'Peg Leg' Bates: The One-Legged Dancing LegendIn this live episode of Kaatscast, recorded at theEmerson Resort & Spa on November 8, 2024, host Brett Barry engages in a detailed discussion with Elinor Levy,Folk Arts Program Manager at Arts Mid Hudson, about the life and legacy of Clayton 'Peg Leg' Bates.The show explores Bates' inspiring journey from losing a leg in a cotton gin accident at the age of 12 to becoming one of the most celebrated tap dancers, performing on Broadway and appearing on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' at least 21 times.Elinor shares insights from her research, Bates' entrepreneurial venture in establishing an interracial resort in the Catskills, and his impact on the Black community. The episode includes personal anecdotes, clips from a documentary about Bates, and audience Q&A, enriching the narrative of Bates' remarkable resilience and contribution to the arts.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:38 Discovering Peg Leg Bates01:36 Clayton Bates' Early Life and Career03:07 Elinor Levy's Journey with Peg Leg Bates04:53 The Peg Leg Bates Exhibit06:45 Peg Leg Bates' Performances and Legacy13:11 The Peg Leg Bates Resort18:32 Community Impact and Personal Stories24:56 The Decline of the Resort30:44 Audience Q&A41:06 Closing Remarks and CreditsLinks:⁠The Dancing Man documentary⁠⁠Arts Mid-Hudson Folk Collection on Peg Leg Bates⁠⁠Saints of Swing with David Winograd and Miss Rene Bailey⁠

Justin Kolb is an accomplished pianist who began playing at the age of four. Now 82, Justin continues to practice almost daily and performs intimate house concerts called "From the Bench," showcasing music "by living American composers as well as music that lives in undeserved obscurity." Justin shares vivid memories from his early competitions to his debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and recounts his time in the military where he balanced service with a budding concert career. After a successful stint in the business world, Justin returned to his passion for music, performing globally and conducting house concerts that are always a sellout. Tune in to hear about Justin’s extraordinary journey and his deep connection to the piano, culminating in a life dedicated to evoking emotion through music. 00:00 Introduction to Justin Kolb 01:04 Early Life and First Piano Lessons 02:19 Competitions and Early Success 05:04 Military Service and European Debut 08:54 Post-Military Career and Business Ventures 10:44 Return to Music and Retirement 13:10 From the Bench Concert Series 17:54 Reflections on Music and Practice 22:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

Grilled Cheese with a Twist: Lunch and Jam with New York First Lady Silda Wall Spitzer Join us for a delightful culinary and conversational journey with Silda Wall Spitzer in her Hudson Valley home. In this episode, we explore Silda's gourmet jam business and taste a unique grilled cheese featuring brie and blueberry elderflower jam. Silda shares memories of how her jam-making journey began, her experiences as the former First Lady of New York, and her ongoing passion for sustainability and community service. Discover the blend of flavors in Silda's Jam, the ethos behind her entrepreneurship, and the stories that continue to inspire her work. 00:00 Introduction to a Gourmet Grilled Cheese 01:06 Meet Silda Wall Spitzer 01:42 The Origins of Silda's Jam 05:43 From First Lady to Jam Entrepreneur 06:29 Balancing Public and Private Life 10:05 Sustainability Initiatives in the Executive Mansion 13:18 A Diverse Career Beyond Albany 15:29 Innovations in Jam Making 17:53 Local Ingredients and Community Impact 19:19 Conclusion and Tasting the Grilled Cheese 21:44 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The episode explores a long-standing tradition of square dancing at the Chase (now Sparer) family home and barn, in Ashokan. Host Brett Barry and production intern Olivia Sippel put on their dancing shoes and joined the fun, recording tales of traditional Catskills square dancing, and the musicians who are passing it down to a new generation of enthusiasts. Fiddler and caller Earl Pardini leads the festivities at this particular event, which goes back to the 1970s. The barn where it's held has all the warmth and joviality of a Charles Dickens scene, and we felt very much welcomed into a mostly friends-and-family affair. Featuring conversations with the Chase and Sparer families, the episode highlights deep-rooted Catskills traditions and includes insights from folklorist Ginny Shear and square dance caller Dane Scudder, who learned to "call" from a legend. The episode is sponsored by Ulster Savings Bank, the Mountain Eagle, and Briars & Brambles Books. And if you're interested in joining our new member-listener program, we'd love to welcome you! 00:00 The Thanksgiving Square Dance Tradition 00:31 A Warm Welcome to the Chase Family Barn 01:37 The Origins of the Square Dance Tradition 02:55 The Sparer Family Continues the Legacy 03:48 Generational Memories of Square Dancing 05:24 Earl Pardini: The Fiddler and Caller 08:19 The Cultural Significance of Square Dancing 09:43 Fostering Traditional Catskills Square Dancing 11:55 The Future of Square Dancing 15:06 Concluding Thoughts and Future Adventures 15:37 Support and Sponsors

Unveiling the Mysteries of the North American Porcupine In this episode of 'Kaatscast,' host Brett Barry delves into the fascinating world of the North American porcupine with Uldis Roze, the world's foremost expert on this mysterious and lovable Catskills rodent. Hear about the porcupine's habitat preferences, diet, mating behaviors, and unique defense mechanisms. Roze addresses common misconceptions, shares personal encounters, and reveals insights from his decades-long research, including the discovery of the molecule responsible for the porcupine's distinctive smell. The episode is sponsored by Ulster Savings Bank, the Mountain Eagle, and Briars & Brambles Books, where you might consider requesting a copy of Uldis's book, The North American Porcupine! 00:00 Introduction to Porcupines in the Catskills 00:43 Meet Uldis Roze: Porcupine Expert 01:41 Porcupine Basics and Misconceptions 03:18 From Chemistry to Mammalogy 04:53 First Encounters with Porcupines 06:04 The Lifelong Study of Porcupines 07:00 Porcupine Defense Mechanisms 12:22 Capturing and Studying Porcupines 20:39 Porcupine Classification and Evolution 24:11 Porcupine Mating and Reproduction 27:04 Winter Survival Strategies 30:34 Threats to Porcupine Population 33:25 Personal Stories and Reflections 39:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -- Image of "Musa" courtesy of Uldis Roze Click here for a bonus clip of the "porcupine house."