Best Underground Playground Podcasts (2025)

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Ultralight, All Heart: Adirondack Pack Canoes by Hornbeck 1:06:28

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3d ago1:06:28

1:06:28

Ultralight, All Heart: Adirondack Pack Canoes by Hornbeck Guest: Josh Trombley, head of Hornbeck Boats Topic: The Adirondack pack canoe—past, present, and why it changes how (and how often) people get on the water. Hornbeck Boats began in the 1970s with founder Pete Hornbeck, a paddler-artist who revived the Adirondack tradition of pack boats—open,…

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Freedom’s Path: Inside the North Star Underground Railroad Museum 42:01

17d ago42:01

42:01

Step inside the North Star Underground Railroad Museum with President Jacqueline “Jackie” Madison of the North Country Underground Historical Association. We trace the Champlain Line of the Underground Railroad through the stories of real people and places—John Thomas’s journey to freedom, the Quakers’ moral stand, and local heroes like editor Wend…

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Molten Magic: Adirondack Glassblowing Turns Up the Heat in North Creek 36:37

24d ago36:37

36:37

Discover the unique and fiery world of glassblowing in North Creek, NY, with Greg Tomb, the passionate owner of Adirondack Glassblowing Studio. From the warm glow of the furnaces to the hands-on workshops, Greg shares how visitors can shape molten glass into their own keepsakes. We delve into his journey from Corning-inspired beginnings to teaching…

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Chasing Colors: The Adirondacks’ Best Fall Adventures 43:45

1M ago43:45

43:45

ADK Talks: Chasing Colors: The Adirondacks' Best Fall Adventures In this brisk, handy fall guide, we map the Adirondacks region by region—from Lake George up through the High Peaks and out to the Adirondack Coast—sharing on-the-ground tips, quick stories, and can't-miss events. Fall in the Adirondacks is peak season — and we've got your insider's g…

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A Force for Nature: David Gibson on Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Legacy 53:48

1M ago53:48

53:48

A Force for Nature: David Gibson on Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Legacy What does it take to protect six million acres of wild Adirondack Park? In this episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with David Gibson, conservation leader and author of A Force for Nature: Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Coalitions. Gibson takes us deep into the remarkable story of Paul…

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The Sembrich: Music, History & Lake George’s Golden Age of Opera 46:31

2M ago46:31

46:31

Step into the Golden Age of Opera — without leaving the Adirondacks. In this episode of ADK Talks, Jane and Steve sit down with Caleb Eck, Director of Institutional Advancement at The Sembrich, a lakeside museum, performance venue, and cultural retreat in Bolton Landing, NY. Discover the remarkable life of Marcella Sembrich, the Polish coloratura s…

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Guiding Light: Adirondack Guide Matt Burnett on Living, Working & Creating in the Adirondacks 59:14

2M ago59:14

59:14

What happens when you grow up in the heart of the Adirondack Park, spend your life paddling its waterways, hiking its backcountry, and painting its moods—and then decide to share that world with others? That’s the life of Adirondack guide and artist Matt Burnett, whose work on the water and in the studio captures both the wild beauty and the human …

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Our Best Travel Tips - Lake George Edit: Where to Stay, What to See, and What to Skip. 52:39

2M ago52:39

52:39

Our Best Travel Tips - Lake George Edit: Where to Stay, What to See, and What to Skip. Planning a trip to Lake George? This episode is for you. Jane and Steve crack open the listener mailbag and serve up answers to your most-asked questions about where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in the iconic Lake George region. You’ll learn: The differe…

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Preserving Place: Stories Behind the Adirondack Architecture We Love 1:00:52

2M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

Preserving Place: Stories Behind the Adirondack Architecture We Love Step back in time—and into the future of preservation. In this spirited episode of ADK Talks, Jane and Steve sit down with Erin Tobin, Executive Director of Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), to uncover the unique and fascinating stories hidden in the Adirondacks’ historic…

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Salt, Science & Stewardship: The Adirondack Council's Fight for the Park’s Future 50:35

3M ago50:35

50:35

What happens in the Adirondacks doesn’t always start in the Adirondacks—it can flow into our air, water, communities, and climate from coal-fired power plants far, far away from our lakes and forests. In this powerful episode of ADK Talks, hosts Jane and Steve sit down with John Sheehan, Director of Communications for the Adirondack Council, to exp…

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Your Adirondack Travel Questions, Answered: Tri-Lakes & High Peaks Edit 46:25

3M ago46:25

46:25

In this listener-fueled episode of ADK Talks, Jane and Steve dive deep into your Adirondack travel questions, focusing on the Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region: Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for the views, you'll get expert tips on where to stay, eat, shop, hike, and sip like a local…

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Scrums, Suds, and Saranac Lake: The Spirit of Can-Am Rugby 35:32

3M ago35:32

35:32

Every summer, the quiet charm of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid erupts in a joyful scrum of community pride, fierce competition, and unmatched camaraderie. That’s right—it’s time for the legendary Can-Am Rugby Tournament. In this episode of ADK Talks, hosts Jane and Steve delve into the heart of this beloved Adirondack tradition with Cameron Moody, t…

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High Notes in the High Peaks: Behind the Curtain at the Seagle Festival 1:05:03

3M ago1:05:03

1:05:03

What happens when world-class opera collides with the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks? In this episode of ADK Talks, we pull back the curtain on the Seagle Festival—America’s oldest summer vocal training program, a cultural institution with a rich legacy, tucked away in the charming village of Schroon Lake, NY. Hosts Jane and Steve of ADKtaste.com…

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Loons, Lakes & Lessons—A Conservation Conversation Returns 57:23

4M ago57:23

57:23

In this powerful follow-up to one of ADK Talks’ most downloaded episodes, Jane and Steve welcome back Denise Silfie from the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation in Saranac Lake. Denise shares updates on loon research, insights from the annual Loon Census, and the ongoing challenges of lead tackle for loons and humans, climate change, and shorel…

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Breaking Trail: Women Who Shaped the Adirondacks 35:49

4M ago35:49

35:49

What does it mean to break trail—not just through snow or forest, but through history itself? In this enlightening episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the pages of the newly updated "Breaking Trail: Remarkable Women of the Adirondacks". This powerful collection of stories celebrates women who have left an indelible mark on the region, challenging i…

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GOODBYE NINTENDO SWITCH – Vic’s Basement Special Episode w/ Jake Baldino, Parris Lilly, Danny Peña, Naomi Kyle, Shaun Hatton, Kit & Krysta, Game Sack and many more!

4M ago

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#thelegendofzeldatearsofthekingdom #supermarioodyssey #mariokart8deluxe On the eve of the launch of Nintendo Switch 2, Victor Lucas is joined by friends from across the game industry to say “Sayonara to the Switch.” Thank you to: @NintendoDads @EasyAllies @JakeBaldino @naomikyle @GameSack @CarpoolGaming @Megashaun @gamertagradio @marcello696 @kitan…

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Walls Between Waters: Art, History, and Transformation in Ticonderoga 33:55

4M ago33:55

33:55

What happens when history, art, and community transformation converge on six brick walls in Ticonderoga, NY? In this episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with Nicole Justice Green, Executive Director of the Essex County Land Bank, to explore the story behind Walls Between Waters—a bold new mural project and public event that’s turning once-vacant buil…

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Kneading Change: How Triple Green Jade Farm is Rising Together 42:59

5M ago42:59

42:59

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

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Cabin Comfort with a Vintage Vibe: Inside Northwood Cabins in Tupper Lake 58:01

5M ago58:01

58:01

In this episode of ADK Talks, we’re heading to Tupper Lake, where we sit down with Brian Burns, the owner, with his wife Renee, of the beloved Northwood Cabins. Located along Route 30, a stone's throw from the heart of Tupper Lake and the glistening waters of Raquette Pond, Northwood Cabins is not just a place to rest your head. It's a captivating …

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Lake George Land Conservancy: Protecting the Land That Protects Lake George 57:17

5M ago57:17

57:17

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

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Reviving a Legend: The Schroon Lake Department Store’s New Era 49:57

5M ago49:57

49:57

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

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Mountains to Highlands: War Cannon’s Distilling Magic and Burns Night Bash 1:04:02

6M ago1:04:02

1:04:02

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

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Cloudsplitters and Spy Thrillers: Books that Capture the ADK 31:13

6M ago31:13

31:13

Can't make it to the Adirondacks? No worries! In this episode of ADK Talks, we embark on a literary expedition through the mountains, exploring books that capture the essence of the Adirondack experience. From thrilling tales set in the heart of the wilderness to insightful narratives about the region's rich history, we've curated a reading list th…

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Savoring Tradition at Oscar's Adirondack Smokehouse 1:06:38

7M ago1:06:38

1:06:38

In this mouthwatering episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with Joq Quintal, who, along with his family, has been operating Oscar’s Smokehouse for three generations. Oscar’s, a Southern Adirondacks institution, has tantalized taste buds for over 80 years. From its legendary smoked bacon and 7-year-aged sharp cheddar to fan-favorite sausages and jerky,…

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Echoes from the Beyond: Paranormal Investigations in the Adirondack Park 1:44:32

7M ago1:44:32

1:44:32

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

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Dishing the Dirt With a Farm-to-Table Chef: The Deer's Head Inn 38:05

7M ago38:05

38:05

In this episode, we speak with Spencer Coplan, the head chef at the historic Deer’s Head Inn in Elizabethtown. Spencer shares the joys of leading a kitchen that showcases local, regional, and sustainably produced foods. The Deer’s Head Inn is ideally located in the Adirondacks' "breadbasket" within the Champlain Valley. Local farms and orchards pro…

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The Gilded Age Meets the Great Outdoors: A Deep Dive into Great Camp Sagamore 1:02:57

7M ago1:02:57

1:02:57

Step back in time to an era of lavish retreats and untamed wilderness. In this episode, we uncover the rich history of the iconic Adirondack great camp Sagamore—once the private getaway of the Vanderbilt family. Explore the intriguing blend of luxury and nature, shaping a unique legacy of rustic elegance. From grand lodges to hidden trails, we expl…

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Lights, Camera, Adirondacks! 40:14

7M ago40:14

40:14

When watching a movie or TV show, have you ever felt the sensation the place on the screen looks very familiar? You might be surprised to learn about the movies and TV series filmed in the Adirondacks. In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Greater Adirondack Film Commissioner Eric Granger. He shares the behind-the-scenes stories o…

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Chasing Waterfalls 33:52

8M ago33:52

33:52

In this episode of ADK Talks, we visit High Falls Gorge in Wilmington, New York, at the base of White Face Mountain, one of the Adirondacks' iconic High Peaks. Just a stone's throw from Lake Placid, High Falls Gorge offers a unique experience where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Adirondacks, come up close to spectacular waterf…

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Hot Business, Cool Idea : The Mobile Sauna That’s Warming Up the ADKs 49:31

8M ago49:31

49:31

In this episode of ADK Talks, we speak with Yvonne West, founder and owner of On The Equator Sauna Rentals in the Lake George region of the Adirondacks. On the Equator has a mobile sauna that they bring to clients so they can experience the benefits of sauna at home. Yvonne shares her story of how she came up with the idea for a mobile sauna servic…

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Episode 323 – RYAN PAYTON INTERVIEW – The Making of Batman: Arkham Shadow – Vic’s Basement 1:21:03

9M ago1:21:03

1:21:03

Victor Lucas sits down with the studio head of Meta’s Camouflaj studio, Ryan Payton, to discuss the making of the incredible Batman: Arkham Shadow and so much more. Watch EPN: YouTube.com/EPNtv EP on Facebook (for contests): Facebook.com/ElectricPlayground EPN Live: Twitch.tv/EPN EPN Shorts: tiktok.com/@theelectricplayground Official EPN Merch: EPN…

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Art in Lake George: The Courthouse Gallery's Unique Voice 46:48

10M ago46:48

46:48

In this episode of ADK Talks, June Waters, Director of Exhibitions at Lake George Arts Project’s Courthouse Gallery, the only year-round cultural institution in Lake George Village, helps us explore the artistic side of Lake George. We learn about the history of this venue for modernist and contemporary art, how artists come to exhibit at the galle…

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Carving Tracks at Gore Mountain: The Ultimate Adirondack Winter Sports Experience 46:41

10M ago46:41

46:41

In this episode of ADK Talks, we have a fascinating conversation with Ian Tomasch from Gore Mountain, New York’s largest ski area. Located in the heart of the Adirondacks in North Creek, NY, Gore Mountain boasts a rich history of catering to skiers, snowboarders, and winter sports enthusiasts in the southern Adirondacks. In this episode, you’ll hea…

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Adirondack Cool Meets Hell’s Kitchen Heat: Inside Billy Trudsoe’s Kitchen. 41:41

10M ago41:41

41:41

In this episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the Adirondack’s unique culinary culture with a sizzling conversation with Chef and Adirondack restaurateur Billy Trudsoe, proprietor of Lizzie Keays Kitchen and Cocktails in Warrensburgh and Basil & Wick's in North Creek. We hear about Billy’s journey from a drive-in king to head chef at top restaurants …

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EP’s 2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE! – Featuring PNP Games’ Lee Skwarek – 50+ Awesome Games and Great Deals – Vic’s Basement 2:44:34

10M ago2:44:34

2:44:34

Victor Lucas is joined by Lee Skwarek from PNP Games to discuss great gift ideas + some massive savings on videogames for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox and PC! Find deals on almost every game mentioned in this show at https://pnpgamesonline.com! Thank you for supporting the partners that support The Electric Playground! TIME CODES: PLAYSTATION…

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Whispers in the Woods: Paranormal Pursuits in the Adirondacks 54:00

11M ago54:00

54:00

In this special Halloween episode of ADK Talks, we delve into some of the Adirondacks' top haunted spots—places where people report having seen ghosts or experienced the paranormal. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Hotel Saranac, one of USA TODAY’S Top 10 Best Haunted Hotels in America Saratoga Homestead Rhinelander Estate Adirondac - Tahawus Ha…

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Into the Wild: Search and Rescue in the Adirondacks 57:10

12M ago57:10

57:10

In this ADK Talks episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Jeff Berry and Elena Lumby, two dedicated members of Search and Rescue in the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK). SARNAK is an all-volunteer organization based in Saranac Lake, primarily serving the Upstate New York region. It works closely with NYS DEC’s Forest Rangers, who, in addition …

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Leaf-Peeping & Beyond: Top Ideas for Fall Fun in the Adirondacks 35:08

1y ago35:08

35:08

In this ADK Talks episode, we recommend top autumn activities in the Adirondacks. From foliage to festivals, we share our favorite things to do in the fall in the ADK. While the list of great things to do in the Adirondacks is almost endless, our listeners have been asking us to share our favorites. Who are we to say no? Our Top 10 list includes: G…

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Voices in the Wilderness: Loon Conservation in the Adirondacks 58:36

1y ago58:36

58:36

In this episode of ADK Talks, we connect with Denise Silfee, the Education and Communications Director at the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation in Saranac Lake, New York. The Common Loon, specifically Adirondack loons, is a favorite topic among the adktaste.com community. This super informative, educational and engaging conversation with Deni…

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Chillin’ With Custard’s Last Stand in Long Lake 51:36

1y ago51:36

51:36

In this episode of ADK Talks, we have an intriguing conversation with Noel Jennings, a third-generation proprietor of one of the central Adirondack’s most beloved ice creameries, Custard’s Last Stand in Long Lake. This iconic ice cream stand has served visitors and the community since 1958 (over 65 years). We talk to Noel about what it takes to kee…

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Tracking Legends: Sasquatch in the Adirondacks 55:05

1y ago55:05

55:05

In this episode of ADK Talks, we are privileged to host a fascinating conversation with Paul Bartholomew, a distinguished Sasquatch expert renowned for his meticulous research and study of Bigfoot in New York and the New England states. He has been on a quest to unravel the mystery: Does a hulking 7-foot-tall humanlike creature, unrecognized by sci…

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Bridging the Gap: Making the Adirondacks Accessible for All Adventurers 41:44

1y ago41:44

41:44

In this episode of ADK Talks, we speak with Nick Friedman, Executive Director of Accessible Adirondack Tourism, who shares his insights and experience on making the Adirondacks more accessible to everyone. And we learn about the first annual Adirondack Nature Festival for People with Disabilities. Listen now, and subscribe to ADK Talks for more int…

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Behind the Curtain at Indian Lake Theater 36:22

1y ago36:22

36:22

In this episode of ADK Talks, we talk with Mary Alice O’Connor, the Executive Director of the Indian Lake Theater, who shares what it takes for a not-for-profit movie theater to survive and thrive in a town with a year-round population of 1,400 people. Mary Alice paints a vivid picture of the theater's history, which has been a part of the town’s l…

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Making Unforgettable Memories on Lake George at Silver Bay 37:41

1y ago37:41

37:41

In this episode of ADK Talks, we visit a unique destination on the Queen of American Lakes: Silver Bay YMCA. Lindsey Butler, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing, is our guest as we take a deep dive into this unique place to visit and stay along one mile of gorgeous Lake George shoreline. Lindsey provides all you need to know about why Silver …

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Pixels to Peaks: Digital Art and AI Breathe New Life Into Adirondack History 42:14

1y ago42:14

42:14

In this episode of ADK Talks, we delve into the unique world of Doug Smith, the digital creator of ADK Legends on Instagram. He weaves captivating stories about the history and people of the Adirondacks through his original digital art, a blend of creativity and cutting-edge technology that is sure to pique your interest. Doug shares what inspires …

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Episode 321 – SEGA vet ERIK WAHLBERG talks about making ETERNAL CHAMPIONS and other Genesis hits! – Vic’s Basement 50:41

1+ y ago50:41

50:41

Victor Lucas welcomes SEGA video game veteran, Erik Wahlberg to the Basement to discuss his long and winding career in games. From his earliest days testing SEGA Genesis games, to joining the production teams of games like Garfield Caught In The Act and Eternal Champions, to launching the SEGA Saturn, to pivoting to EA and the Knockout Kings franch…

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Making INSIDE OUT 2 with Vic’s Review and Interviews with Pixar’s John Hoffman and Rebecca McVeigh! – Vic’s Basement 26:26

1+ y ago26:26

26:26

Victor Lucas reviews Inside Out 2 and speaks with Pixar’s John Hoffman and Rebecca McVeigh about making the new Disney movie. Watch EPN: YouTube.com/EPNtv The Electric Playground on Facebook (for contests): Facebook.com/ElectricPlayground EPN Live: Twitch.tv/EPN EPN Shorts: tiktok.com/@theelectricplayground Official EPN Merch: EPN.tv/Merch Thanks f…

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Scooping the Best: The Sweet Tale of Adirondack Creamery's Ice Cream Journey 45:35

1+ y ago45:35

45:35

In our inaugural episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with Paul Nasrani, founder and CEO of Adirondack Creamery, a premium ice cream brand made in the Adirondacks known for its commitment to fresh, local, and high-quality ingredients. Paul shares his remarkable journey from being a corporate CFO in New York City to following his passion for ice cream …

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Introduction to ADK Talks 1:59

1+ y ago1:59

1:59

ADK Talks brings you the stories behind the people, places, and things to do in the Adirondack Park of New York State. With 6 million acres, the Adirondacks are the ultimate playground. We take you beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of one of America's most breathtaking regions. Just like we do on our website, adktaste.com, our podcast uncove…

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Episode 319 – BEST OF SUMMER GAME FEST with Brittney Brombacher, Jake Baldino and Kevin Kenson! 57:44

1+ y ago57:44

57:44

Victor Lucas is joined by Brittney Brombacher, Jake Baldino and Kevin Kenson to discuss the hits and misses of Summer Game Fest. Ubisoft Forward and the Xbox Showcase! Follow: @KevinKenson @JakeBaldino @WhatsGoodGames Watch EPN: YouTube.com/EPNtv The Electric Playground on Facebook (for contests): Facebook.com/ElectricPlayground EPN Live: Twitch.tv…