🎙️ Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Cultivating Connection: Agritourism Along New York’s Adirondack Coast 
Guest: Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing, North Country Chamber of Commerce 
Host: Jim Bamboulis @travelmammal 
 

Episode Overview: 
In this episode, we journey to the Adirondack Coast of New York—where fertile farmlands meet the shores of Lake Champlain—to explore how agritourism is revitalizing rural communities and celebrating local heritage. Our Guest, Kristy Kennedy, VP of Marketing for the North Country Chamber of Commerce, discusses how the region’s farms are blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability to create meaningful visitor experiences.
What You’ll Discover:
<ul>
<li>
How agritourism has evolved from farm stands and hayrides into a thriving movement that strengthens the regional economy.
</li>
<li>
Inspiring stories of multi-generational farms adapting to change while preserving their roots.
</li>
<li>
The ripple effect of agritourism—how local restaurants, artisans, and cultural venues benefit from the growth of farm-based travel.
</li>
<li>
The deep connection between sustainability, stewardship, and community pride across the Adirondack Coast.
</li>
<li>
How cultural storytelling and local food experiences connect visitors with the region’s identity and history.
</li>
<li>
Kristy’s vision for the future of agritourism and how the Adirondack Coast continues to balance growth with authenticity.
</li>
</ul>
Personal Touches: 
Listeners also get a glimpse of Kristy’s personal favorites—from her go-to fall traditions on the Coast to the local flavors she believes best capture the region’s spirit.
Why Listen: 
This episode is a heartfelt celebration of community, collaboration, and creativity in rural tourism. It’s an inspiring listen for anyone who believes in the power of local experiences to sustain both land and livelihood. 
 

Follow the journey: 
🌾 @adirondackcoast | 🌎 @travelmammal

<description>🎙️ Podcast Episode Summary
&lt;p&gt;Title: Cultivating Connection: Agritourism Along New York’s Adirondack Coast
Guest: Kristy Kennedy, Vice President of Marketing, North Country Chamber of Commerce
Host: Jim Bamboulis @travelmammal

&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Episode Overview:
In this episode, we journey to the Adirondack Coast of New York—where fertile farmlands meet the shores of Lake Champlain—to explore how agritourism is revitalizing rural communities and celebrating local heritage. Our Guest, Kristy Kennedy, VP of Marketing for the North Country Chamber of Commerce, discusses how the region’s farms are blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability to create meaningful visitor experiences.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;What You’ll Discover:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;How agritourism has evolved from farm stands and hayrides into a thriving movement that strengthens the regional economy.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Inspiring stories of multi-generational farms adapting to change while preserving their roots.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The ripple effect of agritourism—how local restaurants, artisans, and cultural venues benefit from the growth of farm-based travel.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The deep connection between sustainability, stewardship, and community pride across the Adirondack Coast.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;How cultural storytelling and local food experiences connect visitors with the region’s identity and history.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Kristy’s vision for the future of agritourism and how the Adirondack Coast continues to balance growth with authenticity.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Personal Touches:
Listeners also get a glimpse of Kristy’s personal favorites—from her go-to fall traditions on the Coast to the local flavors she believes best capture the region’s spirit.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Why Listen:
This episode is a heartfelt celebration of community, collaboration, and creativity in rural tourism. It’s an inspiring listen for anyone who believes in the power of local experiences to sustain both land and livelihood.

&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Follow the journey:
🌾 @adirondackcoast | 🌎 @travelmammal&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
</description>

In this episode, we journey to the Adirondack Coast of New York—where fertile farmlands meet the shores of Lake Champlain—to explore how agritourism is revitalizing rural communities and celebrating local heritage. Our Guest, Kristy Kennedy, VP of Marketing for the North Country Chamber of Commerce, discusses how the region’s farms are blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability to create meaningful visitor experiences.

Cultivating Connection: Agritourism Along New York’s Adirondack Coast

🍁✨ New season, new vibes, and a new episode of Fact Up! This week, we’re taking you to one of Canada’s most underrated fall destinations — Thunder Bay, Ontario — with none other than Paul Pepe from Thunder Bay Tourism.
Think you know fall? Think again. 🍂 Thunder Bay turns autumn into an experience. From the jaw-dropping views of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park to cozying up at the Thunder Bay Country Market, from epic Indigenous cultural connections to food festivals that turn your sweater weather into sweater-stretched weather… this city has everything your fall-loving heart could ever want. 🙌
Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: 
🌽 Why fall in Thunder Bay is a literal feast — markets, harvest events, and festivals that celebrate local food and culture. 
🔥 Indigenous experiences that connect you to the land, traditions, and stories that make the region unique. 
🥾 Hiking trails and scenic lookouts that will make your Instagram pop harder than a pumpkin spice latte. 
🎶 Local events and cultural happenings that prove Thunder Bay isn’t just a pit stop — it’s a destination.
So if you’re wondering where to get your fall fix without the cliché, Thunder Bay is calling. 🎃
👉 Question for YOU: Have you ever visited Thunder Bay in the fall? What’s the first thing you’d do — hit the markets, hike the trails, or dive straight into the butter tarts? Drop your answer in the comments — we LOVE hearing your travel goals.
Hit that LIKE button if you’re ready to pack your bags, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes that make you say, “Why didn’t I travel there sooner?” 🚀
#ThunderBay #CanadaTravel #FallVibes #FactUpPodcast #TravelPodcast

<description>&lt;p&gt;🍁✨ New season, new vibes, and a new episode of Fact Up! This week, we’re taking you to one of Canada’s most underrated fall destinations — Thunder Bay, Ontario — with none other than Paul Pepe from Thunder Bay Tourism.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Think you know fall? Think again. 🍂 Thunder Bay turns autumn into an experience. From the jaw-dropping views of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park to cozying up at the Thunder Bay Country Market, from epic Indigenous cultural connections to food festivals that turn your sweater weather into sweater-stretched weather… this city has everything your fall-loving heart could ever want. 🙌&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:
🌽 Why fall in Thunder Bay is a literal feast — markets, harvest events, and festivals that celebrate local food and culture.
🔥 Indigenous experiences that connect you to the land, traditions, and stories that make the region unique.
🥾 Hiking trails and scenic lookouts that will make your Instagram pop harder than a pumpkin spice latte.
🎶 Local events and cultural happenings that prove Thunder Bay isn’t just a pit stop — it’s a destination.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;So if you’re wondering where to get your fall fix without the cliché, Thunder Bay is calling. 🎃&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 Question for YOU: Have you ever visited Thunder Bay in the fall? What’s the first thing you’d do — hit the markets, hike the trails, or dive straight into the butter tarts? Drop your answer in the comments — we LOVE hearing your travel goals.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Hit that LIKE button if you’re ready to pack your bags, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more episodes that make you say, “Why didn’t I travel there sooner?” 🚀&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;#ThunderBay #CanadaTravel #FallVibes #FactUpPodcast #TravelPodcast&lt;/p&gt;
</description>

🍁 This week on the Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis, we head north to Thunder Bay, Ontario, with Paul Pepe from Thunder Bay Tourism to uncover why fall is the season you need to visit. From bustling markets and cozy food festivals to Indigenous cultural experiences and epic hiking trails, Thunder Bay turns autumn into an unforgettable adventure. Tune in and discover why this city should be at the top of your fall travel list.

Thunder Bay in the Fall: Markets, Festivals & Hidden Gems

In this episode of “Thunder Bay — On Land, On Water, and On Your Plate,” we sat down with Paul Pepe from Tourism Thunder Bay to explore everything that makes this Northern Ontario gem a must-visit summer destination. From scenic hikes and paddling adventures on Lake Superior to vibrant cultural festivals and a dynamic food scene blending tradition with trend, Paul gave us the inside scoop on how to make the most of your time in Thunder Bay. We also dug into some classic local eats, new restaurant buzz, and even his dream “eat your way through the city” food day. Whether a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, this episode is your bite-sized guide to the ultimate Thunder Bay summer.
 
🧭 Topics Covered:
<ul>
<li>
What summer in Thunder Bay really feels like
</li>
<li>
Top outdoor activities: hiking, biking, paddling, and exploring
</li>
<li>
Best water-based adventures on Lake Superior and surrounding areas
</li>
<li>
Signature summer festivals and hidden gem events
</li>
<li>
Celebrating Finnish and Indigenous culture in Thunder Bay
</li>
<li>
Iconic restaurants and Thunder Bay food classics
</li>
<li>
New restaurants and emerging culinary trends
</li>
<li>
Paul’s dream “eat your way through the city” itinerary
</li>
<li>
What makes the people and spirit of Thunder Bay so unique
</li>
<li>
Tips for first-time summer visitors
</li>
</ul>
 
🔗 Connect with Thunder Bay Tourism:
<ul>
<li>
Website: <a href='https://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/index.aspx'>Visit Thunder Bay</a>
</li>
<li>
Instagram: <a href='https://www.instagram.com/visitthunderbay/'>@visitthunderbay</a>
</li>
<li>
Facebook: <a href='https://www.facebook.com/visitthunderbay'>Visit Thunder Bay</a>
</li>
</ul>
🌍 Follow Travel Mammal:
<ul>
<li>
Website: <a href='https://www.travelmammal.com'>www.travelmammal.com</a>
</li>
<li>
Instagram: <a href='https://www.instagram.com/travelmammal/'>@travelmammal</a>
</li>
<li>
YouTube: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/@travelmammal'>Travel Mammal</a>
</li>
<li>
Facebook: <a href='https://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'>Travel Mammal</a>
</li>
</ul>
 
📩 Share this episode with someone looking for a unique Canadian summer getaway—and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an adventure.
See you on the trail (or at the next food truck). Cheers!
 
Jim Bamboulis 
Host, Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of “Thunder Bay — On Land, On Water, and On Your Plate,” we sat down with Paul Pepe from Tourism Thunder Bay to explore everything that makes this Northern Ontario gem a must-visit summer destination. From scenic hikes and paddling adventures on Lake Superior to vibrant cultural festivals and a dynamic food scene blending tradition with trend, Paul gave us the inside scoop on how to make the most of your time in Thunder Bay. We also dug into some classic local eats, new restaurant buzz, and even his dream “eat your way through the city” food day. Whether a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, this episode is your bite-sized guide to the ultimate Thunder Bay summer.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
🧭 Topics Covered:
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;What summer in Thunder Bay really feels like&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Top outdoor activities: hiking, biking, paddling, and exploring&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Best water-based adventures on Lake Superior and surrounding areas&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Signature summer festivals and hidden gem events&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Celebrating Finnish and Indigenous culture in Thunder Bay&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Iconic restaurants and Thunder Bay food classics&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;New restaurants and emerging culinary trends&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Paul’s dream “eat your way through the city” itinerary&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;What makes the people and spirit of Thunder Bay so unique&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Tips for first-time summer visitors&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;🔗 Connect with Thunder Bay Tourism:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Website: &lt;a href='https://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/index.aspx'&gt;Visit Thunder Bay&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Instagram: &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/visitthunderbay/'&gt;@visitthunderbay&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Facebook: &lt;a href='https://www.facebook.com/visitthunderbay'&gt;Visit Thunder Bay&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;🌍 Follow Travel Mammal:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Website: &lt;a href='https://www.travelmammal.com'&gt;www.travelmammal.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Instagram: &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/travelmammal/'&gt;@travelmammal&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;YouTube: &lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/@travelmammal'&gt;Travel Mammal&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Facebook: &lt;a href='https://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'&gt;Travel Mammal&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;📩 Share this episode with someone looking for a unique Canadian summer getaway—and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an adventure.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;See you on the trail (or at the next food truck). Cheers!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;
Jim Bamboulis
Host, Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
</description>

From epic hiking trails and paddling adventures on Lake Superior to can’t-miss summer festivals and a thriving culinary scene, Paul Pepe gives us an insider guide to experiencing Thunder Bay to the fullest.

Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis #55 - What Makes Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada an Ideal Summer Getaway Destination

It's a pleasure to present Episode #54 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Paul Pepe, Manager of <a href='http://visitthunderbay.com'>Thunder Bay Tourism</a> in northwest Ontario, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:
<ul><li>What makes Thunder Bay an ideal 4-season destination.</li>
<li>Why Thunder Bay should be on your Travel Radar.</li>
<li>Thunder Bay's endless outdoor adventures, culinary offerings, and cultural richness.</li>
<li>Finnish Pancakes @ the Sauna?? </li>
</ul>
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
<a href='http://www.travelmammal.wordpress.com/'>TravelMammal</a> is a media company that aims to unite the global community through travel, food and cultural experiences worldwide.
Connect with me on Social:
<ul><li><a href='http://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'>Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.youtube.com/travelmammal'>YouTube</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.instagram.com/travelmammal'>Instagram</a></li>
</ul>
Connect with Thunder Bay Tourism on Social:
<ul><li><a href='http://www.visitthunderbay.com'>Website</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.facebook.com/visitthunderbay'>Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.instagram.com/visitthunderbay'>Instagram</a></li>
</ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;It's a pleasure to present Episode #54 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Paul Pepe, Manager of &lt;a href='http://visitthunderbay.com'&gt;Thunder Bay Tourism&lt;/a&gt; in northwest Ontario, Canada. In this episode, we talk about:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;What makes Thunder Bay an ideal 4-season destination.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Why Thunder Bay should be on your Travel Radar.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Thunder Bay's endless outdoor adventures, culinary offerings, and cultural richness.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Finnish Pancakes @ the Sauna?? &lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.travelmammal.wordpress.com/'&gt;TravelMammal&lt;/a&gt; is a media company that aims to unite the global community through travel, food and cultural experiences worldwide.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Connect with me on Social:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'&gt;Facebook&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.youtube.com/travelmammal'&gt;YouTube&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.instagram.com/travelmammal'&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Connect with Thunder Bay Tourism on Social:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.visitthunderbay.com'&gt;Website&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.facebook.com/visitthunderbay'&gt;Facebook&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.instagram.com/visitthunderbay'&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
</description>

Thunder Bay, Ontario, is a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, known for its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Home to the iconic Sleeping Giant, it’s a top destination for nature lovers. Fun fact: Thunder Bay has more sunshine hours annually than Miami, Florida! Paul Pepe, the manager of Thunder Bay’s tourism board, is dedicated to promoting the city’s unique offerings. He shares his insights as the guest of Episode 54 of the Fact Up podcast with Jim Bamboulis, where they discuss Thunder Bay’s hidden gems.

Fact Up Podcast | Episode #54 | Paul Pepe, Manager @ Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada Tourism

I'm delighted to present Episode #53 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Isabel Hilgendag, Scientist, Explorer &amp; CEO @ <a href='https://pursuitofexploration.com/'>Pursuit of Exploration</a>. In this episode, we talk about:
<ul><li>Completing the Pacific Crest Trail, solo.</li>
<li>Rewards &amp; challenges traveling the world, solo.</li>
<li>Passion for the land, and a nomadic-inspired lifestyle. </li>
<li>Traveling while looking at the world with scientific eyes, as much as adventurous ones. </li>
</ul>
The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!
<a href='http://www.travelmammal.wordpress.com/'>TravelMammal</a> is a media company that aims to unite the global community through travel, food and cultural experiences worldwide.
Connect with me on Social:
<ul><li><a href='http://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'>Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.youtube.com/travelmammal'>YouTube</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.instagram.com/travelmammal'>Instagram</a></li>
</ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;I'm delighted to present Episode #53 of the Fact Up Podcast featuring Isabel Hilgendag, Scientist, Explorer &amp;amp; CEO @ &lt;a href='https://pursuitofexploration.com/'&gt;Pursuit of Exploration&lt;/a&gt;. In this episode, we talk about:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Completing the Pacific Crest Trail, solo.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Rewards &amp;amp; challenges traveling the world, solo.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Passion for the land, and a nomadic-inspired lifestyle. &lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Traveling while looking at the world with scientific eyes, as much as adventurous ones. &lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis features informative, casual conversations about topics of the day with industry leaders and thinkers in the travel, food and culture industries!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.travelmammal.wordpress.com/'&gt;TravelMammal&lt;/a&gt; is a media company that aims to unite the global community through travel, food and cultural experiences worldwide.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Connect with me on Social:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.facebook.com/travelmammal'&gt;Facebook&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.youtube.com/travelmammal'&gt;YouTube&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='http://www.instagram.com/travelmammal'&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
</description>

Isabel Hilgendag – a young explorer whose thirst for knowledge matches her passion for adventure. From conquering the Pacific Crest Trail to immersing herself in solo travels across the globe, Isabel’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. But what sets her apart is her insatiable curiosity, fueled by an extensive academic life.

Fact Up Podcast | Episode #53 | Isabel Hilgendag, Scientist, Explorer & CEO @ Pursuit of Exploration

The Fact Up Podcast features conversations with industry leaders in the travel and food industries who inspire, unite and motivate the global community.

Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis

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