In this episode, we’re joined at Saratoga Race Course by Ralph Bianculli, the President & CEO of Emerald Ecovations. Ralph dives into the company’s mission—since 1997, Emerald has been championing tree-free, plastic-free, and toxin-free disposables made in the USA using rapidly renewable fibers like bamboo, bagasse, miscanthus, starches, and more. He also stresses the importance of educating consumers about how products are made, what chemicals they contain, and why choosing better alternatives can make a big environmental impact. Through initiatives like the Emerald Sustainability Academy, the company works to raise awareness and empower people to make greener choices every day. Kevin and Ralph reveal their exciting new partnership: Emerald Ecovations is now NYRA’s preferred sustainable products provider, beginning this season at Saratoga. Together, they’re reducing the environmental footprint of the race track by introducing eco-friendly cups, utensils, napkins, and more, while also engaging the public with educational activations across the grounds. https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ https://saratogaliving.com/ https://brightsighted.com/ https://emeraldecovations.com/ https://www.nyrainc.com/ Chapters: 00:00 The Future of Sustainability for Generations to Come 02:06 Emerald Ecovations: A Journey Towards Sustainable Practices 04:23 Recycling Realities: The Truth Behind Waste Management 06:51 Education as a Key to Sustainable Living 08:40 Innovative Products: Tree-Free Solutions and Their Impact 11:16 The Role of Corporations in Environmental Change 12:36 Engaging Farmers: A Sustainable Supply Chain 14:46 Partnerships for Progress: NYRA and Sustainable Practices 18:41 Consumer Awareness: The Importance of Informed Choices 20:30 Cost vs. Sustainability: Changing Perceptions 22:32 Environmental Impact Reporting: Metrics for Change 24:52 Contributing to Statewide Sustainability Efforts 27:51 The Shift in Consumer Demographics and Sustainability 29:39 Emerald's Product Showcase at the Track 30:53 Greenwashing: Identifying True Eco-Friendly Products 32:07 Legacy and Future: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover Saratoga Spa State Park, a top destination in Saratoga Springs known for its historic mineral springs, world-class outdoor recreation, and rich cultural attractions. We explore the soothing Roosevelt Baths, the shimmering elegance of the Victoria Pool, and the family-friendly fun of the Peerless Pool. Learn why preserving this historic and natural landmark is essential—and why it should be on every visitor’s Saratoga itinerary. Sponsored by Julie & Co. Realty Featured Members: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Spa State Park  https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa  Roosevelt Baths and Spa https://www.gideonputnam.com/roosevelt-baths-and-spa  Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) spac.org  Saratoga Spa Golf Course https://parks.ny.gov/golf/15/details.aspx  Saratoga Springs Automobile Museum  https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/  Saratoga Springs Children’s Museum  https://cmssny.org/  Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation  https://www.saratogapreservation.org/  Spa Little Theater by SPAC ​​https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/your-visit/the-spac-experience/our-venues/spa-little-theater/  Heritage Area Visitors Center  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Live Nation  https://www.livenation.com/  The Gideon Putnam Hotel  https://www.gideonputnam.com/  Chapters: 00:00 Exploring Saratoga Spa State Park 01:44 Unique Features of the Park 03:46 The Healing Power of Mineral Springs 05:52 Outdoor Recreation and Accessibility 07:08 Historical Significance of Roosevelt Baths 09:21 Cultural Events and Festivals 11:28 Understanding Mineral Springs 13:47 The Avenue of the Pines Experience 15:50 The Role of SPAC in the Park 17:55 The Hall of Springs: A Historical Venue 19:40 Attractions Beyond Recreation 21:50 Golf and Other Activities 24:04 The Victoria Pool Experience 25:06 The Geyser and Its Unique Features 27:28 The Importance of Preservation 29:29 Programming and Community Engagement 32:10 Seasonal Events and Activities 34:05 The Parks Explorer App 35:56 Art and History in the Park 37:26 Lightning Round: Quick Insights 41:04 Final Thoughts on Saratoga Spa State Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this delicious episode, host Mackenzie sits down with local culinary power duo Clark Gale and Zac Denham, the minds behind Bocage Champagne Bar, to talk about their newest venture: Standard Fare, opening August 15th in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs. From elevated comfort food (hello, meatloaf and apple chutney pork chops!) to a playful art gallery wall featuring horses, ducks—and a single goose—you’ll get the inside scoop on what makes Standard Fare a can’t-miss dinner destination for visitors and locals alike. Clark and Zac talk about their creative process, their passion for bringing people together through food, and what’s coming next (spoiler: brunch is on the way!). Whether you're in town for the Saratoga Race Course, spending the weekend on Broadway, or just here for the champagne and crepes, Standard Fare is your new go-to for unique dishes, warm vibes, and unexpected art. Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty : https://www.juliecorealty.com FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Standard Fare https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/  Bocage Champagne Bar https://www.bocagechampagnebar.com/  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast & Guests 01:05 From Bocage to Standard Fare 03:45 Collaborating with Local Artist Daniel 07:10 The Story Behind the Gallery Wall 10:30 Saratoga Horse Culture Meets Quirky Art 12:55 Finding the Goose: Interactive Art Details 15:40 Opening Timeline & Final Prep 17:55 Favorite Dishes on the Menu 21:00 Dessert, Salads & Blue Plate Specials 24:15 What’s Next: Lunch, Brunch & Crepes 26:50 Balancing Marriage & Business 29:30 Quick-Fire Fast Facts 32:00 Final Thoughts & How to Make Reservations Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Shania Twain lighting up the SPAC stage to Fire Fest’s farm-fresh bites, historic celebrations honoring the Battle of Saratoga, and unique carnival attractions like Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel — we cover the must-see happenings this summer. Get the scoop on the Saratoga County Fair’s demolition derby, the Kindness Carnival, Sip Savor & Swirl at Saratoga Winery with Nacre Dance Company, and the SPAC summer concert series. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or festival fanatic, this episode has all the local events and insider tips you need to make the most of your Saratoga summer. Tune in and start planning your next adventure! Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty : https://youtu.be/F_wcfZHxtVk FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/  Sashi’s Dispensary: https://www.sashiesdispensary.com/  Turning Point Parade and Festival: https://turningpointparade.com/   Saratoga Springs History Museum: https://www.saratogahistory.org/   Saratoga 250: https://saratoga250.com/  Saratoga Springs Visitors Center: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Saratoga Springs Battlefield: https://www.nps.gov/sara/index.htm  Kindness Carnival at Saratoga Winery: https://www.thesaratogawinery.com/events   Saratoga County Children's Committee: https://www.saratogachildrenscommittee.org/  Saratoga Summer Concert Series: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/events/summer-concert-series/  Fire Feast: https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/fire-feast  Pitney Meadows Farm: https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/  Echo Farm & Farmstead Catering: https://www.farmsteadcatering.com/echo-farm  SPAC: https://spac.org/  Ben and Jerry's: https://www.benjerry.com/saratoga    Live Nation Premium Experience: https://premium.livenation.com/experiences   Nacre Dance - Sip Savor Swirl: https://www.nacredance.org/sipsavorswirl   Universal Preservation Hall (UPH): https://atuph.org/  Saratoga County Fair: https://www.saratogacountyfair.org/  Demolition Derby: https://www.saratogacountyfair.org/fair-calendar/demolition-derby/  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Destination Saratoga Podcast 01:04 Upcoming Events in Saratoga County 05:08 Cultural Highlights and Community Engagement 08:40 Concerts and Performances at SPAC 11:09 Celebrity News and Philanthropy 12:02 Summer Food and Local Fairs 13:37 Reflections on Recent Losses in Entertainment 18:00 Sports and Local Teams Update Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about making Saratoga Springs your next home — or planning a summer getaway to see what all the buzz is about? ⬇️ In this episode of Destination Saratoga, Mackenzie sits down with Julie Bonacio and Sheila Sperling of Julie & Co. Realty inside the iconic Palazzo Mansion to talk about what makes this town so magnetic 🐎 From stunning homes and curated design to local culture & community values, this episode gives you an insider’s look at Saratoga’s unique lifestyle — whether you’re visiting for the season or thinking about staying for good. Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty: https://www.juliecorealty.com FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/⁠  Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/⁠  Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/⁠  Julie & Co Realty LLC: https://www.juliecorealty.com/ Roohan Realty: https://www.roohanrealty.com/ Saratoga Spa State Park: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa Cafe Lena: https://www.caffelena.org/ Saratoga Automobile Museum: https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/ Saratoga Children’s Museum: https://cmssny.org/ Saratoga History Museum: https://www.saratoga-springs.org/286/History-Museum Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring today's episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about making Saratoga Springs your next home — or planning a summer getaway to see what all the buzz is about? ⬇️ In this episode of Destination Saratoga, Mackenzie sits down with Julie Bonacio and Sheila Sperling of Julie & Co. Realty inside the iconic Palazzo Mansion to talk about what makes this town so magnetic 🐎 From stunning homes and curated design to local culture & community values, this episode gives you an insider’s look at Saratoga’s unique lifestyle — whether you’re visiting for the season or thinking about staying for good. Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty: https://www.juliecorealty.com FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/⁠  Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/⁠  Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/⁠  Julie & Co Realty LLC: https://www.juliecorealty.com/ Roohan Realty: https://www.roohanrealty.com/ Saratoga Spa State Park: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa Cafe Lena: https://www.caffelena.org/ Saratoga Automobile Museum: https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/ Saratoga Children’s Museum: https://cmssny.org/ Saratoga History Museum: https://www.saratoga-springs.org/286/History-Museum Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Scene 08:44 - Exploring Real Estate in Saratoga 16:44 - Personal Connections and Community Ties 21:36 - The Journey of Julie in Real Estate 30:30 - Current Market Trends and Insights 33:56 - Legacy Properties and Their Impact Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring today's episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saratoga’s racing season kicks off with the thrilling and long-awaited Opening Day. From exciting new gluten-free and vegan bites at the track to kid-friendly activities and behind-the-scenes tours, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. They talk about jockeys to watch this season, like Katie and Dylan Davis, and how Mackenzie bumped into Dave Portnoy (yes, Stool President himself)—sparking a full-on campaign to get him on the podcast… Natalie’s new article also gets a major spotlight, covering all the can’t-miss events of the season. From ghost tours and museum visits to the excitement of horse ownership, Saratoga is packed with experiences this year. Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty  https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/seasons-greetings-9c2 FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Saratoga Race Course  https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/  NYRA https://www.nyrainc.com/ Purdy’s  https://www.purdyswine.com/ Side Cap https://www.sidecapbrew.com/about  Kru Coffee  https://www.krucoffee.com/  Ninth Planet https://www.ninthplanetbev.com/  By the Bottle https://bythebottleshop.com/  The Coat Room  https://thecoatroom.com/  Therapeutic Horses https://thsaratoga.org/  National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame  https://www.racingmuseum.org/  The Morning Show (during breakfast) Laura Breakfast at Saratoga  https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/breakfast-at-saratoga   Breakfast and Breeding Tour  https://oldtavernfarms.com/pages/breeding-breakfast-farm-tours Song Hill Thoroughbred Tavern Farm  https://www.jamesbondracing.com/  Sugar Plum Farm  https://www.sugarplumfarmsaratoga.com/  Winner’s Circle Experience https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/experiences  BEST (Backstretch Employee Service Team) https://www.bestbackstretch.org/ Third Race Call  Experience  https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/  NYRA STAR Program (Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing) https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/nyra-star/  Kos Sauna  https://www.kossauna.com/  Lago by Druthers  https://www.druthersbrewing.com/   Standard Fair https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/  Libby’s https://libbysupperclub.com/  History Museum Ghost Tours https://www.saratogahistory.org/ghost-tours-summer-2025  Heritage Area Visitors Center https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Sara’s Kitchen  https://www.saraskitchen518.com/  Putnam Market https://putnammarket.com/  Cardona's https://www.cardonasmarket.com/  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Rental Fashion: Affordable Style Choices 00:44 Celebrity Encounters: Awkward Moments and Gossip 02:26 Saratoga Racing: Excitement and New Experiences 06:45 Culinary Delights: Food and Beverage Innovations at the Track 10:34 Local Business Spotlight: New Ventures and Collaborations 12:39 Horse Racing Culture: Community and Events 16:55 Unique Experiences: Naming Races and Special Tours 20:38 Celebrating Local Talent: Jockeys and Their Impact 24:26 Philanthropy and Community: Celebrity Contributions 26:57 Upcoming Attractions: New Restaurants and Events 30:52 Personal Connections: Becoming a Horse Owner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We visit the historic Saratoga Springs History Museum, housed in the legendary Canfield Casino, and sit down with Program Director Charlie Kuenzel for a fascinating conversation. From the glitz and glam of Saratoga’s Gilded Age—where elite vacationers came to gamble, socialize, and indulge in high-stakes horse racing—to the darker, haunted corners of the building featured on Ghost Hunters, this episode uncovers both the luxurious and mysterious layers of Saratoga’s past. Hear stories of million-dollar bets, lavish lifestyles, and the spirits that still linger in the halls of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Sponsor By Julie & Co Realty  https://www.saratogahistory.org/events/0u3a3xly64c5uvao59rjxd6tolgy8a FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  The Saratoga Springs History Museum  https://www.saratogahistory.org/  The Canfield Casino  https://www.saratoga-springs.org/363/Canfield-Casino  SPAC https://spac.org/  The Adelphi  https://theadelphihotel.com/  Heritage Area Visitors Center  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Saratoga Race Course  https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Exploring Saratoga's Rich History 03:52 The Gilded Age: A Tale of Two Cities 11:06 The Role of Iconic Hotels in Saratoga's Legacy 15:51 Women's Suffrage and Saratoga's Influence 19:35 The Museum's Role in Preserving Saratoga's Identity 24:06 Ghost Stories and Haunted History 39:56 Reflections on Historical Figures and Events Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into everything buzzing around Saratoga—from the glitz of a local film set (Jessie has stories!) to the growing excitement around the Fourth of July Racing Festival and the jam-packed calendar of summer events. We’re talking big names and big moves—like the NYC Ballet’s return to SPAC, Shania Twain’s generous surprise for a local food bank, and the pop culture chatter lighting up town (Jonas Brothers, anyone?). Plus, we get into the great Benson Boone debate, Anna Wintour's iconic exit, and… the ultimate showdown: best ice cream in Saratoga. (Dairy Haus, Humpty Dumpty’s, or Farmer’s Daughter—who wins?) With the Saratoga County Fair just around the corner, we're also reliving our favorite rides and deep-fried indulgences. Tune in for the laughs, the scoop, and a little birthday wish-casting—will the Jonas Brothers show up for Jessie’s big day? Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty LLC Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ The Children’s Museum at Saratoga https://cmssny.org/ Heritage Area Visitor’s Center https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ Saratoga Springs History Museum https://www.saratogahistory.org/ Dairy Haus https://dairyhaus.com/ Farmers Daughter https://www.farmersdaughtersdrivein.com/ Humpty Dumpty https://humptydumptyicecream.weebly.com/ Saratoga Gelato https://www.saratogagelato.com/ The Factory https://www.thefactoryeatery.com/menu Ribbon Cafe https://www.ribboncafeny.com/ Neighborhood Kitchen https://www.nkmilton.com/ The Whistling Kettle https://www.thewhistlingkettle.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking 02:59 Celebrating Saratoga: Events and Festivals 05:39 Cultural Highlights: Ballet and Concerts 08:17 Pop Culture and Music Trends 11:10 Summer Fun: Fairs and Local Attractions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natalie Moore gives us the inside scoop on 27 local businesses—from beloved mainstays saying goodbye to exciting new ventures popping up across town, we cover the evolving landscape of Saratoga's downtown and beyond. We also dive into the star-studded scene at the Belmont Stakes, preview Saratoga’s festive 4th of July celebrations, and spotlight the endless reasons to visit this summer. Sponsored By Phinney Design Group https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/27-saratoga-businesses-that-are-opening https://saratogaliving.com/mvp-rj-burtt-is-saratogas-late-shift-hero/ Chapters: 00:00 Celebrating the Fourth of July in Saratoga 00:53 Behind the Scenes at Belmont 04:07 New Businesses and Openings in Saratoga 06:31 Restaurant Closures and Changes 10:17 Exciting New Dining Options 16:49 Saratoga's Culinary Scene and Awards 20:48 Community Developments and Upgrades 24:45 Upcoming Events and Festivals Featured Members: Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices