Backyard Road Trips: Recent Episodes
Zack Lamothe and Jim Wheeler
Once an avid traveler, writer Zack Lamothe's faraway travel dreams were put on hold as he became a father in 2015. Since then, he's focused on traveling in his own backyard. First a website, and now a podcast where cohosts and New Englanders, Zack and Jim Wheeler talk hiking trails, family-friendly activities, places they enjoy, craft beer and whatever else they desire to. (Along with plenty of harebrained banter).
Read more at www.backyardroadtrips.com
Please welcome Fran Kefalas and Regan Miner to the show! Fran is the executive director of The Last Green Valley, and Regan is the Development Director. TLGV is a national heritage corridor located in northeastern Connecticut and south-central Massachusetts. The duo speaks to us about the latest goings-on, including the opening of their new headquarters. Fran and Regan explain what The Last Green Valley has to offer and what events to look forward to in the upcoming year.
For National Stroke Awareness Month, we shine a spotlight on Lana Wilhelm—a nurse, author, caregiver, and advocate. After her husband suffered a sudden, major stroke, Lana's life shifted from medical professional to full-time caregiver, a role she found arduous and lonely.
Lana, founder of the Stroke Caregiver Connection, runs support groups and has met with over 2,000 caregivers, offering understanding for the tumultuous path of providing constant care. She’ll speak about navigating burnout, the emotional journey from anger and grief, and the key mindset shift that allows caregivers and survivors to focus on what they can still do.
In this inspiring conversation, Lana shares how she and her husband have adapted their lives as travelers, providing actionable tips for planning trips after a major medical event, and proving that enjoyable adventures are still possible. Tune in for an honest look at life after a stroke and how fellowship, humor, and a change in perspective can transform the quality of life for both survivors and caregivers
Jim and Zack chat with photographer Cade Martin. From photographing Mother Theresa and Johnny Cash to assignments all over the world, Cade's story is an interesting one for sure. Cade delves into one project that has been especially important to him. The Wheelchair Mafia, a group of 44 dogs that are fitted with wheelchairs and are part of the larger The Man Who Rescues Dogs, a sanctuary for stray and disabled dogs in Thailand. Cade worked with his whole family to make this film about the Wheelchair Mafia.
Jim and Zack sit down with Jim's sister, Kiki, about her career as a corrections officer. From the day to day to the extreme, we take a peek into life behind bars. Also joining the conversation is Kiki's daughter, Kitta.
Avid travelers, Zack and Jim, didn't go very far for this Backyard Road Trip. They only traveled to the fridge. What they imbibed, though, was something magical, the 2025 Samuel Adams Utopias. Listen as the two crack open this mythical beer.
For our first episode of the New Year, we are airing our Festivus grievances, just a little late. Jim and Zack welcome back Jim's sister, Kiki, and niece, Kitta, to the show. All while noshing on Jim's homemade spicy chocolates, the crew narrows down their biggest pet peeves, bracket style. Slow left lane drivers? Texters with bad etiquette? Shoppers who block the grocery aisle? Find out which pet peeve is the worst of them all.
Jim's sister Kiki has a problem. She's a long time Michelob Ultra drinker but after years of listening to the Backyard Road Trips podcast, she's ready to dip her toe into the world of craft beer. Jim and Zack have been tasked with finding the perfect gateway beer. Jim has devised a plan- a blind taste test of lighter beers. These are a mix between macro and micro brews, with Mich Ultra being one of them. Jim, Zack and Kiki are joined by Kiki's daughter (and Jim's niece) Kitta. Will she be able to identify the Ultra? Listen up to find out! Prost!
Zack and Jim are excited to welcome Melissa Rodway to the show. Melissa is an adventurer, writer, podcaster and owner of FLY Travel Media. Melissa shares with us some of her favorite (and least favorite) travels around the world, how she fits travel into her schedule, and her favorite backyard road trips. For more information about Melissa, check out www.flyrodway.com, as well as her memoir, The People You Meet.
After a year of growing a variety of hot peppers, it's harvest time! Jim shares his peppers with Zack and guests including his wife, Katie Wheeler and good friend Tim Lawless. The four share nibbles of hot peppers that become increasingly hotter on the Scoville scale, all while broaching hot topics, including dogs in stores and reclinging airplane seats. Listen up!
Zack and Jim are back with guest, Tim Lawless. Initially the conversation begins with their favorite fall beers, with references to past pumpkin beer taste tests (see earlier seasons). Eventually, it descends into the world of non-alcoholic beer. Why would it be appealing? Do any of the NA beers make the cut? Listen to find out!
Jim, Zack, and special guest, Tim Lawless join us for a session of Brews and Boos. Jim, homebrewer extraordinaire, let's sample four of his newest beers: a spicy pumpkin ale, a holiday ale, a black IPA, and a smoked stout. In addition, the trio shares with us their favorite scary stories, especially ones that have happened close to home.
Jim and Zack welcome photographer, Angela Andrieux, to the show! Angela shares with us her passion for photography, how she initially got into taking pictures and her favorite backyard road trips. She also tells us all about Mylio, the photo archival company where she works.
Jim, Zack and special guest Ian Cheney welcome you to a very special episode. In this episode, they preview their new podcast, which launches in September, called "Red & White @ Silver". The trio are graduates of the Norwich (CT) Free Academy, Class of 2001. After Ian was a guest on Backyard Road Trips, he conceived of the idea for this podcast. Ian, Zack and Jim would spend the next two years interviewing more than 40 fellow graduates from NFA's Class of 2001 to find out where life has taken them. Episodes will be airing once a week through June in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of their senior year in high school. Many thanks to the NFA Foundation, which has been unwavering in its support of this project!
Jim and Zack welcome Ian Cheney back onto Backyard Road Trips. Ian has been on here to tell us about his book, as a guest for a historical discussion, and to share information about our other podcast project, Red and White at Silver. This time, though, he's sharing his own travel tidbits and more. Jim also talks travel as he clues us in on his recent trips, including a multi-day hike of the Nipmuck Trail in Connecticut, travels to the White Mountains and Universal Studios. Ian shares his recent overnight voyage in his own town, his upcoming Disney World vacation and his ideal trip. Zack shares about quick trips to New Hampshire, Acadia National Park and Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
Jim and Zack welcome Laura Giles onto the show. Laura is a guide who leads groups in a variety of tours; spiritual retreats, sacred travel and nature-based excursions, among others. She chats with the duo all about what she does and her inspiration. For more information, check out Laura's website at www.lauragiles.me
Jim and Zack welcome travel writer, actress, and photographer Joanna Kalafatis to the show! In addition to acting in shows, Maestro in Blue and Love Rat, Joanna runs the website, www.losethemap.com. Not only does she write on her own blog, but she has also authored the Moon Travel Guide: Best of Greece as well a two guides to abandoned northern and southern California. Joanna grew up in Greece and New York City, later living in Los Angeles. She talks about how to balance her multiple careers, cultural misunderstandings, how to recharge while traveling, and her favorite backyard road trips!
Jim and Zack welcome Alexandra Lauren, also known as the Bucket List Mermaid to Backyard Road Trips! Alexandra lives in an RV and is constantly traveling. A native-Coloradoan, she has traveled to over 45 countries! She shares with us her adventures as a mermaid, yes a literal mermaid. She also talks about what's been on her bucket list, hiking with a mermaid tail and travel mishaps, including escaping a forest fire and her brush with a skinwalker!
Jim and Zack welcome the curator of the Mattapoisett Museum, Connor Gaudet, onto the show. Connor walks us through the museum's fine collection, including a model of the ship, the Wanderer. He shares with us this backstory of his career in museum work, from Manhattan to Mattapoisett as well as his personal favorite backyard road trips. Located on the South Coast of Massachusetts, the Mattapoisett Museum showcases a fine collection of artifacts from the history of the town.
Jim and Zack have two special guests on air today: Dave Lehan and Dan Carlon. Each year, Dave and Dan join Zack and two others for a guys weekend in Portland, Maine. They discuss their favorite Portland activities- which mainly consist of breweries. They detail the route they take, from Maine Beer Company, to the hotel to a night on the town. The group analyzes the perks of each stop and what they look forward to on their next journey.
Now that spring is here once again, it's time to talk about rebirth, renewal, and re-energizing our travel plans. A few special guests join Jim and Zack- Jackie, Zack's wife and Danny, Zack's oldest son, as well as our buddy, Dave Lehan. Danny shares about his recent trip to Philadelphia including his visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and to a 76ers basketball game. Dave relates his recent travels to Upstate New York. And the whole bunch shares their most awkward situations.
Zack and Jim welcome a very special guest, Jaclyn Lamothe, who is also Zack's wife. We're getting back to our roots here on Backyard Road Trips as we grill Jackie about her all-time favorite travel destinations. The places discussed include Quebec City, the Jungfrau mountain peak, Innsbruck and the Pacific Northwest. She shares how to navigate the Brenner Pass, how to deal with the sulfuric hot water smell in an Icelandic shower and the wonders of Tyrolean schnapps. Take a listen for the rest of her travel picks.
Do remember back to the first season of the BYRT podcast? Way back in 2020 when Jim and Zack discussed their quirky holiday traditions? Of course you remember since you're a BYRT podcast completist. Just to jog your memory, the duo rapped about all the quirky weird stuff that they do to celebrate the holidays from Thanksgiving through New Year's. Five years later, they see how life changes traditions, or if it does, as they give an update on what they do for the holidays. Additionally, since it's mid-Winter, they chat about how to beat those winter blues.
Zack, Jim and Drew chat with a very special guest, Valentinos Filippou. Valentinos is from the island country of Cypress and shares with us how to get to the heart of the country. He works to promote Cypress tourism. More than that Valentinos is also the founder of The Online Greek Tutor, an online approach to learning the Greek language. Additionally, he speaks to us about his family beekeeping business, Oros Maxaira. Drew, from Drew's Honeybees, and Valentinos talk all things bees.
If you'd like to check out Valentinos' businesses, here are discount codes for Backyard Road Trips listeners: Oros Maxaira- beesbackyarddiscount10% or The Online Greek Tutor: backyarddiscount10%
You actually made it onto the airplane—and then one of the kids threw up! This show is all about travel mishaps—those times when something goes awry. It's not serious stuff, just mishaps, like when Zack's son fell down a few stairs in the Seattle airport, not the whole way. Jim and Zack are joined by Tim Lawless and Jim's wife, Katie Wheeler. Tim shares why he and Jim are officially banned from Canada and his plight to find his Mickey Mouse wallet at a seedy motel in Baltimore, and that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Special guest, Tim Lawless and BYRT co-host, Jim share all about their recent trip hiking Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest point. They detail their journey, from the drive to camping to packing. Zack interviews these two about their life-changing hike. For a photo journey of the Katahdin trip, check out this article on Backyard Road Trips.
Jim and Zack reflect on a season of hiking, detailing their western Connecticut journey from this past summer. They also reflect on a season of drinking craft beer, including some of the least impressive beers that they've had. Jim previews his life-changing hike to the top of Maine's Mt. Katahdin, which will be further explained in a future episode.
Time to get out your brown paper bags because we're having a malt liquor taste test. With three varieties to sample, Jim and Zack take a sip of three 40's. Find the winner between Colt 45, Steel Reserve and St. Ide's. Any guesses?
Jim and Zack discuss their quintessential autumn playlists. From songs about the season to songs that just scream "fall", these selections conjure up memories of crunching leaves with a slight chill in the air. These tracks will take you from the warmth of September to the spookiness of Halloween through the dreary but bountiful late November.
Check out Zack's Autumn Spotify Playlist
Check out Jim's Fall Spotify Playlist
Among the songs talked about include: September: Better Than Ezra- This Time of Year Neil Young - Harvest Moon Josh Ritter - Homecoming October: Jens Lekman - Maple Leaves John Mayer - Edge of Desire Joseph Arthur - Black Lexus Damien Rice - Cannonball November: Elliott Smith- Between the Bars M Ward- Transfiguration of Vincent album For the whole season: George Winston- Autumn album Landon Pig- Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop
Zack and Jim are glad to welcome acclaimed keynote speaker and author, Chris Dyer, onto the podcast. He delves into the dynamics of remote work and the importance of cultivating a strong company culture. Chris shares his company's transition to a fully remote model in 2009 due to the recession, emphasizing the need for a balanced satisfaction among clients, employees, and stakeholders. He identifies unique challenges leaders face in managing remote teams, advocating for different types of meetings tailored to specific purposes and highlighting the crucial role of transparency in organizational success. Chris introduces his Seven Pillar strategy for organizational improvement, enriched with personal anecdotes from his hiking adventures and musical background. The episode wraps up with insights on Chris's travel approach during work trips and how listeners can connect with him for further knowledge. For more information about Chris, please visit his website at www.chrisdyer.com.
The whole crew is here on this one- Zack, Jim, Andy, Andrew and Danny, all discussing their recent travels. Jim's hiking trips, Zack's family vacations, Andy's trip to see the eclipse totality and Andrew's Vermont vacation. Looking for north east travel ideas? Give a listen!
It's time to reflect on the past with Zack, Jim, Andy, Andrew, Danny and Jackie. The gang's all here for this one! No, not the dinosaur past but the recent past and how things have changed. Seat belt laws, smoking sections, sunscreen, drinking water, and 4H Camp stories. Listen up, you've Dirked!
The boys are back drinking.... soda. Do you remember Season 2, when we investigated if soda is a dirty word? Three years later we're digging up this topic once again. Instead of sticking to the big soda guys (Coca Cola, I'm looking at you) we're drinking periphery soda brands- Fresca, Moxie, Jones, well you'll have to listen to find out whatever else. Joining Zack and Jim are Andrew Burnett of Drew's Honeybees, Andy Heist and Danny Lamothe. What soda do you like best? And is it still a dirty word?
Ah! The flowers are in bloom and it must be spring. For our spring episode, we're lucky to have Andy Heist with us in studio. After begging him for many years to come on Backyard Road Trips, he finally graced us with his presence. In addition to Andy, Zack's son Danny, his wife Jackie and his mom, Linda stop by to say hello. The group talk about all fun things coming up this spring including a new walk series from the Last Green Valley, Plymouth's (MA) craft beverage scene, and readying the house and garden for the season. All the while they try Jim's homemade hot sauce (delicious!) with him describing what goes into the hot sauce making process. Along with the sauce, they're sipping beer from home brewer, Mark Winters. To cool their palate, they sample three local vanilla ice creams; Arethusa Farms, Batch, and Hood while hearing about Andy's solar eclipse trip.
Zack and Jim have one thing to talk about, and that is Philadelphia. Zack recently got back from an outing to the City of Brotherly Love and shares with us the whole itinerary. From breweries to historic places, museums to Philly food, they talk about the best that the city has to offer. Along with travel tidbits of what to do in the present day, the duo share hilarious memories from Philly visits from yore. Toward the end of the show, another Philly traveler, Zack's son, Danny gives his two cents about what he likes to do for Philly phun. All while Zack and Jim sip on canned vodka sodas from Stateside Vodka of Philadelphia.
Today we sit down with Ken Lamothe, Radio DJ/C-movie actor/slow pitch softball legend and Zack's dad to talk about his very favorite backyard road trips. The conversation touches on all of the most important topics; craft beer, vacations, ear piercings and backyard floods. Jim, Zack and Ken all discuss what surprising locations have made the best road trip destinations and how to enjoy the culture of a place.
Jim and Zack bring in some hired help for this taste test; Danny and Ken- with three generations of Lamothes in all. They sit around and drink... milk substitutes. Tell the cows to stay in the barn because they sample Oat, Almond, and Soy. Which fake milk do you think came out on top?
Leading off for Season 5 is a special two part combined episode, a before and after guide to New York City. In the first half of the episode Jim asks Zack about his upcoming overnight to New York City. For the first time and after much pleading by his oldest for years, Zack is bringing the family to the Big Apple. He gives a rundown of what they plan to see. For the second half, Jim and Zack get back together for Zack to give a play by play of what they actually did. Zack's son Danny helps detail their NYC adventure. Take a listen to New York City- the plan vs the reality.
Author and educator, Ian Cheney joins Zack and Jim to showcase their new podcast project, Red and White at Silver. As graduates of the Norwich Free Academy (CT) Class of 2001, the three are in the midst of recording this new podcast. As a preview, Ian, Zack and Jim describe what the new podcast is all about. They also share their own experiences as students at Norwich Free Academy, what makes the school extraordinary and even get to the root of Ian's last name.
If any Class of '01 NFA graduates are interested in being a guest on the Red and White at Silver podcast, please email backyardroadtrips@gmail.com.
Annually Jim and Zack taste fall beers for this podcast. It dawned on them that they have never held an actual Oktoberfest-only beer taste test. Atoning for their past sins, this was remedied with a taste test with everything under the Oktoberfest umbrella. These include the namesake Oktoberfest beers, Fest Biers and Marzens. In sampling, the pair talk about the differentiation of styles, rank what they like, and additionally discuss a home project they are currently working on.
Our friend Tim posed an episode idea for us, "What makes a backyard road trip enjoyable?" Zack misinterpreted and he really wanted us to discuss actual backyards. Anyhoo, Zack and Jim discuss what makes a backyard road trip enjoyable. The duo come to an agreement about some risk vs reward balance. They analyze what goes into a backyard road trip- how far is the location? parking? kid accessibility? cost? Through this they discuss trips that the reward certainly outweighs the risk. Also, Zack discusses some of his favorite restaurants, natural areas and beaches on the South Shore of Massachusetts and Jim details what there is to do in eastern and central Connecticut.
Wipe away your negative "conn"otations of Connecticut, we're talking about all the positives of this small state. We've changed the name of the Nutmeg State and changed it to "Pronecticut" (get it, like the opposite of Con-necticut is Pro-necticut?). Redwoods, land locked sand dunes, and tobacco sheds- all found in this great state as well as historic preservation, wild parrots, and lobster rolls. While they're chatting they are sipping on seven Connecticut craft beers. The episode features special guest Ken Lamothe, who is not only Zack's dad but a Connecticut enthusiast and a craft beer connoisseur.
Zack, Jim and special guest, Danny, talk all about a recent trip to Seattle. They discuss which places that should be on your travel bucket list. Danny gives a kid perspective of the Seattle trip including plane travel, the Space Needle and going to a Seattle Mariners game. They also discuss interior Washington with forays into North Cascades National Park and Leavenworth. While talking about travel, they sip on four kinds of water: town tap water, well water, Smart Water and Clover Valley. As lifelong musicians, Jim and Zack also elaborate on current music listening tastes and playlist projects.
We're talking summer travel, in particular trips to Prince Edward Island, the Portland area in Maine, Vermont and Saratoga Springs. Katie Wheeler, Jim's wife, joins us to discuss her recent visit to PEI seeking out all things Anne of Green Gables. Zack shares with the group his visits to Portland and Saratoga Springs. Zack's son, Danny adds his two cents about his travel this summer. All of this is discussed while sipping on an array of Connecticut's own Fox Farm beers. (pictured Saratoga National Historical Park)
Let's rev up that Husqvarna because it's time for a blind taste test of lawnmower beers. So what beers exactly? Not cheap a la Natural Light but certainly not craft. Jim and Zack try to find the best value beer. Jackie helps the boys by masterminding the operation aka pouring the beers in unmarked cups. Listen to see how poorly Zack and Jim guessed.
| Zack | Jim | Actual | | Miller Lite | Foster | Miller Lite | | Bud Lite | Bud Lite | Coors Lite | | Corona | PBR | Bud Light | | Fosters | Corona | PBR | | PBR | High Life | High Life | | High Life | Miller Lite | Fosters | | Coors Lite | Coors Light | Corona |
Jim and Zack catch up on their recent travels. Zack recently wrote a few articles about lighthouses on the Backyard Road Trips website. The pair discuss the lighthouse road trips- favorite lighthouses, and how the the articles were researched and written. As an aside, they also talk about Jim's issues with the Massachusetts RMV. Zack also explains the newest monthly BYRT posts which highlight one theme such as beaches in June, flowers in May, and so on. Hopefully, this will inspire your own summertime lighthouse tour!
Adam "Barbarossa" Coletti is back for round two! Adam, or for this episode "Barbarossa" digs deep into his life as a biker and shares stories of his time on two wheels. He tells us about entry into his motorcycle club, club rituals, and how to get patched. Zack and Jim bring the heat as they grill Adam on club guidelines as well as do's and don't's.
We warmly welcome the good reverend, "Fast" Adam Coletti. This is the interview you've all been waiting for and we've waited four years to get him on. This is part one of a two episode interview with Adam. Zack and Adam have been friends for roughly 40 years and Jim and Adam for a good 25. Adam shares the backstory of his nicknames "Fast Adam" and "the Reverend". He takes a walk down memory lane with stories of his quick tenure in Philadelphia, former jobs, and the time he pretended he was part of an organized crime syndicate.
Jim and Zack bring in a special guest for this episode, Danny! Danny, Zack's seven-year-old son, shares his top backyard road trips with us. At seven, Danny tells all about his adventures including trips to Maine, Vermont, and Philadelphia. He weighs in on his favorite children's museums. Adam Coletti also drops in for a quick hello. The crew talks ice cream, Shamrock Shakes, and Disney World.
Surf's up! It's time to catch a wave because Jim and Zack are surfing the web. Sometimes these road trippers hang up their hiking boots and travel virtually. Find out what websites they recommend for virtual exploration, travel planning, and fun diversions.
The boys are sampling drinks once again. This time it's a truly informative hard seltzer taste test. Featuring special guest, Jaclyn "Jackie" Lamothe, they sample hard seltzer from Bud Light, Truly, Two Roads, and White Claw. Which do you think they will like the best?
Zack and Jim welcome perennial guest, Drew Burnett of Drew's Honeybees to discuss his theory of male intimacy. Drew regales us with tales, both historically, literary, and even personally, of male bonding through sharing a blanket and a pipe. From Abraham Lincoln to Moby Dick, instances of this are highlighted by Drew who also dips into his own past. As Drew says, "we're nothing but social hominids, and we only need a pipe, a blanket, and a friend."
Jim and Zack welcome back Drew Burnett of Drew's Honeybees to talk about cinnamon. He has the boys sample cinnamon trying to figure out which is the actual spice. Drew breaks down the difference in products all called "cinnamon" and the importance of quality ingredients in what we eat.
Happy New Year and welcome to the kickoff of season four of the Backyard Road Trips podcast! As it is early January and (most of us) have kept our New Year's resolutions thus far, Jim and Zack thought it would be prime time for a non-alcoholic beer taste test. Many folks shoot for a "dry January" so what better to supplement the resolution than a few non-alcoholic beers from Athletic Brewing Company? Unlike many in the genre, these are actually tasty! Hear what the boys like the best in the latest episode.
The conversation with Jon and Beth continues. More beer talk, Cincinnati talk, their respective careers, and favorite outdoorsy activities. Learn why you won't find them at Cincinnati Reds games and about the city's abandoned subway system. Find Jon at @echoingblue and Beth at @summer.loving.torture.party on Instagram.
Jim and Zack catch up with an old friend, Jon Hnatiuk, and his wife, Beth Himburg. These two adventurers live in Cincinnati and share with us some of their favorite backyard road trips and favorite beers in and around the Queen City.
Zack and Jim are back on the soda wagon, or off, whatever the one is that means you are drinking once again. Back by popular demand, the boys are drinking soda. This time the big gulps like Coke and Pepsi are off the table and we're focusing on local and smaller batch? brand? distribution? whatever the case may be, these are harder to find. From prebiotic soda to spicy Jamaican ginger beer, it's time to crack open a cold one and listen in. The competitors are Poppi, IBC, Foxon Park, Bawls and Goya.
Last season, the boys took on the hamburgers of the Big 3 fast food restaurants (McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's). This year, they're sampling the chicken nuggets from all three (plus sneaking a few french fries in there). Which nuggets are the best? Who has the best fries? Listen to find out!
The boys brought this one upon themselves, they asked their respective wives to make a list of what annoys them about their husbands. Oh my! The ladies air their grievances with hilarious results. Jim and Zack skew each other by listing off the complaint while the other one defends their own position. Has Festivus come early?
Three times a charm so we're back for the third annual pumpkin beer taste test here at Backyard Road Trips! With pumpkin beer selections from Smuttynose, New Belgium, Timberyard, and Southern Tier as well as from others, Jim and Zack do the difficult research for you to determine the king of pumpkin beers for 2022!
Jim, Zack, and special guest Drew discuss all kinds of things, from tasting diet soda to camping, bears, and how they deal with telemarketers. Hang on tight, it's going to be a bumpy ride!
Jim and Zack bring in an old friend, Drew Burnett of Drew's Honeybees to chat about their hometown of Norwich, Connecticut, and eastern Connecticut on the whole. They discuss the natural wonders of the area including Sprague Land Trust, Mohegan Park, and Lantern Hill. They also talk about a bad time at a wine tasting, going into anaphylactic shock, and the Department of Public Works. Fun was had by all!
Author James Rourke stops by to say hello and chats with Jim and Zack about his new book, Stone Souls. The conversation touches on subjects including the writing process, Rourke's other published works, his upcoming book events, and even a few obscure sports references. Check out James online at https://james-rourke-author.com/.
And as always, stay up to date with the latest backyard road trips at www.backyardroadtrips.com.
You can finish the rest of that song... But here we are, sweating with the oldies on a 90-something degree day, drinking, of all things, Bourbon barrel-aged beers! Maybe you associate these beers with cooler weather, and maybe we do too, but with Jim's collection complete, it was time that Zack and Jim dig into these fine Bourbon barrel-aged beers. They discuss the highs and lows of beers by brands including Goose Island, Founders, and New Holland. Cheers!
Yuck! Jim and Zack are drinking bad beer and talking about it. Well, let's be honest, are these actually bad? You have to listen to find out. Hear them imbibe and discuss, discuss and imbibe. Tell us what beer makes your bad beer list! And just wait until they eat the broccoli slaw...
Jim and Zack sit down with whiskey expert, Irene Tan. Irene, who is a Level 3 Whiskey Sommelier schools them about all things whiskey. She runs the consulting business, Whisky Mentors, and also owns the store, Canterbury Liquors. Irene talks to us about what makes a whiskey great (hint: it's not what you'd think) and about her worldwide whiskey travels.
Let's get back to basics. This means let's talk travel. Jim and Zack share different road trips that they have gone on recently and others that are on the horizon including trips to New Hampshire, Vermont, and even to, gasp, Disney World, and Las Vegas! Zack also discusses his latest project, describing the research for his current book-in-the-works, Distilled in Boston. Foot in mouth, Zack also divulges some travel mishaps that have occurred along the way!
Jim and Zack have the pleasure to talk with an old friend, author, and historian, Ian Cheney. Ian recently released the book, "Who Made the West: A Ranking of the 30 Most Influential Figures in Western History." Just as the title says, the book countdowns from number thirty to number one, the individuals who have influenced western civilization the most. Cheney is also the author of the blog and podcast, Presidential Politics for America. The trio discusses history, politics, the art of teaching high school and they share a few laughs along the way.
Zack and Jim sit down with two of Connecticut's premier historical preservation activists, Dayne Rugh and Regan Miner. As the region's historic power couple, Regan and Dayne share a lot of history and a lot of laughs with our hosts. With Regan's work at the Norwich Historical Society and Dayne's at Slater Memorial Museum and the Leffingwell House, they have dedicated their careers to promoting regional history and historic preservation. They share their favorite aspects of eastern Connecticut, why historical preservation matters, and dig into the life of Benedict Arnold. Look for a special guest cameo from the author, Ian Cheney at the end of the episode.
For more information, please check out the following websites; www.walknorwich.org, www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org, www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org, and www.slatermuseum.org
Zack, Jim, and special guest, Danny, dive in for the Great Milk Challenge! They guess what kind of milk they are drinking. Well, Jim and Danny drink and guess while Zack pours. They share some funny milk stories while interviewing Danny about his favorite state, Maine!
Zack, Jim, and special guest, Laurie Knitter (Auntie Foot) sit around and drink coffee. Well, not hot coffee, bottled coffee products from brands including Dunkin, Starbucks, Speedwell and Coca Cola. Zack and Laurie guess what Jim pours them with mixed results. They discuss what they like and what they don't. What's your favorite cup of coffee?
Greetings! Well, believe it or not, we're starting our third season! Surprise, surprise Jim, and Zack are tasting beer once again. This time they sample a selection of six winter beers from Massachusetts breweries including Tree House, Black Hat and Mayflower. They discuss what makes a beer a "winter beer" as well as the research for upcoming blog posts. This episode is a family affair as Zack's son, Danny joins in for a rousing version of "Jingle Bells" and his dad, Uncle Ken, stops in for a sip.
Jim and Zack interview Zack's wife, Jackie about packing for trips. With two small kids at home, she shares the difficult process of packing for trips, long or short, with kids. She lets the listeners know how she often has to repack for her husband as he lacks the necessary packing skills. In addition to road trip stories, the conversation leads to that of readying the family pet snails for a few days on their own. Not only packing, the discussion eventually gets to unpacking once at the destination. Let's get packing!
Homebrewer, Mark Winters lets Jim and Zack (and Jackie) sample a few of his delicious beers. Mark's brewery name is Urbrau Uttingtron, which is an homage to his home area of Germany and the old style of beer that he brews. He discusses how he started brewing, historic beer tidbits, and explains all about the beer that they are drinking. His libations tend to err on the side of traditional styles and not the uber-popular current trend of hazy IPAs. Grab yourself a cold one and enjoy! Check out what beers of his are on tap at Urbrau Uttingtron Taplist.
It's mid-November and the fall is in full swing. (Don't think about putting up those Christmas lights yet!) With turkey and stuffing on the horizon, it's time to crack open a few fall seasonal beers to combat the newfound chill in the air. In this episode, Jim, Zack and special guest, Jackie sample a roundup of great autumn craft beer. Selections include Wormtown, Two Roads, and Southern Tier among others. Which one is their favorite? Listen to find out!
It's that time of year again! Zack and Jim dive into the eerie side of things with the Black Crow Junior Paranormal team. Based out of Bozrah, Connecticut's haunted antique shop, the Primitive Crow, the Black Crow team is a group of passionate paranormal investigators led by Maddox Coletti. Also on the podcast is Black Crow member Lilah Miller. Find out how this group of young paranormal investigators got started and what successes they've had. Listen closely, you just might hear something spooky! The videographer for this podcast is Giovanni Adavelli.
Well, kids, it's finally here. Zack has never eaten a McDonald's or Wendy's hamburger. Jim puts him up to the challenge. He samples burgers from McDonald's, Wendy's, and Burger King and guesses which is which based on look and taste. While chewing, Zack inquires about Jim's dietary habits and what foods he eats and tells about his adventures acquiring the burgers.
Zack and Jim step out of their beverage element with a stop at a tea room. They interview Missy Sullivan of the Victoria Grace Tea Room which is located inside the Primitive Crow in Bozrah, CT. This episode is recorded on-site inside the tea room. They chat about the evolution of the tea room, what is offered for an afternoon tea, the origins of the tea they serve, and plenty of "tea" puns!
Zack and Jim talk about all things travel with Linda Orlomoski, better known as The Distracted Wanderer. Linda is an avid explorer on both the global and local levels. She writes detailed accounts of her experiences on her blog, The Distracted Wanderer as well as for publications including Norwich Magazine and the Norwich Bulletin newspaper. They chat about favorite places to travel internationally, the charm of New England and the benefits of travel insurance.
Jim and Zack talk with Matt Woodward, creator, and hiker extraordinaire at ExploreCT.org. Matt discusses what led him to create his website, how he finds new hikes, and his most memorable hikes. For more information about Matt and ExploreCT, please visit, www.exploreCT.org, the most detailed resource for hikes in Connecticut.
We've come full circle as Zack and Jim tackle post-Covid travel plans. They discuss travel differences in recent states they have visited including Arizona, Tennessee, and Vermont as well as their home states of Massachusetts and Connecticut respectively. What are your summer travel plans?
Even though it's only June, it's starting to feel like October in the Backyard Road Trips studio! Jim and Zack chat with Brandi from DOA Supernatural. They discuss hauntings going on at the Primitive Crow antique shop in Bozrah, Connecticut. She also shares other paranormal tales from her childhood to the present day.
This podcast is making me hungry! Zack and Jim talk about their favorite meals. Zack gives an overview of a recent blog series on the Backyard Road Trips website about restaurants and they share restaurants that they would drive hours for. Listen for all the Sly Stallone references!
We're back!! After a few months of travel restrictions and coronavirus Jim and Zack are at it again. For the first episode of the new season, they catch up on what they've missed since the first of the year. They talk hikes, food, future travel and beer. Witness the Miracle Berry, as they sample sour beer before and after trying the Miracle Berry. The results are astonishing!
Whoa! The sun has gone down and Backyard Road Trips is turning out the lights. For this "after dark" episode we're looking at scandals, mayhem, pandemonium! Or Jim and Zack are at it again but this time they are discussing merry mishaps that they've encountered in their past. From driving a car into a movie theater to swiping lobsters this episode will have you rolling in the aisles.
And we're happy to announce they we were recently featured as one of Feedspot's "Top 20 Road Trip Podcasts to Listen to in 2021!" https://blog.feedspot.com/road_trip_podcasts/
Well, Zack and Jim are drinking again but this time it is soda! Jim gets to sample three colas blindly and is surprised by the results. They discuss the state of the craft soda industry and why soda is considered a dirty word. They mention their favorite local brands such as Simpson Spring and Hosmer Mountain.
Well, guys, it's winter. In New England, it can get pretty bleak. Have no fear though, Backyard Road Trips is here! Jim and Zack talk about what winter trips they have planned and how they plan to spend the hibernation months. They also discuss hobbies that they like to partake in during the winter as well as Christopher Cross, Sam Adams mixed packs, and visiting the zoo.
Welcome to the world of homemade mead making! Jim discusses the mead making process. Zack and Jim sample a few types of mead and Zack shares his mediocre home brew experience. Finally, they sample whiskey and talk about adventures in fatherhood.
Happy Holidays! Jim and Zack share their favorite holiday traditions. Of course, this isn't just Christmas cookies and egg nog, the duo details their favorite personal holiday traditions. From Zack putting up a beer can tree to Jim's unusual Christmas tree disposal method, the pair share what the season has in store.
Jim and Zack catch up with one another after a few weeks away from the recording studio. Proud new papa, Jim talks with Zack about how life has changed since the birth of his son. Zack discusses his new book, A History Lover's Guide to the South Shore, recent articles he's written on the Backyard Road Trips website, and favorite meals he's had. Finally, they banter about seasonal craft beer and fantasy football.
Zack and Jim interview Drew Burnett, founder of Drew's Honeybees. Drew's Honeybees is a natural, organic skincare company based out of Norwich, CT. The company specializes in lip and body balms that are environmentally friendly and whose proceeds go to honeybee conservation. Drew chats with us about his products, what you can do to protect the honeybees, and his favorite backyard road trips. Drew then joins us for a rundown of Top 10 Fall Activities which includes the best driving routes, cider doughnuts and cemetery walks in New England.
For more information about Drew's Honeybees, check them out online at www.drewshoneybees.com, which includes their online store.
Halloween is almost here! Zack and Jim share with you some of their favorite oddities and spooky things. Zack details stories from his collections of folklore, Connecticut Lore. From ghosts of Norwichtown to the last wolf in Connecticut, the stories they share are slightly scary but mostly entertaining.
Jim and Zack blindly taste seven pumpkin beers. Special guest, Jackie Lamothe helps moderate and adds her two cents. The beers tasted include; Shovel Town, Southern Tier, Samuel Adams, Spencer Trappist, Blue Point, Two Roads, and Shipyard. Can you guess which beer tops our list? And then Zack lists ten beers inspired by Michael McDonald songs.
Zack and Jim discuss how COVID has impacted their travel plans this summer. Jim describes how he adapted his trips to the White Mountains and the Adirondacks. Zack elaborates on how he has made the best of living in Plymouth, MA this summer. They both share with us their favorite craft beers from the last few months. The Q & A session involves places that were not what they expected and the best (and worst) places to bring kids.
Welcome to Backyard Road Trips! Backyard Road Trips has been a website exploring all things in our own backyards (literal and figurative) for two years. Now we've expanded to a podcast too!
In Episode 1, Zack and Jim discuss the origins of Backyard Road Trips. Jim talks about his favorite hikes in Connecticut (as well as some of his least favorite). Zack describes backyard road tripping as a kid to unusual places with his folks. Atthe end of the episode, they answer your questions about places they've avoided and first favorite craft breweries.