After a brutal winter, spring in the Hudson Valley isn't just a temperature change—it’s a shift in soul. In this episode, Cidiot® explores the "palpable optimism" of the season, from the practical (and messy) realities of country living to the psychological power of starting fresh.

Mat shares his 7-step guide to mastering spring upstate—covering everything from the melody of melting creeks and the return of outdoor farmers' markets to the essential "joiner" culture of CSAs. We also hear a moving reflection on the deeper meaning of the season.

And from a conversation with Cidiot listener Jacqui Rose, we discuss the concept of "Springing Through" grief, the healing power of the Hudson Valley landscape, and the importance of rebuilding community after loss.

Episode highlights:

• The Mud & The Melody: Why muck boots are your most important spring investment.
• Country Logistics: Fixing gravel driveways and the "Project" mindset.
• The Return of the Outdoors: Ending the boycott of indoor farmers' markets and the hunt for the best farm stands (Copake, Kingston, Montgomery Place, MX Morningstar, and Samascott Orchards).
• Car Soccer Memories: A tribute to Red Hook’s legendary (and flammable) town event.
• CSA 101: Why you should join a Community Supported Agriculture program (and yes, you will use all that lettuce).
• Spring Flavors: What’s actually in season, from ramps and fiddlehead ferns to maple syrup.
• Healing in the Valley: Jacqui Rose on moving through grief, becoming a "joiner," and finding a home in Slow Food Hudson Valley.

Special Event Mention: Wild Hudson Valley, a fundraiser presented by Rigor Hill Farm at Liberty Farms.

• Date: Sunday, April 26
• Benefit: Supports Slow Food Hudson Valley
• Tickets at Slow Food Hudson Valley site

Links to highlights mentioned in the episode:

• Slow Food Hudson Valley
• Montgomery Orchard Wayside Stand, Red Hook
• Hearty Roots Community Farm, Clermont
• MX Morningstar, Claverack
• Samascott Orchards, Kinderhook
• Kingston Farmers Market, Kingston
• Copake Hillsdale Farmers Market, Hillsdale
• Hudson Valley CSA Coalition

Guest editor: Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio and host of the other most-awarded podcast in the region, Kaatcast: The Catskills Podcast.

This episode's sponsor: Super-extra thanks to long-time Cidiot listener Jacqui Rose for sponsoring this beautiful episode and sharing her story, and helping us all “Spring through.”

(If you'd like to sponsor an episode of Cidiot, please reach out via the Contact Us page at Cidiot.com.)

Thanks, everyone, for tuning into magical Season 9!

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©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.