It's Pothole Season!

What downtown have you explored the most this summer? We’re sharing a charming new spot you’ll want to visit year-round — hint: it looks like it was pulled straight from a Hallmark movie! This week, Sharon and Stacy recap their time representing Discover Long Island at some exciting partner activations, including the First Annual Oyster Jamboree at Smith Point County Park and Tyler Hubbard live at the Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill! They also dive into some current hot topics, including controversial school bans, and share a heartwarming story about a local Long Islander who turned a difficult moment into something special for his daughter as she heads off to school each day. Plus — did someone say PIZZA FESTIVAL coming to Long Island?! 🍕 Don’t miss this fun and inspiring episode!#ShowUsYourLongIslander Long Island’s own Ryan Wosleger — better known as the “Snack Bag Dad”!What started as a simple doodle on a brown paper bag to cheer up his daughter during the pandemic became a powerful creative outlet that helped Ryan rediscover himself—and sparked a movement. After feeling stuck and unheard in corporate America, Ryan turned to drawing snack bag art each morning for his daughter, Briar. Those drawings transformed into detailed scenes—from space adventures to Disney characters—and quickly became the highlight of her school day. Now, he’s teaching kids and parents across Long Island at USDAN Summer Camp how to turn everyday lunch bags into tiny masterpieces. He’s saved every bag he’s ever made and plans to turn them into a book for his daughter someday—hoping she’ll be a “snack bag mom” in the future. From one small act of love came a whole new life path.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending us a DM, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x 400 or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLife NEW BLOG: Long Island Downtowns: NorthportNorthport, Long Island is a waterfront village full of charm, history, and postcard-perfect views. It’s been a beloved getaway since the 1800s—and still feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie.Read more at www.discoverlongisland.com/blogLong Island is finally getting its own Pizza Festival on September 13th at Mill Dam Park in Huntington! After years of planning, the event will showcase the Island’s best pizzerias—featuring a mix of artisanal pies and classic slices cooked in wood, gas, and electric ovens. Suffolk County Officer Brendon Gallagher, who nearly lost his life in a high-speed crash earlier this year, reached a huge milestone this weekend—throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at Citi Field before the Mets’ win over the Mariners. SAVE THE DATE: NYC Broadway Week is happening September 8th-21stFor more information visit playbill.com - which show is on your bucket list this year??CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX (Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you.Shop Long Island Apparel:shop.discoverlongisland.comCheck out our favorite products on Amazon:amazon.com/shop/discoverlongislandBe sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26 Aug 202540min

We’re spilling the tea on everything from divine encounters to Disney Channel nostalgia this week, Hot Teas! Tune in as we share the incredible story of how the Pope casually blessed Long Island (yes, really), preview a star-studded weekend lineup, and highlight how Long Island continues to lead the way in clean energy, culture, and community. From brunch spots to blockbuster concerts, local legends to national news, we’ve got a jam-packed episode you don’t want to miss.#ShowUsYourLongIslanderEach week, we shine a spotlight on a standout Long Island local who’s made waves in the community or online! Whether it’s a loyal Hot Tea listener who never misses an episode, a viral social media sensation putting Long Island on the map, or a good Samaritan going above and beyond for others — this is your moment to shine.Last week, we teased that the Pope had blessed Long Island, and now we’re sharing the full story! Harrison Voorhees of Brightwaters had an unexpected brush with the Pope during a family trip to Rome. While in St. Peter’s Square, Harrison stood on a chair as the Pope passed by in the Popemobile. Unsure of what to say, he shouted out, “Chaminade, Long Island!” referencing his former Catholic school. The Pope responded with a thumbs up, repeated “Long Island,” and gave a sign of the cross — offering a small but mighty blessing for our Island. The moment nearly didn’t happen, as the family had originally planned to visit the Colosseum that day, but changed plans last-minute to attend the papal appearance.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending us a DM, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x 400 or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLifeGolfers sleeping in cars so they can play a Long Island course ahead of Ryder Cup?!NEW BLOG: Long Island Downtowns – PatchogueOnce lined with vacant storefronts, Downtown Patchogue has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub on Long Island’s South Shore. With restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and an ever-growing arts scene, this walkable downtown is perfect for a weekend getaway. Read the full blog at discoverlongisland.com/blog#ThisWeekendOnLongIslandFriday, August 22Bop to the Top at The Paramount, HuntingtonAnything Goes – CM Performing Arts Center, OakdaleDinosaur Adventure – White Post Farms, MelvilleSaturday, August 23Disney Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour – UBS ArenaMike DelGuidice & Big Shot – Westhampton Beach Performing Arts CenterSunday, August 24Hampton Classic Horse Show – Opening DayFor more events and details, visit discoverlongisland.com or download the Discover Long Island mobile app.#CelebriTEAMetallica to Play Intimate Show at Amagansett's Stephen TalkhouseFreakier Friday Now in Theaters – Starring Jamie Lee Curtis & Long Island’s Own Lindsay LohanCONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX (Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you.Shop Long Island Apparel:shop.discoverlongisland.comCheck out our favorite products on Amazon:amazon.com/shop/discoverlongislandBe sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 Aug 202541min

We're cheerful as ever this week with our new studio setup Hot Teas! Be sure to check out this week's episode on YouTube to see our fabulous new additions - the ladies share some exciting happenings as summer begins to wind down (we're not saying come to a close, we refuse) between another amazing shoutout for our Show Us Your Long Islander segment, fun events and local celebrities making waves, we have a great episode lined up for YOU'Z!#ShowUsYourLongIslanderToday’s shoutout honors two fallen heroes who are no longer with us but continue to inspire through the legacy they left behind. New York State Troopers Fabio Buttitta of Deer Park (age 31) and Thomas O’Niel of East Islip (age 56) were both recently memorialized with bridges renamed in their honor along the Sagtikos Parkway, near the Brentwood headquarters where they served.We remember and thank Troopers Buttitta and O’Niel for their courage, dedication, and the lasting impact they've made on Long Island and beyond.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending us a DM, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x 400 or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLife NEW BLOG: Long Island Downtowns: HuntingtonLocated right along Long Island’s North Shore, Downtown Huntington is perfect for history buffs, foodies, photogs, and everyone in between. Think historic museums, delicious dining, boutique shopping, and artsy fun. From morning coffee to evening cocktails, it's the kind of place that makes it easy to spend the whole day exploring. If coastal charm and brewery golden retrievers sound like your thing, then put Huntington on your must-visit list. Read the full blog for your complete Huntington day trip itinerary — and discover why this town belongs on your must-visit list at discoverlongisland.com/blogLong Island native, 112, sets Guinness Record as World’s Oldest Living NunA Central Islip native has spent nearly a century in service to others through the Catholic church, and now, she holds a Guinness World Record to show for it. At 112 years old, Sister Francis Dominici Piscatella has officially been named the world’s oldest living nun.#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland Friday, August 15-Last Day of Hero Appreciation Week at Splish SplashSaturday, August 16-Long Island Oyster Jamboree at Smith Point County Beach-Tyler Hubbard at Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill-Dan’s White Party at RGNY Vineyard, Riverhead-Back to School Bash at The Shoppes at East Wind-Bass Creek Kayak & Sandflat Exploration at Mashomack Preserve For more events to check out and detailed info please visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app!#CelebriTEA Long Island’s Busta Rhymes added to the Hollywood Walk of FameMichael J. Fox to appear at Southampton movie event celebrating 'Back to the Future'CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/ DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you! Shop Long Island Apparel!shop.discoverlongisland.com Be sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12 Aug 202537min

Don’t rush through your summer Hot Teas — or your prepodcast primping! Sharon and Stacy are keeping it real this week and promise they’re not being prima donnas.We’re in full SWING mode here at Discover Long Island as our team preps for the Ryder Cup coming to Long Island next month! And while we hate to mention winter, planning is officially underway for our 2025 Tourism Awards Gala!This week, the ladies dive into some Long Island-inspired reads, spotlight iconic local landmarks, and feature another amazing local in our Show Us Your Long Islander segment.Have a story we should share? Don’t forget to write in — we’d love to hear from you!#ShowUsYourLongIslanderToday’s shoutout goes to Michael Rabinowitz of Amityville — a Long Islander turning personal loss into community impact. After losing his mom Barbara to Alzheimer’s, Michael partnered with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and former State Senator Chuck Fuschilio to open the Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center — the first-of-its-kind on Long Island. The center offers support for both Alzheimer’s patients and their families, with unique features like a travel training room (complete with real LIRR and airplane seats), plus memory games, karaoke, sensory bingo, and more. Through his foundation, Michael’s long supported causes like MS and special needs — and now, he’s helping thousands of local families navigate dementia with dignity and care. Cheers to you, Michael — a true Long Islander making a real difference.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending us a DM, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x 400 or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLife August 9th - Book Lover’s DayMust‑Read Releases Set on Long IslandListen for our favorites!Add these Long Island Roadside attractions to your Summer Bucket List! Fire Island Lighthouse Smithtown BullThe Big DuckAviation Artifacts at Grumman Memorial ParkMechanical Wing Flapping Eagle at Stony Brook Post OfficeObelisk at Vietnam Veterans MemorialMontauk Point LighthouseThe Star GazerDid we miss any spots Hot Teas? Write to us and we might share your favorite on a future episode! (@longislandteapodcast / spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com)Friday, August 8thRocket Man - A Tribute to Elton John at The Paramount (Huntington)Happy Hour at Blackstone, One10, & more! Phantom at The Gateway in BellportWhale Watching on the Viking Star in MontaukSaturday, August 9thAdam Ezra Group at Long Island Game Farm Songbird Sessions ConcertJoseph Lloyd Manor Tours with Preservation Long IslandLive Music at Lily’s Seaside at Silly Lily Fishing Station (Center Moriches)Weekend Brunch in The SHED Restaurants (All locations)Sunday, August 10thMadagascar - A Musical Adventure at CM Performing Arts Center (Oakdale)For more events to check out and detailed info please visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app!CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/ DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you! Be sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

5 Aug 202542min

This one is for the animal lovers... and our golden hot teas! We're chatting all about our new little lizard friends finding their way all across the island! While they may be cute we have more to highlight with some amazing outdoor dining spots to frequent this summer and an incredible Long Islander of the week who knows how to fight for what she loves despite her past. #ShowUsYourLongIslander This week’s Long Islander shoutout Gilda Zirinsky, a Holocaust survivor who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, has been working out at the Strength in Mobility fitness center in Manhasset through boxing and strength training. Given her bravery in surviving this horrific era of her live, some days she fights back tears and others she just fights… For the last seven years, Gilda has been taking boxing and strengthening classes. She says she loves doing it every second because she can get out all of her frustration and remain active. Gilda’s story is an incredible reminder of the strength, resilience and passion that comes from our community while also supporting a local business at the Fitness Center she frequents.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending us a DM, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x 400 or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLifeLong Island’s wall lizard population is booming, and spreading eastFor more than 60 years, these warm-weather lizards have been crawling their way through Nassau and Suffolk counties, with the past decade seeing a noticeable uptick in sightings.In Central Suffolk, scores of lizards started appearing in large numbers in the Centereach and Selden areas this spring.Have you seen these lizards pop up where you live? Write to us or CALL and let us know your stories on our new Long Island natives!NEW BLOG: Long Island Outdoor Dining SpotsDon’t skip out on the warm fresh air while dining and sit outdoors! It’s what we all look forward to all year long: outdoor dining. Long Island has dockside dining, beachside dining, classic patio dining, and even airconditioned igloo dining, so pick your preferred view and check out the venue options for your next meal.Read more at discoverlongisland.com/blog#ThisWeekendOnLongIslandFriday, August 1st-Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Wilco, Lucinda Williams & More at Jones Beach Theater-Spend the weekend at Adventureland!-Discovery Wetlands Cruise in Stony Brook-Paumonok Vineyards Sunset Fridays in RiverheadSaturday, August 2nd-Saturday Night Fireworks Spectacular at Long Island Ducks-All New NEON NIGHTS at Splish Splash! (check out our TikTok for a preview!)-Craft Fair at The Shoppes at East Wind-LIRR and Metro-North Summer Saturdays!For more events to check out and detailed info please visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app!CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/ DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you! Shop Long Island Apparel!shop.discoverlongisland.com Check out our favorite products on Amazon!amazon.com/shop/discoverlongisland Be sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

29 Juli 202537min

This week, Sharon and Stacy are back with a jam-packed episode filled with excitement and major milestones! Fresh from Destinations International, Sharon shares her experience earning her CDME (Certified Destination Management Executive) — a huge accomplishment and so well deserved! Along with kid-approved itineraries and activities to enjoy here on Long Island, the duo also dishes on their recent content shoot with Benny Migs Photography. (Pro tip: Mention LI Tea and get $100 OFF your first shoot with him!)Book your experience at https://bennymigsphoto.com#ShowUsYourLongIslander!Each week, we shine a spotlight on a standout Long Island local who’s made waves in the community or online! Whether it’s a loyal Hot Tea listener who never misses an episode, a viral social media sensation putting Long Island on the map, or a good Samaritan going above and beyond for others — this is your moment to shine.This week we're actually joined by our Long Islander of the week, Emmy Award–winning producer and author Dan De Filippo, a Smithtown native whose surf-soaked roots shaped a wild journey from East End beaches to Hollywood red carpets. He’s here to share stories behind his nostalgic new novel Montauk Dayz and offer a raw, refreshing perspective on life, creativity, and staying grounded.Grab a copy of his book here: https://a.co/d/henhaLR#LongIslandLifeThis summer, the beloved Long Island Game Farm in Manorville celebrates its 55th anniversary, unveiling a brand-new outdoor Susan M. Novak Stage and a scenic Woodland TrailFamilies can continue hand-feeding gentle animals, enjoying pony rides and zookeeper chats, then settle in for the Songbird Sessions—a relaxing summer concert series running Saturdays from 6–8 PM, featuring local singer-songwriters and national touring actsConcert Dates:July 26 – Brady Rymer & Rising Stars (family-friendly, 3‑time Grammy nominee)August 9 – Adam Ezra Group (folk/rock/soul)August 23 – From Montauk to Nashville featuring Chloe Halpin, Toby Tobias & Lori HubbardSeptember 13 – Patty Larkin & Lucy KaplanskyEvery concert is set in-the-round, nestled among friendly animals, with optional capybara meet-and-greet experiences and bites from Castaway Catering. It’s summer storytelling at its best—live music accompanied by wagging tails, warm memories, and family laughter.#ChariTEAHuntington Village reached out to share more about The Bartender’s League returning Wednesday, July 23 at The Rust & Gold! Long Island’s best bartenders will battle it out using spirits from Beyond Distilling Company — all to benefit KultureCity, a nonprofit creating sensory-inclusive spaces nationwide. $20 at the door gets you unlimited tastings, cocktails, late-night food, and a night out for a great cause.Learn more here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMOFOa_PGmB/CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/Shop Long Island Apparel!shop.discoverlongisland.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

22 Juli 202553min

This week, we’re spilling the tea from the iconic Staller Center for the Arts at Stony Brook University, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Stony Brook Film Festival—a major force in the world of independent film and one of Long Island’s most beloved summer events! 🎬We’re joined by Alan Inkles, the festival’s visionary Director, to give us the inside scoop on this year’s incredible lineup, what goes into curating over 2,000 film submissions, and what to expect from this truly one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.Whether you're a die-hard film buff or just looking for a cool night out this summer, this event is your ticket to exclusive premieres, filmmaker Q&As, and a taste of Hollywood right here on Long Island.🎟 Hot Tea Listener Exclusive:Use code DISCOVERLI at checkout for 25% off a Flex PassView the full schedule and ticket options at stonybrookfilmfestival.com🎞 Some of This Year’s Highlights:Westhampton starring RJ Mitte & Finn WittrockMidas Man – A new take on the Beatles legacyAli Eats America, La Gloria, Mazel Tov, and more!#ShowUsYourLongIslanderEach week, we spotlight a local legend—someone making waves on the Island or online.This week’s pick: @LongIslandWiseGuy 🎥He’s a hilarious, anonymous content creator who captures all the quirks of Long Island life—deli culture, beach-day drama, parking lot chaos, and more. His viral videos feel like inside jokes we’re all in on, and he’s a perfect example of someone using humor to celebrate our unique LI lifestyle.Know someone who deserves the spotlight?DM us, leave a voicemail at 877-386-6654 x400, or email us at spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com#LongIslandLifeICYMI: Fourth of July & Ducks Game VibesWe hope your 4th was filled with sunshine, fireworks, and all the grilled goodness 🍔🌭We also had a blast at the DLI Sponsored Long Island Ducks game recently—huge thank you to everyone who came by the Discover Long Island table and shared the love!🍫 World Chocolate Day May Be Over… But We’re Still Celebrating!Satisfy your sweet tooth with these local favorites:Bon Bons Chocolatier (Huntington)Disset Chocolate (Cutchogue)Glenn’s Donuts (Selden)La Porta (Northport – chocolate gelato goals)Fogo de Chão (Huntington Station & Garden City – try the lava cake!)Northport Hotel (Dark Chocolate Cake that dreams are made of)💘 NEW BLOG: Love Island, But Make It Long IslandWe’re playing matchmaker between you and the perfect LI town this summer—from nightlife-loving Patchogue to bold and beachy Fire Island, mysterious Huntington, and romantic Greenport.It’s cheeky, fun, and totally bingeable.Read it now: discoverlongisland.com/blog#ThisWeekendOnLongIslandFriday, July 11thKidz Bop at Jones Beach Theater (shoutout for the love on socials!)Saturday, July 12thSongbird Sessions: Heart & Soul at Long Island Game FarmNeon Nights at Splish Splash 🌊🎉Explore even more summer events at discoverlongisland.com or by downloading the DLI mobile app!CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/ Shop Long Island Apparel!shop.discoverlongisland.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

8 Juli 202540min

Viral Long Island: TikTok-inspired outings to scope out this summerOur communications team recently worked with New York Post to create an article sharing some viral must-visit spots! With longer days, hot temps and wanderlust brewing, now is the time to bring much-hyped FYP (“For Your Page”) recommendations IRL (“In Real Life,” but you knew that one).There’s many different items on there such as “Cheese Pulls” at Bagel Boss to “The White Lotus Effect” at Gurney’s in Montauk to “Hot Girl Walks” at Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown, Orient County Park in Orient and Smith Point County Park in Shirley!Read more at nypost.com!NEW BLOG: Celebrate the 4th of July on Long IslandThis time next year will be America's 250th birthday, and a grand, nationwide celebration is planned! Keeping that energy going, nothing says “freedom” like fireworks, live music, and maybe even a reenactment of a historic drag invasion. Long Island is a northeast classic destination to celebrate Independence Day, with festivities from shoreline to vineyard and everywhere in between. Whether you're a beachgoer, history buff, or just here for the hotdogs, there’s a perfect way to celebrate America’s birthday across the Island.Read more at discoverlongisland.com/blog or download our mobile app!CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longislandteapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcastX(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/longislandteapodcast/ DM us on any of our social channels or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to tell us what you want to hear! Whether it is Long Island related or not, we are here to spill some tea with you! Shop Long Island Apparel!shop.discoverlongisland.com Check out our favorite products on Amazon!amazon.com/shop/discoverlongisland Be sure to leave us a 5-star rating and review wherever you’re listening, and screenshot your review for $5 off our Merch (Please email us to confirm) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 Juli 202544min