Podcast Summary: The Interview with Leslie Heaney – Exploring the Hudson Valley feat. Lighty Hoik

Episode Details:

• Title: Exploring the Hudson Valley - feat. Lighty Hoik
• Host: Leslie Heaney
• Guest: Lighty Hoik
• Release Date: July 11, 2025

1. Introduction and Guest Background

In this episode of The Interview with Leslie Heaney, Leslie welcomes Lighty Hoik, a multifaceted food writer and the author of the acclaimed cookbook Cooking in Real Life. Lighty is recognized for her engaging Instagram presence @lightylikes and her insightful Substack newsletter, lightyletter. Leslie expresses her enthusiasm for Lighty's diverse expertise, ranging from recipe development to exploring favorite Hudson Valley spots.

2. Cooking Philosophy and Recipe Writing

Timestamp [04:10] – Lighty Hoik:
"I really want to create recipes for people who have all different skill levels in the kitchen to feel comfortable making."

Lighty delves into her approach to cooking and recipe writing, emphasizing accessibility for home cooks of varying skill levels. She balances simplicity with creativity, striving to ensure that each recipe is both easy to follow and exciting to prepare. Her motto, “never boring,” reflects her commitment to transforming familiar dishes into delightful culinary experiences.

3. Transition to Independent Work

Timestamp [08:27] – Lighty Hoik:
"Turning something you love to do into your job is not easy, but it's so fulfilling."

Reflecting on her career trajectory, Lighty shares how her seven-year tenure working alongside Ina Garten sparked her passion for recipe development and food writing. Observing Ina’s meticulous recipe testing process taught Lighty the importance of clarity and reliability in recipe creation, ensuring that her own work meets the high standards necessary for home cooks to succeed.

4. Life in Hudson Valley

a. Moving from Brooklyn

Timestamp [12:04] – Lighty Hoik:
"I just wanted a nice kitchen. That's all I wanted. And I wanted some trees."

Lighty discusses her decision to relocate from Brooklyn to the Hudson Valley, motivated by a desire for a more serene environment conducive to her culinary pursuits. The move allowed her to establish a conducive workspace and enjoy the natural beauty of the region, which she finds inspiring for both her personal and professional life.

b. Exploring the Region

Timestamp [15:10] – Lighty Hoik:
"Having all these different pockets and it's kind of like endless places to explore."

The Hudson Valley's unique geographical position, bordering Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York, offers a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. Lighty highlights the region's diversity, noting the ease of access to nearby areas like the Berkshires and Litchfield County, each with its own distinct charm and attractions.

5. Accommodations and Staying in Hudson Valley

Timestamp [16:44] – Lighty Hoik:
"There is a shortage of hotels in this area and time for more hotels to open."

Lighty recommends several charming inns and hotels, such as the White Hart Inn in Salisbury, Connecticut, and Troutbeck in Amenia, New York. She also suggests exploring Airbnb options to fully immerse visitors in the local experience. The scarcity of large hotels underscores the region's preference for smaller, character-rich accommodations that align with the Hudson Valley’s rustic and welcoming atmosphere.

6. Farmers Markets and Grocery Shopping

Timestamp [19:38] – Lighty Hoik:
"Guidos is my place on the planet."

Highlighting her favorite farmers markets, Lighty praises the Copaic Hillsdale Farmers Market and the Rhinebeck Farmers Market for their vibrant vendor selections. She also mentions MX Morningstar in Hudson for its top-quality produce, meats, and dairy products. Lighty emphasizes the importance of local and specialty grocery stores like Guido's in the Berkshires for sourcing unique and high-quality ingredients.

7. Foraging and Cautionary Tales

Timestamp [21:37] – Lighty Hoik:
"You have to be. I don't feel so confident."

Lighty shares her foraging experiences, recounting both successes and mishaps. She advises novices to invest in field guides to ensure safe identification of wild edibles, recounting a cautionary tale where mistaken identification led to consuming harmful plants. Her stories underscore the adventurous yet careful approach required in foraging.

8. Dining: Favorite Restaurants and Recommendations

Timestamp [22:26] – Lighty Hoik:
"Stissing House in Pine Plains, New York is a great old tavern."

Lighty enthusiastically recommends several local eateries, including:

• Stissing House in Pine Plains, NY: An upscale tavern offering cozy atmospheres with multiple fireplaces.
• Pink House in West Cornwall, CT: Renowned for its riverside setting and delightful cuisine.
• Isabella in Amenia, NY: A new hotspot garnering rave reviews.
• The Lantern: A family-friendly wood-fired pizza place with a vibrant outdoor courtyard.
• Manor Rock Farm Restaurant and Cassia in Hudson, NY: Celebrated for their innovative menus and farm-to-table offerings.

She also highlights LF Fish and Game and A Feast in Floret for their unique culinary experiences, making Hudson a dynamic and ever-evolving dining destination.

9. Antiquing in Hudson Valley

Timestamp [29:06] – Lighty Hoik:
"Montage Antiques in Millerton is my top favorite."

Antiquing is a passion for Lighty, who shares her top spots:

• Montage Antiques in Millerton, NY: Known for its rustic, farmhouse-style pieces sourced from Europe.
• Hudson Antique Warehouse: A vast space offering a wide range of antiques, ideal for browsing on rainy days.
• Finch Antiques and Red Chair on Warren in Hudson, NY: Favored by interior designers for their high-end selections.

Lighty plans to create a comprehensive guide to these antique destinations, reflecting the region’s rich history and diverse offerings.

10. Summer Activities and Events

a. Outdoor Adventures

Timestamp [33:22] – Lighty Hoik:
"Racebrook Falls hike is beautiful."

Lighty recommends various outdoor activities to enjoy during the summer, including:

• Racebrook Falls Hike and Alander Mountain: Perfect for nature walks and scenic views.
• Sharon Audubon Society Trails: Ideal for leisurely strolls amid well-maintained trails.
• Rail Trail: A 50-mile converted railroad track now serving as a serene running and biking path, ideal for picnics and casual rides.

b. Events and Concerts

Timestamp [37:10] – Lighty Hoik:
"We love going to Tanglewood for concerts."

Highlighting summer events, Lighty mentions:

• Tanglewood in Lenox, MA: Home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra's summer concerts, featuring artists like James Taylor and Bonnie Raitt.
• Polo Matches at Mohomick: A unique sporting event offering a blend of tradition and excitement.
• Hudson Fairy Company Cruises: Offering sunset cruises with stunning views and a novel way to experience the Hudson River.

11. Lighty's Projects and Future Plans

Timestamp [40:20] – Lighty Hoik:
"I started a substack newsletter this spring to write more in-depth."

Lighty shares her ongoing projects, including:

• Substack Newsletter: lightyletter, providing comprehensive insights and stories beyond her social media presence.
• Video Series: Monthly adventures around the Hudson Valley, blending cooking, travel, and lifestyle content. Recent episodes include trips to Brimfield’s antique markets.
• Professional Endeavors: Contributing recipes to New York Times Cooking and America’s Test Kitchen, expanding her influence in the culinary world.

Lighty expresses excitement for future collaborations and projects, including potential guides for the Hudson Valley and seasonal content for fall and winter.

Conclusion

Leslie Heaney’s interview with Lighty Hoik offers a vivid exploration of the Hudson Valley through the lens of a passionate food writer and local enthusiast. From cooking philosophies and culinary adventures to antiquing and vibrant local events, Lighty provides listeners with a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of this picturesque region. Her authentic storytelling and expert recommendations make the episode both informative and inspiring for anyone interested in the Hudson Valley’s rich cultural and culinary landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Lighty Hoik [04:10]: "I really want to create recipes for people who have all different skill levels in the kitchen to feel comfortable making."
• Lighty Hoik [08:27]: "Turning something you love to do into your job is not easy, but it's so fulfilling."
• Lighty Hoik [12:04]: "I just wanted a nice kitchen. That's all I wanted. And I wanted some trees."
• Lighty Hoik [16:44]: "There is a shortage of hotels in this area and time for more hotels to open."
• Lighty Hoik [19:38]: "Guidos is my place on the planet."
• Lighty Hoik [29:06]: "Montage Antiques in Millerton is my top favorite."

Listeners are encouraged to follow Lighty Hoik on her Instagram @lightylikes and subscribe to her Substack lightyletter for more in-depth content and updates on her latest projects.