Mike and Keith discuss the kickoff of the ski season with Thanksgiving approaching. They explore the importance of local 'feeder' ski areas around Boston, such as Ski Ward, Blue Hills, and others. The podcast features an in-depth interview with Geoff Homer, the new operator of Blue Hills, and Molly Gilleece, the general manager. They discuss the significant upgrades being made to Blue Hills, including doubled snowmaking capacity and all-new energy-efficient snow guns. Geoff shares insights from his previous experience at Shawnee Peak, while Molly talks about the youth programs and the importance of local ski areas in fostering a lifelong passion for the sport. The episode highlights the revitalization efforts at Blue Hills and the critical role these smaller urban ski areas play in the broader ski industry.

Topics

00:21 Thanksgiving and the Start of Ski Season

03:13 Local Feeder Ski Areas Around Boston

04:56 Challenges and Importance of Feeder Hills

09:33 Interview with Blue Hills' New Operators

21:19 Industry Insights and Climate Challenges

22:53 Snowmaking Upgrades and Water Supply

24:57 Memorable Moments and Staff Loyalty

29:23 Importance of Blue Hills in Skiing

32:44 Community Programs and Partnerships

33:54 Future Plans and Exciting Announcements

35:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mike and Keith dive into the excitement of the coming ski season with discussions on early snowfall, mountain energy, and resort activities. They welcome Brian and Tyler Fairbank from the Fairbank Group, owners of Jiminy Peak, Bromley Mountain, and Cranmore Mountain. The Fairbanks discuss the unique features and family-oriented experiences offered by their resorts, their environmental initiatives such as wind and solar power, and the future of the independent ski industry. They also highlight the importance of growing the ski industry through initiatives like Kids Rule programs and maintaining high-quality facilities and guest experiences.

Topics

00:27 Hosts' Excitement for the Ski Season

00:56 Energy and Activities at the Resorts

03:35 Upcoming Ski Events and Shows

03:56 Spotlight on the Berkshires

07:07 Interview with the Fairbank Group

08:23 Skiing Culture and Family Business

15:08 Sustainability Efforts at Jiminy Peak

22:12 Marketing Strategies for the Resorts

24:18 Skiing Experience at Jiminy Peak

26:00 Snowmaking and Family Focus

26:24 Kids Rule Program

28:26 Northeast Skiing Experience

29:37 Enhancing Lives Through Skiing

30:46 Bromley Mountain's Unique Charm

33:05 Cranmore Mountain Developments

36:32 Year-Round Operations and Future Growth

39:19 Industry Recognition and Future Outlook

44:20 Podcast Wrap-Up and Reflections

Mike and Keith record live from the Country Ski and Sport Expo in Hanover MA. They catch up with various ski resort representatives to discuss the upcoming ski season, highlighting special events, new developments, and exclusive deals available at the expo. Guests include Jay Stenson from Country Ski & Sport; and representatives from Saddleback, Maine; Smuggler's Notch, Sugarbush; Gunstock Mountain Resort; Waterville Valley; Loon Mountain; and Cannon Mountain, each sharing their unique updates and promotions. The episode is filled with enthusiasm for the winter season and invaluable information for ski enthusiasts gearing up for their favorite sport.

The Expo:

Veterans Day Weekend, November 7-10, 2024

Thursday, November 7th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Friday, November 8th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Saturday, November 9th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday, November 10th: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

389 Columbia Rd. (Route 53) Hanover, MA 02339

https://www.countryski.com/

Topics

00:41 Interview with Jay Stenson from Country Ski and Sport

06:23 Saddleback, Maine: A Rising Star in the East

11:46 Smuggler's Notch: The Family Mountain

16:40 Sugarbush: Exciting Upgrades and Community Engagement

19:53 Snowfall at Sugarbush

20:42 Exclusive Deals at Sugarbush

22:02 Gunstock Mountain Resort Updates

25:41 Waterville Valley Highlights

29:34 Loon Mountain Excitement

32:35 Cannon Mountain's Big Plans

37:30 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts