Long Island Tea

Latest Episodes:

The Storm Before The Calm Sep 16, 2025

Show notes

This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy are spilling all the tea—from Sharon’s weekend getaway in Fire Island to Stacy’s unforgettable night at the VMAs! Plus, we’re celebrating National Guacamole and Cheeseburger Days with the best local spots, spotlighting filmmaker Doug Gallo and his award-winning doc WEST LANDING, and sharing exciting updates like Adventureland’s record-breaking charity night, LI siblings chasing Olympic dreams, and how to plan for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. Don’t miss the #ThisWeekendOnLongIsland lineup, ChariTEA news from the Pink Promises Luncheon, and a CelebriTEA alert: Cardi B is coming to West Babylon!

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

This week, we’re spotlighting Doug Gallo, a Hampton Bays-based director debuting his short documentary WEST LANDING, which captures the deep bond among senior open-water swimmers in his hometown. The film has already screened at the Long Island International Film Expo, Chain NYC Film Festival, and internationally at events like Garda Cinema in Italy, with more stops ahead this fall, including the Offshore Art & Film Festival in Montauk. Know someone doing something amazing? DM us or email spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com to share YOUR Long Islander!

#LongIslandLife

National Guacamole Day – September 16

Celebrate at top spots like Verde Kitchen and Cocktails (Bay Shore), Besito (West Islip & Huntington), and Ruta Oaxaca (Patchogue).

National Cheeseburger Day – September 18

Grab a bite at The Halston (Melville), Mirabelle Tavern (Stony Brook), Tellers (Islip), The James (Babylon), or The Local (Babylon).

Adventureland Raises $400K for Charity

Adventureland’s VIP Night in Farmingdale broke records with over 2,000 guests raising $400K for the Helping Hands Foundation.

LI Sibling Skaters Eye 2026 Olympics

Oona and Gage Brown, World Junior Champions from Long Island, are training hard to represent Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

LI Aquarium Offers $25 Days + Fall Fun

Enjoy $25 admission on Sept 25, Oct 25, and Nov 25, plus seasonal events like a Halloween Party, Fish & Sips, Santa Brunch, and more.

Ryder Cup 2025 Guide Now Live

Heading to Bethpage Black? Discover Long Island’s all-inclusive Ryder Cup guide covers travel tips, local attractions, shuttle info, and more. Check it out at discoverlongisland.com/ryder-cup

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, Sept 19: Babylon Pumpkin Fest at Cedar Beach – live music, vendors, and fall fun.

Saturday, Sept 20: LI Cares 5K & Paws Walk at Belmont Lake State Park – family-friendly run with pets, raffles, and breakfast.

Sept 20–21: Outdoor Art Show & Music Fest at Gallery North – 60+ artists, music, and food.

Sunday, Sept 21: Cow Harbor Day in Northport – parade, vendors, boat races, and more.

#ChariTEA

The Pink Promises Luncheon is Sept 16 at Crest Hollow, benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Luxury auction goes live Sept 15 at pinkpromises.org

#CelebriTEA

Cardi B is coming to Looney Tunes in West Babylon on Sept 19 at 1 p.m. for a CD promo event. Photo op only with wristband from in-store purchase. Doors open at 11 a.m.

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“We’re a good kind of a lot” Sep 09, 2025

Show notes

This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy are recapping another busy week repping Discover Long Island and dropping some exciting updates — including record-breaking tourism numbers that prove Long Island is shining brighter than ever.

We’re celebrating three years of growth, nearly $8 billion in visitor spending in 2024, and a massive economic boost that’s helping keep our region thriving year-round.

This week’s Show Us Your Long Islander spotlight shines on Jack Kennedy, a 17-year-old tennis phenom from Huntington who’s now the #1 junior player in the U.S. and competing in the U.S. Open Juniors — just miles from where he first picked up a racquet.

Plus — big wins for Fire Island’s shoreline, Suffolk’s working waterfronts, a new raw bar for LIRR riders, and yes… an actual gator in a Long Island pond. (Only on Long Island, right?)

Don’t miss this episode — it’s full of pride, power moves, and positivity for our region.

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

At just 17, Jack Kennedy from Huntington is the #1 U.S. junior tennis player — and he's now competing in the U.S. Open Juniors, just miles from the Melville courts where he grew up playing.

"I've been watching this tournament since I was five. Playing here now feels like a dream come true," says Jack, who’s also the top college recruit in the nation and has committed to the University of Virginia for 2026.

With big goals to go pro and a love for the game that started right here on Long Island, Jack’s journey is one to watch.

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

We’re celebrating three straight years of record-breaking tourism on Long Island — and we’re just getting started. In 2024 alone, visitors spent an incredible $7.9 billion across our region, a 3.8% jump from last year, generating $945 million in state and local taxes and supporting over 78,000 local jobs. At Discover Long Island, we’re proud to lead the charge in putting our destination on the map with smart, data-driven marketing and unforgettable experiences. From world-class events like the upcoming 2025 Ryder Cup to year-round promotions that support our downtowns and small businesses, we’re making sure Long Island shines in every season. Suffolk County saw the biggest gains, with a 7% increase in visitor spending — and thanks to tourism, local households saved nearly $1,000 in taxes. We’re proud to keep Long Island front and center as one of the top travel spots in the country. Let’s keep the momentum going!

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, September 12th

Energy Medicine with Nicholas Pratley at Shou Sugi Ban House

Saturday, September 13th

Deco in Style: 100 Years at Long Island Museum

Patty Larkin & Lucy Kalansky Songbird Sessions at Long Island Game Farm

Sunday, September 14th

Long Island Explorium’s Maker Faire

Arts on Terry (AOT) 2025

For more events to check out and detailed info please visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app!

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Schooling You On These Looks Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

This week on Long Island Tea, we're spotlighting a true hometown hero for our #ShowUsYourLongIslander series. We’re diving into all things back-to-school, from free backpacks at the Suffolk County Sheriff’s giveaway to the upcoming Brookhaven Town Libraries EXPO and Maker Faire Long Island at Stony Brook University! Plus, a lucky East Northport resident just scratched their way to $1 million, and we’re sipping on the latest #CelebriTEA — yes, Taylor and Travis are officially engaged! You won’t want to miss this jam-packed episode of inspiration, events, and a whole lot of Long Island love

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

This week, we’re proud to highlight a true hometown hero. Frank, a proud Marine Corps veteran and dedicated veterinarian, was presented with a life-changing gift — a service dog named Jazzy. Frank’s story is one of resilience and selfless service. A Patchogue native, he not only served in the military but also provided critical care to victims and first responders at Ground Zero in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks — an event that deeply impacted countless Long Islanders.

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

Back to School Season on Long Island!

We're giving a quick shoutout to a super helpful Back-to-School Guide from LongIslandSchools.com — perfect for any parent or student gearing up for the new school year!

Ryder Cup Live Watch Party Kits

Bring the energy of golf’s biggest stage straight to your screen with the Ryder Cup Live Watch Party Kits—curated fan packs designed to transform any space into the ultimate viewing experience.

NEW BLOG: Long Island Towns: Riverhead

Speaking of our amazing community here on Long Island, Riverhead, celebrated as the “Gateway to the Forks,” is a vibrant blend of agricultural heritage, historic charm, and modern-day attractions. Named one of Forbes’ Top 50 Travel Destinations in 2023, Riverhead is home to picturesque farmlands, the entrance to Long Island Wine Country, and walkable streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century architecture and landmarks. (Read full blog at www.discoverlongisland.com/blog)

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, September 5th

DJ Pauly D at The Paramount (Huntington)

StevieMac at The Suffolk Theater (Riverhead)

Jazz Fridays at Sannino Vineyard (Cutchogue)

Saturday, September 6th

Chronicle Wine Cruise (Greenport)

Community Haul Seine at Mashomack Preserve (Shelter Island)

Culper Spy Day at Sherwood-Jayne Farm (Setauket)

For more events to check out and detailed info please visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app!

#ChariTEA

On September 17, 2025, the Sixteenth Annual Pink Promises Luncheon will take place at Crest Hollow Country Club, benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) — the highest-rated breast cancer research organization in the country and the largest private funder of breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer research worldwide.

To learn more about BCRF or get involved, visit www.bcrf.org

#CelebriTEA

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Announce Engagement in Viral Social Media Post

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Downtowns, Pizza and Billy Joel Aug 26, 2025

Show notes

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: Northport

Northport, 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/blog

Long 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-21st

For more information visit playbill.com - which show is on your bucket list this year??

CONNECT WITH US:

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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.

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#Blessed and BUSY Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

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.

#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.

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

#LongIslandLife

Golfers sleeping in cars so they can play a Long Island course ahead of Ryder Cup?!

NEW BLOG: Long Island Downtowns – Patchogue

Once 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

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, August 22

Bop to the Top at The Paramount, Huntington

Anything Goes – CM Performing Arts Center, Oakdale

Dinosaur Adventure – White Post Farms, Melville

Saturday, August 23

Disney Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour – UBS Arena

Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot – Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center

Sunday, August 24

Hampton Classic Horse Show – Opening Day

For more events and details, visit discoverlongisland.com or download the Discover Long Island mobile app.

#CelebriTEA

Metallica to Play Intimate Show at Amagansett's Stephen Talkhouse

Freakier Friday Now in Theaters – Starring Jamie Lee Curtis & Long Island’s Own Lindsay Lohan

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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

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amazon.com/shop/discoverlongisland

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"The studio is giving us life!" Aug 12, 2025

Show notes

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!

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

Today’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: Huntington

Located 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/blog

Long Island native, 112, sets Guinness Record as World’s Oldest Living Nun

A 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 Splash

Saturday, 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 Fame

Michael J. Fox to appear at Southampton movie event celebrating 'Back to the Future'

CONNECT WITH US:

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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!

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“We’re not prima donnas we promise!” Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

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!

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

Today’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 Day

Must‑Read Releases Set on Long Island

Listen for our favorites!

Add these Long Island Roadside attractions to your Summer Bucket List!

Fire Island Lighthouse

Smithtown Bull

The Big Duck

Aviation Artifacts at Grumman Memorial Park

Mechanical Wing Flapping Eagle at Stony Brook Post Office

Obelisk at Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Montauk Point Lighthouse

The Star Gazer

Did 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 8th

Rocket Man - A Tribute to Elton John at The Paramount (Huntington)

Happy Hour at Blackstone, One10, & more!

Phantom at The Gateway in Bellport

Whale Watching on the Viking Star in Montauk

Saturday, August 9th

Adam Ezra Group at Long Island Game Farm Songbird Sessions Concert

Joseph Lloyd Manor Tours with Preservation Long Island

Live Music at Lily’s Seaside at Silly Lily Fishing Station (Center Moriches)

Weekend Brunch in The SHED Restaurants (All locations)

Sunday, August 10th

Madagascar - 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:

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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)

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Shoutout to Getting Old! Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

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

#LongIslandLife

Long Island’s wall lizard population is booming, and spreading east

For 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 Spots

Don’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

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, 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 Riverhead

Saturday, 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/@DiscoverLongIslandNY

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@longislandteapodcast

X(Twitter): https://x.com/liteapodcast

Facebook: 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.

Don’t Sleep On This Kid-Approved Itinerary! Jul 22, 2025

Show notes

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!

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

#LongIslandLife

This 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 Trail

Families 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 acts

Concert 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 Hubbard

September 13 – Patty Larkin & Lucy Kaplansky

Every 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.

#ChariTEA

Huntington 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/

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CineMagic at Stony Brook Film Festival (LIVE On-Site at the Staller Center) Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

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 Pass

View the full schedule and ticket options at stonybrookfilmfestival.com

🎞 Some of This Year’s Highlights:

Westhampton starring RJ Mitte & Finn Wittrock

Midas Man – A new take on the Beatles legacy

Ali Eats America, La Gloria, Mazel Tov, and more!

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

Each 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

#LongIslandLife

ICYMI: Fourth of July & Ducks Game Vibes

We 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 Island

We’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

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Friday, July 11th

Kidz Bop at Jones Beach Theater (shoutout for the love on socials!)

Saturday, July 12th

Songbird Sessions: Heart & Soul at Long Island Game Farm

Neon 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/@DiscoverLongIslandNY