Mountain Maryland Mamas

30. It's Not Goodbye, but See Ya Later

HAPPY 30th Episode! Well, if you count all of our bonus episodes, it's 38 episodes total. We started this little side project in October of 2021 to share the spirit of Deep Creek and Garrett County, MD and our love for this far western Maryland area that we call "home." We sat on living room couches and interviewed friends. We talked about local events, the four seasons, hunting, kids, farming, slowing down, and we even recorded ourselves indulging in microgreens! Along with all the fun...

29. Embracing the Transition to Fall!

HAPPY (almost) FALL from the (far western) mountains of Maryland! We're continuing with our four new seasonal episodes for the year and now it's time for another chat about fall... Ironically in this fall episode though, we talk a lot about summer, ha! But what we realized in our preparation and effort to share about fall, reflecting on summer was incredibly appropriate...and needed! We all know that fall is full of colorful leaves (especially here in our mountains), cozy-ing up with frie...

28. Kickoff to Summer with the Grantsville Guy

HAPPY SUMMER from the (far western) mountains of Maryland! We're continuing with our four new seasonal episodes for the year and now it's time for summer! For many, summer in Deep Creek + Garrett County, MD presents some of the most perfect weather - not too hot, not too cold. But it's also a hustling, bustling time - many more visitors around, everything is open and the weather makes it pretty easy to get outside and enjoy everything our mountains + lake have to offer. So of course it wa...

27. Tips for Spring! Food Features in Garrett County and Regional Events!

We're back! Okay, we were back last week. BUT now we're back to what we originally planned for 2023: four new episodes, one for each of the four seasons. First up, SPRING! Spring in our mountains can be tough. We continue to experience winter weather and everything's just a little quiet - less visitors around, some things are closed and the weather makes it hard to be outside. But surprisingly, we rattled off ALL KINDS of spring things during this conversation! From "getting out of Garre...

26. Poodles & Plants: An Interview with Mike Fratz

When Maureen describes this episode she uses the word JOY. When Jessica describes this episode she uses SURPRISE. It was a joy to record and a joy to edit. It was a surprise that we talked for over an hour (or maybe that was no surprise, ha!) and that we only briefly touched upon the three topics that we thought would be the focus. Mike was born and raised in Garrett County. School and jobs took him to Pittsburgh, Washington DC and most recently New York City. COVID brought him back home a...

25. Do the Jitterbug! Interview with Kendall Ludwig of Curly Red Design & Jitterbug Movement Studio

Time to introduce you to our friend, Kendall! She’s a mama, she’s got curly red hair, she loves Deep Creek + Garrett County like we do, AND she just started a new business!  During our chat with Kendall, we hear why she and husband Mark did a 180 and moved from Baltimore to Garrett County, what it’s been like growing her 15-year old graphic design business in the mountains and why they now own a dance studio! We get into the idea of “crafting a life” around what we’ve got here in Garrett Co...

24. Interview with Heather Hanline from the Dove Center

We haven't had an interview since June, so it's time for another one! It's also time to shine a light on a community resource and its leader, the Dove Center and Heather Hanline. Located in Oakland, MD the Dove Center provides safety, advocacy, and counseling to individuals whose lives have been shattered by domestic violence and/or sexual assault, and strives to expand public awareness of those issues. Heather is the director of the Dove Center and shared a ton of details on what she and ...

23. Happy Birthday MMM: The Mamas Interview Each Other As The Podcast Turns One!

WOW! The podcast is one year old! Happy Birthday MMM! This time last year we were tucked back in a cabin in the woods, recording our first episodes and making release plans. 12 months later and we've had over 5,000 episode downloads, conducted dozens of interviews, shared the magic of this place we call "home", and are ready for year two. In this episode, we celebrate the MMM birthday by interviewing each other in a  casual, candid conversation...educational journeys, why we love Deep Cree...

22. Flower Power: A Tasting Experience with Meadow Mountain Microgreens

WOW! What a treat! That perfectly sums up our experience with Meadow Mountain Microgreens. And for you, our listeners? This will be something very different than we've done for all of our other episodes, but we hope it'll be a treat for you, too. Here's the scene: Maureen's dining room, we had just finished taco salads, various drinks on the table, and Darryl and Haeli (of Meadow Mountain Microgreens) tickled and tantalized our tastebuds with a lineup of their incredibly unique mircorgreen ...

21. Come Get Married Here: Unique Wedding Experiences at Deep Creek

The wedding scene at Deep Creek is hoppin', friends! And we should know! Jessica is a local wedding photographer and it's because of their bride-photographer relationship that Maureen and Jessica met in 2016. Couples are coming here for their destination weddings because they don't need to get on a plane to do it and because we have everything they need to make a wedding happen. Not to mention the beautiful, natural backdrops we have ready and waiting for ceremonies, celebrations and advent...

20. The Mamas Chat Burnout, Boundaries, and Celebrating Slowing Down

Friends, we're officially on summer break...and we're inviting you to join us. July, August and September will each have only one episode each, and while we miss sharing more content and conversations, this break was, and still is, much needed.  Read more on our blog Here! For this month's episode it’s just us, the Mamas. We're chatting about something that's been on our mind a lot lately…mainly burn out (recovering from it), as well as “Toxic Productivity” (avoiding burn out altogether). ...

19. Summer in Garrett County with Fellow Mama Rachel Bruch

In today's episode we're joined by one of our good friends, Rachel Bruch! We talk all about summer in Garrett County + Deep Creek Lake. And yes, it's just as magical as all the other seasons we've mentioned so far :) Rachel was born and raised here in our Garrett County mountains. She's a mama to three kiddos and she loves this place as much as we do! Rachel is also very well practiced in adventuring so we knew she'd make a great third wheel for this summertime conversation... Throughout t...

18: Caring for Animals, the Earth, and Ourselves: Regenerative Agriculture with Julie Friend from Wildom Farm

It's time for the final installment of our interview series with the founding female farmers of the Deep Creek Farmers Market! Our very own Maureen Sheaffer is one of five founding members of the Deep Creek Farmers Market that just started on May 27th, so we've put together a series of interviews to celebrate this new community project! All five founding members are leading ladies here in Garrett County, MD and four of them are local farmers and producers. We've talked with three of the far...

17. Hemp Yea! An Interview with Haeli Gustafson from Meadow Mountain Hemp

Our interview series with the founding female farmers of the Deep Creek Farmers Market continues! Our very own Maureen Sheaffer is one of five founding members of the Deep Creek Farmers Market that just started on May 27th, so we've put together a series of interviews to celebrate this new community project! All five founding members are leading ladies here in Garrett County, MD and four of them are local farmers and producers. Continuing through mid-June, we're talking with the four farmer...

[BONUS] 34th Garrett County Celtic Festival Happening June 4th!

It's BONUS episode time! And friends, this is a good one! It's a unique one! Very different from what we've been doing... When we set out on this podcasting journey in the Fall of 2021, we wanted to "show off" our home, Garrett County, MD...We wanted to highlight what makes our mountains and our lake and the people here so special! One of the things our area does so well is cultivate creative, hardworking folks who come together and make things happen. And those who put together the beloved...

16. Bringing Folks Into The Fold of How Their Food Is Produced: An Interview with Allison Boyd

Our interview series with the founding female farmers of the Deep Creek Farmers Market continues! Our very own Maureen Sheaffer is one of five founding members of the Deep Creek Farmers Market that starts on May 27th, so we've put together a series of interviews to celebrate this new community project! All five founding members are leading ladies here in Garrett County, MD and four of them are local farmers and producers. Continuing through mid-June, we're talking with the four farmers (we ...

15. From Nurse Practitioner to Friendsville Farmer: An Interview with Alea McClintock-Donahue

Here we go...the month of May! It's a big one for MMM! We're going places! Both in conversation and in location... Our very own Maureen Sheaffer is one of five founding members of the brand spankin' new Deep Creek Farmers Market that starts on May 27th, so we've put together a series of interviews to celebrate this new community project! All five founding members are leading ladies here in Garrett County, MD and four of them are local farmers and producers. So this month, we're talking with...

14. From Classroom to Community: Mom + Daughter Duo Open New Learning Center in Mountain Maryland

In this episode, we interview local educators and business owners, Katelyn and Suzan O'Brien, who are bringing something new and different to our area. This mom-daughter team recently opened Sylvan Learning of Garrett County in 2021 after years of teaching in the classroom and after conversations sparked during the early days of COVID. Their center can be described as "a supplemental resource to a child's education" where reading, math and writing are at the core. They also offer SAT prep, h...

13. Spring in Garrett County and it's Taking its Time

It’s coming, we promise! Spring is such a varied time in the Deep Creek Lake area.  We usually have a week of decent 50 or 60 degree weather, followed by a snow storm, followed by a month of rain...AKA Mud Season. We’re embracing all of it in this episode, and maybe whining just a tiny bit. As we chatted about foods to go along with March Madness, Maureen mentioned one of her favorite side salads, this Herbed Quinoa and Pomegranate dish from Cookie and Kate. It's well-loved in the Sheaffer ...

[BONUS] Early Spring Preview from For the Love of Deep Creek

Every Thursday morning at 9am you can catch Jessica on Instagram on her For the Love of Deep Creek page, and sometimes, occasionally, mostly every week...kind of, we like to turn that into a little bonus episode for y'all. Here is an early Spring preview for all of our resident, and tourist, friends out there! Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info! For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here, and ...

12. "Garrett County is a Gem in Our State!" Interview with Laura Neuman, Maryland Candidate for Governor

*Advice to our listeners, this episode does include mention of rape and sexual assault, around minute 6:15, which may be triggering for some listeners. We were so honored to have the chance to interview Maryland Democratic Candidate for Governor, Laura Neuman. From Laura's Campaign Website: "Laura is running for governor because she believes every Marylander should have access to opportunity, regardless of where their story starts. Laura knows what it’s like when someone else tries to wri...

[BONUS] March Snow!

Surprise surprise it snowed in March in the Tundra of Maryland! Thanks to Kendall Ludwig for sending in this voice memo, helping us all with new ideas for enjoying fresh snow!

[BONUS] March 11, 2022 Weekend Happenings

Audio from Jessica's Instagram Live on For the Love of Deep Creek!  Tune in for the latest information for whats going on at Deep Creek Lake this weekend! Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info! For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here, and sign up for our newsletter! Follow us on Instagram @mtnmarylandmamas Or Facebook! Mountain Maryland Mamas As always, thank you so much for being here to sha...

11. Combating those Winter Blues

Living in the Tundra of Maryland definitely has its challenges, and one of the biggest is finding ways to combat those pesky winter blues. We’re blessed with the Summer beauty of Deep Creek Lake, the majestic Fall foliage, and the Winter flakes that cover Mountain Maryland, but while we wait for the first signs of Spring, we have to face the March/April shoulder season, otherwise known as mud season.  Throughout this weeks episode we chat about our own different strategies, and hopefully so...

10. Riding, Running and Racing with Deep Creek Adventure Bureau's Sarah Myers

Today Maureen and Jessica interview friend, entrepreneur, and fellow lover of Deep Creek Sarah Myers. Sarah is born and raised in Garrett County MD, loves the outdoors and has a yearning to get people together. Roll all that into one and she's the perfect person for Deep Creek Adventure Bureau, our area's newest and coolest outdoor adventure organization. Mountains, lakes, parks, trails...we have it all here in far western Maryland and Sarah is off and running (and riding!) with Deep Creek...

[Bonus] President's Day Weekend Roundup

A weekly roundup for your President's Day Weekend at Deep Creek Lake Bonus content coming to you from Jessica’s latest project with For the Love of Deep Creek! She put some great tips together for this upcoming President's Day weekend. ENJOY! Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info! For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here, and sign up for our newsletter! Follow us on Instagram @mtnmarylandma...

[Bonus] President's Day Weekend Roundup

A weekly roundup for your President's Day Weekend at Deep Creek Lake Bonus content coming to you from Jessica’s latest project with For the Love of Deep Creek! She put some great tips together for this upcoming President's Day weekend. ENJOY! Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info! For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here, and sign up for our newsletter! Follow us on Instagram @mtnmarylandma...

[BONUS] Valentine’s Day Weekend at Deep Creek Lake

Bonus content coming to you from Jessica’s latest project with For the Love of Deep Creek! She put some great tips together for this upcoming Valentine’s Day weekend and some awesome ideas of things to do for a date night or fun with the family.  ENJOY!  Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info!

[BONUS] Valentine’s Day Weekend at Deep Creek Lake

Bonus content coming to you from Jessica’s latest project with For the Love of Deep Creek! She put some great tips together for this upcoming Valentine’s Day weekend and some awesome ideas of things to do for a date night or fun with the family.  ENJOY!  Follow @fortheloveofdeepcreek on Instagram for continued tips and timely Deep Creek info!

9. Buck Fever: An Interview with Local Hunters Ryan Savage and Jill Rawe

Maureen and Jessica are joined by two local hunters, Ryan Savage and Jill Rawe. They discuss everything from accessible hunting to their favorite things to cook. Hunting is a huge tradition in Garrett County, and, as Jill describes in the episode, its a lifestyle. As non-hunters the Mountain Maryland Mamas were interested in gaining a perspective into the sport, culture and lifestyle of hunting. We only scratch the surface in this interview, but we hope you'll enjoy it and we look forward ...

8. Embracing the Tundra of Maryland

Jessica and Maureen are here to tell you that the best way to survive winter in the tundra of Maryland is to embrace it! Our tips and tricks for staying warm, being prepared, and keeping everyone busy. LINKS! Patagonia Worn Wear Program State Parks/Activities Herrington Manor State Park New Germany State Park Maureen found this link to Tips for winterizing your car. Not sponsored just super helpful! For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here,...

7. Winter Refresh with Haley Gillespie

We're back for Season 2 and this time we've brought more friends! Maureen and Jessica chat with Haley Gillespie, local nutrition and wellness expert. Haley and her mom, Kam, run Haley Farm Inn and Retreat Center in Oakland, MD near Deep Creek Lake.  In this Episode: Haley Farm Retreat Center Refresh Deep Creek ReFresh Holistic Health & Fitness Retreats Haley's Instagram @refreshwithHaley For more information about us, the Mountain Maryland Mamas, check out our website here, and sign up f...

[BONUS] Opening Day at Wisp Resort!

Our favorite kind of bonus content!  Wisp Resort is open for the 2021-2022 Winter Season! Maureen and Jessica share lots of insider tips and equipment advice to help get you through ski and snowboard season at Maryland's only ski resort. Episode Links: Wisp Resort Season Pass/Buddy Passes Dine & Shop Tuning Center High Mountain Sports Our Website: www.mountainmarylandmamas.com Send the Mamas an Email: [email protected] Instagram: @mtnmarylandmamas We launched our podc...

6. Holiday Magic in Deep Creek

Jessica and Maureen chat about the holidays in Deep Creek, and they are joined by many other voices in this episode. Thanksgiving has come and gone, and it's time to celebrate all of the MAGICAL December festivities in Garrett County.  Coming up this weekend, December 3rd & 4th Spruce Forest Christmas in Village Cornucopia Cafe  Oakland Christmas Tree Lighting Christmas Trees & Decor Woodlake Tree Farm Winter Farmers Market: Frostburg Ruth Enlow Library Holiday Events Our Website: ww...

[BONUS] Thanksgiving with the Crawfords

Happy Thanksgiving! Bonus Content coming to you from the Mama's conversation with Terah Crawford.  This content was too good not to share, so enjoy this bonus Thanksgiving episode. Be Safe Everyone! Enjoy your families, and we'll be back next Tuesday with our 6th episode for the season! Find us on Instagram @mtnmarylandmamas Jessica: @jessicafike @fortheloveofdeepcreek Maureen: @tapasandsunshine Our website is live! Mountain Maryland Mamas

5. Career, Covid, and Kids with Terah Crawford

Maureen and Jessica are joined by Terah Crawford. She is a local real estate agent near Deep Creek Lake, Mom of 2, and musician.  They discuss everything from virtual school, cutting back on playing live music, and career changes and advances in an unprecedented time.  Terah Crawford Real Estate Professional Terah Crawford Band (Including their upcoming Shows) Also mentioned in the Episode: Sipside Lounge in Oakland, MD Send the Mamas an Email: [email protected] Instagram:...

4. Let's Eat More Local Food!

A conversation about local and seasonal food. Maureen and Jessica chat about what local food means to them, ways to access local food all year round, and questions to ask your farmer and favorite restaurants! Send us an email: [email protected] IG: @mtnmarylandmamas So much great info here so check out all of these links below! Tons of info on Garrett County Farms: https://www.garrettfarms.org/ Winter Farmers Markets: Mountain Fresh Farmers Markets Allegany County Farmers ...

3. Hiking in Garrett County

Maureen and Jessica chat about hiking in Garrett County. We discuss our favorite spots, and a couple of friends chime in to share some of their favorite locales.  Maureen's husband Tom also joins for a bit to share some tips for day hikers.   Links to places mentioned in this episode: Swallow Falls State Park Deep Creek Lake State Park Casselman River Bridge State Park  Herrington Manor State Park Kendall Trail Cranesville Swamp Garrett Trails: https://www.garretttrails.org/ Hiking T...

2. Fall in Garrett County

Jessica and Maureen chat about all things fall. From Autumn Glory events to small town Trick or Treating, we reflect on our favorite things about living in Garrett County in Autumn.   Send us a voice memo!  Tell us about your favorite fall outdoor activities around Deep Creek Lake and we might include your memo in our next episode.  Email: [email protected]

1. Meet the Mamas

Jessica and Maureen share their stories of how they came to Garrett County and fell in love with Deep Creek Lake.   Send us an email!  [email protected]

Trailer: Mountain Maryland Mamas