The Gunks Cast

#110 Juergen Beneke - Professional Cyclist - Catskills Nomad

Juergen Beneke was born in Germany and was a professional road cyclist in Europe before switching to mountain biking. In 1995, he moved to the U.S., living in the Bronx, where weekend cycling trips led him up to the Gunks—riding iconic loops in Mohonk and Minnewaska. He went on to become a World Cup winner and X Games gold medalist. After living out West, he returned to New Paltz, making the Gunks his home for 26 years. Now, drawing on his experience and construction knowledge, he helps others find active-lifestyle homes in the area. Learn more at CatskillsNomad.com .

#109 Heather Lynn Barton - Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Heather Barton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, parent and child therapist, and New Paltz High School alum with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. Known for her grounded, relational approach, she helps build emotional awareness, connection, and resilience. In addition to her clinical work, Heather is a life coach and Reiki Master Teacher, offering spaces for both practical growth and deeper self-reflection. Deeply rooted in her community, she can often be found at the Gardiner Collective or cheering on the sidelines as a proud swim mom.

#108 Fourth Fridays at Water Street Market!

Recorded live at Fourth Fridays in New Paltz, this podcast brings real conversations to the heart of a community block party. Hosted at Water Street Market during the town’s monthly Fourth Friday celebrations (April through October), this episode captures the spirit of the evening—local voices, shared stories, and the energy of music, food, and connection.  The podcast invites listeners into a relaxed, welcoming space where community comes first.

#107 Dr. David Ness - Certified Sports Chiropractor New Paltz, New York

Dr. David Ness is a certified sports chiropractor based in New Paltz, New York, helping athletes and active individuals recover, move better, and perform at their best. Dr. Ness is also Certified Master Active Release Techniques® Provider, Certified Kennedy Spinal Decompression Specialist, and a Certified Titleist Golf Fitness Instructor®. Since 2015, he has served as the official chiropractor and ART® provider for the Army West Point football team. Outside the office, Dr. Ness is a husband and father of two, who enjoys yoga, golf, mountain biking, snowboarding, and spending time outdoors with his family—bringing a well‑rounded, real‑world perspective to health, movement, and recovery.

#106 Paul Steely White - Father - Husband - Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York

Paul Steely White is the Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York, where he leads efforts to expand and protect access to parks, trails, and public lands across the state. Previously, he spent 14 years as Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives, helping transform New York City’s streets and public spaces through successful pedestrian, bicycling, and car‑free initiatives, including Car‑Free Central Park. Paul holds degrees from the University of Illinois and the University of Montana and enjoys biking and hiking the Hudson River Valley with his family.