Appalachian Shine: Recent Episodes

None

Showcasing the best of Appalachian culture, history, economic opportunity and places to visit.

View Details

Step into the remarkable history of Richmond, Kentucky, where the Bluegrass meets Appalachia and some of America's most dramatic stories unfolded. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we journey from the frontier days of Revolutionary War veteran John Miller and the founding of Richmond to the thunder of cannon fire during the Battle of Richmond—one of the Confederacy's most decisive victories of the Civil War.

Along the way, you'll meet the original Cassius Marcellus Clay, the fearless Kentucky abolitionist who survived assassination attempts, carried a Bowie knife, befriended Abraham Lincoln, and helped shape American history. We'll also explore Richmond's role as a frontier crossroads, the rise of Eastern Kentucky University, local ghost stories and Appalachian folklore, and the resilient people who rebuilt their community through war, fire, and generations of change.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Civil War buff, a fan of Appalachian culture, or simply love discovering the hidden stories behind America's small towns, this episode offers a fascinating journey into one of Kentucky's most historic communities. Join us as we uncover the people, battles, legends, and enduring spirit that make Richmond a place where history is still very much alive.

  • AppalachianShine

  • RichmondKY

  • KentuckyHistory

  • AppalachianHistory

  • CivilWarHistory

  • AmericanHistory

  • HistoryPodcast

  • HiddenHistory

  • CassiusMarcellusClay

  • ExploreKentucky

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

The Appalachian Mountains are among the oldest on Earth—and perhaps among the most mysterious.

In this episode of Appalachian Shine, host J.C. journeys deep into the hills and hollers to uncover ten of the strangest things ever found in Appalachia. From glowing lights floating above North Carolina's Brown Mountain to abandoned coal towns reclaimed by the forest, hidden moonshine tunnels, unexplained sounds in the wilderness, ancient artifacts, forgotten schoolhouses, cryptid encounters, and legends of lost treasure, this episode explores the fascinating intersection of Appalachian history, folklore, and mystery.

Along the way, you'll discover the real locations behind these stories, the historical events that shaped them, and the enduring legends that continue to captivate generations of mountain people.

Are these tales rooted in fact, folklore, or something stranger?

Pull up a chair, settle in, and join us as we explore the secrets buried deep within Appalachia—because the mountains keep their secrets, but every now and then, they let one slip.

Have a strange Appalachian story of your own? We'd love to hear it. Send us your experiences, local legends, and mysterious locations for a chance to be featured in a future episode of Appalachian Shine.

*#Appalachia

AppalachianMountains

AppalachianHistory

AppalachianCulture

AppalachianStories

MountainLore

MountainLife

Folklore

AmericanFolklore*

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

On this episode of Appalachian Shine, we sit down to talk with Kathy Stewart about the upcoming Clinch River Days Festival and everything visitors can expect during the three-day celebration. From live music and local vendors to family activities and events happening all across town, we explore how this festival brings together the spirit, culture, and community of Southwest Virginia. If you love small-town festivals, Appalachian tradition, and summertime by the river, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

StPaulVA

Appalachia

ClinchRiver

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Tonight on Appalachian Shine, we travel into the mountains of Letcher County to explore the story of Jenkins, Kentucky—a town that didn’t grow slowly over generations, but appeared almost overnight with the coming of coal and the railroad.

We begin long before Jenkins had a name, when this land was shaped by Native movement, dense forest, and the quiet rhythm of Appalachian life. Then, almost all at once, everything changed. A powerful coal company arrived, the railroad carved its way through the hills, and a fully formed company town rose from the valley—bringing jobs, opportunity, control, and contradiction.

But this isn’t just a story about industry.

It’s about the people who built lives inside a system they didn’t create…
The families who found community on front porches and along creek banks…
The stories that still echo—from the biggest fish ever caught in a local pond, to the quiet mysteries

whispered in the mountains after dark.

We’ll talk about the boom years, the decline of coal, and what remains today in a town still holding onto its identity while searching for what comes next.

And by the end, we’ll leave you with a few questions worth carrying:

What happens to a town when the reason it was built begins to fade?
Can a place shaped by industry ever truly become its own?

And how many stories like this are still waiting—just beyond the next ridge?

This is more than history.
It’s memory. It’s identity. It’s Appalachia.

StorytellingPodcast

HistoryPodcast

JenkinsKY

LetcherCounty

CoalMining

CompanyTown

CoalHistory

AmericanHistory

HiddenHistory

SmallTownStories

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In the early morning hours of February 26, 1972, a wall of black water tore through a narrow Appalachian hollow in Logan County—erasing communities, taking lives, and leaving behind a silence that still echoes today. The Buffalo Creek Mine Disaster wasn’t just a tragedy—it was a moment that changed families, reshaped a region, and raised questions that have never fully settled.

But history doesn’t always capture what it felt like to live there… to lose everything… to remember.

In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we sit down with Isabel Reddy, author of That You Remember, a powerful novel inspired by the people and stories of Buffalo Creek. Through fiction rooted in a real tragedy, Reddy explores the emotional aftermath of disaster—the grief, the resilience, and the burden of memory carried by those who survived.

Together, we talk about the real communities that were lost, the responsibility of telling stories drawn from tragedy, and what it means for Appalachia to remember—not just what happened, but who it happened to.

Because some places don’t disappear…they live on in the stories we choose to tell.

ThatYouRemember

IsabelReddy

HistoricalFiction

BooksThatMatter

AuthorInterview

BuffaloCreek

BuffaloCreekDisaster

WestVirginiaHistory

AmericanHistory

ForgottenHistory

AppalachianShine

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore the origins and enduring legacy of Barbourville—one of the oldest towns in eastern Kentucky. Founded in 1799, Barbourville helped bring structure and stability to the Appalachian frontier, serving as the heart of Knox County through its earliest days.

From pioneer settlement and early leadership to its strategic role during the Civil War, we uncover how this small town stood at the crossroads of history. We also look at the traditions, culture, and community spirit that continue to define Barbourville today.

This is more than a story about a town—it’s a story about how Appalachia began.

BarbourvilleKY

EasternKentucky

AppalachianHistory

KnoxCountyKY

FrontierHistory

CivilWarHistory

www.supportappalachia.org Donate $10 today!

View Details

Once known across the region as Little Las Vegas, Middlesboro was a town of bright lights, coal money, gambling halls, and contradictions—nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains.

In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore the full story of Middlesboro from its ambitious founding in the late 19th century to its wild boomtown years, its crackdowns and coal decline, and its enduring reinvention as a cultural and historic crossroads.

Built near the legendary Cumberland Gap and set inside a rare meteorite crater, Middlesboro became more than just a town—it became the economic, social, and cultural heartbeat of Bell County. We trace how railroads, coal, vice, art, and resilience shaped a community that refused to disappear when the lights went out.

This is not just a story about gambling or coal.

It’s a story about Appalachia itself—its risks, its reckonings, and its quiet strength.

Whether you’re from the mountains or simply drawn to their stories, this episode sheds light on a place where myth and memory still walk the same streets.

AppalachianShine

LittleLasVegas

MiddlesboroKY

EasternKentucky

AppalachianHistory

CoalCountry

View Details

In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore how invention in the mountains didn’t come from laboratories or corporations—but from necessity. From the steamboat tested on the Potomac near Shepherdstown, to wire rope forged in Pennsylvania coal country, to moonshine stills refined in hidden hollers, Appalachia quietly helped build the modern world.

With stories of overlooked inventors, unnamed craftspeople, and communities solving life-or-death problems, this episode traces how innovation born of hard terrain, isolation, and resilience reshaped industry, transportation, energy, and everyday life across America.

This is not a story of nostalgia.
It’s a story of survival, ingenuity, and Appalachian brilliance.

AppalachianShine

Appalachia

AppalachianHistory

BuiltInTheHoller

MountainStories

www.supportappalachia.org

Donate today.

View Details

As the calendar flips from one year to the next, Appalachia has never greeted midnight quietly.

In this special episode, we journey into the hills and hollers to uncover ten powerful moments that unfolded on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, when history, hardship, and hope collided. From Civil War battles igniting in the frozen dark, to the birth of a new Appalachian state at the stroke of midnight; from coal miners rising up against injustice, to blizzards, floods, and faith carrying communities through the longest nights—these are stories rarely told, but deeply felt.

Blending vivid storytelling with reflective insight, this episode explores how Appalachians have faced endings and beginnings for generations—not with fireworks, but with resolve. Along the way, we hear how music traveled the airwaves for the first time, how churches became sanctuaries in moments of grief, and how the turning of the year has always been less about celebration and more about survival.

This isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a meditation on resilience, memory, and what it means to stand at the edge of a new year in a place shaped by endurance.

If you’ve ever wondered how the mountains meet midnight—this episode is for you.

Appalachia #NYE25 #NYEinAppalachia #AppalachianTop10#AppalachianHistory

AppalachianStories

CentralAppalachia

SouthernAppalachia

MountainLife

MountainVoices www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

When winter settles into the Appalachian hills, life slows in a way that invites reflection, connection, and quiet peace. In this intimate episode of Appalachian Shine, we travel through small towns and mountain communities—from Tazewell County and Richlands to Abingdon, Bristol, Pikeville, and beyond—exploring how winter reveals the soul of Appalachia. Through gentle storytelling and familiar places, this episode captures the stillness, resilience, and warmth that emerge when the mountains rest, reminding us that sometimes the quietest season speaks the loudest.

Appalachia #AppalachianLife #AppalachianCulture #MountainLife #LifeInTheHills #RuralVoices #SmallTownAmerica #Bristol #Richlands #Pikeville #Abingdon #RussellCounty #PrincetonWV #LewisburgWV

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In this special Thanksgiving edition of Appalachian Shine, Cyrus Alderwood explores how the holiday took shape in the hollers and ridges of Central Appalachia. From early frontier gatherings to church-centered traditions, Depression-era community meals, and modern family celebrations, this episode uncovers the rich, heartfelt history behind a uniquely Appalachian Thanksgiving. Warm, reflective, and full of mountain storytelling, it’s a journey through gratitude, resilience, and the traditions that bind rural America together.

Thanksgiving2025 #ThanksgivingSeason #HolidayTraditions #GiveThanks #GratitudeSeason #FallStories #SupportLocal #CommunityStrong #AppalachianShine #Appalachia #CentralAppalachia #MountainStories #AppalachianCulture #AppalachianHistory #RuralAmerica #MountainLife

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

One year after Hurricane Helene tore through the heart of Appalachia, the scars on the land remain — but so do the stories of strength, compassion, and neighborly love that rose from the floodwaters. In this deeply personal episode of Appalachian Shine, we reflect on how our communities have rebuilt, one act of kindness at a time.

From front porches to food banks, from church basements to muddy driveways, the people of Appalachia have reminded the world what true resilience looks like. We’ll explore the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors — that unshakable bond that defines this region — and the vital role nonprofits play in lifting up small towns when the headlines fade away.

As we share stories of recovery, generosity, and hope, we’ll also look ahead — at how we can all play a part in keeping that light shining. Because here in the mountains, we don’t wait for someone else to fix things. We show up. We help. We give.

Join us for this moving reflection on the Appalachian spirit — and learn how you can stand with us through the Foundation for Appalachian Advancement, helping our neighbors continue to rebuild and rise together.

www.supportappalachia.org

NeighborsHelpingNeighbors #RebuildingTogether #StrongerThanTheStorm #CommunityFirst #HopeInTheHills #AppalachianSpirit #TogetherWeRise #AfterTheStorm #FaithAndResilience

View Details

Deep beneath the Appalachian hills, the coal mines once roared with life — and death. In this Halloween special, Appalachian Shine host J.C. Schweingrouber explores the eerie legends of haunted coal towns and the ghostly whispers that miners swore they heard in the dark. From the Knocking Man of Kaymoor Mine to the Widow’s Lantern of Harlan County, these chilling tales reveal how memory, superstition, and loss still echo through the hollers long after the last coal car rolled away.

If you listen closely… you might just hear the mine whisper back.

www.supportappalachia.org

(We'd appreciate you visiting us online and making a small donation today.)

HalloweenPodcast

SpookySeason

GhostStories

HauntedAppalachia

ParanormalPodcast

GhostTales

HauntedHistory

EerieStories

HauntedCoalTowns

View Details

The Appalachian Mountains hold more than just natural beauty — they keep secrets, too. For generations, people have whispered about glowing ghost lights, drummers who never left the battlefield, and spirits that rise from the water. In this episode, we share five unforgettable ghost stories from the region, each carrying history, mystery, and chills. Turn down the lights and listen close — the mountains have stories to tell.

GreenbriarWV #ClaytorLake #CivilWarGhosts #ghoststories #appalachianghosts

View Details

Take a road trip through the heart of Appalachia as we explore the Top 10 autumn destinations where fiery mountain ridges, hidden byways, and small-town festivals bring fall to life. From world-famous drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway to quirky gems like Kentucky’s Woolly Worm Festival, this episode blends breathtaking scenery with the charm of Appalachian culture. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just love the magic of fall, this is your guide to chasing autumn’s colors across the mountains.

autumnleaves #fall #autumninappalachia #BlueRidgeParkway #SmokyMountains #Dollywood #Kentucky #Tennessee #Virginia #WestVirginia

View Details

In this episode we talk about some of the tales as told and written by Appalachians following the WEP works project under FDR. Jack Tales, Grandfather Tales and some ghost stories!

appalachia #appalachiantales #appalachianstories

View Details

Long before settlers arrived in our region this land was home to several native tribes. Let's take a look back through time.

Our journey will take us back hundreds of years, long before a cabin was ever built here, to the Native American peoples who knew these mountains as home. We’ll talk about the early settlers, the first governments, the creation of enormous counties like Tazewell, and the key events—wars, railroads, coal mining—that shaped our region.

This is more than just history—it’s our story.

SouthwestVirginia #TazewellCounty #appalachianhistory #supportappalachia #CentralAppalachia

View Details

In the 1930's FDR implemented the Works Program Administration (WPA). As a part of that program writers were sent to all parts of Appalachia to collect our stories, our traditions, our histories and folklore. Those collected stories today still live on in our region and published at the Library of Congress. Join in and hear about the history of that project right here on Appalachian Shine. And while you're at it, stop by our website and support our mission.

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Peggy Wolfe of Bristol sits down with us to discuss her book "Her Brother's Dog Tags." A heartfelt story that captures that era in American history, the story combines mystery, dealing with grief, honor and tenacity into a page turner that every person and family can relate to.

"Her Brother's Dog Tags" can be found online at Amazon in paperback and Kindle. (Link below)

AppalachianAuthors #Vietnam #mystery #PeggyWolfe

https://www.amazon.com/Her-Brothers-Tags-Peggy-Wolfe/dp/1959700448/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2COX02OEHG3NJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.J5ioMXbqODtuyAgAAk5PdGM_H25llgT587Qgep1eg1RnFcQXf1rN-YFcpPwKbC39_novQWFlYjnAwFJ7U7TYoDgLeYQy5bEyrYNpQesg4sMiyRiERRdsdjZpJdjyRf6EsbD2HhRZthdoQVs2C1aUWjlN4OXy16i0NtwCgvMCf_W0d1EV9t4O_5kgKScC6lu08knhPCEYHXlmPvNIxvTiMv8DaoWbwCfvrVqjv9pOMrc._efLsoeGs1L1nXSnnc4lXZTM86TbmilpqujRUE9rW_8&dib_tag=se&keywords=peggy+wolfe&qid=1753379301&sprefix=%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-1

View Details

We continue our exploration into the importance of the growth of the railroad in our region. It impacted Bristol VA/TN in profound ways making it a cultural and business hub that literally changed the music industry nationwide! Norton, VA grew from just a small settlement on the way to frontier Kentucky into a hub because rail moved due to the rich coal resources in Wise County. But what were the early businesses that popped up from the quick rise of Norton, VA...and where did Norton get its name?

WiseCountyVirginia #NortonVA #BristolVA #BristolSessions #birthplaceofcountrymusic #appalachianhistory #appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Bluefield, WV used to be a major hub in the regions economic and cultural development. In this episode we explore the history of rail on the development of the region and take a trip back in time to Bluefield, WV.

appalachia #railroads #N&W #BluefieldWV #BluefieldStateU

View Details

Author Chris Skates stops by to talk about his book, Moonshine Over Georgia. Set back in the 1940's, this story is based on real events that took place in the region and the dangers that his own grandfather was in working as a revenuer.

You can find his work on Amazon.

moonshine #ChrisSkates #Appalachia #history #Georgia

View Details

Appalachia and its frontiersmen played a major role in the Revolutionary War and the independence of America. From the brave settlers pressing westward against the rule of the Crown, to the Overmountain Men who fought furiously against the British at the Battle of Kings Mountain, Appalachians played a pivotal role in the making of America and in our manifest destiny.

Appalachia #BattleofKingsMountain #nativetribes #RevolutionaryWar

View Details

In this episode we discuss the history and legendary story of the Bondurant Brothers of Franklin County, Virginia. Also, we look into the history of the Big Six from North Carolina. Both gangs sowed tales of resilience and defiance in the face of law enforcement (even the corrupted ones). This and more in this episode of Appalachian Shine.

Appalachia #moonshine #AppalachianHistory

www.supportappalachia.org Donate Today!

View Details

Moonshine and whisky has a long history and tradition in these here mountains. From the years after the American Revolution up to now, the history of this illicit craft is fascinating with ties to NASCAR and Hollywood.

moonshine #appalachia #appalahianhistory #NASCAR #PopcornSutton

www.supportappalachia.org DONATE TODAY!

View Details

Have you ever wondered what Thanksgiving was like for the early settlers of Appalachia? It certainly wasn't the amazing spread on our tables today. It has changed much over the years. Also, we talk about the rich history of Damascus, Virginia. #appalachia #DamascusVA #TrailTownUSA #ThanksgivinginAppalachia

Foundation For Appalachian Advancement

P.O. Box 397

Richlands, VA 24641

www.supportappalachia.org

To help our mission, can you pay it forward $20 today? Thank you!

View Details

Who doesn't love the story of Sgt. York, an American legend and hero. We talk about his bravery and work in his Tennessee community after his return from WWI. Also, an update as to what we've been doing in the community.

Appalachia #VeteransDay #SgtYork #grattitude

View Details

Rachel Nestor, a member of the Randolph County Community Arts Council, joins us today from Elkins, West Virginia to talk about all that is going on at the Arts Center. From the amazing exhibits, to arts classes and the history of the very unique building where the magic takes place, Rachel takes us through all the great work being done at the Arts Center by the locals. Make sure to visit them online!

TheArtsCenter #RandolphArtsCenter #ElkinsWVA #art #appalachia

View Details

Halloween is upon us in a few weeks and it looks like people around the region are excited for the coming holidays already. In this episode we talk about a couple of legends and spooky stories. What Halloween traditions do you have?

We also pay tribute to an Appalachian author and dear friend, Addie Davis. She will be missed.

AddaLeahDavis #Appalachia #Halloween #AppalachianTraditions #PutnamCounty

View Details

Beth from Back of the Dragon in Tazewell, VA stops by to talk about their upcoming events, the brewery, the shop and one of the best scenic drives in Southwest Virginia. Also, 32 miles, over 400 curves and 3,500 ft in elevation...this is a drive you'll want to make this autumn.

Also, on 8/24 is the benefit ride for Deputy Hunter Reedy who was killed in the line of duty. Make sure to support this effort on Saturday!

BackoftheDragon #scenicdrive #scenicvirginia #TazewellCounty #DeputyHunterReedy #appalachia

View Details

Kate Brandes is an author and scientist, having spent her professional career working in geology. She recently wrote The Promise of Pierson Orchard, a suspense novel set in a small town, something she relates to on a personal level. Her newest novel, Stone Creek, is available on Amazon in August. You can pre-order now! Visit her website at www.katebrandes.com.

Appalachia #books #KateBrandes

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Marshall Adesman from the Exchange Place in Kingsport stops by to talk about the working farm that is a blast from the past, right out of the 1800's! Tours available, and we talk about some really cool history surrounding the property.

ExchangePlace #Kingsport #Tennessee #DanielBoone

View Details

George Ella Lyon, Kentucky Poet Laureate, author and musician joins us to share her story growing up in Harlan, KY and her journey into the craft and world of poetry.

GeorgeEllaLyon #poets #Appalachia #HarlanKY

View Details

Dale Hall has spent a lifetime working in conservation. His love of nature and our environment began in Harlan, KY where he grew up. He later became the head of Fish and Wildlife under President George W. Bush and finished up his career as CEO of Ducks Unlimited. He stops by to share his story and his two books that talk about his journey from the mountains to making a difference in conservation on a national level.

DaleHall #conservation #HarlanKY #Appalachia

View Details

Appalachian book and magazine publisher, Janie Jessee of Jan Carol Publishing in Johnson City, TN stops by to talk about the 20th anniversary of Voice Magazine For Women and the writers and creative minds of her publishing company here in Central Appalachia.

appalachia #JanCarolPublishing #appalachianmagazine #voicemagazine

View Details

There is so much fascinating history that happened in Central Appalachia. Near the cozy town of St. Paul you'll find a historical marker that shows the approximate location of Moor's Fort. Who was Moore and why was this fort built here? We dive into the 1770's along the Clinch River in this episode of Appalachian Shine.

St.Paul #RussellCounty #WiseCounty #DanielBoone #MooresFort #AppalachianHistory

View Details

In this episode we talk about the history of Hazard, KY. Also, what creatures are lurking out there in our mountains?

HazardKY #Kentucky #SWVA #MotherGooseHouse #appalachiantrail #mountainmonsters #mothman #bigfoot

View Details

Here's our top 10 suggestions for your reading pleasure. It's important to support your local writers, and here are some great reads for the coming new year.

appalachianbooks #appalachianwriters #demoncopperhead

View Details

We are blessed with amazing history in our region. During the Civil War many battles were fought in our region on both sides of the conflict. Today we talk a little about the Saltville Massacre and recommend a few books about the Civil War in our region.

Also, a special thanks to A! Magazine for the Arts for highlighting our podcast in their latest edition. We greatly appreciate you and all of our listeners.

https://aamearts.org/magazine/article/appalachian-shine-promotes-the-regions-culture/20231030190502835

www.supportappalachia.org

Appalachia #CivilWar #SaltvilleVA #Saltville

View Details

Take a drive through these gorgeous mountains and take in all the fall colors. Don't forget to take photos!! And be sure to share with us.

Also, what's coming up soon for the FAA.

appalachia #appalachian #fallcolors #fallfoliage #DavisWV #fallhikes

www.appalachianbackroads.com

View Details

In this episode we continue our Appalachian Storyteller series with Adda Davis, who we all dearly called "Addie." She's a McDowell County, WV native now living in Russell County, VA. She is a retired elementary school teacher and counselor and spends her time in many authors' guilds around the region, including the Appalachian Authors Guild. You can follow her online at her website https://addaleahdavis.com/index.html. 

AddaLeahDavis #appalachia #appalachainauthor

View Details

What is your vision for the future of our region? What would you like to see in regards to tourism and economic development? How about having educational videos and literature available to learn the rich history of our region and about our importance in the development of this great nation? That is something we asked ourselves when we set up the FAA. And now we ask you to share in our vision and goals. 

This episode is a brief history of Appalachia and why it is important to promote our culture and history, and to reach out and help others when we can. 

Appalachia #Appalachianhistory #AppalachianPride #AppalachianTrail #giving

View Details

West Virginia is home to countless festivals and good times during the summer months. We talk about a few of them in this episode and we highlight the upcoming events of Clinch River Days in St. Paul, VA. 

WestVirginia #Appalachia #festivals #summerfun #StPaulVA #ClinchRiverDays

View Details

Author Russell W. Johnson stops by today to talk about his upcoming book, The Moonshine Messiah, and read from his short story that landed him the coveted Pearl S. Buck Award! Moonshine Messiah is set to release on Friday May 26th. You can find his work on Amazon and on his website, www.russellwjohnson.com.

MoonshineMessiah #appalachia #books

www.supportappalachia.org 

View Details

There are several events worth attending going on all around our region in the months of April and May. 

Writers Day--Spring Fling w/ the Appalachian Authors Guild

Redbud Festival--Honaker, VA

Numerous events around Abingdon, VA!

Honaker #Abingdon #Bristol #appalachia #appalachian

View Details

Angel Mefford, victim advocate from Family Crisis Services in Norton, VA joins us to talk about the upcoming 5K Run in Big Stone Gap to bring awareness and raise funds to help victims of domestic violence in our region.

appalachia #domesticabuse #operationhelpinghand

www.supportappalachia.org

https://www.raceentry.com/races/fcss-a-5k-in-their-shoes-race-for-sexual-assault-awareness/2023/register

View Details

Celeste Parsons, author of Wait Until I Grow Up and editor of Nelsonville From A to Z joins us to talk about her first children's book and read from both. We also discuss her work with Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville. With 85,000 miles on the bike under her belt since 2000, she is working on another book highlighting her travels across the bike trails of America with her husband. 

CelesteParsons #MondayCreekPublishing #biketrails #Nelsonville #StuartsOperaHouse

View Details

Dr. Lewis joins us to talk about her journey through dealing with ongoing health issues and being in multiple nursing homes. She also shares a bit about her career in journalism and communication, as well as her years growing up in Bluefield, WV at the Hotel Thelma.

Appalachia #HotelThelma #GreenBook #BluefieldWV #DrCarolynLewis

View Details

Every once in a while the Appalachian Authors Guild publishes an anthology of short stories, poems and essays by members. Today's highlighted story is South Holston Blues. Also, an update on Operation Helping Hand and our next dropoff in March. 

Appalachia #SouthHolstonLake #AppalachianAuthorsGuild #OperationHelpingHand

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Linda joins us today to read excerpts from her books of poetry and nonfiction. Linda is an award winning author with over 40 books to her credit. You can find her work on Amazon and online at her website www.lindasbooksandangels.com. 

appalachia #author #poetry

View Details

There are many reasons for supporting the local arts.

  1. It builds onto our rich culture.2. It can serve to educate and entertain all age groups. (Have you read some of the amazing books by regional authors?)3. It is a proven driver for tourism.4. It inspires young minds.5. It can help local businesses.6. Supporting art in Appalachia gives a voice to our artists to teach others about our history and culture, to open minds not just in Appalachia but anywhere art from this region is able to travel.

appalachia #CorbinKY #SOAR-KY #arts

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

I love this time of year. Our best wishes to you and yours during this wonderful season. 

Christmas #Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

At the turn of the century the smallest town in Tennessee was formed for the sole purpose of distilling whisky! This is one of the countless fun stories from our regional history. Only in Appalachia! The story of Lovely City, TN.

Appalachia #whisky #EastTennessee #LovelyCity #history

www.supportappalachia.org

We would love your support and donation. 

View Details

Talk about bad timing, they commissioned the building of South Holston Dam in December of 1941. That's the same moth the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Construction was delayed, over 300 families had to be relocated...and over 500 graves!!!

Thanksgiving #appalachia #SouthHolstonLake

View Details

Appalachia is well known and loved for its folklore, superstitions, and legends. In this episode we talk about strange legends and superstitions of Appalachian Christmas!

appalachia #holidays #thanksgiving #Christmas

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Steven James, award winning best selling author of 18 books, joins us on the podcast to talk about his latest work, his podcast, and the art of telling a great and worthy story. 

StevenJames #bestseller #books #scifi #fantasy #adventure

www.stevenjames.net

View Details

Amity Lane and Erica Hall join us to talk about the coming renovations for the historic library, the rich history of the building, and the Mad Hatter Dinner happening next week in support of the library. 

Richlands #historicbuilding #library #TazewellCounty #FriendsOftheLibrary

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

A brief discussion of our history. #DanielBoone #Rhythm&Roots #Bristol #NASCAR #CommunityChurchatBristol #OperationHelpingHand #homeless #Appalachia

View Details

Visit our Facebook page for a link to resources on how to donate and volunteer to help the victims of the severe flooding in our region.

Also, we are asking for donations to help us build our coffers for helping out folks in future floods/natural disasters. This is a major priority. 

View Details

Homelessness in our region is a terrible thing, and something that goes under the radar because it isn't seen as easily as you'd see it in a big city. However, it is a problem and we are doing our part to help with Operation Helping Hand. We'd love your help and support. #Appalachia #homeless #helpinghand #payitforward 

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

InfoSecCheck owner Joe Boyd of Haysi talks about the growing need for cyber security and gives us some helpful tips to protect our businesses and to protect ourselves from identity theft. 

Appalachai #cybersecurity

View Details

Heather Kime of Big Walker Lookout joins us to talk about the history of BWL, the events happening every weekend, and their life long support of regional arts and artists. BWL is a stop Along the Crooked Road. Amazing live music every weekend!

appalachia #BigWalkerLookout #arts #music #culture

View Details

In this episode we talk with Dr. Gary Stratton about the formation of the St. James Medical Fund to help with costs for prescreenings in the region. 

Appalachia #Pikeville #CentralAppalachia #health #prescreening

View Details

Upcoming events including the 24th annual Clinch River Fest and summer camps for kids at Clinch River Farms!

Appalachia #summerevents #festivals #StPaulVA #ClinchRiver #ClinchRiverFest

View Details

A short Easter message for our listeners and supporters. Have a great holiday and let's all be thankful for our blessings and remember this weekend for the precious meaning for all of us. 

Appalachia #Easter

View Details

Appalachia has a unique environment, one that has given rise in recent years to a growing wine industry. Jessee Ring of JBR Vineyards joins us to talk about his journey from Appalachia to Silicon Valley and back before opening his vineyard. 

AppalachianWine #JBRVineyards

View Details

Richard Hudson, owner of Clinch River Farms, joins us to talk about the events held at the farm, and the amazing work done by the nonprofit organizations they fund. Mountain Kids, Inc. and Attitude Arts Academy. From summer camps to after school programs, Mr. Hudson is following a calling. Learn more about what they do by visiting them online and on their social media. 

TazewellCounty #Appalachia #MountainKidsInc #AttitudeArtsAcademy #RichardHudson #ClinchRiverFarms #RichlandsVA

View Details

Sara Robinson sits down with us to discuss her memoir as well as her works in poetry about her life, travels, and even about coal mining in Southwest Virginia. Come along for this fascinating conversation about how she went from a chemist in the industry to a poet after retiring. You can catch her on the road this summer at events including the Highlands Festival in Abingdon later on this summer. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfsPNgCUACk

SaraRobinson #SouthernPoet #Appalachia #UVAWise #WiseVA #PoundVA

View Details

Connie stops by to discuss her books with us. Among her works are several children's books as well as a devotional for adults. Faith is such an important part of our our way of life here in Appalachia. Connie's works have been inspired by her faith. Her books are available on Amazon and you can follow her on Facebook and Twitter. 

ConnieWohlford #AppalachianAuthors #Christianbooks #childrensbooks

View Details

Damean is a life-long writer from the region that felt his calling to be a writer very early in life. He shares his passion as an English teacher in Russell County, Virginia and has several books to his credit. 

He is currently leading seminars in coordination with Southwest Community College and you can sign up for those right now. They run through the next several months. 

https://dameanmathews.com/

Appalachia #AppalachianBooks #AppalachianArts #mystery #gothic #poetry

View Details

Marybeth Adkins, Executive Director of the Family Crisis Support Services in Norton, VA joins us to talk about their ongoing work to help the homeless, victims of domestic abuse, and children in need in our region. Unlike large cities where the homeless problem is evident, the problem is largely hidden and mostly misunderstood and unknown in our region. We discuss why that is, the growing rate of domestic violence and the help they provide. You can support them online by visiting www.family-crisis.org

Appalachia #homeless #domesticviolence #childrenservice #familyservices

View Details

From chopping down your own tree, hanging mistletoe, to helping the needy. There are all kinds of Christmas traditions in Appalachia. What are some traditions that you and your family have?

Appalachia #Christmas #traditions #OldChristmas #SantaTrain

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Tara Maynard of Pulaski County, KY, our newest board member, sits in with us to talk about the issues of Central Appalachia and share her expertise and experiences. We discuss the future of the region and specifically the coal industry in Eastern Kentucky. 

https://kysuafs.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8tW3tXHI2a1BDSK

coal #Appalachia #TaraMaynard #Kentucky

View Details

Dr. Gary Stratton, an original founder and board member (and Vice-President) talks about economic development and opportunities in the region and why he believes strongly in the grassroots efforts to improve our quality of life in Appalachia. 

We also talk about two of our original founders that unfortunately passed away. Melinda Elswick and James Hibbitts have left their mark on our organization and on our hearts. 

Appalachia #AppalachiaEducation #EconomicDevelopment #DrGaryStratton

View Details

Appalachia is no stranger to tall tales, legends, and haunts. In this episode we talk about Rotherwood Mansion in Kingsport, TN. It is the home of tragedy and despair, of hope and hopes dashed, and a history of brutality leading up to the Civil War. Come along for the ride and learn about the 4 ghosts that still haunt the place to this very day.

RotherwoodMansion #KingsportTN #Kingsport #ghosts #hauntings #Appalachia

View Details

The Clinch River is one of the most ecologically diverse rivers in America. Thanks to a lot of local support and grass roots effort, the Clinch River State Park is a reality and could be an important part of the puzzle for bringing in tourism and getting our locals back outside and enjoying nature here in our own back yard! 

ClinchRiver #StatePark #Virginia #blueway

View Details

We go back to the 1800's for this criminal case out of Lewis County, Kentucky! Mayhem was the crime, and the sheriff was his friend. This tale of fisticuffs and a journey to the penitentiary in Frankfort leads the prisoner to the Governor by accident. You'll never guess what happens next (unless you've already heard this story)!

KentuckyHistory #Appalachia #LewisCountyKY #AppalachianHistory

View Details

It's been decades since the infamous Manhattan Project was hidden away in Central Appalachia at Oak Ridge, TN. During that time spies roamed our mountains in search of national secrets during WW2 and leading up to the Cold War with the Russians. 

ManhattanProject #Appalachia #OakRidgeTN

View Details

Looking for something to read about Appalachia or from Appalachian authors? You'll love this episode of Appalachian Shine! Make sure to pick up some of these gems for the book lover in your life this holiday season.

Appalachia #Appalachianbooks #Appalachianauthors

View Details

Well, we all learn something new everyday. And today I stumbled upon some fun history that I didn't know about. Little Newbern, VA was a shopping hub and possibly the first location in Appalachia that embraced buying gifts for Christmas! People travelled from far around to the Great Wagon Road that took them to downtown Newbern!

GreatWagonRoad #NewbernVA #Appalachia #ChristmasInAppalachia

View Details

We're all aware of the issue of income disparity in Appalachia vs. the rest of the country. A recent article on Bloomberg (shared on our Facebook page) reveals how far behind we are on owning income generating assets. This is an important piece of solving our economic issues that we can start to impact right now. 

Appalachia #IncomeDisparity #Investing #CentralAppalachia

www.facebook.com/supportappalachia 

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In the 1950's Wytheville, VA was thrust into the national spotlight for having the highest per capita ratio of the polio pandemic. It was running at twice the national average. Wytheville, then a tourist destination, had to shut down and put up a sign to warn travelers away. 

We can find a lot of similarities in how we handled that outbreak in Appalachia and how we are handling COVID-19. "We've been to this rodeo before," as one elderly man recently told me. 

Appalachia #pandemic #polio #Wytheville #SummerWithoutChildren

View Details

100 years ago this month the Battle of Blair Mountain in West Virginia made national headlines, putting the fight for unionization on the front page in every home. 

Also, will Appalachia be prime real estate in 50 years?

Appalachia #history #BlairMountain #WestVirginia

View Details

Robert Prather, author of The Strange Case of Jonathan Swift and the Real Long John Silver, joins us for part 2 of our discussion about the possibility of lost treasure in Eastern Kentucky and his theory behind the legend. 

Appalachia #Appalachianhistory #AppalachianLegends #RobertPrather #SwiftSilverMine #Kentucky

View Details

Author Robert Prather, The Strange Case of Jonathan Swift and the Real Long John Silver, sits with us to discuss this mysterious Appalachian legend and takes us on a real life journey of an American patriot and the founding of our nation. 

Appalachia #SwiftSilverMine #RobertPrather

View Details

The AT has a fun and unique history and a vibrant culture filled with amazing stories and unique characters. 

www.traildays.us

www.supportappalachia.org

Appalachia #AppalachianTrail #DamascusVA #TrailDays #trailnames #WhitetopMountain

View Details

Author and school teacher Cathy Conley of Knott County, KY joins us to discuss the rich and fun history passed down by her grandmother and how that became the inspiration behind her books. Cathy shares a passion for Appalachia, her Eastern Kentucky roots, and has a unique view from the "holler" she calls home. 

Appalachia #Appalachianbooks #stories #history #CathyConley

View Details

The Appalachian Regional Commission released their most recent Chartbook for 2015-2019 to highlight the changing numbers in education rates, economic disparity, and poverty rates. The report is very extensive and in this episode we do a high overview of the numbers. 

Also, on this day in history Ronald Reagan gave his famous "Tear down this wall..." speech in Berlin, Germany. 

Appalachia #Appalachianhistory #AppalachainEconomy

www.facebook.com/supportappalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Bunny Medeiros, author of Friendliest Town on the Trail and Walking to Wijiji...my journey overcoming loneliness joins us today as we sit down in Abingdon, VA to talk about her work, what inspires her, and her family history.

Inspiration #TheAzores #Damascus #Appalachia #author

https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Wijiji-journey-overcoming-loneliness/dp/1687306915/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&qid=1623184527&refinements=p_27%3ABunny+Medeiros&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Bunny+Medeiros

View Details

A brief Memorial Day message from your pals at the FAA. :)

Appalachia

View Details

Appalachian author Kari Kilgore stops by to talk about her publishing company, the challenges of self publishing, and her strange connection to what we know as the Stanley Hotel from the horror movie The Shining! 

AppalachianAuthors #writing #Appalachia #KariKilgore #SpiralPublishing #TheShining #AppalachianAuthorsGuild

View Details

Tammy has been a champion for Appalachian women writers for years. She sits down with us to talk about her latest work, what motivated her to publish women's voices, and the growing number of Appalachian writers in recent years. 

Appalachia #Appalachianwriters #writing #womenwriters

View Details

Following up on a previous episode, the original ten towns of Appalachian League Baseball are ready to go with a brand new season starting in June! Teams include the Bristol State Liners and the Princeton Whistlepigs. Gotta love those names!

Also, if you haven't read anything by Napoleon Hill you might want to toss some of his work on your summer reading list.

AppalachianLeagueBaseball

NapoleonHill

Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

http://www.facebook.com/supportappalachia 

View Details

Appalachia is still a place of mystery, wonderous beauty and opportunity. It is also one of the most stereotyped places and people in the world. However, the region and people have contributed significantly to our nation and its history and culture. In this episode we talk about a couple of books that defend that point of view and should be on every Appalachian's reading list. 

Appalachia #Appalachianhistory

View Details

Addie Davis and Linda Hoagland spend some time with us to talk about their lives, experiences and how that shaped their writing careers here in Appalachia. 

AddaLeahDavis #LindaHudsonHoagland #Appalachia #writing #arts #crafts

View Details

Nick DeFord, Program Director at Arrowmont in downtown Gatlinburg, joins us to talk about their community outreach, the classes taught at Arrowmont, and their Legacy program to teach traditional Appalachian arts and crafts throughout the region and nationwide. 

AppalachianArts #AppalachianCrafts #Arrowmont #GatlinburgTN

View Details

Adam Mason from Kentucky Mysteries drops by to talk some tall tales and legends of these mountains we call home. 

RedRiverGorge #ScottCountyVA #AppalachianTrail #HellierKY #UrbanLegends #Appalachia #ghost #AppalachianMysteries

View Details

We sit down and talk with three pastors about how the pandemic has affected their churches, their membership, and their ability to keep the doors open. Church and faith are such a big part of our Appalachian culture, but many churches in our region may have to close their doors for good. 

Appalachia #Church #pastors #Bristol #Virginia #Tennessee #faith

View Details

Whether you are looking for a regional cookbook, a thriller, a mystery, or something of faithful devotion, you'll find all kinds of options from Appalachian writers. These Guild members talk about the benefits of being part of the regional guild and what they've learned during their time of membership. 

Appalachia #AppalachianAuthorsGuild #books

View Details

The mysterious lights of Brown Mountain have shown up for hundreds of years and still defy explanation. Are they lights from trains and passing cars? Are they orbs of the supernatural, or are they from another place entirely? This is yet another fascinating Appalachian mystery that even found fame in one of the most popular shows of the past 30 years, the X-Files!

BrownMountainLights #mystery #mysteriousappalachian #Appalachia #UFOs #orbs #NativeAmericanLegend

View Details

This pandemic has hurt small businesses all over our nation. Our region already faces economic headwinds w/o the lockdowns. Tune in for this and a bright spot that may lay ahead in for our tourism industry, especially in outdoor recreation.

Appalachia #outdoors #pandemic #smallbusiness

View Details

Have you ever wondered why the Blue Ridge Mountains are blue? Ever wondered if that's a real gold dome on the West Virginia State Capitol Building? Also, a short tribute to Melinda Elswick, one of our founders and board members...and one heck of an amazing sister. 

Appalachia #COVID #BlueRidgeMountains #WestVirginia #goldendome

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In this episode we talk with Mayor Bill Hartley about the coming Hard Rock Hotel and Casino to Bristol, VA. We discuss the economic benefits and what it will mean for the region.

BristolVA #Virginia #HardRockCasino #Tourism #jobs #gambling #culture

View Details

Gist led a complicated life. He was tasked by George Washington with keeping alliances with the Cherokee in order to keep strength in the raging French and Indian War in the north. His ties with the Cherokee was a blessing and a downfall for him, as he was charged with treason and accused of being a spy for the Cherokee, but later pardoned. History finally corrected itself in 1976, more than 200 years later, in Kingsport, TN. 

Kingsport #Tennessee #Cherokee #Appalachia #Appalachianhistory #GeorgeWashington

View Details

He rode into TN on a race horse, seldom missed a shooting contest, and would often hunt before he'd show up in court. Andrew Jackson was not just our 7th Presendent and hero of the War of 1812. He was an Appalachian lawyer!

AndrewJackson #JonesboroTN #Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Appalachian League baseball took a bow and exited stage left in 2020 after cancelling its final season due to COVID-19. Here's a brief history of our favorite pastime and what's next for baseball in the mountains.

AppalachianLeagueBaseball #AppyLeagues #baseball #Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

Rediscovering our local history is vital to preserving our rich cultural heritage here in Appalachia. Every town and community has stories to tell. Busthead, VA has one. So does Jewell Ridge and Maiden Springs. Where did your town get its name?

Appalachia #AppalachianHistory #CentralAppalachia #mountainlegends

View Details

Nearly everyone in our region has been to visit the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. But have you visited the most haunted locations there? 

Gatlinburg

SmokyMountains

Appalachia

Cherokee

Spearfinger

CadesCove

www.supportappalachia.org

www.facebook.com/supportappalachia

View Details

Since the era of silent film, Hollywood has consistently portrayed Appalachians as uneducated, backwards, and poverty stricken. Many times even worse! But that doesn't represent Appalachia at all. Dr. Benko and I talk about how to change this perception and about the endless opportunities here in Appalachia. 

hillbilly

Appalachian

Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

In this episode, we explore some local history and the importance of Col. William Russell. 

RussellCounty

Lebanon

Castlewood

StPaul

Appalachia

www.supportappalachia.org

View Details

With the changing of the leaves, there is no better time to get in your car and take a scenic drive. Along the way, make sure you stop and take in the culture and history of your part of Appalachia. In this episode, we explore what to do in Tazewell County, VA.

TazewellCountyVA #Appalachia #FortWitten #coalmines #scenicdrives #BurkesGarden

View Details

Have you ever marked an X on your windshield 3 times to ward off bad luck? When you harvest that apple tree you better leave one apple hanging to avoid the devil! More Appalachian superstitions in this episode of Appalachian Shine.

Appalachia #Appalachiansuperstitions #myths #WhitetopMountain #DamascusVA #GraysonCountyVA

View Details

Do you remember all the superstitions and Appalachian tall tales you heard from your childhood? Stories of local haunts and monsters in the woods? That if you see a ring around the moon in winter that you're going to have a major snow? In this episode we talk about some well known, and some not so well known, superstitions and mysteries. 

Appalachia #AppalachianMysteries #AppalachianLegends #Snallygaster #DwayyoCreature

View Details

A bit of history behind Mountain Parkway and the scenic attractions along the way. With autumn approaching fast, this is one drive you should make. Make sure to take your camera!

Kentucky #EasternKentucky #Appalachia #RedRiverGorge #SladeKentucky #CentralAppalachia

Make sure to visit us at www.supportappalachia.org. We'd love your support in helping us keep this podcast going with a small donation. 

View Details

Thinking back to the attacks on 9-11, and why we need that unifying spirit of September 12th in our nation today. 

View Details

In this episode we look back at the legendary ride of Molly Tynes of Tazewell County during 1863 and talk about the massacre of the Roark Family that settled in Baptist Valley.

localhistory #Appalachia #Appalachianhistory #TazewellCountyVA

View Details

Willie Dalton, author of the Gravedigger series and other works, joins us to talk about her books, her writing process, and her award winning Three Witches In A Small Town.

Appalachian #Appalachianarts #Appalachianwriters #paranormal #PoundVA

View Details

Adam and I talk about the Battle of Ivy Mountain and the new memorial for the Middle Creek Battlefield near Prestonsburg, KY. Also, we discuss an upcoming project for the FAA.

Kentucky #Civil War #history #dosomething #todo

View Details

On this edition we talk with Heather Kime of Big Walker Lookout about their dedication to the arts and the community. Barry Lee Bowman stops by to sing a few tunes for us!

BigWalkerLookout #Appalachian #TheCrookedRoad

View Details

In this episode we pay tribute to a woman who's courage and dedication to help Appalachian families put her in the history books. We also discuss the mystery behind the name of the AT's Blood Mountain.

AT #AppalachianTrail #MaryBreckinridge #hiking #HydenKY

View Details

In this episode we look back at the history of Southwest Virginia just prior to the Revolutionary War and talk about the forts that peppered the landscape to protect settlers from Indian raids. 

LordDunmoresWar #RevolutionaryWar #BattleofPointPleasant #FortWitten #Appalachia #Appalachianhistory

View Details

Fort Witten has a long and storied history, one of great importance not just to the pioneer settlements in Central Appalachia, but it (along with others) helped set the stage for America settling the west!

LordDunmoresWar #SouthwestVirginia #colony #Virginia #TazewellCounty #Appalachia

View Details

Sgt. York was a war hero and international star from Eastern Tennessee. Baseball has a long history in Appalachia going back to right after the Civil War! What was the name of your town's team?

Appalachia #baseball #AlvinYork #Tennessee

View Details

Fan of the movie Tombstone? Sure you are! Texas Jack Vermillion rode with Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp on their infamous ride to take down the nefarious gang known as the Cowboys. Do you know where "Texas" Jack was from? It sure wasn't Texas!

View Details

Bill Hartley, Vice-Mayor of Bristol, VA joins us to discuss tourism in the region and the long term vision of growth in the city, Vision 2034 and maintaining that small town feel in the process. 

Appalahchia

BristolVA

BristolTN

StateStreet

BristolRhythmandRoots

View Details

Adam Mason (kymysteries.com) joins us for this episode of Appalachian Shine. We talk about Gates of Hell Cemetery, the search for aliens in Green Bank, WV, and a place where miracles supposedly happen. 

View Details

In this episode we're joined by entertainer, small business owner, and children's author Jahmal Potter of Norton, VA. Jahmal's latest book is Where is the Woodbooger, a fun adventure for children! The Woodbooger is a regional term for Bigfoot, for those who haven't heard the word before. Listen to this show, then go do the Woodbooger Boogie!

bigfoot

Appalachia

Woodbooger

NortonVA

View Details

Gayle Leeson is an Appalachian author with 31 books to her credit. We discuss her cozy mysteries as well as other books she's written, how she is inspired by the world around her. Saddle up for this discussion and make sure to check out her books on Amazon! Support local artists during these tough times. We need them as much as they need us. 

cozymysteries

Appalachia

Appalachianauthors

AppalachianAuthorsGuild

Appalachianarts

View Details

In this episode of Appalachian Shine we talk with Ricky Barton of OAC (Outdoor Adventure Centers) in Tazewell, Virginia. He discusses the growth in outdoor tourism and adventures, hiking, camping, ATV trails, the Appalachian Trail, kayaking, and countless other things to do in region. We also talk about how the counties and state are working to grow the industry and how effective it has been. 

Appalachia

AppalachianTrail

tourism

View Details

In this episode we discuss the latest report by the Appalachian Regional Commission that highlights the economic standing of the counties in the region. We also welcome Adam Mason to talk about the legends and mysteris of Kentcky #Appalachia

supportappalachia.org. The Foundation For Appalachian Advancement is a 501(c)(3) organization. 

View Details

In this episode we sit down with Dan Swanson, author of Benjamin's Journey: An Appalachian Memoir, and author Victoria Fletcher, owner of Hootbooks Publishing and president of the Appalachian Authors Guild to discuss their thoughts on Hillbilly Elegy, the powerful themes of Appalachian writers, and promoting our region through their work. They also discuss the benefits of being a member of the guild.

You can find Dan's memoir on Amazon.

View Details

In this interview with Ellen Elmes, we talk about her recent book that highlights her artistic career here in Appalachia and why Appalachia means so much to her and has influenced her work. Ellen Elmes is a name that is well known well past these Appalachian mountains, but is held dear by the people in these communities. 

View Details

In this episode we speak with Dr. Willis, the founder of the annual Honey Winter Festival in Richlands, Virginia. Today's event featured artists and crafts makers from the region. This 9 day festival was originally organized to support the local bee keeping industry in light of the dying off of honey bees in the region, and now, according to news sources, we are seeing a resurgance of bee keeping in Southwest Virginia! For more visit our Facebook page. 

View Details

Welcome to Appalachian Shine! The official podcast of the Foundation For Appalachian Advancement, www.supportappalachia.org. This is an introduction to our mission statement and goals in the region and a bit about what we'll be doing with this podcast going forward. Come back and see us!