Fringe Appalachia: Recent Episodes
Jessica Lanning
The Appalachian Mountains have a storied history, woven together by decades of people who’ve often and proudly lived on the fringes. Here, we’re all a little unconventional in our own right.
Fringe Appalachia exists to demystify the other, whether they be in our midst or outside of our comfort zones. From the old-timers still living off the grid to the snake handlers, halfbacks, and dreaded southern democrats…
You’re all welcome here on the fringes.
Listen in as a wonderful, local 'beacon of weirdness' weighs in on connections to nature, Appalachian ephemerals, and two of the world's best plants - ginseng and ramps.
In this episode, Pat Tompkins discusses her unique life living 'off the grid' for decades, and how the history of Appalachia played a part in inspiring her conscientious choices to care for our land and water.
Sources: https://www.ncblueridge.com/great-little-blue-ridge-towns/morganton-mystery-the-brown-mountain-lights
https://www.romanticasheville.com/brown_mountain_lights.htm
https://www.carolinacountry.com/departments/departments/feature-story/the-mysterious-brown-mountain-lights
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_Mountain_lights
http://shadowboxent.brinkster.net/brownexplain.html
https://wlos.com/news/local/asu-scientists-capture-rare-images-of-wncs-brown-mountain-lights
https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/features/appalachian-legends/
https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1971/0646/report.pdf
https://music.apple.com/us/album/legend-of-the-brown-mountain-light/261154690?i=261155510
Chelsea Wilson Thayer is a writer, Christmas tree farmer, mother, and so much more! Listen in as we discuss her Appalachian-themed children’s book, mountain matriarchs, and cornbread (among other things!).
Andrew Cooper is an educator and family man. In this episode, he shares his unique perspective on growing up Appalachian, race, and religion.
Allen Cook is a Christmas tree farmer, small businessman, author, and more! An expert in the outlaws of Appalachian history, Allen shares stories from years long past as well as insights on the ever-present independent spirit of Appalachians even today.