Appalachia Meets World

Appalachia Meets World Episode 15 - Appalachian Foodways (1) - Melissa Booth Hall SFA

In this episode Will and Neil talk to Melissa Booth Hall of the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA).  Listen as she discusses the significance of Appalachian cuisine and the importance of storytelling to preserve the history.  She also talks about her days as a "Yellowjacket" and her love of the "Monster Mash."  In addition, Will and Neil debate whether or not to talk about a last meal.  
Southern Foodways Alliance: southernfoodways.org 
#SmokehouseHam, SpoonBread and Scuppernog Wine: Joseph E. Dabney
#Vicutals and AppalachianJourneynwithRecipes: RonniLundy

Appalachia Meets World Episode 14 - The Battle of Blair Mountain Centennial!

In this special episode, Neil and Will talk to folks from the Mine Wars Museum in Matewan, WV about the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Blair Mountain.  Listen for the history and hear about the exciting happenings that are taking place throughout South Western West Virginia for the Centennial Celebration over (and around) Labor Day Weekend!  Don't miss out: Blair100.com.  Also, should Will know Neil's number?  It's debatable... 
www.Blair100.com
www.WVMineWars.org

Appalachia Meets World Episode 13 - The Appalachian Impact Fund

In this episode, Will and Neil sit down with Brook Smith, a businessman, philanthropist and founder of the Appalachian Impact Fund that is housed in the Foundation for Appalachia Kentucky.  Listen as they discuss the innovative qualities of the fund and the impact it's having on the region.  In addition, Neil has a "layer" and Brook gives a shout out to the "Root Beer Stand!"   
Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky: www.appalachianky.org
Appalachian Impact Fund: www.appalachianimpactfund.org  

Appalachia Meets World Episode 12 - "The Harlan Renaissance"

In this episode Will and Neil sit down with Dr. William "Bill" Turner to discuss his upcoming book, "The Harlan Renaissance: Stories of Black Life in Appalachian Coal Towns."  Listen as Dr. Turner talks about everything from growing up in the cosmopolitan of Lynch, KY to his favorite fishing spot.  Yes, you read that right...the cosmopolitan of Lynch, KY - listen to find out more and to once again dispel some of the misconceptions of Appalachia!    

Appalachia Meets World Episode 11 - Appalachia: Who Cares and So What?

In this episode Will and Neil turn to the scholars as they speak to Dr. Chad Berry, an expert in Appalachian Studies and professor at Berea College.  Dr. Berry's essay, "Appalachia: Who Cares and So What?", speaks directly to the "creation" of Appalachia and how the local is important in learning about the global - or better yet, PLACE MATTERS!  Also, listen to the guys talk about backyard games - straight outta Appalachia!    

Appalachia Meets World Episode 10 - Coalfield Development "From the Ground Up"

In this episode Will and Neil talk to Brandon Dennison, the CEO of Coalfield Development in Southwest West Virginia.  His organization is utilizing an innovative approach in rebuilding the Appalachian economy from the ground up.  Listen to this "doer" discuss the inspiring work they are doing in West Virginia and changing lives through entrepreneurial led workforce development.  Also, 'Beeezos', 'Bayzos', 'Potatoe', 'Potato' - Neil and Will debate the "great" space race.  

Appalachia Meets World Episode 9 - Local Entrepreneur Goes Big (Sandy Backroads)

On the episode Will and Neil talk to an eco-tourism enthusiast and local entrepreneur Gary Wayne Cox.  Gary Wayne discusses his new venture, Big Sandy Backroads, established to prove there IS opportunity in the mountains and to highlight the beauty of Central Appalachia.  Also, listen to find out whose birthday you might have missed.  

Appalachia Meets World Episode 8 - Entrepreneurship in Appalachia (Part 2)

In the follow up episode to Entrepreneurship in Appalachia, Will and Neil talk to Erik Pages, an expert in entrepreneurship development.  He discusses the ins and outs of developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem.  He also speaks of a specific resource for Appalachia ecosystem building,  developed by his firm EntreWorks Consulting.  On a side note, Neil talks about a recent "blow up" he had in his own neighborhood.  Listen and learn!