Inside Appalachia tells the stories of our people, and how they live today. Host Jessica Lilly leads us on an audio tour of our rich history, our food, our music and our culture.

In 2016, a wildfire escaped the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It killed 14 people, injured dozens more and destroyed parts of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We talk with an investigative journalist who has new information on the incident.

Also, four decades ago rice seeds from Laos crossed the ocean to California and made their way to a family of Hmong farmers in North Carolina.

And the Appalachian trail has been exhaustively hiked, explored and written about, but it’s still got a few secrets left.

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

In 2016, a wildfire escaped the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It killed 14 people, injured dozens more and destroyed parts of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We talk with an investigative journalist who has new information on the incident.
Also, four decades ago rice seeds from Laos crossed the ocean to California and made their way to a family of Hmong farmers in North Carolina.
And the Appalachian trail has been exhaustively hiked, explored and written about, but it’s still got a few secrets left.
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk with investigative reporter Tyler Whetstone about the 2016 wildfire that damaged Gatlrinburg and killed 14. We visit a rice farm in western North Carolina and hear about efforts to put an endangered salamander in West Virginia on the endangered species list.

The Gatlinburg Fire Of 2016, Inside Appalachia

This week, a pair of former miners found love shoveling coal and shaped a life making wooden spoons. We learn about treenware.

Also, NASCAR Hall of Famer Leonard Wood shares stories, and a bit of advice.

And, group bike rides are a way to socialize and get outside. But here in Appalachia, newcomers are met with steep hills.

This week, a pair of former miners found love shoveling coal and shaped a life making wooden spoons. We learn about treenware.
Also, NASCAR Hall of Famer Leonard Wood shares stories, and a bit of advice.
And, group bike rides are a way to socialize and get outside. But here in Appalachia, newcomers are met with steep hills.

This week, we visit with a couple who met in a coal mine and became woodcarvers. We talk NASCAR with Leonard Wood and take a spin around the hilly streets of Morgantown on a bicyle.

A Tale Of Treenware And A NASCAR Legend, Inside Appalachia

Spring wildflowers are in bloom, and some of the most common species play an important role in herbal medicine. This week, we learn about some of the ways people use violets.

What’s your favorite style of egg roll? An acclaimed, out-of-the-way restaurant in Pounding Mill, Virginia bends culinary genres and uses an unexpected ingredient. 

And, more and more school boards are pulling books from library shelves. We’ll speak with a reporter in a Virginia county where 57 titles were yanked.

Spring wildflowers are in bloom, and some of the most common species play an important role in herbal medicine. This week, we learn about some of the ways people use violets.
What’s your favorite style of egg roll? An acclaimed, out-of-the-way restaurant in Pounding Mill, Virginia bends culinary genres and uses an unexpected ingredient. 
And, more and more school boards are pulling books from library shelves. We’ll speak with a reporter in a Virginia county where 57 titles were yanked.

This week, we learn about some of the uses for violets outside of the flower garden and talk about a book ban in Virginia.

The Herbal Magic Of Violets And A Book Ban In Virginia, Inside Appalachia

This week on Inside Appalachia, we’re talking about traditional ballads -- how they tell stories and connect us to the past. 

These old tunes can mean so much. They can tap into difficult emotions and give feelings space to be heard. Some songs may even be too uncomfortable to sing.

In this special episode with guest co-host, ballad singer Saro Lynch-Thomason, we explore songs about lawbreaking folk heroes, runaway trains and murder ballads.

This week on Inside Appalachia, we’re talking about traditional ballads -- how they tell stories and connect us to the past. 
These old tunes can mean so much. They can tap into difficult emotions and give feelings space to be heard. Some songs may even be too uncomfortable to sing.
In this special episode with guest co-host, ballad singer Saro Lynch-Thomason, we explore songs about lawbreaking folk heroes, runaway trains and murder ballads.

This week, we present one of our most popular episodes. It's all about traditional ballands and how they connect us to the past.

ENCORE: True Stories Behind Folk Heroes, Runaway Trains And Murder Ballads

This week, we visit the Seeing Hand Association. They bring together people who are visually impaired to learn the craft of chair caning.  

Corporate greed has been gobbling up newspapers for years. Now, some of those same companies are taking a bite out of mobile home parks. They’re raising rents and letting repairs slide.

And, as the Mountain Valley Pipeline nears completion, people who live near it say government officials are ignoring their concerns about pollution.

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit the Seeing Hand Association. They bring together people who are visually impaired to learn the craft of chair caning.  
Corporate greed has been gobbling up newspapers for years. Now, some of those same companies are taking a bite out of mobile home parks. They’re raising rents and letting repairs slide.
And, as the Mountain Valley Pipeline nears completion, people who live near it say government officials are ignoring their concerns about pollution.
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we learn about the Seeing Hand Association and a fight between residents of a mobile home park and the company that bought up the land.

Chair Caning And A Housing Fight, Inside Appalachia

Red Terry’s property in Bent Mountain, Virginia, is in the path of the Mountain Valley Pipeline. She says the place was beautiful, but she's worried about the dangers of the pipeline not far from her home.

Plus, almost everybody has a favorite cup or coffee mug, but how far would you go to replace it? One woman would go pretty far.

And… we explore an effort in western Virginia to make old-time music more available to Black musicians.

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Red Terry’s property in Bent Mountain, Virginia, is in the path of the Mountain Valley Pipeline. She says the place was beautiful, but she's worried about the dangers of the pipeline not far from her home.
Plus, almost everybody has a favorite cup or coffee mug, but how far would you go to replace it? One woman would go pretty far.
And… we explore an effort in western Virginia to make old-time music more available to Black musicians.
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, host Mason Adams visits with a protester he interviewed in the early days of the Mountain Valley Pipeline's construction and a renaissance fair potter gets her mojo back. 

Remembering And Revisiting Resistance To The Mountain Valley Pipeline, Inside Appalachia

This week, we’re revisiting our episode “What Is Appalachia?” from December 2021. Appalachia connects mountainous parts of the South, the Midwest, the Rust belt and even the Northeast. The Appalachian Regional Commission defined the boundaries for Appalachia in 1965 with the creation of the Appalachian Regional Commision, a part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. It was legislation that sought to expand social welfare, and some localities were eager for the money, while others resisted the designation. The boundaries and definition of Appalachia can now only be changed by an act of Congress.

Politically, Appalachia encompasses 423 counties across 13 states — and West Virginia’s the only state entirely inside the region.

That leaves so much room for geographic and cultural variation, as well as many different views on what Appalachia really is.

For Inside Appalachia, we turned our entire episode over to the question, “What is Appalachia?” With stories from Mississippi to Pittsburgh, we asked people across our region whether they consider themselves to be Appalachian.

This week, we’re revisiting our episode “What Is Appalachia?” from December 2021. Appalachia connects mountainous parts of the South, the Midwest, the Rust belt and even the Northeast. The Appalachian Regional Commission defined the boundaries for Appalachia in 1965 with the creation of the Appalachian Regional Commision, a part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. It was legislation that sought to expand social welfare, and some localities were eager for the money, while others resisted the designation. The boundaries and definition of Appalachia can now only be changed by an act of Congress.
Politically, Appalachia encompasses 423 counties across 13 states — and West Virginia’s the only state entirely inside the region.
That leaves so much room for geographic and cultural variation, as well as many different views on what Appalachia really is.
For Inside Appalachia, we turned our entire episode over to the question, “What is Appalachia?” With stories from Mississippi to Pittsburgh, we asked people across our region whether they consider themselves to be Appalachian.

This week, we dive into the discussion about what is Appalachia in this encore special.

Encore: What Is Appalachia? We Asked People From Around The Region. Here’s What They Said

Inside Appalachia remembers Travis Stimeling. The author, musician and educator left a deep mark on Appalachian culture, and the people who practice and document it.  

And grab your dancing shoes and learn about a movement to make square dance calling more inclusive.

Plus, it’s not just you. There are more deer than ever these days. A writer explores the long, complicated entwinement of people and our wild kin.

Inside Appalachia remembers Travis Stimeling. The author, musician and educator left a deep mark on Appalachian culture, and the people who practice and document it.  
And grab your dancing shoes and learn about a movement to make square dance calling more inclusive.
Plus, it’s not just you. There are more deer than ever these days. A writer explores the long, complicated entwinement of people and our wild kin.

This week, we remember educator, author and Appalachian music champion Travis Stimeling. We also learn more about our relationship with deer.

Remembering Travis Stimeling And The Age Of Deer, Inside Appalachia

For nearly a century, some of the best wood carvers in Appalachia have trained at a folk school in North Carolina. The Brasstown Carvers still welcome newcomers to come learn the craft.

In 2021, Willie Carver was named Kentucky’s Teacher of the Year. Then he left his job over homophobia and became an activist and celebrated poet. 

And, the zine Porch Beers chronicles the author’s life in Appalachia — including a move from Huntington to Chattanooga, and back again.

You're hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

For nearly a century, some of the best wood carvers in Appalachia have trained at a folk school in North Carolina. The Brasstown Carvers still welcome newcomers to come learn the craft.
In 2021, Willie Carver was named Kentucky’s Teacher of the Year. Then he left his job over homophobia and became an activist and celebrated poet. 
And, the zine Porch Beers chronicles the author’s life in Appalachia — including a move from Huntington to Chattanooga, and back again.
You're hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we meet the Brasstown Carvers, speak with Kentucky educator and poet Willie Carver and take a trip to the Applachian neighborhood of Cabbagetown.

Brasstown Carvers, Willie Carver And Cabbagetown, Inside Appalachia

Step shows are a tradition at many historically Black universities, including schools in Appalachia. We hear about one that’s part of West Virginia State University’s annual homecoming celebration. 

Abandoned industrial sites have long been a magnet for people to explore and turn into not-at-all-legal hangout spots, but some come with hidden dangers. We learn about the danger at Fairmont Brine, a site in West Virginia that processed liquid used in hydraulic fracking.  

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Step shows are a tradition at many historically Black universities, including schools in Appalachia. We hear about one that’s part of West Virginia State University’s annual homecoming celebration. 
Abandoned industrial sites have long been a magnet for people to explore and turn into not-at-all-legal hangout spots, but some come with hidden dangers. We learn about the danger at Fairmont Brine, a site in West Virginia that processed liquid used in hydraulic fracking.  
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit WVSU during homecoming and experience step dancing and talk to Justin Nobel about radioactive waste at fracking brine sites and teenagers.

Step Dancing At WVSU And Radioactive Brine, Inside Appalachia

Appalachians love to compete. Whether it’s recreational league softball, a turkey calling contest or workplace chili cookoffs, Mountain folks are in it to win it.

But there’s more to competing than just winning or losing.

In this show, we’ll meet competitors who are also keepers of beloved Appalachian traditions.

Appalachians love to compete. Whether it’s recreational league softball, a turkey calling contest or workplace chili cookoffs, Mountain folks are in it to win it.
But there’s more to competing than just winning or losing.
In this show, we’ll meet competitors who are also keepers of beloved Appalachian traditions.

This week, we explore the vigorous and varied competitive spirit of Appalachia.

Encore: The Love Of Competition, Inside Appalachia

When the farming start-up, AppHarvest, launched in Kentucky, it promised good jobs in coal country — but some workers called it a grueling hell on earth.

We also explore an island of Japanese culture in West Virginia called Yama. 

And fish fries have been a staple in Charleston, West Virginia’s Black community for years. We visit one and learn a little about what’s made them so popular.

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

When the farming start-up, AppHarvest, launched in Kentucky, it promised good jobs in coal country — but some workers called it a grueling hell on earth.
We also explore an island of Japanese culture in West Virginia called Yama. 
And fish fries have been a staple in Charleston, West Virginia’s Black community for years. We visit one and learn a little about what’s made them so popular.
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, AppHarvest began with big ideas for the future of farming and Appalachia, but came crashing down. We also explore a restaurant in West Virginia that's a home away from home for Japanese students and we look into fish frys in Charleston, West Virginia.

The Fall Of AppHarvest, Inside Appalachia

Alleghany and Covington high schools were rivals for decades. But now, they’ve merged. This week, we head to a home football game and learn how it’s going. 

Also, the daughter of a legendary guitar maker didn’t set out to take up her father’s craft — but she’s found it irresistible.

And, we take a trip to the mushroom capital of the U.S.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Alleghany and Covington high schools were rivals for decades. But now, they’ve merged. This week, we head to a home football game and learn how it’s going. 
Also, the daughter of a legendary guitar maker didn’t set out to take up her father’s craft — but she’s found it irresistible.
And, we take a trip to the mushroom capital of the U.S.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit former football rivals who've embraced a new school and new football team. We also meet a second generation luthier and sample frijoles charros.

Cougars Football and EJ Henderson Guitars, Inside Appalachia

Black lung disease is back. In fact, it never went away. Now, younger and younger miners are living with a particularly nasty form of black lung disease. 

Regulators and the coal industry have known about the problem for decades — but they’ve been slow to respond. 

One reporter asks, “What would happen if thousands of workers in any other industry got sick and died just because of where they worked?” 

This week, we’re talking about the black lung epidemic, Inside Appalachia.

Black lung disease is back. In fact, it never went away. Now, younger and younger miners are living with a particularly nasty form of black lung disease. 
Regulators and the coal industry have known about the problem for decades — but they’ve been slow to respond. 
One reporter asks, “What would happen if thousands of workers in any other industry got sick and died just because of where they worked?” 
This week, we’re talking about the black lung epidemic, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we explore the resurgence of black lung.

Encore: The Rise of Black Lung, Inside Appalachia

Since 2019, Inside Appalachia has brought you stories from our <a href="https://wvpublic.org/podcasts/inside-appalachia/folkways/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Folkways Reporting Project</a>. 

Folkways was created to boost awareness of Appalachian folk traditions and how they’re passed between people. In 2023, we added 25 stories to our growing archive that explore diverse arts, culture, food and people of Appalachia. 

This week, look back at some of the past year’s Folkways highlights.

Since 2019, Inside Appalachia has brought you stories from our Folkways Reporting Project. 
Folkways was created to boost awareness of Appalachian folk traditions and how they’re passed between people. In 2023, we added 25 stories to our growing archive that explore diverse arts, culture, food and people of Appalachia. 
This week, look back at some of the past year’s Folkways highlights.

This week, we look back at some of our Folkways Reporter Project stories. We visit the Flat 5 Studio, hang out with a taxidermist and learn about African Face Jugs.

Folkways Highlights Of 2023, Inside Appalachia

Since 1967, Foxfire has been a storehouse of traditional Appalachian knowledge that still helps people today.

It continues to preserve music and history, but part of Foxfire’s heritage has been recording the stories of Appalachian women. 

This week, Inside Appalachia, explores Foxfire –its past, present and future.

Since 1967, Foxfire has been a storehouse of traditional Appalachian knowledge that still helps people today.
It continues to preserve music and history, but part of Foxfire’s heritage has been recording the stories of Appalachian women. 
This week, Inside Appalachia, explores Foxfire –its past, present and future.

This week, we talk about the past, present and future of Foxfire. 

Celebrating Foxfire, Inside Appalachia

This week, we return to some of our favorite stories from 2023. Appalachia saw challenge and calamity, but people found joy … and strength.

We learn about how an old family tradition is connecting with a new generation –and we find unexpected views and surprises just off the interstate.

This week, we return to some of our favorite stories from 2023. Appalachia saw challenge and calamity, but people found joy … and strength.
We learn about how an old family tradition is connecting with a new generation –and we find unexpected views and surprises just off the interstate.

This week, we look back at some highlights from Inside Appalachia, including a few favorite stories. 

Looking Back at 2023, Inside Appalachia

This week, we go a-wassailing in Asheville, North Carolina. It’s kind of like Christmas caroling, with a kick.

We also visit Kentucky’s Minnie Adkins. She’s had a long career as a folk artist, which began with a pocket knife. 

And, family recipes bring generations together. But what happens when you’ve got grandma’s potato candy recipe, and it doesn’t have exact measurements? 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we go a-wassailing in Asheville, North Carolina. It’s kind of like Christmas caroling, with a kick.
We also visit Kentucky’s Minnie Adkins. She’s had a long career as a folk artist, which began with a pocket knife. 
And, family recipes bring generations together. But what happens when you’ve got grandma’s potato candy recipe, and it doesn’t have exact measurements? 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we learn about wassailing in Asheville, North Carolina, visit with a folk art matriarch in eastern Kentucky and try to get the recipe for Grandma's potato candy.

Wassailing, Folk Art and Grandma's Potato Candy, Inside Appalachia

This week, rock climbers with disabilities have found a home in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge, which offers some pumpy crags...

Climbers have also been working to make the New River Gorge more inclusive.

And a master craftsman, who makes one of a kind whitewater paddles remembers some advice.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, rock climbers with disabilities have found a home in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge, which offers some pumpy crags...
Climbers have also been working to make the New River Gorge more inclusive.
And a master craftsman, who makes one of a kind whitewater paddles remembers some advice.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

.This week, we learn about inclusive climbing, weeding out racist and sexist names in rock climing and meet a master craftsman.

The Climbing Climate and Paddle Making, Inside Appalachia

This week, punk music photographer Chelse Warren takes us into the pit. We hop a tiny train to discover the miniature wonders of a West Virginia model railroad. Then, we journey to eastern Kentucky, where they’re reclaiming their bootlegging heritage –along a new moonshine trail.

This week, punk music photographer Chelse Warren takes us into the pit. We hop a tiny train to discover the miniature wonders of a West Virginia model railroad. Then, we journey to eastern Kentucky, where they’re reclaiming their bootlegging heritage –along a new moonshine trail.

This week, we talk with Open Head Takes Photos, a hardcore/punk music photographer, learn about the struggles of a model train club in West Virginia and hear about Kentucky's Moonshine trail.

Open Head Takes Photos, Model Trains And The Kentucky Moonshine Trail, Inside Appalachia

This week, we usher in the season of lights with our holiday show from 2022. James Beard-nominated West Virginia chefs Mike Costello and Amy Dawson serve up special dishes with stories behind them. We visit an old-fashioned toy shop whose future was uncertain after its owners died – but there’s a twist. 

We also share a few memories of Christmas past, which may or may not resemble yours. 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we usher in the season of lights with our holiday show from 2022. James Beard-nominated West Virginia chefs Mike Costello and Amy Dawson serve up special dishes with stories behind them. We visit an old-fashioned toy shop whose future was uncertain after its owners died – but there’s a twist. 
We also share a few memories of Christmas past, which may or may not resemble yours. 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we revisit our 2022 holiday show, which included special dishes and holiday wishes.

A 2022 Holiday Encore, Inside Appalachia

This week, we pick up a little light reading at the Johnson City Zine Fest.

And… Grab your dancing shoes and learn about a movement to make square dance calling more inclusive.

Also, the perils of playing the spoons.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we pick up a little light reading at the Johnson City Zine Fest.
And… Grab your dancing shoes and learn about a movement to make square dance calling more inclusive.
Also, the perils of playing the spoons.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we travel to the Johnson City Zine Fest, learn about a movement to make square dancing more inclusive and discuss playng the spoons.

Inclusive Square Dancing, Zine Fest And Playing The Spoons, Inside Appalachia

This week, Karly Hartzman of Asheville indie rock band Wednesday, talks about songwriting, place and spending a lot of time with a band on tour. 

We also meet Emily Jones Hudson, who started a workshop to try and reinvigorate quilting in her community in Kentucky. 

Also, we check in with the Alabama Astronaut and learn about a uniquely Appalachian form of art – religious music heard only in snake-handling churches.

This week, Karly Hartzman of Asheville indie rock band Wednesday, talks about songwriting, place and spending a lot of time with a band on tour. 
We also meet Emily Jones Hudson, who started a workshop to try and reinvigorate quilting in her community in Kentucky. 
Also, we check in with the Alabama Astronaut and learn about a uniquely Appalachian form of art – religious music heard only in snake-handling churches.

This week, we talk with Karly Hartzman from the rock band Wednesday, meet a woman who is trying to patch together more quilters and we visit with the Alabama Astronaut.

The Rock Band Wednesday, Quilting and The Moonshine Messiah, Inside Appalachia

This week, we head to the woods and take a master class in foraging for wild mushrooms.

We also break bread and talk soul food with Xavier Oglesby, who is passing on generations of kitchen wisdom to his niece, Brooklynn.

And we’ll hear about old-time music legend Aunt Jeannie Wilson. A marker has been set near the place where people used to hear her play.

These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we head to the woods and take a master class in foraging for wild mushrooms.
We also break bread and talk soul food with Xavier Oglesby, who is passing on generations of kitchen wisdom to his niece, Brooklynn.
And we’ll hear about old-time music legend Aunt Jeannie Wilson. A marker has been set near the place where people used to hear her play.
These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we hunt for wild mushrooms and learn about soul food. We also learn about a new marker acknowleding an old-time music icon.

Mushroom Mania, Soul Food and Aunt Jeanie, Inside Appalachia

We'll meet a man who makes wooden turkey calls, but these aren’t just any turkey calls. Painter Brian Aliff doesn’t call himself an artist, but he intricately paints his turkey calls, which are now collectors’ items.

We'll also meet people who make wooden paddles by hand and custom-decorate each one, and a man who repairs cuckoo clocks.

Finally, we’ll travel to some of the most beautiful spots in Appalachia to find wildflowers, like Dolly Sods and the Canaan Valley of West Virginia. And we wonder — are these areas becoming too popular?

These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

We'll meet a man who makes wooden turkey calls, but these aren’t just any turkey calls. Painter Brian Aliff doesn’t call himself an artist, but he intricately paints his turkey calls, which are now collectors’ items.
We'll also meet people who make wooden paddles by hand and custom-decorate each one, and a man who repairs cuckoo clocks.
Finally, we’ll travel to some of the most beautiful spots in Appalachia to find wildflowers, like Dolly Sods and the Canaan Valley of West Virginia. And we wonder — are these areas becoming too popular?
These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we explore wildlowers, traditional arts and turkey calls.

ENCORE: Wildflowers, Paddle Makers, Turkey Calls — And More Inside Appalachia

Just in time for Halloween, we have a suite of spooky tales to make your skin crawl. We talk science fiction with Roanoke, Virginia-based writer and publisher Mike Allen, hear tales of the supernatural and learn about spiritualists coming to West Virginia. You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Just in time for Halloween, we have a suite of spooky tales to make your skin crawl. We talk science fiction with Roanoke, Virginia-based writer and publisher Mike Allen, hear tales of the supernatural and learn about spiritualists coming to West Virginia. You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we discuss Appalachian science fiction and horror with Roanoke based publisher, Mike Allen, hear stories of the supernatural and learn about the spiritualist movement in West Virginia.

Spooky Tales And Sci-Fi, Inside Appalachia

Can the internet rebuild Appalachia? We ask sci-fi novelist and tech writer Cory Doctorow.  

Also, fish fries have been a staple in Charleston, West Virginia’s Black community for generations. We learn more about them.

And, hop on board the Cass Scenic Railroad for a visit with the people who keep the steam trains running.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Can the internet rebuild Appalachia? We ask sci-fi novelist and tech writer Cory Doctorow.  
Also, fish fries have been a staple in Charleston, West Virginia’s Black community for generations. We learn more about them.
And, hop on board the Cass Scenic Railroad for a visit with the people who keep the steam trains running.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week,we discuss technology with writer and digital activist Cory Doctorow, learn about fish fries in Charleston, WV and talk with Appalchian writer Anne Pancake.

Fish Fry Tradition, Ann Pancake And The Internet, Inside Appalachia

This week, Rae Garringer felt isolated growing up and thought they were the only queer person in a small town. But they learned otherwise. Now they are collecting and sharing the stories of rural LGBTQ people from across the country.

Also, surface mining changes the landscape in a way that makes flooding worse. And there’s no easy fix. 

And we meet an Appalachian village witch, who wonders: How come we don’t hear about more female cryptids? Why isn’t there a Mothwoman?

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, Rae Garringer felt isolated growing up and thought they were the only queer person in a small town. But they learned otherwise. Now they are collecting and sharing the stories of rural LGBTQ people from across the country.
Also, surface mining changes the landscape in a way that makes flooding worse. And there’s no easy fix. 
And we meet an Appalachian village witch, who wonders: How come we don’t hear about more female cryptids? Why isn’t there a Mothwoman?
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, WV Native Rae Garringer tells us about their project to record the stories of LGBTQ people in rural areas and we talk with an Appalachian Village Witch.

 Rural LGBTQ Voices And An Appalachian Village Witch, Inside Appalachia

This week, we talk to Howard Berkes and learn more about the rise of black lung cases in Appalachia.

The Rise Of Advanced Black Lung, Inside Appalachia

This week, a Pittsburgh artist channels the Steel City’s mythology and struggles — into tarot cards. 

Western North Carolina author Ron Rash shares his thoughts on writing about Appalachians.

And we hear about efforts in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to return a young bald eagle to the wild.

These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a Pittsburgh artist channels the Steel City’s mythology and struggles — into tarot cards. 
Western North Carolina author Ron Rash shares his thoughts on writing about Appalachians.
And we hear about efforts in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to return a young bald eagle to the wild.
These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, Tarot cards tell us about the lore and spirit of Pittsburgh. We also talk with writer Ron Rash about Appalachia and growing old.

Appalachian Tarot Cards And Ron Rash, Inside Appalachia

Appalachians are often called mountaineers — but are they also "pioneers?" A new documentary reckons with what it means… to be a pioneer.

In Michigan, an Appalachian mountain man competes in a championship tournament, for skipping stones — and we wade into a mountain wetland to search for one of the region’s most elusive creatures. 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Appalachians are often called mountaineers — but are they also "pioneers?" A new documentary reckons with what it means… to be a pioneer.
In Michigan, an Appalachian mountain man competes in a championship tournament, for skipping stones — and we wade into a mountain wetland to search for one of the region’s most elusive creatures. 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk about the pioneering spirit of Appalachia in a new film, look for bog turtles and meet a champion rock skipper.

O Pioneer, Turtle Travels And Throwing Rocks, Inside Appalachia

This week, we’re revisiting our episode “What Is Appalachia?” from December 2021. Appalachia connects mountainous parts of the South, the Midwest, the Rust belt and even the Northeast. The Appalachian Regional Commission defined the boundaries for Appalachia in 1965 with the creation of the Appalachian Regional Commision, a part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. It was legislation that sought to expand social welfare, and some localities were eager for the money, while others resisted the designation. The boundaries and definition of Appalachia can now only be changed by an act of Congress.

Politically, Appalachia encompasses 423 counties across 13 states — and West Virginia’s the only state entirely inside the region.

That leaves so much room for geographic and cultural variation, as well as many different views on what Appalachia really is. 

For Inside Appalachia, we turned our entire episode over to the question, “What is Appalachia?” With stories from Mississippi to Pittsburgh, we asked people across our region whether they consider themselves to be Appalachian.

This week, we’re revisiting our episode “What Is Appalachia?” from December 2021. Appalachia connects mountainous parts of the South, the Midwest, the Rust belt and even the Northeast. The Appalachian Regional Commission defined the boundaries for Appalachia in 1965 with the creation of the Appalachian Regional Commision, a part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. It was legislation that sought to expand social welfare, and some localities were eager for the money, while others resisted the designation. The boundaries and definition of Appalachia can now only be changed by an act of Congress.
Politically, Appalachia encompasses 423 counties across 13 states — and West Virginia’s the only state entirely inside the region.
That leaves so much room for geographic and cultural variation, as well as many different views on what Appalachia really is. 
For Inside Appalachia, we turned our entire episode over to the question, “What is Appalachia?” With stories from Mississippi to Pittsburgh, we asked people across our region whether they consider themselves to be Appalachian.

Rev. George Mills Dickerson of Tazewell, Virginia was born in the years after slavery ended. He’s remembered today through his poetry.

And a new wave of black lung disease is ravaging Appalachia. We’ll hear more from a black lung town hall in Whitesburg, Kentucky. Coal miners have their own thoughts about black lung, too.

Rev. George Mills Dickerson of Tazewell, Virginia was born in the years after slavery ended. He’s remembered today through his poetry.
And a new wave of black lung disease is ravaging Appalachia. We’ll hear more from a black lung town hall in Whitesburg, Kentucky. Coal miners have their own thoughts about black lung, too.

This week, we hear the poetry of the Dickerson family which speaks of the African-American experience in Western Virginia for most of the 20th Century and we hear about the resurgene of black lung.

Celebrating A Tradition Of Poets And Discussing The Resurgence Of Black Lung, Inside Appalachia

This week, a Virginia Tech researcher challenges deeply held ideas about the purity of natural springs.

Also, meet the folks behind Angelos Old World Italian Sausage. They still use a family recipe that’s been handed down from generation to generation for over a century. Customers love it.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a Virginia Tech researcher challenges deeply held ideas about the purity of natural springs.
Also, meet the folks behind Angelos Old World Italian Sausage. They still use a family recipe that’s been handed down from generation to generation for over a century. Customers love it.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we learn about how the sausage got made for Angelos Old World Italian Sausage, hear about water troubles we didn't expect and take a trip to the "Peerless City."

Family Recipes, Water Trouble and "Peerless City," Inside Appalachia

This week, Inside Appalachia drops by Flat Five Studio in Salem, Virginia. It had a reputation for recording bluegrass bands, but caught a big break in the early 1990s when the Dave Matthews Band needed a quiet place to record its debut album.

We also learn a little about primordial forests. A patch of woods in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was recently inducted into the Old Growth Forest Network.

And we visit a small nonprofit company in West Virginia that’s making solar powered light kits for families in war-torn Ukraine.

This week, Inside Appalachia drops by Flat Five Studio in Salem, Virginia. It had a reputation for recording bluegrass bands, but caught a big break in the early 1990s when the Dave Matthews Band needed a quiet place to record its debut album.
We also learn a little about primordial forests. A patch of woods in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was recently inducted into the Old Growth Forest Network.
And we visit a small nonprofit company in West Virginia that’s making solar powered light kits for families in war-torn Ukraine.

This week, we visit Flat Five Studio in Salem, Virginia, take a trip to newly protected old growth forest in West Virginia and follow the conversation about cuts at WVU.

Flat Five Studio, Old Growth Forests And Trouble at WVU, Inside Appalachia

If you’re hungry for a pepperoni roll in West Virginia, you can find one at just about any gas station, but how did they get so popular? 

In Pennsylvania, the lure of one particular sweet treat gives hikers on the Appalachian Trail a break on their journey and a challenge that requires a strong stomach. 

We also "spill the tea" on a classic roadside attraction that’s been around for generations.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

If you’re hungry for a pepperoni roll in West Virginia, you can find one at just about any gas station, but how did they get so popular? 
In Pennsylvania, the lure of one particular sweet treat gives hikers on the Appalachian Trail a break on their journey and a challenge that requires a strong stomach. 
We also "spill the tea" on a classic roadside attraction that’s been around for generations.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we learn more about the lore of the pepperoni roll in West Virginia, visit with hikers who gobble half gallons of ice cream and take a trip to the World's Largest Teapot. 

Pepperoni Rolls, Ice Cream and The World's Largest Teapot, Inside Appalachia

This week, we visit with West Virginia trappers to learn about the fur trade in the 21st Century.

We also meet a county fair champion who keeps racking up the blue ribbons and has released a cookbook of some of her favorites.

And we hear an update on the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Construction has begun again, but some people wonder if it’s even needed.

These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit with West Virginia trappers to learn about the fur trade in the 21st Century.
We also meet a county fair champion who keeps racking up the blue ribbons and has released a cookbook of some of her favorites.
And we hear an update on the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Construction has begun again, but some people wonder if it’s even needed.
These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit with West Virginia trappers to learn about the fur trade in the 21st Century.   We also meet a county fair champion who keeps racking up the blue ribbons and has released a cookbook of some of her favorites.   And we hear an update on the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Construction has begun again, but some people wonder if it’s even needed.  These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Fur Trapping In W.Va. And A Blue Ribbon Winner, Inside Appalachia

Flooding is a recurring problem across Appalachia. This week, we’re taking stock, and looking back on floods that have devastated parts of West Virginia and Kentucky.

We explore some of the reasons for floods, as well as the aftermath and the slow recovery that often follows after disaster.

It’s not all gloom. Even in our hardest moments, there’s always hope. 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Flooding is a recurring problem across Appalachia. This week, we’re taking stock, and looking back on floods that have devastated parts of West Virginia and Kentucky.
We explore some of the reasons for floods, as well as the aftermath and the slow recovery that often follows after disaster.
It’s not all gloom. Even in our hardest moments, there’s always hope. 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, Inside Appalachia revisits flood stories from 2016 and 2022. We also look at flood recovering and trying to fix some of the reasons why floods happen in some communities.

Remembering Floods And Recovering From Disaster, Inside Appalachia

This week, a Ukrainian musician reflects on what music means during wartime.

And there’s a growing number of a certain kind of blood-sucking arachnid — and diseases that come with it. 

We also sit in on one of the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a Ukrainian musician reflects on what music means during wartime.
And there’s a growing number of a certain kind of blood-sucking arachnid — and diseases that come with it. 
We also sit in on one of the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a Ukrainian musician reflects on what music means during wartime.  And there’s a growing number of a certain kind of blood-sucking arachnid — and diseases that come with it.   We also sit in on one of the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.  You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Following Up With A Ukrainian Musician And Smoky Mountain Firefly Magic, Inside Appalachia

This week, we visit a farm in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania that can grow on one acre what other farms grow on 100 acres.

We also hear about a podcast that remembers the "Back to the Land" movement of the 1970s and ‘80s – and a mysterious disappearance.

And, we meet a team of scientists that found dozens of new millipedes across Appalachia. They named one species after a pop star. 

These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit a farm in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania that can grow on one acre what other farms grow on 100 acres.
We also hear about a podcast that remembers the "Back to the Land" movement of the 1970s and ‘80s – and a mysterious disappearance.
And, we meet a team of scientists that found dozens of new millipedes across Appalachia. They named one species after a pop star. 
These stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk to the creators of a true crime podcast about a missing person from Morgantown. We hear about verticle farming and a millipede named for one of the biggest popstars on the planet. 

Encore: Millipedes And Taylor Swift, Inside Appalachia

This week, we visit a cemetery in Bluefield, Virginia and learn how racial segregation followed some people to the grave.

We also hear from Neema Avashia, author of the celebrated memoir, "Another Appalachia: Coming Up Queer And Indian In A Mountain Place." 

And we remember Hershel “Woody” Williams. The West Virginia native was America’s last living World War II Medal of Honor winner. He died last summer at the age of 98.

You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit a cemetery in Bluefield, Virginia and learn how racial segregation followed some people to the grave.
We also hear from Neema Avashia, author of the celebrated memoir, "Another Appalachia: Coming Up Queer And Indian In A Mountain Place." 
And we remember Hershel “Woody” Williams. The West Virginia native was America’s last living World War II Medal of Honor winner. He died last summer at the age of 98.
You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we visit a Virginia cemetery that suffered from neglect during segregation. We also speak with author Neema Avashia and remember WWII hero Woody Williams.

Remembering Woody Williams And Volunteers Save Segregated Cemetery, Inside Appalachia

This week, we meet a craftsman who builds exquisite, handmade fly rods and shares his love of fishing with others.

We also talk about Appalachia’s nurse shortage. Experts say tackling racism could help attract and keep more nurses.

We also hear stories about Appalachian baseball and listen to the story of how a minor league team in Tennessee traded its shortstop — for a turkey.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we meet a craftsman who builds exquisite, handmade fly rods and shares his love of fishing with others.
We also talk about Appalachia’s nurse shortage. Experts say tackling racism could help attract and keep more nurses.
We also hear stories about Appalachian baseball and listen to the story of how a minor league team in Tennessee traded its shortstop — for a turkey.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we spent time with a mastercraftsman who makes old-style fly fishing rods. We learn about West Virginia's path to statehood and talk baseball with minor league announer Tim Hagerty.

Old School Fly Fishing Rods And Minor League Baseball Lore, Inside Appalachia

Inside Appalachia loves books and writers –and if you’re looking for summer book recommendations, we’ve got a bunch. It’s our summer reading episode, featuring some of our favorite notable author interviews from over the past several months. 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Inside Appalachia loves books and writers –and if you’re looking for summer book recommendations, we’ve got a bunch. It’s our summer reading episode, featuring some of our favorite notable author interviews from over the past several months. 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk books, writing and more with Appalachian authors and poets.

Summer Reading Suggestions, Inside Appalachia

This week, we’re joined by Lilly Knoepp, regional reporter at Blue Ridge Public Radio in Western North Carolina.

Boom and bust cycles for coal, timber and textiles are nothing new to Appalachia. Today we’re seeing another industry struggle –local journalism. 

Some newspapers have scaled back or disappeared entirely, but journalism isn’t dying. Journalists are adapting and some are reinventing what they do.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we’re joined by Lilly Knoepp, regional reporter at Blue Ridge Public Radio in Western North Carolina.
Boom and bust cycles for coal, timber and textiles are nothing new to Appalachia. Today we’re seeing another industry struggle –local journalism. 
Some newspapers have scaled back or disappeared entirely, but journalism isn’t dying. Journalists are adapting and some are reinventing what they do.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we look at struggles with local journalism and how journalists and media companies are adapting. We also visit with the creator of The Porch Beers zine.

The Changing Media Landscape, Inside Appalachia

This week, we head to the meadows and woods of West Virginia to catch the buzz on beekeeping. And, it’s been over six years since Kentucky artist Lacy Hale designed her iconic “No Hate in My Holler” screenprint. Appalachians are still telling her how much they identify with its message. We also take a ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad and explore some one-of-a-kind getaways in West Virginia. You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we head to the meadows and woods of West Virginia to catch the buzz on beekeeping. And, it’s been over six years since Kentucky artist Lacy Hale designed her iconic “No Hate in My Holler” screenprint. Appalachians are still telling her how much they identify with its message. We also take a ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad and explore some one-of-a-kind getaways in West Virginia. You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we learn about beekeeping in West Virginia, talk with artist Lacy Hale and find out about the migration of armadillos to Appalachia

The Buzz About Bees and No Hate in My Hollar, Inside Appalachia

This week… Drop of Sun Studios in Asheville, North Carolina has put out some of the hottest indie rock records of the year. We talked with one of its co-founders.

We also visit the Allegheny Highlands, where Appalachia’s maple syrup traditions are changing with the times.

And, poet Lacy Snapp introduces us to east Tennessee’s poetry scene.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week… Drop of Sun Studios in Asheville, North Carolina has put out some of the hottest indie rock records of the year. We talked with one of its co-founders.
We also visit the Allegheny Highlands, where Appalachia’s maple syrup traditions are changing with the times.
And, poet Lacy Snapp introduces us to east Tennessee’s poetry scene.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk with one of the founders of Drop of Sun Studios in Asheville, NC and learn about the evolving syrup business along the West Virginia/Virginia border.

Drop of Sun Studios and Appalachian Syrup, Inside Appalachia

This week, a high school football game, a street festival, and a kids' classroom are all settings in a new film about how coal mining shapes Appalachian culture.

We also learn about the results of a new survey showing alarming mental health trends in Appalachia’s LGBTQ community.

And we meet a taxidermist in Yadkin County, North Carolina who was just a teenager when she found her calling.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a high school football game, a street festival, and a kids' classroom are all settings in a new film about how coal mining shapes Appalachian culture.
We also learn about the results of a new survey showing alarming mental health trends in Appalachia’s LGBTQ community.
And we meet a taxidermist in Yadkin County, North Carolina who was just a teenager when she found her calling.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we talk to the producers of "King Coal," a documentary by Elaine McMillion Sheldon. We also visit a taxidermist in North Carolina and learn about why this season's allergies might be worse than usual.

The Reign Of 'King Coal,' Inside Appalachia


        This week, we learn about the history of African Face Jars in America from the middle of the 19th Century to today. We also get an update on flood recovery in eastern Kentucky and talk with West Virginia poet Doug Van Gundy.
      

The African Art of Face Jugs, Inside Appalachia

This week on Inside Appalachia, we’re talking about traditional ballads — how they tell stories and connect us to the past.

These old tunes can mean so much. They can tap into difficult emotions and give feelings space to be heard. Some songs may even be too uncomfortable to sing. In this special episode with guest co-host, ballad singer Saro Lynch-Thomason, we explore songs about lawbreaking folk heroes, runaway trains and murder ballads.

This week on Inside Appalachia, we’re talking about traditional ballads — how they tell stories and connect us to the past.
These old tunes can mean so much. They can tap into difficult emotions and give feelings space to be heard. Some songs may even be too uncomfortable to sing. In this special episode with guest co-host, ballad singer Saro Lynch-Thomason, we explore songs about lawbreaking folk heroes, runaway trains and murder ballads.

This week, we talk about traditional ballads and the stories that connect us to the past.

Encore: True Stories Behind Folk Heroes, Runaway Trains And Murder Ballads

This week, a southern Ohio college writing class recently learned about the idea of Appalachian identity and then told us what they thought. Kentucky has a new poet laureate. We listen back to a 2020 conversation with author Silas House, about growing up in the mountains. And in Harlan Kentucky, a mural sparked strong opinions over possums.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, a southern Ohio college writing class recently learned about the idea of Appalachian identity and then told us what they thought. Kentucky has a new poet laureate. We listen back to a 2020 conversation with author Silas House, about growing up in the mountains. And in Harlan Kentucky, a mural sparked strong opinions over possums.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we meet a class that included Inside Appalachia in a writing project. We consider the banjo's past, present and future --and we talk about a mural in Kentucky that caused a stir.

A Class Project Discusses Being Inside Appalachia

This week, we speak with the author of a new book about grief rituals and how they’re practiced here in the mountains.

We also talk with podcaster Abe Partridge about an Appalachian art that goes unheard by most people – the religious music of snake handling churches. 

And, a new study recently found a majority of Americans are not on track to comfortably pay for retirement. We checked in with the National Council on Aging about preparing for the end of our working lives. 

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we speak with the author of a new book about grief rituals and how they’re practiced here in the mountains.
We also talk with podcaster Abe Partridge about an Appalachian art that goes unheard by most people – the religious music of snake handling churches. 
And, a new study recently found a majority of Americans are not on track to comfortably pay for retirement. We checked in with the National Council on Aging about preparing for the end of our working lives. 
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week on Inside Appalachia, we speak with an author about grief rituals, a podcaster about the religious music of snake handling churches, and we explore best practices to prepare for retirement.

Grief Rituals And The Alabama Astronaut, Inside Appalachia

This week, we listen back to three award-winning Folkways stories from last year. First, we visit a luthier’s shop, where old musical instruments get new life.

We also take a ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad and meet the expert crew who keeps its antique trains running.

And we learn what draws people from hours away to Floyd, Virginia’s weekly Friday Night Jamboree.

You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week, we listen back to three award-winning Folkways stories from last year. First, we visit a luthier’s shop, where old musical instruments get new life.
We also take a ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad and meet the expert crew who keeps its antique trains running.
And we learn what draws people from hours away to Floyd, Virginia’s weekly Friday Night Jamboree.
You’ll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.