Appalachia Meets World

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Chris Worman, founder of Connect Humanity - a nonprofit working with communities to build the internet infrastructure and skills they need to participate fully in a digital society.  As part of an ARC funding grant, Connect Humanity has been tasked to bridge the digital divide in Appalachia, specifically to 50 undeserved communities throughout every sub-region of Appalachia.  Take a listen as Chris describes the important work Connect Humanity does through the world, but more importantly the plans they have for digital equity in Appalachia.  There's a lot of federal funding that will be coming available for communities throughout the country, find out how Connect Humanity will help communities throughout Appalachia plan for capturing this funding and bridging the digital divide.  You might even hear Chris's affinity for meatballs and Neil's week long tribute to his favorite Appalachian of all time - honestly, it might be verging on an obsession.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: National Broadband Resource Hub!

Connect Humanity - www.connecthumanity.fund 

Connect Humanity in Appalachia: Community Application Process - https://connecthumanity.fund/arise/ 

#AppBiz: National Broadband Resource Hub - www.broadbandhub.org 

Appalachian News:

Ramp Article (Pittsburgh Gazette) - www.post-gazette.com/life/recipes/2023/04/10/ramps-wild-leeks-appalachia-pittsburgh/stories/202304030060 

Appalachian HillClimb Series (Backroads of Appalachia) - https://backroadsofappalachia.org/saturday-april-22-is-scca-motorsport-day-in-kentucky/?olink=%2Fnews%2F&otitle=News 

ARC 2023 Annual Conference: Appalachia Rises - www.arc.gov/event/arc-2023-annual-conference/ 

Opportunity Appalachia Investor Convening - https://pheedloop.com/OAInvestorConvening/site/home/ 

In this episode Neil and Will have a conversation with Tom Gellrich of the H2-CCS Network and Co-Organizer of the 2023 Appalachian Renewable Natural Gas Conference.  Renewable Natural Gas or RNG is different in that instead of extracting materials from the earth, it is the conversion of waste and other organic materials into energy - combating climate change along the way.  Take a listen as Tom speaks to the RNG Conference and the opportunities in Appalachia in regards to the growing market.  You also might hear Neil's energy for the episode and how he now has justification in regards to his own waste.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: New Frontier!

Appalachian RNG Conference 2023 - https://rngconferences.com/product/appalachian-rng-conference-2023/ 

New Frontier - www.newfrontierbrand.com/ 

Reclaiming Appalachia - www.reclaimingappalachia.org 

Diversified Energy and ARCH2 proposal - www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/empire-diversified-energy-to-be-included-in-appalachian-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub-application-to-the-department-of-energy-301799945.html 

Take a listen to a teaser of the upcoming episode on Friday.  We just wanted to get a teaser out to talk a little about the upcoming Appalachian RNG Conference on this Wednesday, April 19th.  Check it out to find out a little more...then check back on Friday for the full episode!  

Appalachian RNG Conference 2023 - https://rngconferences.com/product/appalachian-rng-conference-2023/ 

 

In Part 1 of the discussion on "Appalachian Health", Dr. Wykoff discusses his book, "Appalachian Health: Culture, Challenges and Capacity."  On this episode, Part 2, Dr. Wykoff discusses overall healthcare challenges and potential opportunities in Appalachia, and the importance of connecting healthcare with economic prosperity and job creation.  Take a listen to the follow up conversation and hear the guys get a little more personal with Dr. Wykoff and the significance of "staying" and making East Tennessee State Universities College of Public Health the "best little college of Public Health in the entire country."  You also might hear about a recommendation of Neil's and what he thinks about fine wine and expensive shoes - not to mention his new tagline for Easter.  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Hazard Coffee Company!

"Appalachian Health: Culture, Challenges and Capacity" - www.kentuckypress.com/9780813155579/appalachianhealth/ 

East Tennessee State University College of Public Health - www.etsu.edu/cph/ 

Hazard Coffee Company - www.hazardcoffeecompany.com 

ARC Appalachian Envisioned Roadshow: Stop #4 - Building Appalachia's Infrastructure: www.arc.gov/event/stop-4-building-appalachias-infrastructure/

ARC Appalachian Leadership Institute - www.arc.gov/leadership/#how_to_apply   

Appalachian Heritage Week: Lees McRae College - www.lmc.edu/about/news-center/articles/2023/appalachian-heritage-celebration-puts-new-twist-on-beloved-annual-event.htm 

Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2) submits multi-state application - www.battelle.org/insights/newsroom/press-release-details/appalachian-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub-submits-multi-state-application-for-the-department-of-energy's-hydrogen-hub 

Appalachian RNG Conference - https://rngconferences.com/product/appalachian-rng-conference-2023/ 

"Thriving Business Climate - Retail Growing in Several Eastern Kentucky Downtowns" (Lexington Herald-Leader) - www.kentucky.com/news/business/article272617374.html?mc_cid=ea3cc0ed76&mc_eid=773823b633 

Cafe Lola Bistro (Johnson City, TN) - https://cafelolabistro.com/ 

 

 

 

In this episode Neil and Will were honored to sit down with Dr. Randy Wykoff - one of, if not THE face of rural health in the entire country.  As the founding dean of East Tennessee State's College of Public Health, Dr. Wykoff is on a mission to make ETSU one of the best little College of Public Health in the world.  His recent book (as co-editor) "Appalachian Health: Culture, Challenges and Capacity" speaks to the importance of health's intersection with social, political and economic factors to improve overall mortality in the region.  In this part 1 (of 2), take a listen as Dr. Wykoff dives into the book and discusses the significance of the practice of public health in the region, and all underserved communities.    You might even hear how Neil just might get his Appalachian Card pulled - it may or may not have something to do with "little stinkers."  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Appalachian Nursing Academy; and Lindera Farms! 

"If you're having health problems, I fell bad for you son - the region has 99 problems, but this episode ain't one."

"Appalachian Health: Culture, Challenges and Capacity" - www.kentuckypress.com/9780813155579/appalachian-health/ 

East Tennessee State University College of Public Health - www.etsu.edu/cph/ 

Appalachian Nursing Academy (SOAR) - https://soar-ky.org/ana/  

Lindera Farms - www.linderafarms.com 

Appalachian Rises: ARC Annual Conference 2023 - www.arc.gov/news/arc-co-chairs-gayle-manchin-&-kentucky-governor-andy-beshear-announce-2023-arc-annual-conference-location-and-theme/ 

ARC Appalachian Envisioned Roadshow: Stop #4 Community Infrastructure - www.arc.gov/roadshow/ 

West Virginia Ramp Festivals - https://wvexplorer.com/recreation/agritourism/ramp-dinners-festivals/ 

Ramp Tramp Festival (Polk County, TN) - www.ramptrampfestival.com 

StinkFest: The Wild Ramp (Huntington, WV) - https://wildramp.org/event/stinkfest-annual-celebration-of-ramps/ 

Upshur County Public Library 28th Annual Ramp Dinner: An Appalachian Extravaganza (Upshur County, WV) - www.eventbrite.com/e/28th-annual-ramp-dinner-tickets-551725655287 

Rainbows and Ramps (Cherokee, TN) - https://visitcherokeenc.com/events/rainbows-and-ramps/ 

Teach for America Appalachia - www.teachforamerica.org/where-we-work/appalachia 

In this episode it hits close to "home" with Will and Neil.  They sit down with David Ledford the President and CEO of the Appalachian Wildlife Foundation to talk about the current project that is - Boone's Ridge!  Located in the heart of central Appalachia, partially on abandoned mine land, this project is more than just a natural habitat.  Take a listen as Mr. Ledford explains the phased approach of the project and what it will consist of and what impact it will make on the region.  If for nothing else, listen as he describes the anticipated gondola that will be part of the overall area - is something you don't often get to be a part of in this area.  As suggested, it's time to quit planning and talking about "what if" and just doing it!  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Sauced!  

Boone's Ridge - www.boonesridge.com 

Sauced - www.saucedcrafted.com 

BRIGHT Kentucky - www.leadershipky.org/programs/bright-kentucky-5/about-bright-kentucky-23/ 

Appalachian Community Grant Program - www.development.ohio.gov/community/governors-office-of-appalachia/appalachian-community-grant-program 

Ohio Round 1 of the ACGP (Press) - www.governor.ohio.gov/media/news-and-media/governor-dewine-lt-governor-husted-announc-first-projects-funded-through-new-appalachian-community-grant-program-03202023 

Blotchy Bass Syndrome (Press) - www.wjhl.com/outdoors-appalachia/have-you-seen-blotchy-bass-while-fishing-in-tennessee-and-virginia/ 

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Jose Alfaro, the CEO of CO.STARTERS - an organization equipping communities with robust programs to grow local small businesses.  Through a community based approach, this Appalachian organization has outgrown the "borders" to consist of a network of success stories throughout the world.  Take a listen to hear Jose discuss CO.STARTERS practical and comprehensible approach to entrepreneurial development so business owners can move forward with their goals.  With a dedicated footprint in Appalachia, CO.STARTERS is developing a ecosystem of communities to drive sustainable impacts throughout the region - hear how they are dedicated to one community at a time!  You might also hear Neil's indifference towards sharks and bears - oh my!  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz (and CO.STARTERS success story) of the week: CPRWrap!  

CO.STARTERS - www.costarters.co

CPRWrap - www.cprwrap.com 

Cocaine Bear (Daily Yonder) - www.dailyyonder.com/cocaine-bear-a-true-rural-story-mined-for-movie-madness/2023/03/09/ 

Sharknado (IMDb) - www.imdb.com/title/tt2724064/ 

Canton NC: Pactiv-Evergreen Mill (Story: "Smoky Mountain News") - www.smokymountainnews.com/news/item/35242-canton-mill-s-closing-means-uncertainty-for-county-region 

 

"There was a million heavenly things to see and a million spectacular ways to die." - Grandma (Emma) Gatewood

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with storyteller, Bette Lou Higgins to talk about the extraordinary life of an Appalachian legend that you may have never heard of - Grandma Gatewood!  The art of storytelling has long been a cornerstone of the cultural foundation in Appalachia...not only for entertainment but to remember the past.  Take a listen as Bette Lou describes the nuances of Grandma's life and the importance of preserving her story and sharing it with anyone that will listen.  A longtime legend of the Appalachia trail, her inspiring story, once heard, is one that will not be forgotten.  You might even hear why Neil proclaims March as one of the greatest months.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: River City Manufacturing; and The Artisan Shoppe and Studio!

Grandma Gatewood: www.grandmagatewood.com 

Eden Valley Enterprises: www.edenvalleyenterprises.org 

2023 Women's Storytelling Festival - www.bettersaidthandone.com/womens-festival/ 

River City Manufacturing - www.rivercitymanufacturing.com 

The Artisan Shoppe and Studio - www.theartisanshoppe.org 

"Edible Mountain" - www.wvpublic.org/wvpb-tv-series-edible-mountain-premieres-monday-march-20/ 

Bon Appetit "Welcome to Appalachia" - www.bonappetit.com/story/visit-appalachia-package 

Monuments Across Appalachia Virginia - www.liberalarts.vt.edu/research-centers/maav.html 

The Nature Conservancy receives grant - www.nature.org/en-us/newsroom/rk-mellon-appalachians-investment-pennsylvania/#:~:text=The%20Nature%20Conservancy%20(TNC)%20announced,the%20broader%20Central%20Appalachians%20landscape 

 

The AppalachiaFest: From Surviving to Thriving!  In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Dr. Michele Morrone (Conference Chair - Appalachian Studies Association) and Dr. Tiffany Arnold (Program Chair - Appalachian Studies Association), both professors at Ohio University, as well as Dr. Ricardo Nazario, current president of the Appalachian Studies Association.  The Appalachian Studies Association (ASA) annual conference is taking place in Athens, OH at the campus of Ohio University on March 16-19 for the first time in its 46 year history.  The ASA is an incredibly important aspect to the scholarly endeavors throughout the region, but also focuses on the region as a whole to foster quality of life, democratic participation and appreciation of Appalachian experiences regionally, nationally and internationally.  Take a listen as they describe the work that has gone into organizing the upcoming conference and their thoughts on the significance of the gathering (and of the association itself)...and if you're in Athens on March 16-19, check it out!  During the episode, you might even hear Will break down his favorite indulgent day, and Neil's memories of just that.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Passion Works Studio; Casa Nueva; and West End Ciderhouse and Distillery!     Appalachian Studies Association: www.appalachianstudies.org        AppalachiaFest 2023: www.appalachianstudies.org/2023-conference    Passion Works Studio: www.passionworks.org    Casa Nueva: www.casanueva.com    West End Ciderhouse: www.athenswestend.com/ciderhouse    West End Distillery: www.athenswestend.com/distillery    Hill Spirits (Music): www.hillspirits.bandcamp.com       -"Cold Frosty Mornin"      -"Seasonal Gal"      -"Steepletown"      

The AppalachiaFest: From Surviving to Thriving!  In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Dr. Michele Morrone (Conference Chair - Appalachian Studies Association) and Dr. Tiffany Arnold (Program Chair - Appalachian Studies Association), both professors at Ohio University, as well as Dr. Ricardo Nazario, current president of the Appalachian Studies Association.  The Appalachian Studies Association (ASA) annual conference is taking place in Athens, OH at the campus of Ohio University on March 16-19 for the first time in its 46 year history.  The ASA is an incredibly important aspect to the scholarly endeavors throughout the region, but also focuses on the region as a whole to foster quality of life, democratic participation and appreciation of Appalachian experiences regionally, nationally and internationally.  Take a listen as they describe the work that has gone into organizing the upcoming conference and their thoughts on the significance of the gathering (and of the association itself)...and if you're in Athens on March 16-19, check it out!  During the episode, you might even hear Will break down his favorite indulgent day, and Neil's memories of just that.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Passion Works Studio; Casa Nueva; and West End Ciderhouse and Distillery!     Appalachian Studies Association: www.appalachianstudies.org         AppalachiaFest 2023: www.appalachianstudies.org/2023-conference     Passion Works Studio: www.passionworks.org     Casa Nueva: www.casanueva.com     West End Ciderhouse: www.athenswestend.com/ciderhouse     West End Distillery: www.athenswestend.com/distillery     Hill Spirits (Music): www.hillspirits.bandcamp.com        -"Cold Frosty Mornin"      -"Seasonal Gal"      -"Steepletown"