Continuing Recovery Month! In this episode Neil and Will sit down with the Director of Reentry and Employment Services Branch of the Commonwealth of Kentucky - Mr. Aaron Poynter. Led by Aaron, Kentucky’s Reentry program is getting national attention for its success and rapid adoption. From a Police Officer to Workforce Development, Aaron has built …

It's a Rocky Mountain High with the monthly Economic Recovery Corps Fellows "Spin and Chat!" In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with ERC Fellow Sasha Nelson and Hosts John Bristol with the Routt County Economic Development Partnership and Christine Rambo with the Northwest Colorado Development Council. As a region that has a history of coal pr…

It's National Recovery Month! In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Dr. Daniel Moore and Sarah Laurel, two experts on chronic hepatitis C (HCV) and the link to injection drug use. While not from the region, they speak specifically about the health effects of this in Appalachia. Leading into National Recovery Month in September, the numbers o…

It's the most wonderful time of the year...it's football time in the Mountains! You can smell it in the air! In our annual kickoff to football episode, Neil and Will sit down with an icon in High School Mountain Football lore - Coach John Hines. In a turn of events of the past year, Coach Hines left a storied tradition he built in one small communi…

In this episode - it's totally different! (Sorry for the hiatus last week - a bit of a reprieve for the end of summer) This episode is not like the others...Neil and Will get the tables turned and become the interviewees. Mick flips the script and allows the listeners to get to know Neil and Will a little better and see how they think in general, a…

This episode is a throwback in honor of the last "Country Music Highway Tribute Show" of the year (put on by Shaping Our Appalachian Region - or SOAR)!! The final CMH Tribute Show is taking place in Ashland, KY on August 2nd and 3rd! One of the headliners is an old guest of ours - Corduroy Brown! If you didn't listen to the episode previously, we g…

In this special episode Neil and Will reveal a story published by West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Immigrants were a major part of forming what we now know as Appalachia. The guys venture into Wheeling West Virginia to bring a story to life that has been part of the culture in Wheeling for over 100 years. Take a listen as they describe the twist …

It's the monthly Economic Recovery Corps Fellow "Spin and Chat!" In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with the ERC Fellow Gaby Seltzer and surprise guest Bret Sweet of the City of Antioch, CA. This is the first interview with a Fellow and their Host! Hear them both describe the ERC process and their reasoning behind deciding to pursue the path o…

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Claudean Oakley a past nursing director, naturalist and wellness expert that has written a book "Pastology", about not letting your past predict your future. More specifically, it was an opportunity for her to remind Appalachians, they are becoming highly esteemed; they appreciate their surroundings, cult…

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Lynn Faust a self trained expert on Fireflies...or Lightning Bugs as she prefers to keep it - some would even say she's the "Lightning Bug Lady." From caring for her children in her 30's in a cabin in Elkmont Tennessee to being one of the most reputable firefly experts in the world, Lynn's passion has tak…

In this episode we're having a throwback Friday (while Neil's on vacation) to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday. It's a throwback with DeJuana Thompson as she talks about the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute that enlightens each generation about civil and human rights in Appalachia and beyond. It works to explore our common past and work together…

In this monthly Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow "Spin and Chat," Neil and Will sit down with George Williams - someone who calls overseas home just as much as the states and current Fellow in Cleveland Ohio. Hear from George as he describes his role with the Fund for our Economic Future - a creative space for philanthropic funders and civic le…

This is a "Fall Back Friday" episode celebrating the Laurel Cove Music Festival that is happening this weekend (June 7th and 8th)...if you're near Pineville, KY definitely check it out (although it's sold out this year)! This episode is from last year with Jon Grace, the Bell County Tourism Director and Organizer of the Festival. Take a listen (it …

In this (different) episode you'll hear a piece from "Inside Appalachia" about the Grand March of the 2023 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. You'll also hear an acceptance speech from an "Honorary Director" of the 2024 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival - it might give you an idea of just how people from the community feel about the KMLF. We've spo…

Readin, Rightin, Route 23!! THE COUNTRY MUSIC HIGHWAY! In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Kirsten Wilburn and Kristin Brown Norman of Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) to talk about the Country Music Highway - or Route 23! Kentucky's Country Music Highway has produced more stars per square mile than any stretch of roadway in the world.…

It's almost FESTIVAL SEASON in Appalachia!!! In this episode Will and (sans) Neil sit down with Pineville Schools. Through the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) Program Samantha North and Shannon Elliott applied for a grant through the Smithsonian Institute to allow a group of students to produce a documentary about the Kentucky Mountain Laur…

In this inaugural (and monthly) Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow "Spin and Chat," Neil and Will sit down with Mick Thornton - a self described builder of things and current Fellow in San Juan County, Utah. In a previous episode (episode 139) Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council, explained the purpose …

In this episode Will and (minus) Neil sit down with the "Beattyville Hillbillies!" Donnie Benton and Teresa Mays are the founders of the Backwoods Moonshine Museum in Appalachia Kentucky - a stop on the "Moonshine Trail." While the Bourbon Trail is often thought of when thinking Kentucky, the Moonshine Trail is more on the Appalachian side of the s…

Sorry for missing last week...we had a few technical (and timing) difficulties...but, like BBN (and poltergeist) - WE'RE BACK!! In this episode, Neil and Will throw it back to their favorite Appalachian Food episode of all time, with the "King of Country Ham" - Allan Benton! We also discuss the Appalachian Appetizer Final Four and who was crowned t…

In this episode Neil and Will throwback to a previous "food" episode with Melissa Booth Hall of the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA). First though, they spend some time breaking down the Sweet Sixteen of Appalachian Appetizers! The Final Four has been set, take a listen to find out what has made the list. The guys also talk about how food is a unit…

In this episode, AMW sits down with Mark Hendricks a photo journalist who recently completed a stunning book dedicated to the Appalachian Mountains. In the book - "The Central Appalachians - Mountains of the Chesapeake", Mark dedicates almost a decade of his life to document the amazing aspects of one of the most diverse mountain ranges in the worl…

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Molly Hemstreet the Co-Executive Director of the Industrial Commons - reviving the historic textile district in North Carolina one social enterprise at a time. The Industrial Commons founds and scales employee owned social enterprises and industrial cooperatives, and support frontline workers to build a …

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Dana Kuhnline, a senior program director for Reimagine Appalachia - a broad and inclusive coalition of individuals and organizations based in Appalachia. Hear from Dana as she describes what Reimagine Appalachia is all about and how there efforts are making an impact on the region. While the word "reimagi…

It's Cookie Season Ya'll! In this episode and in celebration of Women's History Month, Neil and Will sit down with Lynne Fugate the CEO of the Girl Scouts of the Appalachians. It's not just about the cookies - hear her talk about the impact the organization makes on young girls and communities. Then take some time and try all the cookies and figure…

It's March, so that means one thing - no, it's not the start of spring - no, it's not daylight savings time (spring forward) - it's getting into "March Madness." In light of the upcoming tournament we are just having a throwback episode this week - with an Appalachian born coaching phenom that came from the mountains and has been on the career coll…

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Emily Hudson the Executive Director and Founder of the Southeast Kentucky African American Museum and Cultural Center (SEKYAAMCC). Born and raised in the hills of Eastern Kentucky, Emily explains what led her away and what eventually brought her back to the place she has always called "home." In light of…

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Alex Weld, the Executive Director of Generation West Virginia - a statewide organization for and by young people who understand that while finding a path isn't easy, it's easier if they navigate the hurdles together. Having several initiatives as a focus, the main goal is to retain and attract young peopl…

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with an expert in international connection and well-being, Nathan Ohle, the President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). He gives his thoughts on the impacts of economic development in general, but also describes what it means to be an economic developer. He also goes a little de…

In this episode, Will, sans Neil, sits down with Dr. Amanda Jo Slone to discuss her new passion project: The Appalachian Way: The Role of Appalachian Identity in Effective Leadership. The project combines her two loves, Leadership and Appalachia. Find out how she thinks about Appalachian Identity and if that is an asset in the development of leader…

In this episode the guys are taking a break...but, not before they take a moment to talk about the legendary Appalachian himself - "Phil!" Take a listen to find out a little more about Phil and all that revolves around him...but don't get mesmerized by the music and hope that it doesn't play on a loop day, after day, after day, after day, after day…

In this episode an Appalachian native shares her life journey of strength after trauma. Brandi Cox's recently released memoir, "In Better Hands An Appalachian Memoir of Healing and Grace," follows a story of sorrow, growth and understanding ultimately finding peace after abandonment, adoption and grief. Hear from Brandi as she describes how Appalac…

It's 2024 Appalachia! In this episode Neil and Will celebrate the beginning of the new year with their favorite episode from 2023! They also welcome a surprise guest to help them bring in the new year - a guest that won't let Neil get a word in otherwise. Take a listen to find out who the special guest is and what episode was the guys favorite in 2…

Happy New Year Countdown! In this episode, Neil and Will recap 2023 in a way you might not have thought of...it's become one of their favorite parts of the episodes, something that has taken on a life of its own. They really just want to use this episode to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! Take a listen, you might hear a favorite appetiz…

In this episode, Neil and Will celebrate Christmas with the new and the old! It's AI vs AMW - you choose which you prefer...from Neil and Will's perspective it's the human element that - "just means more." Merry Christmas y'all and to y'all a good night! Also, don't forget about #AppBiz(s) of the week - the final 4 (or 5) businesses in the final co…

In this episode Will and Neil (or maybe not) sit down with the "Outlaw Scientist" (as coined by AMW) Dr. Savannah Thais, an expert on Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). As a follow up, Dr. Thais defines what AI is and how it is part of our everyday life. Her research goes beyond the data to focus on how AI impacts society and h…

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Rachael Rankin, a lifelong educator in the Appalachian region and current Junior High and High School Principal of the Newton Falls Exempted Village School District in Trumbull County, OH. As an educator passionate about innovation in the classroom, Principal Rankin discusses the integration of Artificial…

In this episode Neil and Will talk about their respective Turkey Days and how this year compared to Turkey Days of old. They also recognize three past guests who are at the pinnacle of their respective sport...football in the mountains! Take a listen as Neil gives a preview of the mountains traveling to the flatlands and his predictions all around.…

Our annual Thanksgiving episode around the dinner table - a place where many stories are told in Appalachia. Take a listen as we give you a little glimpse into our family and the thanks we have this holiday season. Have a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving!De către Appalachia Meets World

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Barb Ewing the CEO of the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) - the #1 University Affiliated Incubator in the World! Incubators are used to give startup businesses and entrepreneurs needed support in order to drive innovation. With a streamlined focus and a dedication to becoming sustainable, YBI has beco…

In this episode Neil and Will just want to honor the men and women who have served - on this Veteran's Day weekend. Thank you for your service and duty to country. Take a listen to hear about some news (or two links) regarding some innovative work regarding Veterans. Also, the guys wanted to replay how it all started for Appalachia Meets World. A t…

In this episode, Neil and Will bring back the past. In honor of Neil's favorite holiday, they are bringing back an old episode as an extension of Halloween. If you didn't listen last year, or if you forgot, take a listen to hear about an Appalachian Tourism Experience and a haunting place - The Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Note: This is a repeat…

In this Halloween episode Neil and Will sit down with Candy Hooten, Director of Operations at the Bell Witch Cave with a personal family connection to the Cave as well. A lot goes on at the Bell Witch property, one of which is being the most haunted places in the U.S. The story goes - a witch (or spirit) haunted the Bell family starting in 1817 and…

"The history of these music and dance traditions is intertwined with the history of the culture of the (Appalachian) region, and an understanding of one sheds a light on the other." (Hoedowns, Reels and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance). In this episode Will and Neil sit down with Phil Jamison, a world renowned musician, da…

In memory of the passing of Loyal Jones. In this follow-up episode on religion in Appalachia Neil and Will sit down with Jared Arnett, a pastor, entrepreneur and leader of "Together for the Mountains" - an organization focused on church planting in Eastern Kentucky and with a mission to mobilize a network of Christian leaders to take their faith ou…

Religion has been one of the strongest cultural forces in the lives of Appalachians. Diverse and pervasive, it influences much of what is considered Appalachian both inside and outside of the region. In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Randy Heady of Jackson County, TN. Randy is a bi-vocational Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson …

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with David Shuster, CEO of Horizon Goodwill Industries in Western Maryland - to learn more about the significant impact Goodwill can have on a community - beyond the "thrift." Hear Dave talk about the workforce development origins of Goodwill and how his particular organization thinks outside the box to feel n…

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with the folks from "Welcoming America" - an organization started to help communities create welcoming policies and share new approaches to inclusion to create and environment where everyone can truly thrive. Hear Rachel Peric and Lola Pak discuss what it means to be a welcoming community and the long term im…

"Because I wanted to...." In this follow up episode, Neil and Will sit down with artist, sculpture, writer, author, mentor and coach - Bridgette Mongeon. Hear her discuss a current project she's working on that has a great deal of historical significance to Appalachia, and more specifically the Appalachian Trail. Take a listen as she describes her …

Energy Cooperatives are not only an important energy provider in smaller, more rural communities, they are a fixture in place making and community development within the communities they service. In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Brent Jackson, the Member Relations Manager for Jackson Energy Cooperative. As an energy cooperative, it's no…

A SMALL TOWN NEVER FORGETS!! In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Deb Brown and Becky McCray, co-founders of Save Your Town! With a focus on smaller communities, they believe small towns can be saved by their own people using their own resources. As small town experts, their organization combats community challenges and specializes in low o…