Appalachia Meets World

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with award winning documentary filmmaker Elaine McMillion Sheldon.  Better known for her Netflix documentaries "Recovery Boys" and "Heroin(e)", she dives into her overall work, why it's important for her to be in Appalachia and how there are bigger issues to worry about than lazy stereotypes.  As a granddaughter, daughter and sister of a coal miner, she also discusses her upcoming documentary, "King Coal", and the immediate need to focus on what's next.  You also don't want to miss her West Virginia trivia skills and how she calls a place she has never lived "home."  Additionally, find out what Neil thinks of acronyms and "incubators" - it's been a while!  Take a listen!

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Kyle Wilson the founder of "Boom Beans" - supreme coffee and an entrepreneurial program teaching Appalachian youth to launch their own opportunities! An entrepreneur himself, listen as he talks about his strong desire to give back to the place he'll always call "home."  While your at it, check out the coffee and help "boom the economy in Appalachia!"  Also, depending on where your from find out what might just "hit a little different" and why some of us are digging out this week.  Don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Boom Beans.  Take a listen!    

Boom Beans: www.boombeans.com

Awesome Inc: www.awesomeinc.org

Appalachian Regional Commission - Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy (Apply today for summer admission - applications due 3/4/22): www.arc.gov/appalachian-entrepreneurship-academy/

Museum of Appalachia: www.museumofappalachia.org

In this last episode of the Appalachian Music series, Neil and Will sit down with singer/songwriter Cody Howard from the "deep dark hills of Eastern Kentucky."  Listen as Cody talks about what inspires his writing and how he learned to appreciate where he's from.  You might also find out what the difference is between "Maters and Skeeters."  Also, Neil will let you in on a new found accessory he has caved on, just in time for this episode!  Don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Higher Ground in Harlan County.  Take a listen!  

Higher Ground in Harlan Kentucky: www.highergroundinharlan.com

The music played in this episode, as listed below, was for entertainment and discussion purposes only and recorded by Cody Howard.

Cody Howard - "Bandits"

Cody Howard - "Mine Town"

Cody Howard - "Warsaw"

Robert Gipe/Cody Howard - "Maters and Skeeters"

Cody Howard - "When I Finally Get Around to 'Livin"

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Terrell Benton a virtuoso of the history of music in The Shoals.  As the "Hit Recording Capital of the World," The Shoals represents the diversity that is found throughout the Appalachian region.  Listen as Terrell describes the Muscle Shoals Sound and the magic that is made in the hallowed halls of the recording studios in the region.  As described by the Rolling Stones,"...The Shoals just inspires you to do it differently."  Also, find out if Neil kept his doors open for the New Year and his fear of the end of the world.  The music played in this episode, as listed below, is for entertainment purposes only and is part of the The Shoals recording history. 

Jimmy Hughes - "Steal Away" (first hit recorded at the current location of FAME studio)

Staple Singers - "I'll Take You There"

Arthur Alexander - "You Better Move On" 

Aretha Franklin - "Respect"

Percy Sledge - "When a Man Loves a Woman"

R. B. Greaves - "Take a Letter Maria"

The Rolling Stones - "Brown Sugar"

Eddie Hinton - "You Got Me Singing" 

Bob Seger - "Old Time Rock N' Roll"

Lynard Skynard - "Sweet Home Alabama"  

Recognition:

Muscle Shoals (documentary) - produced by Stephen M. Badger - official website: www.magpictures.com/muscleshoals/ 

Florence-Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau - www.visitflorenceal.com

In this special New Year's episode Will and Neil sit down with legendary long distance hiker Nimblewill Nomad, the oldest man (at 83 years of age) to through hike the Appalachian Trail.  While others are making New Year's resolutions, Nimblewill lives them everyday through his hiking accomplishments.  Take a listen and hear him discuss his purpose and what keeps him going while on the trail.  Also, find out this year's resolution for Will and Neil and what (new) New Year's tradition Neil has planned for the big day. 

Nimblewill Nomad: www.nimblewillnomad.com

In this special Christmas episode Neil and Will discuss some past traditions and talk of the meaning of "Old Christmas."  To highlight the brief and special episode, Neil gives an Appalachian rendition of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." So...sit back, relax, enjoy a hot cup of cocoa and take a listen as Neil tells the tale of "Twas the Night Before AN APPALACHIAN Christmas!" Happy Holidays!

"Old Christmas" Meaning:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Christmas

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Alex Miller, a bonafide torch carrying champion of traditional country music.  He discusses his ascent from Appalachia to American Idol to gracing the stage at the Ryman Auditorium and with Country Music legends.  Listen as he talks about his roots, his inspiration for music and what he had to do before filming his first music video - you might be surprised.  Don't forget to check out his new single "Don't Let the Barn Door Hit Ya", and his new Christmas single "That's What Christmas is For."  His debut album is to be released in early 2022.  Also, in light of the recent tornado that devastated parts of multiple states, Neil and Will share some information for helping those in need. 

Alex Miller - www.alexmillercountry.com

Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund - www.teamwkyrelieffund.ky.gov

WFPL Tornado Resources List - https://wfpl.org/heres-how-you-can-help-tornado-victims/

Western Kentucky Toy Drive (DEADLINE DECEMBER 18th!) - https://governor.ky.gov/toydrive

KSR Tornado Relief Fund Powered by the Kentucky Chamber Foundation - www.kychamber.com/ksrtornadorelief

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with John Hallberg to talk about the upcoming opening of the Appalachian Dulcimer Museum.  Among other things they discuss the history of the Appalachian Dulcimer and what makes it unique to the region.  Also, Neil and Will debate the greatness of what is The Emmet Otter's Christmas Special.  Don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Appalachian Spirit Folk Instruments. Take a listen!  

Appalachian Dulcimer Museum: www.dulcimermuseum.org

Appalachian Spirit Folk Instruments: www.appalachianspirit.com

The Appalachian School of Luthiery: www.appalachianluthiery.org

Troublesome Creek Stringed Instrument Co.: www.troublesomecreekguitars.com

In this episode, Will and Neil sit down with seven time Grammy nominee Dr. Ted Olson to talk about the history of Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music in the Appalachian region.  Listen as Dr. Olson discusses the origins of the "Birthplace of Country Music," and how place shapes a sound.  He might even give his take on one of Neil's favorites - KC.  In addition, don't forget to check out his newly released limited podcast series - "Sepia Tones: Exploring Black Appalachian Music."  Also, listen to hear what makes Will "tingle."  Don’t forget to check out the App Biz of the week, the Mountain Music Exchange in Pikeville.

Sepia Tones: Exploring Black Appalachian Music - www.buzzsprout.com/1026877/8920127

#AppBiz: Mountain Music Exchange - www.mountainmusicexchange.com

On this special Thanksgiving episode, Neil and Will invite you to their  table where a lot of special memories have been made.  When it comes to storytelling, Appalachia has a rich history of carrying on traditions through this special skill.  The place where this skill is often honed is of course around the table.  Hear from generations of Appalachians to some that have moved to the area only to now call it "home" as well.  Also, is it pe-"caun", PE-"can", or "pee-can"...you decide.  Happy Thanksgiving You'uns...and don't forget the appetizers!