Appalachia Meets World

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 

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with naturalist and historical interpreter with the Cleveland Metroparks - Foster Brown.  Foster and the Metroparks are having a summer camp in Northeast, OH titled - Appalachian Lifestyles Camp - for "hands on learning about the life and art of the Appalachian culture."  As a camp dedicated to the Appalachian culture, taking place outside of Appalachia, Foster explains the purpose of the camp and how he developed a sincere appreciation for the cultural heritage of the region. Take a listen as he details what the campers will be doing to better understand some of the skills developed throughout Appalachia and how he will be sure to dispel some of the misconceptions people have about the region.  As we often go outside the region to better understand other cultures as well as bringing our own culture to other areas, we understand the importance of finding commonalities among a world of misunderstood differences.  Foster and the Metroparks are trying to also bridge that cultural divide to bring outside cultures to the campers of Northeast OH - and seemingly doing a fantastic job of it.  You might even hear Will's age dilemma with the American Girl Doll and the guys thoughts on "Skunk Mating Season" (or at least Siri's thoughts).  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: The Harbor Perk!

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Dr. John Kvach, a historian hired as the Executive Director of the Singing River Trail - a 200+ mile greenway system being developed in Appalachia Alabama.  Why a historian?  John explains how the past plays a large role in the establishment of the trail and the overall impacts of a greenway system.  Take a listen as he describes the benefits that go well beyond the physical - to include the economic, emotional and even spiritual.  Greenways are not unique in and of themselves, but as John describes being able to blend the natural assets with the man-made assets is a way to make the system unique to the surrounding area.  The overall economic impact alone can be a huge boost to the local economy, especially in the more remote rural areas that often get left behind.  You might even hear the guys talk about a local Appalachian kid going global (hint - Gate City Represent) and how Neil prefers a side by side to walking.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: The Gingerhead Bakery!

Singing River Trail: www.singingrivertrail.com ; www.singingrivertrail.org

The Gingerhead Bakery: www.gingerheadbakery.com 

Greenbrier Valley Theatre: www.gvtheatre.org 

ARC POWER Initiative: www.arc.gov/power/ 

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with President and CEO of Appalachian Community Capital Donna Gambrell.  They discuss, among other things, access to capital in Appalachia and the impact Community Development Finance Organizations (CDFIs) can have on the region.  As part of her organization they also talk about an important initiative, Opportunity Appalachia.  An initiative that is providing needed funds to help attract investment to critical projects in undeserved areas of Appalachia - especially in regards to revitalization of  downtown's and critical impact areas in towns throughout the region.  Take a listen as Ms. Gambrell discusses her expertise and the impact "patient" capital can have on entrepreneurs in the Appalachian entrepreneurial ecosystem.  You might also hear who would win if Neil and Will were to go head-to-head and what they might replace Valentine's Day with.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week - SoundSpace @ Rabbit's!

Appalachian Community Capital: www.appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org 

Opportunity Appalachia: www.appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/oa-program/ 

SoundSpace @Rabbit's: www.soundspaceavl.com/ 

National Entrepreneurship Week: www.natleshipweek.org/ 

Invest Appalachia: www.investappalachia.org 

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with DeJuana Thompson the President and CEO of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.  A self proclaimed "global citizen," Ms. Thompson, born and raised in Birmingham is bringing her own history with the Institute and her forward thinking to the mission - "to enlighten each generation about civil and human rights by exploring our common past and working together in the present to build a better future."  Take a listen as she describes the importance of the Institute and what we all can learn from a visit.  As a well rounded individual that wears many hats, she shows her passion for the City of Birmingham and her dedication to remembering (not forgetting) the past while forging a new path for the future.  You might even hear her embrace appetizers, much to Will and Neil's delight...and Neil's thought's on "balloons" and Google Earth!  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: CREED63!   

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: www.bcri.org

CREED63: www.creed63.com 

Black History Month: www.blackhistorymonth.gov 

Woke Vote: www.wokevote.us 

Think Rubix and Co.: www.thinkrubix.com 

ARC Appalachian STEM Academy:  www.arc.gov/arc-oak-ridge-summer-program/ 

ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy: www.arc.gov/appalachian-entrepreneurship-academy/ 

ARC POWER Grant RFP: www.arc.gov/power/ 

Our Common Nature: An Appalachian Celebration with Yo-Yo Ma and Friends: www.ourcommonnature.org 

When you think of the most diverse Cities (per capita) in all of New York, Western New York doesn't typically come to mind - Jamestown is reshaping that narrative.  In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with the Mayor of Jamestown - Mayor Eddie Sundquist.  Mayor Sundquist, having recently announced his bid for reelection, discusses how diversity and inclusion plays a key role in his administration as well as in building a more resilient Jamestown.  Take a listen as he talks about the challenges he has dealt with during his current term as well as the assets of Jamestown and how they have created a national center based on one of the more famous assets - hint "I Love Lucy!"  You might even hear how Western New Yorkers identify with being Appalachian and why Neil has been in mourning for most of the week.  Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: The National Comedy Center! 

Mayor Eddie Sundquist:   www.jamestownny.gov/mayors-office/ 

The National Comedy Center: www.comedycenter.org/ 

Lucy Desi Museum: www.lucy-desi.com/ 

ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy: www.arc.gov/appalachian-entrepreneurship-academy/ 

ARC Appalachian STEM Academy: www.arc.gov/arc-oak-ridge-summer-program/ 

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club: www.groundhog.org/ 

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Miss West Virginia and 3rd Runner-Up in the Miss America Pageant, Elizabeth Lynch.  Beyond the "pageantry", however, Ms. Lynch is utilizing her national platform to advocate for Agriculture, more specifically Appalachian Agriculture!  Set to pursue a PhD in Parisitology in the fall, she is currently utilizing her time representing the Appalachian region through her "Growing Up, Growing Ag: Advocating for American Agriculture" social impact initiative...spreading the Appalachian gospel everywhere she goes.  Take a listen as she dispels the misconceptions of the pageant industry and speaks to her motivation of pursuing Miss America in the first place -- hint, it was for the money y'all!  You might also hear Neil's top (gun) pick for best picture at the upcoming Oscars - and hear Ms. Lynch educate him on his own poultry industry challenges.  Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Red Hawk Rise Organics; and Sprouting Farms!

Elizabeth Lynch (Miss America Platform): www.missamerica.org/2023-candidates/2022-miss-west-virginia/ 

Elizabeth Lynch - Farmer Friday: www.youtube.com/channel/UCidoccwJlghZ06ozumQ2sAg 

Red Hawk Rise Organics: www.redhawkriseorganics.com 

Sprouting Farms: www.sproutingfarms.org 

"King Coal" Teaser (Elaine McMillion Sheldon): www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5YEbyKo9KU 

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with the newly elected Appalachian Regional Commission State Co-Chair and Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky - Governor Andy Beshear.  Among other things, looking ahead they discuss the Governor's 2023 goals for Eastern Kentucky and all of Appalachia.  Throughout his administration he has been "punched in the mouth" on multiple occasions not typical of a Governor, much less in a single term.  Hear how he dealt with those challenges with sincere empathy and compassion  for individual families and communities in a place he calls "home." Take a listen to hear his thoughts on his role as State Co-Chair and the duty for just investments in the entire region.  You might even hear his thoughts on deviled eggs and why Neil thinks he has "joined his team."  Also, don't forget the # AppBiz of the week: The General Store at Pine Mountain Crossing!

Appalachian Regional Commission State Co-Chair Governor Andy Beshear: www.arc.gov/staff/governor-andy-beshear/ 

The General Store at Pine Mountain Crossing: www.pinemtncrossing.com 

This Light of Ours - Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement (Book): www.upress.state.ms.us/Books/T/This-Light-of-Ours 

Appalachian STEM Academy: www.arc.gov/arc-oak-ridge-summer-program/ 

Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy: www.arc.gov/appalachian-entrepreneurship-academy/ 

ARC INSPIRE Initiative: www.arc.gov/sud/ 

ARC ARISE Award: www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-6-3-million-to-bolster-broadband-access-across-50-communities-in-every-appalachian-subregion/ 

Appalachian Mountain Brewery/Bojangles Hard Sweet Tea: www.amb.beer/bojangles_hard_sweet_tea_is_here/ 

Cleveland Metroparks - Appalachian Lifestyles Camp: www.clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/calendar/2023/oe-summer-camps-2023/brecksville-reservation/appalachian-lifestyles-camp-13-years-over