St. Albans Historical Society

https://www.stalbanshistory.com/

Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/people/St-Albans-Historical-Society-WV/100064751854315/?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=DxwyYsBbIRvYDsB1&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BT2tfW6GB%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/st.albanshistoricalsocietywv/

This week on Kinfolk: Stories of Community and Connection, we’re in Saint Albans, West Virginia, exploring the rich history and vibrant spirit of the town with Rachael and Jackson from the Saint Albans Historical Society. From ghost stories and historic homes to major events like Train Days and Yak Fest, this episode dives into how the past shapes the present. We talk about the town’s rise in the 1800s, its nickname as the “Town of Millionaires,” and how the Historical Society works to preserve its legacy.

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk, host Dan engages with C.J. Mitchell, a talented musician from West Virginia, discussing his journey through music, identity, and personal growth. C.J. shares his experiences of moving from a small town to Pittsburgh, the impact of his upbringing on his music, and the significance of his songs, particularly 'Permission 2 Love' and 'To Be Yours.' The conversation delves into themes of authenticity, the importance of following one's dreams, and the power of music as a means of expression and connection.

C.J. Mitchell

https://linktr.ee/cjthesongwriter

Erika Kikola

https://www.tiktok.com/@whilefloriansleeps?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/erika.kikola/

Summary

In this episode, Erica Kikola shares her journey as a budding interior designer rooted in her Appalachian heritage. She discusses her move from West Virginia to Pennsylvania, the impact of the opioid epidemic on her life, and how she channels her creativity into her designs. Erica emphasizes the importance of embracing one's roots, the healing power of creativity, and the significance of creating a welcoming home environment for her family. She also explores the concepts of maximalism and sustainable living through thrifting and upcycling, while encouraging self-expression in her children.

Hippie's Daughter

https://thehippiesdaughter.com/

https://www.instagram.com/hippies_daughter/

https://www.tiktok.com/@hippies_daughter?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk, Dan speaks with Elizabeth Elswick, the creative mind behind Hippie's Daughter. They explore Elizabeth's artistic journey, her connection to Appalachian culture, and the challenges of running a creative business. Elizabeth shares her inspirations, the importance of family heritage, and her experiences with burnout. The conversation also touches on the emotional connections people have with her art and the future of her brand.

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk, host Dan speaks with Jenna Reed Hill, an artist and educator from West Virginia. Jenna shares her journey of integrating local culture into her art, the impact of her work on the community, and her experiences as a small business owner. The conversation delves into the importance of creativity in education, tips for teachers on engaging students and the community, and how personal experiences, including grief, have shaped her artistic expression. Jenna emphasizes the significance of storytelling through art and the ways in which she honors her late mother through her creative endeavors.

Head to the Hills Studio

https://www.instagram.com/headtothehillsstudio/?igsh=cG9qODQycHExcHV5#

Illustrated by Jenna Reed Hill, written by Cheryl Ware

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_fkhrzxyDj/?igsh=MXZ6dWx2N2V3Y2d3YQ%3D%3D

Black Light Art Show

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C59o7x0M0nE/?igsh=YjJ3c2FkZzllbXA5

Host Notes

I ran into some tech issues however I did not want to leave the rapid fire questions out!

1. Where’s your favorite spot in West Virginia?

• PipestemState Park

2. What is one art tool or utensil that you couldn’t live without?

• Lino Cutter

3. When you’re needing a boost of creativity, what is your go-to song?

• Anything by Lana Del Rey

Helvetia Restoration and Development

https://www.facebook.com/HelvetiaRestoration/

Calendar of Events

https://www.helvetiawv.com/

Fasnacht 2025

https://www.eventcreate.com/e/fasnacht-2025

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk, Dan and Clara Lehmann discuss the rich cultural heritage of Helvetia, West Virginia, focusing on the Fasnacht festival. Clara shares her experiences growing up in Helvetia and her role in the Helvetia Restoration and Development Organization, which aims to preserve the community's history and traditions. The conversation delves into the significance of Fasnacht, its history, and the importance of community involvement in cultural preservation. Clara also highlights the unique aspects of the festival, including the creation of masks and the communal spirit of the event.

Host Notes

- Caption typo in the intro for "masks"

- Caption typo "Lehmann"

Sister Witches Crafting Company

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/sisterwitchescraftingcompany/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/p/Sister-Witches-Crafting-Company-100076033834938/

TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@sisterwitchescraftingco

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk: Stories of Community and Connection, Dan sits down with Shaena Crossland, owner of Sister Witches Crafting Company in Davis, West Virginia. Shaena shares her journey as an artist and small business owner, how she crafts magic from nature, and the inspiration behind creating a welcoming, inclusive space for all spiritual paths. From foraging Appalachian flora to building a community altar, Shaena’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, connection, and honoring traditions. Tune in to discover the magic waiting in your own backyard.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Kinfolk: Stories of Community and Connection. Shaena’s story is a wonderful reminder of the beauty in embracing creativity, honoring traditions, and fostering community. If you loved this conversation, please take a moment to follow and rate the show on your favorite podcast platform it helps us grow and share more incredible Appalachian stories.

You can also connect with me on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, where I share more about local businesses, festivals, and hidden gems in Appalachia. Got a small business or know someone with a story to share? Send me an email at [email protected].

Be Kind Ceramics

Website

https://www.bekindceramics.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor28MT7hTvnbTZ7Arklni8evHmhF1NMnsur5wV3P2NXtX3ntLYe

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/p/Be-Kind-Ceramics-100087669111278/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/bekindceramics/

Summary

In this episode, Liz Raber shares her journey with Be Kind Ceramics, emphasizing the importance of kindness in community building. She discusses her experiences in Wheeling, the local artisan scene, and her efforts to give back through art. Liz also explains the differences between pottery and ceramics, and shares her excitement for upcoming projects and creations.

Head over to our instagram page for the giveaway!

https://www.instagram.com/kinfolkpodcastconnect/

What are some ways you give back to your community? Let us know in the comments!

Mountain State Mysteries

https://www.mountainstatemysteriespodcast.com/

Appalachian Ghost Tours

https://www.instagram.com/appalachianghosttours/?igsh=MWdpb20wdzF3eWxibg%3D%3D#

Summary

This week on Kinfolk: Stories of Community and Connection, I sit down with Mark, the creator and host of Mountain State Mysteries and co-founder of Appalachian Ghost Tours. We dive into his passion for uncovering West Virginia’s true-crime cases and haunted history, from chilling unsolved mysteries to ghost stories with surprising twists. Mark shares how he got started with podcasting, his love for storytelling, and what it’s like visiting some of Appalachia’s most haunted spots.

What’s the spookiest thing you’ve experienced in Appalachia? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️

Host Notes

Summary

In this episode of Kinfolk, Dan speaks with Jeanne Stevenson, co-founder of Echo Lit and author of Lost Moon Holler. They discuss Jeanne's journey in preserving Appalachian heritage through art and literature, the influence of her grandmother on her life and work, and the importance of educating the younger generation about local flora and fauna. The conversation highlights the role of community engagement in fostering creativity and the significance of storytelling in connecting with one's roots.

ECHO-LIT

https://www.echo-lit.com/

https://www.facebook.com/arttoeducate/

https://www.instagram.com/echoliteraryarts/?hl=en

Lost Moon Holler

https://www.echo-lit.com/lost-moon-holler-book/