January is Roadless Month on The Wild Idea. Throughout the month, we’re exploring the landscapes, communities, and ideas shaped by America’s roadless public lands — and what’s at stake as these protections face renewed threats.

Today, Bill Hodge and Anders Reynolds are joined by Kristin Gendzier of the Southern Environmental Law Center to dive into discussion of what the Roadless Rule is, how it protects national forest roadless areas, and why it matters now. Kristin brings a distinctly Southern Appalachian perspective to the conversation, weaving together policy history, personal experience, and the lived reality of communities surrounded by roadless areas. From drinking water and wildlife habitat to recreation and rural economies, she explains how these landscapes quietly support millions of people — often without them realizing it.

The discussion also addresses the rule’s turbulent legal and political history, common misconceptions about wildfire and forest management, and the renewed threat posed by efforts to rescind the rule entirely. Rather than framing the moment solely as a crisis, the episode emphasizes public participation, collective responsibility, and the generational importance of protecting these lands.

Learn more about today's episode, Roadless Month, and learn how you can advocate for your public lands at our website, thewildidea.com.