Middle of Everywhere

Hoppy Henton is a Kentucky farmer working the land that’s been in his family for 9 generations.  His talents and passion connect him in a lifelong relationship with the Kentucky Farm Bureau.  In this episode, we learn about his 40-years-long struggle to eliminate the conservative policies in the Farm Bureau’s “secret policy book”.  We also hear from key friends, family, and acquaintances of Hoppy’s— from the Fairness Campaign’s Chris Hartman, to former leaders in the Farm Bureau’s ranks — about this epic battle.

What can a recipe be, besides just a list of ingredients? And what can it mean to the people who cook and eat it? In this episode we explore a Kentucky culinary tradition called “burgoo” and trace the history of the dish. We’ll also meet two talented cooks who weave their Kentucky traditions into their food. What story does a meaty frontier stew have to tell about the Bluegrass state and its people?

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What happens when an atheist stands up for free speech when the government favors Christianity?  Many people in this country think that patriotism and Christianity go hand in hand,  but can a person be a patriot and non-religious? In this episode, Ariel and Austin hear from one feisty and independent man who has devoted his life to crusading for freedom of expression. His journey became world renowned with his lawsuit against the state of Kentucky for denying him the vanity plate IM GOD.  

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Early Kentucky settler, Joseph Perkins Ellis, carried a mystical stone which had been passed down in his family for generations. The faith of the Ellis’ in this “Mad Stone,” along with their Baptist convictions, propelled them to make a good life for themselves and their community in the face of a devastating disease like rabies which the stone was believed to heal. This stone continued to be used up into the 20th century and impacted the lives of many. But did it work? And why did people think it did? And what does this family heirloom mean to those who carried it?

We’re excited to announce our new podcast Middle of Everywhere! Join us to hear big stories from small town America that feature vibrant characters who help us discover these places. Hosted by Ariel Lavery and Austin Carter.

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