You're invited to our Halloween Live Party!

Have you ever seen the hilariously terrible, offensively affectionate, 1988 self-proclaimed shitty movie Curse of the Queerwolf? It's one of those movies you spend the first 15 minutes trying to decide which slur it's calling you, only to realize it was sticking up for you. If it feels dangerous to go alone, take us with you! Join Queernecks for a watch party on Halloween at 8:00 pm EST. Queernecks is a podcast about growing up queer in Appalachia, hosted by two hilarious cultural studies profs. For access to the Hall-O-Kween Live party join the $2 Broke Tier @ https://ko-fi.com/queernecks

This episode covers memorable birthday stories, struggles with quitting smoking, and reflections on queer culture and celebrity crushes. From discussing the intricacies of dissertation writing to sharing experiences with tattoo art, the hosts provide an intimate and candid look at their lives. Plus, dive into their humorous take on scarecrows as well as insights into Appalachian traditions like forecasting winter using persimmon seeds. Don't miss their chat on favorite horror movies and the challenge of navigating queer identity in a heteronormative world. Tune in for laughter, heartfelt stories, and warm camaraderie.

00:00 Welcome to Queernecks

00:27 Birthday Memories

01:17 Quitting Smoking Struggles

03:41 Continuing the PhD Journey

07:24 Fall Vibes and Horror Movies

12:51 First Crushes and Celebrity Admiration

19:39 The Persistence of Print Media

20:17 Trivia Enthusiasts Unite

21:05 Celebrity Crushes and Queer Experiences

25:14 Cultural Appropriation and Queer Culture

30:30 Therapy and Mental Health

34:54 Appalachian Weather Predictions

37:14 Car Talk and Personal Stories

40:13 Podcast Wrap-Up and Announcements

Join our Ko-fi for access to the discord https://ko-fi.com/queernecks

Beck and Dash discuss dissertations and therapy. They delve into conversations about favorite movies, including horror films and the cultural impact of the first R-rated movies they watched. The hosts also reflect on queer representation in media, sharing personal anecdotes about their early encounters with LGBTQ+ visibility on television. They discuss mid-century and modern depictions of queer characters and the societal impact of these representations. The episode also touches on the cultural significance of Mountain Dew in Appalachia and introduces quirky elements like chickens and roosters. The hosts conclude with plans for a community watch party and encourage listener engagement through email and social media.

00:00 Introduction to Queernecks Podcast

00:17 Deciding on the Program

00:35 Academic Challenges and Dissertation Talk

03:23 Therapy Program Experiences

06:10 Horror Movies and Childhood Memories

15:54 Stephen King and Apocalyptic Shows

20:27 Queer Representation

20:31 Early Encounters with Queer Representation

21:21 Impact of Queer Representation in Media

22:25 Personal Stories and Reflections

26:33 Addiction and Recovery

27:59 The Role of Television in Shaping Culture

33:38 Mountain Dew: A Cultural Icon

38:56 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

42:13 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Beck and Dash welcome Willie Edward Taylor Carver Jr., a celebrated teacher and author, as their special guest. Willie discusses his experiences as Kentucky's Teacher of the Year in 2022, his published book 'Gay Poems for Red States,' and the societal challenges he's faced as an openly queer teacher in rural Kentucky. The conversation explores themes of Appalachia's resilience, the impact of regional and identity politics on education, and the importance of diverse representation. The episode also features humorous anecdotes about cultural quirks, such as gas station chicken and county fairs, while highlighting the intersections of Appalachian and queer identities. Finally, the podcast touches on the necessity of expanding diverse voices in media and literature.

Check out Willie's book Gay Poems for Red States (2023) and pre-order his novel Tore All To Pieces https://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781985903708

In the vibrant tapestry of identities, the intersection of queerness and regional heritage presents a unique perspective. Willie, a storyteller with roots steeped in Appalachian culture, offers a profound insight into how this region has shaped his sense of identity. For him, the term "queer" extends beyond sexual orientation or gender identity, weaving in aspects of his Appalachian upbringing.

When Willie speaks about being queer, he's touching on a broader idea than one might initially assume. He explains, "When somebody says he's Queer, they often mean he's different and we're aware of it." This reflection echoes a universal truth: queerness is about embracing one's differences and the perceptions they generate in the world. For Willie, being queer means living openly, acknowledging the distinctiveness that sets him apart.

In his narration, Willie makes an intriguing declaration: in the acronym LGBTQIA, the 'A' stands for Appalachia, alongside its other connotations. This symbolizes the integration of his geographical roots into his identity, a declaration of pride in where he comes from and how it has informed his worldview. It's not just Appalachian landscapes or folklore that define him, but the way these elements have played into his experiences of queerness.

Growing up Appalachian, Willie learned resilience early on—lessons that resonate with his queer identity today. He speaks candidly about facing pushback, not just for being queer, but for his Appalachian background. His response: "Go do it on purpose." This mantra encapsulates a rebellious embrace of identity, suggesting that authenticity is found in turning perceived negatives into points of pride.

Willie's story illustrates the power of embracing complex identities and the narratives they foster. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of queerness through an Appalachian lens, we broaden our understanding of what it means to belong to both communities. It reminds us that regional heritage and personal identity are not mutually exclusive but rather intertwined threads that enrich the stories we tell about ourselves.

Through his experiences, Willie invites us all to reflect on the layers of our identities and to celebrate the diverse ways they shape who we are.

00:00 Welcome to Queernecks

00:23 Introducing Willie Edward Taylor Carver Jr.

01:34 Appalachian Identity and Queerness

05:20 Accent and Cultural Misunderstandings

12:22 Challenges in Education

17:19 Advocacy and Resistance

24:45 Transition to Creativity

29:07 Decline of Gay-Straight Alliances

29:38 Resilience and Ingenuity in Appalachia

29:49 Liberation and Identity in Queer Spaces

30:42 Contrasts Between Appalachia and Blue States

33:16 Experiences in Queer Bars

34:33 Jerry Springer and Anti-Racism

37:01 Writing and Representation

43:46 Queer Appalachian Voices

The Wheel of What-Have-You was basically forgotten this episode in favor of some reminiscing and jawing about cultural theory, intersectionality, power and privilege, and why you should never date a graduate student. It was Beck's birthday last week and she came back a blistered lobster, but that only made her funnier. Remember to visit us on social media @queernecks and send us an email if you have a story to tell or idea to share at [email protected].

Subscribe to the newsletter here: https://substack.com/@queernecks

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Birthday Recap

00:50 Sunburn Stories and Swimming Adventures

03:05 Haunted Spaghetti and Food Talk

04:56 Cooking Memories and Recipes

08:35 Homelessness and Bowling Alley Job

15:12 Teaching Challenges and Social Justice

22:43 Hijinks and Childhood Memories

24:02 Childhood Games and Cousin Memories

25:14 Family Dynamics and Growing Up

26:19 Adventures and Mishaps

26:26 Drinking Stories and Party Days

30:16 Gift Giving and Love Languages

33:35 Social Media and Online Presence

38:38 Sponsor

41:51 Noun of Appalachian Interest

45:30 Conclusion and Future Plans

We rambled from grief to TV and movies, with a minor detour into misadventure. Apparently Dash was in a shootout once and didn't even know until the cops told him. As always, Queernecks is fortunate and grateful to the folks who keep listening! If you have a crazy story, drop us a note at [email protected]! But make sure the names and places are changed or the statute of limitations is up ;)

We dedicate this episode to the queer and trans kids, faculty, and staff who are going back to the classroom after too short of a summer off to fully lick the wounds of the past year. Hang in there darlings; you're always just around the corner from the light.

chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:17 Summer Sleep Schedules

00:52 Health Alerts and Smartwatches

01:55 Shannon's Work Injury

03:05 Age and Family History

05:31 True Detective and Streaming Services

06:55 Walking at Night and Police Encounter

12:38 Worst Movies Ever

17:32 High School Memories and Substance Use

22:42 High School Memories and Substance Use

25:05 Cultural Hegemony and Decadence

27:42 Personal Experiences with Medication

32:37 Public Libraries: A Community Treasure

38:45 Appalachian Cuisine: Soup Beans and Cornbread

41:31 Challenges and Triumphs in Education

46:07 Conclusion and Social Media Shoutouts

Welcome back to Queernecks, where glitter meets grit on the front porch. This week, Dash and Beck swap stories about house shoes, high-tech cat litter boxes, small-town characters, and the ways humor keeps Appalachian queer folks surviving and thriving. From food memories to mixtape nostalgia, from local legends to the grit of everyday life, this episode brings the laughter, the camp, and the real talk.

We’re building queer community one holler story at a time—and we want y’all in on it. Got thoughts, local legends of your own, or nouns of Appalachian interest? Drop us a line at [email protected].

✨ Stay in the loop and get extra gossip by joining our newsletter: queernecks on Substack.

Correction to something Dash said: WYSO isn't affiliated with West Virginia Public Media, but is instead based in Yellow Springs, Ohio.

In this episode, we sit down with Lee Wade, creator of the podcast Translucent on West Virginia Public Radio. Lee shares the inspiration behind starting the show in the midst of rising anti-trans legislation, and how the name Translucent reflects his mission to shine light on trans stories that are too often overlooked.

Lee opens up about his journey as a Black trans person navigating advocacy, mentorship, and grassroots podcast production. He recounts powerful conversations from Translucent, including an emotional interview with a Republican trans woman about restrictive legislation, and a deeply personal exchange with his father following incarceration. Lee’s story highlights the importance of allyship, adaptation, and creating space for trans voices in media.

The episode begins with lighter moments—funny stories about cat fights and candid reflections on students cheating in online learning. We also discuss the ethics of AI, drawing connections to systemic issues like racism and environmental justice. The conversation flows into personal anecdotes about haircuts, tattoos, and cultural identity, exploring how barbershops and body art carry meaning in diverse communities.

Along the way, we spotlight Tudor’s Biscuit World, a beloved Appalachian restaurant known for hearty meals and community impact.

We close by encouraging listener engagement, introducing our new newsletter, and reminding everyone to follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Keywords: trans stories, Black trans voices, Translucent podcast, anti-trans legislation, allyship, Appalachian culture, online teaching challenges, AI ethics, barbershop culture, tattoo stories, Tudor’s Biscuit World, grassroots podcasting, West Virginia Public Radio

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various themes including the spontaneity of their podcast format, listener engagement, academic journeys, gender dynamics in sports, cultural reflections through baseball, childhood outdoor experiences, and valuable life lessons learned from driving. The discussion is rich with personal anecdotes and insights, creating a relatable and thought-provoking dialogue. In this engaging conversation, Beck and Dash explore themes of personal reflection, cultural significance, and the emotional weight of memories tied to holidays and family traditions. They discuss Labor Day and Memorial Day, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the complexities of grief and trauma. The conversation shifts to the significance of yard sales as a form of community and resourcefulness, before delving into the cultural symbolism of mason jars in Appalachian life. The episode concludes with reflections on family, communication, and the legacies we leave behind.

Takeaways

The show lacks a preview format, leading to spontaneous discussions.

Listener feedback is appreciated and incorporated into the show.

The evolution of language reflects changes in technology and culture.

Academic journeys can be challenging but rewarding.

Gender dynamics in sports highlight ongoing issues of representation.

Baseball serves as a cultural mirror for American society.

Outdoor experiences shape childhood memories and personal growth.

Driving experiences teach valuable life lessons about safety and responsibility.

Personal stories reveal the complexities of identity and upbringing.

Engagement with listeners fosters a sense of community. Labor Day is a celebration of workers' rights and personal milestones.

Memorial Day can evoke strong emotional responses due to personal loss.

Triggers can come from unexpected places, impacting our emotional state.

Yard sales serve as a means of community support and resourcefulness.

Mason jars symbolize tradition, practicality, and Appalachian culture.

Cleaning out a parent's house can lead to a minimalist lifestyle.

Cultural phrases can vary significantly and may confuse others.

The importance of making connections across generations is highlighted.

Humor and storytelling are vital in sharing personal experiences.

The conversation emphasizes the significance of family and shared memories.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Show Philosophy

04:32 Listener Engagement and Suggestions

07:36 Academic Journeys and Challenges

13:21 Representation in Sports and Gender Dynamics

18:14 Cultural Reflections in Baseball

22:10 Outdoor Experiences and Childhood Memories

32:48 Driving Experiences and Lessons Learned

42:13 Celebrating Labor Day and Personal Reflections

43:20 Memorial Day: Personal Trauma and Collective Memory

46:18 Triggers and Unexpected Memories

48:51 The Significance of Yard Sales

01:00:35 Mason Jars: A Symbol of Appalachian Culture

01:14:15 Closing Thoughts and Reflections on Family

tags:

podcast, conversation, academic journeys, sports representation, gender dynamics, outdoor experiences, driving lessons, cultural reflections, listener engagement, personal stories, Labor Day, Memorial Day, trauma, yard sales, Appalachian culture, mason jars, personal stories, family, memories, triggers

This conversation explores a variety of themes, including the quirky culture of Toledo, food safety perceptions, unique funeral customs, driving experiences in the Appalachian region, the impact of weather on daily life, childhood memories, media sensationalism, health remedies, and the cultural significance of Dolly Parton. The hosts share personal anecdotes and reflections, creating a rich tapestry of Appalachian life and community.

Takeaways

There's always redneckery going on in Toledo.

Candlelight vigils for closed restaurants show community spirit.

Health department violations don't always indicate poor food quality.

Cultural differences in funeral customs can be striking.

Appalachian funerals often lack traditional pageantry.

Driving in the mountains can be a unique experience.

Weather can significantly impact daily life and activities.

Childhood experiences shape our perceptions of weather.

Media sensationalism has evolved with the 24-hour news cycle.

Home remedies often reflect cultural practices.

Chapters

00:00 Redneckery in Toledo

03:49 Community and Mourning

07:33 Funeral Traditions and Personal Stories

12:13 Driving and Vehicle Anecdotes

15:37 Weather and Corn Sweat

16:20 Exploring Local Water Bodies

18:23 Body Image and Vulnerability

20:11 Childhood Memories and Weather Experiences

23:16 Impact of News on Childhood

25:47 Sensationalism in Media and Its Effects

32:11 Military Medicine and Home Remedies

33:35 Dental Health and Insurance Issues

35:06 Childhood Injuries and Remedies

35:45 Redneck Injuries and Survival Stories

42:08 Dolly Parton: A Cultural Icon

47:00 Local Culture and Community Connections

49:20 New Chapter

tags

Toledo, redneck culture, food safety, funeral customs, Appalachian culture, driving stories, weather phenomena, childhood memories, media sensationalism, health remedies, Dolly Parton

This episode contains to adult entertainment because Beck tells a story about the adult entertainment store her parents owned at 12:26. If you don't want to hear the story skip from 12:26 to 14:56.

Dash and Beck reflect on their childhood experiences, the impact of media, and the significance of community celebrations. They share nostalgic memories of Christmas traditions, the evolution of holiday decorations, and their first experiences in queer spaces. The discussion delves into the intersection of queerness and community care, the cultural significance of granny women, and the challenges of navigating identity in rural Appalachia. They also touch on the importance of support systems and resources for those seeking to quit smoking or other vices, emphasizing the need for community and understanding.

Chapters

00:00 Nostalgic Reflections on Childhood and Family Life

07:19 The Impact of Holiday Traditions

13:49 Exploring Queerness in Rural Settings

21:50 First Experiences in Queer Spaces

23:56 Exploring Lavender Relationships

27:39 Marriage and Identity in Appalachia

30:57 Life Expectancy and Health in Appalachia

37:44 Granny Women: Healers of the Community

42:15 Cultural Perspectives on Alcohol and Nutrition

45:11 New Chapter

tags:

childhood, media, community, queer spaces, Appalachia, identity, granny women, food, support