The Holler: A Visit Mountaineer Country Podcast

Join us as we sit down with Morgantown Mayor Danielle Trumble to explore how local government and tourism organizations work together to provide great experiences for visitors and locals. Hear the latest news on visitor experience and small businesses from an insider's perspective. Tune in to hear what makes Morgantown a great place to visit.

Founded in 2001, the Aurora Project provides a dynamic environment that supports artists and the creative process. The restored Aurora Project properties were once part of a 19th-century mountain resort. They have since been converted into private studios and lodging. The buildings are across a rural, two-lane road from Cathedral State Park. Here, artists are responsible only for themselves and their work. Longstanding members Viola Wentzel and Walt Ranalli tell us all about it on The Holler.

After nearly a decade of leadership at Visit Mountaineer Country, Susan Riddle is embarking on a new journey as CEO of Mylan Park. In the month’s episode of “The Holler,” Susandiscusses her time at the CVB, how the organization and region have evolved, and what she hopes the future will bring. She talks about collaboration as an asset in North Central West Virginia and the importance of leaning intopartnerships.

With America250 on everyone's mind, more people are interested in our nation's history. This month, Visit Mountaineer Country sat down with Jason Burns from the Morgantown History Museum to discuss the history of Monongalia County, the importance of history, and how the museum drives tourism. Jason also shares his favorite historical fun facts and discusses what exciting things are coming to the area.

If you've ever been curious about how museums source artifacts or curate exhibits, Jason has you covered! From Don Knotts to glass factories to prehistory, the Morgantown History Museum is a treasure trove of information.

If you haven't listened to part 1, go back and listen to our conversation with West Virginia Scenic Trails Association Communication Coordinator Nicolle Flood-Sawczyszyn.

In this episode, we sit down with local runner and ultra marathoner Donnie Orr, who is attempting to set the fastest known time (FKT) for the Allegheny Trail in June 2026. This will be both a physical and mental challenge as Donnie sets out to hike all 300+ miles of the trail in just over four days. In this episode, Donnie discusses the logistics of planning for a run like this, from his crew to pizza places along the way. Donnie also talks about how running has been an outlet to improve his mental health, and part of this attempt is to also raise support for Bigger Than the Trail, an organization focused on bringing light to the real struggles and challenges that are associated with mental health. Beyond mental health, Donnie also hopes this journey will highlight the beauty, challenge, and versatility of the Allegheny Trail. If he sets the FKT, he invites others to beat it.

You can contact Donnie here. You can find Donnie's GoFundMe supporting mental health initiatives here.

Spanning 316 miles, the Allegheny Trail—West Virginia's Longest Trail- stretches across rugged ridgelines, quiet forests, and historic landscapes. Built and maintained by volunteers, it offers a hiking experience unlike any other in Appalachia — wild, rugged, and deeply immersed in nature. Communications Coordinator for the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association, Nicolle Flood-Sawczyszyn isn't shy about her love and enthusiasm for the trail and what it offers. Listen to Visit Mountaineer Country's conversation with Nicolle about the history and volunteers behind the trail. After that, head to part two of this episode and meet Donnie Orr, a local ultra marathoner planning to set the fastest known time for the trail.

Situated in beautiful Preston County, West Virginia, Modern Homestead offers anything you could want in a cozy weekend getaway. Friendly accommodations, delicious meals and a stunning garden center begging to be explored. The owners, Lucas and Trellis, had a conversation with Visit Mountaineer Country about how the business began and where it’s going.

This month, Rachel sat down with Frank Witt, campground manager at the new Mylan Park KOA Holiday. Frank tells us about exciting updates at the KOA, what campers can expect from their stay, and why outdoor lodging is gaining popularity. He also answers hard-hitting questions like whether he prefers hot dogs or s'mores!

If you're in Morgantown for a West Virginia University Mountaineer Football game or looking for a getaway not too far from modern amenities, the KOA Holiday and Mylan Park may be for you.

This month, West Virginia University President Michael T. Benson stopped by The Holler to discuss how WVU acts as a tourism driver in North Central West Virginia. President Benson joined us as a part of his "Welcome Home Tour," where he intends to visit all 55 counties in West Virginia in the first year of his presidency.

Whether fans are traveling to Morgantown to cheer on the Mountaineers for a football game or watch the women's basketball team host the NCAA March Madness tournament, WVU athletics brings people to the area. But it's not just athletics, academic conferences, families visiting students, and West Virginians taking advantage of the resources their land-grant institution has to offer also add to the large number of people who travel to the region.

Listen to our conversation with President Benson to learn more about what WVU is doing to support tourism in West Virginia. And as a bonus, find out who he's cheering for in the WVU vs. Coastal Carolina Home Opener.

In this episode, we sit down with Morgantown, West Virginia artist Eddie Spaghetti to talk about creativity, community, and the thriving arts scene in Mountaineer Country. Eddie shares how his love for the natural world inspires his work and discusses The Ferry House, a unique creative community space that brings artists and neighbors together.

If you think creativity in West Virginia’s arts community is lacking, think again. From grassroots art spaces to nature-inspired work, this conversation highlights the vibrant and growing creative culture in Morgantown and North Central West Virginia.