EPISODE · Mar 12, 2026 · 1H 27M
The Urban vs. Rural Divide: Why Rural Voters Feel Ignored by National Politics
from the ACT OUT podcast · host Adam Tomlin
Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with John Peace, host of the Rural Route Review podcast, for a thoughtful conversation about rural America, politics, and the growing divide between urban and rural perspectives. John shares stories from growing up on a small dairy farm in Wise County, Virginia, where agriculture, coal mining, and family traditions shaped the culture and economy of the Appalachian region. Together, Adam and John explore how industries like tobacco, coal, and manufacturing once sustained rural communities—and what happened when those industries disappeared.John also breaks down how political messaging, economic change, and government policy have influenced voting patterns across Appalachia and rural America. The conversation dives into the decline of local journalism, the rise of “news deserts,” and how social media and national media narratives have replaced local reporting in many communities. Adam and John discuss how that shift has changed political conversations—from debates about local taxes and school funding to national culture-war issues that often have little direct impact on rural towns.Learn more about John Peace and the Rural Route Review podcast: https://youtube.com/@ruralroutepodcast?si=_qloxfO60SmdiflfListeners will also hear an honest look at how personal experiences shape political beliefs—from family traditions and union history to economic crises like the Great Recession. Adam reflects on how his own views evolved over time, while John explains why understanding rural culture is essential for anyone hoping to bridge the political divide. Together they explore why fear, identity, and storytelling often matter more in politics than policy details.If you’ve ever wondered why rural America votes the way it does, how economic changes reshaped Appalachian communities, or why conversations between urban and rural Americans sometimes feel like they’re happening in different worlds, this episode offers a deeper look at the history, culture, and perspectives behind those divides.Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dcOther ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcastFollow the show on Instagram: @actoutpodcast & TikTok: @actoutpodcastCredits:Mural: Tara E. @taradiiiise and @tarayakisauce
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Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with John Peace, host of the Rural Route Review podcast, for a thoughtful conversation about rural America, politics, and the growing divide between urban and rural perspectives. John shares stories from growing up on a small dairy farm in Wise County, Virginia, where agriculture, coal mining, and family traditions shaped the culture and economy of the Appalachian region. Together, Adam and John explore how indus...
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The Urban vs. Rural Divide: Why Rural Voters Feel Ignored by National Politics
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