PODCAST · society
Appalachian Shine
Showcasing the best of Appalachian culture, history, economic opportunity and places to visit.
Episodes
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The Story of Russell County: Coal, Courage & the Clinch
Long before Russell County was formed in 1786, these mountains and valleys were home to Indigenous peoples, hunters, and the first settlers who made their way into Southwest Virginia. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we travel through more than two centuries of Russell County history—from...
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Signs, Omens, and Mountain Lore
What did your grandma warn you never to do after dark? In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore the superstitions, signs, omens, and old mountain lore passed down through generations—from whistling after dark and rocking an empty chair to woolly worms, moon planting, birds at the window,...
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The Little Room That Opened the World
Long before school buses traveled winding mountain roads, Appalachian children walked miles to attend little one-room schoolhouses tucked into hollows, beside creeks, and along mountain ridges. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we travel back to the 1850s and follow the evolution of…
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Richmond: The Crossroads of Kentucky History
Step into the remarkable history of Richmond, Kentucky, where the Bluegrass meets Appalachia and some of America's most dramatic stories unfolded. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we journey from the frontier days of Revolutionary War veteran John Miller and the founding of Richmond to the...
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10 Strange Things Found in the Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains are among the oldest on Earth—and perhaps among the most mysterious. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, host J.C. journeys deep into the hills and hollers to uncover ten of the strangest things ever found in Appalachia. From glowing lights floating above North...
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Small Town, Big Celebration: Inside Clinch River Days
On this episode of Appalachian Shine, we sit down to talk with Kathy Stewart about the upcoming Clinch River Days Festival and everything visitors can expect during the three-day celebration. From live music and local vendors to family activities and events happening all across town, we explore…
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Built by Coal: The Rise and Reckoning of Jenkins, Kentucky
Tonight on Appalachian Shine, we travel into the mountains of Letcher County to explore the story of Jenkins, Kentucky—a town that didn’t grow slowly over generations, but appeared almost overnight with the coming of coal and the railroad. We begin long before Jenkins had a name, when this land…
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That You Remember: Telling the Story Buffalo Creek Couldn’t Keep
In the early morning hours of February 26, 1972, a wall of black water tore through a narrow Appalachian hollow in Logan County—erasing communities, taking lives, and leaving behind a silence that still echoes today. The Buffalo Creek Mine Disaster wasn’t just a tragedy—it was a moment that…
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A Town That Held the Line: Barbourville, Kentucky
In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore the origins and enduring legacy of Barbourville—one of the oldest towns in eastern Kentucky. Founded in 1799, Barbourville helped bring structure and stability to the Appalachian frontier, serving as the heart of Knox County through its earliest...
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Cards, Coal, and the Cumberland Gap: Middlesboro’s Untold Story
Once known across the region as Little Las Vegas, Middlesboro was a town of bright lights, coal money, gambling halls, and contradictions—nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains. In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore the full story of Middlesboro from its ambitious founding in the…
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Built in the Holler: How Appalachia Invented Modern America
In this episode of Appalachian Shine, we explore how invention in the mountains didn’t come from laboratories or corporations—but from necessity. From the steamboat tested on the Potomac near Shepherdstown, to wire rope forged in Pennsylvania coal country, to moonshine stills refined in hidden...
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Ten New Years That Changed Appalachia
As the calendar flips from one year to the next, Appalachia has never greeted midnight quietly. In this special episode, we journey into the hills and hollers to uncover ten powerful moments that unfolded on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, when history, hardship, and hope collided. From Civil...
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The Quiet Season: Finding Peace in Appalachian Winters
When winter settles into the Appalachian hills, life slows in a way that invites reflection, connection, and quiet peace. In this intimate episode of Appalachian Shine, we travel through small towns and mountain communities—from Tazewell County and Richlands to Abingdon, Bristol, Pikeville, and...
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A Mountain Thanksgiving: The History of Thanksgiving in Rural America
In this special Thanksgiving edition of Appalachian Shine, Cyrus Alderwood explores how the holiday took shape in the hollers and ridges of Central Appalachia. From early frontier gatherings to church-centered traditions, Depression-era community meals, and modern family celebrations, this…
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Neighbors Helping Neighbors: One Year After the Storm
One year after Hurricane Helene tore through the heart of Appalachia, the scars on the land remain — but so do the stories of strength, compassion, and neighborly love that rose from the floodwaters. In this deeply personal episode of Appalachian Shine, we reflect on how our communities have...
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Haunted Coal Towns: When the Mine Whispers Back
Deep beneath the Appalachian hills, the coal mines once roared with life — and death. In this Halloween special, Appalachian Shine host J.C. Schweingrouber explores the eerie legends of haunted coal towns and the ghostly whispers that miners swore they heard in the dark. From the Knocking Man of...
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Ghosts of Appalachia: Five Haunting Tales from the Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains hold more than just natural beauty — they keep secrets, too. For generations, people have whispered about glowing ghost lights, drummers who never left the battlefield, and spirits that rise from the water. In this episode, we share five unforgettable ghost stories from...
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Chasing Autumn: Top 10 Fall Destinations in Appalachia
Take a road trip through the heart of Appalachia as we explore the Top 10 autumn destinations where fiery mountain ridges, hidden byways, and small-town festivals bring fall to life. From world-famous drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway to quirky gems like Kentucky’s Woolly Worm Festival, this...
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Tales From the Mountains
In this episode we talk about some of the tales as told and written by Appalachians following the WEP works project under FDR. Jack Tales, Grandfather Tales and some ghost stories! #appalachia #appalachiantales #appalachianstories
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A History of Southwest Virginia
Long before settlers arrived in our region this land was home to several native tribes. Let's take a look back through time. Our journey will take us back hundreds of years, long before a cabin was ever built here, to the Native American peoples who knew these mountains as home. We’ll talk about...
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Preserving Appalachian Stories
In the 1930's FDR implemented the Works Program Administration (WPA). As a part of that program writers were sent to all parts of Appalachia to collect our stories, our traditions, our histories and folklore. Those collected stories today still live on in our region and published at the Library…
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Her Brother's Dog Tags--A Vietnam Era Story
Peggy Wolfe of Bristol sits down with us to discuss her book "Her Brother's Dog Tags." A heartfelt story that captures that era in American history, the story combines mystery, dealing with grief, honor and tenacity into a page turner that every person and family can relate to. "Her Brother's Dog...
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A History of Rail in Central Appalachia Part 2-Bristol and Norton
We continue our exploration into the importance of the growth of the railroad in our region. It impacted Bristol VA/TN in profound ways making it a cultural and business hub that literally changed the music industry nationwide! Norton, VA grew from just a small settlement on the way to frontier...
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The History and Impact of Rail in Central Appalachia
Bluefield, WV used to be a major hub in the regions economic and cultural development. In this episode we explore the history of rail on the development of the region and take a trip back in time to Bluefield, WV. #appalachia #railroads #N&W #BluefieldWV #BluefieldStateU
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Moonshine Over Georgia
Author Chris Skates stops by to talk about his book, Moonshine Over Georgia. Set back in the 1940's, this story is based on real events that took place in the region and the dangers that his own grandfather was in working as a revenuer. You can find his work on Amazon. #moonshine #ChrisSkates...
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Appalachia's Role In The American Revolution
Appalachia and its frontiersmen played a major role in the Revolutionary War and the independence of America. From the brave settlers pressing westward against the rule of the Crown, to the Overmountain Men who fought furiously against the British at the Battle of Kings Mountain, Appalachians...
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A History of Moonshine In Appalachia, Part 2
In this episode we discuss the history and legendary story of the Bondurant Brothers of Franklin County, Virginia. Also, we look into the history of the Big Six from North Carolina. Both gangs sowed tales of resilience and defiance in the face of law enforcement (even the corrupted ones). This…
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A History of Moonshine In Appalachia
Moonshine and whisky has a long history and tradition in these here mountains. From the years after the American Revolution up to now, the history of this illicit craft is fascinating with ties to NASCAR and Hollywood. #moonshine #appalachia #appalahianhistory #NASCAR #PopcornSutton...
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An Appalachian Thanksgiving
Have you ever wondered what Thanksgiving was like for the early settlers of Appalachia? It certainly wasn't the amazing spread on our tables today. It has changed much over the years. Also, we talk about the rich history of Damascus, Virginia. #appalachia #DamascusVA #TrailTownUSA...
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Happy Veteran's Day! The story of Sgt. York.
Who doesn't love the story of Sgt. York, an American legend and hero. We talk about his bravery and work in his Tennessee community after his return from WWI. Also, an update as to what we've been doing in the community. #Appalachia #VeteransDay #SgtYork #grattitude
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The Arts Center-Elkins, WV
Rachel Nestor, a member of the Randolph County Community Arts Council, joins us today from Elkins, West Virginia to talk about all that is going on at the Arts Center. From the amazing exhibits, to arts classes and the history of the very unique building where the magic takes place, Rachel takes…
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Appalachian Halloween Customs and other stories
Halloween is upon us in a few weeks and it looks like people around the region are excited for the coming holidays already. In this episode we talk about a couple of legends and spooky stories. What Halloween traditions do you have? We also pay tribute to an Appalachian author and dear friend,...
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Back of the Dragon
Beth from Back of the Dragon in Tazewell, VA stops by to talk about their upcoming events, the brewery, the shop and one of the best scenic drives in Southwest Virginia. Also, 32 miles, over 400 curves and 3,500 ft in elevation...this is a drive you'll want to make this autumn. Also, on 8/24 is…
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Author Kate Brandes
Kate Brandes is an author and scientist, having spent her professional career working in geology. She recently wrote The Promise of Pierson Orchard, a suspense novel set in a small town, something she relates to on a personal level. Her newest novel, Stone Creek, is available on Amazon in August....
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The Exchange Place--Kingsport, TN
Marshall Adesman from the Exchange Place in Kingsport stops by to talk about the working farm that is a blast from the past, right out of the 1800's! Tours available, and we talk about some really cool history surrounding the property. #ExchangePlace #Kingsport #Tennessee #DanielBoone
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Kentucky Poet Laureate George Ella Lyon
George Ella Lyon, Kentucky Poet Laureate, author and musician joins us to share her story growing up in Harlan, KY and her journey into the craft and world of poetry. #GeorgeEllaLyon #poets #Appalachia #HarlanKY
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Dale Hall, Appalachian author and former CEO of Ducks Unlimited Joins Us.
Dale Hall has spent a lifetime working in conservation. His love of nature and our environment began in Harlan, KY where he grew up. He later became the head of Fish and Wildlife under President George W. Bush and finished up his career as CEO of Ducks Unlimited. He stops by to share his story…
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Voice Magazine For Women
Appalachian book and magazine publisher, Janie Jessee of Jan Carol Publishing in Johnson City, TN stops by to talk about the 20th anniversary of Voice Magazine For Women and the writers and creative minds of her publishing company here in Central Appalachia. #appalachia #JanCarolPublishing...
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A History of Moore's Fort in St. Paul, VA
There is so much fascinating history that happened in Central Appalachia. Near the cozy town of St. Paul you'll find a historical marker that shows the approximate location of Moor's Fort. Who was Moore and why was this fort built here? We dive into the 1770's along the Clinch River in this…
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A Brief History of Hazard and Talkin' Mountain Monsters
In this episode we talk about the history of Hazard, KY. Also, what creatures are lurking out there in our mountains? #HazardKY #Kentucky #SWVA #MotherGooseHouse #appalachiantrail #mountainmonsters #mothman #bigfoot
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Top Books by Appalachian Authors 2023
Here's our top 10 suggestions for your reading pleasure. It's important to support your local writers, and here are some great reads for the coming new year. #appalachianbooks #appalachianwriters #demoncopperhead
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The Saltville Massacre and the Civil War in Appalachia
We are blessed with amazing history in our region. During the Civil War many battles were fought in our region on both sides of the conflict. Today we talk a little about the Saltville Massacre and recommend a few books about the Civil War in our region. Also, a special thanks to A! Magazine for...
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Top 5 Appalachian Fall Foliage Destinations
Take a drive through these gorgeous mountains and take in all the fall colors. Don't forget to take photos!! And be sure to share with us. Also, what's coming up soon for the FAA. #appalachia #appalachian #fallcolors #fallfoliage #DavisWV #fallhikes www.appalachianbackroads.com
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Appalachian Storyteller: Adda Leah Davis
In this episode we continue our Appalachian Storyteller series with Adda Davis, who we all dearly called "Addie." She's a McDowell County, WV native now living in Russell County, VA. She is a retired elementary school teacher and counselor and spends her time in many authors' guilds around the...
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What is your vision for Appalachia?
What is your vision for the future of our region? What would you like to see in regards to tourism and economic development? How about having educational videos and literature available to learn the rich history of our region and about our importance in the development of this great nation? That…
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Upcoming Festivals in WVA
West Virginia is home to countless festivals and good times during the summer months. We talk about a few of them in this episode and we highlight the upcoming events of Clinch River Days in St. Paul, VA. #WestVirginia #Appalachia #festivals #summerfun #StPaulVA #ClinchRiverDays
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The Moonshine Messiah
Author Russell W. Johnson stops by today to talk about his upcoming book, The Moonshine Messiah, and read from his short story that landed him the coveted Pearl S. Buck Award! Moonshine Messiah is set to release on Friday May 26th. You can find his work on Amazon and on his website,...
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What’s Happening Around the Region
There are several events worth attending going on all around our region in the months of April and May. Writers Day--Spring Fling w/ the Appalachian Authors Guild Redbud Festival--Honaker, VA Numerous events around Abingdon, VA! #Honaker #Abingdon #Bristol #appalachia #appalachian
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Helping Domestic Abuse Victims In the Region
Angel Mefford, victim advocate from Family Crisis Services in Norton, VA joins us to talk about the upcoming 5K Run in Big Stone Gap to bring awareness and raise funds to help victims of domestic violence in our region. #appalachia #domesticabuse #operationhelpinghand www.supportappalachia.org...
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Author Celeste Parsons
Celeste Parsons, author of Wait Until I Grow Up and editor of Nelsonville From A to Z joins us to talk about her first children's book and read from both. We also discuss her work with Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville. With 85,000 miles on the bike under her belt since 2000, she is working on...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Appalachian Shine have?
Appalachian Shine currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Appalachian Shine about?
Showcasing the best of Appalachian culture, history, economic opportunity and places to visit.
How often does Appalachian Shine release new episodes?
Appalachian Shine has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Appalachian Shine?
You can listen to Appalachian Shine on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
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