PODCAST · arts
Wayne Bennett's Podcast
by Wayne Bennett
Wayne Bennett's Podcast explores the Appalachian Culture through music, sports, writing, and various positive venues.
Episodes
-
Episode 197: Gary Crouth Episode 197
Gary Crouth is a singer/songwriter from Pittsburg who was inspired by the people and love of Southern West Virginia. His songs like Coalyard Charlie, Oakie Mills, Cabbagehead, and Martha White's Farm talk about real people and events particularly around Beckley. His CD, "Crossing Appalachia," can...
-
Episode 192: Rodney Elam Episode 195
Beckley's Rodney Elam is being honored with the "Lifetime Service to Wrestling" award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
-
Episode 194: Beverly Bales Cook Episode 194
Beverly Bales Cook has donated a great deal of her life to the art of dancing, She has also been an accountant, city controller, adjunct professor, and high school cross country coach.
-
Episode 196: Rudy Paugh Episode 196
Rudy Paugh has been a coalminer, Park Ranger, and forest firefighter. In his spare time, he has officiated football, basketball, baseball and volleyball. His experiences are priceless!
-
Episode 193: Danny Pack Episode 193
Danny Pack has played music for more than sixty years. One local band he played with was, "The Midnight Beats" from the late 1960's and early 1970's. Listen as he shares his life and musical career.
-
Episode 192: Tom Sopher Episode 192
Tom Sopher gives us some history lessons when he speaks about the Ferguson Rock, Beckley Mill, and Raleigh County's first governor. He also does not mince words when he mentions Jenna Belcher, Leslie Baker, Phil Jarrel and Jim Justice. Interesting interview!
-
Episode 191: Tom Sopher Episode 191
Have you ever wondered about the Jewish population in Beckley and Southern West Virginia? Tom Sopher shares some history, customs and noted people affiliated with the local Jewish Religion. Enlighten discussion!
-
Episode 190: Bob Clay Episode 190
Bob Clay has lived an adventurous and sometimes exciting life. He's decided to write about a few of his most memorable experiences. "On the Corner of Main and Fayette" is an enjoyable read. Very informative.
-
Episode 189: Fridley Boys Episode 189
Roy and George Fridley return to our podcast to discuss their album, upcoming concerts, and memorable awards they have received. This interview was a blast!
-
Episode 188: Fred Hill III Episode 188
Fred Hill III, known as a “hitting machine” for his love of contact during his football days at Woodrow Wilson High School and WV State University, went on to work in the political arena and later retired from the military as a Major. He has plenty of great stories to tell!
-
Episode 187: Bobby Elam Episode 187
Bobby, a former Woodrow Wilson athlete, also served as a Raleigh County Deputy and Beckley Police Officer. He opens up about his life, including one unforgettable and intense experience. It’s a story you won’t want to miss!
-
Episode 186: Jeff Sweeney Episode 186
Jeff Sweeney, a former Shady Spring football player and wrestler, was a key part of the Tigers’ 1980 state champion wrestling team. He went on to serve over thirty-seven years as a Conservation Officer, earning the title of WV Conservation Officer of the Year in 2003. He’s full of...
-
Episode 185: Mark Daniel Episode 185
Mark Daniel coached baseball at Shady Spring High School and Woodrow Wilson for a total of twenty-five years. His love of the game proved to be an inspiration to hundreds of potential stars. He was an innovator as well as a successful coach. Great interview!
-
Episode 184: Fred Hill II Episode 184
Fred Hill II was a longtime educator and coach in Raleigh County. He was one of the most positive people you could ever meet. His influence on the development and character of thousands of young people proves immeasurable. Listen to waynebennettpodcast.com, Episode 184 as we pay tribute to Fred…
more -
Episode 183: Cheryl Burm Episode 183
Cheryl Burm moved to West Virginia because of the state's beauty. She had always dreamed of owning a bookstore. Starting from scratch, Burm Books in Beckley is a labor of love for the retired attorney. Listen as she shares some of her story. Amazing!
-
Episode 182: Larry Ransom Episode 182
Larry Ransom has worn many hats. He served as a Marine, has worked as a truck driver, equipment operator, bridge builder and owned a successful tree service company. He also spent years as a high school wrestling coach, referee and scorer. He is now a member of the Raleigh County Wrestling Hall…
more -
Episode 181: John Campbell Episode 181
John grew up in Mullens during the 1980's and basketball was" King." Playing for a legendary coach and with legendary teammates the bar to succeed was high. His stories are fresh and funny with a touch of passion and glowing honesty. This is a must listen!
-
Episode 180: Clayton Arnold Terry Episode 180
Clayton Terry has worn many hats—county administrator, humane officer, board member, Jaycee, and more. But the title he treasures most is Sophia Bluehawk. Listen as he opens up about a meaningful chapter of his life!
-
Episode 178: Butch Freeman Episode 178
Butch Freeman was the loyal and dedicated assistant basketball coach to Dave Barksdale during the Flying Eagle decade of the 1990s. He stepped in whenever Dave was unavailable and later took on the role of head golf coach for several seasons. Remarkably humble, he’s truly the best—a great person…
more -
Episode 179: 2025 Fallen Heroes Wrestling Tournament Episode179
We spoke with several members of the wrestling community at the Fallen Heros Tournament: Coach Jon Brown (Richlands High), wrestlers London Cook and Jenna Panossian (Liberty High) Coach Ted Kuhn (South Charleston High), Coach Chris Vaughn and wrestlers Tucker Pugh and Waylon Rhodes (Meadow Bridge...
-
Episode 177: Ron Brunk Episode 177
Ron Brunk has been described as an eccentric entertainer, singer, musician and prolific writer of songs, poems and novels. He shares his story about some downfalls of being creative and the "demons and snakes" that exist in Nashville. His work is unique, and his compassion is contagious!
-
Episode 176: Jim Kirby, Episode 176
Jim Kirby is a former athlete at Woodrow Wilson High School. Now a retired electrical engineer (WVU grad) he referees high school volleyball and umpires softball. His dad coached youth baseball and refereed football and basketball throughout southern West Virginia. Jim's story is unique.
-
Episode 175: Joey and Michelle Bare Episode 175
Joe and Michelle Bare possess a great deal of ambition and determination when it comes to working hard but allowing time to enjoy life. They are businesspeople, entrepreneurs, and dynamic community supporters. Join us as we talk about the good and bad parts of running a small business. Listen to...
-
Episode 174: Doug Elliott Episode 174
Doug Elliott played four sports at Shady Spring High School in the early 1960's. Later in life he worked at the Welfare Department, taught History in College, and sold shoes all during the same time period. He still found time to hunt and fish. Interesting story!!
-
Episode 173: Melissa Grose Goodson Episode 173
Melissa was an outstanding athlete in high school and college. Listen as she shares humorous stories about talking too much in class and "choosing" her husband. She also tells us about her professional career and how God made a difference in her life! Great interview!
-
Episode 172: Eric Thomas Episode 172
Eric Thomas was an outstanding athlete at Independence High School in the late 1980's. Later he became a member of Marshall University's football team. A gruesome injury ended his athletic career but his sports knowledge opened up doors to announcing and analyzing local high school competitions....
-
Episode 171: Dale Stafford Episode 171
Dale overcame a rough period after childhood cancer delayed his start in sports. He went on to become a high school and college athlete and has devoted more than 35 years to teaching and coaching young competitors. This should be required listening!
-
Episode 169: Eddie Souk Episode 169
Hall of Fame football coach Eddie Souk remembers the days when Mt. Hope was a booming coal town. His dad ran "The Smokehouse Grill" and his mother was a renowned civic leader in the Mustang community. Listen to Episode 169 on waynebennettpodcast.com as Eddie shares a few stories from his forty…
more -
Episode 170: Marshall University Alumni and Big Green Club Episode 170
The Marshall University Southern Coalfield Alumni and Big Green Club are dedicated to improving lives, with accomplishments like scholarships, community projects, and disaster relief. Hear Amanda Ashley, Larry Foster, and Doug Leeber share heartfelt stories about their passion for helping others.
-
Episode 168: The Fridley Boys + 1, Episode 168
George and Roy Fridley are accomplished musicians who sing, play multiple instruments, and compose beautiful songs. This talented duo from Mannington, WV, along with their mother, Stacie, joins us to discuss their promising musical future. Pay attention and listen!
-
Episode 167: Alan Fell Episode 167
Alan Fell had a variety of jobs before he became a nurse Anesthetist and a coach. His attitude and love for life has been a positive influence on many of our area's youth. Alan knows politics and is not afraid to speak up. This is a must listen!
-
Episode 166: Troy Stiffler Episode 166
Troy Stiffler has worn many hats during his lifetime. Two of his favorite titles are fishing guide and WV Pickley Guy. The fact that he loves West Virginia makes his story memorable.
-
Episode 164: Bill Withers Tribute Episode 164
The Wayne Bennett Podcast commemorates the statue unveiling and pays homage to Bill Withers Plaza. Additionally, it presents a few recommendations for enhancing foot traffic in downtown Beckley.
-
Episode 164: Bill Withers Tribute Episode 164
The Wayne Bennett Podcast commemorates the unveiling and pays homage to Bill Withers. Additionally, it presents a few recommendations to enhance foot traffic in downtown Beckley.
-
Episode 163: Kenny McMillion Episode 163
Kenny was a two-time state wrestling champion at Shady Spring High School. He was a member of the 1987 championship Tiger Squad. He has coached in the youth wrestling programs and was a highly successful coach at Trap Hill Middle School. He spends his spare time racing cars on asphalt and dirt...
-
Episode 162: Neal Lacey Episode 162
Neal has taught math for more than fifty years. He has directed parades and filmed hundreds of games, concerts and plays in the Beckley area. He and his wife, Helen, have been instrumental to the success of Theatre West Virginia and the Beckley Concert Association. There's more, much more! Click…
more -
Episode 161: Tim Epling Episode 161
Tim Epling has coached baseball on the high school, college, and Prospect league levels. He has umpired professionally and directed numerous camps and clinics for our area youth. Tim has also dedicated much of his life to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Destiny Ministries. Listen as he...
-
Episode 160: Doug Legursky, Episode 160
The 2003 Hunt Award Winner as the best high school lineman in WV played at Marshall University and spent eight seasons in the NFL. He is one of the few native West Virginians with a Super Bowl Ring. Doug is back home working with the younger generation and stressing the importance of doing things...
-
Episode 159: Stephon Ross Episode 159
Stephon Ross was an outstanding leader and athlete in high school. Listen as he shares his amazing life experiences and his feelings about our national and local government. He holds nothing back!
-
Episode 158: Brian Miluk Episode 158
Coach Miluk shares valuable experiences from coaching at St. Edwards, Padua Franciscan, and Greenbrier East High Schools. Additionally, he makes a significant announcement regarding the WV Wrestling State Duals Team Championships. Click on!
-
Episode 157: Chad Street Sarrett Episode 157
The Sarrett name has been synonymous with Beckley football for decades. Head Coach, Street Sarrett, shares some family history, coaching experience, and the importance of doing things the right way. Awesome!
-
Episode 156: Fallen Heroes 2024 Tournament Episode 156
The 2024 Fallen Heroes Wrestling Tourney is in the books. Listen as we chat with a few stars int the Grappling World-Jesse Adams, Jimmie Bailes, Vance Neal, Tyler Roark, Garrett Johnson, Brandon Wooldridge, Colten Dorsey, Anthony Martin, Sterling Beane and Braden Evans.
-
Episode 155: Bill O'Brien Episode 155
Longtime radio announcer, director and owner of WJLS, Bill O'Brien is described as "good natured and is always dependable," in his 1965 yearbook. He shares some great stories about his early days in radio and his term as Mayor of Beckley. You'll love this interview!
-
Episode 154: Dr. B.K. Vaught Episode 154
Today, Dr. B.K. Vaught sat at our kitchen table, reflecting on times filled with adventure, sports, and academics. He is now a renowned neurologist, businessman, philanthropist, and family man, known for his extensive contributions to the community.
-
Episode 154: Levi Smith Episode 153
Levi Smith, a passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan and an 8th grader at Beckley-Stratton Middle School, visited with his father, Mark Smith. We discussed Levi's hobbies, his journey to becoming a Steelers enthusiast, and his aspirations. So, grab your preferred drink and settle in to hear Levi's...
-
Episode 153: Rusty Wooton Episode 152
Rusty Wooton is a local attorney who was born and raised in Raleigh County. He shares his story about the importance of family, community involvement, and his commitment to the values that make southern West Virginia great!
-
Episode 151: Deacon Harry Evans Episode 151
Deacon Harry Evans, a Catholic clergyman, lives on the street where his childhood unfolded. His vibrant memories of youth and teenage escapades have shaped an unconventional life journey. Indeed, a remarkable story!
-
Episode 150: Michael Farris Episode 150
Remember the Farris Department Store? How about Beckley's dentist, Fred and James Farris? Mike Farris retired banker, noted philanthropist, and an accomplished musician. He shares sefira unique stories about his family history. What a Treasure!
-
Episode 149: Wes Holden Episode 149
Wes Holden is a real-life hero, having once rescued six children from a fiercely burning building. For three decades, he served as the right-hand man to Jay Rockefeller, assisting everyday citizens with issues like black lung, securing veteran benefits, healthcare, and more. Discover his...
-
Episode 148: R.J. Elam and Chris Matkins Episode 148
The wrestling coaches from Park Middle School, R.J. Elam and Chris Matkins, dropped in for a chat today. They shared insights into their backgrounds and experiences, as well as their vision for the team this year. It was an engaging conversation!
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Wayne Bennett's Podcast have?
Wayne Bennett's Podcast currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Wayne Bennett's Podcast about?
Wayne Bennett's Podcast explores the Appalachian Culture through music, sports, writing, and various positive venues.
How often does Wayne Bennett's Podcast release new episodes?
Wayne Bennett's Podcast has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Wayne Bennett's Podcast?
You can listen to Wayne Bennett's Podcast 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.
Who hosts Wayne Bennett's Podcast?
Wayne Bennett's Podcast is created and hosted by Wayne Bennett.
URL copied to clipboard!