Best Appalachias Voice Podcasts (2024)

1
Rising Appalachia's Leah Song on Slow Music, Herbal Allies, Activism, and Optimism 1:15:24

2h ago1:15:24

1:15:24

Leah Song is one half of the musical duo Rising Appalachia - alongside her sister Chloe, they are an internationally touring folk ensemble steeped in the soul of the South that blends Americana music with lyrics, rhythm and poetry to form a unique sound influenced by a blend of Appalachian, Irish, Latin and world roots music. Leah was at Esalen Ins…

1
Appalachia's Scottish Roots and the Influences of Scots Gaelic 46:15

6h ago46:15

46:15

What did you think of this episode? Musician and storyteller Jack Beck, a native of Dunfermline, Scotland, joins me in this episode to talk about his homeland's cultural connection to the Appalachian region. He'll tell us about: how Scots-English came to be part of the Appalachian dialect (in our surnames, occupational names, and place names, for e…

1
JJ Jeffries on Pathways to Joy and His Esalen Journey 1:05:00

8d ago1:05:00

1:05:00

Known to the masses as simply "JJ," JJ Jeffries is a recognizable figure on the Esalen campus, meeting and greeting arrivals with a kind and pleasant vibe, as well as a memorably dry sense of humor. Mentor, Gestalt and Embodied Awareness practitioner, musician, and memory-keeper, JJ teaches a host of classes at Esalen, including "How to Drop Into E…

1
A Conversation with Barbara Kingsolver Part II 1:03:08

13d ago1:03:08

1:03:08

What did you think of this episode? In this continuation of the Barbara Kingsolver episodes, the eastern Kentucky native gives her last talk on her novel, Demon Copperhead on the campus of The University of Virginia's College at Wise, following our discussion in Part I. She reads from the opening scene of the novel; talks about the places that insp…

1
A Conversation with Pulitzer Winning Author of Demon Copperhead Barbara Kingsolver (Part 1) 45:01

20d ago45:01

45:01

What did you think of this episode? In this first of two episodes with the author of Demon Copperhead, Barbara Kingsolver says she is "bringing Demon home" in her last talk about the novel. She discusses her love of her Appalachian language, how the novel began at the desk of Charles Dickens, and her research into foster care, football, and addicti…

1
Mountain Lake Lodge in Southwest Virginia: History, Mystery, and Hollywood 23:58

27d ago23:58

23:58

What did you think of this episode? Join us as we spend a weekend at beautiful Mountain Lake Lodge in this Appalachian Places and Spaces episode. Hear about the history of the lodge, dating back to the 1700's, and why the property was once known as "Salt Pond." We'll fast forward to the 1980's to find out how directors of the classic Dirty Dancing …

1
Vivian Rosenthal on Frequency Breathwork (with full Breathwork Session!) 1:25:20

1M ago1:25:20

1:25:20

Vivian Rosenthal is co-founder of Frequency Breathwork and Diamond Rose Sanctuary, where she combines Kundalini, breathwork, and energy medicine to create profound shifts in consciousness.Vivian has guided over 10,000 people through therapeutic breath work sessions. In this episode, we’ll split our time between Vivian speaking about how breath work…

1
#27 On the Move With Mission Mobile Medical 57:26

2M ago57:26

57:26

Join host Tracy Douglas as she talks with Travis LeFever and Brad Watson of Mission Mobile Medical. This organization creates mobile healthcare units at a fraction of the typical cost. Listen as Travis and Brad discuss their “why” and their passion for providing healthcare to all communities, especially the ones who might not have access to the car…

1
The Origin of "Dog Days" and Its Folklore, and the Southern Appalachian City of Knoxville 32:01

2M ago32:01

32:01

What did you think of this episode? Dog Days has begun, and I'm exploring the origins of this 16th century phrase. Did you know the season from July 3rd to August 11 coincides with Sirius, or Canis Major (in the shape of a dog) of the Orion Constellation? Joining me in this episode is Shallon Payne of The Appalachian Homestead, whose family-for gen…

1
Snow Raven, Live at Esalen - Shamanistic Spirit, Arctic Beatbox 47:44

2M ago47:44

47:44

Snow Raven, also known as Suor, a performer from the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in Arctic Siberia, now residing in the United States, performed live at Esalen Institute this winter, during our Go Within Series. Snow Raven is renowned for her unique blend of traditional shamanic practices and modern electronic music, which she uses to connect with …

1
The Tradition of Prayer Cloths, and the Only Town in Appalachia That's Named "Appalachia" 10:17

2M ago10:17

10:17

What did you think of this episode? Prayer cloths are symbols of a deep and widespread faith that has been in Appalachia since its settlement. From simple squares to quilts to shawls, prayers are embedded in the fibers, along with a promise that faith has healing power. Learn about the practice of prayer cloths, the verses that may inspire them, an…

1
The word "Holler," Lightning Bug or Firefly, and Spellcheck by Anne Shelby 19:17

2M ago19:17

19:17

What did you think of this episode? Those of us who grew up in a "holler" know that they can be deep, dark valleys or winding roads between hills. But did you know holler also refers to yodeling, calling, yelling? And if you've never heard "holler down a rainbarrel" you might be surprised to learn what it means. We'll also explore the Americanism "…

1
Maddy Dychtwald on Ageless Aging: A Woman’s Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan 58:40

2M ago58:40

58:40

Maddy Dychtwald is the author of the new bestselling book “Ageless Aging: A Woman’s Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan.” Maddy has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the top fifty female futurists globally. With her husband Ken Dychtwald, she is the co-founder of Age Wave, a world leader in understanding and addressin…

1
The Myth of Isolation in Appalachia 25:14

2M ago25:14

25:14

What did you think of this episode? We know modern Appalachia isn't isolated, so why do people keep using that word to describe a region that includes 13 states and 25 million people? This episode is a commentary on the origins of isolation (the word and the concept), how that perception became grounded over the years, why it couldn't be more untru…

1
Sravana Borkataky-Varma on Tantra, Subtle Bodies, Ritual, Prana, and Esalen 41:28

3M ago41:28

41:28

Sravana Borkataky-Varma is a historian, educator, and social entrepreneur. As a historian, she studies Indian religions focusing on esoteric rituals and gender, particularly in Hindu traditions (Goddess Tantra). As an educator, she is the Instructional Assistant Professor at the University of Houston. At present, she is a Center for the Study of Wo…

1
Joyful Justice, Fierce Compassion: Dr. Kamilah Majied on Black Wisdom Traditions & Buddhist Thought 55:28

3M ago55:28

55:28

Dr. Kamilah Majied is a contemplative inclusivity and equity consultant, mental health therapist, clinical educator, researcher, and internationally engaged consultant on building inclusivity and equity using meditative practices. After 15 years of teaching at Howard University, Dr. Majied joined the faculty at California State University, Monterey…

1
'Eye Dialect' as a Contributor to Stereotype and Michael Montgomery's Research on the Written Dialect of 18th Century Documents 9:26

3M ago9:26

9:26

What did you think of this episode? Early authors used "eye dialect," or a deliberate misspelling of words that doesn't change how they sound (like "tu" for "to" or "uv" for "of.") This literary practice, based on the authors' observations of what they heard people say, was to make their Appalachian characters seem foolish or uneducated. This use o…

1
Grounded in Movement: Andrea Juhan on Encounter, Open Floor, and the Healing Power of Esalen 51:10

4M ago51:10

51:10

Dr. Andrea Juhan is a revered figure in the realms of somatic psychotherapy, dance, and yoga. With over forty years dedicated to exploring embodiment through diverse avenues—be it bodywork, somatic psychotherapy, or dance—Dr. Juhan has profoundly impacted the fields of mindful movement and therapeutic practices.Andrea is not only a licensed Marriag…

1
Talking Cherokee, Resilience and Devotion 40:19

3M ago40:19

40:19

What did you think of this episode? A Cherokee language revival is underway, thanks to the efforts of the Cherokee Nation and their communities in Oklahoma and western North Carolina. The story of Cherokee language history and the work to create Cherokee language schools and immersion communities are told in the award-winning documentary, We Will S…

1
Lola Tomlinson 27:46

4M ago27:46

27:46

Scott Sikes speaks with Phil Blevins about Lola Tomlinson's oral history. This aired on WEHC, May 1, 2024.By WEHC

1
Goodridge Wilson 24:28

4M ago24:28

24:28

Scott Sikes speaks with Jenna Lee Vargus about Jenna Lee Vargus' oral history. This aired on WEHC, April 24, 2024.By WEHC

1
The Burial Ground in the Woods Part II 28:01

4M ago28:01

28:01

What did you think of this episode? How do ghosts speak through their artifacts? As we continue the story of the burial ground in the woods, I'm joined by Dr. Angela Washington, my co-researcher and family. We talk about the chilling death portrait that proved to be our starting point, the coverlet supposedly woven by enslaved women linking the lan…

1
Robert Lampkins part 2 26:57

4M ago26:57

26:57

Scott Sikes speaks with Mary Lampkins about Robert Lampkin's oral history. This aired on WEHC, April 17, 2024.By WEHC

1
The Burial Ground in the Woods 31:58

4M ago31:58

31:58

What did you think of this episode? What secrets does a 19th century burial ground hold, when the stones have no words or dates, and family folklore says they belonged to enslaved people? In this episode, I'm joined by William Isom II of Black in Appalachia, my co-researcher on this burial ground project for the past ten years. For almost two centu…

1
#26 Myth-Busting Misconceptions About Appalachia 36:46

5M ago36:46

36:46

On this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy along with her guests, Dr. Theresa Burriss (Emory & Henry College), Jane Sage, FNP, and Dr. Paige Billman (Tri-Area Community Health), shed light on the diverse and dynamic nature of Appalachia. Together, they dispute the monolithic stereotype of Appalachian culture and delve into the intricacies of Appalachia…

1
Robert Lampkins, part 1 27:01

5M ago27:01

27:01

Scott Sikes speaks with Mary Lampkins about Robert Lampkin's oral history. This aired on WEHC, April 10, 2024.By WEHC

1
African American History of the California Bay Area with Jan Batiste Adkins 40:32

5M ago40:32

40:32

In recent times, an essential piece of our nation’s history is facing challenges and censorship across the country, making it all the more crucial we reaffirm our commitment to honoring and understanding our shared narrative. Our discussion today is not just a journey through the past; it's a conversation about the importance of preserving these na…

1
Talking Appalachian in Ireland 23:38

5M ago23:38

23:38

What did you think of this episode? Join us in beautiful Ireland where we learn about a town with two names (Londonderry/Derry), an Irishman's take on "hillbilly," familiar words and pronunciations, and a primitive alphabet inspired by trees. Support the Show. *Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and review us (if you like it)! *Support the sh…

1
Nancy Fullen, part 2 32:37

5M ago32:37

32:37

Scott Sikes speaks with Kathy Shearer about Nancy Fullen's oral history. This aired on WEHC, April 3, 2024.By WEHC

1
#25 Myth-Busting Nutrition with VCHA Dietitian, Adrienne Harden 40:24

5M ago40:24

40:24

On this enlightening episode of CommonHealth, host Tracy Douglas chats with VCHA's Nutritionist and Registered Dietician, Adrienne Harden. Adrienne shares her knowledge and hacks on how to have a balanced, nutritious diet, and myth-busts what we think we know about eating well. She also teaches listeners how to stop feeling guilt or shame after eat…

1
Bayo Akomolafe on Tricksterism, Post Activism, and Artificial Intelligence 42:24

5M ago42:24

42:24

Bayo Akomolafe is an author, teacher, and modern philosopher whose work challenges the boundaries of conventional thought. Bayo was born in 1983 into a Christian home to Yoruban parents in western Nigeria. Soon after he was born, his family moved to Bonn, Germany, to accommodate his diplomat father. While in Zaire, Bayo’s father passed away suddenl…

1
Nancy Fullen, part 1 29:19

5M ago29:19

29:19

Scott Sikes speaks with Kathy Shearer about Nancy Fullen's oral history. This aired on WEHC, March 27, 2024.By WEHC

1
The Woodcarver 24:58

5M ago24:58

24:58

What did you think of this episode? The sisters remembered her "witchy" looking dolls, but they were forever haunted by that one day when the woodcarver's knife nearly took their mother's life. In this episode, I retell a chilling story told to me by my great-grandmother and her sisters...one that has given me nightmares. But it's also a story abou…

1
Stephen Dubner: Freakonomics, Feynman, AI, and the Future of Work 39:52

5M ago39:52

39:52

Stephen Dubner is the New York Times best-selling author and host of the podcast Freakonomics. I met Stephen when he and his Freakonomics crew came to Esalen for an on-site interview that centered around deceased Nobel Prize winner and occasional Esalen lecturer Richard Feynman. Feynman assisted in the development of the atomic bomb during World Wa…

1
#24 Supporting the Mental Health and Well-Being of Our Providers With Melina Davis 39:49

5M ago39:49

39:49

In this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy talks with Melina Davis, CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia (MSV), about the SafeHaven Program, which supports the needs of clinicians struggling with stress, burnout, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen as Melina discusses why this program is necessary, and the wonders it's working for medica…

1
#23 Prostate Cancer – From Screening to Treatment, With Dr. Mark Fleming 31:38

6M ago31:38

31:38

In this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy talks with Dr. Mark Fleming, a board-certified medical oncologist, about the importance of getting screened and tested for prostate cancer. Dr. Fleming offers insight into his personal connection to the disease, emphasizing his mission to provide state-of-the-art care for the vulnerable communities served by c…

1
Voices from Appalachia-beginning March 2024 0:42

6M ago0:42

0:42

Voices from Appalachia-beginning March 2024 The show will broadcast on WEHC Emory and WISE-FM Wise, Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m.By WEHC

1
What Two Letters a Century Apart Tell Us About the Writers' Home Voices 28:19

6M ago28:19

28:19

What did you think of this episode? Listen to the voice of John Gregory, a Civil War infantryman writing home from a cold, February campsite in 1862, a year before he would die at Gettysburg. Then, listen to the voice of Cordia Nichols, a woman diagnosed with tuberculosis in 1959 and recovering in the Catawba Sanitorium. John's letter allows us to …

1
#22 Voices From the Commonwealth: Katie Collett's Journalism Journey 49:40

7M ago49:40

49:40

In our latest episode, Tracy Douglas, VCHA's CEO, welcomes WAVY-TV (Channel 10) morning and midday news anchor, Katie Collett, who shares her journey from being a small-town girl with dreams of journalism to a prominent news reporter - an inspiring story about overcoming obstacles, connecting with and reporting on a diverse, rural community, and th…

1
Three Reasons Why You Can be Proud of Your Dialect (Plus a Discussion of 'Sworp' and 'Watch for Deer') 18:24

7M ago18:24

18:24

What did you think of this episode? If you've ever found yourself in the position of having to defend your accent or dialect, or if you're an educator who wants to support your students' home voices but you're not sure whether you can do that while teaching standard English, this one is for you. We'll cover three (among many) justifications for App…

1
Our Ancient Kinship with the Wild: A Conversation with Noël Vietor & Fletcher Tucker of Wildtender 1:00:24

7M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

In this particular moment, there is a call to reawaken our inherent belonging to the Earth and to cultivate a relationship with the land that is based on mutual respect, deep listening, and coexistence. Wildtender answers that call. Noël Vietor and Fletcher Tucker are co-founders of Wildtender. They offer immersive wilderness programs that cultivat…

1
A Conversation with Pulitzer Winning Southern Writer Rick Bragg (Part II) 24:01

7M ago24:01

24:01

What did you think of this episode? In Part II of my conversation with one of my favorite writers, Pulitzer-winning southern writer and journalist Rick Bragg, he talks about some of the news stories that haunt him. He also gives both teachers and students his best advice for becoming a journalist or novelist...what to do and definitely what not to …

1
A Conversation with Pulitzer Winning Southern Writer Rick Bragg (Part I) 40:58

7M ago40:58

40:58

What did you think of this episode? Author Rick Bragg is a true storyteller. Though his work as a Pulitzer-winning journalist at the New York Times took him all over the world, the Alabama native came back home in his memoir writing. His books such as Ava's Man (my favorite), All Over But the Shoutin' (another favorite) The Best Cook in the World (…

1
Vertical Vibrations: Laraaji's Dance with Time, Music, and Cosmic Laughter - Live at Esalen 1:11:08

7M ago1:11:08

1:11:08

Laraaji is often thought of as one of progenitors of new age music. He was discovered by Brian Eno while playing meditational music in Washington Square Park in the early 1980's. After studying classical composition at Howard University’s College of Fine arts from 1962 to 1964, Laraaji was initially drawn to the world of stand-up comedy, which he e…

1
New Year's Eve Superstitions and Foods, Old Christmas, and the Word "Untelling" 12:38

8M ago12:38

12:38

What did you think of this episode? It's "untelling" what 2024 will bring, but in this episode we'll talk about why you should eat black- eyed peas on New Year's Eve, why you shouldn't do housework on New Year's Day, and why some people refuse to take down their trees until Old Christmas on January 6th. We'll also explore the word "untelling," our …

1
Harmonizing with the Uncanny: Sam Recaps 2023 and AI's Surreal Audio Innovations 41:44

8M ago41:44

41:44

Good gracious. 2023 was a heck of a year: Not only did Voices of Esalen pass the 1 million download marker, yes indeed, but we had a host of superb guests, and I managed to make friends with the AI and not get replaced - yet.Beyond the walls of Esalen, 2023 was a little terrifying - by all accounts it was the hottest year in recorded history; accor…

1
Terence McKenna, Rupert Sheldrake and Ralph Abraham: Trialogue at Esalen, 9/8/89 Pt. 1 54:56

8M ago54:56

54:56

Please note that Terence McKenna spools forth a kind of complicated, highly erudite babble of text that is designed to be imbibed or absorbed in an almost osmotic fashion. His words don’t necessarily need to be decoded; they can simply be enjoyed, for their texture, for their sound, and absolutely for their message, though the message is often so a…

1
#21 Changing Course: A Student’s Journey From Science to Healthcare 45:45

9M ago45:45

45:45

On this episode of CommonHealth, Tracy Douglas sits down with her son, Alec, a student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). Alec talks with Tracy about his decision to pursue a degree in medicine at a "non-traditional" age, the sacrifices a medical student has to make, and his passions in the field. Tracy and Alec also candid…

1
Fixin' to, the A-Prefix and Twelve Days of Christmas, and an Excerpt from Verna Mae Slone's "How We Talked" 11:02

8M ago11:02

11:02

What did you think of this episode? In this episode, I research the history of "Fixin' to" (as in "I'm fixin' to put up the holiday decorations.) Add the very old (middle English) dialect feature "a-prefix" and you've got "I'm a-fixin' to put up the holiday decorations.) Then, I'll tell you about the link between our dialect and "The Twelve Days of…

1
Voices of Unity: Advancing Psychedelic Justice with Bia Labate 51:06

9M ago51:06

51:06

Dr. Bia Labate is a queer Brazilian anthropologist and Executive director of the Chacruna Insitute for Plant Medicines. She also serves as Public Education and Culture Specialist at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies. Chacruna promotes reciprocity in the psychedelic community, and supports the protection of sacred plants and …

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Appalachias Voice Podcasts

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