BIG MAMA HEX

This is the first episode of my new series, BIG MAMA HEX PODCAST - SPIRITED, chats on religion and spirituality, I sit down (virtually) with friend, Ethan Rode. Ethan is a practicing jew with a very wonderful story of connection to his beliefs through his familial history. He is also a recent graduate of Queen's University in Canada where he studied linguistics and politics, with specific interests in language revitalization and Spanish literature. Originally from Mohnton, PA, he grew up immersed in PA Dutch culture and language with his grandparents on his dad's side of the family and ultimately learned to speak the language starting at around age 11. He currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and works freelance in proofreading, transcribing and teaching Detisch (remotely) at Berks History Center. https://www.berkshistory.org/pa-dutch-classes/

I interviewed my husband, Hunter M. Yoder. He's an incredible artist and huge influence on my art and my journey to find my roots. Find out more about Hunter atwww.huntermyoder.com

In episode 35 I sit down (virtually) with Gail Kessler of Ladyfingers Sewing Studio in Oley. We talk about growing up PA Dutch and her journey to owning and operating Ladyfingers. We also, of course, talk about our love for the Oley Valley!Links:ladyfingerssewing.comhttps://www.facebook.com/LadyfingersSewingStudioandoverfabrics.com

In episode 33 I am chatting with friend, fellow Deitscher and artist, Ben Rader! We talk about art, culture and music. It was a blast catching up with Ben and learning more about his childhood and life before we knew him. Check out his links below!Learn more:https://www.benjaminrader.com/https://www.instagram.com/benjaminraderart/https://www.facebook.com/benjaminraderartMountain Mary Exhibit at PAGCHC:https://www.pagerman.org/heritage-center.../mountain-mary/

In episode 32 I am chatting with Robert Joseph Jones, new friend and owner of the amazing shop, Ysbrydoliaeth - Curiosity Shop / Magasin de curiosités. We discussed our shared backgrounds of Welsh and Deitsch along with Welsh identity, Robert's background in languages as well as teaching and writing poetry.Robert Jones, comes originally from Monroe County in northeastern Pennsylvania born of a Pennsylvania-German and Welsh family. He spent much of his formative years with his maiden aunts who were among the last of the Victorians and practiced Braucherei, Pennsylvania-German folk magic. He spent many years teaching French, German, Spanish, linguistics and literature at a small community college in Central New York before relocating to Lunenburg in the Northeast Kingdom with his spouse and three Cardigan Welsh Corgis (Marigold, Hibiscus and Wisteria).During his previous career, he spent a great deal of time traveling, especially to Wales, and New Orleans where he went to collaborate with harpist, journalist and renowned inn-keeper Barbara Lefèvre Martin on matters of Welsh independence. It was there that he became acquainted with Kutani pottery while wandering through the French Quarter after getting buzzed on chicory coffee at the old Café de Paris next to the Cabildo on Jackson Square. Barbara and he had many adventures in and around New Orleans that included Voodoo practitioners, visiting haunted houses, journalism, plotting and tracking down the ever elusive Bedwyr ap Dafydd, a self-exiled Welsh immigré and descendant of one of the great bardic families of Wales, the last known location of whom was a bar in the Lower 9th Ward before Hurricane Katrina. On his trips to Wales he became friends with Mary Jones (no relation) and her sister Olwen Thomas of Tai'n Lôn, a remote farming village in the foothills of the Snowdonia Mountains where English was rarely spoken. He made the region his base to travel elsewhere in Europe including Brittany, England, Catalonia, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, France, and Spain.Even his connection to Argentina comes through Wales. In the Chubut Province of Patagonia is Gwladfa, a Welsh colony from whence hails the former editor of the Welsh North-American newspaper Ninnau for which Robert wrote off-and-on for many years beginning in the 1980's.Learn more:https://curiosityshop.us/speakwelsh.orghttps://www.madog.org/https://www.facebook.com/ysbrydoliaethhttps://www.instagram.com/ysbrydoliaeth71/The documentary that I was speaking about: The Story of Wales by BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00mlrq9The Welsh poet that I quoted: Gwyneth Lewishttp://www.gwynethlewis.com/index.shtmlGraphic Designer for Ysbrydoliaeth:https://flekvt.com/

In this episode I sit down with Rachael and Gene Kehler. I met Rachael years ago at her old fashioned candy shop in Boyertown, The Peppermint Stick. She is a wonderful person and we got along instantly! I never forgot her great energy and spirit. So when I found out she had become the president of The Boyertown Historical Society, I reached out to her to interview her about her work with them and about her candy shop. Little did I know that her husband Gene and she owned a farm, One Foot Farm! Gene is also on the board at The Boyertown Historical Society and together they're brought new life into the well respected non-profit. Gene also owns Pennsylvania Craftsmen Construction Company, where he blends 18th century craftsmanship with 21st century techniques.A wonderful couple, full of energy and an incredible work ethic! So excited to share this episode and introduce you all to these two and their amazing work.http://Www.peppermintstickcandystore.com/https://www.facebook.com/PeppermintStickCandyStorehttp://www.boyertownhistory.org/https://www.facebook.com/BoyertownAreaHistoricalSocietyhttp://pacraftsmen.com/https://www.facebook.com/Pennsylvania-Craftsmen-Construction-Company-939857876177517

In episode 31 I sit down (virtually) with new friend, Ethan Rode. Ethan is a recent graduate of Queen's University in Canada where he studied linguistics and politics, with specific interests in language revitalization and Spanish literature. Originally from Mohnton, PA, he grew up immersed in PA Dutch culture and language with his grandparents on his dad's side of the family and ultimately learned to speak the language starting at around age 11. He currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada with his partner and works freelance in proofreading and transcribing.https://www.instagram.com/ethanjrode/

https://www.facebook.com/47arthttps://www.instagram.com/acheybelly/Donate: https://www.sophiaphila.org/

In episode 27, I sat down with Jack Montgomery! Jack is an author, American Shamans, speaker and singer/songwriter. We talk about his initial interests in community healers while doing fieldwork in regional folk religions for a course in Religion and Anthropology that evolved into a life-long pursuit. He also shares stories of his time with Lee Gandee during his field work. Also, Jack talks about the time he spent with Patrick Donmoyer visiting the Oley Valley.You can purchase his book directly through Jack via his Facebook page or on Amazon: American Shamans: Journeys with Traditional Healershttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B003Y74RUA/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_86XBE0F98A50AWY82GY7Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=41116310

In episode 26 I sit down with Kathleen Walck, friend, art educator, craftswoman, shop owner, and we talk about her new adventure, and shop, Local Folk Creative Studio. Also her amazing embroidery work under Walnut and Laurel. It's so fun to catch up with this creative sister and do check out her amazing new shop and classes in Kutztown with the links below.https://www.local-folk.com/www.walnutandlaurel.com

In episode 24, kindred spirit, Adam Kissinger, and have a wonderful chat about all things Deitsch, punk rock, cultural heritage, theater, Alba Method and being a creative! A wonderful chat!! Check out Adam, he's an incredible and witty human!Acting: www.lancasteractingschool.comRad Scrapple:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoD4c9Q8dwQaeX8kacxE6yQAlba:www.facebook.com/BreatheForwardMusic:adamkissinger.bandcamp.com

In episode 25 I sit down with friend and fellow Deitscher, Josh R. Brown. Josh is a professor of German, linguistics, and (American) cultural studies, especially folklore studies. He's a sociolinguist and linguistic anthropologist interested primarily in heritage languages and the interaction of language and identity. He also is a lover of weaving, knitting, embroidery, and wool spinning.Check out the amazing work that Josh does here:https://www.joshuarbrown.com/https://www.bullfroginntextiles.com/

In episode 22 I sit down with friend and pastor, Inge Williams. We discuss everything from healing to culture and even playing the banjo! Inge is an amazing human and it's an episode not to be missed! Please see the links below to find out more about the work Inge does with her congregation at Friedens Church Shartlesville.

In episode 18 I sit down (virtually) with Charles Harley of Heritage Relic Hunters based in our beloved Oley Valley. We talk about growing up PA Dutch and his journey in relic hunting in our beautiful and richly historic, Oley Valley. We also, of course, talk about our love for the Manatawny Creek! Charles is a retired science teacher and also has always had a strong interest and education in environmental science which serves his relic hunting efforts so well. He also started the well loved Friends of the Manatawny facebook group which allows members to share gorgeous photos and stories of our beloved Manatawny Creek.

In episode 21 I catch up with Jess McPherson. Jess is a self identified artist, teacher, student, hard-worker and community member. She is both PA Dutch and Native American and we discuss the intersection of those backgrounds, the work she's doing in social impact strategy and also, of course, art and all it's therapeutic ways of working in our practices.LINKS:http://jessmcpherson.com/index.html

In episode 20 I sit down (virtually) to chat with Len Smith. Len is a video producer who created a beautiful film in the 90's called Expressions of Common Hands-Folk Art of the Pennsylvania Dutch. It included many favorite and legendary PA Dutch folk artists at that time including Ivan Hoyt, Johnny Claypoole and Eric Claypoole. He recently followed that project up with an updated exploration of hex signs and hex sign painters called, Myths & Legends: Hex Signs of the Pennsylvania Dutch (2018). Len contacted me to be a part of the new project and I was beyond humbled to be included with the other contemporary painters that I have looked up to and appreciated their work for years. Please check out the trailer for the film and support it and Len's incredible efforts to share our amazing folk traditions of the PA Dutch.Trailer:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ik4418Eyc8Purchase the film:https://turning-point-media.square.site/product/myths-legends-hex-signs-of-the-pennsylvania-dutch/5?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=falsehttps://www.masthof.com/products/pennsylvania-dutch-hex-signs-myths-and-legends-dvd?variant=34765565558947Len's youtube channel:https://www.youtube.com/user/TheFolklifeChronicleTake 2 Alpacas:http://take2alpacas.com/Other show related links:http://4turningpoint.com/www.discoverlehighvalley.com/listing/pennsylvania-dutch-hex-tour/3284/www.kutztownfestival.com/www.the-eck.com/

In episode 19 I catch up with Angela Izzo. She is a painter from Boyertown whom I have admired from afar for years now and finally our paths have crossed and we got a chance to know each other better. What a kindred spirit! Her artwork is funny and honest! She's a mom and works full time, but alas still finds time to create amazing art work! She's also PA Dutch and shares some funny stories of her family and growing up in the area. I'm so excited to finally "meet" Angela and can't wait to get together irl someday soon.https://www.facebook.com/AngelaIzzoArtist

In episode 17 I sit down with friend and fellow Oley Valley enthusiast, Beth Glick. Beth, her husband and their family own and run Glick's Greenhouse in Oley, Pennsylvania. Beth is also a creative, self-proclaimed, doodle artist! Her work is amazing and rooted in some brilliant Deitsch motifs. We talk about her growing up with strong Pennsylvania Dutch and Mennonite roots and being a city girl gone country, having lived in the diverse city of Reading and also on the banks of the Manatawny. We also discuss art, culture and our love for the Oley Valley (particularly the Manatawny Creek). It was such a treat to get to know Beth better and also share her stories of growing up Deitsch/Mennonite in Reading and the Oley Valley.Learn more about Beth's work at:https://www.facebook.com/BethForneyGlickhttps://www.facebook.com/bethglickdoodleartGlick's Greenhouse: https://www.facebook.com/GlicksGreenhouse

Thanks to Mervin for sitting down to talk with me about Johnny Ott!

One episode 14 I sit down with Mandy Richardson.

Carol is a dear friend that I know from the Dolpehock Sanger Chor (PA Dutch only singing chor). She's the accompanist to the chor as well as Organist at North Heidelberg UCC. Carol's family is 100% PA Dutch and she's aDieffenbach of the Dieffenbach Organs as well as the most famous potato chips!Carol's grandfather was Victor C. Dieffenbach, a Pennsylvania German columnist for the Lebanon Daily News, wrote under the pen name of “Der Alt Bauer” (The Old Farmer) for a number of years. For over 35 years he entertained his readers with his poetry and articles, many of which are reprinted in the book, DER ALT BAUER HOT EPPES ZU SAAGE (co-editors C. Richard Beam and Jennifer L. Trout, available at Masthof press, link below).Carol studied at Millersville University where she met Richard Beam and they developed a life-long friendship through his familiarity with her family and grandfather and her interest in learning more about her Deitsch culture.Carol continues to work on preserving her family's legacy of amazing organs as well as advancing the participation of the larger community to learn more about the Detisch culture and language. In a way taking the torch from her grandfather's work and continued that invaluable work! We enjoyed a lovely chat about all of her experiences in the Bauerei and her work within the Deitsch community.https://www.masthof.com/products/der-alt-bauer-hot-eppes-zu-saagehttps://www.facebook.com/DieffenbachOrganPreservationSociety1/https://www.facebook.com/Pennsylvania-German-Hour-469678339764796/https://www.bctv.org/program/pennsylvania-german/

Episode 20 I catch up with friend @chrislarosemusic , the other half of The Broken Spokes. One the the most sincere and authentic people I know! Chris is an incredible musician and maker. He's got a very natural creative spirit. We talk about music, being PA Dutch, being indigenous, how his creative parents influenced his commitment to living authentically, collaborating with Doug Madenford and his wonderful creative partnership with his love, Emily. We also talk about the hope we have for what comes after this wild year of COVID!A real enchanted talk between two creatives! Enjoy!https://www.chrislarosemusic.com/4https://www.facebook.com/XopherLaRosehttps://www.facebook.com/LaRoseHatCohttps://www.facebook.com/BrokenSpokesPAhttps://www.facebook.com/HexHighwayBluesBandListen to Chris' interview with our friend Doug on his podcast:https://dougsfrontporch.buzzsprout.com/1022749/5189170-10-chris-larose

In episode 10 I catch up with friend and distant cousin, Douglas Madenford. He and I have collaborated on two children's books, PennyOlive and Davey Applebutter. I have also designed he and ChrisLaRose's album art and cd art for their self titled, The Broken Spokes album. He is a dear friend and Bruder in all things Deitsch! A born educator and leader, Doug has done a massive amount of work to further people's understanding of all things Deitsch through his youtube channel, film, books, music and podcast. He does it to keep our amazing culture alive for the generations to come! Find out all about what Doug has done and is doing in the future! Don't forget to check out the links below and follow and enjoy his Wunnerbaar content!Find Doug on the web:http://padutch101.comhttps://www.youtube.com/c/dmadenfordSupport the page:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dougmadenfordFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/douglas.madenfordhttps://www.facebook.com/dougsfrontporchhttps://www.facebook.com/BrokenSpokesPABooks & Film:https://www.masthof.com/search?type=product&q=Douglas+J.+Madenfordhttp://www.hiwwewiedriwwe.com/en/buy-the-movie/Podcasts:https://dougsfrontporch.buzzsprout.com/https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1335955.rss

In episode 8 I catch up with friend, Dr. Michael Werner. Dr. Werner studied PhD Linguistics at Universität Mannheim - University of Mannheim. He is from Ebertsheim, Germany and currently lives in Ober-Olm, Germany with his wife and three daughters. He founded Hiwwe wie Driwwe (translates to 'over here as over there') 25 years ago! "Hiwwe wie Driwwe" is the only Pennsylvania German newspaper and a non-profit project. We discuss many aspects of how PA Dutch are so similar to their counterparts in the Palatinate in Germany. And also how they differ. Dr. Werner has been instrumental in building a bridge between the two places and similar cultures. We are so grateful for his support and for highlighting how important the work of the Deitsch or PA Dutch is to both us and to the Germans of the Palatinate. A wonderful conversation with a very important leader in our community! Links: https://hiwwewiedriwwe.wordpress.com/

In episode 9 I have a wonderful chat with artist/craftsman Geoff Davis! Geoff is a maker of lots of wonderful things! A printer, woodcarver, leathersmith, boatbuilder, luthier and naturalist. He is a Deitscher of our diaspora with a studio based in downtown Noblesville, IN. Geoff is also a teacher of workshops at his studio. He was featured in a beautiful short film 50 Little Birds (2020) about both his art and his life. It's a beautiful and moving piece about humanity, wilderness and the mind. While we chatted we discovered we are most certainly related on our Welsh side and of course the Oley Valley Dietsch side as well. Visit the GB Davis Folk Art website for more information and give him a follow! https://www.gbdavisfolkart.com/

In episode 13 I chat with Keith Brintzenhoff, a dear friend and leader in our community! We talk about everything from Keith's early inspiration to his creative process. We talk about der Belsnickel, music, art, language and many other Wunnerbaar schtuff! Enjoy!Find Keith: http://toadcreekmusic.com/https://www.fireflybookstore.com/https://lyonsfiddle.com/https://pamusicsociety.org/

In this episode, I have a Wunnerbaar conversation with my Deitsch sister Susan Hess. She is an herbalist The Still Room at Pitch Pines, and all around PA Dutch goddess. We talk growing up PA Dutch, her amazing work as an herbalist and writer. Learn more about Susan at http://stillroomatpitchpines.com/

In this episode, I visit my friend Candace Perry, the curator of collections at The Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center. We talk growing up PA Dutch in Robesonia and her amazing work curating the collection at The Schwenkfelder. If you haven't been- I highly recommend going immediately! It's a wonderful collection and wonderful folks! http://www.schwenkfelder.com/**Sorry for the audio, we were a bit close and there is some echoing throughout the interview

On my third episode, I interview Justin Schmoyer, Psychic Medium. He's a Deitsch brother and relative to me on my grandmother's side. We talk all things spiritual, Deitsch and living life to the fullest from the most mundane to the most profound moments! Find out more about Justin at: https://www.instagram.com/justin_schmoyer/

WILKUM!

On my second episode, I interview Chef Steve Stetzler. He's the owner and chef at Deitsch Eck (Dutch Corner) in Lenhartsville, PA. A fascinating gem in Deitsch folk life with gut esse (good eating) and fantastic art by Johnny Ott and Ivan Hoyt. Find out more about Chef Steve and the Deitsch Eck at https://www.the-eck.com/

On my first episode, I interview my husband, Hunter M. Yoder. He's an incredible artist and huge influence on my art and my journey to find my roots. Find out more about Hunter at www.huntermyoder.com

In episode 32, I get a chance to interview a friend, an amazing contributor to the modern research landscape in Pennsylvania Dutch studies, Alexander Lawrence Ames. He is an intellectual historian, material culture scholar, and library and museum professional based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With interests in the religious and cultural history of early America, Ames's research has explored the production and use of religious books and manuscripts in Pennsylvania and beyond, with a special focus on unlocking how the material construction of historic books and manuscripts impacted their dissemination, use, and preservation as cultural artifacts. Ames also studies the history of libraries, archives, and the art of ex-libris, having published several essays in these varied fields. Ames holds a B.S. in information media and an M.A. in public history from St. Cloud State University (St. Cloud, Minnesota), as well as an M.A. in American material culture, an M.A. in history, and a Ph.D. in history of American civilization and museum studies from the University of Delaware. He works as Director of Outreach & Engagement at the Rosenbach Museum & Library, an historic house museum and special collections library affiliated with the Free Library of Philadelphia.*Correction: The theme music for Cloister Talk Season 4: Pathways in Pennsylvania German studies is the Kyrie from the Mass in B Minor by Johann Sebastian Bach. The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania gave the first performance of the Mass in America in 1900. https://www.wordinwilderness.com

In episode 13 I catch up with my friend and client, Sarah Linsenmaier. Sarah is a homesteader, herb farmer, chef and enchanted steward of her place and land. She and her husband Adam are currently working on renovating a property they have named Iron Rabbit Run. Iron Rabbit Run sits just inside the city of Reading and along the (former) Gravity Rail Road line. Sarah and I talk about her love of plants, herbs and cooking as well as her wild childhood influencing her love and stewardship of the land. She also shares the story of her home and how she and her husband Adam came to live there. And a whole lot of good stuff about their plans for this incredible and magical land in the future to be revived as a community hub for learning about homesteading and growing food to consume. A very magical conversation about hope and perseverance! Very excited to follow Sarah and Adam and watch their story continue. Check out the link below to learn more.https://www.instagram.com/ironrabbitrun/https://www.facebook.com/IronRabbitRunLLC

In episode 7 I catch up with friend, Ruthie Kølle. Ruthie studies and practices the art of herbalism from her home in the wooded hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. She lives in a cabin that is situated on the northern hem of my family's 8th generation farm which occupies Lenape land. Her passion is to reconnect with and integrate traditional methods of healing into our modern lives. She is the sole proprietress of Mother Hylde's Herbal and has been studying folk and clinical herbalism since 2012. She is also a licensed massage therapist and has been practicing bodywork since 2005. We talk about everything from Elderberry to stays and the empowerment of being fully present in your body! A wonderful conversation with a goddess among us!http://motherhylde.com/https://www.etsy.com/shop/MotherHyldesHerbalhttps://www.facebook.com/motherhyldesherbalhttps://www.instagram.com/motherhylde/https://sharonblackie.net/join-sisters-of-rock-and-root/https://www.themythicmasculine.com/

In episode 57, I get a chance to interview a friend, an amazing contributor to the modern research landscape in Pennsylvania Dutch studies, Alexander Lawrence Ames. He is an intellectual historian, material culture scholar, and library and museum professional based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With interests in the religious and cultural history of early America, Ames's research has explored the production and use of religious books and manuscripts in Pennsylvania and beyond, with a special focus on unlocking how the material construction of historic books and manuscripts impacted their dissemination, use, and preservation as cultural artifacts. Ames also studies the history of libraries, archives, and the art of ex-libris, having published several essays in these varied fields. Ames holds a B.S. in information media and an M.A. in public history from St. Cloud State University (St. Cloud, Minnesota), as well as an M.A. in American material culture, an M.A. in history, and a Ph.D. in history of American civilization and museum studies from the University of Delaware. He works as Director of Outreach & Engagement at the Rosenbach Museum & Library, an historic house museum and special collections library affiliated with the Free Library of Philadelphia.*Correction: The theme music for Cloister Talk Season 4: Pathways in Pennsylvania German studies is the Kyrie from the Mass in B Minor by Johann Sebastian Bach. The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania gave the first performance of the Mass in America in 1900. The full recording of the Mass may be heard here.Information:https://www.wordinwilderness.com/Purchase the book:https://www.psupress.org/books/titles/978-0-271-08590-6.htmlCloister Talk:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cloister-talk-the-pennsylvania-german-material-texts/id1519784818The Rosenbach:https://rosenbach.org/

In episode 56 I am chatting with friend, fellow Deitscher and artist, Ben Rader! We talk about art, culture and music. It was a blast catching up with Ben and learning more about his childhood and life before we knew him. Check out his links below!Learn more:https://www.benjaminrader.com/https://www.instagram.com/benjaminraderart/https://www.facebook.com/benjaminraderartMountain Mary Exhibit at PAGCHC:https://www.pagerman.org/heritage-center.../mountain-mary/

In episode 12 I chat with Dave Kline, a dear friend and leader in our community! We talk about everything from Dave's early inspiration to his creative process. It's a longer episode but a very enjoyable listen as Dave always presents live through a positive framework! Enjoy. Find Dave: http://www.mountainfolk.com/the-mountain-folk-band/ https://www.facebook.com/mountainfolktheaterofthemind/https://www.facebook.com/dave.kline.547https://mountainfolk.podbean.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH0nX_C7GmrWxql6yFjsHDQ/featuredhttps://www.instagram.com/thereport1/

In episode 13 I chat with Keith Brintzenhoff, a dear friend and leader in our community! We talk about everything from Keith's early inspiration to his creative process. We talk about der Belsnickel, music, art, language and many other Wunnerbaar schtuff! Enjoy! Find Keith: http://toadcreekmusic.com/https://www.fireflybookstore.com/https://www.masthof.com/products/alde-deitsche-lieder-a-collection-of-pennsylvania-german-folk-songs-cd?_pos=1&_sid=cea6e2cb2&_ss=rhttps://lyonsfiddle.com/https://pamusicsociety.org/

In episode 46 Patrick Donmoyer, artist, author, and director at The Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center have a wonderful talk about all things Mountain Mary, folklife and culture. Please visit the links to learn more about what we were talking about.Mountain Mary: Contemporary Visions of the Sainted HealerA Virtual Exhibition of Old and New Artistic Works and Artifacts at the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center, Kutztown University.www.pagerman.orgDon Yoder:https://www.kutztown.edu/.../a-century-of-don-yoder...Kutztown University Foundationhttps://www.kuf.org/Kutztown Folk Festhttps://www.kutztownfestival.com/

In episode 55 I am chatting with Robert Joseph Jones, new friend and owner of the amazing shop, Ysbrydoliaeth - Curiosity Shop / Magasin de curiosités. We discussed our shared backgrounds of Welsh and Deitsch along with Welsh identity, Robert's background in languages as well as teaching and writing poetry.Robert Jones, comes originally from Monroe County in northeastern Pennsylvania born of a Pennsylvania-German and Welsh family. He spent much of his formative years with his maiden aunts who were among the last of the Victorians and practiced Braucherei, Pennsylvania-German folk magic. He spent many years teaching French, German, Spanish, linguistics and literature at a small community college in Central New York before relocating to Lunenburg in the Northeast Kingdom with his spouse and three Cardigan Welsh Corgis (Marigold, Hibiscus and Wisteria). During his previous career, he spent a great deal of time traveling, especially to Wales, and New Orleans where he went to collaborate with harpist, journalist and renowned inn-keeper Barbara Lefèvre Martin on matters of Welsh independence. It was there that he became acquainted with Kutani pottery while wandering through the French Quarter after getting buzzed on chicory coffee at the old Café de Paris next to the Cabildo on Jackson Square. Barbara and he had many adventures in and around New Orleans that included Voodoo practitioners, visiting haunted houses, journalism, plotting and tracking down the ever elusive Bedwyr ap Dafydd, a self-exiled Welsh immigré and descendant of one of the great bardic families of Wales, the last known location of whom was a bar in the Lower 9th Ward before Hurricane Katrina. On his trips to Wales he became friends with Mary Jones (no relation) and her sister Olwen Thomas of Tai'n Lôn, a remote farming village in the foothills of the Snowdonia Mountains where English was rarely spoken. He made the region his base to travel elsewhere in Europe including Brittany, England, Catalonia, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, France, and Spain. Even his connection to Argentina comes through Wales. In the Chubut Province of Patagonia is Gwladfa, a Welsh colony from whence hails the former editor of the Welsh North-American newspaper Ninnau for which Robert wrote off-and-on for many years beginning in the 1980's.Learn more:https://curiosityshop.us/speakwelsh.orghttps://www.madog.org/https://www.facebook.com/ysbrydoliaethhttps://www.instagram.com/ysbrydoliaeth71/The documentary that I was speaking about: The Story of Wales by BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00mlrq9The Welsh poet that I quoted: Gwyneth Lewishttp://www.gwynethlewis.com/index.shtmlGraphic Designer for Ysbrydoliaeth:https://flekvt.com/

In episode 54 I finally get a chance to sit down with local friend Jillian Magee. Jillian is the Executive Director at Boyertown Area Historical Society. She was previously employed at Building A Better Boyertown as their Main Street Manager. She lives in Boyertown with her fiancé, Ryan, who is a Boyertown-native. Jillian graduated from Drexel University's Arts Administration and Museum Leadership program. As the new Executive Director, she has lots of plans for the Boyertown Historical Society including new exhibits, programs, and so much more. She's eager to share all the wonderful things that make Boyertown so special.https://boyertownhistory.org/Follow:https://www.instagram.com/boyertown.historical.society/https://www.facebook.com/BoyertownAreaHistoricalSociety

In episode 53 I sit down (virtually) with new friend, Ethan Rode. Ethan is a recent graduate of Queen's University in Canada where he studied linguistics and politics, with specific interests in language revitalization and Spanish literature. Originally from Mohnton, PA, he grew up immersed in PA Dutch culture and language with his grandparents on his dad's side of the family and ultimately learned to speak the language starting at around age 11. He currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada with his partner and works freelance in proofreading and transcribing.https://www.instagram.com/ethanjrode/

In episode 52, I sat down with Ruby Von Vanity. She is a burlesque performer with @Lgrevue Looking Glass Review. She also is a model, prosthetic, and makeup artist. She resides in Pennsylvania and if you're local, you can check out their amazing performance!We talk about burlesque, creating costumes, her work in prosthetics, being a single mom, balancing creative life with mom life and work, raising empowered and informed children. Finally, Ruby shares her birth trauma story about dealing with HELLP syndrome after the birth of her daughter. Check out all the amazing things Ruby and I chatted about:Follow: https://www.instagram.com/rubyvonvanity/https://www.facebook.com/RubyVonVanityhttps://www.instagram.com/lgrevue/Check out the troop and watch the documentary: https://thelookingglassrevue.com/More information on HELLLP:https://www.preeclampsia.org/hellp-syndrome

In episode 17 I catch up with friend, Dr. Michael Werner. Dr. Werner studied PhD Linguistics at Universität Mannheim - University of Mannheim. He is from Ebertsheim, Germany and currently lives in Ober-Olm, Germany with his wife and three daughters. He founded Hiwwe wie Driwwe (translates to 'over here as over there') 25 years ago! "Hiwwe wie Driwwe" is the only Pennsylvania German newspaper and a non-profit project. We discuss many aspects of how PA Dutch are so similar to their counterparts in the Palatinate in Germany. And also how they differ. Dr. Werner has been instrumental in building a bridge between the two places and similar cultures. We are so grateful for his support and for highlighting how important the work of the Deitsch or PA Dutch is to both us and to the Germans of the Palatinate. A wonderful conversation with a very important leader in our community!Links:https://hiwwewiedriwwe.wordpress.com/https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrative-offices/pennsylvania-german-cultural-heritage-center.htmlhttps://www.mennonitischer-geschichtsverein.de/geschichte/forschungsstelle/bestand/film: http://www.hiwwewiedriwwe.com/en/https://www.masthof.com/collections/new-books/products/hiwwe-wie-driwwe-the-roots-of-the-pennsylvania-dutch-dvdhttps://www.amazon.com/-/de/dp/B08DXNK5ZS/ref=sr11_mkdeDE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=2BR811KL849CU&dchild=1&keywords=hiwwe%20wie%20driwwe&qid=1601124085&sprefix=hiwwe%2Caps%2C296&sr=8-&fbclid=IwAR1cXG2i8BqabbQwY8-CFmPrZfIo7F2PO1rwWOEG3CFuMpwY-bfEqCun2wmusic: https://newpaltzband.wordpress.com/https://www.facebook.com/newpaltzbandhttps://newpaltzband.files.wordpress.com/2018/08/pressemeldung-pfc3a4lzische-band-new-paltz-vertritt-2019-im-rahmen-des-deutschlandjahrs-usa-die-pfalz-in-pennsylvania.pdfhttps://www.wunderbar2gether.org/home

In episode 51, I sat down with Heather Zimmerman. She is the new director of the Kutztown Folk Festival and Berks County born and raised Deitscher! Heather was previously employed as the director of sales and operations for the Hampton Inn and Suites Kutztown, where she spearheaded all sales and marketing initiatives, developed partnerships with local businesses, and planned events highlighting local artists and vendors. Heather graduated from Kutztown University in 1992 with a B.A. in English.The 72nd Annual Kutztown Folk Festival is being held in Kutztown, Pennsylvania from July 2 - July 11, 2022. Please visit https://www.facebook.com/kutztownfolkfestival/ for videos, recipes, artisan spotlights, and more.Also check out the website for information and ticketing: https://www.kutztownfestival.com/My husband, Hunter, and I will be vending the fest across from the Hoe Down stage about 2 booths down from the Hard Cider on Blumme Strasse (Flower Street). This is our 7th year vending the fest. See you soon!!

In this episode, I have a Wunnerbaar conversation with my Deitsch sister Susan Hess. She is an herbalist The Still Room at Pitch Pines, and all around PA Dutch goddess. We talk growing up PA Dutch, her amazing work as an herbalist and writer. Learn more about Susan at http://stillroomatpitchpines.comI interviewed my husband, Hunter M. Yoder. He's an incredible artist and huge influence on my art and my journey to find my roots. Find out more about Hunter at www.huntermyoder.comRobert L. Schreiwer is a dear friend. He's an incredible human and huge influence on my spiritual journey. Find out more about Rob and Urglaawe athttp://site.distelfink.org/http://www.blanzeheilkunscht.com/http://www.braucherei.org/http://www.urglaawe.net/

In episode 14 I catch up with friend, Ruthie Kolle. Ruthie studies and practices the art of herbalism from her home in the wooded hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. She lives in a cabin that is situated on the northern hem of my family's 8th generation farm which occupies Lenape land. Her passion is to reconnect with and integrate traditional methods of healing into our modern lives. She is the sole proprietress of Mother Hylde's Herbal and has been studying folk and clinical herbalism since 2012. She is also a licensed massage therapist and has been practicing bodywork since 2005. We talk about everything from Elderberry to stays and the empowerment of being fully present in your body! A wonderful conversation with a goddess among us!http://motherhylde.com/https://www.etsy.com/shop/MotherHyldesHerbalhttps://www.facebook.com/motherhyldesherbalhttps://www.instagram.com/motherhylde/https://sharonblackie.net/join-sisters-of-rock-and-root/https://www.themythicmasculine.com/

Ilsa Plaisance is a witch, Urglaawerin, activist, writer, wife, dog mom, and former farmer. She and her family reside in Northwest Louisiana.Ways to connect with Ilsa: https://www.facebook.com/ilsafisher Mother Holda FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/motherholda/?ref=share Urglaawe FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Urglaawe/?ref=share TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTdnLRx5P/?k=1 Patrick Donmoyer is the director at The Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center in Kutztown, PA. Patrick is the author of numerous books and articles pertaining to Pennsylvania Dutch folk life, language, and traditions. Sharing his understanding of the folk cultural significance of the elderberry and some of his own personal experiences as well. Ways to connect with Patrick: http://www.kutztown.edu/pgchc Books: https://www.masthof.com/search?type=product&q=patrick+j++donmoyer Ruthie Kolle studies and practices the art of herbalism from her home in the wooded hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. She lives in a cabin that is situated on the northern hem of my family's 8th generation farm which occupies Lenape land. Her passion is to reconnect with and integrate traditional methods of healing into our modern lives. She is the sole proprietress of Mother Hylde's Herbal and has been studying folk and clinical herbalism since 2012. She is also a licensed massage therapist and has been practicing bodywork since 2005. Ways to connect with Ruthie http://motherhylde.com/ https://www.etsy.com/shop/MotherHyldesHerbal https://www.facebook.com/motherhyldesherbal https://www.instagram.com/motherhylde/

In episode 48 I sit down with Charlie Murphy, tattooer and folk artist out of Jim Thorpe. We talk about how amazing Pennsylvania is, the magical exchange that happens during tattooing. Energy transfer between us, as artists, and clients, and how we vet and vibe with clients when it becomes an exchange of ideas and intentions. How the meaning of our work is both defined by us (internally) but also important for our client to define/embrace what the work means to them. We talk about folk art influences and inspirations, different mediums and experimenting with different surfaces. All the good schtuff! Enjoy and follow Charlie to see his incredible interpretations of PA folk art!!Charlie's IG: https://www.instagram.com/charliemurphytattooer/ Client text line: 717-553-2201 https://www.battlefieldtattooexpo.com/ July 8-10 2022 New Location is the Gettysburg Wyndham in Gettysburg, PA https://autismyork.org/ Laceyrea's IG:https://www.instagram.com/laceyreabarrett/ Kutztown Folk Fest: https://www.kutztownfestival.com/ July 2-10 2022 https://www.instagram.com/grundsow/

In episode 47, I sat down with Jack Montgomery! Jack is an author, American Shamans, speaker and singer/songwriter. We talk about his initial interests in community healers while doing fieldwork in regional folk religions for a course in Religion and Anthropology that evolved into a life-long pursuit. He also shares stories of his time with Lee Gandee during his field work. Also, Jack talks about the time he spent with Patrick Donmoyer visiting the Oley Valley.You can purchase his book directly through Jack via his Facebook page or on Amazon: American Shamans: Journeys with Traditional Healershttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B003Y74RUA/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_86XBE0F98A50AWY82GY7Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=41116310