Podcasts about Blue Ridge

So you have a caged mated queen and a colony that needs requeening, how to make that happen (so that your special queen actually survives the process!) is what we cover today! As a thank-you, Patrons got this episode a day early and also get a bonus portion covering the vertical requeening methods that Ryan mentioned last episode plus tips and resources on introducing virgin queens. Supporting patrons keep this show on the air and keep it advertisement free!  __________________________ Not a patron yet? You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free. https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple In addition to huge gratitude, you get: Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions Input on the podcast topics Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!  If you can support the show  please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple Beekeeping at Five Apple — talk, tips, and how-to on sustainable beekeeping from the Blue Ridge mountains of Southern Appalachia. Host Leigh Wilkerson brings sixteen years of hands-on experience from her self-sustaining apiary since 2010. The podcast explores colony health, natural bee biology, IPM from organic to chemical-free approaches. Episodes go deep on seasonal management, swarm control, queen rearing, hive biology, nutrition, and sustainable genetics. Designed for beekeepers ready to go beyond the basics, with episodes for newer beekeepers too. Leigh is also a popular Zoom presenter for bee clubs and associations. Topics include specialty splits so you never buy a package again; requeening approaches; simple frame-based queen rearing;  alternative hives including Layens; building VSH genetics in your yard; and topics by request.

H1-S2 full 00:00 you 00:13 All welcome back to the program. Let's go to the WRD talk line. We'll talk to Robert in Blue Ridge. How you doing, Doing well, how are you? I'm great. What's up, man? 00:24 i'm hearing lindsey graham spent eighteen million and advertising to get a job that's going to play one hundred and seventy four thousand dollars a year can you please explain that made because i just can't agree that don't make a whole lot of sense does it that doesn't seem like a good return on investment to me i in fact i heard it was more like i was saying one per one person said they do you spend twenty seven million 00:49 I that's a lot of money. I can't buy them, Liz. I can't either. I appreciate it, Robert. Thank you very, very much. But you folks in Greenville and Spartanburg, and my listeners here, you can take something away from this, that you were the only folks in the state of South Carolina to say no to Lindsey Graham. You said, nah, baby, nah. We don't want your 01:19 Little Mermaid, Bubble Wand, Toton Self to be our Senator. In Spartanburg County, Mark Lynch won with 43 % of the vote. Lindsey Graham got 41. Greenville County, Mark Lynch got 44.89 % of the vote. Lindsey Graham got 40 % of the vote. Lindsey won in every, let me just, oh, yeah, look at this. 01:43 Yeah, Lindsey Graham winning big down in Charleston. You go to Berkeley County, Lindsey Graham winning huge there. Let's go to Lexington County, Lindsey Graham winning big there, 61%. Richland County, 63%. Let's just take a look. I mean, just go up to Cherokee. Lindsey got 52. Pickens County. Wait, this is what gets me. Pickens County. 02:11 You guys showed up and booed Lindsey Graham practically off the stage. 02:18 Right there in downtown Pickens. 02:24 And then you turn around and vote for them with 45 % of the vote. I don't get it. don't get it. Oconee County, Lindsay 51%, York County, 48, Lancaster County, 61%. I don't get it. I promise you, I don't get that. I really don't. We need change. Well, just vote for the same old guy. We appreciate that. So, I mean, that to me. 02:54 That to me is amazing. It really is. So we got six more years of Lindsey Graham, eight actually, um so to speak. Well, six and a half. um 03:08 More years of Lindy Graham. 03:12 And as much as he has, and I can't understand why people can't see it when he does it. That's the only thing. Maybe people aren't just paying attention. But Lindsey Graham will stab Donald Trump in the back. He did it just a few weeks ago with the Iran deal. Talking about how the Iran deal was bad and was going to be a victory for the Iranians. And even Donald Trump had to come out with a statement saying, you people don't even know what the deal is and you're out there talking bad about it. 03:43 If Lindsey Graham 03:47 were in any other position in the Senate, I don't think Trump would have endorsed him. I really don't. I don't think Trump would have endorsed him. But right now he's head of the Budget Committee, and he will probably be once again head of the Senate Judiciary Committee. um If he beats Dr. Annie Andrews, we'll see. But Lindsey Graham right now to Donald Trump is a necessary evil. 04:15 And I'm going to stick by my prediction that he wins this thing in November. He's going to turn on Trump. Let's go to Doug in Simpsonville. Doug, welcome. Hey, nice talking to you again. I just want to thank Word 98.9 because I think if it wasn't for you guys, ah Lindsey would have won in Greenville. ah Maybe. 04:44 You've been putting out the word, uh well, literally. anyway, I just wanted to give a tip to the hat to the whole team. Well, I appreciate that. Thank you. I wish you covered all of South Carolina. And I know some callers have come in and said, hey, King, just uh link your coverage to some other cell towers or something. I wish it was an easy solution. uh 05:14 hey i have i have disagreements with you sometimes with care etc but i'm nine percent of the issues uh... uh the ... 581 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:33:00 +0000 kzYxxHikjOv3kjk0Pw8cJbHLjFSJSkPg news The Charlie James Show Podcast news H1-S2 The Charlie James Show originates from News/Talk 989 WORD, The Upstate's #1 Talk Station, weekdays 3-7pm. Charlie tackles the topics that matter to the Carolina's. He interviews the movers and shakers while letting listeners sound off on the news of the day. 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. News https://player.amperwavepodcasting.com?feed-link=https%3A%2F%2Frss.amperwave.net%2Fv2%2Fe

A rainy spring turned into a packed season at The Barns of Rose Hill. On this Tourism Tuesday Berryville/Clarke County edition of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael catches up with Martha Reynolds, Executive Director of The Barns of Rose Hill, to walk through what's coming next — and there is a lot. Two simultaneous gallery exhibitions, a VA250 concert series tied to traditional American roots music, a folk opera that's already sold out twice, and a benefit concert from a beloved local artist on the way. Martha previews everything from Color Stories (vivid contemporary stripes) and Jackson Foster's historic tavern signs to The Quiet Vast photography exhibit to a Portuguese artist who pairs her work with QR-coded music. Plus: the Forging a Nation film series with American Legion Post 41, Jules & the Agreeables benefit concert on June 27, Larry Keel and Jon Stickley's flatpicking bluegrass on 7/11, the return of the Orange on the Blue Ridge folk opera in August, and the final stretch of a 10-year endowment campaign that wraps August 31st — every dollar matched by the Eugene B. Casey Foundation. The Barns turns 15 in September, and the gala that closes the campaign is shaping up to be the celebration of the year. IN THIS EPISODE (00:00) Why spring wasn't slow this year — and the John Prine tribute screening that brought a packed house (02:00) Color Stories — contemporary stripes through June 13 (03:00) Jackson Foster's historic tavern signs — VA250 programming opens soon in the upper gallery (04:00) The Quiet Vast — Suzanne and Chris Bowers's duo photography exhibit (June 19–August 1) (05:00) Why Suzanne's new astrophotography is worth the trip on its own (05:30) Portuguese artist Leonor Brazão — color, music, and QR codes (August–September) (06:30) Why technology in galleries deepens rather than dilutes the experience (07:30) Forging a Nation film series with American Legion Post 41 — classic Americana on the big screen, with the historical inaccuracies called out up front (09:00) Roots of a Nation concert series — supported by Virginia Humanities, running well past July 4th (09:30) Coming up: Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer's From China to Appalachia (June 19), The Hot Seats, Larry & Joe (Pan-American roots, November), and Critton Hollow String Band (11:30) Jules & the Agreeables benefit concert — June 27, sponsored by Bank of Clarke Foundation (12:30) Why a ticket doesn't keep the lights on — and why a benefit concert does (15:00) Larry Keel & Jon Stickley duo — Friday, July 11 (7/11 — easy to remember), Bluegrass & BBQ series with Jordan Springs Market, sponsor still wanted (16:30) Orange on the Blue Ridge returns in August — the folk opera that's sold out two years running (19:00) The 10-year, $100,000-a-year endowment campaign — ending August 31, dollar-for-dollar match from the Eugene B. Casey Foundation (20:00) Why a $10 gift becomes a $20 gift becomes a 15-year investment (22:30) 15th Anniversary Gala — September 19, with Furnace Mountain Duo (Morgan Morrison and Dave Van Deventer) returning home (24:00) Why The Barns calls Furnace Mountain "the house band" (24:30) Where to find everything — barnsofrosehill.org, Facebook (now 10,000+ followers), and the newsletter GALLERY EXHIBITIONS THIS SUMMER • Color Stories — through June 13 (contemporary art, vivid striped color swatches) • Jackson Foster — historic tavern signs, reclaimed wood, hand-forged hardware (VA250 programming, upper gallery, opens mid-June) • The Quiet Vast — Suzanne & Chris Bowers, duo photography exhibition including new astrophotography work (June 19–Aug 1)  • Leonor Brazão — Portuguese artist pairing color, music, and QR-coded audio experience (August–September) CONCERTS & SPECIAL EVENTS • Jules & the Agreeables benefit concert — Friday, June 27 • $30 standing, ~$50 seated • sponsored by Bank of Clarke Foundation • local wine and food truck on site • Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer: From China to Appalachia — June 19 (Roots of a Nation series) • Larry Keel & Jon Stickley duo — Friday, July 11 • Bluegrass & BBQ series with Jordan Springs Market • sponsor opportunity available • The Hot Seats — Richmond-based string band with a funky twist • Orange on the Blue Ridge — folk opera by Suni Mackall, music direction by Morgan Morrison • two dates in August • historically sells out — buy now • Larry & Joe — Pan-American roots (Venezuelan + Appalachian), November • Critton Hollow String Band — 50+ years of traditional music • Forging a Nation film series with American Legion Post 41 — screenings in June, July, and October ANNIVERSARY & ENDOWMENT • Endowment Campaign — final year of a 10-year, $100,000-a-year goal, every dollar matched by the Eugene B. Casey Foundation. Campaign ends August 31, 2026. • 15th Anniversary Gala — Friday, September 19, 2026 at The Barns, featuring Furnace Mountain Duo (Morgan Morrison and Dave Van Deventer) LINKS & RESOURCES • The Barns of Rose Hill: barnsofrosehill.org (tickets, newsletter signup at bottom of homepage) • The Barns on Facebook (10,000+ followers — best place for last-minute additions and updates) THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

В качестве подарка к 70-летию басиста Nat Reeves в мае 2025 года Ken Kitchings (владелец джаз-клуба Side Door в Олд-Лайме, штат Коннектикут) сказал, что он профинансирует запись альбома с участием любых музыкантов, которых Ривз решит пригласить. Играя и записываясь со многими выдающимися джазовыми музыкантами за свою более чем 50-летнюю карьеру, Ривз точно знал, куда обратиться и с кем связаться. Он пригласил самых дорогих джазменов.Тенор-саксофонист Eric Alexander - давний коллега, был очевидным выбором, как и трубач Eddie Henderson. А так же тромбонист Steve Davis и барабанщик Jeff 'Tain' Watts. Китчингс предложил Orrin Evans на место пианиста, Ривз согласился, и состав секстета для альбома Now In Time - Сейчас вовремя был определен.В плейлист он выбрал три свои композиции Blue Ridge, For RJ, Waltz for Ellis и один оригинал Dave's System саксофониста Эрика Александра. А также джазовые стандарты Сонни Стита, Джеки Маклина, Фараона Сандерса, Кенни Гарретта и Малгрю Миллера. И еще три стандарта добавили другие участники проекта. И того в альбоме 12 великолепных произведений сыгранных знаменитыми музыкантами. Хочу отметить оригинальную композицю Ривза Для аР.Джей, которая посвящена его дедушке Расселу Джексону и в которой лидер переходит на виолончель, как и позже в лирической Алиса в Стране чудес. Но, фишка в том, что он играет на ней пальцами, а не смычком - это редкость и думаю поэтому на обложке альбома есть виолончель. Именно такие обложки мне нравятся больше всего, где есть инструменты и сам музыкант со своей эмоцией.СЛУШАТЬ АЛЬБОМ - https://album.link/i/1878447250ORRIN EVANS - https://t.me/discor/6828EDDIE HENDERSON - https://t.me/discor/6897STEVE DAVIS - https://t.me/discor/6418ERIC ALEXANDER - https://t.me/discor/7087Лучший трек альбома в плей-листе JAZZ по-русски 9 на AppleMusic и SpotifyПоставь лайк ❤️ и подпишись на канал JAZZ по-русски https://t.me/discor

In this episode of the Crack House Chronicles Donnie and Dale take a trip down the road and discuss the Blue Ridge Savings Bank Murders. These murders, also known as the Greer bank murders, is an unsolved armed robbery and triple homicide that occurred on May 16, 2003, at the Blue Ridge Savings Bank in Greer, South Carolina. https://www.crackhousechronicles.com/ https://linktr.ee/crackhousechronicles https://www.tiktok.com/@crackhousechronicles https://www.facebook.com/crackhousechronicles Check out our MERCH! https://www.teepublic.com/user/crackhousechronicles SOURCES: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Ridge_Savings_Bank_murders#Suspects https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/greer-south-carolina-murders-bank-robbery https://open.spotify.com/show/0jnEwNOQY0M2qDi6H5uYR7  

In the late 1600's, Dr. John Lederer, a German immigrant to the Virginia colony, became one of the first Europeans to explore the Appalachian region. Between 1669 and 1670, Lederer made three trips into the Blue Ridge Mountains, traveled west and south through Native territories in Virginia and the Carolinas, and searched for a passage west through the Alleghenies.Along the way he encountered wolves, rattlesnakes, deadly spiders, Native villages, rumors of strange bearded white men, and stories that hinted at vast inland waterways beyond Appalachia. Lederer's journal about his travels became one of the earliest written descriptions of Appalachia.Be sure to subscribe to the Stories podcast.  You'll find us wherever you get your favorite podcasts.Thanks for listening!

Well, howdy neighbors! Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, comin’ to you straight from our beautiful little corner of North Georgia. Now, if you've listened to my podcasts or read my articles before, you know I'm usually talkin’ to you about things that scurry, buzz, or try to eat your home from the inside out—like those sneaky subterranean termites or attic-dwelling bats. But today, I want to talk about something else that's been dug deep into this red clay for a long, long time: the history of our very own hometown, Jasper, Georgia. You see, I've been in the pest control business around here for years, and one thing you learn when you're crawling around under old structures is that a town's history is a lot like a good foundation. If you don't understand what it's built on, you’re missing the whole story. So let’s take a little stroll down memory lane and look at how Jasper became “The First Mountain City.” The Early Days and Foundational Stones Long before any of us were here, this beautiful land at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains was home to the Cherokee Indians. They stewarded these hills and valleys until the tragic events of the Trail of Tears in the 1830s. Fast forward a bit to December of 1853, and the Georgia legislature decided to slice off pieces of Cherokee and Gilmer counties to create Pickens County. Now, the folks in charge needed a county seat, and they picked a spot right in the exact geographical center of the county. In 1857, that little spot was officially incorporated as the town of Jasper. We were named after a real-deal Revolutionary War hero, Sergeant William Jasper, who famously lost his life saving his regiment’s flag at the Siege of Savannah in 1779. A Little Fun Fact: Our county, Pickens, was also named after a Revolutionary War hero—General Andrew Pickens. So we've got patriotism baked right into our names! A Town Divided: The Civil War Era Now, here's a piece of history that a lot of folks don’t know, and it shows the independent streak of our mountain ancestors. When the Civil War rolled around in 1861, Pickens County was deeply divided. We didn’t have the big plantations or the slave economy of south Georgia; we were mostly independent mountain farmers. In fact, local leaders actually voted against secession. To show you just how stubborn and brave those mountain folks were, when Georgia decided to leave the Union, a group of local citizens raised the U.S. Stars and Stripes flag right in front of the county courthouse in Jasper. And get this—they guarded it day and night, keeping it flying for nearly a month after the state seceded! Throughout the war, Jasper was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops at different times, and it was a rough, rocky road for the citizens living here. The Two Booms: Rail and Marble After the war, Jasper grew pretty slowly. By 1880, the census recorded only 146 people living here! If you walked down the street back then, you’d see a log jail, a couple of churches, a brick courthouse, and a lot of log cabins. But then came 1883, and two massive things changed Jasper forever: The Marietta and North Georgia Railroad chugged into town. The Georgia Marble Company started booming over in nearby Tate. Suddenly, we weren’t just an isolated mountain village anymore. The railroad gave us a way to ship out the local timber, cotton, and most importantly, that world-famous Pickens County marble. The Capital of Pure Stone Our local marble isn’t just any old rock. It’s some of the purest, most beautiful stone in the world. If you've ever been to Washington, D.C., you've probably looked right at a piece of our home—Georgia marble from our county was used to build the Lincoln Memorial, parts of the U.S. Capitol, and more than half of the monuments up there! Locally, you can see it everywhere, from our historic 1949 courthouse to the famous Tate House built out of rare pink marble. [ THE JASPER TIME-LINE ] 1853 ── Pickens County formed out of Cherokee/Gilmer. 1857 ── Jasper officially incorporated as a town. 1861 ── Union flag flown at courthouse in defiance of secession. 1883 ── Railroad arrives; the marble industry explodes. 1920s── Expansion of Georgia Marble Co. keeps Jasper afloat. 1940 ── Amicalola EMC brings rural electricity to the hills. 1990s── GA 515 expansion connects Jasper to Atlanta. Keeping the Heritage Alive Through the Great Depression, the collapse of the cotton industry, and the turning of the centuries, Jasper held onto its small-town heart. We went from a tiny mountain outpost to a bustling city of over 4,000 residents today. We celebrate that rich history every single year during the first full weekend of October at the Georgia Marble Festival. If you've never been, you're missing out on great music, incredible stone carving, and some of the finest folks you'll ever meet. A Message From Your Local “Bug Man” You see, neighbors, knowing where we come from helps us appreciate what we've got today. Jasper has survived wars, economic crashes, and changed from a tiny railroad stop into the beautiful, thriving community we love. It’s a tough, resilient town. But you know what isn’t resilient? A house that's being eaten up by pests! While we're proud of our historic wood and marble buildings, those old-growth timbers are exactly what Eastern Subterranean Termites look at and think, “Mmm, buffet!” And with our high humidity and warm mountain summers, those critters are looking for a place to set up their own historic homestead right inside your crawlspace. Listen… I want to be YOUR BUG MAN! I've been protecting the homes and history of Jasper, Ellijay, and Blue Ridge for a long time. I don’t believe in cutting corners, because cutting corners just means the bugs come back—and that's not how I do business. My “Make You Happy” Personal Guarantee: If you hire me to get rid of your pest problem and, at the end of 30 days, you are not 100% HAPPY, I will come back and retreat your home for FREE. And I'll keep treating it for FREE until you tell me you ARE happy. If that still doesn’t do it, I'll promptly and politely give YOU back every penny of your money, plus an additional $25.00 for your time and trouble… period. So, let’s keep Jasper beautiful, historic, and completely bug-free. If you hear something scratching in your walls or you're worried about termites invading your home’s foundation, give me a call today at 770-823-9202. Tell ’em you read my history article, and I'll even take $25.00 OFF your very first service! Until next time, neighbors, take care of your home, enjoy our beautiful mountain history, and let's keep those tails waggin’! — Fred Talley Owner/Operator, Faith Pest Control Jasper, GAThe post Jasper Georgia, The History of My HomeTown first appeared on Faith Pest Control.

This is another installment of The Bigfoot Inquiry with Brian and Dr. Hogan Sherrow, and the guys open with the recent follow-up email from Bill Munns regarding the Patterson-Gimlin Film and the upcoming Capturing Bigfoot documentary before moving on to other topics.Brian narrated Bill's open letter in full on a recent Sasquatch Odyssey episode, and on this episode he and Hogan break down what Bill actually said and what it might mean. Bill doubles down on his position that the PGF is one hundred percent authentic, but in doing so he may have painted himself into a corner. If the forty-second clip in the new documentary turns out to look identical to Patty, then by Bill's own reasoning that clip has to be a man in a suit, which raises serious questions about the original film.Brian also pushes back on Bill's claim that the new clip was shot on 1966 Kodak film stock but possibly not used until 1970 or later, arguing that filmmakers are creatures of habit who use their film within a reasonable window of purchase.Hogan brings the scientific perspective and pushes back on Bill's use of absolute language, explaining that science does not prove anything to one hundred percent and that any such claim is a methodological red flag.He also takes issue with the assumption-based reasoning around the color of the foot, the angle of the step, and the supposed impossibility of anyone obtaining a Bigfoot suit. Both guys remind listeners that two things can be true at once, that the PGF could be a hoax and Bigfoot could still exist, and that everyone should reserve final judgment until they can see Capturing Bigfoot for themselves.From there the conversation moves to Sasquatch Ontario and Mike Patterson's announcement of a new book called The Invisible Giant, which Brian considers part of one of the longest-running hoaxes in the Bigfoot world. That leads into a broader discussion of the growing divide in the Bigfoot community, which Hogan compares to the ongoing chimpanzee civil war at the Ngogo community in Uganda, the largest chimp group ever documented.Hogan shares firsthand stories of being caught in the middle of chimp battles during his field research and explains how the loss of key social connectors can fracture a group, drawing a clear parallel to what is happening between the flesh-and-blood camp and the high-strangeness camp in Bigfoot research.Brian then previews his upcoming interview with David Bacara of the Expedition Bigfoot Museum in Blue Ridge, Georgia, and the guys discuss David's skepticism about Gigantopithecus and his belief that Sasquatch may be controlled by some other force. Hogan walks through the actual evidence for Gigantopithecus, including the Y-five dental pattern that identifies ape molars and the discovery of the original teeth being sold as dragon teeth in Chinese apothecary shops.The episode also covers Brian's edge theory for why Bigfoot sightings happen in suburban areas, the importance of Occam's razor when evaluating high-strangeness reports, and Hogan's closing public service announcement on the difference between territories and home ranges in primates.Email BrianGet Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Books Leave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.Have you had a Bigfoot encounter, Sasquatch sighting, Dogman experience, or other cryptid or paranormal encounter? We'd love to hear your story. Email brian@paranormalworldproductions.com to be featured on a future episode of Sasquatch Odyssey.Sasquatch Odyssey is a leading Bigfoot and cryptid podcast exploring real encounters, field research, and scientific analysis of the Sasquatch phenomenon.Follow the show and turn on automatic downloads so you never miss an episode.

In this episode, Chris, Andrew, and David are back together with David starting out giving a recap of Blue Ridge Ruby and his renewed motivation to contribute to open source. The group discusses the value of smaller single-track conferences to hallway conversations, and lightning talks. The conversation then shifts into real-world Rails and Stripe lessons, including workshop prep, validation decisions, webhook recovery, subscription edge cases, and the growing complexity of payment integrations. Hit download now to hear more! LinksJudoscale- Remote Ruby listener giftGetting Started with Rails with Chris Oliver (Frontend Masters Live Interactive Workshop)Ruby Conferences 2026HoneybadgerHoneybadger is an application health monitoring tool built by developers for developers.JudoscaleMake your deployments bulletproof with autoscaling that just works.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Chris Oliver X/TwitterAndrew Mason X/TwitterJason Charnes X/Twitter

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Deb Hatley shares the story behind rebuilding the former Wolf Ridge into Hatley Pointe — from major infrastructure challenges and leadership lessons to a bigger vision centered on hospitality, community, and creating a boutique mountain experience that feels intentional from the moment guests arrive.We talk about first impressions of the mountain, the unexpected renovation challenges that led to a full rebuild, and how every detail of the guest journey is being reimagined from arrival to apres. Deb also shares how inspiration from places like Snowmass and European resorts helped shape a focus on service, atmosphere, and shorter lift lines, along with the harder moments — from timeline pressure and refunds to the bull wheel failure that tested her fortitude.At its core, this is a conversation about building trust, balancing growth with guest experience, and what it really takes to operate and evolve a ski resort in the Southeast. We also look ahead to what's next for Hatley Pointe as a true four-season destination, including lift-served mountain biking and expanded year-round access. If you care about mountain tourism, hospitality leadership, skiing and riding, or the future of outdoor recreation in the Blue Ridge, you'll get a lot from this one.Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

In this episode, Brian sits down with David Bakara, owner of the Expedition Bigfoot Museum in Blue Ridge, Georgia, for a wide-ranging conversation about Bigfoot research, witness testimony, and the strange territory where cryptid investigation meets the unexplained. David shares how his interest in the subject began with Florida Skunk Ape reports and eventually led him into the field, including his work with the BFRO after a birthday expedition that changed the direction of his life.David reflects on early experiences that shaped his curiosity, including a childhood incident in Michigan involving something violently pounding on his family's home. He also recounts a compelling Florida investigation where he, his wife, and a witness observed two mysterious figures on thermal imaging, adding another layer to the ongoing question of what people are encountering in the woods. The conversation explores why so many witnesses remain silent for years, often waiting until they find someone they trust enough to hear their story without ridicule. From there, David and Brian move into some of the more unusual reports connected to Bigfoot and other cryptid encounters, including claims of sudden freezing sensations, glowing eyes, spider-like movement, disappearances, mind speak, and even shape-shifting accounts. David also discusses several Dogman reports, including a daylight vehicle collision and another account involving a creature running alongside a car, raising larger questions about whether these encounters point to something beyond the physical world we understand.Brian and David also dive into the ongoing Patterson-Gimlin film debate, with David explaining why he still leans toward the film's authenticity while questioning whether recent controversy may be driven as much by documentary politics as by evidence.The episode closes with David sharing more about the Expedition Bigfoot Museum, its mission to preserve witness accounts and research history, and why it remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Sasquatch, Dogman, and the mysteries of the unseen world.Expedition Bigfoot MuseumEmail BrianGet Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Books Leave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.Have you had a Bigfoot encounter, Sasquatch sighting, Dogman experience, or other cryptid or paranormal encounter? We'd love to hear your story. Email brian@paranormalworldproductions.com to be featured on a future episode of Sasquatch Odyssey.Sasquatch Odyssey is a leading Bigfoot and cryptid podcast exploring real encounters, field research, and scientific analysis of the Sasquatch phenomenon.Follow the show and turn on automatic downloads so you never miss an episode.

On today's show BUZZ creator Michael Hemphill buzzes about about college … and the unaffordability of it for too many high school graduates who are getting ready to walk the stage this month and receive their diplomas. Thankfully some nonprofits have stepped up to work on this issue, and we speak with two that are headquartered in Roanoke, Virginia: Project Discovery and Friends of the Blue Ridge!

Howdy again, neighbors! Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control. You know, living here in Jasper, we're lucky to be just a stone's throw away from some of the best mountain traditions in the world. If you're looking for a reason to pack up the family and head a little further north this August, I've got just the ticket for you. It's time for the 76th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair up in Hiawassee! A Mountain Tradition Like No Other From August 14th through August 22nd, 2026, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds will be buzzing with excitement. It's about an hour and fifteen minutes from us here in Jasper, and let me tell you, it is well worth the drive. Here's what's cooking at the fair this year: The Music: Anderson Music Hall is going to be rocking! They've got Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone on the 14th, the legendary Vince Gill on the 15th and 16th, and Casting Crowns closing things out on the 26th. The Pioneer Village: This is one of my favorite parts. It's like stepping back in time to see how our mountain ancestors lived—complete with moonshine making, cider squeezing, and blacksmithing demonstrations. The Carnival Midway: If you've got kids (or you're just a kid at heart), the rides open a day early on August 13th. Puppy Pals Live: As a man who loves a happy dog (you know my slogan—Keepin' the Tail Waggin'), I'm excited about this America's Got Talent act featuring rescued pups performing stunts. Don’t Bring the “Fair” Back Home With You Now, speaking of “mountain traditions,” there's one we'd all like to do without: summer pests. While you're out enjoying the funnel cakes and the fresh mountain air, those North Georgia ants, roaches, and termites are looking for their own fairground—and they usually pick your crawlspace or your kitchen pantry. This time of year, with the humidity high, things like Subterranean Termites are more active than ever, and Stink Bugs are just waiting for a chance to move in. Listen… I want to be YOUR BUG MAN! I've been in this business for years, and I'm not just a Georgia State Certified Pest Control Operator; I'm a neighbor who cares about your home. Whether you’re in Jasper, Blue Ridge, or Ellijay, I treat your house like it's my own. My “Make You Happy” Personal Guarantee I don't believe in cutting corners, because cutting corners leads to bugs coming back. That's why I offer the best guarantee in the business: If you hire me to get rid of your pest problem and, at the end of 30 days, you are not 100% HAPPY, I will come back and retreat your home for FREE. If you're still not happy, I'll give you back every penny of your money, plus an additional $25.00 for your time and trouble. Period. So, go on up to Hiawassee, ride the Tilt-A-Whirl, and eat your fill of fair food. But if you come home and find that the ants have started their own “Pioneer Village” in your cabinets, you give me a call. Call me at 770-823-9202. Let’s get those bugs out so we can keep those tails waggin’! See you at the fair, Fred Talley, Owner/Operator Faith Pest Control, Jasper, GA 770-823-9202 PS. Don't forget—mention you saw this notice and I'll take $25.00 OFF your first service!The post Georgia Mountain Fair is Coming to Hiawassee first appeared on Faith Pest Control.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I am joined by Shannon Odom, executive director of the McDowell County Tourism Development Authority, to unpack why this corner of Western North Carolina is gaining serious momentum, and how it's doing it in a way that feels rooted, welcoming, and real.We talk trails first, because the growth is undeniable: new mileage on the ground, rebuilt sections after Hurricane Helene, and the validation that comes with Old Fort joining the North Carolina Trail Towns Network. Shannon explains the “trails for all” approach, from easy loops for beginners to the big headline project many people haven't heard about yet: backcountry adaptive bicycling trails tied to the Wilderness Gateway Trail. From there, we zoom out into the long game, a connected network that could link Marion, Universal Park, the Thermal Belt Trail, and eventually the Fonta Flora Trail.Then we go beyond the bike to the full McDowell County travel guide experience: Old Fort's railroad and frontier history, Marion's downtown businesses and brewery scene, Little Switzerland's Parkway charm, and practical updates on Blue Ridge Parkway access. We also hit the must-see waterfalls like Linville Falls, Catawba Falls, and Tom's Creek Falls, plus culture and festivals that make a weekend feel packed, from the Orchard at Altapass to Bigfoot sightings and gold panning.Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Host Janet Michael sits down with Les Sinclair, Communications and PR Manager of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank to explore how older Americans are both the backbone of the food bank's volunteer workforce and one of its most vulnerable populations. With May designated as Older Americans Month — and the 2026 theme being "Champion Your Health" — the conversation digs into rising food insecurity numbers, the critical role of nutrition, and how the food bank is adapting to increasing demand and shrinking federal support. Key Topics Covered Older Americans as Volunteers Seniors make up a large portion of food pantry volunteers, particularly through church-based programs Over 50% of food pantries operate out of churches Seniors are "aging out" of heavy lifting tasks — food bank supports partners with electric pallet jacks and other equipment Seniors as Food Recipients 1 in 5 seniors visits a food pantry at some point Fixed incomes leave little flexibility when prices rise (gas, groceries, prescriptions) Many seniors batch all monthly errands into a single trip, including food pantry visits Transportation and mobility challenges drive demand for delivery-based food services The Numbers 32+ million pounds of food distributed last fiscal year Currently tracking to exceed that — 16.6 million pounds in the first half of this fiscal year Monthly guest visits have risen from ~171,200 (last fiscal year average) to ~177,000 currently Peak of 194,000 visits recorded in October 2025 amid government shutdown uncertainty USDA food supply is down 31%, requiring the food bank to purchase more food to fill the gap Food as Medicine 5.5 million pounds of the food distributed is produce Proper nutrition can help manage chronic conditions: high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes Food bank partners with healthcare clinics to screen patients for food insecurity and send them home with food that meets dietary needs Variety and choice matter — food that isn't eaten provides no nutrition Senior-Specific Programs CSFP (Commodity Supplemental Food Program) / Senior Food Boxes — USDA-funded monthly food boxes for income-qualifying seniors; packed in Charlottesville, distributed region-wide from Winchester to Lynchburg; recently supplemented with additional produce boxes Reach Boxes — Food bank's own program for seniors who don't qualify for USDA boxes; same concept, purchased food USDA Funding & the Farm Bill USDA product reductions create ripple effects throughout the food distribution network The Farm Bill is critical to maintaining nutrition programs, supporting farmers, and funding food banks Smaller pantries may not have the budget to fill USDA gaps — the food bank has issued financial credits to ~120 pantries Food bank is spending ~$700,000 on 400,000 pounds of high-quality, culturally specific proteins (chicken, fish, beef, peanut butter) to distribute for free to partners How the Food Bank is Funded Over 75% of funding comes from individual donors — people giving $5–$10/month $10 = 30 meals; community giving compounds significantly at scale Large corporate donations are rare in the region Upcoming Event: Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Date: Saturday, May 9th Organized by the Letter Carriers Association (not the post office) Leave non-perishable food items by your mailbox before 8:00 AM Letter carriers will collect and deliver to local pantries or the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Largest food drive of the year Tips: No glass containers, no perishables — canned goods and boxed items preferred Can also donate online in honor of your letter carrier How to Get Involved Donate food: Leave items at your mailbox on May 9th for Stamp Out Hunger Donate money: Even $5–$10/month makes a difference Find a pantry or get help: brafb.org

Angela Joy and Mason Dudley share the founding story of the Blue Ridge Town & Country Real Estate Team, discussing their backgrounds, the challenges they've faced, and their passion for helping clients build wealth through real estate. Tony Goodman of Atlantic Union Bank provides insight into home financing options and available grants. The conversation highlights the supportive local business environment, the importance of persistence, and the value of investing in the community.

In “Sniffing Out American Truffles,” Gravy reporter Irina Zhorov explores truffle production in the U.S.—and how the South is emerging as a hub.  Truffle production in the U.S. is a young industry. Commercial cultivation started in the 1980s. Truffles are a complicated business. When you're farming truffles, what you're really growing is trees. The truffles are fungi that grow on tree roots. The tree and the fungi work synergistically, the tree providing sugars to the fungi for nourishment and the fungi helping the roots reach further into the soil to absorb more nutrients. For this relationship to work well, and for truffles to flourish, the type of tree and fungi must be a good match, the soil ought to be of sufficiently high pH, and weather and moisture need to be suitable. Europeans, particularly in Italy and France, figured out the formula to make this complex system function. Truffle orchards once abounded on the continent. World Wars I and II, as well as changing land use, destroyed many of those operations, but the industry there is still established. When American farmers began to seed their truffle orchards, most of them imported European truffle varieties on European trees. European truffles are big and delicious, and want-to be growers knew that system worked. But European trees have struggled in North America; they lack defenses for local pests, and many of the early orchards have died out.   An operation in North Carolina, Burwell Farms, tried something different. They inoculated native loblolly pines with the European bianchetto truffle variety. They're now the most productive truffle orchard in the United States, but they still can't keep up with growing demand.   As the industry matures, there are also attempts to cultivate native truffle varieties, like the Appalachian truffle, the Blue Ridge truffle, and other newly discovered species. And there's growing interest in foraging for native truffles, too. The industry is becoming increasingly attuned to local varieties and possibilities to make this luxurious product our own.   In this episode of Gravy, Zhorov visits Burwell Farms and follows their dogs at work harvesting truffles. We hear from Burwell Farms' Jeffrey Coker; Margaret Townsend, president of the North American Truffle Growers Association and owner of NewTown Truffiere; chef Joe Kindred on what excites him about local truffles; and North Carolina extension agents Katie Learn and Jeanine Davis on local varieties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two guests join Barry on this episode: Brad Veach, Executive Director of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival highlights the upcoming Festival, April 24th-May 3rd.  www.thebloom.com Jeffrey Alban, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Blue Ridge Singers chats about their Spring concert series:  "The French-American Connection".   www.blueridgesingers.org

In which Jimmy shares a very Jimmy song about a road trip and hurt feelings, and Galen leads us on a quiz to see if we can remember what happened in the early days of the podcast.

Spring is Popping in North Georgia—And So Are the Bugs! **By Fred Talley, Faith Pest Control** Well, neighbors, it's that time of year again. The daffodils are peeking out, the Coosawattee is flowing high, and if you look closely at the sunny side of your house here in Jasper, you'll see exactly what I'm seeing: **The bugs are waking up.** Up here in the North Georgia Mountains, our spring is beautiful, but it's also the “Grand Opening” for every creepy-crawly that's been hitching a ride in your insulation or hiding under your leaf litter all winter. At **Faith Pest Control**, we're already getting the calls. Here's what's shaking off the winter slumber and heading your way this month: ### 1. The “Big Three” of Spring Home Invasions While everything is waking up, three pests usually lead the charge into our North Georgia homes: * **Ants (Especially Odorous House Ants):** They're thirsty and hungry. As soon as the ground warms up, scouts start looking for a sugary snack in your kitchen. If you see one, there are a thousand more following that scent trail. * **Termites:** This is the big one. Spring is “Swarm Season.” When we get those warm days right after a spring rain, subterranean termites send out winged “swarmers” to start new colonies. If you see what looks like flying ants inside your house, don’t wait—give us a call. * **Carpenter Bees:** If you've got a wooden deck or cedar siding, you know the drill. These “flying drill bits” are waking up to hover around your eaves and start boring those perfectly round holes. ### 2. The Overwintering “Wake-Up Call” Remember those **Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs** and **Kudzu Bugs** that disappeared back in November? They didn’t leave; they just went into your attic and wall voids. Now that the sun is hitting your siding, they think it's summertime. They'll start crawling out of your light fixtures and vents, looking for a way back outside. > **Fred's Pro Tip:** Don’t squish ’em! You'll end up with a literal “stink” and a stain on your carpet. Vacuum them up and toss the bag. ### 3. Mosquitoes and Ticks are Checking In With the spring rains filling up every discarded pot and low spot in the yard, the mosquito larvae are ready to go. And if you're out hiking the trails around Bent Tree or Big Canoe, the ticks are officially active. It only takes one warm week for them to climb to the top of the tall grass waiting for a host. ### How to Get Ahead of the Spring Rush You don't have to wait until you're outnumbered to take action. Here's what you can do right now: * **Clean Those Gutters:** Clogged gutters are a breeding ground for mosquitoes and a “highway” for ants to get into your roofline. * **Mulch Mindfully:** Keep your pine straw or mulch a few inches away from your foundation. Piling it right against the house is like laying out a welcome mat for termites. * **Check the Seals:** Look at your door sweeps and window screens. If a breeze can get in, a bug can too. Let Faith Handle the Rest At **Faith Pest Control**, we know the North Georgia terrain because we live here. We don't just spray and pray; we look at the biology of these mountain pests to stop them before they get a foothold in your living room. Whether you're in Jasper, Ellijay, or Blue Ridge, we're ready to help you enjoy the spring without the “uninvited guests.” Give us a shout, and let's get your home protected. **Happy Spring, everybody!** The post Spring is Popping in North Georgia—And So Are the Bugs! first appeared on Faith Pest Control.

This is part three of a ten-part series from Garrett, a residential contractor on a remote forty-seven-acre property in the southern Appalachians of western North Carolina.Garrett introduces his brother Wade, a Marine veteran six years his senior, now living in Winston-Salem with his wife Colleen and two kids.He describes the bond they built during childhood cabin trips in the Blue Ridge, anchored by a pivotal hike near Blowing Rock that cemented Wade's voice as one of the most emotionally significant sounds in Garrett's life.On October 11, 2015, while resting at the bottom of a ravine during a routine boundary walk, Garrett hears Wade's voice call his name from upslope. The voice is a perfect acoustic match.His dog Bowie reacts with immediate fear. A second call follows, and when Garrett turns south to leave, his name is called from in front of him while "Over here" comes simultaneously from behind, boxing him in from two directions within seconds of each other. Garrett scrambles up the western ravine wall as the voice follows, closer and more insistent each time. After reaching the ridgetop, he experiences a sudden total loss of spatial orientation on land he has walked dozens of times. He reorients only by listening for the sound of Bishop Creek and following it back to the cabin. At the cabin, he finds a single sixteen-and-three-quarter-inch footprint pressed into damp clay beside his back door, facing the threshold, left while he was in the ravine. He photographs it from seventeen angles and documents the measurements.Garrett reflects on the emotional precision of the mimicry, the sustained close-range observation required to replicate a specific human voice, and what appears to be a coordinated event — a luring attempt in the ravine happening while something else visited the cabin.The series continues with Story Four, in which tracks in fresh snow reveal how often the creature visits when Garrett believes it is gone.Have you experienced a Bigfoot sighting, Sasquatch encounter, Dogman experience, UFO sighting, or any unexplained cryptid or paranormal event deep in the woods? We want to hear your story.Email your encounter to brian@paranormalworldproductions.com for a chance to be featured on a future episode of Backwoods Bigfoot Stories.Backwoods Bigfoot Stories is a paranormal storytelling podcast featuring real Bigfoot encounters, Sasquatch sightings, Dogman reports, cryptid experiences, and true scary stories from the backwoods.Follow the show and turn on automatic downloads so you never miss a chilling encounter from the forest. Listen with the lights off… if you dare.

In this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, Bill Falconer talks with Bill Oyster of Oyster Bamboo about his experience taking the Oyster Bamboo Rodbuilding Class in Blue Ridge, Georgia, and what makes the week so memorable for rod builders, anglers, and first-time bamboo students alike.Bill shares how years of hearing about the class finally led him and others to commit, and how the experience exceeded expectations from the moment it began. What stood out most was not just the chance to build a bamboo fly rod by hand, but the way Oyster and his team have refined the class into a highly organized, approachable, and deeply enjoyable learning experience.They break down what students actually do during the six-day class, how the instruction is structured to make a complex craft accessible, and why the process works so well for people with very different levels of skill and experience. Along the way, they discuss the class atmosphere, the camaraderie that develops among students, the personalization options that make each rod unique, and why so many participants sign up for another class before they leave.On the bamboo side, Oyster explains why these rods should be understood as serious fishing tools rather than fragile relics, how bamboo fits into American fly-fishing heritage, and why the appeal goes far beyond nostalgia. The conversation also explores engraving, rod design choices, balance and fishability, and the deeper satisfaction that comes from fishing a rod you built yourself from raw cane.Mastering Rod Building is brought to you by Anglers Resource — your source for genuine Fuji Tackle components.Where to buy genuine FUJI®️ rod components (Area Distributors)Japan: FIRST Corporation — https://first-fuji.co.jp/ • mail@first-fuji.co.jpAmerican Continent (North & South America): Anglers Resource — https://anglersresource.net/ • info@anglersresource.netOceania: Frogleys Offshore — https://fujitackle.com.au • enquiries@frogleysoffshore.com.auSpain/Czech/Finland/Sweden/Estonia/Latvia/Poland/Denmark/Belgium/Germany/Netherlands/Ireland/Luxembourg/France/Portugal/UK/Norway/Belarus/Ukraine/Russia:: CALICO S.A. (Kalikunnan) — https://kalikunnan.com/ • fuji@calico.esEurope: MAJORA Intelligent Fishing (FUJI Tackle Italy) — https://www.fujitackle.it • info@fujitackle.itAsia: KOWA Company, Ltd. — fujitackle@kowa.co.jp

On May 16, 2003, a silent alarm was triggered inside Blue Ridge Savings Bank in Greer, South Carolina. When officers arrived just minutes later, they found the bank empty and the cash drawer cleared out.In a small utility room at the back of the building, they made a devastating discovery. Head teller Sylvia Holtzclaw, along with customers Dr. Eb Barnes and his wife Maggie Barnes, had all been shot and killed.Surveillance footage from inside the bank was missing. Grainy video from nearby gas stations showed a red car speeding away from the area, but investigators were never able to identify the driver. More than 20 years later, the triple homicide at Blue Ridge Savings Bank remains unsolved, and detectives are still searching for the person or people responsible.If you have any information, please contact the FBI Office in Greenville, South Carolina at (803) 551-4200 or the Greer Police Department at (864) 848-2151.Editor: Shannon KeirceResearch/Writing: Haley GraySUBMIT A CASE HERE: Cases@DetectivePerspectivePod.com SOCIALInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/detperspective/Twitter: https://twitter.com/detperspectiveFIND DERRICK HERETwitter: https://twitter.com/DerrickLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/DerrickLevasseurFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DerrickVLevasseurCRIME WEEKLY AND COFFEECriminal Coffee Company: https://www.CriminalCoffeeCo.comCrime Weekly:  https://crimeweeklypodcast.com/shopADS:1. https://www.GetAcreGold.com - Diversify your portfolio and sign up today!2. https://www.HungryRoot.com/Detective - Use code DETECTIVE for 40% off and a FREE item for life!

Mark Lumpkin breaks down the amenity data for Blue Ridge, one of the most popular cabin markets in the Southeast.Using insights from STR Search, this episode dives into which amenities top-performing properties are using to dominate the market—and how much additional revenue those features are generating annually.Here's what the data shows in Blue Ridge:• Hot Tubs (91%) → +$20,000+/year • Game Rooms (50%) → +$16,451/year • Home Gyms (8%) → +$9,123/year • Saunas (5%) → +$24,861/year • Swimming Pools (3%) → +$57,348/year • Mini Golf (4%) → +$14,700/yearThe biggest takeaway? In Blue Ridge, amenities drive performance.Hot tubs are essentially mandatory for top-performing cabins, while features like saunas, pools, and mini golf courses are still rare—but generating massive revenue advantages for properties that have them.If you're investing in Blue Ridge or planning upgrades to an existing cabin, this episode reveals the amenities that can help your property stand out and maximize revenue.Subscribe to the STR Investing Podcast for market data every Monday and expert guests every Friday.

The dust hasn't settled, and maybe that's the point. We just wrapped Daytona Bike Week 2026 with a week that threw everything at us—flooded tents, leaky air mattresses, midnight engines, and a sales curve that swung from record pace to near freefall before a late rally. The numbers say we edged past last year; the story says we leveled up in ways a ledger can't track.We open with the campsite chaos and the mental game it takes to keep showing up when sleep is a rumor. Then we peel back the business side: the midweek surge, the rent hike gamble, and the decisions that turned a shaky start into a modest win. But the heartbeat of this trip was connection. At the Cabbage Patch, the bartenders' high-fives and ownership check-ins told us we're not just passing vendors—we're part of the scene. That visibility may even tee up MC opportunities for 2027, proof that presence breeds possibility.The week also gave us milestones that stick. A father–son run to Supercross at the Speedway, an NBA game to watch a hometown phenom cross a milestone, and a moment I'll remember forever: Brian buying the RV he's dreamed of for years. Being there for that decision reframed the grind—suddenly the long days had a narrative spine, a why you can feel. And there was a creative spark too. Country artist Daniel Johnson jumped in the booth with us, and somewhere between selling shirts and trading stories, we mapped a real plan—grow his audience up north, seed our brand down south, build shows and community the old-school collaborative way.The drive home turned into a test and a teacher. Thirty hours of gridlock, storms, fog, and a hubcap that tried to take us out at 80. I logged my first serious trailer miles and found focus in two white lines and steady brakes. Then the Blue Ridge unspooled at sunrise, and the noise fell away. That's where the takeaways clicked: resilience compounds, relationships are the ROI, and the hard road still leads where we want to go.If you're into real-world brand building, road family stories, and the grit it takes to turn chaos into momentum, you'll feel this one. Tap play, ride with us through the wins and near-misses, and tell us what the road taught you lately. And if this resonated, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so we can keep growing this tribe together.If you found value in today's show please return the favor and leave a positive review and share it with someone important to you! https://www.sharethestrugglepodcast.com/reviews/new/Find all you need to know about the show https://www.sharethestrugglepodcast.com/Official Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077724159859Join the 2% of Americans that Buy American and support American Together we can bring back American Manufacturing https://www.loudproudamerican.shop/Loud Proud American Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoudproudamericanLoud Proud American Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loud_proud_american/Loud Proud American TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loud_proud_americanLoud Proud American YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmYQtOt6KVURuySWYQ2GWtwThank you for Supporting My American Dream!

What did you think of this episode?Who are you in Christ? Who is Christ in you? And why did He call you in the first place? Today's guest shares why this continuing class at the BRMWC always has a waiting list - stick around. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I'm your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I'm so glad you're listening in. During this episode, you'll learn about … Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, and Why He Called You in the First Place …My industry expert, Eva Marie Everson, is the multi-award-winning author of nearly 50 fiction, nonfiction, and children's titles. She is the CEO of Word Weavers International, the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, the Director of the BRMCWC Selah and Foundation awards, and a popular speaker. She and her husband—when they are not enjoying their children and grandchildren—are owned by a cat named Vanessa.This class is a 4-day CCPracticum. Tell us what that means.How did this continuing class come about? What should participants expect to learn during the class?One must pre-register for this class. Why and how?As we wrap up, words of encouragement to first-time attendees? Eva Marie EversonClass Title: Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, And Why He Called You in the First PlaceClass Type: Continuing Class Practicum - Pre-Registration is required. See class requirements belowClass Description: ACT I/II/III 4-day CCP Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, And Why He Called You in the First PlaceClass Requirements:This class is limited to the first 10 participants. You must sign up in advance, and can do so by emailing Eva at PenNhnd@aol.com. Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

In this episode of Talk Local to Me, Heather and Mike highlight upcoming events in Central Virginia and speak with Charity Johnson of Craftsman Custom Homebuilders about the home-building process, transparent pricing, and customization options. They also welcome Angela from Blue Ridge Town and Country LLC, who shares insights on smart home buying, investment strategies, and available grants. The episode offers practical advice on building, buying, and financing homes while emphasizing the value of local expertise and encouraging listeners to make informed real estate decisions.

Rooster Walk is officially the #1 music festival in the region. After years of being a "top contender," the Martinsville, VA mainstay recently took home the top prize in the 2026 Best of the Blue Ridge Awards. In this episode, Jrod sits down with Executive Producer Johnny Buck for an inside look at the 16th annual festival (May 21–24, 2026). They discuss the festival's moving origin story, its commitment to the Martinsville community, and the challenge of keeping independent festivals accessible in an era of skyrocketing production costs and "stadium displacement." Whether you're a long-time "Rooster" or a first-timer, this preview explores why this festival—built on the legacy of childhood friends Edwin and Walker—continues to be a home for artists like Maggie Rose, Paul McDonald, and Moon Taxi. In this episode, we cover: The Victory Lap: What the "Best Music Festival" win means for the festival's 16th year. Festival Value vs. Stadium Shows: Why communal experiences are winning out over $500 stadium seats. The 2026 Lineup: Insights into headliners St. Paul & The Broken Bones, moe., and Daniel Donato, plus favorites like Shadowgrass and our friends Maggie Rose and Paul McDonald. Pinch-Me Moments: Memories of Billy Strings, Marcus King, and Emmylou Harris. Legacy & Scholarship: How the festival continues to give back through the Penn-Shank Memorial Scholarship Fund. Links & Resources: Get Tickets https://www.roosterwalk.com Follow Rooster Walk: @roosterwalk Follow Jrodconcerts: @jrodconcertsmedia Official Website: https://www.jrodconcertsmedia.com __ Cheerios: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lights, camera, action! Dive into the world of independent filmmaking with Allison Holmes, events director for the Blue Ridge Film Festival. We explore the festival’s mission to spotlight local and international talent, including student filmmakers from Fannin County High School. Discover how this community-driven event is making big-screen dreams accessible to all. Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes stories and tips for submitting your own script! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Blueridge Film FestivalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chassidus Defined - Blue Ridge Mishmar in Growth by Rabbi Daniel Kalish

Rabbi Kalish

Step into the world of bluegrass gospel and Southern Appalachian culture with Heath Burnett, director of Smoke on the Mountain. In this episode, Heath shares his family’s rich musical heritage, the heartfelt stories behind their performances, and how his roots inspired him to bring this beloved musical to life. From snake-handling churches to the evolution of Baptist music, this conversation is packed with humor, history, and heart. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at a show that’s as entertaining as it is meaningful. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Smoke on the Mountain Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sandra’s Excitement for the Show01:05 Heath Burnett’s Family Connection to Bluegrass Gospel02:30 The Story Behind Smoke on the Mountain04:58 The Welch Family’s Musical Legacy07:25 Music from the Welch Family Albums11:15 Sacred Harp Singing and Appalachian Traditions13:43 How Heath’s Roots Shaped His Directing Journey16:11 Instruments and Interactive Fun in the Show18:45 Show Details and Invitation to the AudienceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How The Mishkan is Built - Parshas Terumah - Blue Ridge Mishmar in Terumah by Rabbi Daniel Kalish

Rabbi Kalish

Welcome, Late Boomers! We're Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and this week, we set sail on a truly transformational journey with Alison Gieschen—author, former horse farm owner, educator, and intrepid world sailor.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to leave everything behind and follow a lifelong dream? In this inspiring episode, Alison shares how she dared to reinvent her life, selling her horse farm and embarking on an adventure with her husband to sail around the world. From the lush hills of upstate New York to the remote islands of French Polynesia, Alison opens up about her life's boldest moves, the storms she's weathered—physically and emotionally—and how it all fuels her work as a writer.We dive deep into Alison's bestselling books, The Seven and A Mermaid's Tale, the profound lessons she's learned traveling to over 49 countries, and the universal themes of courage, culture, and resilience that weave through her stories. You'll also hear incredible anecdotes, like surviving life-threatening storms at sea, encounters with solo sailors, and how her lifelong love of horses continues to inspire her writing—even while anchored in paradise.Key TakeawaysReinvention Is Possible at Any Age: Alison's journey from horse farmer to global sailor proves it's never too late to answer the call of adventure.Facing and Managing Fear: Learn how Alison turned fear into fuel, surviving tumultuous ocean storms and emerging with a deeper understanding of her own resilience.The Transformative Power of Travel: Discover how experiencing different cultures shaped Alison's worldview and the authentic characters in her novels.Writing from Life: Hear how personal stories, hardships (like her son's bullying), and the solace of animals are woven into her fiction and children's books.Simplicity Breeds Joy: Alison discusses the happiness she's witnessed in communities with few material possessions, offering a powerful message for all of us in the West.Finding Community on the Water: Even in the vastness of the ocean, Alison found deep connection and camaraderie with fellow sailors from around the world.Actionable Inspiration for Listeners: Alison encourages everyone to carve out distraction-free time to pursue creativity—and to be brave enough to make the leap toward that “someday” dream.Ready to be inspired for your own third act—or maybe just to ignite your curiosity about life's possibilities? We invite you to:Subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you listen to podcasts (Apple, Spotify, etc.) so you never miss these empowering conversations.Check out Alison Gieschen's books, especially The Seven, A Mermaid's Tale, Sienna, Riding the Waves of Reality, Blue Ridge, and The Legend of Altor—perfect whether you're a horse lover, adventurer, or in need of a dose of hope.Visit our website at lateboomers.us for more inspiring content and to get in touch.

We're so over the snow and ice, Slushies. Join us as we cozy up to three poems from Hilary King. We admire the first poem's warm nostalgia towards old technology and its recollection of a burgeoning appreciation for art. Sam notes how well the poem's title prepares the reader for the poem that follows. The pairing of the projection of art and the projection of memory intrigues Jason. The setting in an art history class sends Sam to the Julia Roberts' movie Mona Lisa Smile, also set in 1953. Whether mothers or daughters, we consider how much we can know about another person's interior life.     Kathy puts on her bad cop hat, but in the nicest way possible. We're thinking about the importance of sharply observed details and how they can focus a poem from the general to the specific. In the final poem we'll clarify whether we're talking about drunk aunts or drunk ants and why either would be preferable to a drunk uncle. And Dagne questions what duties an epigraph can or should perform.   Slushies, if you're attending AWP in March, please stop by and see us at the book fair. We'll be at table 1272. We'd love to see you in person. Thanks, as always, for listening! At the table: Dagne Forrest, Tobi Kassim, Samantha Neugebauer, Jason Schneiderman, Kathleen Volk Miller, Lisa Zerkle, and Lillie Volpe (sound engineer) Author Bio: Originally from the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia, Hilary King is a poet now living in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. Her poems have appeared in Ploughshares, Salamander, The Louisville Review, Fourth River, Common Ground Review, and other publications. She was the 2023 winner of the Rose Warner Prize from Freshwater Review and the second place winner of the 2025 Common Ground Review Annual Poetry Prize. She serves as an editor for DMQ Review, and her book of poems Stitched on Me was published by Riot in Your Throat Press in 2024.  Author Website: www.hilarykingwriting.com   Instagram: @hilaryseessomething Facebook: Hilary Rogers King Bluesky: @hilary299.bsky.social   My Mother's Scholarship Job, 1953   In the ivied dark, she rushes to keep up. The professor barks out facts, theories, slows only for art he likes, or to hiss when she fumbles a slide, sending a Renoir sideways, her face hot in the yellow projector light, rows of girls in store-bought clothes turning to stare at her. After she was accepted, her mother began sewing, made her six versions of the same dress,  full-skirted, round necked, good as any  that ever dressed  a mannequin.  She does fumble the slides. She hasn't mastered  this machine, dazed by how it transforms a square into the magnificent. Monet's shimmering train station, Van Gogh's glowing garden at Arles. She never tells her mother she wears dungarees for the class she takes over and over again, the machine oily, trapping her in the dark, in the back, never up front, her pencil poised  like a fork for a feast. Nest She turned thirteen and shut her door on us. We let her, let her make a freedom of those four walls. What she did, watched,  heard, learned, hid– we had only outlines,  fear and hope filled in the rest. Mornings she stepped over the threshold, shouldered her childhood, cycled towards the gristmill. Afternoons she returned, spent, recovered only with the door closed. Gone just yesterday, grown enough to go, I leave her door open, let it swing like memory. How to Be Peonies              from Trader Joe's   Enter the house in a shroud. Allow the presence of water. Exist as a fist. When no one is looking, peep out one pink petal. That night, alone again, unfurl another. Watch them walk past the golden pollen you fed the table. Get drunk on your own beauty, open your face wide as a drunk aunt's smile. One day later, die spectacularly, fabulously your magenta remains scattered like broken glass.

Downtown Blue Ridge is about to turn electric. Sandra Parrish talks with Troy Shirbroun of the Blue Ridge Business Association about the 15th annual Fire & Ice Chili and Craft Beer Festival — the biggest one yet. From a record 24 chili competitors to 36 ice sculptures, live carving demos, craft beer, live music, and Valentine’s Day fun, Troy shares why this hometown celebration draws thousands every year. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off & Craft Beer Festival Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:32 What Makes Fire & Ice Special01:15 Chili Competition and Tasting Details01:58 Ice Sculptures and Live Carvings02:23 Craft Beer, Music, and Vendors03:40 Valentine’s Day Activities04:20 Event Schedule and Final DetailsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, Bill Falconer talks with master bamboo rod builder and engraver Bill Oyster of Oyster Bamboo Fly Rods about bamboo craftsmanship, building rods at the highest level, and the weeklong class in Blue Ridge, Georgia that fulfills Bill's 30-year dream of making a split-cane fly rod.Bill and Bill walk through how Oyster got his start—from fly fishing as an escape after bicycle racing and a life-changing accident, to teaching himself bamboo rodmaking from books, building his first 7-foot 3/4-weight, and eventually turning a surprise wave of early orders into a full-time shop.They also break down what makes Oyster's classes unique—finishing a complete rod in six days with all tools and materials provided, optional upgrades like engraving and extra tips, and the community aspect that keeps students coming back year after year.They close with a quick history lesson on split-cane bamboo as an American-born craft, plus why modern bamboo rods belong in today's fishing—including serious saltwater applications like redfish, specks, and beyond—and tease a follow-up episode after Bill and Aaron complete the class.Mastering Rod Building is brought to you by Anglers Resource — your source for genuine Fuji Tackle components.Where to buy genuine FUJI®️ rod components (Area Distributors)Japan: FIRST Corporation — https://first-fuji.co.jp/ • mail@first-fuji.co.jpAmerican Continent (North & South America): Anglers Resource — https://anglersresource.net/ • info@anglersresource.netOceania: Frogleys Offshore — https://fujitackle.com.au • enquiries@frogleysoffshore.com.auSpain/Czech/Finland/Sweden/Estonia/Latvia/Poland/Denmark/Belgium/Germany/Netherlands/Ireland/Luxembourg/France/Portugal/UK/Norway/Belarus/Ukraine/Russia:: CALICO S.A. (Kalikunnan) — https://kalikunnan.com/ • fuji@calico.esEurope: MAJORA Intelligent Fishing (FUJI Tackle Italy) — https://www.fujitackle.it • info@fujitackle.itAsia: KOWA Company, Ltd. — fujitackle@kowa.co.jp

Today we tell not one but two stories, both involving the same community in Fannin County, Georgia. In 1864 two men, brothers-in-law Elisha Stanley and Evan Hughes, became the victims of a gang of violent bushwhackers who terrorized the area during the Civil War, leaving their families to pick up the pieces. Forty years later, in 1906, the Tilley Bend massacre occurred in the same area, causing a local woman, Elizabeth Bradley, known as a "Granny Woman" and healer, to place a curse on the community, in the process creating what may be the most well-known bit of Appalachian folklore in that part of Georgia. If you enjoy our stories, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast app. If you'd like an ad-free version of the podcast and other extras, like unreleased episodes and other content, go to our podcast host, Spreaker, and become a supporter of the Stories podcast!Thanks for listening

Katherine Rogue started not four years ago, but is wasting no time, spending as much time on stage as possible. She and Dan chat about coming up in comedy in a rural area, the trap that is feeling like you have to write new material weekly for the same crowd, and how having a background in other art forms has helped with stage presence. Also, how being observant while out helps with material, the “club” that is comedy, the vital importance of being able to pivot to other material, and the age-old advice of being honest about your time. Crowd work, comedy festivals, and if Dan has ever experienced a break-up! This episode covers it all!Katherine RogueKatherine Rogue is the matriarch of the Blacksburg, VA comedy scene. Her minivan humor can take a sharp turn as she explores observations from parenting, general life, and the upcoming doom of menopause.  Katherine has been a first-round loser in Game of Jokes, the Ultimate Comic Challenge, and Blue Ridge Comedy Knockout. She produces shows in the New River Valley of Virginia and performs throughout Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee.https://linktr.ee/ComediansGoneRogueOur Sponsors Visit any of the following sponsors and use promo code "AOBPOD" at checkout to receive:20% off an item at Liqure Gummies: https://liqure.com/ 15% off an item at Old Glory: https://oldglory.com/ 20% off an item at Aspire Drinks: https://aspiredrinks.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-comedy-podcast--5788059/support.Art of Bombing:"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recoverWebsite: http://artofbombingpod.comLinks: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.Hosts:Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/ Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/

In this Monday Market Data Report, co-host Mark Lumpkin breaks down the short-term rental numbers for Blue Ridge, one of the most popular mountain cabin destinations in the Southeast.This episode highlights just how wide the performance gap is in Blue Ridge — where top-performing properties can earn more than double what average listings make in the same bedroom category.Inside the data, you'll learn:What 3-bedroom cabins earn at average vs. top-tier performanceWhy occupancy swings in Blue Ridge are some of the largest we've seenWhy adding a 4th bedroom doesn't always move the needle — unless you're a top performerHow 5-bedroom properties unlock a massive revenue jump when executed correctlyWhy 6+ bedroom homes can exceed $250K per year in the top tierThe takeaway is clear: Blue Ridge strongly rewards great locations, views, amenities, and execution, while average properties leave a lot of money on the table.Whether you already own in Blue Ridge or are underwriting a potential cabin investment, this episode gives you the real numbers to understand where the upside truly lives.Have a market you want us to break down next? DM Mark and we'll bring the data.

In this episode, Blue Ridge Ruby organizers Jeremy Smith and Joe Peck join Andrew, Chris, and David to talk about the conference returning in 2026. They explain why it's different (single-track, long breaks, and memorable community activities), what they've learned from running it, and how folks can help (speaking, sponsoring, and attending). The discussion also highlights the importance of community and in-person interactions in the tech industry, offering insights into how these events support professional growth and long-term sustainability in software development. Hit download now to hear more!  Chris Oliver X/Twitter Andrew Mason X/Twitter Jason Charnes X/Twitter

Episode 163 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – January 29, 2026 Our destination is the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia—steep, green, and loaded with incredible trout water if you know where to look. We're blue-lining small mountain streams with Mark Taylor, Eastern Communications Director for Trout Unlimited and one of the most respected outdoor writers in the country. Virginia might be the most underrated fly-fishing state in the East. Freestone brook trout streams high in the mountains, spring creeks in the valleys, and big rivers loaded with trout, smallmouth and muskies. Stick around—we're breaking it all down.   With host Steve Haigh Be the first to know about new episodes.  Become a subscriber  Contact Mark Taylor:   Destination Angler Podcast:   Website YouTube Instagram & Facebook  @DestinationAnglerPodcast  Please check out our Sponsors: High N Dry Fishing Where science and performance meet.  Check out the full lineup of floatants, line dressings, and sighter waxes at www.highndryfishingproducts.com    Facebook @highndryfishingproducts  Instagram @highndryfishing Redd's Flies Premium flies, tied with purpose.  Redd's is a family-run company built around premium, hand-tied flies that actually hold up and flat-out catch fish, delivered to your doorstep in days, not weeks.   A portion of every order goes directly to organizations protecting trout habitat and restoring rivers.  Facebook @ReddsFlies      Instagram @ReddsFlies TroutRoutes  The #1 Mapping Resource for Trout Anglers.  Podcast listeners can try one month of TroutRoutes PRO for FREE by clicking the link in the episode description. Explore 50,000 trout streams with TroutRoutes today.   Get 1 Month Free   Facebook @troutinsights Instagram @TroutRoutes    Got Fishing  Crafting world-class fly-fishing adventures specially designed to your level of experience and budget.    Facebook @GotFishingAdventures Instagram @GotFishing    Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email shaigh@DestinationAnglerPodcast.com Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Recorded Dec 4, 2025

In this episode, Jason sits down with Pete Schuler, Senior Vice President and Head of Consulting at Blue Ridge, who brings more than 30 years of experience in the ESOP industry. As a trusted advisor on ESOP transactions and compliance, Pete has worked across all stages of the ESOP lifecycle and offers a deep, practical perspective on what makes these transactions successful. Jason and Pete dive into the key “R's” of an ESOP transaction, unpacking critical considerations around plan design, compliance, and transaction readiness. Drawing on Pete's extensive experience advising companies, working alongside investment banks, and leading complex ESOP projects, this conversation provides valuable insights for business owners and advisors navigating ESOP planning and execution.

Halloween night, 2001. A blue moon hangs over Virginia, a celestial event so rare it only occurs a handful of times per century. Seth, a young man wrestling with his faith and freshly removed from Liberty University, decides on a whim to drive out to the Blue Ridge Parkway alone. No plan, no destination, just a quiet stretch of road under a perfect, cloudless sky. He pulls into an empty turnout, not a single car in sight, and figures, why not take a night hike? The trail is short, the visibility through the trees is crystal clear, and he settles onto a bench to take in the stillness. That's when the silence becomes unnatural. No insects. No wind. Nothing, until the snapping of twigs begins circling him from the darkness. Back at his car, things escalate. Pinging sounds strike the steel frame of his 1970 Chevy Bel Air like pine cones being hurled from the void. The tree line ahead begins shifting, figures standing where there were none before. And on the grass median to his left, flat shapes appear like blankets tossed on the ground, cloaked and hooded but with no depth, no hands, no faces. Each time Seth looks away and back, they've moved closer. Then comes the flickering, a light sparking where a face should be, like a Bic lighter that can't hold a flame. Seth has never been able to find another account like this, and we try to unpack it through the lens of his testimony, childhood trauma, spiritual access, and the strange convergence of a once-in-a-generation night. Want to listen to this episode and an entire back catalog of exclusive members-only content? Check out a Blurry Creatures membership at ⁠https://blurrycreatures.com/pages/members Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, I sit down with my husband, Jonathon Schaech, for a candid look into marriage, money, identity, and creative purpose. Together, we unpack what our financial fights have really been about, how fear shows up for each of us, and why trust — not control — has become the foundation of our partnership. Jon shares openly about the evolution of his career, the impact sobriety has had on his life and work, and how our move to Nashville restored a sense of peace he didn't even realize he was missing. We talk honestly about what it looks like to support each other's dreams without competition, how we navigated my many business reinventions, and why letting go — of perfectionism, chaos, and old stories — has expanded everything from our marriage to our creative expression. This conversation is especially for the women whose partners may not yet fully understand their entrepreneurial dreams. We reflect on the values that have carried us through 13 years of growth — faith, honesty, sovereignty, and mutual respect — and what it means to choose each other again and again. Liked this episode? Make sure to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review with your takeaways — it helps us create the exact content you want more of. KEY POINTS: 00:00 Exciting Announcement: First In-Person Retreat 01:30 Welcome to Woman of Influence 02:19 Special Guest: Jonathon Schaech 03:17 Navigating Financial Conversations in Marriage 16:33 Balancing Dreams and Careers 26:47 Reflecting on Sunsets and Letting Go 27:23 Overcoming Chaos and Shame 27:54 The Grind and Wasted Hustle 28:47 Clearing the Past and Becoming Adults 29:09 Age and Perspective in Creativity 30:03 Wisdom from Stillness and Faith 31:25 Addressing Perfectionism and Sobriety 33:51 Ownership vs. Stewardship 37:08 Finding Your True Creative Expression 41:43 Blue Ridge and Social Media Support 45:29 Hopes for Hollywood and Personal Growth 46:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts QUOTABLES: “I'm not going in there talking about my husband this and my husband that because we've already done so much of that work in our marriage. It's like I get this space to actually work on myself. And I think that that's a huge thing. And that I'm grateful for in our marriage.” - Julie Solomon  “ When we got married that day on the beach, it wasn't glamor. It was just real. And I tried to live up to those values with you and God and everything I've learned over the course of these years made that commitment to you. And you have been loving, caring, forgiving, and I couldn't imagine doing anything less. I couldn't imagine being less for you.” - John Schaech GUEST RESOURCES: IG: www.instagram.com/johnschaech/ RESOURCES: ✨ Unscripted: My First In-Person Retreat in 2+ Years — Now Accepting Applications If you've felt your voice no longer matches the woman you've become, this intimate 2-day retreat in Nashville (Feb 5–6, 2026) is for you. Unscripted is where your message, identity, and leadership come back into alignment—without pressure, performance, or shrinking. Spots are limited and application-only. Apply now at juliesolomon.net/unscripted.

Listen to this story I was told back when I was a little feller.

This week, old time early radio days throwback quartet Bill and the Belles recorded live at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. Also, interviews with these novel retro performers. What began as a project to explore the space created between hillbilly and urban, between vaudeville and down home, has arrived somewhere entirely new. Bill and the Belles offers a contemporary reimagining of a bygone era, a vocal-centric performance that breathes new life into the sounds of early country music. At the foothills of the Blue Ridge and the forefront of old-time music, Bill and the Belles continue to further the music traditions of their region. From sentimental Southern ballads to the popular songs of Tin Pan Alley to regional fiddle breakdowns, a Bill and the Belles show is a celebration of the diversity country music once represented. Bill and the Belles play alongside America's top country and roots music artists as the house band for the historic radio program Farm and Fun Time presented by Radio Bristol and the Birthplace of Country Music. Lifelong musicians Kris Truelsen, Grace Van't Hof, Kalia Yeagle, and Karl Zerfas bring to the stage an uplifting show unlike any other, full of humor, high spirits, and all-around revelry. It's clear this group shares a rare musical connection and deep love for the music, and their excitement is contagious. In this week's “From the Vault” segment, musician, educator, and country music legacy Mark Jones offers an archival recording of Ozark original Aubrey Richardson performing the traditional song “Bunker Hill,” from the Ozark Folk Center State Park archives.

Jerry returns to the show for another deep dive into the South Mountains of North Carolina—a region he calls one of the strangest “hotspot” corridors he's ever researched. Drawing from decades of local accounts, family histories, and firsthand reports, Jerry traces a chilling pattern of unexplained activity across the South Mountains, the Great Smokies, the Blue Ridge, and even the Pacific Northwest.This episode unfolds like a living archive of the weird: early-1900s stories of eerie vocalizations rolling through the hollers, barns disturbed in the dead of night, and unsettling encounters that left families questioning what really stalks those ridgelines. From Carpenter's Knob to backroads you'd never notice on a map, the stories stack up—each one different, yet threaded by the same sense of being watched, followed, or hunted.Then the episode pivots into something even darker: the black-eyed children phenomenon.Through Dave, the lifelong partner of Susan, we hear her spine-freezing encounter that followed her mother's death—a night marked by a knock at the door, a request to be let inside, and the unmistakable terror of realizing something wasn't human. Susan's experience mirrors incidents tied to her mother years earlier, raising disturbing questions about generational patterns, grief triggers, and why certain places seem to attract the unexplainable.By the end, you'll be left wondering what makes these mountains a magnet for high-strangeness—and whether some forces don't just haunt locations… but follow bloodlines.Get Our FREE NewsletterGet Brian's Books Leave Us A VoicemailVisit Our WebsiteSupport Our SponsorsEpisode Timeline00:00 – Welcome back to the South Mountains series01:35 – What makes a “hotspot”? Patterns across mountain regions03:08 – Carpenter's Knob: the encounters that won't let go08:48 – Ray's experiences in the heart of the activity17:11 – Edward's roadside encounter after dark23:09 – Susan and the black-eyed children: a generational nightmareBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sasquatch-odyssey--4839697/support.