Podcasts about Shenandoah Valley

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park is a scenic road tied to the “See America First” movement of the early 20th century. The acquisition of land for the project was difficult, and displaced many families from their homes. Research: Harrison, Sarah Georgia. “The Skyline Drive: A Western Park Road in the East.” From Parkways: Past, Present and Future. International Linear Parks Conference. Appalachian State University. (1987). Via JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1xp3kv8.13 Jolley, Harley E., “Blue Ridge Parkway: The First 50 Years,” Appalachian State University Libraries Digital Collections, accessed May 14, 2025, https://omeka.library.appstate.edu/items/show/43667. Jones, Jenny. “Skyline Drive: Engineered with Nature In Mind.” Civil Engineering. April 2001. Kyle, Robert. “The Dark Side of Skyline Drive.” Washington Post. 10/17/1993. Miles, Kathryn. “Shenandoah National Park Is Confronting Its History.” Outside. 9/23/2019. https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/shenandoah-national-park-segregation-history/ Nash, Carole. “Native American Communities of the Shenandoah Valley: Constructing a Complex History.” 2020. https://cpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/sites.lib.jmu.edu/dist/9/133/files/2019/04/Native-American-Communities-of-the-Shenandoah-Valley.pdf National Park Service. “Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Drive: Virginia.” From Highways in Harmony online books exhibit. https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/hih/shenandoah/index.htm Roberts, Brett G. “Returning the Land: Native Americans and National Parks.” Ave Maria Law Review 148 (Spring, 2023). https://www.avemarialaw.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/v21.Roberts.final38.pdf Roosevelt, Franklin Delano. “The Dedication of Shenandoah National Park.” https://drive.google.com/file/d/134q1Gkk6Af0zl6bb_wekgqs0k2Wt9VPT/view Simmons, Dennis E. “Conservation, Cooperation, and Controversy: The Establishment of Shenandoah National Park, 1924-1936.” The Virginia Magazine of History and Biography , Oct., 1981. https://www.jstor.org/stable/4248512 S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration. “America's Highways 1776-1976.” U.S. Government Printing Office. https://archive.org/details/AmericasHighways1776-1976 Zeller, Thomas. “Consuming Landscapes: What We See When We Drive and Why It Matters.” Johns Hopkins University Press. 2022. https://dx.doi.org/10.1353/book.103002 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shenandoah Valley Chorus 5-18-2025

On today's broadcast of HOPE Talks we are joined by Sydney Hayslett and Michelle Roberts. Sydney is the executive director of Stone Haven and Michelle Roberts is the case manager for Stone Haven. Stone Haven is a local nonprofit that helps survivors of human trafficking do the hard work of healing. They serve victims right here in the Shenandoah Valley for more information about the work that Stone Haven does you can visit their website Stonehavenva.orgWe pray that today's broadcast will be a half hour of hope for your life! We would love to hear your feedback on HOPE Talks! Below is the link to a short survey! https://forms.office.com/Pages/DesignPageV2.aspx?prevorigin=shell&origin=NeoPortalPage&subpage=design&id=rMtAr_aDl02Dki0XlUrGIhYk-WuZPbRHkFKyO4BJJKdURTIyS1JBNU1TSjRYQjA3VVo5RlNPT0dSWS4u

Summary: *Ron Jones discusses treatment resistant depression (TRD), which occurs when multiple classes of antidepressant medications fail to provide relief. *TRD is described as a subcategory of major depressive disorder, unrelated to therapy but linked to the ineffectiveness of psychotropic medications. *Ron shares his personal experience with TRD, highlighting the frustration and discouragement of ineffective treatments and the lengthy process of testing medications. *He suggests that emotional and mental needs, when unmet, can lead to chemical imbalances, and treating only the symptoms without addressing underlying issues is insufficient. *Jones emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity in relation to God, suggesting that misalignment can contribute to mental health issues. *He recounts a pivotal moment in a church service where he felt the Holy Spirit's guidance, leading to a significant change in his depression. *Jones discusses the role of community, vulnerability, and addressing lies or misconceptions about oneself as crucial steps in the healing process. *He advocates for the recognition of negative emotions as truthful indicators and encourages seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance for healing. *Jones stresses the importance of relational accountability and having supportive people in one's life to provide honest feedback. *He concludes by affirming the possibility of finding hope and new life even after experiencing deep depression, through a relationship with Christ and understanding one's true identity. PODCAST INTRO: My guest today, Ron Jones, is a pastoral counselor and mental health advocate and he stopped by to share his first-hand experiences and insights into his victory over treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This discussion touches on the complexities of living with TRD, the challenges of traditional treatment methods, and the importance of having a strong identity in Christ and growing in faith throughout the healing process. What is Treatment-Resistant Depression? Treatment-resistant depression is a severe form of major depressive disorder. Ron explained that clinically, it is defined as depression that does not respond to at least three different classes of antidepressant medications. Ron also shared that this condition is not merely about resistance to therapy but is specifically linked to the ineffectiveness of psychotropic medicines. The Struggle with Traditional Treatments Ron describes the frustration of navigating the medical system, which often prioritizes treating symptoms over addressing root causes. He likens the process to taking aspirin for a headache without investigating the underlying cause. He even pointed out that this approach can be disheartening, especially when medications take weeks to show results, if at all. A Journey of Identity and Faith Throughout his journey, Ron emphasizes the importance of understanding one's true identity. He believes that much of mental illness stems from a misalignment between who we are and who we perceive ourselves to be. For Ron, this journey of self-discovery was deeply intertwined with his faith, which provided a foundation and a source of hope. This foundation withstood 13 years of struggling AND also provided room for growth and intimacy with Christ as he searched how to get out from under his depression. As shared in then opening clip….Ron was desperately clinging to hope God and yet had no hope. Steps Toward Healing Ron offered practical steps for those struggling with depression: Evaluate Your "Have To's": Examine the non-negotiables in your life that might be contributing to your stress and consider whether they are truly necessary. Identify Primary Lies: Reflect on the negative emotions you feel most often and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the first time you felt this way. Listen for the Holy Spirit: Spend time in silence, asking the Holy Spirit, "What's We most important thing I could hear right now?" and be open to whatever answer comes without editing it. Something I added, only because I have to do this: when I'm seeking God for an answer I have learned that I need to write it down. It is very commen for me to forget the details of what He spoke into my spirit. If you want to add a #4: Write down what you hear the Holy Spirit speak into your spirit and refer to it as often as you need to. Conclusion Ron's story gives us a deeper revelation about Treatment Resistant Depression because it's from his personal experience; his 13 year battle to find relief. His faith, community, and self-reflection was instrumental in overcoming his TRD. While traditional treatments may fall short mainly because they're go to is to fix things with medicine vs looking at a more holistic approach that would include a deep dive into one's identity. So Ron's journey offers hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles, reminding us that there is always a path to discovering the benefits of knowing the truth and having a stronger identity. Live Loved and Thrive! @alifeofthrive.com Sherrie Pilk With regard to the acronyms you'll hear Ron use, here is what they stand for (this info is more current than the audio intro to this podcast episode): SSRIs - (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are a class of antidepressants that help treat depression Sozo is a practice/method used by some Christian ministries to describe their approach to inner healing, which focuses on restoring broken relationships with God and healing past trauma (for more info check out sozo.org)  SNRIs - Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors PCP - Primary Care Physician BPD - Borderline Personality Disorder Resources along the same topic: Unrelenting Pain Known as The Suicide Disease (CRPS), with Darci Steiner -  https://alifeofthrive.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=9563&action=edit Autoimmune Disease, Pulmonary Fibrosis and Faith, with Sara Salazar - https://alifeofthrive.com/2021/09/01/autoimmune-disease/ Hope in the Midst of Chronic Illness, with Sara Willoughby - https://alifeofthrive.com/2025/01/01/hope-in-the-midst-of-chronic-illness-with-sara-willoughby/ Connect with Ron: Ron's podcast w/his friend (Nick): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ron-and-nicks-best-friend-podcast/id1599899345 Amazon link to Ron's most recent book - The Little Book of Forgiveness - The Pathway to Freedom: https://www.amazon.com/Little-Book-Forgiveness-pathway-freedom/dp/B0DYNXWKBW/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oljVyfzmkcvd-tRRqhc8qzcDCCeB-vKQpdasKmcPpGyLFkFehAMYradfiTGZARL3MVN6ar_YRewiXpEMrwt-ig.0u01g9j57uS-UD4NfXgrNw4IxQKkAQYxAoW0rJG8AV0&qid=1743803194&sr=8-1 Ron's Bio: R. Kenward Jones is a disruptive teacher, writer, podcaster (who isn't these days?), counselor, husband, father and grandfather.  He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and master's degrees in biblical studies and counseling.  His debut novel, Buried at Sea, was published by Penmore Press in 2022.  Daily, he writes proverbs, parables and prayers and shares them on his Facebook page and website to inspire and encourage. R. Kenward Jones is a US Navy veteran and served as both an enlisted man and officer for 12 years before he left the military to become a pastor.  After a 13-year long bout with treatment resistant depression he left the ministry to reset his life.  He knows the Valley of the Shadow of Death and the power of personal Creativity as the way through it and out of it. Currently he works as a counselor and teaches the 515A “zero excuses” bootcamp at the local YMCA.  He and Tina, his high school sweetheart, have been married for 40 years, have two children and one grandchild, and live in Southeastern Virginia although they still consider the Shenandoah Valley to be their “home.”  R. Kenward Jones enjoys life and joy tempered by suffering and more than anything wants to help other sufferers experience the same.

I always love having Jamerrill Stewart on the podcast because she brings so much encouragement and practicality to the table—especially for those of us feeding a lot of people every day. In this episode, we're talking all about freezer cooking, bulk shopping, and how to make mealtime a little less overwhelming. Jamerrill shares what meal prep looks like in her current season of life, how she keeps food on the table for her big crew, and simple ways anyone can start building more margin into their kitchen routine. In this episode, we cover: Life updates from Jamerrill and how homemaking looks in her current season of single motherhood The story behind how her freezer cooking system began and why it works for families of all sizes Tips for shopping in bulk, planning monthly grocery trips, and staying on budget with a large family How she preps ingredients—like meats and rice—in advance to simplify daily meal routines Her strategy for always doubling recipes and freezing extras for easy meals later Why having a stocked freezer made all the difference during a family medical crisis Creative ways she handles leftovers with a “choose-your-own-adventure” approach to meals The logistics of storing bulk food with multiple fridges and freezers throughout the house Kitchen tools and systems that help her manage daily meals for ten—like her oversized island and dual dishwashers Encouragement to start small with meal prep—even one extra freezer meal can lighten the load View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! ABOUT JAMERRILL Jamerrill Stewart is a seasoned homeschool mom of 9 (7 boys/2girls) with children ages 2 through 22. She shares about big batch cooking, mega canning, freezer meals and more from her slow and steady developing homestead in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Jamerrill has been making a full-time income online while raising her family for over a decade and she'd like to show you how you can, too. Join the Successful Business Momma Course waitlist largefamilytable.com/business which will help you build your dream online business while raising your family, just like Jamerrill has done! RESOURCES Listen to my first two podcast episodes with Jamerrill here and here Shop Jamerrill's big batch recipe guides here Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Jamerrill Stewart of Large Family Table | Website | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you'd like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Harrisonburg Public Works says the city's water conservation restrictions will likely continue through the week… On the 71st anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, students, educators, and civil rights leaders unveil a new historical marker in Harrisonburg… Food insecurity is on the rise in the Shenandoah Valley....

In this episode of The Valley Today, we take a deep dive into the ongoing and upcoming projects of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) specifically focusing on the I-81 corridor. Host Janet Michael, sat down for an extensive chat with Ken Slack, VDOT's communication specialist for the Staunton District. The pair delved into the CIP (Corridor Improvement Program) study for I-81, highlighting its importance and the breadth of work it involves.  'We're going to talk quite a bit about roads and transportation because it's always a topic that everyone has an opinion on,' stated Slack. He sheds light on the scope of I-81's traffic, mentioning that certain sections see about 70,000 vehicles a day. Ken emphasized VDOT's approach of 'not being short-sighted' and planning with future traffic projections in mind. One current major focus is the I-81 widening project at Strasburg. Janet pointed out, 'This is a hot mess right now,' illustrating local drivers' relief at its commencement. Ken explained the detailed steps being undertaken, from lane extensions to bridge replacements. He stressed the importance of safety and patience for drivers navigating these zones, along with the constant work being done behind the scenes to maintain and inspect the roads, bridges, and culverts under VDOT's purview across the 11 counties of the Staunton District. Highlighting the logistics of large projects, Ken noted, 'Some projects will take us past 2030 to complete.' He explained that while many projects are currently funded and underway, continuous studies and public feedback could add new projects to the pipeline. Public participation is key, and VDOT remains transparent, with numerous public meetings scheduled to ensure community input. The conversation also touched upon specific operations like the Improve 81 campaign, which started in 2018, and the crucial safety enhancements made early on. These include ramp extensions, new cameras, digital message signs, safety service patrols, and towing recovery incentives – all aimed at easing congestion and improving safety on this vital route. Ken offered insight into the project's timeline, detailing the expected completion of major segments like the widening at Strasburg by fall 2028. Additionally, the expected impacts on traffic patterns during construction phases were discussed, reinforcing the need for public cooperation and adherence to work zone safety regulations. In closing, Ken underscored VDOT's commitment to advancing transportation infrastructure to meet future needs while minimizing current-day traveler disruptions. For more information and updates on these extensive projects, readers are encouraged to visit Improve81.org. VDOT's consistent efforts, from real-time traffic management to long-term infrastructure planning, aim to sustain and improve the quality of travel in Virginia.

From a simple lunch invitation to leading a life-changing organization, Lauren Clouse's story is one of calling, courage, and deep faith. As CEO of Winchester Rescue Mission, Lauren never imagined she'd be running a growing nonprofit, expanding programs, and building partnerships across the Shenandoah Valley. But with a heart for people and a belief that “God doesn't call the qualified—He qualifies the called,” she stepped forward. Today, she leads with honesty and heart, guiding her team through difficult work while holding onto the joy that makes it sustainable.In this episode, Lauren opens up about what it's like to feel unqualified yet called, and how those two truths can coexist. She shares how finding moments of laughter, maintaining authentic relationships, and leaning on God's provision allow her to keep going when the work is heavy. Her story is a moving reminder that saying yes to something bigger than yourself doesn't require perfection—only a willingness to show up with grace, grit, and joy.To learn more about Winchester Rescue Mission, Click Here!To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

The rain is here, and it's going to get interesting in the Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia this week, weather-wise. #TeamAFP's Chris Graham and Crystal Graham talk about the weather to open the Monday podcast. Crystal Graham is our resident weather reporter. She has the scoop on what we can expect from the slow-moving storm making its way from the Southeast. Also on the show: Crystal updates us on local issues in Waynesboro involving a proposed increase in the meals tax and another project at the old Virginia Metalcrafters Crystal does her best to get Chris in further trouble with the UVA Basketball fan base, getting him to talk about the new hire by Ryan Odom to his staff. UVA Baseball continues its late-season run toward an NCAA Tournament berth. The “what else are we working on” segment includes the latest nonsense from DC involving DOGE not saving us money and Donald Trump taking a bribe, and details on a story that we're working on about how Albemarle County Police are trying a new approach to dealing with mental health.

In this episode, Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today, spoke with Jenny Grooms, the Executive Director for the foundations of Valley Health, about the innovative Stronger Together campaign. This initiative aims to enhance various aspects of healthcare in the Valley Health system, focusing on mental health, heart health, and extending care accessibility. Valley Health, a nonprofit health system, relies on its foundation to segregate charitable dollars from operational funds. Jenny highlighted their recent projects at Warren Memorial Hospital, which features recreational trails and the Bedside Connect program. These initiatives underscore the dual importance of physical and mental well-being for both patients and healthcare staff. The trails offer a mental respite for the staff, while Bedside Connect minimizes the need for families to travel, allowing remote interactions with patients and doctors. The Stronger Together campaign addresses three primary pillars - mental health, heart health, and accessibility. The mental health aspect emerged from a community health needs assessment, identifying mental health as a top priority. Plans include building a mental health pavilion with comprehensive outpatient programs. For heart health, the campaign will expand the heart and vascular center, adding procedure rooms and new technologies to improve treatments for conditions like atrial fibrillation. The accessibility pillar focuses on creating a mobile fleet for health clinics and mammography to reach underserved rural areas. Valley Health is leveraging technology to bring healthcare directly to the community. The mobile mammography unit and the mobile health clinic are ground-breaking initiatives designed to overcome the barriers of distance and transportation, which are significant issues in the rural region. The mobile units offer services such as screenings and telehealth consultations, making it easier for individuals to receive timely care without the stress of extensive travel, thereby promoting better health outcomes. Funding for the Stronger Together campaign has been a community-driven effort. The campaign, with an ambitious goal of raising $20 million over three years, has already secured $17.1 million during its initial phase. Contributions have come from various avenues such as individual donors, grants, and matching funds. Valley Health emphasizes flexible giving options, allowing donors to contribute through methods like IRAs, stocks, or even estate inclusion. Jenny explains that charitable giving not only benefits the community but also offers tax advantages to the donors. She encourages those interested to visit Valley Health's website for detailed information and to explore diverse giving options. The heartfelt conversation also shed light on how Valley Health ensures transparency and efficiency in utilizing donations. The collaborative efforts from medical staff, businesses, and community members are pivotal in achieving the campaign's goals. Such collective participation underscores the campaign's theme - being stronger together. Jenny affirmed that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a significant role in providing better healthcare infrastructure and services. For more information or to make a contribution, community members are encouraged to visit Valley Health's website at valleyhealthlink.com/stronger. The online portal offers easy navigation to learn more about the campaign, its impact, and how to get involved.

Soil health is attainable. Anthony Beery of Beery Farms and Cumberland Hay and Straw LLC shares that message with Mary Sketch Bryant and Jeff Ishee based on his farming experience and journey. Anthony grew up in the Shenandoah Valley where he and his father Danny raised dairy cows and poultry. Anthony benefitted from his father's mentorship and encouragement to be open to new ideas and experimenting.Anthony and his family moved to Cumberland County in 2018 to begin custom crop production and start Cumberland Hay & Straw LLC. Anthony received the 2024 Carl Luebben Soil Health and Water Quality Award at the Virginia Farm-to-Table Conference for his commitment, example, and mentorship of other farmers.  If you are just starting your soil health journey, Anthony emphasizes taking a step and starting with the basics: learn the soil type and previous land use, test for nutrient content and pH, and understand the areas where nutrients are low and high. For Anthony, soil compaction was a limiting factor on his farm that started his commitment to earnest no-till farming, experimenting with diverse cover crop rotations, and continued devotion to core principles of soil health. As always, we encourage you to start your soil health journey and follow the four principles of soil health: 1) Keep the Soil Covered -- Cover crops are our friends; 2) Minimize soil disturbance -- Practice no-till or gentle tillage in your field or garden as much as possible; 3) Maximize living roots year-round -- to improve biodiversity and life in the soil; and 4) Energize with diversity -- through crop rotation and/or livestock integration. Yes, soil health is attainable and we can all be 4 The Soil! To enjoy the recent We Are 4 the Soil song created by the Flip Charts, please visit   https://www.4thesoil.org/#we-are-4-the-soil-video. For questions about soil and water conservation practices and outdoor educational activities for youth, call or visit a USDA Service Center, a Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District office, or your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office.  

What happens when a lifelong outdoorsman from Eastern Maryland starts noticing signs he can't ignore — screams in the dark, gliding figures in the powerline fields, and a fox that seems more like a sentry than an animal? In this gripping and emotional episode, we sit down with Derek, a listener from Easton, Maryland, who shares his incredible decade-long journey into unexplained encounters near his home. From his first terrifying experience at age 11 to sightings of 13 distinct beings — including one with Down Syndrome features and a childlike face — Derek's story unfolds like a living mystery. You'll hear firsthand accounts of silent movement across powerlines, glowing eyes in the marsh, and the eerie moment his dog refused to go any farther. Along the way, Derek reflects on the spiritual side of these experiences and how they've transformed his understanding of the world. Locations include the Choptank River, Talbot County, Royal Oak, and the Shenandoah Valley. This isn't just another Bigfoot story — it's a haunting testimony of belief, ridicule, and the search for truth in the woods.Contact Derek here:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076763059610derekmarth54@gmail.com

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Jessica Hall, co-founder of Harmony Harvest Farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. What began as a simple question during a family beach vacation—“Where do florists get flowers?”—sparked the beginning of a 20-acre flower farm that now ships bouquets and heirloom chrysanthemum plants across the country.Jessica shares how she, her sister, and their mom grew their passion into a thriving business rooted in sustainability, technology, and a whole lot of heart. From saving the last U.S.-based flower frog manufacturer to building a farm that blends heritage blooms with modern tools, this is a conversation full of wisdom and inspiration.Whether you're just getting started in the garden, knee-deep in flower farming, or dreaming of building something special with your family, Jessica's story is packed with real-life lessons, encouragement, and the kind of flower talk that makes you want to dig in and grow.

Brennan Edwards is a singer/songwriter based in the northern part of the Shenandoah Valley. Brennan has been making a name for himself well beyond his hometown of Winchester, Virginia. Brennan's interest in country music began with Artists such as David Allan Coe and Conway Twitty, but Hank Williams ultimately played the biggest part in the music he plays today. Brennan is also greatly influenced by bluegrass. He spent much of his childhood going to bluegrass festivals with his grandmother, and His mother's five siblings are locally and nationally renowned bluegrass musicians, all currently recording and performing in their own bands. This has been a big year for Brennan, and I will not be surprised to see this guy's career explode before we know it.

On this episodeWe are back from a fun filled long weekend of gaming in the Shenandoah Valley. We will talk about all the games we played: our favorites, the ones that fell flat, the ones that had us in deep concentration, and the ones that sparked the most laughter. But first, Greg has a few questions that are designed to make me think entirely too hard for a Saturday morning.Social Media

Laughers, today, we're inviting you to join us on a journey through the serene landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley with Farmer Tony of Madeline Farms. Known for his dedication to rescued animals and crafting unique, immersive farm stay experiences, Farmer Tony is here to share the heartfelt journey behind his top-ranked oasis. In this episode, you'll discover the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts that his farm offers to visitors seeking adventure, tranquility, and connection with nature and each other. Laughers, brace yourself for inspiring stories, unexpected discoveries, and a peek into the loving community Farmer Tony has cultivated—one where both humans and animals find healing and joy. So, saddle up as we delve into the magic of Madeline Farms. Cheers to more connection, relaxation and unique experiences! Tik Tok: farmertonymadelinefarms Instagram: @madeline_farms Facebook: Madeline Farms Website: madelinefarms.com Address: 1080 Antioch Road South, Luray, VA  Phone: 540.244.7133 Email: tony@madelinefarms.com This podcast is brought to you by: FWAF [f-wahf] = The Funny Womacks & Friends We offer comedy shows, classes & this podcast! thefunnywomacks.com Facebook & Instagram: @thefunnywomacks YouTube: The Funny Womacks Get some free stuff & discounts to support this podcast!  Love Podcasts? Love Audiobooks? Get a Free One on Us!

One dose of Claritin sent me into a terrifying spiral of depression and dark thoughts that changed my approach to seasonal allergies forever.In this episode, I share my frightening experience with Claritin and why I now rely exclusively on natural remedies. After moving to Virginia's Shenandoah Valley (the pollen capital of the United States), I developed severe seasonal allergies for the first time in my life and turned to Claritin for relief.What happened next was shocking. Within days, I experienced severe depression and disturbing thoughts that disappeared completely when I stopped taking the medication. This little known but documented side effect of Claritin led me to research and develop a comprehensive natural approach to managing seasonal allergies.In this episode, I break down my five part strategy for handling allergies naturally, including homeopathic remedies, nettle leaf tinctures, essential oils with antihistamine properties, and gut health support. Whether you're dealing with mild seasonal discomfort or debilitating allergy symptoms, you'll learn practical, natural alternatives that provide relief without dangerous side effects.In today's episode, we're chatting about: • The documented but rarely discussed neuropsychological side effects of Claritin • How homeopathic remedies like Hylands and Rin Allergy provide fast relief • The power of nettle leaf as a natural antihistamine • Essential oil blends that reduce allergy symptoms • The connection between gut health and seasonal allergiesEpisode Resources Shop My Seasonal Allergy Wellness CabinetShop Wyld NotesGet 10% off a Wyld Notes Discovery Set + a $20 coupon towards your first purchaseWatch on YoutubeMentioned in this episode:Toxin Free Faves adsHead over to toxinfreefavorites.com to  shop all the toxin-free goodies that you would find in my home. Curated, tested, and well loved by me!

Joel Salatin, an American farmer, author, and lecturer, is on a quest to fix our broken food system.In this episode of the Align podcast, Joel joins us to explore the collapse of industrial agriculture and how we can take back control of our food and health. From regenerative farming to cooking at home, he explains three key actions anyone can take today to achieve food freedom. OUR GUESTJoel Salatin and his family operate Polyface Farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, producing salad bar beef, pigaerator pork, pastured poultry and forestry products. Chemical-free since coming to the property in 1961, the family pastures livestock and hosts some 15,000 visitors per year.Author of 16 books, Joel is editor of the world's leading pastured livestock trade journal, The Stockman Grass Farmer, and writes columns in numerous print and electronic publications. He travels the world promoting chemical-free agriculture, food freedom, and profitable farming businesses.His blog is Musings from the Lunatic Farmer and podcast is Beyond Labels. Polyface has a formal stewardship and apprenticeship program to germinate young farmers.JOEL SALATIN

This week on the @theaccidentalhomeschoolmama podcast

Laughers, get ready to savor every moment with Sarah Baker-McEvilly, founder of BMC Bakes in Harrisonburg—a gluten-free bakery haven in the Shenandoah Valley! From kitchen to storefront, discover how Sarah transformed her love for baking, inspired by her grandmother and cultivated at Heritage Bakery, into a thriving storefront that serves up irresistible treats for events, weddings, events, and everyday walk-ins. From her army days to becoming a staple at local farmer's markets, Sarah shares her journey of perseverance and community building. You'll uncover the secrets behind her gluten-free baking techniques that make her pastries indistinguishable from their gluten-filled counterparts. Plus, learn about her exciting plans to continue their popular cake decorating class, bread days, and other new vibrant events on the horizon at BMC Bakes. Whether you're near or far, get ready to indulge in the warmth of homemade charm that's as inviting as Sarah's spirit. Cheers to sweet stories and sweeter treats! Instagram: @bmcbakes Facebook: BMC Bakes Email Sarah: sarahbmc@bmcbakes.com Website: bmcbakes.com Address: 157 N Main St., Unit 100, Harrisonburg VA This podcast is brought to you by: FWAF [f-wahf] = The Funny Womacks & Friends We offer comedy shows, classes & this podcast! thefunnywomacks.com Facebook & Instagram: @thefunnywomacks YouTube: The Funny Womacks Affiliate Links You May Also Be Interested In: Love Podcasts? Love Audiobooks? Get a Free One on Us!

General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard was one of the senior commanders of Southern forces during the Civil War. It was he who initiated the hostilities by opening fire on Ft. Sumter in Charleston harbor, in April, 1861.  In July of that year, having taken command of the Confederate Army of the Potomac, he triumphed in the first serious clash of the war, at Manassas, Virginia. His army, aided by reinforcements from Johnston's army in the Shenandoah Valley, routed a Federal army under General McDowell. Had it been his army instead that routed, it is possible the Civil War might have ended that same year, as the path to Richmond would have been wide open.  This is his account of the battle, including the strategic situation leading up to it. As an afterward, he added a very revealing appraisal of the relations between him and Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and the reasons why, in his opinion, the South failed to win its war of secession.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In a recent episode of Valley Today, host Janet Michael transported her listeners to the cultural heart of Berryville, Clark County, through an engaging conversation with Martha Reynolds, the Executive Director of the Barns of Rose Hill. Bridging past and present, Reynolds painted a vivid picture of the barn's dynamic offerings, from art exhibitions and concert series to educational programs. The Barns' rich calendar is brimming with events that cater to a variety of interests. Reynolds highlighted some standout exhibitions, such as the 'World of Wood' show and the collective exhibit from the Potomac River Artist Guild, showcasing beautiful still lifes and nature scenes. Additionally, the Barns will feature an exhibit by Rosa and Winton Eugene from South Carolina, renowned for their compelling pottery and masks. A Charles M. Schultz traveling exhibition is also on the horizon, celebrating Peanuts' first Black character, Franklin. This event promises to be an artistic exploration of social themes with supplementary programs like comic-making classes. The conversation shifted to the Barns' enduring legacy as a premier music venue. With its remarkable acoustics, the Barns attract diverse musical acts, including bluegrass, Celtic, jazz, and classical guitar. Reynolds beamed with pride as she recounted how performers have likened playing at the Barns to “playing inside a guitar.” Upcoming shows include a documentary screening about esteemed guitarist Danny Gatton and an authentic Argentinian tango performance. Reynolds emphasized the Barns' thoughtful approach to accessibility—offering free admission to galleries and affordable concert tickets, all while ensuring fair compensation for artists. The forthcoming membership drive and annual benefit gala, Belmont at the Barns, will help sustain its wide array of free programs. In closing, Reynolds invited everyone to explore the Barns of Rose Hill. Whether planning a visit to browse exhibitions, attend a concert, or join a workshop, the Barns promise a little something for everyone: a true testament to the vibrant cultural fabric of Berryville and the Shenandoah Valley.  

Laurel Ridge Community College is making waves with its comprehensive and in-demand healthcare programs. In a recent discussion hosted by Janet Michael on The Valley Today, attendees had the chance to hear from key members of the college faculty about the various career opportunities available through their health professions courses. Guy Curtis, the Director of Marketing at Laurel Ridge, opened the conversation by describing the versatility and rapid paths to meaningful healthcare careers offered by the college. Curtis noted the extensive range of programs including Fast Track and short-term courses aimed at equipping students for immediate employment in the healthcare sector. Professor Kate Gochenour highlighted the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program, which defies the traditional notion that healthcare careers are confined to roles involving direct patient interaction. The MLT program, she explained, trains students to perform crucial diagnostic testing, with a curriculum designed to accommodate various lifestyles through hybrid learning models. Dr. Rekha Parameswaran elaborated on the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. With 28 years of experience, Dr. Parameswaran shared insights into the hands-on nature of the course, the diverse practice settings available post-graduation, and the importance of compassion and strong interpersonal skills in this field. Dr. Scott Vanderkooi, Dean of Health Professions, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive support faculty receive to ensure student success. He emphasized the continuous growth and demand in healthcare fields, particularly within the Shenandoah Valley, and the diverse student base Laurel Ridge caters to, from recent high school graduates to adults seeking career changes. The conversation also touched on the significant role that various healthcare employers, like Blue Ridge Hospice and local hospitals, play in providing real-world experience to students through internships and clinical rotations. The commitment to community and high employment rates post-graduation reflect the program's success. Looking ahead, Laurel Ridge aims to keep pace with the evolving needs of the healthcare industry, ensuring their programs remain relevant and adapt to new demands. With the support of initiatives like G3 funding, many students can complete these rigorous programs without the burden of financial strain, making healthcare careers accessible to a broader audience. For those interested in joining these esteemed programs, Laurel Ridge provides numerous resources including advising sessions, dual enrollment for high school students, and information sessions such as the upcoming ones for the MLT program. Applications for the MLT program are due by May 1st, and the PTA program will start accepting applications from April 15th to May 15th.

Laughers, get ready to dive into an exciting new adventure as Massanutten Resort launches its brand new comedy club in the cozy and intimate Elevations Lounge, a whiskey bar with views of breathtaking mountain scenery year round! Join us as Dawn Davis Womack chats with Mark Litz, Vice President of Operations for Food and Beverage at Massanutten Resort, about the rapid development of this new comedy hotspot. Learn how this dynamic partnership with The Funny Womacks and Friends aims to showcase rising local talent alongside regional and national touring comedians to fulfill a vision of, making Shenandoah Valley a premier destination for stand-up comedy. Plus, hear how Mark's vision for entertainment goes beyond laughs with lively music events, exciting summer activities, and more family-friendly fun to create cherished memories. Whether you're a local, thrill-seeker, a family vacationer, or just looking to unwind with a good laugh, this episode is filled with inspiration and joy. So sit back, relax, and join us as we share laughs and insights about this amazing new venture! Cheers! New! Comedy Club: massresort.com Facebook: Massanutten Resort Instagram: @massresort Buy Comedy Show Tickets: www.massresort.com/dine/dining-events/comedy-club Mark Litz on LinkedIN: linkedin.com/in/mark-litz-379677323 This podcast is brought to you by: FWAF [f-wahf] = The Funny Womacks & Friends We offer comedy shows, classes & this podcast! thefunnywomacks.com Facebook & Instagram: @thefunnywomacks YouTube: The Funny Womacks Affiliate Links You May Also Be Interested In: Love Podcasts? Love Audiobooks? Get a Free One on Us!

Visit Staunton: The Shenandoah Valley's Hidden Gem for Nature, History, and Community.Today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series takes us on a journey to the picturesque Shenandoah Valley in Virginia as we chat with Samantha Johnson, the Director of Tourism for Visit Staunton. Nestled in a sweet spot close to major urban areas like D.C. and Richmond, Staunton is a small town rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Stanton is a must-visit four-season destination, from scenic railway excursions to bustling arts festivals and delectable culinary experiences. Whether seeking a serene hike among the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains or a vibrant street fair, Staunton has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the unique blend of classic architecture, modern artistic expression, and local pride that makes Staunton a gem of the Shenandoah Valley.DISCUSSION TOPICSFamily-Friendly Activities in StauntonOverview of Staunton as a four-season destination.Discussion of the moderate climate and variety of outdoor activities.The Shenandoah National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway.Availability of hiking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.Cultural and Historical Aspects of StauntonStaunton's rich architectural heritage.The role of Visit Staunton in economic development.Notable historical sites include the Blackfriars Playhouse and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library.Community and Tourism in StauntonCommunity involvement and partnerships in promoting tourism.Local businesses and arts, including galleries and bookstores.Events and Festivals in StauntonHeifetz Music Institute and Staunton Music Festival.Queen City Mischief and Magic and its popularity.Local events include Shop and Dine Out and Bluegrass jam sessions.CONNECT WITH VISIT STAUNTONTo see everything Staunton has to offer, check out the Visit Staunton website at https://www.visitstaunton.com and follow their social media channels for the latest updates and travel inspiration:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stauntonvaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitstaunton/NEXT STEPSVisit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com.KEYWORDSVisit Staunton, Shenandoah Nationa Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast#VisitStaunton #ShenandoahNationaPark #BlueRidgeParkway #OutdoorAdventures #Podcast My Favorite Podcast Tools: Production by Descript Hosting Buzzsprout Show Notes by Castmagic Website powered by Podpage Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomed the key figures from Opportunity Scholars, a promising non-profit organization dedicated to connecting individuals to jobs and education in the Shenandoah Valley. Joining her were Rachel Schaefer, CEO of Opportunity Scholars, Caroline Brown, Director of Development and Growth, and Shonda Avis, HR Manager for Holtzman Oil and Propane. Rachel opened the discussion by providing an overview of what Opportunity Scholars is all about. “Opportunity Scholars is an organization that connects individuals to jobs and to education. We take people who are unemployed or underemployed and come from low to middle-income families and help connect them to employment and help connect them to an education.” She emphasized the organization's growth since its inception in 2019 and the positive impact it's had on the community. Rachel conveyed her gratitude to partners like Holtzman Corp for their invaluable support. Janet highlighted the success and the critical role partnerships play in the expansion of Opportunity Scholars. She noted that while some organizations struggle with expansion, Opportunity Scholars is prospering, thanks to their strategic alliances with various businesses and educational institutions. Caroline delved deeper into the organization's growth strategy, particularly highlighting their expansion into Shenandoah County, thanks to a generous gift from Bill Holtzman. “We are very focused on career and technical education because let's face it – we are seeing critical shortages in everything from HVAC to electrical, to nursing,” Brown stated. She emphasized the importance of their partnerships with local schools, businesses, and the need for a dedicated coach to support their scholars. Shonda shed light on the diversity of opportunities within Holtzman Corp and the mutual benefits of their partnership with Opportunity Scholars. Avis elaborated on how the corporation's support aligns with Holtzman's community-focused ethos, providing a healthy pipeline of qualified candidates for various roles within their extensive business operations. The conversation also touched upon the significance of community engagement and the importance of local support. Shonda highlighted Holtzman's commitment to giving back to the community, noting Bill Holtzman's philosophy of attributing his business success to community support and his personal passion for education. Rachel and Caroline both emphasized the need for local support to sustain and grow Opportunity Scholars. Caroline issued a plea for a new coach and highlighted the importance of community involvement in spreading the word about their mission. She encouraged everyone to engage with their social media platforms to stay updated and help spread the word. Learn more about Opportunity Scholars on their website: https://opportunityscholars.org/ and by following them on Facebook.

The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum has proven to be a beacon of learning and community engagement in the Valley. In this episode of The Valley Today, Janet Michael sat down with Executive Director Dawn Devine and Director of Development and Marketing Tammy Stevenson to discuss the museum's extensive programs and upcoming events. As the Executive Director, Dawn provided a heartfelt overview of the museum's impact in the previous year, mentioning that they served over 71,000 people directly through their engaging exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities. Additionally, the museum indirectly impacted more than 102,000 individuals through various offsite events and outreach programs. Dawn explained specific community outreach efforts, emphasizing their mission-driven attendance. This initiative includes their Museums for All program, which allows families with EBT cards to enter the museum for a minimal fee. Furthermore, the museum's free Fridays and sensory-friendly nights ensure that everyone, regardless of financial status or sensory needs, can enjoy the museum's offerings. Tammy noted that 10% of their attendance is mission-driven, meaning those visitors benefit from subsidized fees and special accommodations. The museum's inclusive approach extends to their summer camps, where they funded 71 full scholarships out of 500 campers. Dawn explained that the goal is to make these enriching experiences accessible to all, without singling out those who receive financial assistance. Highlighting their commitment to diversity, the museum is working towards becoming fully bilingual, with all parent messaging available in Spanish. Apart from their day-to-day educational activities, the museum also hosts several events. Coming up on March 27th is the “Are You Smarter than a Fourth Grader” event, patterned after the popular TV game show but tailored to fourth-grade curriculum standards. Tammy shared that this fun and educational competition not only spotlights students from local schools but also fosters a deeper appreciation for teachers and the learning process. In May, the museum will benefit from the Frederick County Rotary Club's Golf Ball Drop fundraiser, where participants can sponsor golf balls for a chance to win prizes. Tammy detailed how proceeds from this event will support the museum's foster care pass program, allowing foster families to enjoy the museum for free. For more information about Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum's programs and events, visit their website: https://discoverymuseum.net/ 

In this episode of The Valley Today, Janet Michael hosts United Way Day with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV). The discussion covers the history, mission, and community impact of UWNSV. Andy explains the organization's role as a clearinghouse for donations and its focus on health, financial stability, and education. They also discuss how community members and local businesses can support UWNSV through donations, volunteering, and participation in events like the annual meeting and Day of Caring. Janet shares her excitement about becoming the new board chair and highlights the importance of workplace giving campaigns and other fundraising efforts. Register to attend the annual meeting by clicking here. Learn more about United Way NSV and sign up to be part of an impact grant panel on their website: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/ 

Episode Synopsis:  What is the fate of Craigsville, Virginia after a prison closed in the small, rural town?  We're envisioning the future of Craigsville and investigating how decarcerating the economy can become a win for all.This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: What happens to a small town when a prison shuts down? The Augusta Correctional Center employed many residents and brought business to Craigsville, Virginia, a two square-mile, 900-person town located in the Shenandoah Valley. But when the prison closed in the summer of 2024 with minimal warning and no time for planning, Craigsville residents and the town's economy were hit hard. In this special report, Laura Flanders & Friends correspondents Chelsea Higgs Wise and Lewis Raven Wallace head to Craigsville to learn about how the town is struggling, possible solutions from locals, and the larger questions around our country's prison industrial complex. How can small, rural communities be supported in a sustainable transition away from a carceral economy? Join us as we envision the future of Craigsville and investigate how decarcerating the economy can become a win for all. Chelsea Higgs Wise is a community organizer based in Richmond, Virginia whose work focuses on empowering Black communities economically and educationally. She is co-founder and director of Marijuana Justice, a Black-led organization established to repair the harms of the drug war. Durham, North Carolina-based Lewis Raven Wallace is an independent journalist, author, and the Abolition Journalism Fellow at Interrupting Criminalization. Plus, a commentary from Laura on what could happen to the Augusta Correctional Center under the Trump administration.“At one point there were 43 institutions in the Virginia Departments of Corrections . . . That number has dramatically decreased as a result of measures put in place, such as incentive credits, the juvenile parole bill, and other pieces of legislation that helped sentencing.” - Sincere Allah“What I would say is that building these prisons has not changed communities. It hasn't helped people inside. It hasn't helped create all these amazing jobs . . . Instead of investing $1.5 billion in our prisons, parole, probation, what if that was invested in communities?” - Margaret Breslau“Augusta Correctional opened in 1985. Probably at least half of the population here was working over there at that time. And it boosted the community greatly . . , boosted the town operational costs also. Kind of devastating for them to leave.” - Richard L. Fox“There's a gorgeous gym in [the prison] that is just full of equipment that these young people could very much get something out of. There's a beautiful library in there. There's two ball fields there. There's plenty of office space. It could be turned into a lot of things.” - Tracy MartinCorrespondents:•  Lewis Raven Wallace: Journalist & Activist, Durham, North Carolina•  Chelsea Higgs Wise: Journalist & Policy Advocate, Richmond, VirginiaGuests:•  Sincere Allah: State Organizer, REFORM Alliance•  Margaret Breslau: Co-Founder, Virginia Prison Justice Network•  Pam L. Carter: Augusta County Board of Supervisors, Craigsville, Virginia•  Richard L. Fox: Mayor, Craigville, Virginia•  Tracy Martin: Fire Chief, Volunteer Fire Department, Craigsville Virginia•  Sandy Oscar Sprouse: Owner, Grandma's Busy Bee•  Fred Sprouse:  Superintendent of Maintenance, Craigsville, Virginia•  David Swink: Cattle & Hay Farmer, Craigsville, Virginia•  Catherine Moyers-Youell: Retired Teacher, Craigsville, Virginia•  Bill Youell: Retired Chemical Engineer, Craigsville, Virginia•  Claudette Wilcher: Pastor Bells Valley Worship Center, Craigsville, Virginia Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channelSubscribe to episode notes via PatreonMusic In the Middle:  "Steppin" , "Mont Blanc" "Hearts a Flutter" & "Tender & Curious" by Podington Bear.Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:•  Big Pharma vs The People: The Fight To Save America's Largest Generic Drug Manufacturer, Watch / Podcast Episode•  The Defund Movement in 2024: Frontline Reporters Separate Myth from Reality, Watch / Podcast Episode•  Ask Angola Prison: What Difference Can a Play Make?, Watch / Podcast: Episode, Full Conversation•  Mariame Kaba: Rooting Out Our Culture of Harm, Watch / Podcast Related Articles and Resources:• Criminal Legal Reform:  Rehabilitation Over Incarceration, ACLU Virginia• Prison closes but hometown is open for business, by Sandy Hausman, June 13, 2024, Radio IQ, WVTF, Virginia's Public Radio•. Where people in prison come from:  The geography of mass incarceration in Virginia, by Emily Widra & Kenneth Gilliam, July 2022, Prison Policy Initiative• Mass Incarceration Trends, May 21, 2024, Sentencing Project•. Virginia Senate Passes REFORM Bill SB 936 in unanimous vote 40-0, February 4, 2025, Reform Alliance• Marijuana Justice Organization  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O'Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

In this episode of the Valley Today, host Janet Michael introduces Bill Whitson, the owner and chef of Billy Sous food truck. They discuss Billy Sous' inception, sparked by Bill's wife during the COVID-19 pandemic and his prior experiences in the food and restaurant industry. Bill shares insights into his culinary background, the challenges of running a food truck, and the intricacies of using sous-vide cooking methods on the truck. The conversation delves into the community's tight-knit nature, particularly within the Shenandoah Valley and Winchester, and highlight how Bill's food truck business has intertwined with local events and initiatives. Specific mentions of working partnerships with local establishments like Bonnie Blue and challenges posed by weather and logistics are covered. Bill explains his approach to menu flexibility, the importance of innovation and customer feedback in creating new dishes, and emphasizes the communal aspect of the food truck business. They explore various operational aspects, from adapting recipes for a mobile environment to balancing flavor and practicality. The discussion wraps up with Bill's commitment to community support, including regularly contributing to charitable events and local PTOs, and the operational strategies like online ordering and potential DoorDash integrations to improve customer experience. The conversation concludes with information on where and how listeners can find and contact Billy Sous for catering, events, or regular food truck service: https://billysous.com/ Follow him on Facebook for updates.

Laughers, today we dive into the heart of one of the Shenandoah Valley's vibrant experiences as we transport you to Stover Hall, a stunning wedding and event venue nestled amid breathtaking mountain views. Christina Grieve, who owns the venue with her husband, Wes, shares their offerings, their story, inspirations and much more! From its origins as a dirt floor horse barn to a chic event space, listen to this heartwarming journey of turning dreams into reality. We'll explore what's in it for you at their wine tasting room, fun year round events and uniquely charming setting for weddings complete with captivating Blue Ridge Mountain vistas—from intimate elopements to grand celebrations. We'll uncover the venue's history including where it got its name, its evolution, and delightful rustic charm. Plus, you'll hear stories about the personalized touches they offer couples, including a lock wall for newlyweds to commemorate their special day!  Find out more about what's next at Stover Hall as Christina reveals plans for expanding their array of events including comedy nights, live music, popular pop up markets and upcoming Valentine's Day dinner and dance. Whether you're a local or planning a visit to the Shenandoah Valley, tune in to discover the magic, romance and unforgettable memories with friends that await you at Stover Hall. Cheers! Stover Hall: stoverhall.com Address: 1381 US Hwy Business 340, Luray, VA 22835, US Phone: (540) 742-1703 Facebook: Stover Hall Instagram: @stoverhallweddingvenue This podcast is brought to you by: FWAF [f-wahf] = The Funny Womacks & Friends We offer comedy shows, classes & this podcast! thefunnywomacks.com Facebook & Instagram: @thefunnywomacks YouTube: The Funny Womacks Affiliate Links You May Also Be Interested In: Love Podcasts? Love Audiobooks? Get a Free One on Us!

In this episode of The Valley Today's Tourism Tuesday - Shenandoah County edition, host Janet Michael and cohost Kary Haun talk with local business owner, Meredith Norris from Flour & Water Co. in Woodstock and dive into the bakery's history and the roles of various family members and partners, including Paige, Jacoby, and Tyler. They discuss the shop's menu evolution, including pastries, bread, lunch and dinner options, and the addition of new partners and offerings. There is a discussion about culinary education and local talent fostering a food renaissance in the Shenandoah Valley. Meredith explains their philosophy on employee retention, work-life balance, and the importance of family values in their business. Special events like Valentine's tea service, Supper Club dinners, and partnerships with local businesses are highlighted. The conversation wraps up with upcoming events for Valentine's Day in Shenandoah County, like horseback riding at Fort Valley Ranch and a Valentine's Wine Adventure hosted by Sought After Spaces. Learn more about Flour & Water on their website: https://www.flourandwaterco.com/ and follow them on Facebook. Find more events in Shenandoah County here: https://visitshenandoahcounty.com/events/ 

In this must-listen episode of The Mind Gut Conversation, I sit down with regenerative organic farming icon, Joel Salatin, to expose the hidden flaws of industrial agriculture and its impact on our health and the environment. We dive into how soil and gut microbes are deeply connected, why today's food system is failing us and how his innovative, regenerative farming approach offers a simple solution. We discuss many topics & questions related to health, but the ones which stand out are: ·     How industrial farming is making us sick – and what we can do about it ·     The shocking nutritional differences between different farming methods ·     How gut health and soil health are more connected than you think ·     What does “organic” really mean?   Salatin runs Polyface Farm, a pioneering regenerative organic farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, and is the author of 16 books on sustainable food systems. He's been a vocal advocate for food freedom, chemical-free farming, and self-sufficient homesteading, deeply challenging the status quo of modern agriculture. If you care about what's on your plate, your microbiome and the future of food, this episode is for you. Tune in & let us know what you think! To learn more, visit www.emeranmayer.com

In this must-listen episode of The Mind Gut Conversation, I sit down with regenerative organic farming icon, Joel Salatin, to expose the hidden flaws of industrial agriculture and its impact on our health and the environment. We dive into how soil and gut microbes are deeply connected, why today's food system is failing us and how his innovative, regenerative farming approach offers a simple solution. We discuss many topics & questions related to health, but the ones which stand out are: ·     How industrial farming is making us sick – and what we can do about it ·     The shocking nutritional differences between different farming methods ·     How gut health and soil health are more connected than you think ·     What does “organic” really mean?   Salatin runs Polyface Farm, a pioneering regenerative organic farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, and is the author of 16 books on sustainable food systems. He's been a vocal advocate for food freedom, chemical-free farming, and self-sufficient homesteading, deeply challenging the status quo of modern agriculture. If you care about what's on your plate, your microbiome and the future of food, this episode is for you. Tune in & let us know what you think! To learn more, visit www.emeranmayer.com

A member of a prominent Shenandoah Valley preservation group sues them over plans to take over a Valley rail line… After an election board member's failed attempt to interfere with vote certification in Waynesboro, the state board of elections wants him out… We investigate the meteoric rise, and spectacular fall, of a local solar business….

In this episode of The Valley Business Today with Top of Virginia Regional Chamber, host Janet Michael is joined by cohost Andy Gail to talk with Community Leadership Program participants during their NonProfit & Media Day session held at Handley Regional Library. Throughout the episode, Janet and her co-host Andy Gail interview various members of the CLP class and discuss their roles, experiences, and motivations for participating in the program. The conversation begins with Janet and Andy introducing themselves and the event, which is being recorded with a live studio audience. They highlight the efforts and participation of the audience in the leadership class. Then, they move on to interview different CLP class participants, starting with Mike Majher, Town Manager for Stephens City, who discusses his involvement in the program and its benefits from a government perspective. Next, they talk to Joan Cestaro, a small healthcare business owner, who describes how the program helps her give back to the community. Janet & Andy continue by speaking with multiple other members, including educators Alison Post (Frederick County Public Schools) and Jennifer Buckley (Winchester City Public Schools,) CNB banker Charles Lowery, City National Bank personal banker Joanna Arriaga, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative's Karen Jones, and Valley Health representative Erin Dickerson. Each shares their insights and the ways CLP has impacted them, emphasizing the value of community connections, professional growth, and understanding different sectors within the region. Andy highlights the diverse backgrounds of the participants and the program's ability to foster deeper community engagement. The episode concludes with a note on the planned afternoon activities, which include a visit to the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley for a nonprofit speed networking event, emphasizing the continuous learning and networking opportunities offered by the CLP class.  

In this episode of Expanded Perspectives, the hosts kick off the new year with personal updates, including Cam's family bouncing back from illness and the rare sight of winter snowfall in Texas. A wave of nostalgia follows as they reminisce about childhood favorites like Jolt cola and giant Pixie Stix. After the casual banter, the episode takes a mysterious turn. The hosts delve into eerie encounters, beginning with the enigmatic Tree People of the Shenandoah Valley. This historically rich region, stretching 140 miles through northern Virginia, is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghenies. Once the edge of the American frontier and later a pivotal Civil War battleground, the Shenandoah Valley's past echoes through its preserved landmarks, unique architecture, and vibrant communities. The intrigue doesn't stop there. The episode also uncovers chilling stories, including a Not Deer sighting in Chicago, a Skinwalker encounter in Arizona, a possible botched alien abduction, a haunted house built on protected faerie land, and the unsettling discovery of a green metal door standing alone in the middle of the woods. Was it merely an abandoned structure, or could it have been a portal to another dimension? All of this and more on this installment of Expanded Perspectives! Sponsors: AG1: Try AG1 for yourself this new year – it's the perfect time to start a new healthy habit. And that's why we've partnered with AG1 for so long! AG1 offers new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You'll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2, AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. So make sure to check out DrinkAG1.com/expanded to get this offer!  Acorns: You don't need to be rich. Acorns lets you invest with the spare money you've got right now. You can start with $5 or even just your spare change. Head to acorns.com/expanded or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today! Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep this year. Go to trymiracle.com/expanded to try Miracle Made sheets today! And whether you're buying them for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, if you order today, you can save over 40%. AND if you use our promo EXPANDED at checkout you'll get a FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE an extra 20%! Want to Share Your Story? Email: expandedperspectives@yahoo.com Hotline: 888-393-2783 Want More Expanded Perspectives? If you want more Expanded Perspectives and help out the show, then join our Patreon. Just click this link or download the Patreon App and search Expanded Perspectives Elite Do you want to give the gift of Expanded Perspectives Elite? Just click this link or go to patreon.com/expandedperspectiveselite/gift

LA Wildfire Help Links: https://wck.org/news/first-alert-ca-fires-jan25 https://supportlafd.kindful.com/?campaign=1040812 https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/wildfire-relief.html Stories by Brandon Faircloth & Matt Dymerski: Matt Dymerski: www.Patreon.com/MattDymerski www.MattDymerski.com Brandon Faircloth: https://www.reddit.com/r/Verastahl/comments/9ndww5/welcome_to_the_new_verastahl_information_hub/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Verastahl/comments/8pnvcx/verastahl_story_database/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC73PScmymsggAJ26f_ZPmvQ?view_as=subscriber https://verastahl.com/ https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Brandon+Faircloth&ref=is_s https://www.reddit.com/r/Verastahl/

B.J. Hessler is the founder and lead instructor at DC Dirt Camp, an off-road riding school in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley.  Here she tells us how motorcycling in general, and setting up this operation in particular, have been central to her personal journey, and how her school has much to offer motorcyclists at all levels – including those who ride exclusively on pavement. Send your questions to us via email: podcast@bmwmoa.org. The Ride Inside with Mark Barnes is brought to you by the BMW MOA Foundation and is on the web at BMWOwnersNews.com.

In this episode, host Janet Michael welcomes Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley's to talk about the vision and goals for the organization in 2025. Janet explains the importance of the United Way's annual campaign and the various ways people can contribute, from large companies to small businesses and individuals. They share that the new campaign will be year-long rather than concentrated in just three or four months, ensuring broader participation and support. Andy elaborates on United Way's focus on fostering partnerships and collaborations among nonprofits for their impact grants. Their goal is to create more significant, coordinated efforts in the community to maximize the benefits and efficient use of donor dollars. They talk about the importance of vetting nonprofits, understanding their use of funds, and ensuring there is no overlap in services. Upcoming events are highlighted, including the Chamber Mega Mixer at Winchester Brew Works with catering by Bonnie Blue, and a charity screening of 'Singing in the Rain' at Alamo Drafthouse. They stress the importance of community involvement and how anyone can get started by attending these events or serving on Impact Grant panels. These panels, consisting of community members, play a crucial role in deciding the allocation of grants, ensuring transparency and effective use of funds. Janet shares personal anecdotes about the fulfilling experience of serving on these panels and encourages others to get involved. They wrap up with details on how to reach United Way via their website: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/ email: info@unitedwaynsv.org, phone: 540-536-1610, and social media: https://www.facebook.com/UWNSV for more information and to get involved in their initiatives.

For our final podcast of the year, we offer a conversation between Coracle Executive Director, Bill Haley, and Coracle's two community ministers, Scott Buresh and Ken Wettig. They discuss the ways they have seen God at work in and through Coracle this year as well as the things they are excited to lean into with God in the coming year. Thank you for journeying with us this year on the podcast—we look forward to being back with new weekly conversations, reflections, and encounters, in the New Year!Explore More Advent Resourcesinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the show

After first dipping his toes in the wine industry in the Shenandoah Valley of western Virginia, Matt Crutchfield's passion for wine truly blossomed in Charleston, South Carolina. Working in wine bars and retail shops allowed him to dive deep into the seemingly endless rabbit hole of wine knowledge. Initially, he planned to work a single harvest in Sonoma County to gain firsthand experience in winemaking before returning to hospitality in Charleston. But after four harvests in Sonoma and another in New Zealand, it became clear that winemaking had completely captivated him. Instead of heading back to Charleston, Matt fully embraced the craft. Now the Assistant Winemaker at Ryme Cellars, he has been encouraged by owners Ryan and Megan to create some of his own wines. Inspired by Ryme's skin-fermented styles, Matt has produced two chenin blancs—one fermented on the skins and one without—showcasing his unique approach to the varietal. Enjoy our conversation with Matt and be sure to check out his wines! [Ep348] https://www.mattcrutchfieldwines.com/ @mattcrutchfieldwines  

IWP Ep66 Rose and Greg Nemet - Kareen Wine. Today we're hearing from Greg and Rose Nemet from Kareen wines.  They've been making wine professionally since 2016 working mostly with Lodi and Clarksburg fruit and more recently from their estate vineyard in the Shenandoah Valley.  We talk about how their Armenian heritage has inspired their winemaking, working in Lodi and some new varieties for their estate vineyard. You can find their wines at Kareenwine.com, follow them at kareenwine on instagram. Follow the podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/indiewinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email indiewinepodcast@gmail.com with questions, comments or feedback. Please rate or subscribe or if you are able consider making a donation to help me continue telling wine stories and keep the podcast ad free. - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.patreon.com/IndieWinePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/indie-wine-podcast/id1673557547⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/06FsKGiM9mYhhCHEFDOwjb⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/indiewinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/matt-wood4/support

In this episode of the Valley Today, Janet shares more of the recent conversation with Andrea Cosans, the executive director at Winchester CCAP. The pair explored the types of donations that are most needed at local food pantries. Andrea emphasized that while traditionally only non-perishable items were accepted, these days, many food pantries have the capacity to store perishable items like dairy products, meats, and fresh produce, thanks to grants and improved refrigeration capabilities. Andrea mentioned that there is always a high demand for dairy items such as butter and eggs, which are rarely donated, especially in the winter. She also highlighted the challenges with obtaining produce and meat regularly. Although the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank supplies some staple items, there are periods when essential items like meat and cereal might be unavailable. Pantries now need more than just food donations. Items like laundry detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, and personal hygiene products are costly and always in demand. Andrea also noted the necessity of bottled water for clients who may not have access to potable water and to keep volunteers hydrated. Children's snacks, cheese, and even pet food were pointed out as beneficial donations. There's also a strong collaboration between nonprofits in the area, sharing resources and support, which is crucial for operational efficiency. Andrea explained that outdated or unusable clothing should be donated to hospice services for reclamation to avoid wastage. Andrea provided details about how to help and where to drop off donations at CCAP, including their website and hours of operation. Financial donations are also welcome to allow the pantry to purchase needed items directly. In the second segment, listeners were encouraged to support food pantries by donating or volunteering. A rundown of several food pantries in the Shenandoah Valley area was given, with information on their locations, operation hours, and specific needs, emphasizing that local food pantries require continuous community support, especially during the holiday season. This is by no means a complete list. You can access more resources on the United Way NSV website by clicking here. You can download their Community Resource Directory by clicking here. Please check their websites or social media to confirm their hours and any restrictions they may have as things may have changed since this show aired. Winchester Rescue Mission is located at 435 North Cameron Street, and they serve meals every day of the week, every week of the year at their Cafe on Cameron. Lunch is served every day from 11:30am until 12:30pm. Dinner is served from 5:30pm until 6:30pm. You're also welcome to take a to-go meal. Those are available at noon and at 6pm each day. Their food pantry is open Monday through Friday from 10am until 11am. Their food distribution is open to anyone in the community needing food for themselves and their families. The community meals are open to the Winchester community. If you want more information about Winchester Rescue Mission, head over to their website at winrescue. org. There they have a wish list, of items that they always need for donations. I'm sure they're always looking for volunteers as well. And you can follow them on Facebook. Braddock Street United Methodist Church offers a hot meal every Monday night at 6pm. They are located at 115 Wolfe Street in downtown Winchester. Highland Food Pantry is located at 446 Highland Avenue, Winchester. They are in the lower level of the Highland Memorial Presbyterian Church. They are open on Tuesdays from 9am until 11am and from 6pm until 7:30pm. Follow them on Facebook for updates. Stephens City United Methodist Church, located at 5291 Main Street, Stephens City has a drive-thru pantry on Tuesdays from 11am until 2pm in their parking lot. It is open to residents of Frederick County, Winchester, and Front Royal. You can receive food every other week, and some of that food includes frozen meats, chilled dairy products, fresh produce, pet food, and cleaning and hygiene items, in addition to canned and boxed goods. Victory Church Food Bank and the Olive Branch Food Pantry at 2870 Middle Road also provides a drive-thru service. They are open on Wednesdays from 9:30am until noon. Hayfield Assembly of God on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month offers a food pantry from 9am until 11am. They are located at 5118 Northwestern Turnpike in Gore. Welltown United Methodist Church at 1444 Welltown Road in Clearbrook offers a food pantry on Thursdays from 5:30pm until 7pm. Emmanuel United Methodist Church at 2732 Martinsburg Pike in Stephenson every Monday from 4:30pm until 5:30pm. They offer hot meals and a food pantry.  Laurel Ridge Community College operates a food pantry for its students. It is open Monday through Friday from 8am until 7pm. You can head to the TRIO office which is in room 606 of Cornerstone Hall. Do a little self-service shopping or you can fill out an online order form, and select your pickup date and time. You can also find a list of other food pantries on their website: https://laurelridge.edu/foodpantry/  FISH of Clarke County is located at 36 East Main Street in Berryville. They are open on Tuesdays from 8am until 10am and on Wednesdays from 8am until 11am. Follow them on Facebook for updates. Go to the back door of the building to access their food pantry. The Christ Episcopal Church in Millwood, located at 843 Bishop Meade Road operates its food pantry on the first Friday of the month from 1pm until 3pm. They also have a special first Saturday of the month from 9am until 11am for seniors and clients with special needs. Bread of Life at Woodstock Presbyterian Church is located at 156 South Muhlenberg Street in Woodstock. They are open on the third Tuesday and the third Thursday from 1pm to 4pm for their food pantry. The Compassion Cupboard at 533 Burgess Street in Strasburg is open on the third Tuesday of the month from 9am until Noon, and from 1pm until 3pm. Loaves and Fishes Pantry at Manor Memorial UMC is open on the third Thursday of the month from 1pm until 5pm. They are located at 9320 North Congress Street in New Market. Loaves and Fishes in Front Royal is located at 613 North Royal Avenue. They're open on Tuesdays from 1pm until 3pm, and on Thursdays and Fridays from 9am until 1pm. Front Royal Salvation Army has a food pantry that operates Monday through Friday from 9am until Noon and from 1:30pm until 3:30pm. They are closed on Wednesdays. They're located at 357 Cloud Street. As a side note, their kettle kickoff is on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 12:30 at WalMart in Riverton Commons. You can register to ring and give them a little bit of volunteer support during the holidays.  In Page County, Page One has two locations. We just talked to Page One last month on the show. Page One - Luray is located at 35 North Bank Street. They are open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:30am until 11am. They also offer delivery for homebound residents. Their second location, Page One - Shenandoah is Located at 600 Comer Lane. They are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30am until 2:30pm. They do not offer delivery but can bring your food to the curb if needed. 

When you think about short-term rental markets, climate matters—but so do the numbers. In this episode, we dive into the extremes of seasonal and nonseasonal STR markets with a real-life story from Houston to New Hampshire. Why does it matter if you're in a seasonal hotspot or a steady year-round market? And what are the risks of choosing the wrong one? We'll break down top STR markets using tools like AirDNA and the BiggerPockets Market Finder to analyze seasonality, average daily rate (ADR), and occupancy. From the high-revenue potential of football-season towns to the year-round demand in Flagstaff and Shenandoah Valley, find out which markets offer the best balance of returns, affordability, and consistency. If you're considering an STR investment, you'll want to hear how metrics like rent-to-price ratio and affordability percentage can help you pivot, even if regulations shift or demand changes. Whether you're dreaming of beachside bungalows or cozy cabins, this episode will give you the insights you need to pick a market that aligns with your financial goals. Keep reading the article here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/best-5-nonseasonal-short-term-rental-markets Subscribe to the BiggerPockets Channel for the best real estate investing education online! Become a member of the BiggerPockets community of real estate investors - https://www.biggerpockets.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Dues and Andrew Stotz are diving deeper into the improvement model that John is building with his team. In this episode, learn the three ways to think about an improvement frame for your big challenge.  TRANSCRIPT 0:00:02.6 Andrew Stotz: My name is Andrew Stotz and I'll be your host as we dive deeper into the teachings of Dr. W. Edwards Deming. Today I'm continuing my discussion with John Dues, who is part of the new generation of educators striving to apply Dr. Deming's principles to unleash student joy in learning. And the topic for today is Frame the Challenge. John, take it away.   0:00:23.6 John Dues: Hey Andrew, it's good to be back. Yeah, we're gonna talk about Framing the Challenge today. We kicked off a new series a couple of episodes ago. I introduced this improvement model that we can use to set ambitious goals backed with this sound methodology. Make this disclaimer again, we're sort of building the plane while we are flying it. So this improvement model is new at United Schools where I work. And so again, we're actually letting listeners sort of see it as it's being built and first put to use. And so I think just starting out with a quick recap of the model is a good place to start. So what is this improvement model that we've been looking at? I'll pull up my screen so we can share a visual of the model for those that are watching. Right. Can you see that all right?   0:01:21.2 AS: Yep.   0:01:21.3 JD: Great. Give me one second. All right. So we have this improvement model. Basically the core idea of the model is it gives us the scientific way of thinking. And remember, we talked about we're working to close this gap between current conditions in our organizations and future aspirations. In order to close this gap, we're walking through the four steps on the model. So first, we set the challenge of direction. That's really where we focused our time last episode. The second step is to grasp the current condition. The third step is to establish the next target condition. And then the fourth step is to experiment to overcome obstacles. And that's where we spend most of our time in this four-step process. And then the other thing we've talked about is we do it with this team. The people working in the system, that's one part of the system, one part of the team.   0:02:19.8 JD: And we've talked about this in our case. This can be students, it can be teachers, whoever the frontline people are in your organization. Then there's those with the authority to work on the system, to make changes to the design or the architecture of the system. That could be a teacher in a classroom, or we've said the principal of a school, or maybe the superintendent of a system of schools. And then one of the innovations that we've made to this improvement model is that that third group or that third person on the team is someone that has Profound Knowledge, someone that's using Deming's principles to guide the work. So that's the basic model that we looked at in the first episode and...   0:03:11.8 AS: And I would just highlight... By the way, can you put it on slideshow?   0:03:15.3 JD: Sure.   0:03:15.4 AS: And I've been reading Mike Rother's book, rereading his book on Toyota Kata and stuff. And so this has really got me back to it. But what you're doing is applying this and helping us understand it as you're putting it into action at your school, right?   0:03:35.0 JD: Yeah, we've had an improvement model. And I think... Yeah, so like it says down in the right hand corner, that this model, it's based on Mike Rother's work, the Toyota Kata work. I think one thing that was missing from our model previously was like, how do you set this challenge or direction? How do you do that in an ambitious but reasonable way? And I think Mike Rother's sort of model speaks to this. So that's why I like his four-step model. I also like the four steps because it's pretty simple. It's not 15 steps. It's not 20 steps. It's four steps. Now there are some steps that you have to learn and stuff like that. There are different pieces to each of the steps, but I like that it's four steps. It's sort of easy to remember. It's memorable. And I think the innovation that we've done so far is who is the team that's working through this? And I think to frame it as the people working in the system, the people working on the system, and then someone with Profound Knowledge, I think that's an innovation, from what I've read about Mike Rother's work.   0:04:39.6 AS: Yep.   0:04:40.4 JD: Yeah. And so to continue the recap from last time, I think in the last episode, so we introduced the model two episodes ago. And then last episode, what we said we were gonna do is start walking through each of the steps, episode by episode, and do a deeper dive into each of the steps. And we did that with step one last time. So we did Set the Challenge last time. And just as a refresher, this is that longer range goal that would differentiate us from other schools in our case, if we achieve it. But remember, we also said it seems nearly impossible at the outset. This is something that's off in the horizon. It's probably gonna take at least six months, probably more like two or three years. And then I gave this example at United where I am. So we're a school system. One of the challenges that we've set is to reduce our chronic absenteeism from 52%. So that's sort of the current condition. And we wanna bring that down to 5%. And there's this huge gap between those things. Obviously, we talked about an order of magnitude, and we don't quite know how to get there right now.   0:05:48.7 AS: Yeah, I think that's the point is we don't know how to get there right now.   0:05:57.6 JD: Yeah. Yeah. And I think... And so what I originally had planned to do is to go on to step two. And I think we're gonna do that next. But I wanted to pause because last time we briefly touched on this idea of Framing the Challenge as an improvement goal. And so with this episode, what I wanna do first before we go on to step two is talk about how to sort of think about that framing. And I sort of have studied a little bit of performance management from healthcare specifically. And there's really these three phases of performance management. When you're setting a goal, there's sort of performance measurement that has a research orientation. There's performance measurement that has an accountability orientation. And there's performance management that has an improvement orientation. And I think it's really important to understand the difference between those three types of measurement because I think conflation of those three things can derail and often derail improvement efforts. And in fact, as I was doing some research for this episode, I read this quote in one of the journal articles that I was sort of reviewing. It said, "the problem with measurement is that it can be a loaded gun, dangerous if misused, and at least threatening if pointed in the wrong direction."   [laughter]   0:07:19.6 JD: Right. So, when I read that I was like, this is important enough to take a pause and do a little bit deeper dive into that, you know, the differences between the three that we sort of got into on a surface level last time.   0:07:33.5 AS: One of the things that I like to say these days when I talk to people about measurement is measurement... If the subject being measured, let's say a table, I'm gonna measure the length of a table versus measuring the performance of an individual as an example. If the subject being measured knows, is aware that they're being measured, you're gonna have a problem.   0:08:02.0 JD: Yeah, I think that's very well put. And...   0:08:07.5 AS: The table doesn't care.   0:08:09.3 JD: The table doesn't care, but people always do. No doubt. No doubt. So I thought it'd be... I put together a table for those that are watching 'cause there is a lot of nuance to this and we'll kind of walk through this step by step, sort of the differences between goals or measurement for research, measurement for accountability, and then measurement for improvement. So I think just... I came up with these dimensions in some of the research I was doing. So, what's the purpose of each of those? What questions are you trying to answer? What are some example questions that are answered with that type of measurement? What's actually getting measured? How often is it getting measured? And then why does quality improvement or quality measurement matter in that particular area? So let's start with the purpose first. So when we're thinking about measurement for research, what we're really trying to do is contribute to some knowledge base, right?   0:09:01.8 JD: You know, I think the classic example is, what a university professor is often doing in their research. The second type of measurement is measurement for accountability. And really there, what we talked about last time is the purpose is to determine the application of rewards and sanctions or rewards and punishments. And that's really juxtaposed against measurement for improvement, which is... The purpose there is to learn our way to a system that produces a higher level of performance, right? And so let's look at measurement for research. We talked about the purpose being contributing to the knowledge base. If the questions that we're asking are about constructs or relationships between constructs or theories, then research is probably the direction we wanna go. An example question would be what's the relationship between two conceptual variables and what gets measured is... Could be numerous latent variables, but how often is this measurement happening? Typically once or twice during a study. And what we're trying to do is detect a relationship where they exist, right?   0:10:16.8 AS: So it could be... Like in a school, it could be a relationship between being late, the late rate and the absenteeism rate.   0:10:29.9 JD: Yeah. I mean, you could do research into why is it that student... Why are students chronically absent? You could do research into what's the best way scientifically to teach reading, right? And so you're gonna sort of come up with some answers there, at least answers that are sort of coming out of a lab, right? And a lot of times measurement for research or research goal or research study, that can be helpful to sort of initially point you in the right direction. You might do a literature review when you're trying to come up with solutions in your particular context.   0:11:10.3 AS: And it's important to remember that surveys properly done are a great form of research. So not only going back and seeing what's already been... What is the knowledge base on attendance, but also trying to do some research into what do students or teachers or parents think are root causes as an example.   0:11:33.3 JD: Sure.   0:11:34.8 AS: Okay. Great.   0:11:35.5 JD: Gives you a starting point, right? And so you certainly need measurement for research for sure. In that second bucket, we have measurement for accountability. And this is probably the thing that teachers and educators are most used to because there's accountability systems in all 50 states, right? And remember, we said the purpose is to determine who should be rewarded and who should be sanctioned. That's the purpose of an accountability measure. It's gonna answer questions about merit or status or accomplishment. It could be of someone like an individual teacher in a classroom, or perhaps about a school, for example. It's gonna answer questions like who's performing well and who isn't, who should be considered knowledgeable enough to do whatever, something X, right? But when we're talking about measurements, they're typically end-of-the-line outcomes, usually once per year after the fact. I've given state tests as an example multiple times. That's a very typical accountability measure end-of-the-line outcome. And why it's important to have quality measurement for accountability is that we can assign consequences based on measurement that lacks sufficient technical rigor so.   0:12:56.0 AS: Consequences as in rewards and sanctions?   0:13:00.4 JD: Could be... Yeah, consequences as in rewards and sanctions. And so there's technical guides that go with accountability systems. So how is the state, for example, calculating all of these different measures that show up on a school report card, test scores, value-added progress scores, chronic absenteeism rates? All those things have to be well-defined. Data has to be collected systematically. And it has to be done the same across the entire system so that rewards and sanctions are meted out equally amongst all the districts and schools and classrooms. But those two things are very different than measurement for improvement. And that's where I focus most of my time and where these talks really, really focus. And again, we said the purpose is to learn our way to a system that produces a higher level of performance.   0:13:48.4 JD: So we're talking about questions about specific changes as potential improvements to our systems. So some questions might be, are the changes I'm making leading to improvement? How are my changes affecting other parts of my system? And really, we're talking about outcomes and processes relevant to the object of change in terms of what gets measured. And that's happening... Those measurements for outcomes or processes are happening frequently as the practice or as the process occurs, right? Because we want feedback on a much more frequent basis than once or twice per study or at the end of the school year. That's one of the advantages here of measurement for improvement. And why does quality measurement matter in this particular area? Well, we wanna learn which changes are an improvement without wasting resources or will. Those are both very finite things in organizations, schools are... That's the same in schools.   0:14:55.2 AS: Will as in energy towards this objective, is that what you mean by will?   0:15:01.7 JD: Yeah. So two finite things, resources, which could be time or money. But will, I literally mean the will of the people, the will of the frontline people that you have to get on board with whatever this change is gonna be. And if you're moving between this thing and that, you sort of use up that will for good...   0:15:23.4 AS: It seems you have depleted the will of the people.   0:15:27.4 JD: And that happens all the time, especially where you're in a service business like education, the frontline people are being burned out all the time, teachers, in hospitals it's nurses and other folks in other industries. So that's the basic overview. And then I think one of the key things here is that there are some real measurement limitations when it comes to accountability measures and research measures or goals, when we're thinking about organizational improvement.   0:16:08.5 JD: I think the key limitation for accountability goals is that... The key limitation for improvement is that it does not illuminate why the outcomes occur or what should be done to change them when we're thinking about accountability system. For research, the key limitation for improvement is that it is impractical to administer it and not designed to inform changes in practice. So those are some real limitations. But what often happens, I think... And I should say again, like we said at the outset, that the three types of measurement are complementary. Like we need each of these three different types of performance measurement. But I think what happens is that problems arise when they're not used for their intended purpose. Remember, we said research, we wanna contribute to the knowledge base, that's the purpose. For accountability, application of award and sanctions. And for improvement, there we're actually learning our way to a better system, right? So, I thought it would be useful here. I may put you through like a little quiz here to apply the purposes of measurement to the right scenario. So, I have three situations here. They're unrelated to education. So, there's no pressure there. So, I'll read the three situations and then you're gonna tell me how would you... Which of the measurement purposes would you use?   0:17:47.7 AS: So, research, accountability, or improvement.   0:17:49.2 JD: Research, accountability, or improvement so.   0:17:53.6 AS: And I'm doing this on behalf of our listeners and readers so... And listeners and viewers.   0:17:55.7 JD: Everyone yeah.   0:17:56.7 AS: So, pay attention ladies and gentlemen, 'cause my answers may be wrong, but yours may be right. Okay.   0:18:01.7 JD: This is the check for understanding. This is a true education exercise here. And we're gonna be talking about avocados, right? So, there's no prior knowledge needed. So, I'll read through the first three situations, give you a chance to think, and I can repeat them if necessary, and you kind of think between those three. So, the first situation is rank the grocery stores in Columbus, Ohio, according to the quality of their avocados. So, would you use measurement for accountability, measurement for research, measurement for improvement? That's the first situation. The second situation is understand the relationship between weather, soil, acidity, and the eventual quality of an avocado grown in California. And the third situation is improve the quality of avocados on sale across all stores in Columbus. So, let's go back to that first situation. So, if you're gonna rank the grocery stores in Columbus according to the quality of their avocados, what type of measurement orientation makes the most sense?   0:19:15.5 AS: So I'm thinking accountability.   0:19:20.0 JD: Yeah, that's exactly right. Accountability, it's basically a grading system for avocados. You think how meat gets graded, it's grade A meat. That's really an accountability system.   0:19:33.6 AS: Okay, so listeners, viewers, did you get that one right? These are tough. John's a tough teacher. All right. Next one.   0:19:39.0 JD: You're one for one, and you have A grade schools, right? So you have A grade avocados, and that's an accountability measure. The second one was you're understanding the relationship between weather, soil, acidity, and the eventual quality of an avocado grown in California.   0:20:00.2 AS: Ladies and gentlemen, is this research, accountability, and improvement? Well, we've already eliminated accountability, so it's got to be either research or improvement. And if I get this one right, then I'm gonna get the third one right naturally. And I would say that sounds to me more like research.   0:20:15.8 JD: Yeah, that's exactly right. Research, right? So 'cause you're experimenting to see how the manipulation of variables, in this case weather, like the pH level of soil, acidity, impact the quality of an avocado. So you're basically a researcher trying to figure out what's the best combination of those things that gives you the best avocado. But this experimenting is gonna take probably years as you adjust those variables, right? And the last...   0:20:46.5 AS: Yeah, avocados don't grow so fast.   0:20:50.2 JD: They don't grow so fast, yeah. And then the third situation was you wanna improve the quality of avocados on sale across all stores in Columbus. There's only one left, so it's got to be...   0:21:03.5 AS: Well you used the word improve in it, so I think it's improvement orientation, huh?   0:21:06.8 JD: There you go. That's a giveaway. So aim is the quality of the avocado. So the basic theory of change is something like maybe improving the transport time from the field to the store. So there you can see that it's not like one is bad in terms of a measurement orientation and one is good. It's just... Is it being applied to the appropriate situation?   0:21:35.6 JD: There are certainly appropriate situations for accountability, appropriate situations for research and appropriate situations for improvement. So basically to sort of wrap this up, I mean, I thought it was really important because last time we talked, when you set the challenge and then it's gonna be something like a vision far out into the future, maybe two or three years, it's gonna be really important that that challenge is framed correctly because you're gonna be working on this thing for a long time. So with the model, we now have a way to bridge the gap between conditions and future aspirations. There's always gonna be a gap. We now have this model that gives us the scientific way of thinking and working to close the gap. And then we've said it's the responsibility of upper management to set this overall challenge as a key priority.   0:22:37.5 JD: And then we've said it's really important to understand the difference between these three types of performance measurement because conflation of the three can derail our improvement efforts. So the key takeaway here is you wanna frame this challenge or this far out direction that we're heading in as an organization as an improvement goal. And that's gonna orient the work. It's gonna orient the types of questions that you're asking. It's gonna orient the people, and the outcomes and processes that they're tracking. It's gonna orient your measurement system. You're gonna have to come up with frequent process and outcome measures that let you know how you're doing along the way. And the purpose of all of this is to learn our way to a better system. That's the purpose of measurement for improvement.   0:23:34.1 AS: That's great. A great summary. I wanna ask a question. Recently I've been teaching my corporate strategy course and I've been talking about the teachings of Richard Rumelt, who wrote the book called Good Strategy Bad Strategy, which is such a great book on strategy. But one of the things he complains about when he says his bad strategy is just setting an aspirational goal. Because as we learned from Dr. Deming, by what method? Like now, so there's... You've got to have a vision. You've got to have an aspiration of where you're going. But what he really focuses on... I think we're gonna talk about this in next sections. He really focuses on, have we really identified what the problem is?   0:24:21.7 AS: Like, what is the constraint? What is the thing that is holding us back from getting there? And what ends up happening is, when you clearly articulate the problem, what happens is it focuses... It becomes hard. Because to solve that problem, you need new resources. You need to get rid of old stuff. You've got to make substantial changes. And so it's much more comfortable for people to set strategies that are based upon wonderful visions. But never really deal with the problem. And then the workers in the companies, an employee in a company just looks up and goes, what did management just do for that long weekend? They did a weekend getaway to do their corporate strategy. And then they just came up with a fluffy vision of whatever with no help for us of how do we deal with the hardest problem is that we can't beat our competitor with the technology that we have. And we're never gonna get to that goal if we can't solve that problem.   0:25:28.7 JD: Yeah. And that's really the essence of the steps two, three, and four. I mean, the very next thing that we're gonna talk about is one, what's the current situation on the ground? Now we have this aspiration, but what's actually happening? For whatever data we have, whatever time period, 10 years, five years, whatever it is, we're gonna look at that data in a way that gives us a very firm understanding. And then remember, there's that crack in the model. That's the threshold of knowledge. So right up front, we're acknowledging.   0:25:58.0 AS: We don't know how to get over this. We don't know what's blocking us. We don't know...   0:26:03.3 JD: Yeah. We may have some ideas, but... Some initial ideas, but we do not know how to solve this chronic absenteeism problem. And that's where the experimentation comes in.   0:26:11.4 AS: So let me ask you one last question before we go. This is completely selfish, but also for the listeners and viewers out there, that is, I always ask my students this question in corporate strategy, should corporate strategy be kind of secretive in the sense that you're trying to build a competitive advantage and therefore some of the best battle attacks in war were kept secret. Stonewall Jackson was famous in his Shenandoah Valley campaign for not letting anybody know what he was gonna do the next morning. And then... Or should it be public? Like your number of 50 to five is pretty scary. And I'm just curious, what are your thoughts on that?   0:27:00.4 JD: Well, if you're in war, I think you should keep it secret. But pretty much anywhere else, I think public. Now that'd be my opinion. Now I'm in a school setting. I acknowledge that. But I've also seen...   0:27:11.4 AS: This is my quiz for you, by the way.   0:27:14.7 JD: What's that?   0:27:15.6 AS: This is my quiz for you.   0:27:15.7 JD: Your quiz for me. Yeah. Well, I have seen... And I've had the same thought. I think it was one of the founders of Toyota, or maybe someone that was an early CEO basically said, well, you give away your playbook basically. And he's like, well, just because someone has my playbook does not mean they can do it. And so education is a different orientation. There's not corporate secrets. And we're very open, we often share our practices. But I've often been on the...   0:27:45.2 AS: If you could get from 50 to five, you would want the world to know.   0:27:48.8 JD: I would want the world to know. I want everybody to do it. But I've been on the other side of this where I've gone to school and I've reached out to people get a manual or an artifact or something that they have that they do really well at their school system. And I look at it and I'm like, I don't know what to do with this. Right? So it's something altogether different to have the thing and then be able to do it. In our case, it's gonna benefit kids. We're gonna share it as far and wide as possible. So yeah, I think the setting matters. If I'm... The Union Army fighting Stonewall Jackson, then I'm gonna keep my secrets secret, my battle plan secret. But for most of the things I'm gonna share.   0:28:32.9 AS: Nathaniel Banks taking on Jackson. It was a rough series of battles for him. So I'll close out with my thoughts on this, which is that, yeah, I think ultimately once you've decided on what's your goal, where you wanna be, then I think you've got to make it public. And the reason why is because you need your employees to deliver that. It can't be... Everybody needs to be bought in. But even more importantly from a marketing and a relationship with customers, suppliers and others, they need to feel that vision. And they need to feel that mission. I think another great book is Start With Why. And that is why are we doing this? And I just read a great book on corporate strategy that is called Corporate Strategy Demystified.   0:29:25.5 AS: But it's just great because it was written in 2006. So he's talking about the battle between Apple and Compaq and Dell and all of these and IBM. And he doesn't know the outcome that Apple ends up being this multi-trillion dollar business. And basically his last sentence that I read in the last chapter is, it's over for Apple. They just can't compete in this space. And what he missed... This is what I'm teaching tonight, what he missed was the trusting connection that the customers had to Apple, to Apple's mission. Somehow Steve Jobs was able to create that mission and get it out to the world. And in the valley of death, when they were going through the worst time and it didn't seem like they were ever going to be able to do anything, it was customers that stuck with them because they believed in the mission of what they communicated. And it is that total, let's say intangible, that is very hard to measure and very hard to understand. But this is what I got when I was reading that book from 3:00 AM 'till 4:00 AM This morning, John.   0:30:44.4 JD: Whoever that author is was a small miss, a small miss.   0:30:48.8 AS: Yeah. And he's a brilliant guy. And so it's also a great point that just stick with your vision 'cause people's commitment to Apple and all that is so so strong. So being public about what you're doing and sharing it is critical because the last thing, as you said, even if somebody else has your playbook, I like to tell people that if somebody was working at General Motors and they had all the list of all the parts for Cadillac or whatever it is that they're building, and then they went to Toyota and said, build this, just because you have a list of parts and you have that operating system doesn't mean that they can build it because the product was actually designed for the operating system. And it's that entanglement in the actual process of production that makes that corporate strategy almost impossible to duplicate, even if you have the playbook.   0:31:41.8 JD: Yep. Yeah, that's it right there, I think. That's it.   0:31:46.5 AS: So fantastic. Well, on behalf of everyone at The Deming Institute, I wanna thank you again for this discussion. And for listeners, remember to go to deming.org to continue your journey. You can find John's book, Win-Win: W. Edwards Deming, The System of Profound Knowledge and the Science of Improving Schools on amazon.com. This is your host, Andrew Stotz. And I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes from Dr. Deming. "People are entitled to joy in work" and in school.  

Deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains that make up Virginia's Shenandoah Valley a young couple was found murdered... the main question for investigators - besides who committed the grisly deed - was... was this a hate crime? It would take more than a decade to get an answer and still, questions remain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Jeremiah Byron on the Bigfoot Society podcast as Bill from Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, recounts his spine-chilling encounters with Bigfoot. During hikes on the mountain, Bill experiences strange noises, rock-throwing entities, and mysterious discoveries like dog vertebrae arranged on a plate. Despite his military background, these events fill him with inexplicable fear and doubt. Bill also reflects on how these encounters have profoundly impacted him. Don't miss this gripping account that challenges our understanding of the unknown.

From Suffolk to Virginia: Stephen Schuurman's Cider Journey In Episode 428 of Cider Chat, we meet Stephen Schuurman, owner and cider maker at Winchester Ciderworks in Winchester, Virginia. Originally from Suffolk, England, Stephen has brought his deep love of English cider to the northern portion of the Shenandoah Valley. What started as a passion project has grown into a successful business, blending English cider-making techniques with Virginia-grown apples. Ciders tasted in this Episode At Winchester Ciderworks, the focus is on producing hard ciders that are not overly sweet nor dry ciders. Expect a wide range of cider offerings and the option for a tasting flight at the Ciderhouse or go directly to the flagship cider, Malice. Malice is a classic, off-dry cider with a clean, crisp finish and just the right amount of residual sugar. Made with a blend of Virginia apples. At 6.5% ABV, it's sessionable and easy-drinking — perfect for enjoying with friends or pairing with a meal. 522, a cider infused with black currant. Named after the road where Winchester Ciderworks was originally located, this cider blends the tartness of black currants with the brightness of local Virginia apples. At 5.9% ABV Support Cider Chat and Keep the Stories Flowing If you're a fan of learning about the stories behind great cider makers like Stephen Schuurman, consider supporting Cider Chat. Your donations help keep the podcast on the air, allowing us to continue sharing stories from the world of cider. To help us continue to bring you these amazing episodes, hit the donate button at CiderChat.com. Contact for Winchester Ciderworks and Ciderhouse Website: https://winchesterciderworks.com/ Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours

OUR FAMILY MUSIC ACADEMY: Affordable and effective online weekly music lessons designed for families.https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.comUse coupon code: PODCASTVMA for 10% off each month-Homeschool Course: The First Three YearsLaying a foundation of joy, confidence, and a love of learning from the start.https://www.nowthatwereafamily.com/homeschoolFor 15% off the course, use discount code: YTHOMESCHOOL-Joel Salatin, 67, calls himself a Christian libertarian environmentalist capitalist lunatic farmer. Others call him the most famous farmer in the world, the high priest of the pasture, and the most eclectic thinker from Virginia since Thomas Jefferson. He lives on Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley. With a room full of debate trophies from high school and college days, 15 published books, and a thriving multi-generational family farm, he draws on a lifetime of food, farming and fantasy to entertain and inspire audiences around the world. He's as comfortable moving cows in a pasture as addressing CEOs in a Wall Street business conference. You can follow Joel Salatin through the resources below: - Website: https://www.thelunaticfarmer.com- Polyface Farm's website: https://polyfacefarms.com - Books: https://polyfaceshop.com/BOOKS-&-DVDS-c43252175- Blog: https://www.thelunaticfarmer.com/blog