Podcasts about West Virginia

 It may be only the second Big 12 game of the season, but Tuesday night's matchup between West Virginia and the Cincinnati Bearcats inside Hope Coliseum carries real weight. With games against Kansas and Houston looming, the Mountaineers need a win over the Bearcats to stabilize the early conference slate and build momentum. In this episode, the “Guys” take a deep dive into what went wrong at Iowa State, preview the matchup with Cincinnati, and explain where adjustments must be made. The crew also discusses the latest football transfer portal movement and what it means for WVU moving forward. Listener questions and comments wrap up the show on Textual Healing.

Torrey prattles about the end of the year vs the beginning, starving children, and West Virginia

Shepherdstown, West Virginia, may be small, but its history runs deep — and dark. Founded in 1762 along the Potomac River, it's one of the oldest towns in the state. On the surface, it's full of charm — brick sidewalks, historic homes, and the quiet hum of university life. But behind the beauty lies centuries of turmoil. Just three miles away, the Battle of Antietam became one of the bloodiest days in American history. When it ended, the wounded poured in by the thousands, turning every home, church, and business into a field hospital. Locals say the town was never the same — it seems that the ground itself remembers. Ghostly figures are seen near the riverbanks, whispers echo from the churchyards, and even Shepherd University has its share of unexplained encounters. Janet Hughes, owner of Shepherdstown Mystery Walks, knows these stories better than anyone. Through her tours, she reveals the layers of tragedy, resilience, and lingering energy that make Shepherdstown one of the most haunted towns in West Virginia. Is it history holding on—or something that refuses to let go? Get more information about her walking tours, at shepherdstownmysterywalks.com. #TheGraveTalks #HauntedHistory #Shepherdstown #WestVirginiaHaunts #CivilWarGhosts #Antietam #ParanormalPodcast #HauntedAmerica #TrueGhostStories #HistoricHauntings Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:

Shepherdstown, West Virginia, may be small, but its history runs deep — and dark. Founded in 1762 along the Potomac River, it's one of the oldest towns in the state. On the surface, it's full of charm — brick sidewalks, historic homes, and the quiet hum of university life. But behind the beauty lies centuries of turmoil. Just three miles away, the Battle of Antietam became one of the bloodiest days in American history. When it ended, the wounded poured in by the thousands, turning every home, church, and business into a field hospital. Locals say the town was never the same — it seems that the ground itself remembers. Ghostly figures are seen near the riverbanks, whispers echo from the churchyards, and even Shepherd University has its share of unexplained encounters. Janet Hughes, owner of Shepherdstown Mystery Walks, knows these stories better than anyone. Through her tours, she reveals the layers of tragedy, resilience, and lingering energy that make Shepherdstown one of the most haunted towns in West Virginia. Is it history holding on—or something that refuses to let go? This is Part Two of our conversation. Get more information about her walking tours, at shepherdstownmysterywalks.com. #TheGraveTalks #HauntedHistory #Shepherdstown #WestVirginiaHaunts #CivilWarGhosts #Antietam #ParanormalPodcast #HauntedAmerica #TrueGhostStories #HistoricHauntings Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:

I never thought I'd be glued to my screen, watching the Supreme Court become the hottest ticket in town, but here we are on this crisp January morning in 2026, with President Donald Trump's legal battles dominating the headlines. Just days ago, on December 23, 2025, the justices handed down a key ruling in Trump v. Illinois, partially siding with the administration in a tense showdown over federalizing the National Guard in Illinois. The majority allowed the move, with Justice Kavanaugh writing a concurrence, while Justices Alito and Thomas dissented, arguing it overstepped state authority. According to the Brennan Center's Supreme Court Shadow Docket Tracker, this decision came after a First Circuit ruling let it stand, underscoring Trump's push to assert federal control amid rising urban unrest in Chicago.But that's just the appetizer. The real drama kicks off next week. On January 13, the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., will hear oral arguments in two massive challenges to state bans on transgender students—like those in West Virginia and Idaho—playing on sports teams matching their gender identity. KVUE News reports these cases hinge on the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause and Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in schools. Challengers say the bans unfairly sideline kids like Becky Pepper-Jackson in West Virginia, who's been fighting since 2021 to compete in girls' track.Then, on January 21, all eyes turn to Trump v. Cook, a blockbuster testing presidential firing powers. President Trump tried to oust Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook in August 2025, citing alleged mortgage fraud from before her 2023 appointment to the Fed's Board in Washington. A D.C. district judge blocked it, and now the Supreme Court has deferred any stay until arguments, per the official docket for case 25A312. The Constitution Center notes this stems from the Federal Reserve Act, which only allows removal "for cause," not at-will. If Trump wins, it could reshape independent agencies like the Fed, which steers the U.S. economy with trillions in influence—think interest rates affecting your mortgage or job market.These aren't isolated fights. The Court's fall term already tackled Trump v. Slaughter on firing a Federal Trade Commissioner and Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump over tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Lawfare's Trump Administration Litigation Tracker logs dozens more, from immigration deportations under the Alien Enemies Act in Trump v. J.G.G. to earlier agency head removals. With decisions due by June, the stakes couldn't be higher—executive power, civil rights, economic stability all colliding.As I sip my coffee, scrolling updates from the National Constitution Center, I can't help but wonder: will this term redefine Trump's second presidency? The justices, from Chief Justice John Roberts to the newest voices, hold the gavel.Thanks for tuning in, listeners. Come back next week for more, and this has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Chris Williams reacts to No. 3 Iowa State beating West Virginia in its Big 12 opener, courtesy of Karl Auto Group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've told the story of labor conflicts from Harlan, Kentucky to Blair Mountain, West Virginia. This week, we tell a story that's not set in the Kentucky or West Virginia coalfields, but in Western North Carolina. It's the story of the 1906 “Tally War,” a violent clash between Italian railroad laborers and company officials of contractors for the South and Western Railroad, which was building their railroad through the North Carolina mountains.  Between Spruce Pine and Marion, North Carolina, a violent confrontation erupted over a wage dispute and the harsh conditions in the railroad construction camps that ended in an international incident between the United States and Italy.It's another one of the Stories of Appalachia.Subscribe to the Stories podcast on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss a single one of our Stories of Appalachia. Thanks for listening.

* On the 150th Anniversary of the Proclamation, the Surprising Truth: With yesterday (January 1st, 2023) being the 160th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, we are going back to a broadcast classic where Bob Enyart and guest Jamie Schofield analyze the meaning and actual intent of that sad document. For this was no abolitionist policy (as a contemporaneous report in the Rocky Mountain News makes clear), but an example of moral compromise that ended in failure. Today's Resource: The Plot | Second Edition!The Bible Gets Easier to Understand: Apparent contradictions plague many Bible students. The Plot demonstrates how hundreds of such contradictions disappear when the reader applies the big picture of the Bible to its details. Tunnel vision focuses so narrowly on a problem that the solution often lies just out of view. As the pastor of Denver Bible Church, Bob Enyart teaches Christians how to use the whole counsel of God to understand the plot of the Bible and solve biblical mysteries. (Missionaries in Costa Rica effectively use the Spanish translation, La Trama.) Available as either book or PDF download. The Plot: 2nd Edition Just before his passing, Bob finished the second edition of his manuscript, The Plot. While sadly he didn't live long enough to see the work published, He did get it out just in time. His second edition includes ten years worth of updates, revisions, additional sections and updated graphics. Now, a year after his passing, it has been made available to the public! Get your copy now... The Proclamation was actually comprised of two announcements, not just one.  The first half – the preliminary proclamation – set the policy and gave a deadline of 100 days.  It was addressed not to the common citizens of the nation or to the Union military, but rather to the states in rebellion at that time.  What was Lincoln's declared policy on slavery at that time?  He made that very clear in a letter to Horace Greeley on Aug. 22, 1862, just days before the issuance of the preliminary proclamation: If there be those who would not save the Union, unless they could at the same time save slavery, I do not agree with them. If there be those who would not save the Union unless they could at the same time destroy slavery, I do not agree with them. My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or to destroy slavery. If I could save the Union without freeing any slave I would do it, and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone I would also do that. What I do about slavery and the colored race, I do because I believe it helps to save the Union; and what I forbear, I forbear because I do not believe it would help to save the Union. . . . I have here stated my purpose according to my view of official duty; and I intend no modification of my oft-expressed personal wish that all men everywhere could be free. Lincoln's goal was not the abolition of slavery but rather the preservation of the Union, and if that meant keeping slaves in bondage everywhere, he would support and practice exactly that.  And this non-abolitionist stance is reflected in the text of the Emancipation Proclamation.The Preliminary Proclamation, September, 1862 In short, the stated intent and purpose of this policy was to offer the Confederate states the opportunity to keep their slaves if they would choose to stop rebelling within a 100-day deadline.  Essentially, it said that if your state ceases its rebellion against the union, you may keep your slaves. I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America, and Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy thereof, do hereby proclaim and declare that hereafter, as heretofore, the war will be prosecuted for the object of practically restoring the constitutional relation between the United States... That on the first day of January in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State, or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; Any state still in rebellion against the Union on Jan. 1 would be subject to the Proclamation, which would declare any current slaves in those areas to be free.  The stated goal was not to free any slaves, but rather to preserve the Union.  Was it a success?  Before hearing the answer, Bob predicted that such a policy would bear no fruit, and he was right.  In fact, not a single state took Lincoln up on his offer.  By its own standard, the Proclamation was an abject failure!  In fact, all the proclamation did in that regard was to infuriate the Confederate states more than ever, deepening their resolve to reject the Union. Perhaps even worse, the preliminary proclamation also explicitly ordered slaves to be returned to their slave owners in specific circumstances, thus actually ordering the enforcement of keeping such men in bondage: Sec.10. And be it further enacted, That no slave escaping into any State, Territory, or the District of Columbia, from any other State, shall be delivered up, or in any way impeded or hindered of his liberty, except for crime, or some offence against the laws, unless the person claiming said fugitive shall first make oath that the person to whom the labor or service of such fugitive is alleged to be due is his lawful owner, and has not borne arms against the United States in the present rebellion, nor in any way given aid and comfort thereto; In other words, if a slave escaped to an area controlled by the Union, all a Southern slave owner had to do was show up, give an oath (no evidence required) that he was the lawful owner of that slave, and swear that he had never taken up arms against the Union, and then “here's your slave back.” The Emancipation Proclamation, January 1, 1863 This document was the culmination of the policy already given 100 days earlier.  Not a single Confederate state had taken Lincoln's offer to cease rebellion and keep their slaves.  Therefore, this document declared (largely symbolically) the slaves in those non-Union-controlled areas to be free.  But, at the same time, and as one should expect in such a compromised and non-abolitionist policy, it also explicitly listed all of the areas in the U.S. where slaves would be kept in bondage.  Thus, this policy actually authorized the continuing wicked enslavement of innocent men, women and children, for example in many counties in Louisiana, especially around New Orleans, as well as in the newly-forming West Virginia. Many abolitionists of the day decried the Emancipation Proclamation, rightly pointing out its moral compromise.  Lincoln's own secretary of state, William Seward, commented that "We show our sympathy with slavery by emancipating slaves where we cannot reach them and holding them in bondage where we can set them free."  Unlike Lincoln, Seward knew the atrocities of slavery firsthand, having been raised by a slave-owning family.  "I early came to the conclusion that something was wrong... and [that] determined me to be an abolitionist." On the other hand, in their coverage of the Proclamation, the now-defunct Rocky Mountain News here in Colorado celebrated on their front page the fact that this policy was not abolitionist, and mocked abolitionists who disagreed with it, praising Lincoln for going against the “radical” abolitionists.  The newspaper wrote: “The last mail... brought scores of Eastern and Western papers with similar recommendations.  The voice of the press is almost unanimous in its approval.  That is a pretty correct index of popular opinion, and we may therefore set down that almost the entire loyal States endorse the action of the President.  It must be expected that the ultra Abolitionists will kick against it, as too conservative [not going far enough] for their radical views.  Let them squirm!  ‘Honest Abe' has shown that he will be no tool of theirs.” How were slaves freed and slavery abolished, then? It's important to note that the Emancipation Proclamation didn't outlaw slavery anywhere.  It declared current slaves in those areas to be free, in areas where the Union had no control.  It essentially “freed” them in word only, and was largely a symbolic gesture.  As the Union military moved through the Confederate states in rebellion, they did free slaves they encountered.  In truth, they could have done this with or without the Proclamation.  The Proclamation was simply used as an excuse to do it, but they would have been right to do it, regardless.  Lincoln gave orders to the Union Army to free those slaves, apart from the Proclamation, which wasn't addressed to the Union Army, but to the Confederate States themselves.  He could have ordered the Union Army to do this without such a proclamation.  And even if Lincoln hadn't issued that order, it would have still been right for Union forces moving through the South to free those slaves, anyway.  If you are a military unit and have taken over an area from the enemy, and you find men who have been kidnapped and brutalized by the people there, the right thing to do would be to free those victims.  The Proclamation didn't free anyone, although it did serve as a political excuse to do so. What of the abolition of slavery, then?  That was accomplished later, in some areas at the state level, and in the rest of the nation through federal action.  Unlike in the Emancipation Proclamation, in all of these cases it was a principled, no-compromise, abolitionist policy that required the complete abolition of slavery in each state.  For example, West Virginia (which had ironically seceded from Virginia while the latter was seceding from the Union) wasn't allowed to join the Union as a new state unless their constitution abolished slavery without exception.  In Maryland, Arkansas and Louisiana in 1864, they abolished slavery at the state level as their citizens ratified new state constitutions.  In Missouri in January of 1865, that governor abolished slavery via executive order.  In all other Southern states, slavery was ultimately abolished through the ratification of the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, in December of 1865. In all of these cases, it was a no-compromise policy that we would describe today as “pro-personhood.”  Slavery was ultimately abolished despite the pro-slavery policy of the Emancipation Proclamation, not because of it.

* On the 150th Anniversary of the Proclamation, the Surprising Truth: With yesterday (January 1st, 2023) being the 160th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, we are going back to a broadcast classic where Bob Enyart and guest Jamie Schofield analyze the meaning and actual intent of that sad document. For this was no abolitionist policy (as a contemporaneous report in the Rocky Mountain News makes clear), but an example of moral compromise that ended in failure. Today's Resource: The Plot | Second Edition!The Bible Gets Easier to Understand: Apparent contradictions plague many Bible students. The Plot demonstrates how hundreds of such contradictions disappear when the reader applies the big picture of the Bible to its details. Tunnel vision focuses so narrowly on a problem that the solution often lies just out of view. As the pastor of Denver Bible Church, Bob Enyart teaches Christians how to use the whole counsel of God to understand the plot of the Bible and solve biblical mysteries. (Missionaries in Costa Rica effectively use the Spanish translation, La Trama.) Available as either book or PDF download. The Plot: 2nd Edition Just before his passing, Bob finished the second edition of his manuscript, The Plot. While sadly he didn't live long enough to see the work published, He did get it out just in time. His second edition includes ten years worth of updates, revisions, additional sections and updated graphics. Now, a year after his passing, it has been made available to the public! Get your copy now... The Proclamation was actually comprised of two announcements, not just one.  The first half – the preliminary proclamation – set the policy and gave a deadline of 100 days.  It was addressed not to the common citizens of the nation or to the Union military, but rather to the states in rebellion at that time.  What was Lincoln's declared policy on slavery at that time?  He made that very clear in a letter to Horace Greeley on Aug. 22, 1862, just days before the issuance of the preliminary proclamation: If there be those who would not save the Union, unless they could at the same time save slavery, I do not agree with them. If there be those who would not save the Union unless they could at the same time destroy slavery, I do not agree with them. My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or to destroy slavery. If I could save the Union without freeing any slave I would do it, and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone I would also do that. What I do about slavery and the colored race, I do because I believe it helps to save the Union; and what I forbear, I forbear because I do not believe it would help to save the Union. . . . I have here stated my purpose according to my view of official duty; and I intend no modification of my oft-expressed personal wish that all men everywhere could be free. Lincoln's goal was not the abolition of slavery but rather the preservation of the Union, and if that meant keeping slaves in bondage everywhere, he would support and practice exactly that.  And this non-abolitionist stance is reflected in the text of the Emancipation Proclamation.The Preliminary Proclamation, September, 1862 In short, the stated intent and purpose of this policy was to offer the Confederate states the opportunity to keep their slaves if they would choose to stop rebelling within a 100-day deadline.  Essentially, it said that if your state ceases its rebellion against the union, you may keep your slaves. I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America, and Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy thereof, do hereby proclaim and declare that hereafter, as heretofore, the war will be prosecuted for the object of practically restoring the constitutional relation between the United States... That on the first day of January in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State, or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; Any state still in rebellion against the Union on Jan. 1 would be subject to the Proclamation, which would declare any current slaves in those areas to be free.  The stated goal was not to free any slaves, but rather to preserve the Union.  Was it a success?  Before hearing the answer, Bob predicted that such a policy would bear no fruit, and he was right.  In fact, not a single state took Lincoln up on his offer.  By its own standard, the Proclamation was an abject failure!  In fact, all the proclamation did in that regard was to infuriate the Confederate states more than ever, deepening their resolve to reject the Union. Perhaps even worse, the preliminary proclamation also explicitly ordered slaves to be returned to their slave owners in specific circumstances, thus actually ordering the enforcement of keeping such men in bondage: Sec.10. And be it further enacted, That no slave escaping into any State, Territory, or the District of Columbia, from any other State, shall be delivered up, or in any way impeded or hindered of his liberty, except for crime, or some offence against the laws, unless the person claiming said fugitive shall first make oath that the person to whom the labor or service of such fugitive is alleged to be due is his lawful owner, and has not borne arms against the United States in the present rebellion, nor in any way given aid and comfort thereto; In other words, if a slave escaped to an area controlled by the Union, all a Southern slave owner had to do was show up, give an oath (no evidence required) that he was the lawful owner of that slave, and swear that he had never taken up arms against the Union, and then “here's your slave back.” The Emancipation Proclamation, January 1, 1863 This document was the culmination of the policy already given 100 days earlier.  Not a single Confederate state had taken Lincoln's offer to cease rebellion and keep their slaves.  Therefore, this document declared (largely symbolically) the slaves in those non-Union-controlled areas to be free.  But, at the same time, and as one should expect in such a compromised and non-abolitionist policy, it also explicitly listed all of the areas in the U.S. where slaves would be kept in bondage.  Thus, this policy actually authorized the continuing wicked enslavement of innocent men, women and children, for example in many counties in Louisiana, especially around New Orleans, as well as in the newly-forming West Virginia. Many abolitionists of the day decried the Emancipation Proclamation, rightly pointing out its moral compromise.  Lincoln's own secretary of state, William Seward, commented that "We show our sympathy with slavery by emancipating slaves where we cannot reach them and holding them in bondage where we can set them free."  Unlike Lincoln, Seward knew the atrocities of slavery firsthand, having been raised by a slave-owning family.  "I early came to the conclusion that something was wrong... and [that] determined me to be an abolitionist." On the other hand, in their coverage of the Proclamation, the now-defunct Rocky Mountain News here in Colorado celebrated on their front page the fact that this policy was not abolitionist, and mocked abolitionists who disagreed with it, praising Lincoln for going against the “radical” abolitionists.  The newspaper wrote: “The last mail... brought scores of Eastern and Western papers with similar recommendations.  The voice of the press is almost unanimous in its approval.  That is a pretty correct index of popular opinion, and we may therefore set down that almost the entire loyal States endorse the action of the President.  It must be expected that the ultra Abolitionists will kick against it, as too conservative [not going far enough] for their radical views.  Let them squirm!  ‘Honest Abe' has shown that he will be no tool of theirs.” How were slaves freed and slavery abolished, then? It's important to note that the Emancipation Proclamation didn't outlaw slavery anywhere.  It declared current slaves in those areas to be free, in areas where the Union had no control.  It essentially “freed” them in word only, and was largely a symbolic gesture.  As the Union military moved through the Confederate states in rebellion, they did free slaves they encountered.  In truth, they could have done this with or without the Proclamation.  The Proclamation was simply used as an excuse to do it, but they would have been right to do it, regardless.  Lincoln gave orders to the Union Army to free those slaves, apart from the Proclamation, which wasn't addressed to the Union Army, but to the Confederate States themselves.  He could have ordered the Union Army to do this without such a proclamation.  And even if Lincoln hadn't issued that order, it would have still been right for Union forces moving through the South to free those slaves, anyway.  If you are a military unit and have taken over an area from the enemy, and you find men who have been kidnapped and brutalized by the people there, the right thing to do would be to free those victims.  The Proclamation didn't free anyone, although it did serve as a political excuse to do so. What of the abolition of slavery, then?  That was accomplished later, in some areas at the state level, and in the rest of the nation through federal action.  Unlike in the Emancipation Proclamation, in all of these cases it was a principled, no-compromise, abolitionist policy that required the complete abolition of slavery in each state.  For example, West Virginia (which had ironically seceded from Virginia while the latter was seceding from the Union) wasn't allowed to join the Union as a new state unless their constitution abolished slavery without exception.  In Maryland, Arkansas and Louisiana in 1864, they abolished slavery at the state level as their citizens ratified new state constitutions.  In Missouri in January of 1865, that governor abolished slavery via executive order.  In all other Southern states, slavery was ultimately abolished through the ratification of the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, in December of 1865. In all of these cases, it was a no-compromise policy that we would describe today as “pro-personhood.”  Slavery was ultimately abolished despite the pro-slavery policy of the Emancipation Proclamation, not because of it.

Send us a textFirst post-game following the West Virginia game!

Nathan Griffin [like his younger brother] is a lifelong houndsman, bear hunter, and commercial turkey farmer in Pendleton County, West Virginia. On this 2nd part of our in-the-field, ride along with Appalachian bear hunting brothers we open with a riveting reading from the memoir of an early-1800's backwoodsman about a bear skin umbrella & hunting with a knife. As we drive the snowy mountain roads in search of a fresh track, Nathan describes various aspects of being a modern houndsman: from dog-work to being a good example, selective harvest and seasons based around wildlife management. We hear about sleeping in the woods, finding den trees, and a wildcat encounter in a rock hole. Of course a major part of any hunt is the food it provides and thus we talk of bear roasts, pies, meat handling and uses for rendered bear fat. And that's just about when we find a track! The dog box is thrown open and the howling dogs are cut loose into the cold mountains. While they lose the track in melted snow, we end up bushwhacking a thousand feet down a ridge to a bear in a tree where Nathan's hounds have joined another hunting party's and Jacob [from Part I] successfully tags out on a beautiful he-bear. From the mountains to the farm workshop, we come together around the Griffin family hearing from both brothers, a wife & their father about butchering, cooking and this truly American folkway. Reading from Fourty-Four Years of the Life of a Hunter by Meshach Browning. Support Our Numinous Nature on Patreon.Follow Our Numinous Nature & my naturalist illustrations on InstagramCheck out my shop of shirts, prints, and books featuring my artContact: herbaceoushuman@gmail.com

An explosion shook West Virginia on this day in 2006. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on Coast To Coast Hoops Greg recaps Thursday's college basketball results, talks to Riley Frain of Mid Major Madness about the game's top mid-majors, the landscape of the Atlantic 10, NEC, CAA, & MAAC, & look at Friday's games, & Greg picks & analyzes every Friday game!Link To Greg's Spreadsheet of handicapped lines: https://vsin.com/college-basketball/greg-petersons-daily-college-basketball-lines/Greg's TikTok With Pickmas Pick Videos: https://www.tiktok.com/@gregpetersonsports?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcPodcast Highlights 1:46-Recap of Thursday's Results17:36-Interview with Riley Frain37:01-Start of picks New Mexico St vs Florida International39:47-Picks & analysis for Mount St. Mary's vs Merrimack42:36-Picks & analysis for Sacred Heart vs Niagara44:44-Picks & analysis for Fairfield vs Canisius46:57-Picks & analysis for Sam Houston vs Western Kentucky49:23-Picks & analysis for Jacksonville St vs Delaware52:01-Picks & analysis for Marist vs St. Peter's54:41-Picks & analysis for USC vs Michigan57:07-Picks & analysis for Siena vs Iona59:34-Picks & analysis for Kennesaw St vs Liberty1:02:13-Picks & analysis for Quinnipiac vs Manhattan1:04:32-Picks & analysis for Robert Morris vs Detroit1:06:42-Picks & analysis for Louisiana Tech vs Middle Tennessee1:09:31-Picks & analysis for Oregon vs Maryland1:11:59-Picks & analysis for UTEP vs Missouri St1:14:31-Picks & analysis for Ohio St vs Rutgers1:16:47-Picks & analysis for Louisville vs Stanford1:19:58-Picks & analysis for Michigan St vs Nebraska1:22:29-Picks & analysis for Seattle vs Gonzaga1:25:10-Picks & analysis for West Virginia vs Iowa St1:27:32-Picks & analysis for Loyola Marymount vs Washington St1:30:03-Picks & analysis for Pepperdine vs Santa Clara1:32:10-Picks & analysis for Oregon St vs Pacific1:34:27-Picks & analysis for Portland vs St. Mary's1:36:57-Picks & analysis for San Diego vs San Francisco1:39:21-Picks & analysis for Notre Dame vs California1:42:03-Start of extra games Wagner vs Chicago St1:44:47-Picks & analysis for Central Connecticut vs Long Island1:47:14-Picks & analysis for Le Moyne vs St. Francis PA1:49:27-Picks & analysis for New Haven vs Stonehill1:51:45-Picks & analysis for Lamar vs McNeese1:54:06-Picks & analysis for Fairleigh Dickinson vs Mercyhurst1:57:14-Picks & analysis for Eastern Kentucky vs Queens NC1:59:34-Picks & analysis for Bellarmine vs West Georgia2:02:08-Picks & analysis for North Florida vs Austin Peay Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Campfire Stories: Feral People in the Deep Woods of West VirginiaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.

On Thursday's Daily Clone, Jake Brend explains the damage Texas Tech's Orange Bowl loss did for the future of the Big 12, Jimmy Rogers finalizes his offensive staff and Brend previews Iowa State's Big 12 opener against West Virginia. Presented by CycloneFanaticShop.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We present thoughts and discussion of the top trends, influences, and movements that defined our West Virginia craft beer market and industry over the past year. The post Craft Beer Industry Trends Review appeared first on BrilliantStream.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, January 1, 2025. #1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Apple Grove wastewater plant nears completion Construction is wrapping up on a long-anticipated wastewater treatment plant in Apple Grove, part of a larger effort to expand sewer service and support economic growth in Mason County. The new system, tied to attracting major investments and improving infrastructure, is expected to go into service early next year, bringing reliable public utility service to local businesses, homes, schools, and future developments. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/apple-grove-wastewater-treatment-plant-complete-system-to-be-ready-next-year/article_4c235e92-c96f-44dc-8d2f-55ad4de4bab1.html #2 – From WV EXECUTIVE - 'Talent transplant': WVU president's vision for growthWest Virginia University's new president, Michael T. Benson, is being spotlighted for his leadership approach — part of what one profile calls a talent transplant for the Mountain State. Benson, who began his tenure in Morgantown in 2025, emphasizes community engagement, workforce alignment, and accessibility as core parts of his vision for WVU's role in statewide opportunity and economic development. Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/talent-transplant-michael-t-benson/ #3 – From JOBCASE - Manufacturing remains vital to West Virginia's economyManufacturing continues to be a key employer and economic engine across West Virginia, from heavy industry and automotive suppliers to advanced materials and skilled trades. Longstanding demand for manufacturing jobs — particularly in technical fields — offers opportunities for workers at various experience levels. Read more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.    

During the Great Depression, there lived in Fayette County a mountain man named Iley Tate who ruled the hill country between Haydentown to the West Virginia line like a feudal lord. Tate, a father of 20, had amassed considerable wealth as a livestock trader, and, because of his influence and steel-cold demeanor, he had a number of local lawmen and politicians in his hip pocket. Like many powerful men in similiar positions, Iley Tate came to think of himself as untouchable; but this was an illusion that came to a shattering end in the fall of 1932.This is the story of Iley and the Tate family-- a family notorious for feuding, fighting, fornicating... and committing the occasional murder.

The dress rehearsals are over for the Mountaineer basketball team. West Virginia opens its 14th season of Big 12 Conference play Friday night on the road against No. 3 Iowa State. The undefeated Cyclones represent one of three nationally ranked opponents WVU will face in its first four league games, making the opening stretch of conference play as demanding as any in the country. In this episode, the “Guys” dig deep into what makes Iowa State so difficult to play, examine the early contours of the Big 12 race, and share thoughts on the return of veteran offensive line coach Rick Trickett. Listener questions and comments wrap up the show on Textual Healing.

Five Faves: 2005 Edition Executive producer Adam Harris walks us through some of the most memorable sets and performances from his first season with Mountain Stage, twenty short years ago. Tune in to hear The Del McCoury Band, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Lizz Wright, Guy Clark, Nanci Griffith, Odetta and more! https://bit.ly/4sptuc8

On Christmas Eve in 1945, a house fire broke out in Fayetteville, West Virginia. By morning, the Sodder family was told the unthinkable: five of their children were presumed dead in the flames. But almost immediately, the story began to fall apart. No remains were ever found. The fire burned too quickly. Witnesses reported strange sightings. Evidence was ignored, dismissed, or quietly disappeared. And for decades, the Sodder family refused to accept the official explanation. In this episode, we explore one of America's most haunting and controversial cold cases — the disappearance of the Sodder children Join the Membership on Youtube! Click HERE Business Inquires | averyannross@gmail.com Want this episode EARLY & AD FREE? Join the PATREON Make sure you are following along for all the latest! INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK TIKTOK 

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, December 31, 2025. #1 – From WV METRO NEWS - Toyota West Virginia celebrates 2025 accomplishmentsToyota West Virginia looks back at a successful year in 2025, reaching key production goals, strengthening supplier partnerships, and contributing positively to the local economy. Company leaders highlighted the plant's role in advancing automotive manufacturing excellence and supporting workforce opportunities across the Mountain State. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/12/20/toyota-west-virginia-celebrates-2025-accomplishments/ #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - WV's automotive industry demonstrates continued growth and opportunityWest Virginia's automotive sector continues to be a vital part of the state's industrial landscape, supplying components, advanced materials, and skilled labor to major manufacturers. With a strong logistics network and competitive business environment, the industry supports jobs and economic diversification, contributing to long-term growth across regions. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/automotive/ #3 – From WV LIVING - 'A Story Set at Home' celebrates WV connection and belongingColorful picture books and a set of cards featuring West Virginia authors make great gifts for the young reader in your life. This feature in WV Living celebrates the ties West Virginians feel to their communities and landscapes. The narrative reflects on what "home" means in the Mountain State — from family traditions and local stories to the natural beauty that shapes everyday life. Read more: https://wvliving.com/a-story-set-at-home/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

You're listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for December 30, 2025. 0:30 We kick off today’s show with a major legal showdown as the U.S. Department of Justice takes aim at the state of Virginia over immigration and college tuition policy. We break down how Virginia law allows students without legal immigration status to qualify for discounted tuition if they attended Virginia schools, even as law-abiding U.S. citizens from states like West Virginia or North Carolina are forced to pay more. These benefits directly violate federal law, which prohibits states from offering post-secondary education benefits to illegal immigrants unless those same benefits are provided to all U.S. citizens on identical terms. It's a test of the Supremacy Clause and federal authority over immigration, and these policies normalize lawlessness one benefit at a time. 10:00 Plus, we cover the Top 3 Things You Need to Know. US Attorney General Pam Bondi said this week that the DOJ has already indicted 98 people with fraud in Minnesota this year. A federal judge has ruled that the Trump Administration does not have the authority to block funding to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. President Trump will become the first non-Israeli to be awarded the Israel Prize. 12:30 Get Prodovite Plus from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 13:00 We dig into the unraveling scandal surrounding fraudulent daycare operations in Minnesota. As scrutiny intensifies, the focus turns to empty daycare centers—previously exposed by independent reporting— that are now suddenly filled with children, raising serious questions about timing and credibility. 16:00 The American Mamas Teri Netterville and Kimberly Burleson don’t hold back on this one. They take on the question of why it suddenly feels like everyone has a disability—and whether it’s about real need or working the system. While acknowledging legitimate conditions that truly require accommodations, they zero in on what they see as a disturbing trend: elite college students claiming disability status for special treatment, extra time, exemptions, and advantages. This isn’t about compassion anymore—it’s about entitlement. A culture that rewards victimhood, hands out loopholes, and teaches young people that being “broken” is a badge of honor. Comparing today’s mindset to the grit and pride of earlier generations, the Mamas warn that intelligence without ethics is dangerous, and a society that incentivizes weakness shouldn’t be surprised when responsibility, character, and resilience disappear. If you'd like to ask our American Mamas a question, go to our website, AmericanGroundRadio.com/mamas and click on the Ask the Mamas button. 23:00 Protests are breaking out across multiple cities in Iran as the country's economy spirals. The national currency has collapsed to record lows against the U.S. dollar, inflation has surged past 40 percent, and everyday life is becoming increasingly unlivable for ordinary Iranians. 24:30 Plus, we give director and actor Steven Grayhm a call. His film Sheepdog, is set to release nationwide on January 16, centered on the unseen battles of PTSD and the long-term cost of military service. Grayhm spent years traveling the country, listening to veterans, Gold Star families, and mental-health professionals, determined to tell their stories without political spin or Hollywood gloss. The result, he says, is a “love letter” to those who wore the uniform and the families who carried the burden alongside them. 32:00 Get TrimROX from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 32:30 According to newly revealed information, more than $5 billion in HUD rental assistance payments during the final year of the Biden administration were flagged as questionable or improper—an eye-popping figure that immediately raises red flags. According to newly revealed information, more than $5 billion in HUD rental assistance payments during the final year of the Biden administration were flagged as questionable or improper—an eye-popping figure that immediately raises red flags. The most jaw-dropping detail: over 30,000 of those payments allegedly went to people who were already deceased. 35:30 New data shows Bible sales in the United States are booming, with double-digit growth two years in a row, and that's a Bright Spot. The resurgence isn’t limited to Bible sales alone. Church attendance is rising, especially among young people, with Catholic parishes seeing growth even in major cities like New York—places long declared spiritually dead by the secular elite. Add in the historic election of the first American pope, and the signs of a broader faith revival are hard to miss. 39:30 Here’s something that stopped us in our tracks: Charlie Kirk was the most searched name in the world in 2025. Not just in the United States—globally. More than any other news story, more than any other headline, Charlie Kirk topped Google search inquiries worldwide. 41:00 And we finish off today's episode with the most popular New Year's resolutions. Follow us: americangroundradio.com Facebook: facebook.com / AmericanGroundRadio Instagram: instagram.com/americangroundradio See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on MetroNews This Morning: --West Virginia will ring in the New Year with snow flying--Hospital officials in the Mountain State react to a major rural healthcare grant from Washington--Hampshire County authorities make an arrest in a five year old missing persons case--In Sports: the college football playoffs round two are here

Cyclo-cross has never not been a part of the Rodeo story, even if it hasn't been front and center. For a company that doesn't not make cyclo-cross-capable bikes, all these double negatives leave us pondering the sport every time we hear #crossiscoming. This year, Stephen answered the call of cyclo-cross, and so too did Cam Little, a Rodeo rider from West Virginia and Marian University. Now that the season has wrapped up, it was time to podcast about it, even if Logan, our host, is somewhat of a cyclo-cross skeptic. Host: Logan Jones-WilkinsGuests: Stephen Fitzgerald and Cameron Little Editor and Producer: Logan Jones-Wilkins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What role did prayer have in Harriet Tubman's success in the underground railroad? On this episode of the America Pray Now Podcast, Prayer Partner Lise Pampaloni explores this encouraging story of fervent prayer and relentless trust in God.---------America Pray Now publishes a magazine on prayer that is free of charge and can be delivered directly to your home. You can sign up for this magazine on our website at americapraynow.comIn addition to our weekly podcast, we meet in 17 different cities every month to pray in person. Most of our in-person prayer meetings are in Virginia, and we also have meetings in Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, North Carolina and South Carolina. See our website for times and dates at americapraynow.comEnjoy the Podcast? Let us know! Email us at podcast@americapraynow.com

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, December 30, 2025. #1 – From WORLD ATLAS - 8 best West Virginia towns for a winter getaway From cozy mountain towns to scenic riverside communities, these eight West Virginia destinations offer winter charm, outdoor activities, local eats, and small-town hospitality. Whether you're after snowy trails, historic downtowns, or a warm café by the fire, each town has its own reasons to be a winter break favorite. Read more: https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/8-best-west-virginia-towns-for-a-winter-getaway.html #2 – From WV STATE PARKSF - First Day Hikes return to WV State Parks on Jan. 1 West Virginia State Parks invites the public to join First Day Hikes on New Year's Day. These free guided walks take place at parks statewide and offer a great way to kick off 2026 with fresh air, scenic trails, and community spirit — perfect for all ages and abilities. Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/first-day-hikes/ #3 – From WORKFORCE WV - Register for the next statewide virtual job fair on Jan. 7 Workforce WV's statewide virtual job fair series — held the first Wednesday of each month — continues in the new year with the next session scheduled for Wednesday, January 7. These online events let job seekers explore openings, chat with employers, and access career resources from anywhere in West Virginia. Register now: https://workforcewv.org/statewide-virtual-job-fairs/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

The latest local news impacting D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. Today's stories include: The alleged killer of a West Virginia guardswoman is set to appear in court today, the United States announces its first airstrike inside Venezuela, and murders in Prince George's County are poised to decline by nearly a third this year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on MetroNews This Morning: --West Virginia gets a significant grant for rural healthcare from Washington DC--The man charged with shooting two members of the West Virginia National Guard appears in court--A bald eagle struck by a car in Ripley didn't make it--In Sports: Rich Rod adds another piece to his coaching staff in Morgantown 

She grew up in a small town in West Virginia, in a trailer tucked back in a hollow—one of those places where the woods feel close enough to listen. From the time she was little, she'd catch glimpses of things she couldn't explain: a man crossing the yard with features that didn't look right… and something darker that seemed to move through the house whenever a certain visitor showed up. No one else saw it. So she learned to keep it to herself. Years later, tragedy struck in the worst way possible—proof that sometimes the danger you sense isn't imaginary… it's just waiting for its moment. But that wasn't the end of the story.  Some hauntings aren't about footsteps in the dark. Some are about the moments your body knows before your mind do #RealGhostStories #ParanormalPodcast #TrueGhostStory #WestVirginia #AppalachianHaunting #HollerHaunt #DemonicEncounter #DarkEntity #Premonition #FamilyTragedy #HauntedHome #Unexplained #SpiritualAttachment #CreepyEncounters  Love real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:

In this conversation, Stephen Predmore shares his journey into real estate investing, detailing his initial challenges, particularly with eviction issues in Baltimore. He discusses his transition from single-family homes to multifamily investments, emphasizing the importance of education and networking through masterminds. Stephen also explores the potential of out-of-state investments, particularly in markets like West Virginia and the Carolinas, and highlights the significance of creative financing strategies in the current market landscape.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

This week, we bring you a collaborative episode with Panhandle Whitetails Podcast from our 2025 Veteran Hunt Camp in West Virginia!  This year's Veteran Hunter, Robert Reeder had an unfulfilled dream to deer hunt one day, and with the help of many partners we were able to make that dream a reality!  We were also able to surprise him by bringing in his best friend and the guy who nominated him for this hunt, David Schumer.  For this podcasts, our Hunt Hosts Mike Petrosky and Lawson McKee sit down with these guys at the conclusion of an awesome weekend to recap their experiences and tell their story.  We are always honored to be able to give back to those who have served our country, and this year was incredible to say the least!Special thanks to our 2025 Veteran Hunt Sponsors:Title Sponsor: Bill Garvey State Farm (Wellsburg, WV)Hunt Sponsors: Brownlee Lumber & Supply, Puskarich Accounting Gear Sponsors: Hoot Camo, Fieldcraft LLCDonors: Robert Jones, Eric Kesler, Isaac Knight, Rytac Hunt Systems & many silent partnersFall Obsession Podcast is sponsored by:Hoot Camo Company (https://hootcamo.com/)Bear River Archery (https://www.bearriverarchery.com/)Trophy Edits (https://trophyedits.com/?ref=fallobsession)The Outdoor Call Radio App (https://www.theoutdoorcallradio.com/)

An 18-year-old man accused of killing his mother and wounding his father is in custody after a two-day manhunt that stretched across the Pennsylvania–West Virginia border. Police arrest a naked Florida man on Christmas night after they say he broke into two ultra-luxury homes just steps from a police station and left his clothes behind in one of them. Drew Nelson reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack and Nikki discuss how men feel about shopping, take your calls and texts about the surprising things you found left in cars and homes by previous owners and break down West Virginia driving statistics.

It's an old joke that well-behaved women seldom make history and while that may not be true, Mother Jones put the maxim to the test. Having lost her entire family to a yellow fever epidemic, Jones dedicated her life to helping American laborers get their fair share. A firebrand whose voice still rings through the hills of West Virginia, she left her mark on the state and our nation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWU2bj-_pn8

On this week's episode of Inside West Virginia Politics, our guests join Rick Johnson to discuss the biggest stories of 2025 and what to expect in 2026.

Step into the dense, fog-covered woods of West Virginia as we uncover the terrifying legend of The Grafton Monster, one of America's most chilling and elusive cryptids. In this deep-dive video, we're taking a scientific and lore-heavy look at a creature that has baffled eyewitnesses, investigators, and cryptozoologists for decades. Reportedly first seen in 1964 near Grafton, West Virginia, this hulking, white-skinned humanoid creature has been described as headless, silent, and utterly massive — a creature that walks the line between myth and misunderstood biology. This episode will explore the complete history and lore of the Grafton Monster, diving into eyewitness accounts, regional folklore, and pop culture appearances including its unsettling presence in Fallout 76. But we won't stop there — we'll break down what this creature could biologically be. Could it be a mutated primate species? A misidentified animal under specific environmental conditions? Or even a government experiment gone wrong? Our speculative biology segment will consider how something like the Grafton Monster could exist in nature, drawing from known science on gigantism, cryptid mimicry, and biological camouflage. If you're a fan of cryptid sightings, unexplained mysteries, paranormal legends, or horror-laced speculative science, then this is the video for you. We'll connect the Grafton Monster's origins with other famous creatures in Appalachian folklore like the Mothman, Sheepsquatch, and Flatwoods Monster — showing just how interconnected these tales might be. We'll also explore the geography and history of Grafton, which may have played a role in the development of these cryptid legends. Expect an immersive blend of science, horror, video game lore, and cultural analysis as we dissect the possible explanations for the creature. Whether you believe in cryptids or not, this video will give you something to think about — from neuropsychological explanations for sightings to the sociocultural impact of cryptid legends on small American towns. We'll even touch on the idea of mass hysteria, optical illusions in dense forest terrain, and whether the Grafton Monster could have been a case of mistaken identity — perhaps even a man pushing a cart, as some skeptics have claimed.

Health Hats Danny celebrates 50 – years with his honey & pounds lost. With gratitude for privilege, & best health thru family, media, music, travel, & advocacy. Summary Think of 2025 as Danny’s Sofrito year—familiar and unexpected ingredients simmering together. The base: 50 years married, daily saxophone practice, steady MS management. The aromatics: Cuban jazz immersion, co-founding a Personal Health Data Bank, and celebrating with old friends on Bloom Mountain. The heat: losing 50 pounds, earning $150 as a “professional” musician, and learning from his grandsons. What makes sofrito work is the slow sauté, the patient layering of flavors. Danny’s learning the same with music (leave white space), with health (five out of ten is excellent), and with AI (it changes the work but doesn’t replace Mom’s feedback). Between PCORI Board meetings, podcast production, band rehearsals, and startup strategy sessions, he’s discovered that retirement’s spicy complexity comes from knowing when to drop out, when to join the rhythm section, and when to let the energizing endorphins carry you through disturbing times. The recipe? Nap whenever and keep improvising. Click here to view the printable newsletter with images. More readable than a transcript. Contents Table of Contents Toggle EpisodeProemFrom Mom to AI50 Years of Love and Privilege RoastedRolling in CubaToo Many and Too Few HornsBest GovernanceGame-Changing StartupOnwardBest Health NowEndorphins and GratitudeRelated episodes from Health Hats Please comment and ask questions: at the comment section at the bottom of the show notes on LinkedIn  via email YouTube channel  DM on Instagram, TikTok to @healthhats Substack Patreon Production Team Kayla Nelson: Web and Social Media Coach, Dissemination, Help Desk  Leon van Leeuwen: editing and site management Oscar van Leeuwen: video editing Julia Higgins: Digit marketing therapy Steve Heatherington: Help Desk and podcast production counseling Joey van Leeuwen, Drummer, Composer, and Arranger, provided the music for the intro and outro Claude, Auphonic, Descript, Grammarly, DaVinci, Whisper Transcription Podcast episode on YouTube Inspired by and Grateful to: All of you! Photo Credits for Videos 50th Anniversary images by Patti Harris, Rich Rieger, Jodi Buckingham, Ann Boland, Christine Higgins, and me Swiss cheese image by Rahul Pugazhendi on Unsplash Nourish image by Santiago Lacarta on Unsplash Cuba images by Ann Boland, Richard Fish, Gisselle Perez, and me Zoom images by Michael Chaffin and Steve Heatherington Links and references The Curse of an Aching Heart Music by Al Piantadosi, Lyrics by Henry Fink 1913 played by the Summer Street Stompers https://health-hats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/The-Curse-of-an-Aching-Heart-20251206.mp3  Referenced in episode Dan Fox and Morningside Studios,  the Havana Music School, the Havana Jazz Festival Lechuga Fresca Latin Band and Summer Street Stompers Dixieland Band Research partnerships and participatory governance of AI Personal Health Data Bank https://goodlistening.org Episode Proem I love retirement. I have plenty to do on my own schedule. I can nap almost whenever I want. I‘m no better at saying no. Every day feels rich, although I don't always know what day it is. From Mom to AI My podcast about best health continues to flourish and nourish. Thank you very much. I embrace the tension between creativity and productivity as I test new approaches and media. I published fifteen new episodes in 2025, plus 32 YouTube episodes, and countless social media shorts. What do you think of my new intro and outro? Grandsons Leon and Oscar encouraged me to update them. Leon has been updating my website, as a growing proportion of people access my back catalog. Both Leon and Oscar advise me on direction, content, and strategy, especially using social media. I meet regularly with my virtual, supportive, and challenging podcasting peeps. I enjoy experimenting with AI in production to find and create images and suggest brief descriptions and section headings. My favorite prompt is “Suggest three ironic titles, brief descriptions, and section headings, a tech-savvy teen would appreciate.” I rarely use the suggested responses, but I chuckle and take an unexpected path. AI does not make me more productive; it changes the work a tad. When I first started blogging, I would read draft episodes to my mom. Her feedback was more often helpful than AI's. I miss my mom. 50 Years of Love and Privilege Roasted The highlights of the year included celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary with old friends and my grandsons. Our son, Ruben, served as Master of Ceremonies. Nine people from our 1975 wedding joined us in July on Bloom Mountain in West Virginia to tell stories. We played the Dating Game and Danny and Ann Trivia. We, rather, I, got roasted. Oscar, Bruce Kimmel, and I played Simple Gifts on clarinet, bass, and baritone sax. We sang Simple Gifts at our wedding. Listeners and viewers, you can find full performances of this and other referenced tunes at the end of the podcast. Readers, click the links in the transcript or check the show notes. Rolling in Cuba Another highlight was our week-long trip to Cuba for a music extravaganza. Dan Fox and Morningside Studios arranged it, and the Havana Music School hosted a week of the Havana Jazz Festival, daily lessons and ensemble work, culminating in a gig at a restaurant attended by many Havana musicians in town for the Festival. One of the tunes I recorded from the gig, “Sofrito” by Mongo Santamaria, has had 48,000 views on YouTube as of this writing. Before this, my most-viewed videos had 300 views. I'm grateful to Pachy Silveria for saxophone instruction and to Claudia Fumero and Gisselle Perez for their kindness in hosting. I worried about wheelchair access before we went to Cuba, but I needn't have. My wheelchair was no more of a barrier there than it is anywhere else. Too Many and Too Few Horns Speaking of music, I'm playing in two bands now-Lechuga Fresca Latin Band and Summer Street Stompers Dixieland Band. Lechuga Fresca is reconstituting after several musicians moved on to other projects. I'm often the only horn player at rehearsals, while we have five horn players in the Summer Street Stompers. Too few and too many. Both situations have challenges. I've never had to hold my own in a band completely; usually, I hide behind someone. With a horn section, the music at its best is controlled cacophony. Too many horns are nuts. I'm learning to lay back, not hide, drop out sometimes, join the rhythm section other times, and leave more white space in my solos. I'm grateful to my teacher of 17 years, Jeff Harrington. Oscar and I figure that I must be a professional musician. While I don't make a living playing, I made $150 this year. I average 1 hour a day with my music, and it feeds my soul and creates new pathways in my Swiss-cheese brain. Best Governance I'm in my sixth year on the PCORI (Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute) Board, focused on shifting the balance of power in community-research partnerships and in the participatory governance of AI used in research. If reappointed, I'll enthusiastically re-up for another six years. PCORI has the best Board, leadership, and staff dynamics, as well as the output, of any organization I've participated with during my 50-year career. A nod to Jan Oldenburg for outstanding coaching that kept me focused on two goals at a time. Game-Changing Startup A year ago, I would have said serving on the PCORI Board of Governors was the pinnacle of my career but let me tell you about my new career gig. For twenty-five years, I've worked with many collaboratives to advance patients’ abilities to turn their health data into useful information to make choices about their health and care. “Gimme my damn data” is a great slogan and first step, but success could be drinking dirty water out of a firehose. I virtually met my start-up partners, Tomas Moras and Marianne Hudgins in April and started working together in August. We're seeking seed funding to build a Personal Health Data Bank, an owner-controlled health data bank that promotes individual data ownership, safety, security, and trust by storing personal health data from any source and using AI-assisted synthesis to serve the data owner. Data owners' needs vary. We might need our data for research participation, health data summarization, clinician visit prep, care coordination with family in whatever diaspora, or tracking data over the years, across health systems and locations.  We have a sandbox where we are testing and enhancing existing open-source technology while we figure out participatory governance to address ethical, privacy, and usability issues. We favor a bottom-up rather than a top-down approach as we build community and services for owners and their trusted networks. I'm excited about the challenge of finding the smallest viable community that can use these Data Banks, with everyone making enough money to sustain the banks, service providers, and networks. No data broker would make money on the data. I'm revved up as I learn about a new audience – investors. The diversity of investors rivals that of any culture I'm new to. Onward I traveled to DC, Portland OR, New Orleans, and Colorado. In 2026, we booked a trip to Belize with Linda and Mike DeRosa. We are also planning a trip to Ireland and Wales with my brother-in-law, Paul Boland, I'll be sharing more about my adventures on my podcast and social media. Best Health Now Oh, I almost forgot. My health is excellent, meaning I spend a decent share of time in a state of best health. Talked to a friend, Shel. How do you answer people when they ask how you are doing? On a scale of 1 to 10, with this administration, the best is a seven. Considering the annoyances of MS, that brings it down to a five. So, how are you doing? Five out of ten is best health.  I lost 50 pounds this year after a Type II Diabetes diagnosis. Mobility remains steady, though I was slowing down before the weight loss. I rate symptoms as annoying, seriously annoying, or disabling. Episodes of disabling symptoms are rare and brief. I know how to handle most symptoms most of the time. I'm delighted with a five. Endorphins and Gratitude I'm grateful for my health, my pathological optimism, my privilege, my honey, my grandkids, and my health team. I appreciate all of you – family, friends, and colleagues. You infuse me with energizing endorphins, the best antidote to fatigue. May you celebrate the energizing moments you find in these disturbing times. A https://goodlistening.org poet wrote this poem for me. Related episodes from Health Hats https://health-hats.com/pod233/ https://health-hats.com/pod228/ https://health-hats.com/pod128/ Artificial Intelligence in Podcast Production Health Hats, the Podcast, utilizes AI tools for production tasks such as editing, transcription, and content suggestions. While AI assists with various aspects, including image creation, most AI suggestions are modified. All creative decisions remain my own, with AI sources referenced as usual. Questions are welcome. Creative Commons Licensing CC BY-NC-SA This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator. If you remix, adapt, or build upon the material, you must license the modified material under identical terms. CC BY-NC-SA includes the following elements:    BY: credit must be given to the creator.   NC: Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted.    SA: Adaptations must be shared under the same terms. Please let me know. danny@health-hats.com. Material on this site created by others is theirs, and use follows their guidelines. Disclaimer The views and opinions presented in this podcast and publication are solely my responsibility and do not necessarily represent the views of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute®  (PCORI®), its Board of Governors, or Methodology Committee. Danny van Leeuwen (Health Hats)

On this week's Labor History Today: From Camp Solidarity in Matewan, West Virginia—the heart of the legendary Mine Wars—UMWA President Cecil Roberts reflects on the long struggle of coal miners to claim America's promise that “this land belongs to all of us.” On the eve of his retirement, Roberts' words connect today's fights for justice with a century of labor history rooted in the hollers of Appalachia. (Originally broadcast 9/21/25; updated with today's Labor History in 2:00) Questions, comments, or suggestions are welcome, and to find out how you can be a part of Labor History Today, email us at LaborHistoryToday@gmail.com Labor History Today is produced by the Labor Heritage Foundation and the Kalmanovitz Initiative for Labor and the Working Poor. #LaborRadioPod #History #WorkingClass #ClassStruggle @GeorgetownKILWP #LaborHistory @UMDMLA @ILLaborHistory @AFLCIO @StrikeHistory #LaborHistory @wrkclasshistory  

On the final episode of 2025, West Virginia Outdoors with Chris Lawrence looks back on a remarkable year across the Mountain State's woods and waters. Chris revisits one of the biggest themes of the year — a surge in new state fishing records — including conversations with anglers who set marks for blue catfish, largemouth bass length, black crappie, redhorse sucker, and redear sunfish.The show also reflects on a memorable story from Cherokee Lake in Tennessee, where a West Virginia angler landed a record-sized striper but chose conservation over certification by releasing the fish.The episode also returns to one of the year's most endearing moments with Brooke Markley, the 2025 West Virginia Trout Festival Queen, whose passion for hunting, fishing, and the outdoors shattered pageant stereotypes. From her elk hunt in Colorado to fishing Franklin's streams, her story became a highlight of the season.The year-end broadcast blends record-book moments, conservation ethics, community traditions, and personal stories that defined West Virginia Outdoors in 2025, closing the year with gratitude for listeners and anticipation for what lies ahead in 2026.

It's Friday, December 26th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes written by yours truly and heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. Filling in for Adam McManus, I'm Ean Leppin. (Contact@eanvoiceit.com) Christmas for Christians Internationally Hope you and your family had a blessed Christmas Day yesterday!  But in some countries celebrating Christmas is illegal and must be done in secret.  Persecution.org reported what Christians in certain countries risk by acknowledging the Christmas Holiday. In Brunei, in Asia, public displays of Christmas are banned. While Christians are allowed to recognize the holiday inside their homes or churches, they can't hold any public Christmas celebrations. The nation officially banned public Christmas displays in 2014, fearing that they could lead Muslims away from Islam. Muslims found violating the ban, by wearing Santa hats or in some fashion partaking in banned Christmas festivities, could face up to five years in prison. Additionally, Christians are prohibited from spreading the gospel to Muslims. In China, they allow approved groups to hold restricted Christmas celebrations, which vary by region. Individuals younger than 18 years old are forbidden to attend Christmas church celebrations, and authorities continue their campaign to force churches to inject communism into Christian worship. In Iran, Christmas gatherings are allowed in registered churches and approved districts. Small, unregistered house-churches, particularly those of Muslim converts to Christianity, are often raided by authorities.  In November 2025, two individuals who converted to Christianity from Islam began serving a two-year prison sentence for charges related to their participation in a Christian house church. In addition, all church services are forbidden to be conducted in Farsi, Iran's native language. Instead, foreign languages, such as Armenian or Assyrian, are typically used to curb the spread of Christianity to native-born Muslim-Iranians.  Read about other countries in the link on our transcript at www.theworldview.com Ephesians 6:18 says  "praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints" Christians Blocked from Attending Christmas Service in Indonesia Morning Star News reports that Muslims in the West Java Province, Indonesia formed a human wall to block Christians from attending a Christmas service on December 14th.  Videos on social media show police officers and onlookers watching dozens of Muslim men and women holding hands to form a human chain, making anti-Christian comments.  Indonesian society in recent years has adopted a more conservative Islamic character, and churches involved in evangelistic outreach are at risk of being targeted by Islamic extremist groups, according to Open Doors. Nigerian Christian Receives Full Pardon from Death Sentence A Nigerian Christian farmer who was sentenced to death after killing a Fulani radical in self-defense following an attack on his farm has been released from prison after receiving a full pardon according to the Christian Post. Christian rights advocates including US Rep. Riley M Moore of West Virginia are celebrating the release of Sunday Jackson, a student and farmer from the Demsa Local Government Area of Adamawa State, who was sentenced to death in 2021 over a 2015 confrontation on his farm.  Here is Representative Riley M Moore calling attention to this issue to the US House. MOORE: “I would urge the Nigerian government to take a look at pardoning Sunday Jackson, who is an individual who was fighting for his own life, defending his life against one of these Fulani militants. That Fulani militant lost his life in that struggle, and now that person, Sunday Jackson, is facing the death penalty! Where's the justice in that? All these Fulani militants are breaking the law. They are breaking Nigerian law. And so, Sunday Jackson disarms this person with a knife, protects his own life. He's going to prison, and now faces the death penalty, and Fulani militants, just roaming bands of them, with AK-47s, and that's no problem.” Moore went on to say ‘Sunday Jackson is free! After more than a decade in prison serving a death sentence for defending himself, Sunday Jackson has been pardoned…I have been advocating for Sunday's release both in public and in private meetings, including during my recent Congressional Delegation visit to Nigeria.' Psalm 138:7 says, Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. Woman Dying of Cancer Receives Hundreds of Christmas Cards Good News Network tells of Clare Jones from Wales a mother of 3 who was told her cancer was no longer responding to treatment and given months to live made a simple request on Facebook she said, ‘After finding out last week that this is probably going to be my last Christmas.  I am looking for ways to make it super special!  I'm a simple person who likes simple things.  I love Christmas Cards!  I would love to have lots of cards this year!...when you are doing your cards could you pop an extra one for me?' That post was shared 10,000 times and her mailbox has received hundreds of cards this holiday season.  Many of the cards contain show and movie tickets, vouchers for camping trips, free flights and other gifts.  Jones told the BBC ‘I have many people around me who care for me.  If love could cure cancer, I would be cured.' Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, December 26th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. Filling in for Adam McManus I'm Ean Leppin (Contact@eanvoiceit.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Happy Holidays! While our team is off for the holiday, we want to take this opportunity to revisit our conversation with West Virginia Delegate Kayla Young. Host Ryan Coonerty and Young offer a political history lesson on how once-blue West Virginia took a sharp right turn, what the rest of the country can learn from the Mountain State, and how she approaches her work as part of the smallest legislative minority in the country. The conversation also dives into energy policy and politics, including the impact of the Biden Administration's investment in a clean energy economy, the Trump Administration's efforts to reverse course, with over $100 million in losses in solar investments, and rising coal mining unemployment in West Virginia. The granddaughter of a coal miner, Young explains how we should think about coal and the opportunities for miners in today's economy. She also discusses her path to public service from a food truck owner to the legislature. Tune in for an honest and clear look at the economic, environmental, legislative, and political realities in the state of West Virginia.  IN THIS EPISODE:  • [01:04] The political history of West Virginia and its current status with only nine democratic seats. • [03:21] What changed the trajectory of West Virginia's politics and how it has responded to Biden. • [06:00] The real-world and political impact of the coal industry. • [08:50] How Trump's tariffs have influenced industry and job creation in West Virginia. • [10:15] Persevering in the legislature when the numbers are against you. • [14:43] How working in food service prepared Kayla. • [17:40] Making the case for a clean environment and a sustainable economic structure. • [19:00] Why there is hope for democrats in West Virginia. • [21:00] Understanding succession in the legislature. • [24:13] Advice for those who may want to run for office.    

Missing Sodder Children /// Part 2 /// 893Part 2 of 2 www.TrueCrimeGarage.comIn Fayetteville, West Virginia there once stood two billboards. Billboards announcing a mystery and asking for help. These billboards were up for decades, seeking answers. Passing motorists could easily see either as they wizzed by in their automobiles. This is the information from one of them. At the top was a simple announcement - “After thirty years it is not too late to investigate” Below this text, the billboard featured pictures of each of the five missing Sodder children - Maurice, Martha, Louis, Jennie, and Betty.  The text below the pictures read… On Christmas Eve 1945 our home was set afire and five of our children ages 5 through 14 kidnapped. The officials blamed defective wiring although lights were still burning after the fire started. The official report stated that the children died in the fire. However no bones were found in the residue and there was no smell of burning flesh during or after the fire. What was the motive of the law officers involved? What did they have to gain by making us suffer all of these years of injustice? Why did they force us to accept those lies? Anyone with any information is asked to email5sodderkids@gmail.com Beer of the Week - Holiday Cheer by Shiner Garage Grade - 4 and 3 quarter bottle caps out of 5  More True Crime Garage can be found on Patreon and Apple subscriptions with our show - Off The Record.  Catch dozens of episodes of Off The Record plus a couple of Bonus episodes and our first 50 when you sign up today.  True Crime Garage merchandise is available on our website's store page.   Follow the show on X and Insta @TrueCrimeGarage / Follow Nic on X @TCGNIC / Follow The Captain on X @TCGCaptain  Be good, be kind, and Merry Christmas!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Missing Sodder Children /// Part 1 /// 892Part 1 of 2 www.TrueCrimeGarage.comIn Fayetteville, West Virginia there once stood two billboards. Billboards announcing a mystery and asking for help. These billboards were up for decades, seeking answers. Passing motorists could easily see either as they wizzed by in their automobiles. This is the information from one of them. At the top was a simple announcement - “After thirty years it is not too late to investigate” Below this text, the billboard featured pictures of each of the five missing Sodder children - Maurice, Martha, Louis, Jennie, and Betty.  The text below the pictures read… On Christmas Eve 1945 our home was set afire and five of our children ages 5 through 14 kidnapped. The officials blamed defective wiring although lights were still burning after the fire started. The official report stated that the children died in the fire. However no bones were found in the residue and there was no smell of burning flesh during or after the fire. What was the motive of the law officers involved? What did they have to gain by making us suffer all of these years of injustice? Why did they force us to accept those lies? Anyone with any information is asked to email 5sodderkids@gmail.com Beer of the Week - Holiday Cheer by Shiner Garage Grade - 4 and 3 quarter bottle caps out of 5  More True Crime Garage can be found on Patreon and Apple subscriptions with our show - Off The Record.  Catch dozens of episodes of Off The Record plus a couple of Bonus episodes and our first 50 when you sign up today.  True Crime Garage merchandise is available on our website's store page.   Follow the show on X and Insta @TrueCrimeGarage / Follow Nic on X @TCGNIC / Follow The Captain on X @TCGCaptain  Be good, be kind, and Merry Christmas!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brad Paisley is a Grammy winning artist and one of country music's most respected storytellers, known for his masterful guitar work and deeply personal songwriting. Brad sits down with Hoda Kotb to reflect on growing up in West Virginia, the grandfather who gave him his first guitar for Christmas, and why giving back has always been part of his life. Plus, he shares the inspiration behind his latest album, Snow Globe Town, and why doing something tangible is how you can create hope, especially during the holiday season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's Christmas break time for the Mountaineer basketball team—and a rare chance to pause.The four-day layoff marks West Virginia's final significant break of the season, offering a valuable window for both mental and physical recovery before diving into the grind of an 18-game Big 12 schedule.In this episode, the “Guys” recap Monday's comfortable win over Mississippi Valley State and look ahead to the challenges that await once conference play begins.Listener questions and comments wrap up the show.

This special rerun brings back one of Molly and Emese's most beloved conversations: a heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply human sit-down with the endlessly graceful Jennifer Garner. From early days in West Virginia and falling in love with ballet and theater to becoming the face of Alias and the ultimate rom-com queen in 13 Going on 30, Jennifer opens up about the moments that shaped her career — and her heart. Molly and Emese chat with Jennifer about motherhood, resilience, and navigating life with humor and grace, including how she really handles hard days, why “movement is medicine,” and what it looks like to raise grounded, resilient kids while living in the spotlight. They also get into her passion for Once Upon a Farm, and the routines that keep her grounded — from nightly gratitude to her very real approach to beauty and aging. If you're in the mood for a conversation that feels equal parts comforting, smart, and unfiltered — the kind that reminds you grace doesn't have to be perfect — this one's worth another listen. A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us at @sonypodcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Mentioned in the Episode: The Last Thing He Told Me - TV Series Yes Day - Movie Family Switch - Movie 13 Going On 30 - Movie Save the Children NGO The Limit Workout Classes Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir by Ina Garten Farmshop - Los Angeles Once Upon a Farm A Dozen Cousins Beans Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes Neutrogena Compostable Makeup Remover Wipes Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Moisturizer Neutrogena Retinol Eye Cream Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum Neutrogena Beach Defense Face & Body Sunscreen Dr. Doris Day - Dermatologist Bottega Veneta Men's Messenger Bag ALAÏA Leather-Trimmed Mesh Pumps Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fayetteville, West Virginia sits on the edge of the New River Gorge, a small Appalachian town now known as a gateway to one of America's newest national parks. But on Christmas Eve in 1945, it became the setting for one of the most haunting unsolved mysteries in American history. After a house fire destroyed the home of George and Jennie Sodder, five of their children vanished without a trace, leaving behind conflicting investigations, reported sightings, unsettling clues, and a decades-long search for answers. Sources: What Happened to the Sodder Children, the Siblings Who Went Up in Smoke in a West Virginia House Fire? The Sodders thought they lost their children in a house fire. But they found only mystery in the ashes For a full list of our sources, visit npadpodcast.com/episodes For the latest NPAD updates, group travel details, merch and more, follow us on npadpodcast.com and our socials at: Instagram: @‌nationalparkafterdark TikTok: @‌nationalparkafterdark Support the show by becoming an Outsider and receive ad free listening, bonus content and more on Patreon or Apple Podcasts. Want to see our faces? Catch full episodes on our YouTube Page! Thank you to the week's partners! Cash App: Download Cash App Today: [https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/ejy661fu] #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Rocket Money: Use our link to get started saving.

In November 1966, a winged creature with glowing red eyes began terrorizing the small town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia — and thirteen months later, just ten days before Christmas, the Silver Bridge collapsed during rush hour, killing 46 people returning home from holiday shopping. Was the Mothman a harbinger of doom... or something far more sinister? | WEEK OF DECEMBER 21, 2025 #WDRadio==========HOUR ONE: Most all of us think of Christmas as a time of love, warmth, joy, and charity… but for some, Christmas isn't merry at all… it's murderous. We'll look at some horrific holiday murders and the killers behind them. And more! But first… we visit Point Pleasant, West Virginia during the Holidays of 1967… but we don't see a sleigh and reindeer in the sky… we see a nightmare.==========HOUR TWO: Christmas is supposed to be the merry season with joy and light in the darkness. But many places arehaunted by ghosts and paranormal activity during this time. In fact, many of the ghost stories I'll share tonight are haunted especially around Christmas.==========SUDDEN DEATH OVERTIME: “Rejected Christmas Gift Ends In Murder” *** “The Lawson Christmas Massacre”==========SOURCES AND REFERENCES FROM TONIGHT'S SHOW:“Overshadowing Christmas With Tragedy” by Julie Henthorn: https://tinyurl.com/3e2a5dr6“Have Yourself a Very Mothman Christmas”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/mrxt43wx“Bruce Pardo: Killer Santa”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8c78vd“Kristy Bamu's Cruel Christmas”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8k3mys“The Tradition of Christmas Ghost Stories”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yckzjuwk“Christmas Hauntings”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8ja4rz“The Mistletoe Bride”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/26ak3rxs“Fatima's Harp”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3pe7cne8“A Royal Christmas Haunting”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3fyzhj6p“The Highway Man”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/2p8h68z3“The Brown Lady”: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yc7z852v==========Weird Darkness theme by Alibi Music Library. Background music provided by Alibi Music Library, EpidemicSound and/or StoryBlocks with paid license. Music from Shadows Symphony (https://tinyurl.com/yyrv987t), Midnight Syndicate (http://amzn.to/2BYCoXZ) Kevin MacLeod (https://tinyurl.com/y2v7fgbu), Tony Longworth (https://tinyurl.com/y2nhnbt7), and Nicolas Gasparini (https://tinyurl.com/lnqpfs8) is used with permission of the artists.==========(Over time links seen above may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for material I use whenever possible. If I have overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it immediately. Some links may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)=========="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46==========WeirdDarkness®, WeirdDarkness© 2025==========To become a Weird Darkness Radio Show affiliate, contact Radio America at affiliates@radioamerica.com, or call 800-807-4703 (press 2 or dial ext 250).

In this episode Steve and Nubbin talk about Christmas, past and present.It's a fun walk down memory lane for a couple of guys that have witnessed more than 160 Christmases in their combined earthy journey.   The pair spins several tales of Christmases past in Alabama and West Virginia that will amuse and entertain.  Nubbin's wife Becky is still quite the entertainer with plans for more than thirty adults and their kids to invade the Sterrett, Ala., homestead at her gathering this year.  Steve and Ella take a more subtle approach to what is a favorite time of year, choosing a small, family-oriented holiday celebration.  The second part of the episode features guest Danny Jones of Rockwell, North Carolina.  Danny is promoting a new coon hunt in an old familiar location.  The Carolina Classic on January 23 – 24, will be held in Salisbury, North Carolina at the familiar Rowan County Fairgrounds where Southeastern Treeing Walker Days was held for many years.  Danny heads the Trapp Hill Coon Hunters Association that will host the event.  All details of the homecoming event are discussed.From each of us at the Gone To The Dogs Podcast, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!We would like to thank those who support this podcast.  Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode.  www.dusupply.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@DoubleUHuntingSupply/podcasts Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.