Appalachia Meets World

It's almost FESTIVAL SEASON in Appalachia!!! In this episode Will and (sans) Neil sit down with Pineville Schools. Through the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) Program Samantha North and Shannon Elliott applied for a grant through the Smithsonian Institute to allow a group of students to produce a documentary about the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival (the oldest festival on record in the Commonwealth of Kentucky). Speaking to nostalgia for the guys, here how Shannon and Samantha guided the students, not only through the process but through the significance of the festival itself. For a lot of people from Pineville the KMLF is more than just a festival, it's a sense of belonging, a sense of place. Take a listen to hear what it now means to Shannon and Samantha and how that carried over to the students. It proved to provide a sense of purpose for the students, one that they could learn to appreciate where they're from. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week (for Youth Apprenticeship Week): DataSeam; and Cornett Farm Fresh! Smithsonian Museum on Main Street - https://museumonmainstreet.org "When the Mountain Laurel Blooms: Embracing Tradition in Pineville, KY" - https://museumonmainstreet.org/content/when-mountain-laurel-blooms-embracing-tradition-pineville-kentucky Mountain Lion News - www.youtube.com/@Mtnlionnews/videos Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival - www.kmlf.org App News: Mother's Day (in Appalachia) - www.history.com/topics/holidays/mothers-day Foxfire Mother's of Appalachia Book: Article (Garden and Gun) - https://gardenandgun.com/articles/why-foxfire-still-resonates/ Appalachian Sustainable Finance Hub Launch Event - www.heartlandfinancehub.org/launch?emci=20b528c3-a908-ef11-96f3-7c1e521b07f9&emdi=ea000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&ceid=%7B%7BContactsEmailID%7D%7D ARC Arise $1.7 Million - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-1-7-million-to-grow-workforces-in-cybersecurity-infrastructure-and-housing-capacity-across-six-appalachian-states/ Youth Apprenticeship Week - https://blog.dol.gov/2024/05/06/youth-apprenticeship-week-is-here Festival (State) Guide - https://festivalguidesandreviews.com #AppBiz: DataSeam - www.kydataseam.com Cornett Farm Fresh - www.cornettfarmfresh.com

In this inaugural (and monthly) Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow "Spin and Chat," Neil and Will sit down with Mick Thornton - a self described builder of things and current Fellow in San Juan County, Utah. In a previous episode (episode 139) Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council, explained the purpose of the ERC - as described on the website - "a new collaborative initiative designed to accelerate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic in distressed communities and regions throughout the U.S. by connecting organizations with the talent and capacity needed to advance new ways of doing economic development that promote economic resilience and transformative change." It connects a Fellow to a Host community in order to build capacity and drive transformative change. Mick Thorton is one of those Fellows! Hear from Mick as he describes why he applied and all about his project in San Juan, UT - and how challenges there (and other regions) are much more similar to challenges in Appalachia than they are different. You'll also hear about Mick's background, what he hopes to accomplish and maybe a little about the "adventure" he and his family have been on the two years prior to accepting the fellowship - in the end, it's about the people! As a former Pastor and Radio Host, those learned skills for Mick have seamlessly been adapted to the ever expanding (and new) field of economic development - or as Mick describes, a field built on connections. Take a listen to get a true understanding of why Mick does what he does - and how the region he works in is better for it. You might even hear Neil and Will talk about the "greatest two minutes in sports" - or why Neil has turned his back on the unofficial drink of Kentucky. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Horse Soldier! Learn about the Fellow: https://economicrecoverycorps.org/fellow-information/rev-mick-thornton-b-a-m-div/ Learn about the Host (San Juan County, UT) Project: https://economicrecoverycorps.org/projects/ Mick's Minute - www.micksminute.com The Good Talk (App) - www.thegoodtalkapp.com App News: Connect Humaniy/Microsoft IDEA Fund in Appalachia - https://connecthumanity.fund/idea-fund-partnership-microsoft/ Ohio Grant for Recreational Opportunities and Quality of Life in Appalachia - https://governor.ohio.gov/media/news-and-media/transformative-154-million-investment-in-appalachian-downtowns-and-destinations#:~:text=The%20%24154%20million%20will%20be,where%20these%20opportunities%20have%20not PBS Docuseries Episode 2 on Appalachia with Amythyst Kiah (article) - www.johnsoncitypress.com/living/arts-entertainment/amythyst-kiah-to-be-featured-in-new-pbs-docuseries/article_8010291e-023f-11ef-8c53-2731d0dc7c32.html PBS Docuseries Episode 2 "The Express Way with Dule Hill" - www.pbs.org/video/appalachia-dbxwz4/ SOAR Country Music Highway Tribute Show(s) - www.cmhtributeshow.com SOAR Country Music Highway Tribute Show Facebook Page - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558753064401 #AppBiz: Horse Soldier - https://horsesoldierbourbon.com Extras: The Round Robin Bar ("Mint Julep Bar") in DC - https://washington.intercontinental.com/food-drink/round-robin-bar/ The Mint Julep (Official Kentucky Derby Recipe) - www.kentuckyderby.com/recipes/drinks/woodford-reserve-mint-julep/ Music: "Achy Breaky Heart" - Billy Ray Cyrus "Up" (Mick's Choice) - Forrest Frank "Black Myself" - Amythyst Kiah

In this episode Will and (minus) Neil sit down with the "Beattyville Hillbillies!" Donnie Benton and Teresa Mays are the founders of the Backwoods Moonshine Museum in Appalachia Kentucky - a stop on the "Moonshine Trail." While the Bourbon Trail is often thought of when thinking Kentucky, the Moonshine Trail is more on the Appalachian side of the state and speaks to the rich heritage and history moonshine has in Appalachia. Take a listen as Donnie and Teresa talk about starting the museum and their history with the spirit...not to mention their stint on "Moonshiners." AMW has spoken before about the importance of festivals in small town Appalachia; hear from the "Beattyville Hillbillies" as they talk about a fairly new (in its fourth year) festival that the history of moonshine has brought to their small town. You might even hear Donnie speak of "knowing a guy that knows a guy." If nothing else, check 'em out - as they admit, it's truly in the backwoods! Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Barrel House Distilling Company; Regeneration Distilling Company; Kentucky Mist Distillery; Kentucky Mountain Moonshine; and Pauley Hollow Distillery! Backwoods Moonshine Museum - www.backwoodsmoonshinemuseum.com Moonshine Trail - www.moonshinetrail.com The Beattyville Hillbillies - www.facebook.com/p/Donnie-Teresa-The-Beattyville-Hillbillies-Backwoods-Moonshine-Museum-100039862821268/ Beattyville Bourbon and Moonshine Festival - www.beattyvillebourbonandmoonshinefest.com App News: Solar for All Program (KY) - https://kentuckylantern.com/briefs/kentucky-to-receive-62-million-to-expand-solar-energy-access-to-low-income-households/ ARC READY Local Governments Initiative - www.arc.gov/news/arc-selects-90-local-governments-to-receive-no-cost-training-access-to-funding-through-ready-local-governments-initiative/ #AppBiz(s): Barrel House Distilling Company - www.barrelhousedistillery.com Regeneration Distilling Company - www.regenerationdistilling.com Kentucky Mist Distillery - www.kentuckymist.com Kentucky Mountain Moonshine - www.kentuckymountainmoonshine.com Pauley Hollow Distillery - www.pauleyhollowdistillery.com Extra: The Bobcat Dairy Bar - www.facebook.com/thebobcatdairybar/ Brenda's BBQ Smoke Shack - www.facebook.com/BrendasSmokeShack/

Sorry for missing last week...we had a few technical (and timing) difficulties...but, like BBN (and poltergeist) - WE'RE BACK!! In this episode, Neil and Will throw it back to their favorite Appalachian Food episode of all time, with the "King of Country Ham" - Allan Benton! We also discuss the Appalachian Appetizer Final Four and who was crowned the 2024 Champion - definitely "one shining moment!" No sleepers here, there were definitely some blue bloods in the mix! Take a listen to find out which appetizer was crowned the fan favorite! We also talked about a few upcoming App News items, check 'em out in the notes below! Till next time remember to be - "Always Appalachian!" Grandma Gatewood One Act Play: https://lorainpalace.com/emma-gatewood-are-you-out-of-your-bloomin-mind-sunday-may-19th-at-200-pm-15/ https://www.morningjournal.com/2024/04/08/nathan-perry-chapter-fundraiser-to-feature-one-act-play-on-emma-gatewood/ ARC Appalachian Leadership Institute (deadline for applications is June 1st!!) - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/leadership/ ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy - https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/aea/ ARC Appalachian STEM Academy - https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/stem/

In this episode Neil and Will throwback to a previous "food" episode with Melissa Booth Hall of the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA). First though, they spend some time breaking down the Sweet Sixteen of Appalachian Appetizers! The Final Four has been set, take a listen to find out what has made the list. The guys also talk about how food is a uniter among people, not just in Appalachia but in most cultures. Find out how food is a bit nostalgic for them both - and the best way to cook a roast! Southern Foodways Alliance - www.southernfoodways.org #App News: Startup Appalachian Pitch Competition (SOAR) - https://soar-ky.org/accepting-applications-2024-soar-startup-appalachia-pitch-competition/

In this episode, AMW sits down with Mark Hendricks a photo journalist who recently completed a stunning book dedicated to the Appalachian Mountains. In the book - "The Central Appalachians - Mountains of the Chesapeake", Mark dedicates almost a decade of his life to document the amazing aspects of one of the most diverse mountain ranges in the world. Take a listen as he describes his journey, his favorite photo and what was one of the most dynamic aspects of the mountains! Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: The Benezette Hotel! Mark Hendricks Photography - www.markhendricksphoto.com The Central Appalachians: Mountains of the Chesapeake www.schiffermilitary.com/collections/schiffer-new-releases/products/the-central-appalachians #AppBiz: The Benezette Hotel - www.benezettehotel.com

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Molly Hemstreet the Co-Executive Director of the Industrial Commons - reviving the historic textile district in North Carolina one social enterprise at a time. The Industrial Commons founds and scales employee owned social enterprises and industrial cooperatives, and support frontline workers to build a new southern working class that erases the inequities of generational poverty and guilds an economy and future for all. Molly explains how it all started "with some thread" and how she has not only transformed her organization but the Carolina Textile District as well. Take a listen to hear thoughts on social enterprises, cooperatives and the circular economy and how she thinks about the workplace and the future of work in the mountains. You might even hear about Neil's "update." Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Opportunity Threads; and The Collection! The Industrial Commons - www.theindustrialcommons.org AppNews: "Interpreting Rural Life: From Appalachia to the World" - https://cas.appstate.edu/news/march-22-documentary-filmmakers-interpreting-rural-life-appalachia-world The APPY Awards - https://www.facebook.com/theappalachianartsandentertainmentawards/ #AppBiz(s): Opportunity Threads - www.opportunitythreads.com Collection - https://createthecollection.com

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Dana Kuhnline, a senior program director for Reimagine Appalachia - a broad and inclusive coalition of individuals and organizations based in Appalachia. Hear from Dana as she describes what Reimagine Appalachia is all about and how there efforts are making an impact on the region. While the word "reimagine" could be taken a number of ways, she describes how the organization is thinking towards the future - a more sustainable and equitable future - while remembering the past and cultural heritage that is so strong in the region. Take a listen as she explains why she is so passionate about the region and the work she has been doing for decades. You might even hear why Neil is so down and out on this day and how he's branching out when it comes to his favorite appetizer! Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Appalachian Arts Craft Center! Reimagine Appalachia - https://reimagineappalachia.org App News: Boomers Who Tried to Move to Florida and Ended Up in Appalachia - www.wsj.com/us-news/boomers-retirees-appalachia-georgia-retirement-9bf8e61f?st=696ryi30yypjtv4&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink Canary in the Coalmines - www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/what-happened-canary-coal-mine-story-how-real-life-animal-helper-became-just-metaphor-180961570/ 48C Workshop Charleston, WV - www.arc.gov/event/central-appalachia-§-48c-regional-event/ Appalachian Voices Report Just Transition and Community Engagement - https://appvoices.org/reports/modeling-just-transition-va/ Senator Joe Manchin and "Rugged" WV - www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-leads-effort-to-better-categorize-rural-appalachia-for-federal-education-resources #AppBiz: Appalachian Arts Craft Center - https://appalachianarts.net Extra: Academy Award Winners - www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2024 Check social this week for the Appetizer March Madness Bracket!

It's Cookie Season Ya'll! In this episode and in celebration of Women's History Month, Neil and Will sit down with Lynne Fugate the CEO of the Girl Scouts of the Appalachians. It's not just about the cookies - hear her talk about the impact the organization makes on young girls and communities. Then take some time and try all the cookies and figure out which one is your favorite, then go vote! Take a listen to find out Lynne's favorite and why she is so passionate about the Girl Scouts and the lessons that are taught far beyond selling the most cookies. You might even hear Neil give his "favorite" pick for the Academy Awards and how his "visit" went last week. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Appalachian Cookie Company! Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians - www.girlscoutcsa.org The Great Cookie Competition - www.girlscoutcsa.org/en/support-us/fundraising-events/great-cookie-competition.html#:~:text=Introducing%20The%20Great%20Cookie%20Competition!&text=Individuals%20representing%20our%20beloved%20Girl,crowned%20their%20region%27s%20Favorite%20Cookie The Great Cookie Tasting - www.girlscoutcsa.org/en/support-us/fundraising-events/great-cookie-tasting.html App News: 48C Workshops - www.energy.gov/indianenergy/events/qualifying-advanced-energy-project-credit-ss48c-central-appalachia-workshop ARC Arise Award - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-1-7-million-to-multi-state-economic-development-projects-in-northern-and-central-appalachia/ Opportunity Appalachia and Truist Charitable Fund - https://appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/2024/02/27/appalachian-community-capital-receives-grant-from-the-truist-charitable-fund-for-redevelopment-projects-in-central-appalachia/ #AppBiz: The Appalachian Cookie Company - https://appcookieco.com

It's March, so that means one thing - no, it's not the start of spring - no, it's not daylight savings time (spring forward) - it's getting into "March Madness." In light of the upcoming tournament we are just having a throwback episode this week - with an Appalachian born coaching phenom that came from the mountains and has been on the career college coaching path for a while now. Take a listen as Will and Neil take us back a bit to one of their earliest episodes - and the impact athletics can have on a small town. Also, you might hear about Neil's "decision" and what is in store for him - we'll definitely need an update next week! And the guy's talk Reed Sheppard - check it out and find out who they believe Reed gives his abilities from! Wherever we roam, we'll be "Always Appalachian" - Y'all! Reed Sheppard: https://theathletic.com/5305993/2024/02/29/reed-sheppard-kentucky-basketball/

In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Emily Hudson the Executive Director and Founder of the Southeast Kentucky African American Museum and Cultural Center (SEKYAAMCC). Born and raised in the hills of Eastern Kentucky, Emily explains what led her away and what eventually brought her back to the place she has always called "home." In light of Black History Month, the SEKYAAMCC is a place that celebrates black history in Appalachia every month (not just one month a year), but more importantly provides a platform to tell the stories of Appalachia that were often overlooked or just unheard. Take a listen as she describes moving for opportunity, finding her identity and why she is so passionate about preserving the past and educating about local history. You might even hear the guys thoughts on the NBA Slam-Dunk Competition - or can we now call it the Appalachian Championship? Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: D.A.A.D. Distilling! Southeast Kentucky African American Museum and Cultural Center - www.sekyaamc.org "Issues and Answers" with Emily Hudson - www.wymt.com/2024/01/16/issues-answers-emily-jones-hudson/ "Soul Miner" by Emily Hudson - www.amazon.com/Soul-Miner-Emily-Jones-Hudson/dp/154561301X AppNews: Mac McClung - "Appalachian Voices" (article) - https://wvdn.com/134245/?fbclid=IwAR1gS_Ejh10jYAEp-11TixgbWL5g1xU6laFItyM55UhSShK0j7K_iASKDMA Greenbrier Vally Theatre - https://ci.ovationtix.com/35773/production/1188664 Brookings Institute - https://www.brookings.edu/articles/black-wealth-is-increasing-but-so-is-the-racial-wealth-gap/ New Center Marshall University - https://blackbygod.org/articles/civics/african-american-economicdevelopment-at-marshall-university/ #AppBiz: D.A.A.D. Distilling Article - https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2023/09/25/daad-distilling-company D.A.A.D. Distilling Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/DAADdistillingCoLLC

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Alex Weld, the Executive Director of Generation West Virginia - a statewide organization for and by young people who understand that while finding a path isn't easy, it's easier if they navigate the hurdles together. Having several initiatives as a focus, the main goal is to retain and attract young people to the Mountain State. Hear Alex describe those initiatives and how the organization is working to build young capacity and provide opportunities where there once may not have been. You'll hear her passion for the "Country Roads", what kept her there and how she thinks about workforce development. Take a listen while she explains the idea behind the organization and it's plans for the future...of the organization and the State. You might even hear Neil's (and Will's) thoughts on Valentine's Day and a theory about why "his" team fell in the SB. Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Blue Ridge Bee Company; and Appalachian Furnishings! Generation West Virginia - www.generationwv.org AppNews: The Fall of App Harvest: Inside Appalachia - https://wvpublic.org/the-fall-of-appharvest-inside-appalachia/ Outdoor Rec in Appalachia - https://reason.com/2024/02/10/will-outdoor-recreation-save-appalachia/ West Virginia Governer's School of Entrepreneurship - https://wvde.us/gov-schools/school-of-entrepreneurship/ West Virginia Entrepreneurship Conference - https://www.arc.gov/event/west-virginia-entrepreneurship-ecosystem-conference/ #AppBiz(s): Blue Ridge Bee Company - www.blueridgebeecompany.com Appalachian Furnishings - www.appalachianfurnishings.com Extra: Later Gator - www.lateralligator.net Wellsburg, WV

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with an expert in international connection and well-being, Nathan Ohle, the President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). He gives his thoughts on the impacts of economic development in general, but also describes what it means to be an economic developer. He also goes a little deeper on the newly formed Economic Recovery Corps and the transformational impact it could have across the country. Take a listen as he explains the paradigm shift that has occurred in this field of work. You might even hear Neil's pick on the Super Bowl and why appreciates Michigan State fans (and other fans), as long as they are true fans. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: SOAR Innovation 2024 Pitch Competition Finalists! International Economic Development Council - www.iedconline.org Economic Recovery Corps - www.economicrecoverycorps.org AppNews: Barter Theatre Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights - https://bartertheatre.com/appalachian-festival-of-plays-and-playwrights/ ARC Entrepreneurial Office Hours - February 14th West Virginia Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Conference - www.arc.gov/event/west-virginia-entrepreneurship-ecosystem-conference/ #AppBiz(s): SOAR Innovation 2024 Pitch Competition Finalists - https://soar-ky.org/startup-appalachia-pitch-competition-finalists/

In this episode, Will, sans Neil, sits down with Dr. Amanda Jo Slone to discuss her new passion project: The Appalachian Way: The Role of Appalachian Identity in Effective Leadership. The project combines her two loves, Leadership and Appalachia. Find out how she thinks about Appalachian Identity and if that is an asset in the development of leaders. Born and raised in the hollers of Pike County, you'll hear her passion for the region and why she chooses to live a good distance from where she works. Take a listen to find out more about her project and the potential impact it could have on not only individuals in Appalachia but in other regions as well. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: True Pigments! Amanda Jo Slone (UPIKE) - www.upike.edu/employees/slone-amanda/ The Appalachian Way: The Role of Appalachian Identity in Effective Leadership - https://sites.google.com/view/theappalachianway/home App News: ARC POWER Grant - www.arc.gov/grants-and-opportunities/power/ Opportunity Appalachia - https://appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/opportunity-appalachia/ The Nature Conservancy (Grant) - www.nature.org/en-us/newsroom/tnc-pa-rkmellon-freshwater-grant/ #AppBiz: True Pigments - www.truepigments.com

In this episode the guys are taking a break...but, not before they take a moment to talk about the legendary Appalachian himself - "Phil!" Take a listen to find out a little more about Phil and all that revolves around him...but don't get mesmerized by the music and hope that it doesn't play on a loop day, after day, after day, after day, after day, after day, after day, after day.....Happy Candlemas! www.groundhog.org

In this episode an Appalachian native shares her life journey of strength after trauma. Brandi Cox's recently released memoir, "In Better Hands An Appalachian Memoir of Healing and Grace," follows a story of sorrow, growth and understanding ultimately finding peace after abandonment, adoption and grief. Hear from Brandi as she describes how Appalachia has shaped her into the person she is today, and how the resiliency she learned growing up has carried her throughout her life. Take a listen to hear her explain what she hopes others can gain from reading her memoir and how she broke through generational curses to live her best life. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week - Watauga Butchery! Brandi Cox - www.brandicoxauthor.com App News: ARC Ready Local Governments - www.arc.gov/ready/localgovs/ ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/aea/ ARC Appalachian STEM Academy - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/stem/ Opportunity Appalachia - https://appalachiancommunitycapitalcdfi.org/opportunity-appalachia/ Opportunity Appalachia Launch Webinar (Information) - www.arc.gov/event/opportunity-appalachia-2024-launch-webinar/ #AppBiz: Watauga Butchery - www.wataugabutchery.com/

It's 2024 Appalachia! In this episode Neil and Will celebrate the beginning of the new year with their favorite episode from 2023! They also welcome a surprise guest to help them bring in the new year - a guest that won't let Neil get a word in otherwise. Take a listen to find out who the special guest is and what episode was the guys favorite in 2023! Here's to a Happy and Healthy 2024 Appalachia! Wherever you may roam, remember to be "Always Appalachian!"

Happy New Year Countdown! In this episode, Neil and Will recap 2023 in a way you might not have thought of...it's become one of their favorite parts of the episodes, something that has taken on a life of its own. They really just want to use this episode to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! Take a listen, you might hear a favorite appetizer (or two)...you might even hear Neil's favorite movies of 2023, or maybe not. It's been a good year, Neil and Will are looking forward to 2024 and what lies ahead! Happy New Years (in a few days) Appalachia! App News: EDA Recompete (Pilot) Program - www.eda.gov/funding/programs/recompete-pilot-program Recompete Program Finalists Press Release - www.eda.gov/news/press-release/2023/12/20/biden-harris-administration-announces-22-recompete-pilot-program SOAR Recompete Program Finalist - https://soar-ky.org/soar-selected-as-u-s-economic-development-administration-eda-recompete-pilot-program-finalist/

In this episode, Neil and Will celebrate Christmas with the new and the old! It's AI vs AMW - you choose which you prefer...from Neil and Will's perspective it's the human element that - "just means more." Merry Christmas y'all and to y'all a good night! Also, don't forget about #AppBiz(s) of the week - the final 4 (or 5) businesses in the final countdown to the 25 days of (an Appalachian Small Business) Christmas! #AppBiz: 22. Studebaker Metals (Braddock, PA) - www.studebakermetals.com 23. Wander North Georgia (Clayton, GA) - www.wandernorthgeorgia.com 24. Bales Farms ( Mosheim, TN) www.balesfarmstn.com 25. Flux Bene (Pittsburgh, PA) - www.fluxbene.com 25. Rolling Pepperoni (Pittsburgh, PA) - www.rollingpepperoni.com

In this episode Will and Neil (or maybe not) sit down with the "Outlaw Scientist" (as coined by AMW) Dr. Savannah Thais, an expert on Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). As a follow up, Dr. Thais defines what AI is and how it is part of our everyday life. Her research goes beyond the data to focus on how AI impacts society and how we can use AI for social good. Hear her talk specifically about her research in Appalachia and why she focused on the area. Take a listen as she explains if regulation is needed in AI and what we should think about when thinking about the future of AI in Appalachia and beyond. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week - the next seven businesses in our countdown to the 25 Days of (and Appalachian Small Business) Christmas! Dr. Savannah Thais - https://datascience.columbia.edu/people/savannah-thais/ App News: ARC Ready Non-Profits - www.arc.gov/news/more-than-995000-awarded-to-40-appalachian-organizations-via-arcs-ready-nonprofits-initiative/ ARC Appalachian STEM Academy - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/stem/ ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/aea/ #AppBiz(s) of the Week (and the next 7 of the countdown to (Appalachian Small Business) Christmas: 15. East Wheeling Clay Works (Wheeling, WV) - www.eastwheelingclayworks.com 16. Cottonwood Handmade (Boone, NC) - www.cottonwoodhandmade.com 17. Bloom (Garrison, KY) - www.bloom-candles.com 18. ZZZ Box Mattress (Hickory, NC) - www.zboxmattress.com 19. Dresden and Company (Dresden, OH) - www.dresdenandcompany.com 20. Appalachian Botanical Company (Ashford, WV) - www.appalachianbotanical.com 21. Pollinates Honeyworks (Belmonst, OH) - www.pollinateshoneyworks.com