Stories from Southwest Virginia

On today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, we talk to two Montgomery County Coffee Shops as we continue this craft beverage series. The two coffee shops we spoke to today include:

On today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, we talk to two Montgomery County Wineries as we continue this craft beverage series. The two wineries we spoke to today include:

On today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, we talk to three more Montgomery County Breweries as we continue this craft beverage series. The three breweries we spoke to today include:

On today’s episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia Podcast we speak with three breweries who also happen to be three great friends. These breweries in Montgomery County, Virginia tell us what it means to be Southwest Virginian by showcasing a great example of community, being neighborly, and having a passion behind their products.

Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Moon Hollow Brewing, and Eastern Divide Brewing Company were such a fun group to speak with on the podcast. Their love and friendship certainly shine through. Our conversation gives insight into their history, their current operations, and their plans for the future.

Special thanks to David Rotenizer, Executive Director, Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Montgomery County Regional Tourism has helped produce the Craft Beverage Makers of Montgomery County PODCAST SERIES as a component to the Craft Beverage Makers of Montgomery County TRAIL under development. The series includes craft beer, craft wine, and craft coffee.

In today's episode, we speak with Stephanie, a licensed LPC who owns Anchoring Hope Counseling in Wise, County, Virginia. Stephanie and I had a great talk on mental health, anxiety, and stress. It was an interesting look into these topics coming from two different perspectives of both a counselor and a client. 

Mental health is an area we all have to deal with from time to time and showcasing where and how help is available is important to all of us. Southwest Virginians are all about helping one another and this topic area is no different. In the episode, we give some personal examples from our own lives of traumatic experiences, the types of symptoms we have faced, and how we worked to overcome them.

My hope in this episode is that we can reach others out there who may be or have struggled with anxiety, stress, or depression. With all the events going on in our local communities and the world at large, mental health is an important topic to be discussing. 

Stephanie started her practice during the middle of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. A time of uncertainty for all of us. Our hearts and thoughts go out to everyone who is experiencing tough times and we hope today's episode will help put minds at ease, show that you're not alone, and offer up suggestions to aid you through your journey.

In today's episode, we talk with Justin from White Blaze Outdoors about his educational hiking tours around Southwest Virginia. These tours consist of short 2 hour hikes, half-day, and overnight adventures. Justin is a graduate of Emory and Henry College with studies in Biology. His expertise on hiking, backpacking, and wildlife make for a great experience learning more about the Southwest Virginia outdoors. 

Justin's tours are great for individuals, couples, families, kids, and other groups. 

In today's episode, we spoke about all things Front Porch Fest with founders Chris and Sarah. We learn about Front Porch Fest, its origins, how it gives back, who all is performing, and what it's like to attend. 

Front Porch Fest is a music festival located in beautiful Patrick County, Virginia, and takes place on Spirithaven Farm in Stuart. During the festival, you will experience various genres of music, performers, food, beer, and the great outdoors. Not only is the festival looking out for the fun and entertainment of their guests, but also their local community:

"Proceeds from the festival are donated to Patrick County Community Food Bank and Caring Hearts Free Clinic. We think it’s imperative to give back to the community and Front Porch Fest is our way of making a difference in our little area of the planet."

Today, we are chatting with Wythevillve Downtown Executive Director Todd Wolford about the exciting downtown of Wytheville and some upcoming events in 2021. Wytheville in a central hub destination in Southwest Virginia off I-81. If you're looking to travel to West Virginia, North Carolina, Northern Virginia, or Southwest Virginia, chances are, you'll be passing through Wytheville.

Coming out of the pandemic, Todd and the team at Wytheville want to give back to the local community by showcasing a large-scale celebration on July 3rd. Packed with music, food, and downtown charm, this family fun event will be one to not miss!

To find out more about Wytheville and upcoming events, be sure to visit:

In today's episode, I had the chance to sit down and talk with Tourism Director David Rotenizer, Hammer & Forge Brewing owner Caleb Williamson, Chaos Mountain Brewing owner Joseph Hallock. We talked about all things brewing including start-ups, passion projects, innovation, and more. I had the chance to visit both of these breweries back in April of this year and enjoyed both. I went back to Franklin County in May to attend the Chaos Mountain seven-year anniversary party which was an absolute jam!

Both breweries offer beer lovers something different from the environment, to the beers and activities.

To learn more about both of these breweries, be sure to visit their websites.

In today's episode, I took some time to talk to 'Round the Mountain Artisan and professional metalworker, Isaac Hylton about his artistic metal and woodwork. Isaac has been working with metal and welding since he was ten years old. Today, he is sharing his crafts in metal and wood with his eleven-year-old daughter. Passing down the skills and knowledge taught to him by his father all those years ago.

If you would like to see some of Isaac's work, be sure to visit the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center and Marketplace in Abingdon, Virginia.

In today's episode of the podcast, I am joined by 'Round the Mountain Artisan Henri de Hahn to talk about his life of traveling, settling in the region, and his hand-carved, hand-painted snakes. Henri was such a fun quest to speak with on the interpretations of art, various mediums, and how the materials often determine the art.

Today's episode continues the Franklin County Moonshine Heritage month episodes. Today we chat with Franklin County Tourism Director, David Rotenizer, Bethany Worley Director of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, and Karen Dillion Editor of the Franklin News-Post.

In this episode, we talk about what events visitors can expect to participate in during Moonshine Heritage Month, a month-long celebration of moonshine heritage in Franklin County. Two larger events of interest include a themed car show around bootlegging and a running event called Chug for the Jug.

To learn more about Franklin County's Moonshine Heritage month, be sure to visit their pages below:

In today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, I take the show to the Moonshine Capital of Franklin County, Virginia. I am joined by Franklin County Tourism Director, David Rotenizer, Twin Creeks Distillery, and Laws Choice. This special edition episode takes a deep dive into SWVA Moonshine's history with stories of the past. Sit back as we talk about the days of prohibition, bootlegging, and homemade moonshine production.

We also take a look at the changing of times and how these third-generation moonshiners are able to operate legal businesses thanks to changing laws over the years. Today's episode is the real deal stories of a dark past and an inspirational future.

To learn more about Franklin County's Moonshine Heritage Month, be sure to visit their links listed below:

In today's episode, I sat down with Next Level VR founders Luke and Dylan. The guys and I had a great chat about starting businesses, video games, and living in Southwest Virginia. Both of these guys are taking the region by storm with their forward-thinking and strong sense of business. Their idea is "if it doesn't exist, then build it", and that's exactly what they did with their VR center in Pulaski, Virginia. 

Next Level VR is a great place for people of all ages to come together, socialize, and find entertainment. 

In today's special edition episode, we dive into the history of Holston Mountain Artisans located in Abingdon, Virginia. Formed in 1971, Holston Mountain Artisans has spent the last 50 years helping artisans within a 75-mile radius of Abingdon, Virginia. Originally located at the Cave House Craft Shop on main street, Holston Mountain is now located in the old Washington County Jail on Park Street.

Today I was joined by Kathy, Eric, Rees, and Sara

On today's episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast, I had a conversation with Western Front & Sessions Hotel partner, Hal Craddock. Hal took the time to tell us about what you can experience at these hotels as well as the areas that surround them. We covered the idea of storytelling and how boutique hotels offer such a unique experience to guests.

I myself had the pleasure of staying at the Western Front Hotel in St. Paul in July of 2020. It was a great downhome and inviting experience I wish to enjoy again. The next stop on my list is to visit and stay at the Sessions Hotel in Bristol.

If you would like to learn more about these beautiful hotels, feel free to visit their websites at:

This week, we sat down with Mark and Justen of Tumbling Creek Cider Company out of Meadowview, Virginia. A relatively new cider company of only a few years providing a fine variety, Tumbling Creek Cider Company is a statement of SWVA entrepreneurship. Holding true to SWVA style, Tumbling Creek works with local businesses and orchards to keep their stock here at home. 

Tumbling Creek offers around five main ciders in their taproom:

• Moonshot
• Hellbender
• Ridgerunner
• Whitetop
• High Trestle

Aside from these noticeable names, the guys at Tumbling Creek also experiment with seasonal flavors and offerings throughout the year which can be found at their taproom in Abingdon, Virginia. 

The team is made up of four professional individuals from different backgrounds: Jerry, Justen, Thomas, and Mark. Each partner brings to the team a different set of skills, which aids in the successful production of delicious cider. Their cider can be found in local eateries, grocery stores, and businesses within the SWVA region. 

My first experience with Tumbling Creek Cider Company was in the Fall of 2020 during a visit to the Harvest Table in Meadowview. I had a glass of Hellbender, which was in a perfect company to my New York Strip steak. 

If you would like to learn more about Tumbling Creek and their cider, please be sure to visit the links below:

This week we had the opportunity to speak with 'Round the Mountain Artisan and writer, Greg Lilly of Abingdon, Virginia. Greg has written a number of books such as Stray, The Wolf Crystal, and The Devils Bridge. It was great to get to hear first hand how Greg got his start, learn about his life and his love for the Southwest Virginia area.

From Greg's biography: 

Greg Lilly grew up in Bristol, Virginia then lived in Charlotte, North Carolina. The rich storytelling tradition of the South captivated him and he began writing. He first turned to creating short stories after plot lines emerged from the technical manuals he wrote for a large family-owned corporation.

Moving to Sedona, Arizona, Greg chronicled the high desert characters – past and present – in his books, Under a Copper Moon and Scalping the Red Rocks.

Greg relocated to Williamsburg, Virginia, where he wrote and edited a regional magazine.

Today, he lives and writes in Abingdon, Virginia.

To learn more about Greg, his work, and the links mentioned in the episode, please see below:

In this episode of the Stories from Southwest Virginia Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Adda "Addie" Leah Davis. Ms. Davis is not only a member of 'Round the Mountain but also a wonderful writer, currently living in Russell County, Virginia. 

Adda or "Addie" as she was nicknamed took the time to tell me stories of her childhood, her writing processes, and life living in both West Virginia and Virginia. 

Addie has written a number of books, many of which a series. Her most well known series, Fatal Love, currently includes four books. If you would like to learn more about Addie or purchase a copy of one of her books, please sure to visit the following links:

Welcome to the first of our Artist interview series! For this premiere episode, we had the chance to sit down with Daniel Scott of Artistic Kindling to talk to him about his craft. The type of work Daniel performs is called marquetry.

Marquetry (also spelled as marqueterie; from the French marqueter, to variegate) is the art and craft of applying pieces of veneer to a structure to form decorative patterns, designs or pictures.

Daniel creates beautiful wooden works of art using various pieces of wood to create a character or scene. Daniel's works come from his own mind or in commissioned pieces. Daniel has been practicing his craft for over 20 years and is happy to teach others how to do the craft themselves. 

What is ecotourism you might ask? 

noun

1. tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife.

In this episode, we had the opportunity to speak with guest Austin Counts from Appalachian Voices. Appalachian Voices is an organization located in Southwest Virginia that aims to reclaim abandoned lands within the region. Their goal is to claim these lands which were once used for things such as mining and turn them into clean and natural habitats once again. 

They take the time to make these areas clean, safe, and presentable for locals and SWVA visitors alike. These areas once left abandoned and isolated became used for hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and much more. 

It's a great thing that Austin and Appalachian Voices are doing. Aside from reclaiming and repurposing lands, the group also helps to educate others on how we might preserve our lands. Sticking to trails, keeping things neat and tidy, and not littering are just a few examples.

If you would like to find out more about Appalachian Voices and the current projects they are working, please feel free to visit their website at:

There is no question that the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was an important one. This Amendment gave women the right to vote. Today, we pay respects to the women who fought hard for this prestigious cause. It's hard to imagine a time when women were not treated equally as men in regards to their privilege to vote. 

Today I speak with two very special guests, Karen Hester and Jan Medeiros. Two amazing ladies who are successful both in life and in business as well as believe in their ability to vote. 

In today's episode, I had the chance to speak with Michael Gillman about the work he does at the Thomas J. Boyd Museum in Wytheville, Virginia. Michael is the Coordinator of Heritage Sites and Programs for the Wytheville Department of Museums. The Department of Museums includes three museums and a museum gift shop located in downtown Wytheville.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Thomas J. Boyd museum for a feature story on the Polio pandemic, while there I also had the chance of seeing Michael's feature exhibit on pioneer SWVA decor. I highly recommend to anyone wanting to see some great exhibits and learn about Southwest Virginia history in Wytheville, to pay these museums a visit. 

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with country music artist Ella Patrick (Momma Molasses). We have a delightful conversation about music, roots, fun stories, and life during COVID as an artist. Patrick has spent the majority of her life in the world of music. She was born and raised in North Carolina and just a couple years ago moved to Bristol, Tennesse, the Birthplace of Country Music.

With the events going on around the world today, there was little hope for live theatre performances in 2020. The Barter Theatre in Abingdon Virginia had other plans, however. An idea sparked of an outdoor theatre, perhaps at the old Moonlite Drive-In, just a couple exits down the road. This idea would become a reality, a one of a kind idea because after all, "The show must go on."

On today's Stories from Southwest Virginia podcast episode, I had the chance to speak with Terrance Jackson, a resident actor at the Barter Theatre. Terrance tells us all about this amazing idea of outdoor, drive-in theatre and how it went from just an idea to something real. Terrance is performing in both scheduled plays of The Wizard of Oz and Beauty and the Beast Jr.

It's been wonderful seeing and hearing about all the great things Terrance and the rest of the Barter Theatre actors, staff, and crew have been working on over the past few months. They have even been showcasing behind the scenes videos, where you can view backstage footage of the production, preparations, and more.

Terrance also talks to us about how the cast and crew remains safe during the pandemic. He discusses the necessary precautions and guidelines they have been utilizing to not only keep themselves safe, but also visitors to the outdoor theatre.

If you would like to find out more about the Barter Theatre, their productions, and the Moonlite Drive-In shows, you can visit:

Today I had the chance to speak with Alicia Phelps, Executive Director of the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association. We at Southwest Virginia work closely with our neighbors in Northeast Tennessee as we see no borders or state lines. Alicia has been doing some great work with Northeast Tennessee tourism for a while now and we wanted to chat with her about some amazing things to see and do in their neck of the woods. 

Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association has been around since the 1970s and over the past 40 years have done a lot to promote the wonderful features of the region. 

Everything from lakes and the great outdoors, to wonderful foods and small-town charm, Northeast Tennessee has it all. In today's episode, Alicia shares with us a few points of interest you may want to visit. We also talk about some of our favorite spots in both Northeast Tennessee as well as Southwest Virginia.

On today's episode, I had the chance to speak with Assistant Director of Tourism, Amanda Livingston about some great things going on in Abingdon, Virginia.

Like many areas in Southwest Virginia and all across the nation Abingdon has suffered from the COVID19 pandemic. As a thriving tourist town, this small community hasn't let current day struggles interrupt their stride. Creative and innovative are just two terms to describe how this community has come together to keep businesses open and the economy going.

One such creative feat is the use of the old Moonlite Drive-in theatre as a stage to perform live shows from the Barter Theatre. Since social distance is practically impossible inside the actual Barter Theatre, creative-minded members came together for the one-of-a-kind idea. Build a stage outdoors, have space for cars to park, and perform live under the stars! Not only does this allow for guests to continue being able to enjoy Barter Theatre performances, but also to once again re-live childhood memories in front of the silver screen once again. 

Abingdon's local eateries were also steadfast in coming up with plans to keep their doors open and provide their wonderful meals to the town. From outdoor dining, to take out, and even some offering delivery. Some local restaurants are even taking part in the Barter Theatre event in a "Play with your food" event the town is holding. The idea is to enjoy a nice meal from a local restaurant and then go see one of the Barter plays at the Moonlite. Guests can go grab their meal and eat it while enjoying the play, sounds like a great plan! Dinner Theatre if you will!

Even though things have been limited, the spirit of the town is still alive and well. 

Abingdon has so many fun things to offer from outdoor recreation, downtown shopping, and dining, entertainment, and even self-guided tours! Rather you have never been to Abingdon before, or you're looking to go back and visit again, there's never a dull time to go. 

The Pakalachian Food truck has become a staple of the Southwest Virginia food scene. The truck in conjunction with its name makes food options that combine traditional Appalachian dishes with that of Pakistani meals. The Pakalachian is a beautiful story of love, food, and culture, between truck owners Katlin and Moshin. At first, they were not sure what big adventure they wanted to embark on. One day while driving through Rural Retreat, Virginia, the idea of The Pakalchain Food truck was born.

Katlin's background in education and Moshin's background in conservation make for a unique blend of culture, awareness, family, and love. They both strive to give back to the local economy by purchasing fresh products and ingredients for their truck locally at farmers' markets. They also believe in maintaining conservation efforts by providing biodegradable supplies and never purchasing more than what they need. Their idea of always purchasing just enough, but never too much is something we could all live by.

In today's podcast episode, we talk about all things Pakalachian from the name to the artwork, and of course those delicious dishes you can order!

To keep up to date with the Pakalachian, please visit their website at:

Today's episode we take a delicious dive into the story behind Greeko's Grill and Cafe in Abingdon, Virginia. I had the pleasure of speaking with the owner and chef Mustafa about how Greeko's got its start in Abingdon. Mustafa was a pleasure to speak with and you can tell he truly has a love and passion for what he does. 

Greeko's features a full Greek menu complete with items such as salads, soups, pasta, pitas, and gyros. 

Mustafa tells us about his cooking adventures from all over the world in places like Egypt, New York City, London, and finally finding a permanent home in Abingdon. The recipes at Greeko's are a collection of meals from Mustafa's Greek grandmother, with some modifications from his learnings around the world. Mustafa believes in a passion for what he does and ensures there is love in every bite of his food.

Greeko's is located in the historic downtown district of Abingdon, Virginia. They currently offer both dine-in and carry out with a convenient drive-through window. On Greeko's website, you can find a complete menu, online ordering as well as history and more information about Mustafa, Greeko's, and fresh ingredients. 

To find out more about Greeko's or place an order today, please visit their website at:

In today's episode, I am joined by Beth Ford and Julie Steel representing the Reynolds Homestead in Patrick County, Virginia. The Reynolds Homestead is an Outreach Campus Center of Virginia Tech housing both a community outreach center and a forestry research center. The homestead is the birthplace of both R.J. and A.D. Reynold. 

This year, the homestead is celebrating it's 50th year anniversary, although festivities have been moved to the 2021 season due the current pandemic. 

Join me in talking with Beth Ford as we dive into the history and origins of the homestead as well as how she keeps the history alive through online videos, living history events, historical markers, and other learning. 

I also speak with Julie Steel about current events, plans, and some of the offerings the Reynolds Homestead currently showcases to the community.

For more information on the Reynolds Homestead, be sure to visit their website and stay up to date with their Facebook page.

In today's episode, we wrap up our current music series with The Crooked Road Executive Director, Carrie Beck. The Crooked Road is Southwest Virginia's Musical Heritage Trail and it covers over 300 miles of music, history, community, and heritage. Carrie talks to us about things The Crooked Road has done and has in store for music in SWVA. We also cover various stories, talk about venues, and other initiatives centric around music in the region.

Today we're taking a look into Floyd County, Virginia and how it has helped shape and establish the music and heritage of Southwest Virginia. Floyd County is home to the Floyd Country Store, the Handmade music school, and County Sales. Listen in as current owner Dylan Locke tells us about these three places of interest along The Crooked Road and learn some more about Southwest Virginia musical history and heritage!

Music from today's podcast is by The Twin Creeks Stringband called "Lee Highway Blues". Twin Creeks Stringband is from Franklin County Virginia and frequently performs at the Floyd Country Store.

To find out more about The Twin Creeks Stringband and their upcoming CD including the song "Lee Highway Blues" please visit the following:

On this episode we talk with Musician and Educator Tyler Hughes about the music and dance in SWVA. We take a dive into Big Stone Gap, Virginia and learn about the history, culture, and story telling aspects of SWVA music.