The Talking Appalachian Podcast
Talking Appalachian is a podcast about the Appalachian Mountain region's language or "voiceplaces," cultures, and communities. The podcast is hosted by Dr. Amy Clark, a Professor of Communication Studies and Director of the Center for Appalachian Studies at the University of Virginia's College at Wise. The podcast is based on her 2013 co-edited book Talking Appalachian: Voice, Identity, and Community. Her writing on Appalachia has appeared in the New York Times, Oxford American Magazine, Salon.com, on NPR, and Harvard University Press blog. She is also founder and director of the Appalachian Writing Project, which serves teachers, students, and the communities of the central Appalachian region.
The Talking Appalachian Podcast
The Myth of Isolation in Appalachia
What did you think of this episode?
We know modern Appalachia isn't isolated, so why do people keep using that word to describe a region that includes 13 states and 25 million people? This episode is a commentary on the origins of isolation (the word and the concept), how that perception became grounded over the years, why it couldn't be more untrue, and how words can have the power to change the resources allocated to Appalachian parts of our states.
Then, I'll tell you about one of my favorite historic places to stay, just along the Appalachian corridor.
Sources: ARC.gov, National Geographic, Blackburn Inn and Conference Center
Documentary mentioned in the episode: The Teacher Exodus
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Talking Appalachian Podcast | Covering the Appalachian Region from North to South | Patreon
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Unless another artist is featured, acoustic music on most episodes: "Steam Train" written by Elizabeth Cotten and performed by Landon Spain