Shows
West Virginia WeekFlash Flood Recovery Efforts And Protesting Possible Medicaid Cuts, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the latest on devastating floods in the Mountain State – and recovery efforts. We’ll tell you about protests over proposed Medicaid cuts – what those who could be affected have to say to West Virginia lawmaker. Also, a year after the Mountain Valley Pipeline began transporting gas, what nearby residents have to say. Annnnd, the steel plant that aims to create hundreds of new jobs – and where all those people will live.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only...2025-06-2800 minWest Virginia WeekFlood Recovery Efforts And Protesting Possible Medicaid Cuts, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we have the latest on devastating floods to hit two counties in the northern part of the state. We’ll also talk about West Virginians' efforts to halt Medicaid cuts.
Also, we learn about reviving Black coal camps in McDowell County — through farming. And, Juneteenth celebrations across the state — some hope to see change in future years.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's p...2025-06-2100 minWest Virginia WeekClean Energy Tax Credits, Gambling Addiction Recovery And A New Theater Production, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Congress may soon eliminate tax credits for clean energy projects, which would place hundreds of millions of dollars in investments in West Virginia at risk. We hear from a former state official who opposes the proposed legislation.
In this episode, we’ll also dive deeper into our discussion on problem gambling in the state, and hear about the path to recovery from gambling addiction, and learn about a new play regarding immigration and identity in West Virginia.
Jack Walker is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Ja...2025-06-1400 minWest Virginia WeekCelebrating A New Pope And The Taste Of Mothman, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, West Virginia Catholics celebrate the announcement of a new pope. We’ll tell you about an effort to save more pets in West Virginia.
Also, a West Virginia doctor credited with saving athletes from serious injury to be honored in the halls that first welcomed his grandparents to America.
Annnnd, Mothman gets his own West Virginia-made potato chip. But what does it taste like?
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that exp...2025-05-1000 minWest Virginia WeekFederal Funding Cuts Prompt Instability And Morgantown Finalizes Its Camping Ban, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the federal government continues to announce funding cuts to programs like Americorps, but Sen. Shelley Moore Capito said she is working toward reinstating some federal workers in Morgantown.
Also, Governor Patrick Morrisey signed more bills into law, including one requiring a photo ID to vote in West Virginia. Finally, the city of Morgantown has joined a growing list of communities in West Virginia to ban camping on public property.
Emily Rice is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a w...2025-05-0300 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastAlex Weld: Generation West Virginia Today’s podcast features Alex Weld, Executive Director of Generation West Virginia Alex leads a team dedicated to empowering young professionals and building a stronger, more connected workforce across the Mountain State. We’ll explore Generation West Virginia's mission, their innovative programs, and their upcoming Pathways to Progress conference on May 8 in Charleston, WV. This inaugural, solutions-driven event is designed to help employers and young professionals navigate workforce challenges and opportunities in West Virginia. Find out more at: generationwv.org/pathways-to-progress Don’t miss this conversation about purpose-driven leadership, innovative workforce solutions, and why the future of West Virginia is bright. 2025-05-0136 minWest Virginia WeekLaws Signed, Protests Held And A Rising Black Poet This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, there were several protests across the state including one aimed at federal cuts and another at federal immigration efforts. A new law aims to cut back on dangerous drugs on the streets of West Virginia. We’ll take a look at how one plant can help combat the poisonous effects of another – and where to find it in the wild. And, a rising Black poet finds his voice in Appalachia.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podca...2025-04-2600 minWest Virginia WeekAn Eastern Panhandle Artist, The Music Hall Of Fame, And Lawmakers Go Home, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll visit with an Eastern Panhandle artist.
We’ll find out who joined the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame. We’ll also talk to a federal worker whose job was cut.
We’ll catch our breath after the end of the 2025 regular legislative session.
We’ll also hear about esports, school discipline and the return of a cycling competition to Charleston.
Curtis Tate is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores...2025-04-1900 minWest Virginia WeekEducation Legislation, A Statewide Camping Ban And Budget Bills, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, as the legislative session winds down, both chambers are working to pass a balanced budget and come up with a final product both sides will agree to.
We’ll also hear about issues the coal industry is facing, at home and abroad.
Meanwhile, several cities across West Virginia have implemented bans designed to prevent homeless people from sleeping in public spaces. Now, a bill to ban so-called camping statewide is making its way through the legislature.
We also discuss education-related topics in front of the legislature – from teacher pay t...2025-04-0500 minWest Virginia WeekAppalachian Mardi Gras, Pet Procedure Subsidies And Women’s Representation In US Narratives, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Old Man Winter has departed for now — perhaps because his effigy was burned last week in Helvetia’s annual Fasnacht celebration. We’ll travel to the remote Swiss enclave in Randolph County, where preserving history means participating in a localized Mardi Gras tradition.
Plus, West Virginia lawmakers are considering expanding access to spay and neuter subsidies for the state’s cats and dogs. We visit an animal shelter in Berkeley County, plus the Capitol Rotunda to learn more.
Also in this episode, we discuss the exclusion of women from U.S. histo...2025-03-1500 minWest Virginia WeekFederal Cuts Protest, Debate Over Arming Teachers, And Searching For The Next Cryptid, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we hear from West Virginians protesting federal cuts to staffing and funds. Plus, we’ll look at legislation to arm teachers in classrooms across the state and have reaction to the dismissal of a long-standing lawsuit against West Virginia’s child welfare system, and if you have a cryptid story to share, the West Virginia Folklife Center wants to hear from you!
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the...2025-03-0800 minWest Virginia WeekA Legislative District In Turmoil, Flood Recovery And Substance Abuse Prevention, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll learn more from two experts about Certificate of Need and why state lawmakers want to change it.
We’ll hear from the state’s new director of substance abuse prevention and recovery. We’ll also visit a legislative district that’s been thrown into chaos.
We’ll get an update on the flood recovery in southern West Virginia. We’ll also hear about beekeepers, a preservation district and a surface mine.
Curtis Tate is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virgini...2025-02-2200 minWest Virginia Week2025 Legislative Session Kicks Off With Early Look At Budget And Vaccines, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we hear from Gov. Patrick Morrisey about his plans for the state. We’ll also have the minority response to his first State of the State address.
Plus, the debate begins over vaccine exemptions and whether parents should be allowed to decide that their kids can skip a long list of vaccines. We hear about new penalties on a coal company owned by Sen. Jim Justice, and a new program to help childcare businesses in West Virginia get off the ground.
Also in this episode, a new state position: Director of A...2025-02-1500 minWest Virginia WeekHostage Release, Homelessness Data And Affrilachian Heritage, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we hear from Charleston resident Steve Logan, whose world was turned upside down last year by the news that his son Aaron had been imprisoned in Venezuela. But things changed for the better when a presidential envoy took on the case.
Plus, homelessness is on the rise in much of the Mountain State, while elected officials consider passing bans on camping and panhandling. We discuss challenges facing a low-barrier housing shelter in Huntington, and grassroots data collection efforts that offer a glimpse into statewide homelessness trends.
Also in this episode...2025-02-0800 minWest Virginia WeekExecutive Orders, Cold Weather Safety And Capital City Resources, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, incoming administrations wasted no time making executive orders, leaving infrastructure and DEI initiatives facing uncertainty. We’ll hear about the state’s rapid decline in overdose deaths, as well as West Virginians who received presidential pardons for their part in the 2021 riot at the United States Capitol. We will also hear about resources available for the homeless in the capital city.
Emily Rice is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Moun...2025-01-2500 minWest Virginia WeekJustice’s Final Days As Governor, Winter Storms, And Remembering Jimmy Carter, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Governor Jim Justice says farewell to his time as the state’s chief executive, legislators convene for a single day and a new national report raises questions about whether Justice debts far outweigh the assets. We’ll take a look at the lasting effects of a powerful winter storm and hear from a former West Virginia lawmaker who remembers working closely with Jimmy Carter.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news...2025-01-1100 minWest Virginia WeekFrigid Temperatures, New Leaders, And A Week Long Holiday You May Want To Celebrate, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey announced some of the leaders in his incoming administration. We’ll find out about the rate of homelessness – and how West Virginia compares to the rest of the nation. We’ll take a look at the state’s coal mine fatalities in the past year and get the details on a new dinner series that focuses on what you might find in a traditional Appalachian cellar.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that expl...2025-01-0400 minWest Virginia WeekAn Earthquake, A New Attorney General And The First Lady Of Gospel, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, whoa, was that an earthquake? We’ll speak to a geologist about an earth-shaking event around Huntington. We’ll catch up with the state’s health officer as he leaves his post. And we’ll ask West Virginia’s incoming attorney general about his priorities for the office.
We’ll also hear the latest on a controversial water bottling plant proposed for Jefferson County. We’ll remember West Virginia’s first lady of gospel, and we’ll see why Google has asked to participate in a case before the West Virginia Public Service Commission...2024-12-2100 minWest Virginia WeekCaucus Chaos, Panhandle Protests And Holler Humor, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we recap a chaotic week at the State Capitol. Republican lawmakers nominated Sen. Randy Smith, R-Tucker, as president of the West Virginia Senate on Sunday.
But in a meeting of the state’s Republican caucus, conflict arose surrounding a newly elected lawmaker, incoming Del. Joseph De Soto of Berkeley County. After De Soto allegedly made death threats against his fellow delegates, the would-be legislator faces felony charges.
Meanwhile, residents of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle have turned to grassroots activism, with aims of blocking or reforming plans for a water bott...2024-12-1400 minWest Virginia WeekElection Results and Drought Conditions, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Jim Justice, the state’s two-term Republican governor, won a decisive victory in the race for the U.S. Senate in Tuesday’s general election. Patrick Morrisey, West Virginia’s three-term attorney general, won the governorship, continuing a conservative shift in state leadership.
Meanwhile, parts of West Virginia have been experiencing drought conditions, with the Department of Forestry fighting 82 wildfires in the southern coalfields this week. Also, West Virginians can apply for assistance covering home heating costs for the upcoming winter months.
Emily Rice is our host this week. Our theme...2024-11-0900 minWest Virginia WeekElection Education And A New Way To Surrender Firearms, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week we will hear about voter education, rural health care, and this year's fire season.
Jack Walker takes us to an event that gives gun owners a creative way to surrender their firearms.
Plus, we will learn how classrooms are incorporating the election into their curriculum.
Briana Heaney is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast from West Virginia Public Broadcasting that looks back at the major news of the week. This podcast features rotating hosts...2024-10-2600 minWest Virginia WeekA Second Special Session, Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath and Repurposed Power Plants, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we start with the legislature’s second special session of the year. The Governor’s original call for this special session prioritized childcare tax credits and cutting the income tax by 5 percent, but once lawmakers gaveled in, discussions quickly devolved.
Statehouse Reporter, Caelan Bailey will tell us about one measure on nuclear regulations that passed with the smallest margin of 73 yeas out of 91 votes cast.
Plus, we’ll hear about the devastation in the southeast from Hurricane Helene and how West Virginia’s National Guard will help recovery efforts.
Also...2024-10-0500 minWest Virginia WeekActing Anecdotes, Declining Overdoses And Child Care Chaos, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we look back at the life of renowned actor James Earl Jones, who died this month at age 93. Jones was a cast member in the 1987 John Sayles film “Matewan,” shot in Thurmond, West Virginia.
Reporter Curtis Tate spoke to David Wohl, who invited Jones to speak to his acting class at West Virginia State University decades before his passing.
Plus, we’ll hear some good news about the overdose rate from public health issues, concerns over how to address a growing child care crisis and the latest on keeping students focuse...2024-09-2800 minWest Virginia WeekAnother Special Session Is Called, A Popular Food Benefits Program Gets Paused And Addressing Hunger In The State, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll tell you about a very popular nutrition assistance program at local farmers’ markets that has been temporarily paused because of a lack of funding.
Plus, Gov. Jim Justice formally calls a special session of the legislature, and lawmakers discuss what they want to accomplish.
We’ll also hear a conversation with the director of a local food bank about hunger in West Virginia.
Also, we have stories on efforts to address mental health issues in the state’s military veteran community, rate hikes at one power utility com...2024-09-1400 minWest Virginia WeekPost Office Plans, Getting Buzzed And The State’s Latest Camping Ban This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, that buzz you keep hearing is not your imagination. We’ll tell you why our mosquito population is flourishing.
Plus that controversial Charleston post office move? It’s off.
And we’ll also take a look at the latest decision to ban camping in a West Virginia city – and what homeless advocates have to say about it.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain...2024-09-0700 minWest Virginia WeekGreenbrier Off The Auction Block, An HIV Mystery And A Camping Ban That Targets The Homeless This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll hear from Governor Jim Justice about efforts to auction off his Greenbrier Resort – and what he says is behind it all.
Plus, why health officials worry that HIV infections in rural West Virginia are going undetected – and spreading.
We’ll also take a look at a proposed camping ban some say targets the homeless in Morgantown.
Maria Young is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountai...2024-08-2400 minWest Virginia WeekJon McBride, A World War II Veteran And Drought-Resistant Farming, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we look back at the life of Jon McBride, the first astronaut from West Virginia to travel to space.
Plus, we hear about the life of Private First Class Mose Vance of McDowell County. At age 21, the West Virginia native died in action during World War II. Eighty years later, he’s finally receiving a proper burial.
We’ll also dive into drought-resistant farming tips and the state of West Virginia’s Hope Scholarship.
Jack Walker is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
2024-08-1100 minWest Virginia WeekNative American History, Navigating The Drought And A Look At A Local HIV Outbreak This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we hear the traditional sounds of indigenous cultures as a West Virginia museum explores local Native American history.
We talk to a dietician about navigating food and diet information on social media and speak with farmers in the Eastern Panhandle as they navigate an ongoing drought.
We also hear about Charleston’s HIV outbreak in the first installment of a joint series between West Virginia Public Broadcasting and the Global Health Reporting Center, supported by the Pulitzer Center.
Chris Schulz is our host this week. Our theme music is by...2024-08-0400 minWest Virginia WeekConserving W.Va. History, Joining A Silent Book Club And Celebrating Tourism, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we spend some time in the Eastern Panhandle and learn about a new Battlefield Park, hear from a Harpers Ferry author and explore the unknown future of the John Brown Wax Museum.
We also travel to Morgantown to experience a Silent Book Club, and then south to Logan County to check out the hopes riding on the inaugural Governor’s School for Tourism.
In other news this week, we learn the latest on the health of the coal industry in West Virginia, check in on a campaign to improve foster car...2024-07-1300 minWest Virginia WeekA Budget Surplus, A Coming Special Session And COVID-19 Cases Rise, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Gov. Jim Justice made multiple announcements during a Monday event. The governor said West Virginia residents could soon see their income taxes go down further because the state collected $826 million more in revenue than had been budgeted for this fiscal year.
Justice also said he plans to call another special session of the state’s legislature in the coming months to cut an additional 5 percent from the state’s personal income tax and pass a childcare tax credit.
Plus, we’ll hear about the expansion of the Hope Scholarship and how We...2024-07-0600 minWest Virginia WeekA Capitol Mural Controversy, Chronic Absenteeism And Two Years Post-Roe, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we mark two years since the United States Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which protected access to abortion nationally. We discuss what women are doing now.
This week also marked the 50-year anniversary of a heated debate over whether the Kanawha County Board of Education should adopt new, multicultural language arts textbooks. Trey Kay, host of West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s podcast Us & Them, reflects on the controversy and his journey reporting on it.
Plus, we’ll hear about concerns over an unexpected figure popping up in a mural at t...2024-06-2900 minWest Virginia WeekThe Mountain Valley Pipeline, Child Protective Services, Rural Libraries And Fire Safety, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll look at fire safety in the summer months. We’ll also hear about the launch of the Mountain Valley Pipeline, and we’ll talk to the President of the National Library Association about Rural Libraries.
We’ll also discuss what it's like for a child caught up in West Virginia's Child Protective Services system, a governmental agency facing increasing scrutiny.
Briana Heaney is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week’s biggest ne...2024-06-1500 minWest Virginia WeekBlack Pride, Summer At The Gorge, Silica Dust And Opioid Money, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we’ll look at Black LGBTQ Pride in West Virginia. We’ll also hear how a federal agency regulates the nation’s pipelines and we’ll talk to a national park ranger about summer activities at the New River Gorge.
We’ll also discuss new rules to prevent black lung disease, a new role for the state’s solicitor general and how the state’s opioid settlement money will be spent.
Curtis Tate is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only...2024-06-0800 minWest Virginia WeekManchin Drops Democratic Party And Patient Sues Hospital For Abuse, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, longtime Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin has officially changed political affiliations, registering as an independent on Friday.
We’ll look into his decision, plus the sudden departure of the watchdog for West Virginia’s foster care system and a lawsuit filed against a state hospital over allegations of physical abuse.
We’ll also discuss efforts to preserve historic Black churches from Harpers Ferry to Charleston, and the rise of solar energy across the Mountain State.
Jack Walker is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
2024-06-0100 minWest Virginia WeekLawmakers Return To The Capitol, A Child Neglect Case And Pipeline Safety, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, lawmakers returned to the capitol for interim committee meetings and a special session of the West Virginia Legislature. We’ll talk about some of the policy decisions lawmakers made.
Plus, we’ll look at updates on the Mountain Valley Pipeline, the latest news for a Charleston postal facility and a case of neglect that led to the death of a Boone County teenager. Finally, we’ll dive into a West Virginia bike race, and we'll learn how funding changes are affecting housing shelters across the Mountain State.
Jack Walker is our ho...2024-05-2500 minWest Virginia WeekThe Primary Election, Raw Milk And Child Nutrition, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, West Virginians went to the polls for primaries to decide some national and local issues. We’ll talk about the results of some of Tuesday’s elections and hear from some voters.
We’ll dive into the soon-to-be legal raw milk trade. West Virginians will be able to purchase raw milk, as long as it is properly labeled. But that might come with a risk.
We’ll also learn about a demonstration at West Virginia University (WVU) calling for the university to disclose investments in and ultimately divest from Israel over the wa...2024-05-1800 minWest Virginia WeekRivers, Manchin’s Successor, Firing Up A Gas Pipeline And New Power Plant Rules, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, Earth Day was Monday. We’ll hear from a hydrologist about the state’s rivers. We’ll learn more about why two leading candidates for governor are trading accusations in ads over transgender youth. And we’ll visit a community in southern West Virginia affected by contaminated water.
We’ll also talk about what’s next for opponents of new federal power plant rules. We’ll find out who Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., has endorsed to be his successor in the Senate. And we’ll learn when a long-delayed controversial natural gas pipeline pro...2024-04-2700 minWest Virginia WeekSawmills, Storm Fund Squabbles And The Solar Eclipse, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, West Virginia residents were united by Monday’s solar eclipse, spreading out across college campuses and community parks to observe the astronomical event.
Meanwhile, decision-making over last week’s storms has proven more divisive among state officials.
We’ll dive into these topics, plus changes to a pair of West Virginia sawmills, how Muslim residents celebrated the end of Ramadan, and the much-anticipated return of the American chestnut to Appalachia.
Jack Walker is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week i...2024-04-1300 minWest Virginia WeekThe Governor’s Signed And Vetoed Bills, COVID-19 Impacts And The Race For U.S. Senate, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the deadline for the governor to sign or veto bills from the state legislature’s regular session before they automatically become law was this week, and WVPB looked at what did and didn’t get the governor’s signature.
We continue our series looking back at the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on retail and outdoor recreation four years after its start.
We also take a look at the Republican primary race for a U.S. Senate seat, as well as updates from the state police on investigations into sexual miscon...2024-03-3000 minWest Virginia WeekPotholes, Solar Panels, COVID-19 Lessons And Sleeping Babies, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, spring has sprung! We’ll look at patching potholes, how babies learn to sleep and what’s changed in health care four years since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Plus, we’ll discuss the largest single renewable power project in the state, a lawsuit filed by environmental groups against the U.S. EPA, new developments in an opioid court case and a dispute between creditors of Gov. Jim Justice.
Finally, we’ll hear what two experts have to say about President Joe Biden’s pause on new permits for liquefied natural gas (LNG) expor...2024-03-2300 minWest Virginia WeekBabies, Beavers And A Special Session At The Capitol, This West Virginia Week
Another year's legislative session is now behind us, but news of a special session this spring means the West Virginia Legislature won’t be gone for long.
In the meantime, we’ll dive into stories on education, including stories on a new study on special education and a group of West Virginia principals visiting the United States Capitol.
Plus, we’ll discuss potential expansions to passenger train services, protections for residents with Long COVID and the return of the beaver to Appalachia.
Finally, we’ll listen to the first installment of a new series o...2024-03-1600 minWest Virginia Week2024 State Legislative Session Nears Its Close, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the 2024 West Virginia Legislative session is wrapping up. Saturday, March 9 is the final day state lawmakers can consider bills during this regular session. We bring you conversations with members of the House of Delegates and Senate who look back at the last 60 days — and ahead.
We also bring you conversations from our new student reporter program, and we hear from our statehouse reporters who share what they’ve been watching this session.
Finally, we’ll hear from a professor who helps us understand our vaccination laws in West Virginia.
Liz...2024-03-0900 minWest Virginia WeekPotential Kroger Strike, Southern Coal And Artificial Intelligence, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the state legislature began winding down its 2024 session. Wednesday marked the last day for new bills to pass out of their chamber of origin, and now both the House and Senate are voting on bills proposed by their colleagues across the rotunda.
We talked to lawmakers about some bills that were passed this week, like a contentious proposal to remove vaccine mandates in some West Virginia schools, and a bill addressing potential risks tied to artificial intelligence (AI).
Plus, we’ll discuss a possible strike at a major grocery chain, a...2024-03-0200 minWest Virginia WeekThe Postal Service, The Legislative Auditor, Fossils And Statues, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the state legislature got to work as the session drew closer to its final stretch. Lawmakers talked about home schooling, raw milk, keeping youth safe online, allowing 14-year-olds to work, and creating a lasting monument to one of the state’s most beloved figures, war hero Woody Williams.
We’ll also hear about the United States Postal Service’s proposed changes to mail processing, what the legislative auditor’s office does, and finally, we’ll talk to a Marshall University professor who studies fossils.
Curtis Tate is our host this week. Our t...2024-02-2400 minWest Virginia WeekLaw And Order, Child Care Access And A Women’s Bill Of Rights, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the state legislature had Child Care Advocacy Day, centering on an issue leaders flagged as a top priority at the start of the session. But with the session more than halfway through, action still remains to be seen.
We also hear about law and order issues facing the state, a bill that narrows definitions of gender, as well as updates on Corridor H and the loss of manufacturing jobs in the Northern Panhandle.
Chris Schulz is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West V...2024-02-1700 minWest Virginia WeekAir Monitoring, Trans Rights And Babydog, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we are back with more coverage of the West Virginia Legislature, where bills regarding school discipline, gender identity and air monitoring continue to spark debate. We’ll revisit conversations with some of the lawmakers helming these bills.
Plus, we’ll discuss a failed Senate bill that aimed to increase border security, a debt owed by one of Gov. Jim Justice’s companies, and ongoing medical difficulties facing the governor’s bulldog, Babydog.
Jack Walker is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is...2024-02-1000 minWest Virginia WeekDrug Test Strips, Taxes, Natural Hair And Transgender Rights, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we continue our coverage of the West Virginia Legislative session with discussions from lawmakers and community stakeholders. We'll listen back to a few of our conversations with our guests on our program The Legislature Today as they discuss taxes, natural hair and trans rights.
We also hear about drug testing strips, new potato chips and the state’s broadband future.
Chris Schulz is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the...2024-02-0300 minWest Virginia WeekConversations From The State Legislature And Morgantown Welcomes Ukraine Veteran, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, the West Virginia Legislative session is in full swing, and lawmakers have been considering a number of pieces of legislation – from education, jobs, energy, hunger and more. We’ll listen back to a few of our conversations with our guests this week on our program The Legislature Today.
We also hear from a man who recently arrived in Morgantown from the front lines in Ukraine.
Liz McCormick is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the w...2024-01-2700 minWest Virginia WeekResources For Children And Looking At The Legislature, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we began with Child Advocacy Day at the Capitol where lawmakers learned about resources available to the state’s children. Also, we hear from a new survey that shows teachers are increasingly likely to leave the profession in West Virginia. And, we listen to legislative leaders discuss their thoughts on the 2024 West Virginia Legislative session.
Emily Rice is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with help fro...2024-01-2000 minWest Virginia WeekTiny Homes, The Water Crisis And The State Of The State, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we began with interim meetings of the West Virginia Legislature and then the 2024 regular session kicked off on Wednesday along with Gov. Jim Justice's final State of the State Address.
We hear about a new program to build tiny homes for kids aging out of the foster care system and a look back at the West Virginia Water Crisis. There are also stories about Appalachian Power’s request to bill customers for an extra $231 million, and we have the minority response to the governor.
News Director Eric Douglas is our host...2024-01-1300 min
The Legislature TodayPrimary Election Candidate Filing And Health-Focused New Year’s Resolutions, This West Virginia
On this West Virginia Morning, we’ve heard political campaign rhetoric for a while now, but as of Monday, West Virginia’s official candidate filing period is now underway. Candidates for local, state and federal offices can file for the May 14 Primary Election until midnight on Saturday, Jan. 27. As Randy Yohe discovered, the decision to run for political office comes with rules, responsibilities – and reflection.
Also, in this show, many people plan to start a diet as their New Year’s resolution, but studies have shown that restrictive diets have high rates of failure. Chris Schulz spoke with regi...2024-01-1000 minWest Virginia WeekImproving West Virginia Corrections, Conserving Salamanders And Accessing Dental Care, This West Virginia Week
This week on West Virginia Week we learn about improvements being made to the state’s correctional facilities. Also we learn about the issues of protecting endangered Appalachian salamanders.
We’ll also hear about barriers to dental care for West Virginians with disabilities.
And join us for a look at a century old glassblowing operation in the state.
Chris Schulz is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with...2024-01-0600 minWest Virginia WeekW.Va.’s Christmas Train, Improving Air Traffic Security And Blessing Same Sex Couples, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we learned about the latest U.S. Census and what it means for West Virginia’s population. We also heard about a big shift coming in how the country gets its electricity, and we learned about the Pope’s decision to formally give his approval for priests to bless same-sex couples.
We also discovered how students can benefit from mental and physical activities over the holidays, and we explored new research that aims to help air traffic control become safer and more reliable.
Finally, we got to experience a ride on t...2023-12-2300 min
We Have Hope55. Raising the Bar for West Virginia’s Education with Heidi TreuWe’re excited to have Heidi Treu back on the show with us today! Heidi is the co-founder and executive Director of West Virginia Academy, West Virginia's first tuition-free wraparound community school.In just its 2nd year, West Virginia Academy was announced as a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Yass Prize Award for education. The Yass Prize rewards programs that are sustainable, transformational, outstanding, and permissionless, and finalists were selected based on a rigorous assessment involving an initial application, multiple interviews, a site visit, and participation in several workshops and conferences held in Cleveland, Miami, New Y...2023-12-1932 minWest Virginia WeekTeacher Shortages, DHHR Issues, King Coal Highway And Hornyheads, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we learn about a program to alleviate teacher shortages, splitting up the Department of Health and Human Resources along with opening up a long overdue section of the King Coal Highway.
We’ll also bring you more in-depth stories on fish in central Appalachia and a look at the woman behind the Kanawha School Book Controversy.
Eric Douglas is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's prod...2023-12-1600 minWest Virginia WeekHuman Trafficking, Manchin’s Decision Not To Rerun And A Gas Outage, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we learned about human trafficking in the state.
We heard from U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., about his decision not to run again for the U.S. Senate.
We also heard from community members on the West Side in Charleston facing the natural gas outage.
Briana Heaney is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with help from Bill Lynch, Briana H...2023-12-0200 minWest Virginia WeekMental Health Needs And Retaining Government Emails, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we have a short show in light of the Thanksgiving holiday. This week, we learned about mental health needs in southern West Virginia, and we heard about efforts to keep state agency emails as lawsuit evidence.
We also have reports on the Hope Scholarship, renewable energy, conservation and a planned closure of a pharmacy.
Liz McCormick is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with h...2023-11-2500 minWest Virginia WeekDementia And The Holidays, Hope For Opioid Settlement Money And Concerning Health Trends, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we hear about some of the health challenges facing West Virginians — including lung disease, HIV/AIDS outbreaks and recovery.
We also learn how to meet the challenges of the holidays with aging family members.
Chris Schulz is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with help from Bill Lynch, Briana Heaney, Caroline MacGregor, Chris Schulz, Curtis Tate, Emily Rice, Eric Douglas, Liz McCormick, and Randy Yo...2023-11-1800 minWest Virginia WeekManchin Isn’t Seeking Reelection And WVPB Remembers Woody Williams In New Documentary, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., announced Thursday he will not seek reelection to the United States Senate.
Also this week, state agencies partnered with the FBI to conduct antisemitism training for law enforcement, a settlement in a lawsuit alleging inhumane jailhouse treatment is pending, Breeze Airways has added a new route to its service from West Virginia’s Charleston International Yeager Airport, and the West Virginia Board of Education issued a state of emergency for Special Education Services in Hampshire County Schools.
Finally, thousands gathered at the state Ca...2023-11-1100 minWest Virginia WeekDiabetes Care, First Responder Mental Health And A Haunted Boat, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we'll hear about diabetes management and prevention. We’ll also hear about a mental health resource for first responders. We’ll hear from an author with roots in the southern coalfields. And because Halloween was this week, we’ll hear a story about a haunted boat.
Curtis Tate is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with help from Bill Lynch, Briana Heaney, Caroline MacGregor, Chris Schulz, Curtis...2023-11-0400 minWe Have Hope48. Meet Love Your School West Virginia’s New Executive Director, Buster Nicholson!We’re excited to introduce today’s guest, Love Your School West Virginia’s new Executive Director, Buster Nicholson! Buster has worked in the public school system as a teacher and administrator. He had his own tutoring center, and he & his wife of 33 years homeschooled their children from 1998-2021.In today’s episode, we dive into Buster’s past, discuss his hopes for the school choice movement in West Virginia, and his dreams for Love Your School WV’s future.Buster brings vast experience & knowledge to our team, and we can’t wait...2023-10-3136 minWest Virginia WeekVaccines, Bus Drivers And Pumpkins, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, we heard about education in the state - from the bus driver shortage, to how a new West Virginia law is helping child literacy. We heard from author Jayne Anne Phillips about her latest novel.
We talked to health officials in the state and learned how and where to get vaccines. And we visited the Kenova Pumpkin House as it gets ready for its five night Halloween celebration.
Briana Heaney is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert.
West Virginia Week is a web-only p...2023-10-2800 minWest Virginia WeekChildren’s Health And Education, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, October interim meetings of the West Virginia Legislature kicked off in Charleston. Children’s health and education continue to be in the spotlight with state leaders discussing everything from school discipline to childhood literacy. And we have more on the conditions inside West Virginia jails and prisons.
Also, thrill seekers from across the world are gathering at the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville for the annual Bridge Day event this weekend.
And we hear how the end of pandemic-era benefits will affect child care costs and quality, the Black In...2023-10-2100 minWest Virginia WeekFriends Across The Political Divide And Keeping The Nations Voter Rolls Clean, This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, mental health continues to be in the spotlight with federal funds set aside to help finance multiple West Virginia programs. We’ll also hear statistics from the recent mass distribution of the lifesaving Naloxone drug. And, more on West Virginia University and how faculty and students continue to grapple with widespread funding cuts.
There's also good news for customers of Mountaineer Gas who can expect to see lower bills, and there's new efforts to expand green technology in the state.
We’ll also hear feature stories about science fiction and technol...2023-10-1400 minWest Virginia WeekKayaks, Art And Dogs, Oh My! This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, with a possible government shutdown looming, we learned how it might affect West Virginians.
We also learned about plants that can thrive in former mine lands, we kayaked along the Gauley River, we learned about an art exhibit inspired by recent cuts at West Virginia University, and we saw dogs fly from Charleston to Michigan to reach their forever homes.
We also remembered longtime state legislator Chuck Romine, who passed away this week at 87.
Liz McCormick is our host this week. Our theme music is by Matt Jackfert. 2023-09-3000 minWest Virginia WeekStories Of Abortion Deserts, Floods, WVU And 9/11 On This West Virginia Week
On this West Virginia Week, our news coverage was dominated by stories from West Virginia’s legislative interim meetings at the beginning of the week and the West Virginia University (WVU) Board of Governors at the end.
We also remembered where we were and how it felt on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
There were several other stories as well, including two more installments in our "Help Wanted" series about workforce issues in the state.
News Director Eric Douglas is our host this week.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that...2023-09-1600 minWest Virginia WeekIntroducing The West Virginia Week Podcast
On this West Virginia Week, we look at four leading Republican candidates for governor, severe flooding from rains on Monday and Tuesday and the ongoing battle at West Virginia University over which faculty members to keep — including university president Gordon Gee.
News Director Eric Douglas is our host this week.
West Virginia Week is a web-only podcast that explores the week's biggest news in the Mountain State. It's produced with help from Bill Lynch, Briana Heaney, Caroline MacGregor, Chris Schultz, Curtis Tate, Emily Rice, Eric Douglas, Liz McCormick, and Randy Yohe.
Learn more ab...2023-09-0200 minWe Have Hope36. A Look Inside West Virginia Academy: West Virginia’s First Public Charter SchoolIn today’s episode, we are sitting down with Heidi Treu, executive director and founder of West Virginia Academy. West Virginia Academy is West Virginia’s first charter school.After moving to West Virginia, Heidi & her husband started their children in public school. One year into their public education, it was apparent to the parents that their children were not thriving in this environment. The Treu’s made the decision to pull their children from public school and homeschool them. After a year of homeschool, they decided to give public school another chance, and once again w...2023-05-0243 minWe Have Hope34. Reclaiming Our Children’s Future with West Virginia State Treasurer Riley MooreToday on the show, we have special guest West Virginia State Treasurer Riley Moore. Treasurer Moore started out as a welder maintaining mining equipment. He worked his way through college, and went on to work on Capitol Hill on the House Foreign Affairs Committee as a National Security Advisor. Eventually, he left government and worked in the private sector defense industry. After some time, Treasurer Moore felt the pull to public service, moved back to West Virginia, and was elected State Treasurer in 2021.In today’s episode, we are discussing different savings plans and programs with Treasurer Mo...2023-04-1835 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastWest Virginia Virtual Academy: Personalized Approach to EducationThis week we are featuring Doug Cipoletti, Executive Director of West Virginia Virtual Academy. West Virginia Virtual Academy (WVVA) is a tuition-free online public school serving grades K–11. They are dedicated to inspiring and empowering students through an education experience tailored to each child's needs. For more information visit: https://wvva.k12.com/ Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV | West Virginia Department of Commerce | Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia2023-04-0632 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastDevil's Due Distillery: The Spirit of West VirginiaThis week we spoke with Wylie McDade of Devil's Due Distillery. Devil's Due is an up and coming West Virginia Distillery focussing on West Virginia Bourbon, Whiskey and other distilled spirits. They are the 'Spirit of West Virginia" and proud to represent the state in fine distilled spirits. Devil's Due Distillery: https://www.facebook.com/DevilsDueDistillery Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virignia | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV | West Virginia Department of Commerce2023-02-0243 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastBest of 2022: High Mark West Virginia - Keeping Health the PriorityFor the remainder of the year we're bringing you a few of our most popular episodes from this past year. Please enjoy our previous interview with James L. Fawcett, president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia. Sponsored by: Huntington National Bank | Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV2022-12-2949 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastBest of 2022: Swilled Dog - Female Powered BrandFor the remainder of the year we're bringing you a few of our most popular episodes from this past year. Please enjoy our previous interview with Brooke Glover is the CEO & Co-Founder of Swilled Dog, a distillery and cidery based out of Pendleton County, West Virginia. Watch the previously recorded version here: https://www.facebook.com/positivelywv/videos/3350482301851250 Swilled Dog: https://www.swilleddog.com/ Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Highmark West Virginia | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV | West Virginia Department of Commerce2022-12-2245 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastPositively WV Best of 2022: Huntington Bank - Making a DifferenceFor the remainder of the year we're bringing you a few of our most popular episodes from this past year. Please enjoy our previous interview with Chad Prather is president of Huntington National Bank’s West Virginia Region. Watch the previously recorded version here: https://www.facebook.com/positivelywv/videos/1112690355996362 Huntington Bank: https://www.huntington.com/ Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Highmark West Virginia | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV | West Virginia Department of Commerce2022-12-1545 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastHorizon Medical Technologies: Assisting Employers Maintain a High Level of IntegrityThis week we are speaking with Michael D. Adrian, President of Horizon Medical Technologies. Tune in to learn more about the important work Horizon Medical Technologies is doing in North Central West Virginia. For 21 years Horizon Medical Technologies has been providing unique, value-added services for all facets of a corporate employee validation services, including background investigations, pre-employment substance abuse testing, random selection services, post-accident, and reasonable cause drug testing. Horizon Medical Technologies: https://horizonmedtech.com/ Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Highmark West Virginia | Freedom Kia of Morgantown WV | West Virginia Department of Commerce2022-11-2445 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastVolunteer West Virginia: Empowering Communities and Making a DifferenceHawley Carlson is the Executive Director of Volunteer West Virginia, the state's commission on service and volunteerism. Volunteer West Virginia is a small state agency that promotes and supports AmeriCorps, disaster preparedness, and volunteerism. Hawley has a Master's of Public Administration and over 15 years in the nonprofit and government administration field. She believes in empowering communities and people to make change. You can find her on weekends in the beautiful West Virginia outdoors. Volunteer West Virginia: https://volunteer.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx Sponsored by Huntington National Bank | Highmark West Virginia | Freedom Kia...2022-11-1730 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastUmbrella Arts: Unlocking CreativityUmbrella Arts is a performing and visual arts instruction facility based in dance, movement and somatic education. Angela Dennis has an extensive catalog of career experience. She has been a staff member and guest instructor at educational dance organizations in Morgantown - spanning the state of West Virginia for over 20 years. Angela began her training at the Hochstein School of Music and Dance in Rochester, NY. Elizabeth Braithwaite is a graduate of California University of Pennsylvania with a degree in theater and a minor in business. She pursued her career in theater with various production...2022-11-0345 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastHigh Mark West Virginia: Keeping Health the Priorityames L. Fawcett is president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia, which serves approximately 300,000 members through the company’s health care benefits business as well as a comparable number of additional members through the national BlueCard® program. Based in Parkersburg, Mr. Fawcett is responsible for all West Virginia market functions. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia serves approximately 246,000 members through the company’s health care benefits business and hundreds of thousands of additional members through the BlueCard® program. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of West Virginia holds the largest share of the commercial market, and mo...2022-10-2749 minWe Have Hope8. Virtual Charter School In West Virginia with Rusty GrayDid you know there is a virtual charter school in West Virginia?Virtual Prep Academy of West Virginia is a tuition-free, virtual public school serving students all over West Virginia. Today on the show, we are joined by Rusty Gray, Head of School of VPA. Rusty has over 30 years of experience in education, and is excited to share information about this unique educational experience that is now available in WV.VPA utilizes virtual live class instruction, providing a distraction free environment for students to learn. Sessions are recorded, offering more flexibility in the e...2022-10-1837 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastTrilogy Innovations Inc: The Best From Right Here at HomeTECH YEAH highlights the innovative West Virginia-based companies forging a new future through technology. Join us for a highly interactive event August 23rd in Fairmont WV! TECH YEAH: https://www.techyeahconference.com/ Randy Cottle is the Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Trilogy Innovations Inc. Randy is a WV-native from Elkins, WV. Randy attended WVU where he earned his Bachelors' in Business Administration and obtained a Masters' in Software Engineering. Randy also runs a couple of non-profit organizations in Morgantown that focus on community give back: the BOPARC Foundation and the CHARLES ROBERT...2022-08-1844 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastHuntington Bank: Making a DifferenceChad Prather is president of Huntington National Bank’s West Virginia Region. Prather leads their diverse team of financial service professionals who are committed to serving consumers, businesses and communities across West Virginia. Prather joined Huntington in 2006 and has held a variety of progressive positions in business and commercial banking. He was named regional president in 2018, becoming the youngest regional president in the company’s history. Prather is active in the community - serving as a board member for Leadership WV, Mountaineer Food Bank, West Virginia Bankers Association, the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Hott Brown Foun...2022-07-1444 min
Inside AppalachiaWilliam Turner’s Book Wins Weatherford Award, And Foster Care In West Virginia Is Still Broken, As Lawmakers Fail To Pass New Legislation
The downturn of coal in Harlan County, Kentucky has led to an exodus of Black residents in search of work. This week on Inside Appalachia, we listen back to our conversation with William Turner, whose book about growing up in a vibrant Black community in eastern Kentucky just won the Weatherford Award for nonfiction from the Appalachian Studies Association.
We’ll also give another listen to a conversation we did last year with reporters with Mountain State Spotlight and GroundTruth, about West Virginia’s foster care system. We’ll hear from reporters Amelia Ferrell Knisely and Molly Born ab...2022-03-3151 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastSellaro’s Overhead Door Service: West Virginia’s Garage Door ExpertsWest Virginia's garage door expert, Anthony Sellaro, was destined for West Virginia glory. With the help of his two brothers, John and James, the three of them started Sellaro Overhead Door Service in 1986. Born in Morgantown, Sellaro holds a Bachelor of Science from West Virginia University in Personnel Management and has previous working experience in the grocery industry. The company masterfully repairs and installs residential and corporate garage doors. Heard around North Central West Virginia is that you count on Sellaro's to do the job right the first time.2022-03-3135 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastGrindstone Coffeeology: West Virginia Coffee From Down UnderAn architect by trade, Brendan Fenn, has been living out his 'happy retirement' owning and operating Grindstone Coffeeology. Fenn and his family are from a land "down under." They relocated from Australia to Huntington, West Virginia, in August of 2015. Although the move was part of his previous occupation, it didn't take Fenn long to begin pursuing his longtime dream of owning a coffee company.2022-03-1046 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastBig Timber Brewing: West Virginia’s Beer CompanyIn the heart of Appalachia is everyone’s favorite brewery. Big Timber Brewing Company, located in Elkins, West Virginia, started as a dream ––but after seven years of reality, co-founder, Ashley Kwasniewski, is still as giddy as ever. After high school, Kwasniewski, a recreationist, traveled before eventually settling in Missoula, Montana. Upon her arrival in the Montana mountains, she met her husband and eventual business partner, Matt Kwasniewski. The duo immediately got to work on their vision to operate a successful brewing company.2022-02-2436 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastWest Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League: Mountain Biking For AllCassie Smith lives in Morgantown, West Virginia, and has been an avid mountain biker for almost three decades. As the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League Director, her passion has become her vocation. The West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League is a 501(c)(3) and one of 31 other leagues across the country. Each league exists to develop youth (middle and high school) and build strong bodies, strong minds, and strong character in student-athletes.2022-02-1741 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastShine Consulting: Putting the Shine Back Into West VirginiaLaura Seybold is on a mission to recover what makes West Virginia “shine.” In 2019, she founded Shine Consulting, LLC, which focuses on developing an organization’s best asset – its people. Fascinated by Economics, Seybold obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Wright State University and an Executive MBA from West Virginia University. Equally fascinated by people, Laura spent 20 years in the talent industry working with several start-ups and Fortune 200s. She recently served as the Head of Global Talent Development at Viatris, formerly known as Mylan Pharmaceuticals.2022-02-1043 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastSilver Market Company: Proudly Made in West VirginiaIn 2015, Kelsi Boyd searched for locally sourced and cleaner alternatives to traditional Big Box soap and skincare products. Living in Mason County (WV) at the time, she either had to commute to find them or get creative. Choosing the latter, the Silver Market Company was born. Through a series of video watching and trial experimentation, Boyd began to manufacture and gift to friends and family sustainable and plant-based skincare products -- products that she is proud to say are "made in West Virginia."2022-02-0346 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastSugar Bear’s Fun Shop: West Virginia Toy Store on SugarNicole opened Sugar Bear's Fun Shop in 2019 in her hometown of White Sulphur Springs, the first of its kind in all of Greenbrier County. After 2.5 years of steady growth, the company has expanded to a storefront in the Crossroads Mall of Beckley, West Virginia. "We're like [Build-A-Bear] on sugar," laughed Bostic.2022-01-2033 min
The Positively West Virginia PodcastVertx Partners: National Security and Intelligence in West VirginiaRetired Air Force Colonel, Sean Frisbee, was on a mission to help the U.S. Air Force and the economic state of West Virginia. Last year, he founded Vertx Partners, a collaborative effort alongside Parallax Advanced Research, to support the development of science and technology innovation in Appalachia.2022-01-0643 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastRising Sun Construction: Expert Craftsmanship in West VirginiaChris Bailey is the owner of Rising Sun Construction, headquartered in Morgantown, West Virginia. Rising Sun Construction is a full-service design/build construction company with a crew of full-time employees. Chris grew up in the Charleston area of West Virginia and is an experienced master woodworker, builder and renovator of fine custom homes. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture and Design from West Virginia University. His craftsmanship has been featured in homes and galleries from Washington D.C. to West Virginia. One of his renovation projects of a historic West Virginia farmhouse is featured in the...2019-06-2734 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastWest Virginia Manufacturers Association: Manufacturing Across the StateRebecca McPhail is the president of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association located in Charleston, West Virginia. Rebecca joined the WVMA as its president in 2013. The West Virginia Manufacturers Association membership represents manufacturers across the state. Rebecca previously served as president of the State Economic Development Organization, Vision Shared. Prior to work at Vision Shared, she was the assistant vice president of development at Marshall University.2019-03-2137 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastWV Market: Made in West VirginiaParween Mascari, a native of Parkersburg, West Virginia, is an entrepreneur, attorney, adjunct professor at West Virginia University and is an administrative law judge for the state of West Virginia board of review for unemployment compensation appeals. During her time as a lobbyist, she worked closely with the legislature to help shape policy for the state of West Virginia. She also owns three retail stores; West Virginia Market that sell West Virginia made products, in Vienna and Charleston, West Virginia.2019-02-0733 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastMountain State Capital: Funding the Future of West VirginiaMike Green serves as the chairman of the West Virginia Growth Investment Fund and managing director of Mountain State Capital. In these roles, Mike provides mentorship and funding to entrepreneurs and early stage companies. He began serving on the West Virginia Board of Education in 2009 and served as the board president for a time. He is also on the West Virginia High Tech Consortium Foundation board. He earned a bachelor degree in mathematics from Boston University and a masters degree in numerical science from Johns Hopkins University. He began his career in 1969 as a mathematician, cryptanalyst and software developer...2019-01-1033 minThe Positively West Virginia PodcastAscension Recovery Services: Combating Substance Use Disorder in West VirginiaWhen Doug Leech, founder and CEO of Ascension Recovery Services and West Virginia Sober Living, formerly known as Morgantown Sober Living, needed treatment, it was evident that quality options were limited. After traveling across the country to participate in treatment, Leech recognized multiple gaps that exist for those dealing with the disease of addiction and combating substance use disorder in West Virginia. Compounding the concern of already limited access to support and resources, addiction-related complications have been on the rise in recent years. The opioid epidemic in the U.S. is a serious public health issue. Drug overdo...2018-07-1931 min
The Front PorchWhy Is West Virginia So Poor? And What Can We Do About It?When the New York Times wanted to do a 50th anniversary story on the War on Poverty, they came to McDowell County, West Virginia. "Poorest Counties Still Losing the War on Want" reads one of their headlines. On this week's Front Porch podcast, we debate how West Virginia can avoid being the poster child for poverty 50 years from now. Is it the resource curse? Lack of investment in education? Burdensome regulations and taxes? Or our own low opinion of ourselves? Welcome to “The Front Porch,” where we tackle the tough issues facing Appalachia the same way you talk with your frie...2018-04-2025 min