SWVA Podcast

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....

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...

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...

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. If you would like to learn more about Henri and his work, be sure to view his website here. If you...

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...

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...

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   To learn more...

This week on the podcast, I spoke with Micah Davidson of Midwood Entertainment about music and events in Southwest Virginia. Micah and I went into detail about his role at events at the Harvester (A Crooked Road Venue) and his involvement with the annual Bristol Rythm and Roots Reunion. We shared stories of music and our childhood, the history of music and SWVA, and laughs about our graying hair. To learn more about Micah and his organization, Midwood Entertainment, be sure to check out...

In today's episode, we had the opportunity to speak with Helen at Wolf Hills Coffee in Abingdon, Virginia. A great little local coffee shop, unlike any other out there. Aside from enjoying the traditional offerings like coffee and cafe items, you can also find great local tea and hard cider. Wolf Hills Coffee shares space with Tumbling Creek Cider and Appalachian Teas and Botanicals. This wonderful little shop is also a great spot to do some remote work, homework for college...

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...