The Mountain Spirit

S11E3: Mental Health in Rural Communities w/ Andrea Brooks

May is #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth. Join us as we talk with Andrea Brooks, a counselor, educator, and leader with nearly two decades of experience shaping the future of mental health care. From her work in eastern Kentucky to national leadership roles, Andrea shares insight on counseling, advocacy, and supporting rural communities in meaningful ways. Don't miss this thoughtful and inspiring conversation. Learn more about CAP's counseling services here [https://www.christianapp.org/our-work/family-life-counseling]. If you or someone you love needs immediate help, please dial 988!

S11E2: Ancestry and Storytelling w/ Cathy Rigg

Rooted in seven generations of Appalachian lineage, author Cathy Rigg joins the podcast to talk about ancestry, storytelling, and the voices that refuse to be silenced. We explore her debut historical novel That Which Binds Us, the power of the maternal line, and why it's never too late to answer the call to write. Visit Cathy's website [https://cathyrigg.com/]. Shop Cathy's book [https://cathyrigg.com/book/].

S11E1: Exploring Art and Identity w/ Cody LeRoy Wilson

From Plum Run, West Virginia to stages across the country, actor and playwright Cody LeRoy Wilson joins the podcast to talk art, identity, and Appalachian storytelling. We dive into his groundbreaking one-man show Did My Grandfather Kill My Grandfather? and how he's reshaping what it means to be both Appalachian and Asian American. This is a powerful conversation you don't want to miss. Visit Cody's website [https://www.codyleearts.com/]. Learn more about Did My Grandfather Kill My Grandfather? [https://www.codyleearts.com/grandfather] Check out production photos [https://www.codyleearts.com/production-photos].

S10E6: Mission-Driven Leadership w/ Jennifer Stolo

On today's Season 10 finale of The Mountain Spirit Podcast, we are joined by Jennifer Stolo, CAP's new President & CEO. Previously leading major nonprofit organizations like Make-A-Wish, Jennifer's most recent work was with Robert Craig Films, where she produced award-winning films with inspirational storytelling. Jennifer brings a unique blend of mission-driven leadership and creative vision. Tune in as she shares how her background is shaping the future of CAP and its impact across Appalachia. This is a conversation you don't want to miss! Learn more about Jennifer [https://www.christianapp.org/articles/christian-appalachian-project-names-new-president-ceo]. Visit Rober Craig Films website [https://www.robertcraigfilms.com/]. Check out the award-winning film [https://www.noaddressmovie.com/] "No Address"

S10E5: Community Storytelling w/ Jessica Miles

On today's episode of The Mountain Spirit, we welcome Jessica Miles. She is deeply rooted in Appalachia, where she was born and raised. Her work centers community storytelling and uplifts women's voices across the region. Jessica led the Appalachian Media Institute at Appalshop, and now hosts her own podcast, Mountain Laurels: Women of Appalachia. Join us as Jessica shares how reclaiming our narratives can build power, belonging, and connection. Follow Jessica's podcast here [https://tr.ee/We-Dh1ofwL]. Visit her substack to read more [https://mountainlaurels.substack.com/].