Forgotten America
Welcome to Forgotten America, a podcast about the many places that get flown over, driven past, or completely forgotten and the people who call these places home. In each episode, we’ll diagnose the unique challenges faced by rural America and unpack and explore the solutions to those challenges. We’ll also share the culture, stories, and perspectives of Forgotten Americans from the hilltop to the holler and the desert to the delta.
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Ep. 090: Waterfolk & the Shaping of America
01/14/2025
Ep. 090: Waterfolk & the Shaping of America
John Hood is back on the Forgotten America podcast to discuss his latest installment in the Folklore Cycle! Waterfolk takes on the formative period of American history between the 1830s and the 1850s. He shares with Garrett some of the unbelievable historical events and relationships that inspired scenes in his story. He also dives into some of the popular and lesser-known folktales and cryptids that appear throughout the novel. John and Garrett discuss the role restraints play in unleashing creativity, and we even get a sneak peek into the fourth adventure in the Folklore Cycle. Additional Resources Waterfolk: John Hood, President of the John William Pope Foundation, Episode 20: Mountain Folk Episode 48: Forest Folk and the Return of John Hood Bud Collyer – Kraken: Water Panther: Water Maidens, Welsh: . Bear Springs, New Mexico: Monongahela, Monongy 1st book favorite character: Nanyehi Nancy Ward, Cherokee woman 2nd book fav: Real Life Ichabod Crane, 3rd book fav: Sam Houston, Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Audio Editor Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 089: A Connecticut Yankee
12/18/2024
Ep. 089: A Connecticut Yankee
Andy Fowler, Communications Specialist for the Yankee Institute, joins us for an episode to discuss Connecticut! Although he wasn’t born there, his family has roots in the state that go back to the turn of the 20th century. Garrett & Andy discuss the reputation of Connecticut, its role in the colonial period and the founding of the United States, and the importance of learning about your home state’s history. They also joke about the difficulty of pinning down a defining stereotype for people from Connecticut. If you enjoy pizza, the colonial period, or Gilmore Girls, you’ll enjoy hearing about the Nutmeg State. Additional Resources: Nutmeggers: nickname for people from Connecticut Learn more about Andrew’s work at the Yankee Institute here: Hidden in the Oak: Andrew Fowler: @afowlxc on Twitter Milford, CT: Waterbury, CT: Hartford, CT: Mystic Pizza Gilmore Girls: Fairfield County: Griswold Inn in Essex: (George Washington visited there.) Silas Deane: Yale: New Haven: Yukon Huskies: Connecticut Compromise: New England: More information about the lack of county governments in Connecticut: Connecticut’s Nicknames: or Does Connecticut even have its own accent? or New Haven style pizza: The Stepford Wives: The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: oldest art museum in the US Nathan Hale: Roger Sherman: Prudence Crandall: Father Michael McGivney, Founder of the Knights of Columbus: Greenwich, CT: (one of the wealthiest places in the United States) Louis’ Lunch: Pepe’s Pizza: Lobster Rolls were actually invented in Milford, CT: Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 088: Fishing, Zydeco, Jambalaya, and the Pelican State
12/03/2024
Ep. 088: Fishing, Zydeco, Jambalaya, and the Pelican State
Clayton Rasche is a first-generation Louisianan who adores his home state. He joins Garrett on this episode of the Forgotten America podcast to share about the incredibly rich culture of Louisiana. The Pelican State has deep French roots which can be seen in everything from the architecture to the political system to the food. We learn a little bit about the differences between Cajun and Creole culture and about the variety of small and large cities to explore. If you enjoy music, soulful food, and nature, you’ll love this exploration of Louisiana through Clayton’s eyes. Additional Resources Grand Isle, Louisiana Louisiana State Symbols Zydeco music: Buckwheat Zydeco: Lana Del Rey & her husband: Parishes instead of Counties: Cajun: Creole: Some history and differences between Cajun & Creole culture and meaning: Mandeville, Louisiana: True Detective: Liz’s Where Ya At Diner: Baton Rouge: Tiki Bar in New Orleans: Beach Bum Berry’s Latitude 29: Follow Clayton on Social Media Instagram @claytonrasche Facebook /claytonrasche/ Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 087: Our Liberties We Prize: Life in the Hawkeye State
11/19/2024
Ep. 087: Our Liberties We Prize: Life in the Hawkeye State
Chris Ingstad is the President of Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation and an 8th generation Iowan. He joins the Forgotten America podcast to discuss life in Iowa. Chris explains why he hasn’t seriously considered leaving the state despite its harsh winters, and he talks about the food, culture, economy, and heritage of the Hawkeye state. Additional Resources Follow Chris’s work at Iowans for Taxpayer Relief Foundation: Grant Wood and American Gothic: University of Iowa Writer’s Workshop: Field of Dreams: “Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain.” - Iowa State Motto Okoboji, Iowa Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 086: Top Horror Films Set in Rural America
11/02/2024
Ep. 086: Top Horror Films Set in Rural America
For this Halloween Special, Lyndsey Quinlan, Digital Marketing Associate for the Cardinal Institute, and Jessica Dobrinsky, Staff Writer for the Cardinal Institute, join Garrett Ballengee to discuss horror films set in rural locations. They share their favorites and explore themes of folklore, rural horror, and hicksploitation. They also take a deep dive into what makes a good horror film and look at literary themes, the power of music and lighting in film, human psychology analyzed through film, and some history behind scary movie genres. If you enjoy horror films, and even if you don’t, you’ll enjoy this riveting discussion of top horror films set in rural America. Follow Jessica & Lyndsey Follow Jessica Dobrinsky on Twitter Follow Lyndsey Quinlan on Twitter Films Discussed Additional Resources & Mentions - film – theme/trope - genre – serial killer a.k.a. Moundsville Penitentiary - genre – Hymn – Song – film – genre – food – type of film – author – novel – genre – film – fictional book from a film – TV show – film director – actor and producer – book – genre – film technique Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 085: Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Part 2
10/29/2024
Ep. 085: Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Part 2
Emma Ayers, a native of East Tennessee and Religion & Culture Writer with the Washington Times, joins us today for the second half of our discussion of Hurricane Helene disaster recovery. She shares her perspective on the culture, economy, and people of East Tennessee and how they are responding to the unprecedented natural disaster of Hurricane Helene. She also shares a little about mule trains and other non-traditional ways that Appalachians are helping each other in their time of need. Additional Resources: East Tennessee Hurricane Helene Recovery Resources: Tennessee Disaster Recovery Map: Barstool Conservatism: Mule Trains: Social Trust: Follow Emma’s work at the Washington Times: Ways to Donate & Support: Samaritan’s Purse: Look for actual individuals who live in the area who are looking for help on the ground. Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: ,
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Ep. 084: Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Part 1
10/22/2024
Ep. 084: Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Part 1
(We had some unusual technical difficulties when recording this episode. So please forgive any choppiness that may result – we did what we could to edit it as smoothly as possible.) Brooke Medina, Vice President of Communications for the John Locke Foundation, joins Garrett Ballengee to discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene on Western North Carolina and how these Appalachian communities are responding to this unprecedented disaster. Additional Resources: John Locke Foundation: Samaritan’s Purse: Baptists on Mission: Cajun Navy: Donate to Hurricane Helene Refief: Shop to Support Relief Efforts: Carolina Journal: Hurricane Helene: Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 083: Are there any Scandinavians Lefse in Minnesota?
09/24/2024
Ep. 083: Are there any Scandinavians Lefse in Minnesota?
Shawn Peterson, President of Catholic Education Partners and long-time resident of Minnesota, joins this episode of the Forgotten America podcast to weigh in on the selection of Tim Walz as the Democratic VP nominee. He also shares about the political history of Minnesota and its cultural history and shifts. If you’re curious about the Upper Midwest and its Scandinavian roots, Garrett’s discussion with Shawn will be enlightening. Mentioned in this Episode: Red Wing boots from Minnesota Minnesota Iron Range: beautiful old towns up there that have fallen into disrepair, very hard-working salt of the earth people Norwegian Lefse Catholic Education Partners Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 082: Is Values-Based Education Still Relevant Today?
09/09/2024
Ep. 082: Is Values-Based Education Still Relevant Today?
Dr. Barker is the President of Southern Wesleyan University in South Carolina and joins us today to talk about current challenges in higher education and the importance of an education that teaches values and not just skills. Fun Fact: his home state is West Virginia, so Garrett kicks off this discussion by asking Dr. Barker about his hometown of Clarksburg. Dr. Barker shares stories about the Italian heritage of West Virginia, his time as a military chaplain, and how he came to work in higher education. If you care about the future of post-secondary education and wonder how we got to a place with such a broken system, this is an episode you’ll enjoy. Learn more about Southern Wesleyan and Dr. Barker at Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Editor Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 081: What Makes An Appalachian?
08/14/2024
Ep. 081: What Makes An Appalachian?
J.D. Vance’s selection as President Trump’s Vice-Presidential running mate has kicked up a renewed firestorm around Vance’s Appalachian bona fides and his book Hillbilly Elegy. Is he legitimately Appalachian? What does it even mean to be Appalachian? In this episode of Forgotten America, Garrett is joined by Anthony Hennen, journalist and fellow Appalachian, to discuss this Vice-Presidential pick and what it might mean for the region. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s Commentary on J.D. Vance J.D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy Follow Anthony’s Work Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Editor Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 080: Have Men Been Forgotten?
07/30/2024
Ep. 080: Have Men Been Forgotten?
Daniel Corcoran joins Forgotten America to discuss men’s issues and why he feels our modern culture is leaving men behind. Statistics across a variety of sectors show that men are struggling with mental health, criminality, friendship, overall well-being, purposelessness, and society’s perception of men. Dan & Garrett discuss these issues, how they affect men, and ways we can improve the lives of boys and men. Keep up with Dan’s work: Overcoming the Divide – YouTube Podcast Men of Tomorrow – podcast @dancorcoran28 on Instagram Some Relevant Statistics Mentioned in this Episode: 15% of men don’t have a close friend (5 fold increase since 1990) 4 times more likely to die by suicide but 10 percentage points less likely to seek help 10 Million working-age men are not working or looking for work 71% of opioid overdoses are men 80-93% of men comprise prison populations Additional Resources Mentioned: Richard Reeves: True Detective Quote: @TheTinMen Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins Stoic Philosophy Camille Paglia The Art of Manliness Jordan Peterson Jocko Willink Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Editor Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 079: What is a Hoosier?: Two Perspectives on Indiana
07/16/2024
Ep. 079: What is a Hoosier?: Two Perspectives on Indiana
Two Hoosiers join the Forgotten America podcast to discuss the differences between two very different regions of Indiana. Sarah Milligan, Assistant Director of Community Engagement for the Institute for Quality Education, and Cesar Roman, Director of Community Engagement, share about life in Hardinsburg, IN and East Chicago, IN — one a rural, southern community and the other a bustling metropolitan satellite of Illinois. It’s clear that despite very different experiences they both love their state. Join us as we learn about the history of Indiana, the variety of cultures represented, and the work Sarah & Cesar are doing to improve access to high-quality K-12 education in the Hoosier State. Hardinsburg, IN East Chicago, IN Zelle’s in East Chicago Rooster’s Hen House One of the wealthiest cities in the US Time Zones in Indianapolis Institute for Quality Education State bird: Cardinal State flower: Peonie Highest Point in Indiana: Right on the border of OH. Hoosier Hill Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Editor Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 078: A McCoy Abroad
07/02/2024
Ep. 078: A McCoy Abroad
Jacob McCoy (Jake) is from Man, West Virginia in Logan County and a Contributor to the Cardinal’s Nest Blog. He currently resides in Columbus, Ohio with his wife, son, and daughter. Jacob recently took a month-long trip to Ireland with his family. He and Garrett compare notes about their respective European travels and reflect on their homes in two different parts of West Virginia, changing accents, family history, societal trust, the migrant crisis in Ireland, and more. Man WV Athlone, Ireland Read Jake’s latest contribution to the Cardinal’s Nest Blog. Pigouvian tax: Hatfield-McCoy Feud: Aer Lingus: R756 Road: Rock of Cashel: Glendalough: Rick Steves Guide to Ireland: The Burren: High Trust v. Low Trust: Roscrea Taoiseach Limerick King John’s Castle Galway Donegal Dingle Peninsula Michelin Bib Gourmand Thyme Restaurant Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer & Editor Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 077: John Rankin: The Forgotten Founding Father of the American Abolition Movement
06/18/2024
Ep. 077: John Rankin: The Forgotten Founding Father of the American Abolition Movement
Originally from Ripley, Ohio and currently residing in Lexington, Kentucky, Caleb Franz is the Program Manager for Young Voices and the author of The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism’s Essential Founding Father. Caleb grew up in the town where John Rankin eventually died and was surrounded by stories of his role in history. He is now writing the authoritative biography on this forgotten founding father of the American abolition movement. He joins Garrett on the Forgotten America podcast to make sure we all remember this previously Forgotten American Hero. Caleb Franz’s book, The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism’s Essential Founding Father Coming Out October 15th! Follow Caleb’s work at Young Voices here: De Tocqueville on Slavery along the Ohio River Beyond the River: The Untold Story of the Heroes of the Underground Railroad Read more about John Rankin Second Great Awakening: John Rankin House John Rankin’s burial place National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Elijah Craig Bourbon: Twitter @CalebFranz Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 076: The Literary Life & Classical Education
06/04/2024
Ep. 076: The Literary Life & Classical Education
What do the French Horn, Led Zepplin, and C.S. Lewis have in common? They are all part of the Great Conversation. Dr. Junius Johnson joins the Forgotten America podcast to discuss classical education and the literary life. Dr. Johnson grew up in Louisville, KY, and shares his story of discovering the Western Canon, classical music, and Latin. This episode is a great introduction to the classical education movement taking the country by storm. If you’d like to see a little more truth, goodness, and beauty reflected in the world around you, you’ll want to listen to this episode and hear the wisdom Dr. Johnson has to share with us. And if you’re looking for a new book to add to your booklist, make sure you take notes while listening. Follow Dr. Junius Johnson’s work: OR Further Reference: The Western Cannon by Harold Bloom C.S. Lewis Mimesis - Resource for scanning Latin poetry John Dewey: William James: Children of Time Dune Garth Nix Timothy Zahn Writing history textbooks for highschoolers with Classical Academic Press: Humanitas Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 075: Reflections on Europe, Forgotten America, and the Need for a Hall of Heroes
05/21/2024
Ep. 075: Reflections on Europe, Forgotten America, and the Need for a Hall of Heroes
In this special solo episode, Garrett takes some time to reflect on recent conversations with guests of the Forgotten America podcast and his Spring vacation to Scotland & Ireland. The last few months of guests and travel have driven home the need for West Virginia to have a Hall of Heroes to celebrate its people and its past. This episode is a great reminder of the importance of loving the place you’re from and sharing your passion for it with others. Special Mentions: Edinburgh, Scottland Similarities between Scottland and Appalachia Of course, Scottland would have a history of coal mining! Adam Smith: Cliffs of Moher – Ireland Galway (Irish Nashville) The Burren Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 074: Out of the Paw Paw Patch and into the Mountains
05/07/2024
Ep. 074: Out of the Paw Paw Patch and into the Mountains
Tiffany Hoben is the Director of Education Partnerships & Strategy for the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy. She joins the Forgotten America Podcast to share her motivations for moving from the Sunshine State to the Mountain State, her passion for civics education, and her belief in the importance of feeling rooted in a local community. The Outpost: Florida Civics Standards: Comments from the Civics Alliance on the 2024 Proposed West Virginia Social Studies Standards: New River Gorge: Parrish, Florida: Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 073: Homer Hickam: From McDowell County to Rocket Boy
04/23/2024
Ep. 073: Homer Hickam: From McDowell County to Rocket Boy
Homer Hickam is a true West Virginia hero. Raised in Coalwood, a mining town in southern West Virginia, he went on to fight in the Vietnam War, work for NASA, and become a best-selling author. His book, Rocket Boys, was made into the popular movie October Sky. In this episode, he shares with Garrett stories from his life that reveal how his upbringing in West Virginia contributed to his success. Homer tells about the inspiration behind his books, expresses his love for the Appalachian mountains, and gives his thoughts about education, the importance of community, and so much more. He even gives a sneak peek into some upcoming projects that he is working on. Garrett’s conversation with Homer evokes a sense of both comforting familiarity and otherworldliness. This episode of Forgotten America will leave you in awe of how much things have changed since the 40s but also grateful for the resilience of the Mountaineer Spirit. Follow Homer’s work by visiting his website: Get a copy of his newest book, Don’t Blow Yourself Up, here: October Sky (movie adaptation of his memoir, Rocket Boys): Coalwood, WV: Buddy Ebsen: Jake Gyllenhaal: Carrying Albert Home: Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 072: Hitchhiker’s Guide to Rural America
04/09/2024
Ep. 072: Hitchhiker’s Guide to Rural America
This episode of Forgotten America opens with a brief walk down memory lane. Garrett shares how he first met Dr. Thompson at his Moral Foundations of Capitalism seminar at Clemson University. Dr. Thompson’s lecture was a catalyst moment for Garrett that led him down a career path that brought him home to run the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy, a free market think tank. Dr. Bradley Thompson was born in Canada, but he considered himself an American born in the wrong country from a young age. He tells the story of how hitchhiking through the United States was a formative experience for him and explains that he chose to explore rural America this way for two reasons: to discover America and to discover himself. This episode of the Forgotten America podcast explores the origins of Dr. Thompson’s Substack entitled Redneck Intellectual, how COVID impacted a generation of young men and women, what makes classical education unique, and the importance of fatherhood. If you enjoy thinking about the big questions of life, this episode is one that you won’t want to miss. The Well Trained Mind (online resource) C. Bradley Thompson, Professor at Clemson University and Executive Director for the Clemson Institute for the Study of Capitalism Dr. Thompson’s website: The American Mountain People: National Geographic The How and Why Book of the American Revolution The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand Fathers and Sons, American Style LocoFoco Press Twitter: @CBradleyThomps1 Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 071: Into the Wild: Life in the Mat-Su Valley of Alaska
03/26/2024
Ep. 071: Into the Wild: Life in the Mat-Su Valley of Alaska
Sarah Montalbano is the Policy Manager for the Alaska Policy Forum and a senior fellow with the Independent Women’s Forum. She was born and raised in Wasilla, AK, and her family has roots in the state from the era before Alaskan statehood. Sarah joins the Forgotten America podcast to share about the culture, natural beauty, and economic growth of the state. Garrett & Sarah discuss public policy challenges Alaska faces, art and culture, and the history of the native population as well as how Alaskans handle issues of conservation and responsible land development. Follow @SarahMontalban0 and at , , and . Additional Resources for This Episode Wasilla, Alaska: Alaska Policy Forum: Mat-Su Valley: Alaska Permanent Fund: Endless Wall Trail in West Virginia Hatcher Pass Alaska 229 federally recognized federally recognized Alaskan native villages. Alaska Federation of Natives: Alaska Native Corporations: 13 regional corporations that generate revenues and distribute them to shareholders Denali National Park: Hobo Jim State Balladeer Bus 142 from Into the Wild: Into the Wild (book): Firecracker Boys (book): Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 070: Do The Best You Can With What You’ve Got: An Agricultural Ethic for Life
03/12/2024
Ep. 070: Do The Best You Can With What You’ve Got: An Agricultural Ethic for Life
Jerry Apps is Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the author of more than 35 books. He is a storyteller and historian, joining the Forgotten America podcast to share about his life growing up on a dairy farm in rural, central Wisconsin. Born during the Great Depression, his youth inspired much of his subsequent work and his love for rural America. He joins Garrett to discuss his upcoming book, Farms & Rural Communities: An Agricultural Ethic for the Future. If you’ve ever enjoyed listening to a beloved grandparent tell stories of their childhood, you’ll particularly enjoy this episode which dives into the history of family farming and much of the forgotten history of rural life in America. Follow Jerry’s work at Purchase a copy of his new book from . Signed copies are available. Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 069: Pulling Appalachia Back from the Precipice
02/27/2024
Ep. 069: Pulling Appalachia Back from the Precipice
Nick Deiuliis is a chemical engineer, attorney, and business executive. During a career spanning 30 years, he served as the CEO or Chairman of the Board of five public energy companies. During that time, Nick has been on the front lines of the war being waged by elites against working men and women of Appalachia, the “doers” of the American economy, and the free-thinking individual. Nick is a lifelong Pittsburgher and considers himself a proud capitalist and free enterprise advocate. He joins Garrett today to discuss the city of Pittsburgh and its place among Appalachian cities, the energy industry’s role in society and the future of the region, and Nick’s book, Precipice: The Left’s Campaign to Destroy America. Nick shares about the thinkers who inspired his own personal philosophy and the path his career in the energy industry took. If you’re wondering what Appalachians can do to build a brighter future and fight back against coastal elites, you’ll want to listen to this episode of Forgotten America. Learn more about . Precipice: The Left’s Campaign to Destroy America Reason Article Mentioned: Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 068: Don’t Be Afraid To Try Something New - The Supply Side of School Choice
02/13/2024
Ep. 068: Don’t Be Afraid To Try Something New - The Supply Side of School Choice
Elyse Marcellino is the Director of Embark in Mississippi. Embark is a new schools accelerator that works with school founders to help them move from idea to doors open. They guide school founders through early planning and preparing to launch so they can successfully open new schools to serve students throughout the state. Elyse and Garrett start this episode by celebrating what West Virginia and Mississippi have in common and commiserating as residents of states that are often ridiculed by coastal elites. Elyse shares about her experience with several types of education environments growing up which inspired her to make a career in the education reform movement. Sometimes supply needs a little help meeting demand - Garrett & Elyse discuss how we can improve education options outside of state legislatures by working alongside education entrepreneurs to meet the educational needs in our communities even in rural communities. on HGTV Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 067: Can Junior Colleges Save the Future of American Higher Education?
01/30/2024
Ep. 067: Can Junior Colleges Save the Future of American Higher Education?
Fred Fransen is the President of Huntington Junior College and Co-Founder of Certell, Inc. He also previously served as Executive Director at the Center for Excellence in Higher Education and as Senior Fellow for Liberty Fund. He has been working to make breakthroughs in how to improve education at both the K-12 and higher education levels. Garrett & Fred talk about the role of junior colleges in the reformation of education in the United States, particularly about the changes Fred is making at Huntington Junior College to incorporate civics and Great Books education into the college’s programs. Fred shares about the defining role the Fall of the Berlin Wall played in his realization of how important freedom is, and how that moment led him to the University of Chicago, which underscored his future career in higher education reform and philanthropy. They also explore Fred’s time in a small town called Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Find on LinkedIn Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 066: Gratitude - A Light in Dark Times
11/28/2023
Ep. 066: Gratitude - A Light in Dark Times
Join us for a Thanksgiving-themed episode before we pause for the holidays! On Thanksgiving Eve, Garrett recorded another solo episode. He shared ten things he is grateful for this Thanksgiving. He observes how the practice of gratitude can break up the monotony of life and cut through the polarization of our day. For Garrett, remembering the good things in his life has helped him get through dark times. Gratitude is a catalyst for both joy and togetherness when both might otherwise be absent. Also, to give our team a break during this holiday season, we are going to take a pause from releasing episodes for the month of December. We all need a moment to reflect on where we have been and where we are going in the New Year. We’ll be back in January to start off 2024 with some great content! Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 065: The Role of the Rural College
11/14/2023
Ep. 065: The Role of the Rural College
Monica Moses is a policy fellow for the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy and a PhD candidate at West Virginia University. She joins Garrett today to discuss the role colleges and universities play in rural communities. She discusses how growing up in a small town near St. Bonaventure University influenced her interest in researching the role universities and colleges play in rural areas. Garrett & Monica explore the symbiotic relationship that these higher education institutions have with the communities around them and how they can help prevent brain drain. Learn more about ’s work and follow her on Twitter @MonicaaMoses. Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 064: Horror Stories, Faith, and Scary Encounters in Appalachia
10/31/2023
Ep. 064: Horror Stories, Faith, and Scary Encounters in Appalachia
Ashley Stinnett is the Communications Coordinator for Coalfield Development, he’s a co-founder of the Film Futures Foundation, a former republican candidate for the West Virginia House of Delegates, an actor, and an author. He was born and grew up in Lavalette, West Virginia and currently resides in Wayne County. Today he joins Garrett to talk about Halloween, the horror genre, and his book . Many of the stories in Ashley’s book are inspired by real events. In this episode, he shares some of the family stories that inspired his book and discusses his faith and its influence on his horror writing. Garrett & Ashley explore the value of the horror genre in film and writing and tackle the question “Is Appalachia an inherently scary place?” Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark Goosebumps books Scholastic BookFair Other Books by Ashley Stinnett: The Liberty Documents: Principles That Framed a Nation Grasping Appalachian Conservatism: How Not to Be Mistaken for a Latte Liberal The Liberty Essays: Restoring a Lost American Principle Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 063: Standing in the Gap for Kids
10/17/2023
Ep. 063: Standing in the Gap for Kids
Kim Dully has a Master’s degree in School Counseling, she is a Grassroots Coordinator with Love Your School-WV, and a co-host of the We Have Hope podcast. She has years of experience working with families and kids, particularly with recruiting and teaching foster parents in the northern panhandle of West Virginia. On today’s episode of Forgotten America, Kim shares her experience with the foster care system as a child whose siblings were in foster care in Pennsylvania and as an adult who has worked to recruit foster families in West Virginia. Her story helps to highlight the beauty that comes when one adult steps in the gap for a child and the brokenness that exists in our current foster care system. Kim Dully [email protected] We Have Hope podcast Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 062: Overlooked and Underloved
10/03/2023
Ep. 062: Overlooked and Underloved
Aaron Renn is a writer and consultant based in Indianapolis and is a co-founder and Senior Fellow at . He had a first career in management and technology consulting advising major corporations as a Partner at Accenture and a second career in urban policy as a Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. Today his focus is on helping conservatives and the American church rise to the challenge of finding success in the 21st century. Appalachia is the last physically beautiful land in America that does not have extreme climate and is affordable. The same sorts of people who are buying up land in the West will soon, and already are, turning their sights east toward Appalachia. In this episode of Forgotten America, Aaron and Garrett tackle difficult questions like the role climate plays in economic growth, how migration is impacting local communities in the region, and the major divide Aaron sees between the North and South Appalachian regions. Garrett asks what kind of progress should we want for our region and should we look to growing mountain state regions in the West for ideas to grow economically in Appalachia? Listen in to hear what Aaron thinks about the present and future of Appalachia and his citizen-centric strategy for prosperity. Stats & Terms Mentioned Idaho is the 2nd fastest growing state in the country. Appalachian Regional Commission's discussion of subregions in Appalachia. Sunbelt vs. Frostbelt Brookings Institution’s CentralApp Oktana Nate Phipp’s article about these remote companies SOAR Governing.com article on relocation incentives You can keep up with Aaron Renn by subscribing to his . Twitter: @Aaron_Renn The pieces that inspired this episode. Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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Ep. 061: Health Care in Rural America - A Perspective from Georgia
09/19/2023
Ep. 061: Health Care in Rural America - A Perspective from Georgia
Jessi Troyan, Director of Policy & Research for the Cardinal Institute, takes over the Forgotten America podcast as guest host. She interviews Chris Denson, Director of Policy & Research at the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, about health care in rural America, particularly focusing on his experiences with the healthcare system in Georgia. Prior to his time at the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, Chris served as Director of Outreach at HCA Memorial Health in Savannah, a 612-bed Level 1 trauma center serving a 32-county region in Southeast Georgia and South Carolina and as the Director of Advisory Services for Hometown Health, a multi-state rural hospital trade association based in Georgia. He shares his unique perspective on health care policy and its impacts on rural communities. Key Statistics Mentioned: 159 Counties in Georgia 82 w/o OB/GYNs 65 w/o Pediatricians 40 w/o Internal Medicine 18 w/o Family Medicine 9 with No Physicians whatsoever Certificate of Need - Heavily regulated in Georgia 50 services and facility types are regulated through CON You’re 10% more likely to have a Nurse Practitioner office in rural areas. Reports from Georgia Public Policy Foundation Georgia Public Policy Foundation: Chris Denson: Knee Center for the Study of Occupational Regulation: Garrett Ballengee, Host Executive Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Communications Director - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy Follow: , , , , Support: , ,
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