https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/appalachia-matters--6194795
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>enNewsVandalia Media Partners II, LLChttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/35af8682a00f6e4214d46662bfc4c39f.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/appalachia-matters--6194795Sun, 09 Aug 2026 16:03:33 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerVandalia Media Partners II, LLCinfo@wmovfm.comAppalachia Matters is a weekly radio show highlighting life in Appalachia. Each week we have a segment on leadership from retired Major General Jim Hoyer, features highlighting agriculture in our region, health care updates from Tom Susman and our...
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/protecting-shrubs-from-deer-cletus-on-the-links-beer-from-preston-state-fair-info--73712117General Hoyer sits down with Dallas Wolfe, founder of High Ground Brewing in Terra Alta, West Virginia. Dallas is an Army veteran, member of the West Virginia National Guard, and entrepreneur. The General and Dallas share how High Ground Brewing contributes to strengthening community, tourism, and economic development in Preston County. They also explore opportunities for entrepreneurship in West Virginia and discuss the important role local business plays in building united and resilient communities.

The State Fair of West Virginia kicks off on August 13 and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture is a big part of the fair and today we will have a double Rooted in the Mountain State the first part discusses the Country Store and the second the Read Tent. Both are operated by the Ag Department. 

Many of us have had issues with the deer eating our shrubs, floors and trees. One West Virginian James Stanton of Charleston has done something about it, he created a product that repels deer and it is not poisonous. We hear form James. 

One of the funniest people on the earth is Cletus T Judd. If you listen to country music you know him if not google him.He lives near Portsmouth and he entered the West Virginia Golf Open. Michael Susman of affiliate WJEH caught up with him at the tournament.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73712117Sun, 09 Aug 2026 14:58:36 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dallas Wolfe, founder of High Ground Brewing in Terra Alta, West Virginia. Dallas is an Army veteran, member of the West Virginia National Guard, and entrepreneur. The General and...General Hoyer sits down with Dallas Wolfe, founder of High Ground Brewing in Terra Alta, West Virginia. Dallas is an Army veteran, member of the West Virginia National Guard, and entrepreneur. The General and Dallas share how High Ground Brewing contributes to strengthening community, tourism, and economic development in Preston County. They also explore opportunities for entrepreneurship in West Virginia and discuss the important role local business plays in building united and resilient communities.

The State Fair of West Virginia kicks off on August 13 and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture is a big part of the fair and today we will have a double Rooted in the Mountain State the first part discusses the Country Store and the second the Read Tent. Both are operated by the Ag Department. 

Many of us have had issues with the deer eating our shrubs, floors and trees. One West Virginian James Stanton of Charleston has done something about it, he created a product that repels deer and it is not poisonous. We hear form James. 

One of the funniest people on the earth is Cletus T Judd. If you listen to country music you know him if not google him.He lives near Portsmouth and he entered the West Virginia Golf Open. Michael Susman of affiliate WJEH caught up with him at the tournament.
]]>1793cletus,deer,landscape,shrubs,wv,wvga,wvstatefairfalse330fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-special-episode-on-wv-flood-recovery--73335977
This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer comments on the recent flooding in north-central West Virginia and re-plays a previous interview with David Lumsden, Chair of the Board of Directors for West Virginia VOAD - that's Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Then the General and Tom Susman sit down to further discuss resources available to those in need and how you might be able to help with long term recovery. 

Flood victims face many challenges and the recovery is not a week or two it can take years, and Tom Susman talks with Brad Story who is CEO of the West Virginia Behavioral Health Providers Association on safety-net mental health resources for flood victims. 

In our final interview we talk with Kent Leonhardt Commissioner of Agriculture about how this flood is impacting agriculture and what steps  impacted farmers take next. If you have garden that’s flooded you will want to listen,  because you probably will have to plow it under. 

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73335977Sun, 02 Aug 2026 12:25:24 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerMany of our listeners were impacted by the July 2026 flood especially in central west Virginia and along the Ohio River North of Parkersburg. This episode is dedicated to providing information for those impacted and those who might want to help. Flood...
This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer comments on the recent flooding in north-central West Virginia and re-plays a previous interview with David Lumsden, Chair of the Board of Directors for West Virginia VOAD - that's Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Then the General and Tom Susman sit down to further discuss resources available to those in need and how you might be able to help with long term recovery. 

Flood victims face many challenges and the recovery is not a week or two it can take years, and Tom Susman talks with Brad Story who is CEO of the West Virginia Behavioral Health Providers Association on safety-net mental health resources for flood victims. 

In our final interview we talk with Kent Leonhardt Commissioner of Agriculture about how this flood is impacting agriculture and what steps  impacted farmers take next. If you have garden that’s flooded you will want to listen,  because you probably will have to plow it under. 

]]>1790agriculture,farm,menatlhealth,recovery,wv,wvbhpa,wvflood,wvvoadfalse329fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/local-beef-civil-defense-coopers-farm-and-the-scoop-on-reverse-mortgages--73203753At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Nick Studer, an emergency physician, service member, and founding director and archivist of the National Museum of Civil Defense at Randolph Air Force Base in Randolph, Texas. Dr. Studer and the General discuss the role of civil defense in modern America, including defining civil defense and how its tenets can help shape future emergency preparedness and response efforts, including in Appalachia.

In our Rooted in the Mountain State we will play a best of report about the Coopers Farm in Points, WV in Hampshire Co. It is owned and operated by Tim and Becca Cooper and their children. 

Locally sourced food is in great demand in this country. The USDA has documented a significant growth in this area of farming and food production. Also with the recent out break of food borne illness shoppers want to know who produces their food. We will talk with a long time producer, Valley View Farms.

Some seniors are pressed for cash and one option available to them is a loan called reverse mortgages. The home owner takes out a mortgage on their house and its not due until after they die. We talk with Bo Higby who is a loan broker and he will explain what these reverse mortgages are.
Before taking out a reverse mortgage a person should do their research and make sure they understand the consequences if they go do this path.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73203753Tue, 28 Jul 2026 01:55:04 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Nick Studer, an emergency physician, service member, and founding director and archivist of the National Museum of Civil Defense at Randolph Air Force Base in Randolph, Texas. Dr....At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Nick Studer, an emergency physician, service member, and founding director and archivist of the National Museum of Civil Defense at Randolph Air Force Base in Randolph, Texas. Dr. Studer and the General discuss the role of civil defense in modern America, including defining civil defense and how its tenets can help shape future emergency preparedness and response efforts, including in Appalachia.

In our Rooted in the Mountain State we will play a best of report about the Coopers Farm in Points, WV in Hampshire Co. It is owned and operated by Tim and Becca Cooper and their children. 

Locally sourced food is in great demand in this country. The USDA has documented a significant growth in this area of farming and food production. Also with the recent out break of food borne illness shoppers want to know who produces their food. We will talk with a long time producer, Valley View Farms.

Some seniors are pressed for cash and one option available to them is a loan called reverse mortgages. The home owner takes out a mortgage on their house and its not due until after they die. We talk with Bo Higby who is a loan broker and he will explain what these reverse mortgages are.
Before taking out a reverse mortgage a person should do their research and make sure they understand the consequences if they go do this path.
]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,beef,civildefense,leadership,mortgages,reversemortages,valleyviewfalse328fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sleeping-with-the-bees-health-leadership-inn-for-sale-and-avoiding-the-parasite--73054042
General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Lisa Costello on At The Leadership Table. Dr. Costello is a pediatrician from West Virginia who cares for children in hospitals across the state. She is a medical leader who advocates in the state and at the national level for healthy Appalachian kids and families. Dr. Costello returns to the program to talk with the General about her leadership journey and to give us all an update on the West Virginia State Medical Association’s leadership program called Physician LEADS. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a Ritchie County Bee House inspired by one in Europe.

In Summers County, there is a former inn that is for sale, it is called Pence Springs. It started as a resort, then became a state women’s prison, an Inn and finally a school. The property is for sale and Dave Sibray who operates WV Explorer provides some history of the site. 

In our final segment, Tom Susman talks with local health leaders about a new food borne illness that is impacting our country and region.  It comes from various vegetables and fruits. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73054042Sun, 19 Jul 2026 13:26:06 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerSleeping with the Bees, Health Leadership, Inn for Sale, and Avoiding the Parasite  General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Lisa Costello on At The Leadership Table. Dr. Costello is a pediatrician from West Virginia who cares for children in hospitals...
General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Lisa Costello on At The Leadership Table. Dr. Costello is a pediatrician from West Virginia who cares for children in hospitals across the state. She is a medical leader who advocates in the state and at the national level for healthy Appalachian kids and families. Dr. Costello returns to the program to talk with the General about her leadership journey and to give us all an update on the West Virginia State Medical Association’s leadership program called Physician LEADS. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a Ritchie County Bee House inspired by one in Europe.

In Summers County, there is a former inn that is for sale, it is called Pence Springs. It started as a resort, then became a state women’s prison, an Inn and finally a school. The property is for sale and Dave Sibray who operates WV Explorer provides some history of the site. 

In our final segment, Tom Susman talks with local health leaders about a new food borne illness that is impacting our country and region.  It comes from various vegetables and fruits. 
]]>1791appalachia,beehouse,bees,cyclospora,foxfire,health,localhealth,pencesprings,wv,wvexplorer,wvsmafalse327fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wv-salt-moses-talks-with-general-artisans-explain-thier-craft--72961260Megan Moses she is a partner in the Moses Auto Group and President of the West Virginia Women's Alliance.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the J Q Dickenson Salt Works in Malden, West Virginia. 

In our final segment, we will hear from artisans and vendors who participated in this year's Mountain State Art and Craft Fair . These interviews demonstrate the participants passion for what they create. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72961260Tue, 14 Jul 2026 06:10:01 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table we are going to replay an interview General Hoyer had with Megan Moses she is a partner in the Moses Auto Group and President of the West Virginia Women's Alliance.    In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by...Megan Moses she is a partner in the Moses Auto Group and President of the West Virginia Women's Alliance.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the J Q Dickenson Salt Works in Malden, West Virginia. 

In our final segment, we will hear from artisans and vendors who participated in this year's Mountain State Art and Craft Fair . These interviews demonstrate the participants passion for what they create. 
]]>1791appalachia,jqdickinson,msacf,wv,wvsaltfalse326fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sternwheeler-and-regatta-time-ascending-in-wv-farmers-have-markets--72827876General Hoyer sits down with Danny Twilley, assistant vice president of economic, community, and asset development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative. The collaborative's Ascend West Virginia program is the main topic as Twilley and the General discuss the importance of inviting remote workers and business owners to move to West Virginia. The pair also highlighted the collaborative's new focus on attracting US military veterans via the Ascend Heroes initiative, which launched in May. 

We will also get to experience a community Farmers Market. These markets are opening across our region and provide a vehicle for local farmers and producers to sell their products.  

Our final discussion is with weatherman Bryan Hughes; he owns a sternwheeler and participates in several regattas along the Kanawha and Ohio regions.  He was at the Sternwheel Regatta  this week in Charleston as an organizer and a participant. but if you missed that regatta, there are several in the months of July and August around our region.  
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72827876Sun, 05 Jul 2026 15:20:44 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Danny Twilley, assistant vice president of economic, community, and asset development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative. The collaborative's Ascend...General Hoyer sits down with Danny Twilley, assistant vice president of economic, community, and asset development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative. The collaborative's Ascend West Virginia program is the main topic as Twilley and the General discuss the importance of inviting remote workers and business owners to move to West Virginia. The pair also highlighted the collaborative's new focus on attracting US military veterans via the Ascend Heroes initiative, which launched in May. 

We will also get to experience a community Farmers Market. These markets are opening across our region and provide a vehicle for local farmers and producers to sell their products.  

Our final discussion is with weatherman Bryan Hughes; he owns a sternwheeler and participates in several regattas along the Kanawha and Ohio regions.  He was at the Sternwheel Regatta  this week in Charleston as an organizer and a participant. but if you missed that regatta, there are several in the months of July and August around our region.  
 
]]>1788appalachia,asscend,charleston,cottagefood,crw,farmers,farmersmarket,marshall,sternwheeler,west,westvirginia,wvgrownfalse325fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-world-screw-worm-causing-problems-leadership-at-wvu-and-weld-s-study-of-wellsburg--72728884At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Logan Pierce, a recent graduate of West Virginia University and former student government leader. They discuss early leadership lessons, Logan’s commitment to advancing food security on college campuses, and the importance of advocating policies that support students and families. Logan also shares his optimism for the next generation of Mountain State leaders and his vision for a stronger future in Appalachia. 

In place of the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture, Tom Susman has an extended interview with W.V. Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt regarding the New World Screw Worm that is impacting livestock near the southern border, and it is now spreading northward. Kent provides information that will help not only farmers but those who own pets and other animals susceptible to the bug.  

In our final segment Tom Susman has a conversation with Ryan Weld who is a WV State Senator, in this interview they discuss Weld’s new book about history, architecture, and houses in Wellsburg WV. This city is in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia and Ryan’s hometown.  
 
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72728884Sun, 28 Jun 2026 14:33:42 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Logan Pierce, a recent graduate of West Virginia University and former student government leader. They discuss early leadership lessons, Logan’s commitment to advancing food security...At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Logan Pierce, a recent graduate of West Virginia University and former student government leader. They discuss early leadership lessons, Logan’s commitment to advancing food security on college campuses, and the importance of advocating policies that support students and families. Logan also shares his optimism for the next generation of Mountain State leaders and his vision for a stronger future in Appalachia. 

In place of the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture, Tom Susman has an extended interview with W.V. Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt regarding the New World Screw Worm that is impacting livestock near the southern border, and it is now spreading northward. Kent provides information that will help not only farmers but those who own pets and other animals susceptible to the bug.  

In our final segment Tom Susman has a conversation with Ryan Weld who is a WV State Senator, in this interview they discuss Weld’s new book about history, architecture, and houses in Wellsburg WV. This city is in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia and Ryan’s hometown.  
 
 
]]>1789agriculture,beef,newworldscrewworm,ryanweld,screwworm,wvufalse324fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-ohio-hard-enduro-classic-cars-mon-ems-and-wv-farm--72619864General Hoyer sits down with Dan Dushanko, Executive Director of Monongalia Emergency Medical Services (Mon EMS). They highlight technology Mon EMS has adopted to overcome logistical challenges as a primary first responder in north central West Virginia and beyond. The pair also discuss job initiatives Dushanko, and his teams are supporting to continue to improve retention rates of young medical professionals in Appalachia. 

In the Rooted in the Mountian State segment, we will revisit Valhalla Farms. This report is provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture   

A couple of weeks ago there were two events in Meigs County Ohio one was a X Games on steroids enduro motto cross for the more adventurous participant and the other was an old-time car show. Both are fun and expensive hobbies. Tom Susman reports on both. 
 
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72619864Sun, 21 Jun 2026 14:26:04 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dan Dushanko, Executive Director of Monongalia Emergency Medical Services (Mon EMS). They highlight technology Mon EMS has adopted to overcome logistical challenges as a primary first...General Hoyer sits down with Dan Dushanko, Executive Director of Monongalia Emergency Medical Services (Mon EMS). They highlight technology Mon EMS has adopted to overcome logistical challenges as a primary first responder in north central West Virginia and beyond. The pair also discuss job initiatives Dushanko, and his teams are supporting to continue to improve retention rates of young medical professionals in Appalachia. 

In the Rooted in the Mountian State segment, we will revisit Valhalla Farms. This report is provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture   

A couple of weeks ago there were two events in Meigs County Ohio one was a X Games on steroids enduro motto cross for the more adventurous participant and the other was an old-time car show. Both are fun and expensive hobbies. Tom Susman reports on both. 
 
 
]]>1789agriculture,classiccar,ems,monems,motorcross,ohiohardendurofalse323fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ticks-what-to-do-black-lung-help-helping-ems-and-a-white-picket-farm--72539802Statler, Delegate for West Virginia's 77th legislative district. Delegate Statler and The General discuss the challenges first responders face today and some of the recent legislation the Delegate has sponsored. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we learn about White Picket Farms in Wirt County West Virginia.
 
If you work in or around coal mines, you face Black Lung. It is a disease tied to exposure to coal dust that robs miners of their breath and eventually their life. I talk with Bink Mooney who runs the Nicholas County Black Lung Association whose goal is to help those afflicted with black lung get the benefits they are entitled to. Many times, the process is complicated and frustrating.  

If you go outside in West Virginia, you are dealing with Ticks. We talked with Amy Haskins, who is administrator of the Jackson County Health Department, about the pests and how to deal with them in a report filed with affiliate WMOV in Ravenswood, West Virginia. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72539802Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:58:39 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Joe Statler, Delegate for West Virginia's 77th legislative district. Delegate Statler and The General discuss the challenges first responders face today and some of the recent...Statler, Delegate for West Virginia's 77th legislative district. Delegate Statler and The General discuss the challenges first responders face today and some of the recent legislation the Delegate has sponsored. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we learn about White Picket Farms in Wirt County West Virginia.
 
If you work in or around coal mines, you face Black Lung. It is a disease tied to exposure to coal dust that robs miners of their breath and eventually their life. I talk with Bink Mooney who runs the Nicholas County Black Lung Association whose goal is to help those afflicted with black lung get the benefits they are entitled to. Many times, the process is complicated and frustrating.  

If you go outside in West Virginia, you are dealing with Ticks. We talked with Amy Haskins, who is administrator of the Jackson County Health Department, about the pests and how to deal with them in a report filed with affiliate WMOV in Ravenswood, West Virginia. 
]]>1788agriculture,appalachia,blacklung,ems,farming,publichealth,ticks,wvfalse322fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ramsey-looks-back-and-ahead-kendrick-fellows-at-the-table-and-meet-tim-brown-ag--72401820Cade Kincaid and Elliana Cepeda, students and Kendrick Fellows at the Kendrick Center for Ethical Economics at WVU. They discuss leadership through the study of economics, ethics, and public service. They share the importance of supporting young people who want to build careers and create lasting impact here in Appalachia. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segement we meet Tim Brown of the Department of Agriculture, an Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture dealing with plants, pesticides and environmental programs.  

Our final segment is an extended interview with Dave Ramsey who is President of Vandalia Health and CAMC Hospital in Charleston. He is retiring next month. He saved CAMC from financial collapse when he arrived in 2000, and he leaves a hospital organization that has transitioned into a vibrant statewide health delivery system. Tom Susman and Dave talk about Dave's time at CAMC, healthcare and his future doing the grandfather thing. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72401820Sun, 07 Jun 2026 14:25:03 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Cade Kincaid and Elliana Cepeda, students and Kendrick Fellows at the Kendrick Center for Ethical Economics at WVU. They discuss leadership through the study of economics, ethics, and...Cade Kincaid and Elliana Cepeda, students and Kendrick Fellows at the Kendrick Center for Ethical Economics at WVU. They discuss leadership through the study of economics, ethics, and public service. They share the importance of supporting young people who want to build careers and create lasting impact here in Appalachia. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segement we meet Tim Brown of the Department of Agriculture, an Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture dealing with plants, pesticides and environmental programs.  

Our final segment is an extended interview with Dave Ramsey who is President of Vandalia Health and CAMC Hospital in Charleston. He is retiring next month. He saved CAMC from financial collapse when he arrived in 2000, and he leaves a hospital organization that has transitioned into a vibrant statewide health delivery system. Tom Susman and Dave talk about Dave's time at CAMC, healthcare and his future doing the grandfather thing. 
]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,camc,health,hoyer,k,kendrick,kenkendrick,vandaliahealth,wv,wvufalse321fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-look-lou-gherig-als-disease-fathers-day-revisit-senior-vouchers-and-rural-ceo-to-watch--72261288General Hoyer about how leadership begins at the home and we will hear from some dads about how fatherhood has taught them leadership lessons that have allowed them to better serve their community and their family. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the senior nutrition vouchers that will be available in June. 

ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease is a disease that is fatal. We will talk with Doctor Jared Hollinger, a neurologist and professor with Marshall Health. He discusses the disease and what families can do to support their loved ones.  

Under the leadership of Stephanie McCoy WVU Medicine Jackson General Hospital  completed a building program that reconstructed the facility in Ripley, she then retired and Candace Miller was selected by the board and WVU to take over the reins of the hospital. As the administrator and CEO  the Point Pleasant resident has lifted the facility to new levels and  Candace was recently recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one  of the Rural CEOs to Watch, Tom Susman talks with Candace about the recognition and the hospital . 
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72261288Sun, 31 May 2026 11:20:16 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAlthough Father's Day is a couple weeks away, we are going to run a previously played AT the Leadership table with General Hoyer about how leadership begins at the home and we will hear from some dads about how fatherhood has taught them leadership...General Hoyer about how leadership begins at the home and we will hear from some dads about how fatherhood has taught them leadership lessons that have allowed them to better serve their community and their family. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the senior nutrition vouchers that will be available in June. 

ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease is a disease that is fatal. We will talk with Doctor Jared Hollinger, a neurologist and professor with Marshall Health. He discusses the disease and what families can do to support their loved ones.  

Under the leadership of Stephanie McCoy WVU Medicine Jackson General Hospital  completed a building program that reconstructed the facility in Ripley, she then retired and Candace Miller was selected by the board and WVU to take over the reins of the hospital. As the administrator and CEO  the Point Pleasant resident has lifted the facility to new levels and  Candace was recently recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one  of the Rural CEOs to Watch, Tom Susman talks with Candace about the recognition and the hospital . 
 
]]>1791als,appalachia,famersmarket,fathersday,health,lougherig,marshallhealth,westvirginia,wvuhealthfalse320fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bikers-take-over-main-street-fairmont-farmers-fertilizer-and-cost--72165989Alex Petry, Executive Director of Main Street Fairmont. They discuss the power of partnerships, listening to community needs, and honoring history to build the future of Main Street communities. Alex also shares several local events in downtown Fairmont throughout the rest of the year, such as the Summer Hometown Market series on the 3rd Saturday of each month, August’s annual Tomato Festival, and December’s historic celebration of the 20th Annual Feast of the Seven Fishes. 
 
Each year the City of Charleston hosts The USA Cycling Professional Road National Championships and this year the dates are June 16 through the 21st. If you get a chance you will want to come to the capitol city for this event Tom Susman talks with Matt Sutton, who is the Chief of Staff to Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin about the race and the economic impact of the event. 
 
In our final segment, we have an extended interview with JJ Barrett, who is the WVU Cooperative Extension agent for Wood County. The conflict is Iran and the closing of the strait of Hormuz is having significant impact on the availability of fertilizer and its cost. We talk about alternatives and being more efficient with fertilizer.   
 
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72165989Tue, 26 May 2026 09:43:09 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week is Alex Petry, Executive Director of Main Street Fairmont. They discuss the power of partnerships, listening to community needs, and honoring history to build the future of Main...Alex Petry, Executive Director of Main Street Fairmont. They discuss the power of partnerships, listening to community needs, and honoring history to build the future of Main Street communities. Alex also shares several local events in downtown Fairmont throughout the rest of the year, such as the Summer Hometown Market series on the 3rd Saturday of each month, August’s annual Tomato Festival, and December’s historic celebration of the 20th Annual Feast of the Seven Fishes. 
 
Each year the City of Charleston hosts The USA Cycling Professional Road National Championships and this year the dates are June 16 through the 21st. If you get a chance you will want to come to the capitol city for this event Tom Susman talks with Matt Sutton, who is the Chief of Staff to Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin about the race and the economic impact of the event. 
 
In our final segment, we have an extended interview with JJ Barrett, who is the WVU Cooperative Extension agent for Wood County. The conflict is Iran and the closing of the strait of Hormuz is having significant impact on the availability of fertilizer and its cost. We talk about alternatives and being more efficient with fertilizer.   
 
 
]]>1790crw,fairmont,farmer,fertilizer,wvfalse319fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/get-moving-barbour-bakery-h-stands-for-hope-sports-awards--72055795General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University students Joey Allinger and Andrea Cipriano to talk about their work this semester with Get Moving Inc., a nonprofit focused on promoting healthy lifestyles for West Virginia’s youth. They discuss the mission of Get Moving, community events and partnerships such as the Quarterback Challenge with WVU Medicine Galisano Children's Hospital, and what these young professionals envision for West Virginia 10 years from now. 
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about a Barbour County bakery. 

In our third segment Tom Susman talks with Jim Kaufman of the WV Hospital Association about an editorial he sent to newspapers for Hospital Week which was in May.  
 
In our final interview,  Michael Susman talks with Jim Workman one of the deans of the sports writers in West Virginia about the West Virginia  Sports Writers  Association and its annual awards banquet as well as future plans for next year as they enter their 80th year.  Jim is excutive director for the group.
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72055795Mon, 18 May 2026 14:00:59 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University students Joey Allinger and Andrea Cipriano to talk about their work this semester with Get Moving Inc., a nonprofit focused on promoting healthy lifestyles for...General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University students Joey Allinger and Andrea Cipriano to talk about their work this semester with Get Moving Inc., a nonprofit focused on promoting healthy lifestyles for West Virginia’s youth. They discuss the mission of Get Moving, community events and partnerships such as the Quarterback Challenge with WVU Medicine Galisano Children's Hospital, and what these young professionals envision for West Virginia 10 years from now. 
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about a Barbour County bakery. 

In our third segment Tom Susman talks with Jim Kaufman of the WV Hospital Association about an editorial he sent to newspapers for Hospital Week which was in May.  
 
In our final interview,  Michael Susman talks with Jim Workman one of the deans of the sports writers in West Virginia about the West Virginia  Sports Writers  Association and its annual awards banquet as well as future plans for next year as they enter their 80th year.  Jim is excutive director for the group.
 
]]>1790appalachia,healthcare,hospital,wv,wvdeptofag!,wvhafalse317fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/food-fight-the-greenbrier-dust-bowl-boards-local-theater-and-main-street-part-2--71947210 Leadership Table General Jim Hoyer will finish his discussion with Robby Blair, head of the Min Street program in Martinsburg. If you missed part, one goto our Appalachia Matters Podcast on Spreaker. 

During the dust bowl in the 1930s, the federal government established conservation districts. In the coming primary election in West Virginia, you will get to vote for a conservation supervisor for your county. Kent Leonhardt, West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture, will provide further explanation.

The Greenbrier Valley Theater located in Lewisburg is one of the most vibrant theaters in the state, wewill talk with its Artistic Director Courtney Susman Frye.

In our final segment we try to make sense of all the lawsuits being filed regarding the Greenbrier Hotel, not so much about the details of the suits but on why companies file so many suits and what it all means. Tom Susman talks with Dan Casto of Campbell, Casto, & Clark a leading law firm headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia to get a better explanation.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71947210Sun, 10 May 2026 15:09:05 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table General Jim Hoyer will finish his discussion with Robby Blair, head of the Min Street program in Martinsburg. If you missed part, one goto our Appalachia Matters Podcast on Spreaker.  During the dust bowl in the 1930s, the... Leadership Table General Jim Hoyer will finish his discussion with Robby Blair, head of the Min Street program in Martinsburg. If you missed part, one goto our Appalachia Matters Podcast on Spreaker. 

During the dust bowl in the 1930s, the federal government established conservation districts. In the coming primary election in West Virginia, you will get to vote for a conservation supervisor for your county. Kent Leonhardt, West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture, will provide further explanation.

The Greenbrier Valley Theater located in Lewisburg is one of the most vibrant theaters in the state, wewill talk with its Artistic Director Courtney Susman Frye.

In our final segment we try to make sense of all the lawsuits being filed regarding the Greenbrier Hotel, not so much about the details of the suits but on why companies file so many suits and what it all means. Tom Susman talks with Dan Casto of Campbell, Casto, & Clark a leading law firm headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia to get a better explanation.  ]]>1792appalachia,dustbowl,greenbrier,gvt,jimjustice,legal,mainstreet,martinsburg,omnifalse317fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/marinsburg-main-street-wv-grown-ems-is-getting-help-and-steven-allen-adams-sheds-light-on-dark-money--71840271Robby Blair, Executive Director of Main Street Martinsburg.  In part one of this two-part interview, the General and Robby discuss the Main Street philosophy, the Martinsburg community, and how Main Street Martinsburg is contributing to economic vitality in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. Be sure to tune in next week for part two of this discussion.  
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment for the Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the WV Grown Program. 
 
In an earlier episode we talked with Chris Hall, executive director of the West Virginia EMS Coalition about funding for EMS and struggles the industry is facing. In the last session of the legislature, some progress was made, and Chris will bring us up to date. 
 
In our final segment, we learn about all those political flyers being sent to your mailbox and texts being sent to your phone and who is paying for them as we talk with Steven Allen Adams Chief Political Writer for the Ogden newspapers.  
 
 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71840271Sun, 03 May 2026 15:12:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Robby Blair, Executive Director of Main Street Martinsburg.  In part one of this two-part interview, the General and Robby discuss the Main Street philosophy, the Martinsburg...Robby Blair, Executive Director of Main Street Martinsburg.  In part one of this two-part interview, the General and Robby discuss the Main Street philosophy, the Martinsburg community, and how Main Street Martinsburg is contributing to economic vitality in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. Be sure to tune in next week for part two of this discussion.  
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment for the Department of Agriculture, we will learn about the WV Grown Program. 
 
In an earlier episode we talked with Chris Hall, executive director of the West Virginia EMS Coalition about funding for EMS and struggles the industry is facing. In the last session of the legislature, some progress was made, and Chris will bring us up to date. 
 
In our final segment, we learn about all those political flyers being sent to your mailbox and texts being sent to your phone and who is paying for them as we talk with Steven Allen Adams Chief Political Writer for the Ogden newspapers.  
 
 
]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,dem,dirtymoney,elections,ems,gop,mainstreetmartinsburg,martinsburg,wv,wvgrownfalse316fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/radio-s-future-talks-with-the-general-and-appalachian-authors--71653477
This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Nico Caretto and Emma Domingo, two students from U92 the Moose, West Virginia University’s award-winning campus radio station. The students share how their roots in Ohio and Virginia led them to WVU, reflect on how their roles as a U92 sports caster and disc jockey have shaped their college experiences, and explore why radio continues to matter across generations.

In our final two segments we will talk with Appalachians who have each published a book. The first is Joel Beverly from Whitesburg Kentucky and his book is titled In the Absence of Belief: A Memoir and Manifesto from the Heart of Appalachia should be available in early June and the second is Charleston Attorney Andy Richardson, he and his team have published children's book Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71653477Sun, 26 Apr 2026 11:47:41 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerRadio’s Future Talks with The General and Appalachian Authors This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Nico Caretto and Emma Domingo, two students from U92 the Moose, West Virginia University’s award-winning campus radio...
This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Nico Caretto and Emma Domingo, two students from U92 the Moose, West Virginia University’s award-winning campus radio station. The students share how their roots in Ohio and Virginia led them to WVU, reflect on how their roles as a U92 sports caster and disc jockey have shaped their college experiences, and explore why radio continues to matter across generations.

In our final two segments we will talk with Appalachians who have each published a book. The first is Joel Beverly from Whitesburg Kentucky and his book is titled In the Absence of Belief: A Memoir and Manifesto from the Heart of Appalachia should be available in early June and the second is Charleston Attorney Andy Richardson, he and his team have published children's book Our Charlie West Treasure Hunt.]]>1790appalachia,charleiwest,crw,radio,u92,wvufalse315fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wvu-student-radio-agritourism-and-this-old-farm-museum-is-50-years-old--71437919General James Hoyer sits down with Eric Nuttall, Broadcast Advisor for WVU Student Media and Program Coordinator for U92 The Moose, WVU’s award-winning campus radio station. They discuss shaping the next generation of broadcasters, and why radio continues to be important for West Virginians across ages and places.

The next two segments will deal with agritourism. The first is the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture which will provide background on the coming agritourism conference at Glade Springs later in April. 

Then we will hear about an agritourism trail being developed in several counties in West Virginia by Brenda Mobley Director of the Ripley CVB.  

In our final segment you will learn about The West Virginia State Farm Museum which is 50 years old this year.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71437919Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:36:24 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General James Hoyer sits down with Eric Nuttall, Broadcast Advisor for WVU Student Media and Program Coordinator for U92 The Moose, WVU’s award-winning campus radio station. They discuss shaping the next...General James Hoyer sits down with Eric Nuttall, Broadcast Advisor for WVU Student Media and Program Coordinator for U92 The Moose, WVU’s award-winning campus radio station. They discuss shaping the next generation of broadcasters, and why radio continues to be important for West Virginians across ages and places.

The next two segments will deal with agritourism. The first is the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture which will provide background on the coming agritourism conference at Glade Springs later in April. 

Then we will hear about an agritourism trail being developed in several counties in West Virginia by Brenda Mobley Director of the Ripley CVB.  

In our final segment you will learn about The West Virginia State Farm Museum which is 50 years old this year.]]>1790agritourisim,appalachia,farm,radio,ripleycvb,wv,wvdeptofag,wvufalse314fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-inside-look-at-wvssac-wv-wine-and-help-for-small-business--71274286April Urnst with Old World Libations a winery in Monroe County West Virginia.  

There are over 80,000 secondary school student athletes in West Virginia, these sports that they compete in is regulated by The West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission otherwise known as the WVSSAC.  Many times, the only time we hear about this group is if there is controversy or a lawsuit We wil talk with Wayne Ryan the Executive Director of the commission to get an understanding of what the WVSSAC does and how it is formed.  

The Secretary of the State’s office in West Virginia oversees elections, but the office is also responsible for several corporate filings for West Virginia companies. To assist small business Secretary of State Chris Warner asked the legislature for the authority to form an office of entrepreneurship.   The legislation passed in the last legislative session; Governor Patrick Morrisey signed the bill. Recently, we talked with Secretary Warner to learn about the new office.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71274286Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:13:33 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn our rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will highlight West Virginia Grown Member of the Month April Urnst with Old World Libations a winery in Monroe County West Virginia.   There are over 80,000 secondary school student athletes in West...April Urnst with Old World Libations a winery in Monroe County West Virginia.  

There are over 80,000 secondary school student athletes in West Virginia, these sports that they compete in is regulated by The West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission otherwise known as the WVSSAC.  Many times, the only time we hear about this group is if there is controversy or a lawsuit We wil talk with Wayne Ryan the Executive Director of the commission to get an understanding of what the WVSSAC does and how it is formed.  

The Secretary of the State’s office in West Virginia oversees elections, but the office is also responsible for several corporate filings for West Virginia companies. To assist small business Secretary of State Chris Warner asked the legislature for the authority to form an office of entrepreneurship.   The legislation passed in the last legislative session; Governor Patrick Morrisey signed the bill. Recently, we talked with Secretary Warner to learn about the new office.    ]]>1787agriculture,appalachia,sports,wvprepbb,wvssacfalse313fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/improving-education-with-rural-health-vahala-ranch-women-leaders-matewan-museum--71114622
This week on At the Leadership Table, is Part 2 of the two-part series honoring International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month. General Hoyer revisits and reflects on the insights and perspectives from women leaders across the Mountain State who were featured in past segments. Today you’ll hear Part 2 of this series, and if you haven’t already, give Part One a listen, too! You can find it online by searching for Appalachia Matters anywhere you listen to podcasts.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Vahala Ranch in Sistersville, West Virginia. They recently were awarded a grant for the farm.

School-based health clinics provide primary health care behavioral health and other services such as vision and dental care. They provide access to students, in some instances such as rural settings; they can also serve the community.  Recently one such clinic opened in southern Gallia County as part of Ohio Governor’s Mike DeWine’s Office for of Appalachia. It is a joint project of the school system, Holzer Health and Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus.  We will learn more about the clinic and the services offered.

Matewan West Virginia is now a living memorial to the coal wars of the early 1900s, but in the day it was a flash point for coal company and union organizing disputes, this week Dave Miller of WMOV was in Matewan and he talked with MacKenize New Walker  of the  West Virginia Mine Wars Museum and she will provide an overview of the museum history and some of the projects they are in involved in at this time.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71114622Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:01:57 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, is Part 2 of the two-part series honoring International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month. General Hoyer revisits and reflects on the insights and perspectives from women leaders across the Mountain State who...
This week on At the Leadership Table, is Part 2 of the two-part series honoring International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month. General Hoyer revisits and reflects on the insights and perspectives from women leaders across the Mountain State who were featured in past segments. Today you’ll hear Part 2 of this series, and if you haven’t already, give Part One a listen, too! You can find it online by searching for Appalachia Matters anywhere you listen to podcasts.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Vahala Ranch in Sistersville, West Virginia. They recently were awarded a grant for the farm.

School-based health clinics provide primary health care behavioral health and other services such as vision and dental care. They provide access to students, in some instances such as rural settings; they can also serve the community.  Recently one such clinic opened in southern Gallia County as part of Ohio Governor’s Mike DeWine’s Office for of Appalachia. It is a joint project of the school system, Holzer Health and Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus.  We will learn more about the clinic and the services offered.

Matewan West Virginia is now a living memorial to the coal wars of the early 1900s, but in the day it was a flash point for coal company and union organizing disputes, this week Dave Miller of WMOV was in Matewan and he talked with MacKenize New Walker  of the  West Virginia Mine Wars Museum and she will provide an overview of the museum history and some of the projects they are in involved in at this time.  ]]>1791appalachia,dewine,health,holzer,leadership,matewan,minewars,ruralhealth,studenthealth,umwa,vahalafarmfalse312fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/walking-over-water-good-greens-vetoes-citizen-legislators-women-leaders--70975590
In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will meet a veteran, Corey Clendenin who is a farmer and he was granted funds for his farm through a Veterans and Hero’s pitch contest sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Clendenin grows micro greens, and his farm is in Sissonville near Charleston.

When any state legislature finishes, the Governor must take time to review the adopted bills to see if he will sign or veto the bill.   I talked with attorney Alex Macia about the process used in West Virginia. Macia was chief counsel for former West Virginia Governor Bob Wise. Alex provides a front row explanation of what happens.

Our congress is full time, those who are elected have little time to hold down a job other than being a representative or senator.  In West Virginia the legislature meets for two months in the wintertime, and its members are regular people who hold a job during the time they are not in session. On the 2026 last day of legislative session Senator Eric Tarr of Putnam discusses the benefits of a part-time legislature.

The Ohio River Town of Middleport held a bridge walk in March, where walkers would come across the bridge into West Virginia then return to Ohio. Over 250 people showed up. We talked with some participants. We talk with Maureen Kloss one of the organizers, Mayor Ben Neese and Meigs Sheriff Scott Fitch.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70975590Sun, 29 Mar 2026 14:43:41 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer revisits insights and perspectives from women leaders featured in past segments. This lookback is in honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month in March. In this two-part series,...
In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will meet a veteran, Corey Clendenin who is a farmer and he was granted funds for his farm through a Veterans and Hero’s pitch contest sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Clendenin grows micro greens, and his farm is in Sissonville near Charleston.

When any state legislature finishes, the Governor must take time to review the adopted bills to see if he will sign or veto the bill.   I talked with attorney Alex Macia about the process used in West Virginia. Macia was chief counsel for former West Virginia Governor Bob Wise. Alex provides a front row explanation of what happens.

Our congress is full time, those who are elected have little time to hold down a job other than being a representative or senator.  In West Virginia the legislature meets for two months in the wintertime, and its members are regular people who hold a job during the time they are not in session. On the 2026 last day of legislative session Senator Eric Tarr of Putnam discusses the benefits of a part-time legislature.

The Ohio River Town of Middleport held a bridge walk in March, where walkers would come across the bridge into West Virginia then return to Ohio. Over 250 people showed up. We talked with some participants. We talk with Maureen Kloss one of the organizers, Mayor Ben Neese and Meigs Sheriff Scott Fitch.    ]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,leadership,ohio,ohioriver,veto,walkoverwaterfalse311fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-best-wv-hot-dog-alpacas-business-ethics-groundbreaking-rotarian--70810593General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Cate Johnson from the Chambers College of Business and Economics at West Virginia University. Dr. Johnson shares insights into her work with the Kendrick Educators and Fellows Programs, initiatives designed to expand opportunities for people of all ages to study economics and ethics and then stay and support our communities right here, across the Mountain State.  

In our Rooted in the Mountain State segment produced by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Moon Raker Alpaca farm in Jackson County. The farm is operated by Karen Arbaugh.  

Americans consume approximately 20 billion hot dogs annually, which averages about 70 hot dogs per person, per year. Consumption spikes significantly during the summer, with roughly 7 billion consumed between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Hot dogs are served in 95% of US homes according to the Hotdog and Sausage Council.   In West Virginia, just like the pepperoni roll there is the West Virginia dog style hotdog which for me includes chili (not sauce), cole slaw, mustard, ketchup, and onions, some may add relish.  To find the best hot dog in West Virginia, Jay Silverman of Kanawha County has visited every county and stopped at 300 hot dog joints. He has chronicled his journey in what most people call a documentary and what he calls a dogumentary.  This week we have a discussion with Jay about his travels and dogumentary.  

In our final segment we will talk with Marci Wyer, she was one of the first women in West Virginia to join Rotary when she joined Ripley Rotary and one of the first to be a club president in the state. The Ripley rotary is 100 years old this year and Marci will share her rotary experience with us.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70810593Sun, 22 Mar 2026 11:29:30 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Cate Johnson from the Chambers College of Business and Economics at West Virginia University. Dr. Johnson shares insights into her work with the Kendrick Educators and Fellows Programs,...General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Cate Johnson from the Chambers College of Business and Economics at West Virginia University. Dr. Johnson shares insights into her work with the Kendrick Educators and Fellows Programs, initiatives designed to expand opportunities for people of all ages to study economics and ethics and then stay and support our communities right here, across the Mountain State.  

In our Rooted in the Mountain State segment produced by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Moon Raker Alpaca farm in Jackson County. The farm is operated by Karen Arbaugh.  

Americans consume approximately 20 billion hot dogs annually, which averages about 70 hot dogs per person, per year. Consumption spikes significantly during the summer, with roughly 7 billion consumed between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Hot dogs are served in 95% of US homes according to the Hotdog and Sausage Council.   In West Virginia, just like the pepperoni roll there is the West Virginia dog style hotdog which for me includes chili (not sauce), cole slaw, mustard, ketchup, and onions, some may add relish.  To find the best hot dog in West Virginia, Jay Silverman of Kanawha County has visited every county and stopped at 300 hot dog joints. He has chronicled his journey in what most people call a documentary and what he calls a dogumentary.  This week we have a discussion with Jay about his travels and dogumentary.  

In our final segment we will talk with Marci Wyer, she was one of the first women in West Virginia to join Rotary when she joined Ripley Rotary and one of the first to be a club president in the state. The Ripley rotary is 100 years old this year and Marci will share her rotary experience with us.    ]]>1791agriculture,aplaca,appalachia,hotdog,rilpeyrotary,rotary,wvhotdog,wvufalse310fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-arthritis-relief-possible-school-consolidation-jobs-and-hope-and-ag-development--70542310General Hoyer sits down with Deb Harris from Jobs & Hope West Virginia. Deb shares her powerful personal journey to where she is today and explains how Jobs & Hope connects West Virginians in recovery with family-sustaining careers right here at home.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will meet Leslie Boggess director of Business Development for the Ag. Department.   In many parts West Virginia there has been a reduction in the number of students attending school due to population decline as a result there have consolidations and closures of local public schools.   

A few years ago, the legislature enacted a program called Hope Scholarship which provides an amount of money equal to what the state would have given to a public school for a child to go to a private school or be home schooled. Next year the program will be available to all students in the state, and it is clear this program will lead to further consolidations and closures of public schools unless the current public school funding formula is changed.   Tom Susman talks with Senator Amy Grady of Mason County who is chair of the Senate Education Committee about the formula and consolidation concerns.  

Approximately 32.5 to 33 million American adults suffer from osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis. This degenerative joint disease affects about 1 in 7 U.S. adults, with prevalence rising to 50% or more among adults aged 65 and older.  In our final segment we will learn about a new treatment for osteoarthritis using low dose radiation therapy. Doctor Maxwell Tran of Holzer Health is breaking new ground for those of us who have osteoarthritis.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70542310Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:47:55 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Deb Harris from Jobs & Hope West Virginia. Deb shares her powerful personal journey to where she is today and explains how Jobs & Hope connects West Virginians in recovery with...General Hoyer sits down with Deb Harris from Jobs & Hope West Virginia. Deb shares her powerful personal journey to where she is today and explains how Jobs & Hope connects West Virginians in recovery with family-sustaining careers right here at home.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will meet Leslie Boggess director of Business Development for the Ag. Department.   In many parts West Virginia there has been a reduction in the number of students attending school due to population decline as a result there have consolidations and closures of local public schools.   

A few years ago, the legislature enacted a program called Hope Scholarship which provides an amount of money equal to what the state would have given to a public school for a child to go to a private school or be home schooled. Next year the program will be available to all students in the state, and it is clear this program will lead to further consolidations and closures of public schools unless the current public school funding formula is changed.   Tom Susman talks with Senator Amy Grady of Mason County who is chair of the Senate Education Committee about the formula and consolidation concerns.  

Approximately 32.5 to 33 million American adults suffer from osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis. This degenerative joint disease affects about 1 in 7 U.S. adults, with prevalence rising to 50% or more among adults aged 65 and older.  In our final segment we will learn about a new treatment for osteoarthritis using low dose radiation therapy. Doctor Maxwell Tran of Holzer Health is breaking new ground for those of us who have osteoarthritis.]]>1791false39fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-pitching-in-keeping-the-lights-on-maple-day-and-preserving-wheeling--70375138General Hoyer sits down with Scott Schenerlein, Executive Director of Wheeling Heritage. Scott and the General discuss revitalizing Wheeling, a town known for its history as an economic engine for the nation, a cultural hub, and its legacy as a community that thrives in small business, the arts, and lifting each other up.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture, we are going to learn about Maple Days at Starry Night Farms.  

Former West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair will join us to discuss his new project working to ensure the electric grid can meet the demands of the future.  

Then we will learn how Grafton, Toothman Ford, and Appalachia Matters Affiliate WGIE came to the aid of a student athlete who is battling cancer.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70375138Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:24:36 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Scott Schenerlein, Executive Director of Wheeling Heritage. Scott and the General discuss revitalizing Wheeling, a town known for its history as an economic engine for the nation, a cultural hub,...General Hoyer sits down with Scott Schenerlein, Executive Director of Wheeling Heritage. Scott and the General discuss revitalizing Wheeling, a town known for its history as an economic engine for the nation, a cultural hub, and its legacy as a community that thrives in small business, the arts, and lifting each other up.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture, we are going to learn about Maple Days at Starry Night Farms.  

Former West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair will join us to discuss his new project working to ensure the electric grid can meet the demands of the future.  

Then we will learn how Grafton, Toothman Ford, and Appalachia Matters Affiliate WGIE came to the aid of a student athlete who is battling cancer.]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,electric,honey,maplesyrup,thegrid,toothmanford,westvirginiafalse38fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/where-s-jim-warhol-exhibit-at-clay-center-justin-talks-with-the-general-and-winter-farmer-s-market--70212932General Hoyer sits down with Justin Williams, Director of the West Virginia Affiliated Construction Trades. They discuss local jobs for local workers and the high-quality career paths available in the state's construction industry. Williams shares that leadership is defined by action rather than titles and emphasizes the importance of providing family-sustaining wages, health insurance, and retirement security for West Virginia’s workforce.

 In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we learn about the annual Winter Blues Farmer’s Market.  

Andy Warhol was a leading Pop Artist, and he was from Pittsburgh and was the center of the art world in New York in the 60s, 70s and 80’s. There is a traveling display of his work at the Clay Center in Charleston and we talk with Lindsay Miranda Curator for the Clay Center. The exhibit closes at the end of March.  

In our final report Tom Susman talks with Jim Strawn of Charleston about his experience as a volunteer for the LIV Golf Tour. He has traveled to Saudi Arabia and Australia for the tour and will soon be on his way to Singapore. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70212932Sun, 22 Feb 2026 15:49:17 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Justin Williams, Director of the West Virginia Affiliated Construction Trades. They discuss local jobs for local workers and the high-quality career paths available in the state's...General Hoyer sits down with Justin Williams, Director of the West Virginia Affiliated Construction Trades. They discuss local jobs for local workers and the high-quality career paths available in the state's construction industry. Williams shares that leadership is defined by action rather than titles and emphasizes the importance of providing family-sustaining wages, health insurance, and retirement security for West Virginia’s workforce.

 In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we learn about the annual Winter Blues Farmer’s Market.  

Andy Warhol was a leading Pop Artist, and he was from Pittsburgh and was the center of the art world in New York in the 60s, 70s and 80’s. There is a traveling display of his work at the Clay Center in Charleston and we talk with Lindsay Miranda Curator for the Clay Center. The exhibit closes at the end of March.  

In our final report Tom Susman talks with Jim Strawn of Charleston about his experience as a volunteer for the LIV Golf Tour. He has traveled to Saudi Arabia and Australia for the tour and will soon be on his way to Singapore. ]]>1791appalachia,claycenter,golf,labor,liv,warholfalse37fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/build-it-up-wv-maple-syrup-blue-envelopes-and-the-dean-of-skiing--70069346General Hoyer sits down with Jason Pizatella, CEO of the Contractors Association of West Virginia. Pizatella emphasizes that construction is essential to life and discusses various ways the association is working to "Build It Up" by fortifying the state's workforce and improving critical infrastructure.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia department of agriculture we will learn about maple syrup. West Virginia is a major player in the syrup game.  

We talked with Delegate Walter Hall of St Albans for many years he has worked to help those with Alzheimer’s to have a safe haven in St. Albans and he is now working on a new cause in the legislature to help those with autism, intellectual disabilities and dementia.
 
In our final segment we talked with the dean of the ski industry in West Virginia, Joe Stevens. He is long time Executive Drector of the West Virginia Ski Areas Association. In the interview Joe talks about major changes in the ski industry over the last 30 years plus.   ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70069346Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:03:40 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Jason Pizatella, CEO of the Contractors Association of West Virginia. Pizatella emphasizes that construction is essential to life and discusses various ways the association is working...General Hoyer sits down with Jason Pizatella, CEO of the Contractors Association of West Virginia. Pizatella emphasizes that construction is essential to life and discusses various ways the association is working to "Build It Up" by fortifying the state's workforce and improving critical infrastructure.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia department of agriculture we will learn about maple syrup. West Virginia is a major player in the syrup game.  

We talked with Delegate Walter Hall of St Albans for many years he has worked to help those with Alzheimer’s to have a safe haven in St. Albans and he is now working on a new cause in the legislature to help those with autism, intellectual disabilities and dementia.
 
In our final segment we talked with the dean of the ski industry in West Virginia, Joe Stevens. He is long time Executive Drector of the West Virginia Ski Areas Association. In the interview Joe talks about major changes in the ski industry over the last 30 years plus.   ]]>1791autisim,blueenvelope,maple,maplesyrup,roads,skiing,wvlegisfalse36fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/off-roading-fighting-hunger-black-dog-coffee-and-ice-fising-in-wv--69874897General Hoyer welcomes back Wally Hatfield, Vice President of Training and Experimentation at CMI2 and Vice President of the Mountaineer Food Bank Board of Directors. Together, they dive into perspectives and initiatives addressing veteran food security and highlight the Freedom from Hunger Campaign, a partnership between Mountaineer Food Bank and GoMart stores throughout West Virginia running all through February.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about Black Dog Coffee in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

We have all been facing the cold temperatures and lots of snow this winter, the other day during the cold Tom Susman noticed folks ice fishing on Turkey Run Lake in Ravenswood West Virginia. When you think of ice fishing you think on Wisconsin Michigan and Minnesota not West Virginia. In this segment we are going to talk with three hearty fishermen who braved the cold in search of trout.  

Off-Roading with a Jeep, four-wheeler, side by side, or motorcycle is big business in this country and Appalachia is ground zero for some of the best trail systems in the country.   In this segment we will hear from an advocate for off roaders in the state government State Senator Mark Maynard of Wayne County he has been a constant voice for those who off road.   Then we will her from businessperson Chris Ingram who is developing a trail system in Kanawha and Fayette Counties and in the third interview will be with Gabe Roush of Point Pleasant. He is on city council and is involved with Main Street Point Pleasant. Each year the city participates in an event called 24 Hours of Appalachia and this year, off roaders will travel from Seneca Rocks in eastern West Virginia to Point Pleasant West Virginia.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69874897Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:35:14 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table, General Hoyer welcomes back Wally Hatfield, Vice President of Training and Experimentation at CMI2 and Vice President of the Mountaineer Food Bank Board of Directors. Together, they dive into perspectives and initiatives...General Hoyer welcomes back Wally Hatfield, Vice President of Training and Experimentation at CMI2 and Vice President of the Mountaineer Food Bank Board of Directors. Together, they dive into perspectives and initiatives addressing veteran food security and highlight the Freedom from Hunger Campaign, a partnership between Mountaineer Food Bank and GoMart stores throughout West Virginia running all through February.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about Black Dog Coffee in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

We have all been facing the cold temperatures and lots of snow this winter, the other day during the cold Tom Susman noticed folks ice fishing on Turkey Run Lake in Ravenswood West Virginia. When you think of ice fishing you think on Wisconsin Michigan and Minnesota not West Virginia. In this segment we are going to talk with three hearty fishermen who braved the cold in search of trout.  

Off-Roading with a Jeep, four-wheeler, side by side, or motorcycle is big business in this country and Appalachia is ground zero for some of the best trail systems in the country.   In this segment we will hear from an advocate for off roaders in the state government State Senator Mark Maynard of Wayne County he has been a constant voice for those who off road.   Then we will her from businessperson Chris Ingram who is developing a trail system in Kanawha and Fayette Counties and in the third interview will be with Gabe Roush of Point Pleasant. He is on city council and is involved with Main Street Point Pleasant. Each year the city participates in an event called 24 Hours of Appalachia and this year, off roaders will travel from Seneca Rocks in eastern West Virginia to Point Pleasant West Virginia.  ]]>1792false35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/quality-care-agriculture-working-the-epa-wv-history-and-medical-leadership--69722930At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Larry Rhodes, a pediatric cardiologist, Associate Professor in the WVU School of Medicine, and Executive Director for Rural Programs at the WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health. Larry started life in Nitro, West Virginia, then took his studies and practice all the way to Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, but country roads took him home. The two discuss leadership and service in and for our rural communities, providing inspiration for those at the bedside and far beyond!  

The in the Rooted in the Mountain State segment Commissioner of Agriculture for West Virginia Kent Leonhardt talks about his departments work with the federal EPA.  

Doug Bentz one the most progressive hospital administrators in West Virginia talks about the work of the quality committee at the West Virginia Hospital Association which he chairs.  Doug talks about how competing hospitals work together in ensure patient safety including reducing infections from the overuse of anti-biotics. This effort improves outcomes and reduces costs.  

Every January there is tourism and history day at the state capitol in Charleston. Tom Susman talked with some of those participating in the day.  He talked with individuals from Fort Ashby, Charlestown and Arthurdale.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69722930Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:36:26 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Larry Rhodes, a pediatric cardiologist, Associate Professor in the WVU School of Medicine, and Executive Director for Rural Programs at the WVU Institute for Community and Rural...At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Larry Rhodes, a pediatric cardiologist, Associate Professor in the WVU School of Medicine, and Executive Director for Rural Programs at the WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health. Larry started life in Nitro, West Virginia, then took his studies and practice all the way to Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, but country roads took him home. The two discuss leadership and service in and for our rural communities, providing inspiration for those at the bedside and far beyond!  

The in the Rooted in the Mountain State segment Commissioner of Agriculture for West Virginia Kent Leonhardt talks about his departments work with the federal EPA.  

Doug Bentz one the most progressive hospital administrators in West Virginia talks about the work of the quality committee at the West Virginia Hospital Association which he chairs.  Doug talks about how competing hospitals work together in ensure patient safety including reducing infections from the overuse of anti-biotics. This effort improves outcomes and reduces costs.  

Every January there is tourism and history day at the state capitol in Charleston. Tom Susman talked with some of those participating in the day.  He talked with individuals from Fort Ashby, Charlestown and Arthurdale.]]>1790agriculture,arthurdale,berkleyspringscvb,epa,health,history,newdeal,roanegeneral,wvdepartmentofag,wvha,wvu,wvumedicinefalse34fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-tony-the-tailor-hunting-and-fishing-entrepreneurs-and-business-leadership--69579022General Hoyer sits down with Brian Dayton, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce. Brian and the General Brian talk about leadership lessons, share perspectives on economic and workforce development opportunities, and Brian gives listeners a glimpse into how the Chamber of Commerce advocates for working West Virginians.

Tony Paranzino is a tailor in Charleston, and he operates a men’s story called Tony the Tailor he grew up in the business. We talk with Tony about his store and get the background on tailoring and men’s clothing.  

People in our region love to hunt and fish. Many people have taken that love and started a business. Tom Susman stopped by the West Virginia Hunting a Fishing Show to talk with some of the vendors who made their hobby a business, including one gentleman who tans hides and sells the furs including Mountaineer Caps.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69579022Sun, 25 Jan 2026 10:29:18 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Brian Dayton, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce. Brian and the General Brian talk about leadership lessons, share perspectives on economic and...General Hoyer sits down with Brian Dayton, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce. Brian and the General Brian talk about leadership lessons, share perspectives on economic and workforce development opportunities, and Brian gives listeners a glimpse into how the Chamber of Commerce advocates for working West Virginians.

Tony Paranzino is a tailor in Charleston, and he operates a men’s story called Tony the Tailor he grew up in the business. We talk with Tony about his store and get the background on tailoring and men’s clothing.  

People in our region love to hunt and fish. Many people have taken that love and started a business. Tom Susman stopped by the West Virginia Hunting a Fishing Show to talk with some of the vendors who made their hobby a business, including one gentleman who tans hides and sells the furs including Mountaineer Caps.]]>1791appalachia,fishing,hunting,leadership,tonythetailor,wvchamber,wvdnrfalse33fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-mary-s-table-mountain-juice-selling-ideas-and-hospital-concerns--69497348At the Leadership Table, we’re turning the mic over to the next generation of leaders in a special student-led takeover. Mary Roush, “Retired" WVU Mountaineer Mascot, takes the host seat to interview Retired Major General Jim Hoyer with questions that she and the WVU PIC Lab student team wanted to ask to truly get to know the General beyond the title.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Lisa Smith and the Mountain Juice Company.   

There are more lobbyists at the state capitol than legislators, we talk with three lobbyists to find out what they actually do. The three are Chris Hall of Orion Strategies, Pat Cadle who represents plaintiff attorneys and Tom Huber who represents landowners.  

Hospitals are the largest employers in many communities, their economic impact is significant to the state. Tom Susman talks with David Goldberg who is CEO of MonHealth and Davis Health, Executive Vice President for Vandalia Health and serves as Chair of the West Virginia Hospital Association. David discusses the Rural Health Transformation grant the state received as well as the $1 billion dollars in cuts to healthcare in West Virginia due to President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill that was adopted by congress this past summer.   ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69497348Sun, 18 Jan 2026 16:27:00 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, we’re turning the mic over to the next generation of leaders in a special student-led takeover. Mary Roush, “Retired" WVU Mountaineer Mascot, takes the host seat to interview Retired Major General Jim Hoyer with...At the Leadership Table, we’re turning the mic over to the next generation of leaders in a special student-led takeover. Mary Roush, “Retired" WVU Mountaineer Mascot, takes the host seat to interview Retired Major General Jim Hoyer with questions that she and the WVU PIC Lab student team wanted to ask to truly get to know the General beyond the title.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we will learn about Lisa Smith and the Mountain Juice Company.   

There are more lobbyists at the state capitol than legislators, we talk with three lobbyists to find out what they actually do. The three are Chris Hall of Orion Strategies, Pat Cadle who represents plaintiff attorneys and Tom Huber who represents landowners.  

Hospitals are the largest employers in many communities, their economic impact is significant to the state. Tom Susman talks with David Goldberg who is CEO of MonHealth and Davis Health, Executive Vice President for Vandalia Health and serves as Chair of the West Virginia Hospital Association. David discusses the Rural Health Transformation grant the state received as well as the $1 billion dollars in cuts to healthcare in West Virginia due to President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill that was adopted by congress this past summer.   ]]>1791agriculture,appapalachia,bigbeautifulbill,hospital,leadership,naturalgas,wahama,wvlegisfalse32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/painting-the-raven-covering-politics-meet-the-deputy-comish-and-a-special-look-back--69391039General Jim Hoyer looks back at some stand out moments for the segment from 2025 and looks forward to 2026.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we meet Amy Minor Richards the Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture.  

The West Virginia Legislature convenes in January most years. The main way citizens find out what is happening under the dome is through the reporting of journalists.  Steven Allen Adams is one of the deans of the West Virginia Press Corp and he talks about how he reports on the legislature. Steven is the statewide political correspondent for Ogden Newspapers.  

Ravenswood Downtown Partners has embarked on a public art project to paint a mural. Unlike other organizations this allows for residents to actually pitch in a paint the mural. We talk with Molly Washburn who is coordinating the effort. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69391039Sun, 11 Jan 2026 16:24:39 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn At the Leadership Table, General Jim Hoyer looks back at some stand out moments for the segment from 2025 and looks forward to 2026.   In the Rooted in the Mountain State from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we meet Amy Minor Richards...General Jim Hoyer looks back at some stand out moments for the segment from 2025 and looks forward to 2026.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, we meet Amy Minor Richards the Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture.  

The West Virginia Legislature convenes in January most years. The main way citizens find out what is happening under the dome is through the reporting of journalists.  Steven Allen Adams is one of the deans of the West Virginia Press Corp and he talks about how he reports on the legislature. Steven is the statewide political correspondent for Ogden Newspapers.  

Ravenswood Downtown Partners has embarked on a public art project to paint a mural. Unlike other organizations this allows for residents to actually pitch in a paint the mural. We talk with Molly Washburn who is coordinating the effort. ]]>1791appalachia,farm,mural,raven,ravenswood,wv,wvdeptofag,wvlegisfalse31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/christmas-in-the-past-scout-leadership-getting-your-affairs-in-order-and-an-ag-update--69151496At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Sarah Fox, an Air Force veteran and current Director of Fundraising and Marketing for Scouting America’s Mountaineer Area Council. Sarah reflects on her service as an Air Force medic and discusses how that experience and her civilian career drive her commitment to serving and mentoring the next generation of leaders.  

As we come to the end of the year in the Rooted in the Mountain provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Commissioner of  Agriculture Kent Leonhardt provides a year-end review of what his department has been involved in 2025  

In our third segment Tom Susman sits down with lawyer Ceason Ranson of Ripley to talk about estate planning. As we end the year it makes sense to take stock in of your estate planning. It’s not difficult but there are some matters you want to address before you get sick or pass away.  It only fair that you provide a roadmap for your family.  

In our final segment Tom Susman talks with David Sibray of the online magazine WV Explorer about what Christmas was like in our region in days gone by. Our conversation then went to holiday traditions and with bothTom and David  growing up in Beckley they both remember a community holiday tradition from thier childhood.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69151496Sun, 21 Dec 2025 13:10:10 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Sarah Fox, an Air Force veteran and current Director of Fundraising and Marketing for Scouting America’s Mountaineer Area Council. Sarah reflects on her service as an Air Force medic and...At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Sarah Fox, an Air Force veteran and current Director of Fundraising and Marketing for Scouting America’s Mountaineer Area Council. Sarah reflects on her service as an Air Force medic and discusses how that experience and her civilian career drive her commitment to serving and mentoring the next generation of leaders.  

As we come to the end of the year in the Rooted in the Mountain provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Commissioner of  Agriculture Kent Leonhardt provides a year-end review of what his department has been involved in 2025  

In our third segment Tom Susman sits down with lawyer Ceason Ranson of Ripley to talk about estate planning. As we end the year it makes sense to take stock in of your estate planning. It’s not difficult but there are some matters you want to address before you get sick or pass away.  It only fair that you provide a roadmap for your family.  

In our final segment Tom Susman talks with David Sibray of the online magazine WV Explorer about what Christmas was like in our region in days gone by. Our conversation then went to holiday traditions and with bothTom and David  growing up in Beckley they both remember a community holiday tradition from thier childhood.]]>1790agriculture,appalachia,beckley,boyscouts,christmas,estate,powerofattorney,santa,santaonthebank,willfalse245fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holiday-stress-goats-in-wayne-helping-those-with-no-health-insurance-and-federal-help-for-farmers--69041300
When we think of farming we may think of crops like corn or soybeans with livestock it may be cattle or swine. Many in our region raise goats and do well with them. In The Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a goat farm on Wayne County.  

Christmas is upon us now; we have certain expectations for the holiday season. Many times, those expectations exceed reality. Life is not a Hallmark Movie. To better help us all manage our feelings, expectations and maybe depression this season I reached out to Doctor Jessica Bradley who is a professor at the Marshall University of School of Medicine and practices with Marshall Health, for advice and tools to cope with holiday stress and expectations.  

In our final segment West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt talks about a one-time federal bailout for farmers impacted by President Trump’s Tariffs. The president and other recently announced the program.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69041300Sun, 14 Dec 2025 13:22:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Angie Settle, CEO at West Virginia Health Right. Angie has served thousands of West Virginians as a nurse practitioner, care coordinator and leader. They discuss Angie’s perspectives on the role...
When we think of farming we may think of crops like corn or soybeans with livestock it may be cattle or swine. Many in our region raise goats and do well with them. In The Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a goat farm on Wayne County.  

Christmas is upon us now; we have certain expectations for the holiday season. Many times, those expectations exceed reality. Life is not a Hallmark Movie. To better help us all manage our feelings, expectations and maybe depression this season I reached out to Doctor Jessica Bradley who is a professor at the Marshall University of School of Medicine and practices with Marshall Health, for advice and tools to cope with holiday stress and expectations.  

In our final segment West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt talks about a one-time federal bailout for farmers impacted by President Trump’s Tariffs. The president and other recently announced the program.]]>1791aca,agriculture,appalachia,christmas,farmers,holiday,leadership,stress,tarriffs,wvhealthright,wvngfalse244fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/christmas-trees-lavender-products-deer-and-banking--68931666Jim Hoyer this week, David Thomas, President & CEO of Clear Mountain Bank joins the general. He is this year’s chair for the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. They discuss the importance of building a great team, the role of community banks in contributing to economic development, and how the United Way positively impacts our communities at the local level.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about Appalachian Botanical Company in Boone County West Virginia. Just in time for Christmas.  

We are all looking for that perfect Christmas tree and we also want to be sure it stays green until we take it down after new year’s. To find out about Christmas Trees, Tom Susman stopped by the Capitol Market in Charleston to learn more and he talked with Eric Metcalf of French Creek Tree Farm.  

In our final report Tom Susman talks with Paul Johansen about the deer harvest in West Virginia.  There has been a lot of concern with the EHD Disease in the Mid-Ohio Valley Region and believe it or not too many acorns impact the deer harvest. Paul is Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section for the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68931666Sun, 07 Dec 2025 18:57:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week, David Thomas, President & CEO of Clear Mountain Bank joins the general. He is this year’s chair for the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. They discuss the...Jim Hoyer this week, David Thomas, President & CEO of Clear Mountain Bank joins the general. He is this year’s chair for the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. They discuss the importance of building a great team, the role of community banks in contributing to economic development, and how the United Way positively impacts our communities at the local level.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about Appalachian Botanical Company in Boone County West Virginia. Just in time for Christmas.  

We are all looking for that perfect Christmas tree and we also want to be sure it stays green until we take it down after new year’s. To find out about Christmas Trees, Tom Susman stopped by the Capitol Market in Charleston to learn more and he talked with Eric Metcalf of French Creek Tree Farm.  

In our final report Tom Susman talks with Paul Johansen about the deer harvest in West Virginia.  There has been a lot of concern with the EHD Disease in the Mid-Ohio Valley Region and believe it or not too many acorns impact the deer harvest. Paul is Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section for the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.    ]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,christmas,christmastree,deer,ehd,lavenderfalse243fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/best-of-episode-healthy-kids-winning-farm-harness-racing--68808148
This week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and explains why it's about more than food security — it's about ensuring nutrition security too.   

The Casto Family Farm in Jackson County received the Heritage Farm Award presented by the West Virginia Farm Bureau and the State Fair of WV. We hear from Joe Casto about the farm.  

Harness Racing in the Buckeye State is a big deal. Tom Susman files a report where he talks with a several individuals involved in the sport. Including a gentleman Roger Houston that has called more harness races than anyone. Many of these races are held during county fairs, the interviews were recorded at the Historic Rock Springs Track at the Meigs County Fair.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68808148Sun, 30 Nov 2025 16:44:41 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerBeing Thanksgiving week this is  best of episode. This week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and...
This week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and explains why it's about more than food security — it's about ensuring nutrition security too.   

The Casto Family Farm in Jackson County received the Heritage Farm Award presented by the West Virginia Farm Bureau and the State Fair of WV. We hear from Joe Casto about the farm.  

Harness Racing in the Buckeye State is a big deal. Tom Susman files a report where he talks with a several individuals involved in the sport. Including a gentleman Roger Houston that has called more harness races than anyone. Many of these races are held during county fairs, the interviews were recorded at the Historic Rock Springs Track at the Meigs County Fair.]]>1788falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/goodbye-hemp-making-success-with-freeze-dried-food-feeding-the-hungry-and-a-county-singer-making-the-big-time--68706985Goodbye Hemp, Making Success with Freeze Dried Food, Feeding the Hungry and a County Singer Making the Big Time  

This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer hosts veteran and entrepreneur Coleman Erwin of Harvest Trails Company. They discuss Coleman's military journey to West Virginia, how this outdoors-loving family man and military nurse got into the freeze-dried fruits and vegetables business, and his passion for supporting local farmers, local food security, and the community of Hedgesville.
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we learn about Hunters Helping the Hungry.  

Mathew Adam is an aspiring country singer from Meigs County and we talk with him about his music and his life.

The federal government in the bill to reopen the federal government added a provision that will make mist hemp products illegal. This will impact most hemp retailers and farmers in our region. Tom Susman talked with Amy Minor of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture about the changes and the impact.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68706985Sun, 23 Nov 2025 16:25:00 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerGoodbye Hemp, Making Success with Freeze Dried Food, Feeding the Hungry and a County Singer Making the Big Time   This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer hosts veteran and entrepreneur Coleman Erwin of Harvest Trails Company. They...Goodbye Hemp, Making Success with Freeze Dried Food, Feeding the Hungry and a County Singer Making the Big Time  

This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer hosts veteran and entrepreneur Coleman Erwin of Harvest Trails Company. They discuss Coleman's military journey to West Virginia, how this outdoors-loving family man and military nurse got into the freeze-dried fruits and vegetables business, and his passion for supporting local farmers, local food security, and the community of Hedgesville.
 
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we learn about Hunters Helping the Hungry.  

Mathew Adam is an aspiring country singer from Meigs County and we talk with him about his music and his life.

The federal government in the bill to reopen the federal government added a provision that will make mist hemp products illegal. This will impact most hemp retailers and farmers in our region. Tom Susman talked with Amy Minor of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture about the changes and the impact.    ]]>1776appalachia,countrysinger,delta8,delta9,farm,hemp,hunger,mathewadam,nashvillefalse242fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ohio-limits-deer-salute-to-veterans-helping-those-in-need-becoming-an-auctioneer--68591115General Hoyer sits down with Liz Vitullo, Assistant Vice President for Economic Innovation at West Virginia University. She is co-founder of the WV Grant Resource Centers, program director for the Chambers Elite Climbers, and director of strategic initiatives for the West Virginia Cyber-Resilience Resource Center. They discuss her journey to service at Pantry Plus More in Morgantown and how you and your family can get involved with their "reverse advent" giving program this holiday season.

Have you ever wanted to be an auctioneer in West Virginia? I enjoy listening to the pro like Bobby Cooper out of Ripley or Dean Blackburn from Ohio who always does the Meigs County Fair. In this weeks Rooted in the Mountain state from the WV department of agriculture we will learn about the auctioneer exam and background on becoming an auctioneer.  

The disease EHD has significantly reduced the deer heard in Athens, Meigs and Washington Counites in Ohio along with Mason, Jackson, and Wood in West Virginia. Unlike WV, Ohio is taking steps to preserve the deer heard and that means a reduction in deer bag limits. We will talk with Scott Gardner of the Ohio DNR.  

Veterans Day is November 11 each year and the day recognizes the contributions of all veterans in America. The town of Ripely each year has a parade and reads off the names of Jackson country veterans. We will hear a report from WMOV.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68591115Sun, 16 Nov 2025 16:19:29 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week, At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Liz Vitullo, Assistant Vice President for Economic Innovation at West Virginia University. She is co-founder of the WV Grant Resource Centers, program director for the Chambers Elite...General Hoyer sits down with Liz Vitullo, Assistant Vice President for Economic Innovation at West Virginia University. She is co-founder of the WV Grant Resource Centers, program director for the Chambers Elite Climbers, and director of strategic initiatives for the West Virginia Cyber-Resilience Resource Center. They discuss her journey to service at Pantry Plus More in Morgantown and how you and your family can get involved with their "reverse advent" giving program this holiday season.

Have you ever wanted to be an auctioneer in West Virginia? I enjoy listening to the pro like Bobby Cooper out of Ripley or Dean Blackburn from Ohio who always does the Meigs County Fair. In this weeks Rooted in the Mountain state from the WV department of agriculture we will learn about the auctioneer exam and background on becoming an auctioneer.  

The disease EHD has significantly reduced the deer heard in Athens, Meigs and Washington Counites in Ohio along with Mason, Jackson, and Wood in West Virginia. Unlike WV, Ohio is taking steps to preserve the deer heard and that means a reduction in deer bag limits. We will talk with Scott Gardner of the Ohio DNR.  

Veterans Day is November 11 each year and the day recognizes the contributions of all veterans in America. The town of Ripely each year has a parade and reads off the names of Jackson country veterans. We will hear a report from WMOV.]]>1789appalachia,deer,ehd,odnr,veterans,wvdeptofag,wvdnr,wvufalse241fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/veterans-day-2024-special-episode-revisted--68485794
This week’s podcast is dedicated to  Veterans  and Veterans Day.  

At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans. Mara is an army veteran and former state director for Senator US Senator Joe Manchin, and she heads up the Charleston Area Alliance, Ken is also an army veteran who served Afghanistan and now serves in the Army National Guard. The Boggs live in Charleston.

We will learn about the Department of Agricultures, Veterans to Hero’s to Agriculture program.  

Ever wondered what the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?  Brian McCommon of Morgantown is also a member of the WV Army National Guard and is a protocol officer and he discusses the origins and meaning of Veteran’s Day.    

Veterans day is about cherishing and thanking all veterans and one Ohio River Community is doing just that and we will learn more from Bob Wing who is with the Mason County Veterans Memorial Committee.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68485794Sun, 09 Nov 2025 15:28:54 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis is a previously aired episode from Veterans Day week last year. This week’s podcast is dedicated to  Veterans  and Veterans Day.   At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans....
This week’s podcast is dedicated to  Veterans  and Veterans Day.  

At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans. Mara is an army veteran and former state director for Senator US Senator Joe Manchin, and she heads up the Charleston Area Alliance, Ken is also an army veteran who served Afghanistan and now serves in the Army National Guard. The Boggs live in Charleston.

We will learn about the Department of Agricultures, Veterans to Hero’s to Agriculture program.  

Ever wondered what the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?  Brian McCommon of Morgantown is also a member of the WV Army National Guard and is a protocol officer and he discusses the origins and meaning of Veteran’s Day.    

Veterans day is about cherishing and thanking all veterans and one Ohio River Community is doing just that and we will learn more from Bob Wing who is with the Mason County Veterans Memorial Committee.]]>1790false240fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/christmas-in-the-mountain-state-open-enrollment-and-leadership-in-aerospace--68386378Josh Walsh, Vice President of Programs for Sierra Nevada Corporation, where he focuses on mission solutions, technologies, and operations. Josh was born and raised in southern West Virginia and is a proud graduate of Marshall University. They discuss his extensive experience in aerospace/defense and the military along with perspectives on leading with heart and passion for supporting West Virginians.

It is open enrollment for Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and we talk with Attorney and Medicare expert Andy Richardson of Charleston about what  those over 65 and above should consider when making a choice.  

Just in time for the Christmas Holiday Logan native Chad Story has written a children’s Christmas book about West Virginia. The title is Christmas in the Mountain State. Tom Susman talks with Chad about the story and why Chad undertook the project.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68386378Sun, 02 Nov 2025 11:40:32 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week, At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Josh Walsh, Vice President of Programs for Sierra Nevada Corporation, where he focuses on mission solutions, technologies, and operations. Josh was born and raised in southern West...Josh Walsh, Vice President of Programs for Sierra Nevada Corporation, where he focuses on mission solutions, technologies, and operations. Josh was born and raised in southern West Virginia and is a proud graduate of Marshall University. They discuss his extensive experience in aerospace/defense and the military along with perspectives on leading with heart and passion for supporting West Virginians.

It is open enrollment for Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and we talk with Attorney and Medicare expert Andy Richardson of Charleston about what  those over 65 and above should consider when making a choice.  

Just in time for the Christmas Holiday Logan native Chad Story has written a children’s Christmas book about West Virginia. The title is Christmas in the Mountain State. Tom Susman talks with Chad about the story and why Chad undertook the project.]]>1791christmas,christmasinthemountainstate,health,logan,medicare,medicareadvantage,wva,wvngfalse239fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pumpkins-looking-to-ski-season-colonoscopy-replacement-leadership-from-logan-county--68285809David McCormick, owner of the Morgantown-based business Omega Commercial Interiors, and a Representative for the 82nd District in the West Virginia House of Delegates. They discuss David's journey from growing up sweeping floors and tying bowties at Logan County’s historic McCormick's store to his career today as a West Virginia business owner and representative of the people. David also shares some of his keys to success for aspiring West Virginia business owners.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will learn about the Pumpkin House in Wayne County.  

Sam Asgarian, Vice President of Clinical Development — Screening, Guardant Health joins us to explain anew blood test that may replace the need for the dreaded colonoscopy for many.  

Preston Cline is with Snowshoe Mountain and in our final segment he talks with Tom Susman about what Snowshoe is doing to get ready for Ski Season and what you need to do to get ready for the upcoming season.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68285809Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:55:11 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At The Leadership, Table, General Hoyer sits down with David McCormick, owner of the Morgantown-based business Omega Commercial Interiors, and a Representative for the 82nd District in the West Virginia House of Delegates. They discuss...David McCormick, owner of the Morgantown-based business Omega Commercial Interiors, and a Representative for the 82nd District in the West Virginia House of Delegates. They discuss David's journey from growing up sweeping floors and tying bowties at Logan County’s historic McCormick's store to his career today as a West Virginia business owner and representative of the people. David also shares some of his keys to success for aspiring West Virginia business owners.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will learn about the Pumpkin House in Wayne County.  

Sam Asgarian, Vice President of Clinical Development — Screening, Guardant Health joins us to explain anew blood test that may replace the need for the dreaded colonoscopy for many.  

Preston Cline is with Snowshoe Mountain and in our final segment he talks with Tom Susman about what Snowshoe is doing to get ready for Ski Season and what you need to do to get ready for the upcoming season.  ]]>1833appalachia,colonoscopy,logan,pumpkinhouse,ski,snowshoe,travelwv,wvlegis,wvngfalse238fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cash-may-be-waiting-for-you-spotted-lantern-fly-primer-get-your-mammogram-leadership--68194132Cash May Be Waiting for You, Spotted Lantern Fly Primer, Get Your Mammogram & Leadership  

At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Jason Ashworth, Chief Safety Officer, and Nurse Practitioner for Valley Health Network. They discuss Jason’s meaningful career path, marked by a deep commitment to protecting and serving others, including his involvement and impact with the Hershel "Woody" Williams Fisher House in Huntington.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State, we learn about Spotted Lantern Flies and how to prevent them. 

The State Treasury in West Virginia operates the state’s unclaimed property program. You may have money waiting for you. We talk with WV State Treasurer Larry Pack about the program and how folks can get their money back.  

The final segment Tom Susman talks with Ginger Denny of Rivers Health Hospital about October being breast cancer awareness month.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68194132Sun, 19 Oct 2025 14:29:52 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerCash May Be Waiting for You, Spotted Lantern Fly Primer, Get Your Mammogram & Leadership   At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Jason Ashworth, Chief Safety Officer, and Nurse Practitioner for Valley Health Network. They discuss...Cash May Be Waiting for You, Spotted Lantern Fly Primer, Get Your Mammogram & Leadership  

At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Jason Ashworth, Chief Safety Officer, and Nurse Practitioner for Valley Health Network. They discuss Jason’s meaningful career path, marked by a deep commitment to protecting and serving others, including his involvement and impact with the Hershel "Woody" Williams Fisher House in Huntington.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State, we learn about Spotted Lantern Flies and how to prevent them. 

The State Treasury in West Virginia operates the state’s unclaimed property program. You may have money waiting for you. We talk with WV State Treasurer Larry Pack about the program and how folks can get their money back.  

The final segment Tom Susman talks with Ginger Denny of Rivers Health Hospital about October being breast cancer awareness month.]]>1791appalachia,breastcancer,cancer,cash,larrypack,mammogram,pink,unclaimed,unclaimedproperty,wvdeptofagfalse237fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/child-care-shortage-ehd-update-hutson-talks-leadership-and-school-to-farm--68108512Child Care Shortage, EHD Update, Hutson Talks Leadership and School to Farm

This week’s Appalachia Matter:   At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Rusty Hutson, Co-Founder and CEO of Diversified Energy Company and current Chair of the West Virginia University Board of Governors. They discuss leadership experiences and goals to help shape and inspire the next generation of West Virginians. 

The WV Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State focuses on farm to school programs and a conference in Morgantown. 

Tom Susman talks with deer hunting expert Kevin Harris who gives us a on the ground discussion about the deer EHD outbreak along the Ohio River that will impact the deer hunting season.  

In the final segment we will hear about childcare care needs in today’s economy. Tom Susman talks with Brian Dayton of the West Virginia State Chamber of Commerce. Tom also attended a groundbreaking for a new Childcare Center at Holzer Hospital. He talks with Holzer CEO Rodney Stout and Holzer Board Chair Gary Roach]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68108512Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:13:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerChild Care Shortage, EHD Update, Hutson Talks Leadership and School to Farm This week’s Appalachia Matter:   At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Rusty Hutson, Co-Founder and CEO of Diversified Energy Company and current Chair of the...Child Care Shortage, EHD Update, Hutson Talks Leadership and School to Farm

This week’s Appalachia Matter:   At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Rusty Hutson, Co-Founder and CEO of Diversified Energy Company and current Chair of the West Virginia University Board of Governors. They discuss leadership experiences and goals to help shape and inspire the next generation of West Virginians. 

The WV Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State focuses on farm to school programs and a conference in Morgantown. 

Tom Susman talks with deer hunting expert Kevin Harris who gives us a on the ground discussion about the deer EHD outbreak along the Ohio River that will impact the deer hunting season.  

In the final segment we will hear about childcare care needs in today’s economy. Tom Susman talks with Brian Dayton of the West Virginia State Chamber of Commerce. Tom also attended a groundbreaking for a new Childcare Center at Holzer Hospital. He talks with Holzer CEO Rodney Stout and Holzer Board Chair Gary Roach]]>1791appalachia,childcare,diversified,ehd,holzer,wvdeptofag,wvng,wvufalse236fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/battle-of-point-pleasant-young-leaders-flu-shot-time-and-agritourisim--68023915Gracie Johnson and Megan Osborne, two Clay County, WV natives who are interns with the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2) IGNITE Interns Program at Fort Andrew in Lizemore, WV. They discuss their journeys as IGNITE interns and their hopes for shaping a brighter future for generations of West Virginians.

In the rooted in the Mountain State segment from the department of agriculture we will learn about individual who are involved in agritourism. This is becoming a big business in West Virginia it provides an additional revenue stream for family farmers.

The flu and cold seasons are upon us and there are steps you can take to protect yourself. I talk with Amy Haskins who is administrator of the Jackson County Health Department and secretary of the association of local health departments in West Virginia.  

The Battle of Point Pleasant was in some folks minds the first battle of the American Revolution and  to commemorate the battle,  at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park in Point Pleasant there is a Battle Days reembrance. There are educational programs reenactors and special memorial service to pay homage to those who died on the site over 250 years ago.  We  talk with Ed Cromley of Mason County, he provides background on the battle and the memorial service.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68023915Sun, 05 Oct 2025 23:40:25 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Gracie Johnson and Megan Osborne, two Clay County, WV natives who are interns with the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2) IGNITE Interns Program at Fort Andrew in Lizemore, WV. They discuss...Gracie Johnson and Megan Osborne, two Clay County, WV natives who are interns with the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2) IGNITE Interns Program at Fort Andrew in Lizemore, WV. They discuss their journeys as IGNITE interns and their hopes for shaping a brighter future for generations of West Virginians.

In the rooted in the Mountain State segment from the department of agriculture we will learn about individual who are involved in agritourism. This is becoming a big business in West Virginia it provides an additional revenue stream for family farmers.

The flu and cold seasons are upon us and there are steps you can take to protect yourself. I talk with Amy Haskins who is administrator of the Jackson County Health Department and secretary of the association of local health departments in West Virginia.  

The Battle of Point Pleasant was in some folks minds the first battle of the American Revolution and  to commemorate the battle,  at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park in Point Pleasant there is a Battle Days reembrance. There are educational programs reenactors and special memorial service to pay homage to those who died on the site over 250 years ago.  We  talk with Ed Cromley of Mason County, he provides background on the battle and the memorial service.  ]]>1787agritourisim,appalachia,battleofpointpleasant,flu,rsv,wvdepofag,wvng,wvufalse235fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sternwheel-fun-wvdnr-on-ehd-young-leader-jarhead-and-an-aca-issue--67930358Jim Hoyer sits down with Brogan Dozier, a young leader and graduate student at West Virginia University and a graduate intern with West Virginia VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster). They discuss how her previous roles in student government and interning with a U.S. Senator led her to find a passion for service - and how she is using that passion for good in the Mountain State.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the WV Department of Agriculture we learn about Jarhead Farms in Alderson operated by a Marine and her family.  

EHD is killing deer in West Virginia and Ohio. We talk with the WVDNR about the disease and their response. Last week we talked with Ohio and it appears the Mountain State approach is more laid back then the Buckeye State.

If you purchase health insurance from the federal market place your premiums may skyrocket if congress does not renew a tax credit. Jeremy Smith an ACA Navigator explains what may be ahead. 

Jim Krantz worked in health care. He has retired and now is spending lot of time on his Sternwheeler. Tom Susman caught up with him at the Pomeroy Regatta. He and wife are living their best life on the river.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67930358Sun, 28 Sep 2025 14:39:25 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, Retired Major General Jim Hoyer sits down with Brogan Dozier, a young leader and graduate student at West Virginia University and a graduate intern with West Virginia VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in...Jim Hoyer sits down with Brogan Dozier, a young leader and graduate student at West Virginia University and a graduate intern with West Virginia VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster). They discuss how her previous roles in student government and interning with a U.S. Senator led her to find a passion for service - and how she is using that passion for good in the Mountain State.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the WV Department of Agriculture we learn about Jarhead Farms in Alderson operated by a Marine and her family.  

EHD is killing deer in West Virginia and Ohio. We talk with the WVDNR about the disease and their response. Last week we talked with Ohio and it appears the Mountain State approach is more laid back then the Buckeye State.

If you purchase health insurance from the federal market place your premiums may skyrocket if congress does not renew a tax credit. Jeremy Smith an ACA Navigator explains what may be ahead. 

Jim Krantz worked in health care. He has retired and now is spending lot of time on his Sternwheeler. Tom Susman caught up with him at the Pomeroy Regatta. He and wife are living their best life on the river.    ]]>1786aca,appalachia,ehd,farming,jarhead,kanawha,marine,marketplace,ohioriver,regatta,strenwheeler,veteran,wvdeptofag,wvdnrfalse234fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gold-star-month-cooper-s-farm-disease-impacting-deer-and-great-gift-boxes--67839737Gold Star Month, Cooper’s Farm, Disease Impacting Deer and Great Gift Boxes    

This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, in honor of Gold Star Families Month, the General reflects on a look-back interview with Stan and Shirley White. Gold Star Families have lost a loved one who made the ultimate sacrifice because of their military service. The General provides some powerful commentary on the deep loss that Gold Star Families feel and he encourages us all to reach out to a Gold Star Family, thank them for their service, and speak their child’s name to honor their sacrifice. Stan and Shirley lost two sons as a result of their service - learn more about their story and Gold Star Families in this week's segment and watch the full interview on the General’s YouTube channel by searching RMGHoyer on YouTube. 

The Cooper Family has built an amazing farm, and we will learn about their endeavor in the Rooted in The Mountain State segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

 EHD, or Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease is impacting deer herds in Meigs, Washington and Athens Counties in Ohio. Tom Susman speaks with Chris Smith a biologist with the ODNR. The state may reduce the deer bag limit this year.    

Advantage Valley is working with several producers and growers to market their products in various gift boxes. We will learn more about this effort in our final segment.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67839737Sun, 21 Sep 2025 14:33:12 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerGold Star Month, Cooper’s Farm, Disease Impacting Deer and Great Gift Boxes     This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, in honor of Gold Star Families Month, the General reflects on a look-back interview with Stan...Gold Star Month, Cooper’s Farm, Disease Impacting Deer and Great Gift Boxes    

This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, in honor of Gold Star Families Month, the General reflects on a look-back interview with Stan and Shirley White. Gold Star Families have lost a loved one who made the ultimate sacrifice because of their military service. The General provides some powerful commentary on the deep loss that Gold Star Families feel and he encourages us all to reach out to a Gold Star Family, thank them for their service, and speak their child’s name to honor their sacrifice. Stan and Shirley lost two sons as a result of their service - learn more about their story and Gold Star Families in this week's segment and watch the full interview on the General’s YouTube channel by searching RMGHoyer on YouTube. 

The Cooper Family has built an amazing farm, and we will learn about their endeavor in the Rooted in The Mountain State segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

 EHD, or Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease is impacting deer herds in Meigs, Washington and Athens Counties in Ohio. Tom Susman speaks with Chris Smith a biologist with the ODNR. The state may reduce the deer bag limit this year.    

Advantage Valley is working with several producers and growers to market their products in various gift boxes. We will learn more about this effort in our final segment.]]>1789appalachia,christmasgift,deer,ehd,farming,goldstarmom,tasteofappalachia,wvgrownfalse233fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/margret-and-the-united-way-angie-and-wv-healthright-raising-bees-life-lessons-and-a-side-hussle--67752704
At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Margaret O'Neal, President of United Way of Central West Virginia.  

In the Rooted in The Mountain State, we replay a segment from October 2024 about honey and bees.  

Angie Settle CEO of West Virginia Healthright talks with Tom Susman. We learn about the region’s largest free and charitable clinic, what drives Settle and about a special one day clinic.  

In our fourth segment we meet a person who taught himself to make signs and now has a business. The interview is from this past July.  

As we finish up we will hear from two high golf coaches who believe members of their teams not only compete but learn life lessons from the sport]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67752704Sun, 14 Sep 2025 11:43:04 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on Appalachia Matters     At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Margaret O'Neal, President of United Way of Central West Virginia.   In the Rooted in The Mountain State, we replay a segment from October 2024 about honey and...
At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Margaret O'Neal, President of United Way of Central West Virginia.  

In the Rooted in The Mountain State, we replay a segment from October 2024 about honey and bees.  

Angie Settle CEO of West Virginia Healthright talks with Tom Susman. We learn about the region’s largest free and charitable clinic, what drives Settle and about a special one day clinic.  

In our fourth segment we meet a person who taught himself to make signs and now has a business. The interview is from this past July.  

As we finish up we will hear from two high golf coaches who believe members of their teams not only compete but learn life lessons from the sport]]>1792appalachia,golf,health,unitedwaycentralwv,wvdeptofag,wvhealthright,wvssacfalse232fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/raynes-has-the-reins-at-marshall-health-cyber-security-and-organic-wv-eggs--67662870Major General Jim Hoyer, we hear from Fanta-Marie Toure, a West Virginia educated social media influencer in cybersecurity. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the Department of Agriculture we will learn about an organic egg producer in the state of West Virginia called Hamilton’s Lonesome Ridge Farm. 

In our final segment Tom Susman sits down with Scott Raynes he is the CEO of Marshal Health Network which includes,  the former Saint Marys and Cabell Huntington Hospitals along with Rivers Health in Point Pleasant and several providers and locations throughout southern and western West Virginia.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67662870Sun, 07 Sep 2025 13:06:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, we hear from Fanta-Marie Toure, a West Virginia educated social media influencer in cybersecurity.  In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the Department of Agriculture we...Major General Jim Hoyer, we hear from Fanta-Marie Toure, a West Virginia educated social media influencer in cybersecurity. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the Department of Agriculture we will learn about an organic egg producer in the state of West Virginia called Hamilton’s Lonesome Ridge Farm. 

In our final segment Tom Susman sits down with Scott Raynes he is the CEO of Marshal Health Network which includes,  the former Saint Marys and Cabell Huntington Hospitals along with Rivers Health in Point Pleasant and several providers and locations throughout southern and western West Virginia.]]>1791appalachia,cybersecurity,health,marshallhealth,marshalluniversity,wvfalse231fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wvu-medicine-s-albert-wright-jr-s-vision-and-andy-henthorn-talks-with-the-general--67569954General Hoyer sits down with Andy Henthorn, CEO of Buddy N Beast, a dog treat company in St. Albans, West Virginia. In this segment, Andy discusses his journey that took him to starting a business, what makes West Virginia the ideal place for entrepreneurs, and the role West Virginia local communities play in local leadership.   

In an extended interview Tom Susman talks with Albert Wright CEO of WVU Medicine which is the one of largest private employer in the state. The company has 25 hospitals, many clinics across the state and has invested billions to build and upgrade the systems infrastructure.  They have even formed their own insurance company Peak Health. We will get to know Albert, the WVU System and Discuss what health care must do to thrive in the post big, beautiful bill era.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67569954Sun, 31 Aug 2025 11:08:01 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week at the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Andy Henthorn, CEO of Buddy N Beast, a dog treat company in St. Albans, West Virginia. In this segment, Andy discusses his journey that took him to starting a business, what makes West...General Hoyer sits down with Andy Henthorn, CEO of Buddy N Beast, a dog treat company in St. Albans, West Virginia. In this segment, Andy discusses his journey that took him to starting a business, what makes West Virginia the ideal place for entrepreneurs, and the role West Virginia local communities play in local leadership.   

In an extended interview Tom Susman talks with Albert Wright CEO of WVU Medicine which is the one of largest private employer in the state. The company has 25 hospitals, many clinics across the state and has invested billions to build and upgrade the systems infrastructure.  They have even formed their own insurance company Peak Health. We will get to know Albert, the WVU System and Discuss what health care must do to thrive in the post big, beautiful bill era.  ]]>1791appalachia,bigbeautifulbill,healthcare,ruralhealth,wv,wvu,wvumedicinefalse230fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/timet-using-local-labor-football-helmet-battle-stem-on-the-farm-looking-back-on-friday-night-lights--67495408General Hoyer sits down for a return visit with Dr. Chris Ramezan, Executive Director of the Cyber-Resilience Resource Center at West Virginia University. In this segment, Dr. Ramezan shares how his first teaching experience reshaped his view of leadership and discusses the mission of the new Cyber-Resilience Resource Center. He also shares insights from an article he authored in the publication The Conversation and offers practical tips for protecting digital privacy in an AI-driven world.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State, provided by the department of agriculture we here about the importance of young farmers having exposure to technology and STEM. Agriculture is not immune from the drive for automation and technology use. Young farmers will be the future of the industry.     When states offer incentives to attract companies to a state, the goal is to attract local workers to staff the plants.

Timet is building a titanium facility near Ravenswood. The company has been successful in attracting local talent. We will hear from four employees who are West Virginians who now work at the site. The company hopes to start partial production in final quarter of this year.  

Football season is starting, and the question of concussions is a major one especially on the middle and high school level. There is a device called a guardian cap that fits over a football helmet. Aadvocates say the device will help reduce the impact of head injuries and provide additional protection. The West Virginia Secondary Schools Athletic Commission is not sold on it. We bring you an extended conversation with Wayne Ryan who is head of the WVSSAC.  

In our final segment we will hear from Jocelynn Wilson she was a receiver for Point Pleasant football and she looks back as Friday Night Lights start in our region.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67495408Sun, 24 Aug 2025 13:58:33 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down for a return visit with Dr. Chris Ramezan, Executive Director of the Cyber-Resilience Resource Center at West Virginia University. In this segment, Dr. Ramezan shares how his first teaching experience...General Hoyer sits down for a return visit with Dr. Chris Ramezan, Executive Director of the Cyber-Resilience Resource Center at West Virginia University. In this segment, Dr. Ramezan shares how his first teaching experience reshaped his view of leadership and discusses the mission of the new Cyber-Resilience Resource Center. He also shares insights from an article he authored in the publication The Conversation and offers practical tips for protecting digital privacy in an AI-driven world.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State, provided by the department of agriculture we here about the importance of young farmers having exposure to technology and STEM. Agriculture is not immune from the drive for automation and technology use. Young farmers will be the future of the industry.     When states offer incentives to attract companies to a state, the goal is to attract local workers to staff the plants.

Timet is building a titanium facility near Ravenswood. The company has been successful in attracting local talent. We will hear from four employees who are West Virginians who now work at the site. The company hopes to start partial production in final quarter of this year.  

Football season is starting, and the question of concussions is a major one especially on the middle and high school level. There is a device called a guardian cap that fits over a football helmet. Aadvocates say the device will help reduce the impact of head injuries and provide additional protection. The West Virginia Secondary Schools Athletic Commission is not sold on it. We bring you an extended conversation with Wayne Ryan who is head of the WVSSAC.  

In our final segment we will hear from Jocelynn Wilson she was a receiver for Point Pleasant football and she looks back as Friday Night Lights start in our region.]]>1788agriculture,appalachia,concussion,cybersecurity,football,gurdiancap,lightfottballhelmets,riddel,stem,timet,wvng,wvssacfalse228fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/harness-racing-is-a-buckeye-thing-casto-farm-wins-award-and-healthy-eating--67402477General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and explains why it's about more than food security — it's about ensuring nutrition security too.   

The Casto Family Farm in Jackson County received the Heritage Farm Award presented by the West Virginia Farm Bureau and the State Fair of WV. We hear from Joe Casto about the farm.  

Harness Racing in the Buckeye State is a big deal. Tom Susman files a report where he talks with a several individuals involved in the sport. Including a gentleman Roger Houston that has called more harness races than anyone. Many of these races are held during county fairs, the interviews were recorded at the Historic Rock Springs Track at the Meigs County Fair.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67402477Sun, 17 Aug 2025 15:10:36 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and explains why it's about more than food security — it's...General Hoyer sits down with Mandy Curry, co-founder of Healthy Kids Inc. In this segment, Mandy shares the family and community mission behind their company and explains why it's about more than food security — it's about ensuring nutrition security too.   

The Casto Family Farm in Jackson County received the Heritage Farm Award presented by the West Virginia Farm Bureau and the State Fair of WV. We hear from Joe Casto about the farm.  

Harness Racing in the Buckeye State is a big deal. Tom Susman files a report where he talks with a several individuals involved in the sport. Including a gentleman Roger Houston that has called more harness races than anyone. Many of these races are held during county fairs, the interviews were recorded at the Historic Rock Springs Track at the Meigs County Fair.]]>1802appalachia,farming,food,healthykids,horseracing,maha,ohioharnessfalse227fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cool-face-pack-leadership-carnival-workers-capito-on-aca-cute-kids--67328388
    The West Virginia Grown program supported by the department of agriculture works to promote the purchase of West Virginia made products. One way they do it is each year at the State Fair of West Virginia they operate a country store and sell WV products. While this year’s fair may be over by the time you hear this report make a mental note to stop in next year. The main take away is to buy locally sourced products if you can help our local economy.  

President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill is now law , and I talked with US Senator Shelly Moore Capito of West Virginia about two related health items, the health transformation fund and a health item that is not in the bill. The issue not dealt with is the health exchange tax subsidies and the current level of subsidies expire on December 31 and without federal intervention 65,000 west Virginians will see a significant increase in premiums, for some it could be a 300% increase.

    At fairs and festivals, you see different kinds of exhibits, this past week at a county fair I talked with a face painting artist. Her work is amazing, and she grew up in Point Pleasant but lives in Buckhannon WV.  She was at the Mason County Fair, and we will get to meet the artist.  

   For those who play carnival games have you ever wondered about the folks who operate the games? I talked with two individuals who do, one is a musician who is fulfilling a bucket list item traveling with the carnival, the second is a person who seems his life has been saved from addiction by being part of the traveling carnival.  

The final bit is a discussion I had with a brother and sister who were showing animals at the Mason County Fair. They are 110% cute.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67328388Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:17:19 +0000Thomas Susman, Producer    Welcome to Appalachia Matters we have a great show lined up for you today. This week At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Larry Pack, Treasurer of the State of West Virginia. Larry was a former member of the West Virginia House of...
    The West Virginia Grown program supported by the department of agriculture works to promote the purchase of West Virginia made products. One way they do it is each year at the State Fair of West Virginia they operate a country store and sell WV products. While this year’s fair may be over by the time you hear this report make a mental note to stop in next year. The main take away is to buy locally sourced products if you can help our local economy.  

President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill is now law , and I talked with US Senator Shelly Moore Capito of West Virginia about two related health items, the health transformation fund and a health item that is not in the bill. The issue not dealt with is the health exchange tax subsidies and the current level of subsidies expire on December 31 and without federal intervention 65,000 west Virginians will see a significant increase in premiums, for some it could be a 300% increase.

    At fairs and festivals, you see different kinds of exhibits, this past week at a county fair I talked with a face painting artist. Her work is amazing, and she grew up in Point Pleasant but lives in Buckhannon WV.  She was at the Mason County Fair, and we will get to meet the artist.  

   For those who play carnival games have you ever wondered about the folks who operate the games? I talked with two individuals who do, one is a musician who is fulfilling a bucket list item traveling with the carnival, the second is a person who seems his life has been saved from addiction by being part of the traveling carnival.  

The final bit is a discussion I had with a brother and sister who were showing animals at the Mason County Fair. They are 110% cute.]]>1776aca,appalachia,capito,facepaintingfalse226fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fair-is-100-voad-path-shows-the-way-three-fair-food-vendors--67237497General Hoyer sits down with David Lumsden, Chair of the Board of Directors for the West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). In this episode, Dave shares his journey from the military to the West Virginia non-profit space, and how the folks at VOAD support our communities surrounding disasters such as the recent flooding we’ve seen here in the Mountain State.

The State Fair opens soon and runs through August 16, 2025. It is the 100th WV State Fair. Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt talks about the fair in the Rooted in the Mountain State segment submitted by the WV Department of Agriculture.  

Randy Smith is a former Meigs County Commissioner and now provides mental health and substance use treatment for Path Behavioral Health.  He and Tom had a discussion at the Meigs County back to school event.  

In our final segment, Tom Susman talks with three local food vendors who set up at area fairs and festivals.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67237497Sun, 03 Aug 2025 15:41:49 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with David Lumsden, Chair of the Board of Directors for the West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). In this episode, Dave shares his journey from the military to the West...General Hoyer sits down with David Lumsden, Chair of the Board of Directors for the West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). In this episode, Dave shares his journey from the military to the West Virginia non-profit space, and how the folks at VOAD support our communities surrounding disasters such as the recent flooding we’ve seen here in the Mountain State.

The State Fair opens soon and runs through August 16, 2025. It is the 100th WV State Fair. Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt talks about the fair in the Rooted in the Mountain State segment submitted by the WV Department of Agriculture.  

Randy Smith is a former Meigs County Commissioner and now provides mental health and substance use treatment for Path Behavioral Health.  He and Tom had a discussion at the Meigs County back to school event.  

In our final segment, Tom Susman talks with three local food vendors who set up at area fairs and festivals.  ]]>1787usmc,voad,wvdeptmentofagriculture,wvstatefair,wvufalse226fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/learning-life-lessons-at-the-fair-teaching-leadership-with-the-chamber--67142780
At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Pam Farris, the recently retired Executive Director of Leadership West Virginia. The General and Pam discuss the power of connection and trust in leadership, the impact of the Leadership West Virginia program on developing and empowering statewide leaders, and the importance of education and second chances for building a stronger future.  
We will talk with leaders, youth and parents who are involved in the Jackson County Junior Fair which is held every year in Cottageville WV. The passion shown at Jackson County can be found at most county fairs when it comes to the youth who are showing livestock. The highlight at most fairs is the market sale. The prices paid exceed market rates because the buyers want to support the youth. We provide you a snapshot of the Jackson County Junior Fair livestock operation.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67142780Sun, 27 Jul 2025 14:05:56 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis Week’s Appalachia Matters:   At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Pam Farris, the recently retired Executive Director of Leadership West Virginia. The General and Pam discuss the power of connection and trust in leadership, the...
At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Pam Farris, the recently retired Executive Director of Leadership West Virginia. The General and Pam discuss the power of connection and trust in leadership, the impact of the Leadership West Virginia program on developing and empowering statewide leaders, and the importance of education and second chances for building a stronger future.  
We will talk with leaders, youth and parents who are involved in the Jackson County Junior Fair which is held every year in Cottageville WV. The passion shown at Jackson County can be found at most county fairs when it comes to the youth who are showing livestock. The highlight at most fairs is the market sale. The prices paid exceed market rates because the buyers want to support the youth. We provide you a snapshot of the Jackson County Junior Fair livestock operation.  ]]>17854-h,cows,ffa,jacksoncountyjuniorfair,juniorfair,lambs,wvchamber,wvdepartmentofag,wvngfalse225fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rural-hospitals-the-big-beautiful-bill-ihlenfeld-part-2-and-rooted-in-mountain-state--67046121
In the Rooted in the Mountain State from the WV Department of Agriculture we hear from WV Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt about grants to help producers.

In our final segment ,Tom Susman talks with Debbie Hill, CEO of Montgomery General Hospital and Jim Kaufman President of the West Virginia Hospital Association about the impact of the Big Beautiful Bill on rural hospitals. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67046121Sun, 20 Jul 2025 15:32:51 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerLast week, on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sat down with William Ihlenfeld, a former U.S. Attorney and West Virginia State Senator, and currently a partner at the legal firm Flannery Georgalis. This week, they conclude their two-part...
In the Rooted in the Mountain State from the WV Department of Agriculture we hear from WV Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt about grants to help producers.

In our final segment ,Tom Susman talks with Debbie Hill, CEO of Montgomery General Hospital and Jim Kaufman President of the West Virginia Hospital Association about the impact of the Big Beautiful Bill on rural hospitals. ]]>1786appalachia,bigbeautifulbill,capito,hospital,jimjustice,medicaid,potus,ruralcare,trump,wvha,wvngfalse224fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-orginal-analog-william-ihlenfeld-talks-to-the-general-bees-maple-syrup-and-lazy-susans--66964559General Hoyer sits down with William Ihlenfeld, a former U.S. Attorney and West Virginia State Senator, and currently a partner at the legal firm Flannery Georgalis. This is a two-part episode packed with insights and information. Part one this week includes leadership insights from Ihlenfeld’s time prosecuting crimes in Ohio County, including information about elder abuse, AI scams, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Tune in for part two next week on addressing the fentanyl crisis and how Ihlenfeld is working to expand Flannery Georgalis legal services right here in West Virginia.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will hear from Frank Dix of Summersville he operates Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery  

In our final group of interviews, Tom Susman attended the Mountain Art and Craft Fair and he talked with some of the participants. In the first interview we will learn about fly wheel tractors with Earl Hudkins and Rick Miller, in the second interview he spent time with Gregg Bannon who markets honey and maple syrup. In the final interview we spend time with Donna Onderko, an who makes and sells beautiful lazy Susan’s.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66964559Sun, 13 Jul 2025 14:42:35 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with William Ihlenfeld, a former U.S. Attorney and West Virginia State Senator, and currently a partner at the legal firm Flannery Georgalis. This is a two-part episode packed with insights...General Hoyer sits down with William Ihlenfeld, a former U.S. Attorney and West Virginia State Senator, and currently a partner at the legal firm Flannery Georgalis. This is a two-part episode packed with insights and information. Part one this week includes leadership insights from Ihlenfeld’s time prosecuting crimes in Ohio County, including information about elder abuse, AI scams, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Tune in for part two next week on addressing the fentanyl crisis and how Ihlenfeld is working to expand Flannery Georgalis legal services right here in West Virginia.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will hear from Frank Dix of Summersville he operates Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery  

In our final group of interviews, Tom Susman attended the Mountain Art and Craft Fair and he talked with some of the participants. In the first interview we will learn about fly wheel tractors with Earl Hudkins and Rick Miller, in the second interview he spent time with Gregg Bannon who markets honey and maple syrup. In the final interview we spend time with Donna Onderko, an who makes and sells beautiful lazy Susan’s.    ]]>1790flywheeltractors,honey,lazysusan,maplesyrup,wvlegis,wvngfalse223fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/growth-rio-gold-star-parents-a-wv-healer-and-a-great-beef-story--66882054General Hoyer were veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discussed what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State for the department of agriculture we will replay a segment on Mountain Steer Meat Company outside of Lewisburg WV. As local sourcing of food becomes a major concern in this country you learn how this local business is building an organization to meet that concern.  

Just outside of Gallipolis Ohio is the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College. Unlike many small institutions of higher learning this school is growing and thriving. This fall they are bringing back football and there is an amazing amount of capital investment. I talked with Ryan Smith who is President and number one cheerleader for his school.  

Do you watch the show Outlander? A larger portion of the show is set in Scotland and the American colonies in the 1700s. Instead of doctors,  they have healers who use roots and herbs to help fight illness. In this next segment we will replay Tom Susman’s discussion with a West Virginia healer.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66882054Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:23:00 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerLast fall we aired a special gold star family segment as part of Gold Star Family Awareness Month. The last Sunday of September is recognized as Gold Star Mothers and Families Day in West Virginia. In honor of that, At the Leadership Table with...General Hoyer were veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discussed what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families. 

In the Rooted in the Mountain State for the department of agriculture we will replay a segment on Mountain Steer Meat Company outside of Lewisburg WV. As local sourcing of food becomes a major concern in this country you learn how this local business is building an organization to meet that concern.  

Just outside of Gallipolis Ohio is the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College. Unlike many small institutions of higher learning this school is growing and thriving. This fall they are bringing back football and there is an amazing amount of capital investment. I talked with Ryan Smith who is President and number one cheerleader for his school.  

Do you watch the show Outlander? A larger portion of the show is set in Scotland and the American colonies in the 1700s. Instead of doctors,  they have healers who use roots and herbs to help fight illness. In this next segment we will replay Tom Susman’s discussion with a West Virginia healer.  ]]>1789goldstar,highered,wv,wvngfalse222fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/doctor-gee-with-the-general-fireworks-food-and-christmas-trees--66794986General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee, as Dr. Gee gets ready to head into retirement after a storied and prestigious 45-year career in higher education.   

On Rooted in the Mountain State from the Department of Agriculture we give you a Christmas in July treat as we replay a segment from November on Christmas Trees. Maybe thinking about December when temperatures are 90 degrees will make it feel cooler.  

In the final segment, we have three interviews to get you ready for the fourth, the first is with Amy Haskins of the Jackson County Health Department on how to stay safe when grilling out or having a picnic. The second interview is with a Marshall University student who works at roadside produce stand and we get insight on what is a good choice for summer produce and the final interview is with firework vendor, Chris Hupp who operates a fireworks tent, and she shares her thoughts on fireworks.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66794986Sun, 29 Jun 2025 15:25:40 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table this week, General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee, as Dr. Gee gets ready to head into retirement after a storied and prestigious 45-year career in higher education.    On Rooted in the...General Hoyer sits down with West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee, as Dr. Gee gets ready to head into retirement after a storied and prestigious 45-year career in higher education.   

On Rooted in the Mountain State from the Department of Agriculture we give you a Christmas in July treat as we replay a segment from November on Christmas Trees. Maybe thinking about December when temperatures are 90 degrees will make it feel cooler.  

In the final segment, we have three interviews to get you ready for the fourth, the first is with Amy Haskins of the Jackson County Health Department on how to stay safe when grilling out or having a picnic. The second interview is with a Marshall University student who works at roadside produce stand and we get insight on what is a good choice for summer produce and the final interview is with firework vendor, Chris Hupp who operates a fireworks tent, and she shares her thoughts on fireworks.]]>1791appalachia,christmastree,fireworks,gordongee,health,highered,wvng,wvufalse220fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/moses-joins-the-general-cooking-with-chef-paul-all-of-the-above-cool-cars--66693459General Hoyer sits down with Meghan Moses, a partner and General Manager at Moses Auto Group in Charleston, and the founding president of the West Virginia Women’s Alliance. They discuss some of the links between West Virginia history and today, especially some ways to move the state forward by supporting families, women, and retaining young people in the Mountain State.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will hear about James Beard winning Chef Paul Smith’s work at the Capitol Market In Charleston each week where he teaches health cooking classes.  

This past week for WMOV Tom Susman talked with Mitch Carmichael who was President of the West Virginia State Senate and a Cabinet Secretary in the Justice Administration, Mitch is leading an effort to ensure our country has enough US produced energy to meet growing electricity demands.  

All over Appalachia there are weekend car shows, men and women bring out these beautiful cars from days gone by, but these shows many times are about more than pretty cars the participants are raising funds to help the community or community members. Steven Figiel of affiliate WJEH was at the Kicik’n Summer Bash Car show in Pomeroy, Ohio and he talked with some of those who were involved.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66693459Sun, 22 Jun 2025 14:29:43 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Meghan Moses, a partner and General Manager at Moses Auto Group in Charleston, and the founding president of the West Virginia Women’s Alliance. They discuss some of the links between...General Hoyer sits down with Meghan Moses, a partner and General Manager at Moses Auto Group in Charleston, and the founding president of the West Virginia Women’s Alliance. They discuss some of the links between West Virginia history and today, especially some ways to move the state forward by supporting families, women, and retaining young people in the Mountain State.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will hear about James Beard winning Chef Paul Smith’s work at the Capitol Market In Charleston each week where he teaches health cooking classes.  

This past week for WMOV Tom Susman talked with Mitch Carmichael who was President of the West Virginia State Senate and a Cabinet Secretary in the Justice Administration, Mitch is leading an effort to ensure our country has enough US produced energy to meet growing electricity demands.  

All over Appalachia there are weekend car shows, men and women bring out these beautiful cars from days gone by, but these shows many times are about more than pretty cars the participants are raising funds to help the community or community members. Steven Figiel of affiliate WJEH was at the Kicik’n Summer Bash Car show in Pomeroy, Ohio and he talked with some of those who were involved.]]>1792appalachia,carclub,cars,cooking,jamesbeard,moses,wv,wvdeptofag,wvpoliticsfalse219fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fathers-strawberries-the-army-s-birthday-well-care-not-sick-care--66565663Fathers, Strawberries, The Army’s Birthday & Well Care Not Sick Care  
Father’s Day falls in June and this week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer reflects on Father’s Day and how leadership starts in the home. We hear perspectives from a few West Virginian dads who earned that title in various ways. They share how fatherhood has taught them leadership lessons in patience, listening, and service to others.  

In the rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the WV Department of Agriculture, we learn about delicious strawberries farmed near the Williams River.   

The US Army turns 250 years old this month and I talk with Monty Warner who grew up in Charleston and is a retired Army colonel. He is also a bit of an army historian, and we discuss the background on how the army originated and the impact of frontiersman from then Western Virginia. Monty has a great understanding of military history and the revolution.  

In our final segment we will learn about one hospital who is more focused on well care than sick care. Roane General in rural West Virginia has a program called Prescription for your Health, they have been successful in improving the health and quality of life of those who participate.  They were doing MAHA; Make America Healthy before MAHA was cool also their efforts were just recognized by the state.   We talk with Roane General CEO Doug Bentz.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66565663Sun, 15 Jun 2025 14:44:31 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerFathers, Strawberries, The Army’s Birthday & Well Care Not Sick Care   Father’s Day falls in June and this week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer reflects on Father’s Day and how leadership starts in the home. We hear perspectives from a...Fathers, Strawberries, The Army’s Birthday & Well Care Not Sick Care  
Father’s Day falls in June and this week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer reflects on Father’s Day and how leadership starts in the home. We hear perspectives from a few West Virginian dads who earned that title in various ways. They share how fatherhood has taught them leadership lessons in patience, listening, and service to others.  

In the rooted in the Mountain State Segment provided by the WV Department of Agriculture, we learn about delicious strawberries farmed near the Williams River.   

The US Army turns 250 years old this month and I talk with Monty Warner who grew up in Charleston and is a retired Army colonel. He is also a bit of an army historian, and we discuss the background on how the army originated and the impact of frontiersman from then Western Virginia. Monty has a great understanding of military history and the revolution.  

In our final segment we will learn about one hospital who is more focused on well care than sick care. Roane General in rural West Virginia has a program called Prescription for your Health, they have been successful in improving the health and quality of life of those who participate.  They were doing MAHA; Make America Healthy before MAHA was cool also their efforts were just recognized by the state.   We talk with Roane General CEO Doug Bentz.    ]]>1790250,sar,usarmy,wv,wvngfalse218fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/learning-from-golf-healthy-eating-walnut-hill-diary-arts-and-crafts--66461594Learning from Golf, Healthy Eating, Walnut Hill Diary & Arts and Crafts  

This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Adam Krawsczyn, a PGA Associate Golf Professional, small business owner, and General Manager of Riverside Golf Club in Mason, West Virginia. Adam and the General talk about the essential role that small businesses play in community resilience, and how some of the most meaningful leadership comes from the community level.     

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will learn about the Walnut Hill Dairy.  

When it comes to art and craft fairs there are fairs and then there are fairs, the granddaddy of them all is the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair which will be held July 3, 4 and 5 at Cedar Lakes near Ripley. Each year a collection a vendors, music and food come together to provide attendees with a flavor of Appalachia culture past and present. Tom Susman talks with Jeannie Smith who is one of the organizers.    

 In our final segment wel play a report that aired on  WMOV Radio about a teaching kitchen that was unveiled this month by WV Governor Patrick Morrisey at the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion It is operated by West Virginia Health Right. The goal is to teach healthy cooking techniques to those they serve.      ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66461594Sun, 08 Jun 2025 11:21:22 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerLearning from Golf, Healthy Eating, Walnut Hill Diary & Arts and Crafts   This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Adam Krawsczyn, a PGA Associate Golf Professional, small business owner, and General Manager of Riverside...Learning from Golf, Healthy Eating, Walnut Hill Diary & Arts and Crafts  

This week on At The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Adam Krawsczyn, a PGA Associate Golf Professional, small business owner, and General Manager of Riverside Golf Club in Mason, West Virginia. Adam and the General talk about the essential role that small businesses play in community resilience, and how some of the most meaningful leadership comes from the community level.     

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will learn about the Walnut Hill Dairy.  

When it comes to art and craft fairs there are fairs and then there are fairs, the granddaddy of them all is the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair which will be held July 3, 4 and 5 at Cedar Lakes near Ripley. Each year a collection a vendors, music and food come together to provide attendees with a flavor of Appalachia culture past and present. Tom Susman talks with Jeannie Smith who is one of the organizers.    

 In our final segment wel play a report that aired on  WMOV Radio about a teaching kitchen that was unveiled this month by WV Governor Patrick Morrisey at the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion It is operated by West Virginia Health Right. The goal is to teach healthy cooking techniques to those they serve.      ]]>1791maha,wv,wvhealthright,wvngfalse217fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-the-moon-to-the-coal-mine-making-opportunities-senior-vouchers--66356155From the Moon to the Coal Mine, Making Opportunities, & Senior Vouchers     This week on At The Leadership Table, General James Hoyer sits down with Alex Weld, Executive Director of Generation West Virginia, a nonprofit organization that works with young people to help place them in careers across the state. Alex and the General discuss how Generation contributes to key economic development initiatives in the state and to enhancing the relationships between job seekers and employers.   

In the Rooted In The Mountain State segment provided by the Department of Agriculture, we will learn about vouchers for seniors so they can buy produce grown in West Virginia or within 50 miles of the state’s border.  
Tom Susman talks with Leslie Baker who is with the City of Beckley, and they operate the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and other coal related offerings at New River Park. If you want to go in a coal mine Leslie will tell you how.  

Constellium is a manufacturer in Jackson County, and they provide parts for NASA including the Artemis Rocket program that has a goal of putting Americans on the moon. Folks from NASA toured the plant. In our final segment we will play a report that aired on WMOV radio about the visit.      ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66356155Sun, 01 Jun 2025 14:13:28 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerFrom the Moon to the Coal Mine, Making Opportunities, & Senior Vouchers     This week on At The Leadership Table, General James Hoyer sits down with Alex Weld, Executive Director of Generation West Virginia, a nonprofit organization that works...From the Moon to the Coal Mine, Making Opportunities, & Senior Vouchers     This week on At The Leadership Table, General James Hoyer sits down with Alex Weld, Executive Director of Generation West Virginia, a nonprofit organization that works with young people to help place them in careers across the state. Alex and the General discuss how Generation contributes to key economic development initiatives in the state and to enhancing the relationships between job seekers and employers.   

In the Rooted In The Mountain State segment provided by the Department of Agriculture, we will learn about vouchers for seniors so they can buy produce grown in West Virginia or within 50 miles of the state’s border.  
Tom Susman talks with Leslie Baker who is with the City of Beckley, and they operate the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and other coal related offerings at New River Park. If you want to go in a coal mine Leslie will tell you how.  

Constellium is a manufacturer in Jackson County, and they provide parts for NASA including the Artemis Rocket program that has a goal of putting Americans on the moon. Folks from NASA toured the plant. In our final segment we will play a report that aired on WMOV radio about the visit.      ]]>1791artemis,beckley,coal,generationwv,moon,nasa,wv,wvdepartmentofag.,wvngfalse216fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lafayette-s-return-french-500-helping-the-hungry-mountainer-steers--66271002At the Leadership Table, General Jim Hoyer looks back at prior interviews with Chad Morrison of Mountaineer Food Bank and Cyndi Kirkhart with Facing Hunger Food Bank. He reflects on how 1 in 5 military and veteran families in West Virginia face hunger. Heading into Memorial Day, he offers us a “WV Community Leadership Challenge” to join him in donating or volunteering at one of the Food Banks or a local food pantry.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the Department of Agriculture we will learn about the Mountain State Steer Company in Lewisburg, West Virginia as part of Beef Month.

In the last two segments we will celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to Gallipolis Ohio and we will learn about the founding of Gallipolis or as it is known by some the City of the Gauls. We will hear from Bryna Butler, Lorna Hart, Bob Hood, and others who were involved in a special event held on May 22, 2025.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66271002Sun, 25 May 2025 14:19:56 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Jim Hoyer looks back at prior interviews with Chad Morrison of Mountaineer Food Bank and Cyndi Kirkhart with Facing Hunger Food Bank. He reflects on how 1 in 5 military and veteran families in West...At the Leadership Table, General Jim Hoyer looks back at prior interviews with Chad Morrison of Mountaineer Food Bank and Cyndi Kirkhart with Facing Hunger Food Bank. He reflects on how 1 in 5 military and veteran families in West Virginia face hunger. Heading into Memorial Day, he offers us a “WV Community Leadership Challenge” to join him in donating or volunteering at one of the Food Banks or a local food pantry.   

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment provided by the Department of Agriculture we will learn about the Mountain State Steer Company in Lewisburg, West Virginia as part of Beef Month.

In the last two segments we will celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to Gallipolis Ohio and we will learn about the founding of Gallipolis or as it is known by some the City of the Gauls. We will hear from Bryna Butler, Lorna Hart, Bob Hood, and others who were involved in a special event held on May 22, 2025.    ]]>1789apalachia,gallipolis,hunger,layfayette200,wvngfalse215fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/155-000-cans-generals-talk-medicaid-cuts-agriculture-agritourisim-and-farmers-markets--66139246General Hoyer sits down with Retired Brigadier General Paige Hunter. General Hunter is West Virginia’s first female General. She served as Assistant Adjutant General and Commander of the West Virginia Air National Guard. The two Generals discuss commanding with compassion, taking care of the people who take care of the mission, and the important role the Guard plays in our Mountain State communities and beyond.  

This week in the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment, we learn about the importance of Farmers Markets especially the new South Charleston Farmers Market.  

This week we also have a chance to talk with West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt to discuss farming and agritourism.  

We talked with Jim Kaufman who is president of the West Virginia Hospital Association, and we talk about potential Medicaid changes that are being discussed on the federal level and how they might impact a rural state like West Virginia.  

And in our final segment I will play a report Tom Susman did for WMOV on a school that collected 155,000 aluminum cans as part of a competition.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66139246Sun, 18 May 2025 14:48:31 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Retired Brigadier General Paige Hunter. General Hunter is West Virginia’s first female General. She served as Assistant Adjutant General and Commander of the West Virginia Air National...General Hoyer sits down with Retired Brigadier General Paige Hunter. General Hunter is West Virginia’s first female General. She served as Assistant Adjutant General and Commander of the West Virginia Air National Guard. The two Generals discuss commanding with compassion, taking care of the people who take care of the mission, and the important role the Guard plays in our Mountain State communities and beyond.  

This week in the Rooted in the Mountain State Segment, we learn about the importance of Farmers Markets especially the new South Charleston Farmers Market.  

This week we also have a chance to talk with West Virginia Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt to discuss farming and agritourism.  

We talked with Jim Kaufman who is president of the West Virginia Hospital Association, and we talk about potential Medicaid changes that are being discussed on the federal level and how they might impact a rural state like West Virginia.  

And in our final segment I will play a report Tom Susman did for WMOV on a school that collected 155,000 aluminum cans as part of a competition.]]>1817agitourisim,aluminum,appalachia,farming,medicaidcuts,nwsfly,usda,wvdepatofag,wvngfalse214fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/east-end-sale-agritourisim-contest-making-nurses-farmers-markets--66039107General Hoyer sits down on At The Leadership Table with Tanya Rogers, assistant vice president of nursing education at WVU Medicine. They discuss addressing the national nursing shortage by recruiting, preparing, and retaining the next generation of nurses right here in the Mountain State.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we learn about a contest to help farmers who are involved Agritourism. This new activity can help farmers establish and additional revenue stream.

Each the Saturday before Mother’s Day Charleston has the East End Yard Sale. Residents who live in the east in hold this sale which allows them to get rid of unwanted stuff and if not careful buy more stuff. I went down to the sale and talked with some east-enders who were selling items. There is also a lot of food that gets sold during this sale.  Several thousand people turn out for the sale. The best part is crowd watching.  

In our final segment we learn about the importance of local Farmers Markets.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66039107Sun, 11 May 2025 14:47:46 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn the heels of National Nurses Appreciation week, General Hoyer sits down on At The Leadership Table with Tanya Rogers, assistant vice president of nursing education at WVU Medicine. They discuss addressing the national nursing shortage by...General Hoyer sits down on At The Leadership Table with Tanya Rogers, assistant vice president of nursing education at WVU Medicine. They discuss addressing the national nursing shortage by recruiting, preparing, and retaining the next generation of nurses right here in the Mountain State.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we learn about a contest to help farmers who are involved Agritourism. This new activity can help farmers establish and additional revenue stream.

Each the Saturday before Mother’s Day Charleston has the East End Yard Sale. Residents who live in the east in hold this sale which allows them to get rid of unwanted stuff and if not careful buy more stuff. I went down to the sale and talked with some east-enders who were selling items. There is also a lot of food that gets sold during this sale.  Several thousand people turn out for the sale. The best part is crowd watching.  

In our final segment we learn about the importance of local Farmers Markets.]]>1790agritourisim,appalachia,crw,eastend,ripley,wvdepartmentag,wvng,wvumedicinefalse213fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-award-student-farmers-wv-explorer-prioritizing-primary-care--65906963Appalachia Matters has been named The Best Radio Program in West Virginia in an unranked market, which means small market, by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association. This award would not have been possible if it were not for our contributors Major General Jim Hoyer and Beth Southern with West Virginia Department of Agriculture. This effort would have failed were it not for our loyal listeners, so we say thank you.  

In this episode Tom Susman joins General James Hoyer at the Leadership Table  to discuss the award from the West Virginia Broadcasters and to  discuss what is ahead for the program.  

The Rooted in the Mountain segment from the Department of Agriculture we learn about how Wheeling Park High students are involved in a school based farm and agriculture.  

David Sibray, who is from southern West Virginia, has an online publication called the West Virginia Explorer which highlights history, natural areas and just about anything in our region. Tom Susman has an extended conversation with David.  

In our final segment we will replay a report that was produced for WMOV Radio it reports on an Occupational Health and Primary Care Clinic  in Gallipolis Ferry WV. It is a joint project of Marshall Health Network and Rivers Heath in Point Pleasant. The clinic is in the shadows of the Nucor steel plant which is under construction in Mason County. An interesting aspect with the clinic is the priority given to primary health care at a time many hospital systems are targeting specialty care.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65906963Sun, 04 May 2025 17:09:38 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAppalachia Matters has been named The Best Radio Program in West Virginia in an unranked market, which means small market, by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association. This award would not have been possible if it were not for our contributors Major...Appalachia Matters has been named The Best Radio Program in West Virginia in an unranked market, which means small market, by the West Virginia Broadcasters Association. This award would not have been possible if it were not for our contributors Major General Jim Hoyer and Beth Southern with West Virginia Department of Agriculture. This effort would have failed were it not for our loyal listeners, so we say thank you.  

In this episode Tom Susman joins General James Hoyer at the Leadership Table  to discuss the award from the West Virginia Broadcasters and to  discuss what is ahead for the program.  

The Rooted in the Mountain segment from the Department of Agriculture we learn about how Wheeling Park High students are involved in a school based farm and agriculture.  

David Sibray, who is from southern West Virginia, has an online publication called the West Virginia Explorer which highlights history, natural areas and just about anything in our region. Tom Susman has an extended conversation with David.  

In our final segment we will replay a report that was produced for WMOV Radio it reports on an Occupational Health and Primary Care Clinic  in Gallipolis Ferry WV. It is a joint project of Marshall Health Network and Rivers Heath in Point Pleasant. The clinic is in the shadows of the Nucor steel plant which is under construction in Mason County. An interesting aspect with the clinic is the priority given to primary health care at a time many hospital systems are targeting specialty care.]]>1790agriculture,appalachia,health,marshallhealth,marshalluniversity,primarycare,rivershealth,wvexplorer,wvngfalse212fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/time-to-run-time-to-plant-time-to-lead--65767463General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Danny Twilley, Assistant Vice President of Economic, Community, and Asset Development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain state the Department of Agriculture highlights a farm in Hampshire County.

We talk with a Jackson County Native Jonathan Schiefer who just finished running the Boston Marathon, which for most runners is a bucket list item.

In the final segment we touch base with JJ Barret, Wood County Extension agent for WVU on last minute gardening tips as we many of us are getting ready to plant vegetables for the summer growing season.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65767463Sun, 27 Apr 2025 15:39:37 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Danny Twilley, Assistant Vice President of Economic, Community, and Asset Development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.   In the Rooted in...General Hoyer sits down with Dr. Danny Twilley, Assistant Vice President of Economic, Community, and Asset Development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain state the Department of Agriculture highlights a farm in Hampshire County.

We talk with a Jackson County Native Jonathan Schiefer who just finished running the Boston Marathon, which for most runners is a bucket list item.

In the final segment we touch base with JJ Barret, Wood County Extension agent for WVU on last minute gardening tips as we many of us are getting ready to plant vegetables for the summer growing season.]]>1790appalachia,bostonmarathon,farm,marshallu,wvdepartmentofag,wvng,wvufalse212fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spring-planting-chaotic-markets-agritourism-and-leadership-lessons--65635365
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from The Department of Agriculture we will learn about an agritourism conference that is being held this month.  

We have all seen the wild stock market swings. Earlier this month I talked with Craig Slaughter of the West Virginia Investment Management Board on how they are dealing with the stock market swings and to see if he has insight on how to get  through periods of uncertainty in the market.  

The Saturday before Easter is the unofficial kick off to spring planting. I stopped by the Capitol Market in Charleston to talk with some local vendors about what products they are selling and to get some background on who they are.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65635365Sat, 19 Apr 2025 17:13:53 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with CJ Harvey, former press secretary and director of communication for Governor Justice, and current Vice President of Communications and Marketing at the...
In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from The Department of Agriculture we will learn about an agritourism conference that is being held this month.  

We have all seen the wild stock market swings. Earlier this month I talked with Craig Slaughter of the West Virginia Investment Management Board on how they are dealing with the stock market swings and to see if he has insight on how to get  through periods of uncertainty in the market.  

The Saturday before Easter is the unofficial kick off to spring planting. I stopped by the Capitol Market in Charleston to talk with some local vendors about what products they are selling and to get some background on who they are.]]>1786appalachia,stock,uc,wv,wvngfalse211fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/honey-mountian-bees-aca-changes-and-at-the-leadership-table--65377795This week on @ The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Renee Hoffman, retired Sergeant First Class for the WV National Guard, and now Supply Chain Manager at Hope Gas. They discuss her journey to find purpose in her career after leaving the military and how she uses her military background in her everyday life in the civilian world.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will learn about Honey Mountain Farm in Grafton West Virginia. They recently won a grant in a competition sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

In our final segment we will take a deep dive in to changes in health care coverage that could impact 167,000 West Virginians who get coverage through Medicaid Expansion and another 67,000 who buy health insurance coverage through Healthcare.gov. We will hear from Senator Shelly Moore Capito (R) of West Virginia, Doctor and West Virginia House of Delegates member Matt Rohrbach (R) of Cabell County, West Virginia House of Delegates Member Marty Gearhart (R)of Mercer, Kelly Allen of the West Virginia Center for Budget and Policy, Jeremy Smith and ACA  Navigator and Chris Hall of the WV EMS Coalition.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65377795Sun, 06 Apr 2025 09:38:06 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn this week’s Appalachia Matters:   This week on @ The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Renee Hoffman, retired Sergeant First Class for the WV National Guard, and now Supply Chain Manager at Hope Gas. They...This week on @ The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Renee Hoffman, retired Sergeant First Class for the WV National Guard, and now Supply Chain Manager at Hope Gas. They discuss her journey to find purpose in her career after leaving the military and how she uses her military background in her everyday life in the civilian world.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment, we will learn about Honey Mountain Farm in Grafton West Virginia. They recently won a grant in a competition sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

In our final segment we will take a deep dive in to changes in health care coverage that could impact 167,000 West Virginians who get coverage through Medicaid Expansion and another 67,000 who buy health insurance coverage through Healthcare.gov. We will hear from Senator Shelly Moore Capito (R) of West Virginia, Doctor and West Virginia House of Delegates member Matt Rohrbach (R) of Cabell County, West Virginia House of Delegates Member Marty Gearhart (R)of Mercer, Kelly Allen of the West Virginia Center for Budget and Policy, Jeremy Smith and ACA  Navigator and Chris Hall of the WV EMS Coalition.]]>1793aca,health.gov,honeyfarm,wvems,wvlegis,wvngfalse210fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rfk-jr-ham-bacon-and-egg-planting-prep-and-doctor-sherri-young--65232227Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Doctor Sherri Young a West Virginia native, former Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health, and a physician in family and geriatric medicine. Dr. Young shares her views on the importance of leading from the front, how challenges can build resilience, and the power of community.

In the Rooted in The Mountain State segment produced by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a mountain state tradition, the Ham Bacon and Egg sale.

Next is a report Tom Susman filed for WMOV’s Valley Today, where he talks with JJ Barrett a cooperative extension agent for WVU assigned to Wood and Jackson Counties.  

In our final segment we replay excerpts from Secretary of Health Robert Kennedy Jr’s visit to the Mountain State. In the first segment he explains his family’s affinity for West Virginia and in the final excerpt he cites data that shows the United States is in a health crisis.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65232227Sun, 30 Mar 2025 09:43:23 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Doctor Sherri Young a West Virginia native, former Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health, and a physician in family and geriatric medicine. Dr. Young shares...Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Doctor Sherri Young a West Virginia native, former Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Health, and a physician in family and geriatric medicine. Dr. Young shares her views on the importance of leading from the front, how challenges can build resilience, and the power of community.

In the Rooted in The Mountain State segment produced by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture we will learn about a mountain state tradition, the Ham Bacon and Egg sale.

Next is a report Tom Susman filed for WMOV’s Valley Today, where he talks with JJ Barrett a cooperative extension agent for WVU assigned to Wood and Jackson Counties.  

In our final segment we replay excerpts from Secretary of Health Robert Kennedy Jr’s visit to the Mountain State. In the first segment he explains his family’s affinity for West Virginia and in the final excerpt he cites data that shows the United States is in a health crisis.]]>1790appalachia,eggs,ffa,health,maga,maha,wvagriculture,wvu,wvuextensionfalse29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-usda-cuts-farmers-leadership-table-kniting-the-ole-fashion-way-rail-bikes-farm-policy--64917939Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Phillip Cantrell, retired command sergeant major in the U.S. Army and former senior enlisted leader of the WV National Guard. They discuss his role as an Intergovernmental and External Affairs Liaison with Senator Joe Manchin and his message to veterans and young enlisted military members in West Virginia.  

The Rooted In The Mountain State section focuses on an artisan who knits and spins her own yarn. This segment is produced by The West Virginia Department of Agriculture.  

We talk with Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt about items of concern for farmers and producers as well as his efforts in the legislature to help promote WV Farm Products.  

In our fourth segment we talk about two programs the USDA has cut which impacts local farmers, schools and food banks.  We will get Senator Shelly Moore Capito’s take on the cuts.  

In our final segment we hear about Tourism Day at the State Capitol including a rail bike excursion located in Clay County.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64917939Sun, 16 Mar 2025 15:24:29 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on at the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Phillip Cantrell, retired command sergeant major in the U.S. Army and former senior enlisted leader of the WV National Guard. They discuss his role as an...Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Phillip Cantrell, retired command sergeant major in the U.S. Army and former senior enlisted leader of the WV National Guard. They discuss his role as an Intergovernmental and External Affairs Liaison with Senator Joe Manchin and his message to veterans and young enlisted military members in West Virginia.  

The Rooted In The Mountain State section focuses on an artisan who knits and spins her own yarn. This segment is produced by The West Virginia Department of Agriculture.  

We talk with Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt about items of concern for farmers and producers as well as his efforts in the legislature to help promote WV Farm Products.  

In our fourth segment we talk about two programs the USDA has cut which impacts local farmers, schools and food banks.  We will get Senator Shelly Moore Capito’s take on the cuts.  

In our final segment we hear about Tourism Day at the State Capitol including a rail bike excursion located in Clay County.]]>1791appalachia,doge,knitting,railbike,usda,vistwv,wv,wvdepartofag,wvng,wvtourisimfalse28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-farmers-getting-ready-responding-to-tragedy-colon-health-and-the-flu--64776124
At This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Aly Gregg, Vice President of Communications for the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2). They discuss how great leadership can come from any person in any role; the important work CMI2 is doing, especially involving students in Clay County; and her hopes for the state moving forward.  

As temperatures are warming up farmers need to start thinking about testing their soil Tom Susman talks with Evan Wilson the WVU Extension Agent in Mason County.

This month is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and we cover a special event hosted by Holzer Health in Gallipolis Ohio.

In our third segment, we replay a talk Ryan Craddock from Boone County gave to the West Virginia State Senate Judiciary committee, Ryan lost his 13-year-old son  Cohen to a head injury while practicing for football. He is advocating for a special protective cap for football helmets.  

In the final segment we hear about Influenza A from Amy Haskins of the Jackson County Health Department.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64776124Sun, 09 Mar 2025 15:08:09 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn this week’s Appalachia Matters. It is a packed show.   At This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Aly Gregg, Vice President of Communications for the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2)....
At This week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with Aly Gregg, Vice President of Communications for the Civil-Military Innovation Institute (CMI2). They discuss how great leadership can come from any person in any role; the important work CMI2 is doing, especially involving students in Clay County; and her hopes for the state moving forward.  

As temperatures are warming up farmers need to start thinking about testing their soil Tom Susman talks with Evan Wilson the WVU Extension Agent in Mason County.

This month is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and we cover a special event hosted by Holzer Health in Gallipolis Ohio.

In our third segment, we replay a talk Ryan Craddock from Boone County gave to the West Virginia State Senate Judiciary committee, Ryan lost his 13-year-old son  Cohen to a head injury while practicing for football. He is advocating for a special protective cap for football helmets.  

In the final segment we hear about Influenza A from Amy Haskins of the Jackson County Health Department.]]>1729agriculture,appalachia,cancer,flu,football,holzerhealth,tbi,wvng,wvuextensionfalse27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/counting-eagles-maple-syrup-and-senator-glen-jeffries--64659301Glen Jeffries of Putnam County joins retired Major General Jim Hoyer at the leadership table to talk about his role as senator and as a business owner.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the department agriculture we hear from a Jeff and Sandy Minner who are from Rockport WV who produce Maple Syrup.

In the third segment we learn about an Eagle Nest Survey that is underway in Ohio by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.  

In the final segment we will hear a report that Tom Susman did for WMOV about repealing Certificate of Need statues in West Virginia.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64659301Sun, 02 Mar 2025 15:55:27 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerWV State Senator Glen Jeffries of Putnam County joins retired Major General Jim Hoyer at the leadership table to talk about his role as senator and as a business owner. In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the department agriculture we...Glen Jeffries of Putnam County joins retired Major General Jim Hoyer at the leadership table to talk about his role as senator and as a business owner.

In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the department agriculture we hear from a Jeff and Sandy Minner who are from Rockport WV who produce Maple Syrup.

In the third segment we learn about an Eagle Nest Survey that is underway in Ohio by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.  

In the final segment we will hear a report that Tom Susman did for WMOV about repealing Certificate of Need statues in West Virginia.    ]]>1791appalachia,eagles,maplesyrup,patrickmorrisey,wvlegisfalse26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/behind-the-mic-for-50-years-40-years-guarding-the-state--64289702 At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with recently retired Major General Bill Crane to celebrate his 40-year military career, reflect on his visionary leadership of the West Virginia National Guard as Adjutant General for the last 4 years, and hear his hopes for the State and Guard moving forward.

We hear about a brewery in Greenbrier County. This segment is a repeat that ran earlier.  

Howard Monroe is a longtime broadcaster in Appalachia who lives in Wheeling West Virginia. Tom Susman sits down with Howard to discuss Monroe’s 50-year broadcast career.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64289702Mon, 10 Feb 2025 01:25:56 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week on At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with recently retired Major General Bill Crane to celebrate his 40-year military career, reflect on his visionary leadership of the West Virginia National Guard as... At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer, he sits down with recently retired Major General Bill Crane to celebrate his 40-year military career, reflect on his visionary leadership of the West Virginia National Guard as Adjutant General for the last 4 years, and hear his hopes for the State and Guard moving forward.

We hear about a brewery in Greenbrier County. This segment is a repeat that ran earlier.  

Howard Monroe is a longtime broadcaster in Appalachia who lives in Wheeling West Virginia. Tom Susman sits down with Howard to discuss Monroe’s 50-year broadcast career.]]>1790amradio,beer,broadcaster,watchdognetwork,wvba,wvngfalse25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wild-boars-avaian-flu-cyber-security-and-maple-syrup--64147222
In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture will talk about the harvest of Maple syrup in Appalachia.  

This week you will learn about wild board hunting in four West Virginia counties, these are not feral hogs but European wild boar.  

In our final segment we talk with Kent Leonhardt Commissioner of Agriculture about the avian flu that is impacting poultry farmers across the US and what is being done to protect the flocks and more importantly your health.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64147222Sun, 02 Feb 2025 15:55:29 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerDoctor Chris Dr. Christopher Ramezan joins General Hoyer at the leadership table. Chris is a cyber security expert. He and the General have work together in the past.   In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the West Virginia Department of...
In the Rooted in the Mountain State  segment from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture will talk about the harvest of Maple syrup in Appalachia.  

This week you will learn about wild board hunting in four West Virginia counties, these are not feral hogs but European wild boar.  

In our final segment we talk with Kent Leonhardt Commissioner of Agriculture about the avian flu that is impacting poultry farmers across the US and what is being done to protect the flocks and more importantly your health.]]>1780agriculture,appalachia,avianflu,maplesyrup,poultry,wildboar,wvdnrfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/full-interview-with-cyndi-kirkhart-chief-executive-officer-of-facing-hunger-food-bank--63990944General Jim Hoyer as he sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank.

During their chat, Cyndi and the General recall many emergency response efforts that they worked on together to look out for West Virginians and residents of the tri-state area during challenging times, and Cyndi shares leadership insights on the incredible power of partnerships. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63990944Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:43:25 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis is the extended version of this week's  At the Leadership Table, General Jim Hoyer as he sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank. During their chat, Cyndi and the General recall...General Jim Hoyer as he sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank.

During their chat, Cyndi and the General recall many emergency response efforts that they worked on together to look out for West Virginians and residents of the tri-state area during challenging times, and Cyndi shares leadership insights on the incredible power of partnerships. ]]>1258appalachia,hungerfalsebonushttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/facing-hunger-hard-cider-this-one-belongs-to-the-reds-keeping-cows-warm--63913298
This week at The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank. During their chat, Cyndi and the General recall many emergency response efforts that they worked on together to look out for West Virginians and residents of the tri-state area during challenging times, and Cyndi shares leadership insights on the incredible power of partnerships.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will learn about a brewery in Greenbrier County West Virginia.  

Baseball has been part of Appalachia since the game started. A staple has always been the Cincinnati Reds. During the coal booms miners would ride the train to Cincinnati from the coal fields catch a couple games and ride the train back home. The reds have a caravan which has player and management who travel from town to town prior to the start of spring training. The reds were in Point Pleasant this past week and Michael Susman caught up with legendary broadcaster Marty Brennaman.    

It has been cold in our region this past few weeks and Doctor Jim Maxwell the State Veterinarian for West Virginia shares information on how cows and other livestock with stand the cold. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63913298Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:08:57 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerFacing Hunger, Hard Cider, This One Belongs to the Reds, Keeping Cows Warm   This week at The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank. During their chat,...
This week at The Leadership Table, General Hoyer sits down for a compelling talk with Cyndi Kirkhart, Chief Executive Officer of Facing Hunger Food Bank. During their chat, Cyndi and the General recall many emergency response efforts that they worked on together to look out for West Virginians and residents of the tri-state area during challenging times, and Cyndi shares leadership insights on the incredible power of partnerships.  

In the Rooted in the Mountain State segment from the Department of Agriculture we will learn about a brewery in Greenbrier County West Virginia.  

Baseball has been part of Appalachia since the game started. A staple has always been the Cincinnati Reds. During the coal booms miners would ride the train to Cincinnati from the coal fields catch a couple games and ride the train back home. The reds have a caravan which has player and management who travel from town to town prior to the start of spring training. The reds were in Point Pleasant this past week and Michael Susman caught up with legendary broadcaster Marty Brennaman.    

It has been cold in our region this past few weeks and Doctor Jim Maxwell the State Veterinarian for West Virginia shares information on how cows and other livestock with stand the cold. ]]>1790agriculture,appalachia,baseball,cincinnatireds,cold,cows,facinghungerfoodbank,wvdeptofagfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/midge-s-kitchen-deer-for-the-hungry-mountaineer-foodbank-and-scholarships--63752990General Hoyer’s interview with Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. We heard part 1 last week.

The Department of Agriculture will introduce us to Midge’s Kitchen.

We will learn about an effort to collect deer meat for food pantries along the Ohio River.

Our final segment is about providing scholarships for High School Seniors in Mason and Jackson Counites in West Virginia.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63752990Sun, 19 Jan 2025 16:56:12 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn this week’s Appalachia matters we will hear the conclusion of the General Hoyer’s interview with Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. We heard part 1 last week. The Department of Agriculture will introduce us to Midge’s Kitchen. We will...General Hoyer’s interview with Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. We heard part 1 last week.

The Department of Agriculture will introduce us to Midge’s Kitchen.

We will learn about an effort to collect deer meat for food pantries along the Ohio River.

Our final segment is about providing scholarships for High School Seniors in Mason and Jackson Counites in West Virginia.  ]]>1791appalachia,deerhunters,hunger,midege'skitchen,mountianeerfood,odnr,wvdepartmentofag,wvngfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/food-fairs-weather-and-a-funeral--63658376Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. He sits down with Major General Jim Hoyer.  

In the department of agriculture segment, we will replay a segment from last summer talking about the West Virginia state fair and fairs and festivals. The Fairs and Festivals association is meeting in Charleston this weekend.  

Spencer Atkins with WOWK is one of the best meteorologists in Appalachia. Tom Susman talks with him we deal with this winter weather in the new year.  

In the final segment Tom spoke with Mark Curtis former political correspondent for WOWK TV about the funeral of President Jimmy Carter this past week.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63658376Sun, 12 Jan 2025 14:10:06 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt leadership Table we will learn about the Mountaineer Food Bank from Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. He sits down with Major General Jim Hoyer.   In the department of agriculture segment, we will replay a segment from last summer...Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. He sits down with Major General Jim Hoyer.  

In the department of agriculture segment, we will replay a segment from last summer talking about the West Virginia state fair and fairs and festivals. The Fairs and Festivals association is meeting in Charleston this weekend.  

Spencer Atkins with WOWK is one of the best meteorologists in Appalachia. Tom Susman talks with him we deal with this winter weather in the new year.  

In the final segment Tom spoke with Mark Curtis former political correspondent for WOWK TV about the funeral of President Jimmy Carter this past week.]]>1792appalachia,fooddesert,markcurtis,mountaineerfood,mountaineerfoodbank,presidentcarter,weather,wowk,wvdeptofag,wvngfalse22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gold-star-families-nick-rahall-remembers-jimmy-carter-time-with-hoppy--63658330
In this episode from January 3, 2025, we look back at a special segment on Gold Star Families. 

Former Congressman Nick Rahall remembers former President Jimmy Carter.  

Tom Susman talks with Hoppy Kercheval as he retired on January 3, 2025, from Metronews Talkine.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63658330Sat, 11 Jan 2025 17:56:41 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerGold Star Families, Nick Rahall Remembers Jimmy Carter, Time with Hoppy   In this episode from January 3, 2025, we look back at a special segment on Gold Star Families.  Former Congressman Nick Rahall remembers former President Jimmy Carter.   Tom...
In this episode from January 3, 2025, we look back at a special segment on Gold Star Families. 

Former Congressman Nick Rahall remembers former President Jimmy Carter.  

Tom Susman talks with Hoppy Kercheval as he retired on January 3, 2025, from Metronews Talkine.]]>1783false21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/christmas-tree-farms-holiday-stress-relief-1900s-christmas-celebration-and-young-guns--63437985eneral Jim Hoyer talks about the WV Executive Young Guns program and awards.

In the Department. of Agriculture segment we learn about growing Christmas Trees.

Doctor David Clayman of Charleston, explains how you might avoid Holiday Stress. 

Faith Walker of the Great Bend Museum in Ravenswood talks about an early 1900 school Christmas Party.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63437985Sun, 22 Dec 2024 16:32:07 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table General Jim Hoyer talks about the WV Executive Young Guns program and awards. In the Department. of Agriculture segment we learn about growing Christmas Trees. Doctor David Clayman of Charleston, explains how you might avoid...eneral Jim Hoyer talks about the WV Executive Young Guns program and awards.

In the Department. of Agriculture segment we learn about growing Christmas Trees.

Doctor David Clayman of Charleston, explains how you might avoid Holiday Stress. 

Faith Walker of the Great Bend Museum in Ravenswood talks about an early 1900 school Christmas Party.]]>1711christmastree,davidclayman,ravenswoodwv,wvdeptofag,wvexcutive,wvng,wvufalse126fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pride-of-west-virginia-making-soap-and-supporting-the-symphony--63336469
The Department of Agriculture ssegmen introduces a person who now produces soap.  

In the final segment we hear from three individuals who raised funds for the Ohio Valley Symphony and the Ariel Opera House in Gallipolis Ohio. They competed to be Maestro for the Moment!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63336469Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:44:19 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table Major General Jim Hoyer talks with a member of the WVU Marching Band about the band, leadership, and the bands participation in the Macy’s Day Parade. The Department of Agriculture ssegmen introduces a person who now produces...
The Department of Agriculture ssegmen introduces a person who now produces soap.  

In the final segment we hear from three individuals who raised funds for the Ohio Valley Symphony and the Ariel Opera House in Gallipolis Ohio. They competed to be Maestro for the Moment!]]>1790prideofwv,wvdeapartmentofag,wvng,wvu,wvubandfalse125fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hope-in-appalachia-feeding-the-hungry-and-christmas-celebrations--62988952Major General Jim Hoyer this week is Morgan O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Gas. O’Brien, a native of Pittsburgh, quickly became an honorary Mountaineer who cherishes West Virginians and thinks of Pittsburgh as a suburb of Morgantown. The General and Morgan discuss the process of rebranding Hope Gas and the value of West Virginia as a place to do business.   

Foodbanks in West Virginia work with hunters to donate deer meat to the foodbanks to help those served by the foodbanks. The Department of Agriculture report this week explains the program.  

In the final segment we learn about Christmas plans in three Ohio River communities, Ravenswood, Point Pleasant and Gallia County.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62988952Sun, 24 Nov 2024 18:30:10 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt The Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week is Morgan O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Gas. O’Brien, a native of Pittsburgh, quickly became an honorary Mountaineer who cherishes West Virginians and thinks of...Major General Jim Hoyer this week is Morgan O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Gas. O’Brien, a native of Pittsburgh, quickly became an honorary Mountaineer who cherishes West Virginians and thinks of Pittsburgh as a suburb of Morgantown. The General and Morgan discuss the process of rebranding Hope Gas and the value of West Virginia as a place to do business.   

Foodbanks in West Virginia work with hunters to donate deer meat to the foodbanks to help those served by the foodbanks. The Department of Agriculture report this week explains the program.  

In the final segment we learn about Christmas plans in three Ohio River communities, Ravenswood, Point Pleasant and Gallia County.]]>1790christmas,galliacvb,hopegas,hunters,mountaineerfoodbank,pointpleasantwv,ravenswood,wvngfalse124fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/veterans-day-mara-and-ken-boggs-mason-county-veteran-s-memorial-origin-of-veterans-day--62686203Veterans  and Veterans Day.  

At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans. Mara is an army veteran and former state director for Senator US Senator Joe Manchin, and she heads up the Charleston Area Alliance, Ken is also an army veteran who served Afghanistan and now serves in the Army National Guard. The Boggs live in Charleston.

We will learn about the Department of Agricultures, Veterans to Hero’s to Agriculture program.  

Ever wondered what the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?  Brian McCommon of Morgantown is also a member of the WV Army National Guard and is a protocol officer and he discusses the origins and meaning of Veteran’s Day.    

Veterans day is about cherishing and thanking all veterans and one Ohio River Community is doing just that and we will learn more from Bob Wing who is with the Mason County Veterans Memorial Committee.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62686203Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:50:41 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week’s podcast is dedicated to  Veterans  and Veterans Day.   At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans. Mara is an army veteran and former state director for Senator US...Veterans  and Veterans Day.  

At the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer talks with guests Mara and Ken Boggs, both veterans. Mara is an army veteran and former state director for Senator US Senator Joe Manchin, and she heads up the Charleston Area Alliance, Ken is also an army veteran who served Afghanistan and now serves in the Army National Guard. The Boggs live in Charleston.

We will learn about the Department of Agricultures, Veterans to Hero’s to Agriculture program.  

Ever wondered what the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?  Brian McCommon of Morgantown is also a member of the WV Army National Guard and is a protocol officer and he discusses the origins and meaning of Veteran’s Day.    

Veterans day is about cherishing and thanking all veterans and one Ohio River Community is doing just that and we will learn more from Bob Wing who is with the Mason County Veterans Memorial Committee.]]>1791agriculture,appalachia,charlestonareaalliance,generalhoyer,masonwv,veteran,veteransday,wvngfalse123fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trilogy-inovations-gritts-farms-freddy-shegog-and-gamechangers--62597445Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is joined by Brandon Downey, President, and CEO of Trilogy Innovations. Brandon holds over 25 years of experience in the tech industry in West Virginia and beyond. He shares his journey rising up as a kid from Charlestown to becoming the CEO and co-founder of one of the biggest tech companies in the state. General Hoyer and Brandon also discuss the future of technology here in the Mountain State and the importance of promoting and supporting West Virginia-based businesses doing great things to keep competition, revenue, and jobs thriving here in our communities.

The Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State segment shares the story of Gritts Farms a staple in the agriculture area. Their products are found in grocery stores and farmers markets across the region.    

Last Monday at Point Pleasant High School there was a Game Changer’s event where community members, educators and student came together to network and educate the public on available resources.  They also had a motivational and life lesson speaker Frederick Shegog share his path to sobriety and provide insight.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62597445Sun, 03 Nov 2024 17:21:39 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week, Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is joined by Brandon Downey, President, and CEO of Trilogy Innovations. Brandon holds over 25 years of experience in the tech industry in West Virginia and beyond. He shares his journey rising up as a kid...Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is joined by Brandon Downey, President, and CEO of Trilogy Innovations. Brandon holds over 25 years of experience in the tech industry in West Virginia and beyond. He shares his journey rising up as a kid from Charlestown to becoming the CEO and co-founder of one of the biggest tech companies in the state. General Hoyer and Brandon also discuss the future of technology here in the Mountain State and the importance of promoting and supporting West Virginia-based businesses doing great things to keep competition, revenue, and jobs thriving here in our communities.

The Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State segment shares the story of Gritts Farms a staple in the agriculture area. Their products are found in grocery stores and farmers markets across the region.    

Last Monday at Point Pleasant High School there was a Game Changer’s event where community members, educators and student came together to network and educate the public on available resources.  They also had a motivational and life lesson speaker Frederick Shegog share his path to sobriety and provide insight.    ]]>1777freddyshegog,grittsfarms,pointpleasanthigh,recovery,trilogyinvoations,wvdeptofag,wvgamechangers,wvngfalse122fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/two-million-cans-a-bug-museum-boy-scouts-and-suicide--62513917Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week is the first woman chair of the Mountaineer Area Boy Scouts of America, Amy Garbrick. Amy has also served in important roles in higher education for nearly 20 years. Amy and the General discuss her leadership insights along with the roles scouting holds in building our communities and shared future in the Mountain State.  

We will learn about the Department of Agriculture’s Bug Museum it is unlike any other museum.    

Earlier this month Constellium who has large operation in Millwood West Virginia and Fairplain elementary near Ripley West Virginia announced they are participating in an effort to collect 2 million aluminum cans for recycling.  

Normally this is a politics free zone, however in West Virginia there is a constitutional amendment on the General Election Ballot that would constitutionally ban physician assisted suicide in West Virginia. Aside from all the ethical questions that go along with such a measure, under the current state code, physician assisted suicide is illegal. There is also a fine line between physician assisted suicide and end of life directives such as living wills. To get a clear understanding of the measure, we turned to State Senator Ryan Weld who is the current Vice Chair of West Virginia State Senate Judiciary Committee, he represents the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62513917Sun, 27 Oct 2024 15:00:02 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week is the first woman chair of the Mountaineer Area Boy Scouts of America, Amy Garbrick. Amy has also served in important roles in higher education for nearly 20 years. Amy and the...Retired Major General Jim Hoyer this week is the first woman chair of the Mountaineer Area Boy Scouts of America, Amy Garbrick. Amy has also served in important roles in higher education for nearly 20 years. Amy and the General discuss her leadership insights along with the roles scouting holds in building our communities and shared future in the Mountain State.  

We will learn about the Department of Agriculture’s Bug Museum it is unlike any other museum.    

Earlier this month Constellium who has large operation in Millwood West Virginia and Fairplain elementary near Ripley West Virginia announced they are participating in an effort to collect 2 million aluminum cans for recycling.  

Normally this is a politics free zone, however in West Virginia there is a constitutional amendment on the General Election Ballot that would constitutionally ban physician assisted suicide in West Virginia. Aside from all the ethical questions that go along with such a measure, under the current state code, physician assisted suicide is illegal. There is also a fine line between physician assisted suicide and end of life directives such as living wills. To get a clear understanding of the measure, we turned to State Senator Ryan Weld who is the current Vice Chair of West Virginia State Senate Judiciary Committee, he represents the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia.  ]]>1780appalachia,bsa,bugs,constellium,ryanweld,scoutsbsa,wvfl,wvlegis,wvngfalse121fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pumpkins-umwa-wv-executive-and-chef-paul-smith--62428837General James Hoyer talks with Kenzie Hamilton the publisher of West Virginia Executive Magazine at the Leadership Table. 

We learn about the farmer who grows the pumpkins for the Pumpkin House in Wayne County thanks to the WV Department of Agriculture.  

Chef Paul Smith and Angie Settle of West Virginia Healthright unveil a new training program for those who want to enter the hospitality industry called Appalachia Prepped to Serve.  

Tom Susman talks with coal mine historian Wes Harris, who discusses his new exhibit and a few books he helped to publish.  

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62428837Sun, 20 Oct 2024 13:36:50 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn this episode General James Hoyer talks with Kenzie Hamilton the publisher of West Virginia Executive Magazine at the Leadership Table.  We learn about the farmer who grows the pumpkins for the Pumpkin House in Wayne County thanks to the WV...General James Hoyer talks with Kenzie Hamilton the publisher of West Virginia Executive Magazine at the Leadership Table. 

We learn about the farmer who grows the pumpkins for the Pumpkin House in Wayne County thanks to the WV Department of Agriculture.  

Chef Paul Smith and Angie Settle of West Virginia Healthright unveil a new training program for those who want to enter the hospitality industry called Appalachia Prepped to Serve.  

Tom Susman talks with coal mine historian Wes Harris, who discusses his new exhibit and a few books he helped to publish.  

]]>1789appalachia,chefpaulsmith,pumpkin,umwa,wva,wvexecmag,wvhealthright,wvng,wvufalse120fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gold-star-parents-stan-and-shirley-white-full-interview-with-general-hoyer--62258198General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discuss what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families. This is the full episode. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62258198Sun, 06 Oct 2024 15:01:02 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerSeptember was Gold Star Family Awareness Month, and the last Sunday of September is recognized as Gold Star Mothers and Families Day in West Virginia. In honor of that, At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and...General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discuss what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families. This is the full episode. ]]>1408falsebonushttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gold-star-familes-bees-keith-morehouse-rio-growth-and-stem--62258122 Gold Star Mothers and Families Day in West Virginia. In honor of that, At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discuss what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families.   

The Department of Agriculture provides information on becoming a beekeeper. 

Michael Susman talks with Keith Morehouse of WSAZ TV.  

The University of Rio Grande in Ohio has had a 10% growth in enrollment, Tom Susman talks with Ryan Smith who is President of the University.  

In the final segment we will hear about a special STEM event at Cottageville Elementary led by Timet who is building a Titanium plant in the Mid-Ohio Valley.  


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62258122Sun, 06 Oct 2024 14:53:32 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerSeptember was Gold Star Family Awareness Month, and the last Sunday of September was recognized as Gold Star Mothers and Families Day in West Virginia. In honor of that, At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and... Gold Star Mothers and Families Day in West Virginia. In honor of that, At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week are veteran advocates and Gold Star Parents Shirley and Stan White. They discuss what a Gold Star Family really is and offer insight into several important initiatives going on throughout the state to help support veterans and military families.   

The Department of Agriculture provides information on becoming a beekeeper. 

Michael Susman talks with Keith Morehouse of WSAZ TV.  

The University of Rio Grande in Ohio has had a 10% growth in enrollment, Tom Susman talks with Ryan Smith who is President of the University.  

In the final segment we will hear about a special STEM event at Cottageville Elementary led by Timet who is building a Titanium plant in the Mid-Ohio Valley.  


]]>1791beekeeper,goldstar,marshallsports,wsaz,wvdeptofag,wvlegis,wvngfalse119fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mary-the-mounatineer-spotted-flies-softballer-amy-grady-and-the-drought--62154484Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Mary Roush former WVU Mountaineer. She is young leader from Mason County.

The WV Department of Ag provides great information on the Spotted Lantern Fly.

Michael Susman talks with Senator Amy Grady about her softball career, her induction to the Mid-Ohio Valley Softball Hall of Fame and lessons learned.

We hear from JJ Barrett WVU Extension Agent from Wood County on the drought, while we are getting rain it will take time for the water table to recover. He also provides advice for area farmers.   ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62154484Sun, 29 Sep 2024 15:21:13 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerMajor General Jim Hoyer talks with Mary Roush former WVU Mountaineer. She is young leader from Mason County. The WV Department of Ag provides great information on the Spotted Lantern Fly. Michael Susman talks with Senator Amy Grady about her...Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Mary Roush former WVU Mountaineer. She is young leader from Mason County.

The WV Department of Ag provides great information on the Spotted Lantern Fly.

Michael Susman talks with Senator Amy Grady about her softball career, her induction to the Mid-Ohio Valley Softball Hall of Fame and lessons learned.

We hear from JJ Barrett WVU Extension Agent from Wood County on the drought, while we are getting rain it will take time for the water table to recover. He also provides advice for area farmers.   ]]>1801amynicholegrad2,marygraceroush,westvirginia,wvdeptofag,wvlegis,wvsenate,wvu,wvumountaineerfalse118fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/apples-under-attack-lost-voices-your-leader-and-forgotten-graveyards--61825201
We learn about the the hurdles facing apple growers and producers.

The Lost Voices Group speaks for those in recovery at an event in Pomeroy Ohio.

In our final,  segment WV Delegate Steve Westfall discusses the problems with forgotten graveyards in West Virginia. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61825201Mon, 16 Sep 2024 11:44:25 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Jenna Stewart, a young emerging leader focusing on evidence-based communication for public good in West Virginia. She shares insight from her work on projects to benefit West Virginians in her...
We learn about the the hurdles facing apple growers and producers.

The Lost Voices Group speaks for those in recovery at an event in Pomeroy Ohio.

In our final,  segment WV Delegate Steve Westfall discusses the problems with forgotten graveyards in West Virginia. ]]>1721appalachia,applefarming,apples,graveyard,recovery,sud,wvlegis,wvngfalse117fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cyber-security-drought-and-helping-children--61305709
With most of West Virginia in a D3 or D4 drought area the Department of Agriculture provides direction to farmers on their options. We also hear from the Ohio Farm Bureau Reprensetitive Ty Higgins on what is happening in Ohio with the drought.  

In the final segment Bo Higby talks with Amanda McCracken on efforts for Children in Jackson County. Her programs can be transplanted in other communities.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61305709Mon, 09 Sep 2024 01:10:25 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Evan Bays, a leading subject matter expert in biometrics and Vice President of Engineering and Department of Justice Operations at IDEMIA National Security Solutions in Morgantown. Evan grew up...
With most of West Virginia in a D3 or D4 drought area the Department of Agriculture provides direction to farmers on their options. We also hear from the Ohio Farm Bureau Reprensetitive Ty Higgins on what is happening in Ohio with the drought.  

In the final segment Bo Higby talks with Amanda McCracken on efforts for Children in Jackson County. Her programs can be transplanted in other communities.  ]]>1694drought,ohiofaramers,wvngfalse116fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/food-farms-fairs-and-family--61233016
The Department of Agriculture Highlights a family farm in Baker West Virginia which received an award during the West Virginia State Fair.    
Tom Susman replays some highlights from area fairs that were held this summer.  

Bo Higby highlights a coming Family Fundamental Festival set for this weekend between Ripley and Charleston]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61233016Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:47:23 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerOn this week’s show General Hoyer talks with Kelsey Kirby about her new restaurant in Morgantown.   The Department of Agriculture Highlights a family farm in Baker West Virginia which received an award during the West Virginia State Fair.     Tom...
The Department of Agriculture Highlights a family farm in Baker West Virginia which received an award during the West Virginia State Fair.    
Tom Susman replays some highlights from area fairs that were held this summer.  

Bo Higby highlights a coming Family Fundamental Festival set for this weekend between Ripley and Charleston]]>1791false115fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-the-leadershio-table-quincy-wilson-at-rio-animal-health-at-fairs-foster-care--61078821General Hoyer this week is Kirk Copen, a Preston County native and Senior Director of Solutions at IDEMIA National Security Solutions in Morgantown. Kirk has worked in the tech industry for more than 20 years and wants our high school and college students to know that they can contribute to cutting-edge technology and national security from right here in the Mountain State. 

The Ag Department talks animal health at State Fair 

WVU Great Quincy Wilson discusses his next chapter at Rio. 

Bo Higby talks foster care.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61078821Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:28:16 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAt the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Kirk Copen, a Preston County native and Senior Director of Solutions at IDEMIA National Security Solutions in Morgantown. Kirk has worked in the tech industry for more than 20 years and wants our...General Hoyer this week is Kirk Copen, a Preston County native and Senior Director of Solutions at IDEMIA National Security Solutions in Morgantown. Kirk has worked in the tech industry for more than 20 years and wants our high school and college students to know that they can contribute to cutting-edge technology and national security from right here in the Mountain State. 

The Ag Department talks animal health at State Fair 

WVU Great Quincy Wilson discusses his next chapter at Rio. 

Bo Higby talks foster care.]]>1790wvlegis,wvng,wvu,wvufootballfalse114fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bonus-at-the-leadership-table-with-major-general-jim-hoyer-and-randy-cottle--60987127General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon Mountain” – West Virginia’s counterpart to California’s Silicon Valley.

This the full interview.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60987127Sun, 11 Aug 2024 14:24:27 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon...General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon Mountain” – West Virginia’s counterpart to California’s Silicon Valley.

This the full interview.]]>1381falsebonushttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-wv-silicon-mountain-university-of-rio-grande-wv-royalty-and-the-state-fair--60987048General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon Mountain” – West Virginia’s counterpart to California’s Silicon Valley.   

The Agricultural Department highlights what the do at the state fair.   

The University of Rio Grande is growing at a time when many colleges and universities are closing. Tom Susman attended a Ribbon Cutting for a new dorm on campus. He talks with President Ryan Smith, Board Chair Robin Fowler, and Quincy Wilson the new football coach.  

Bo Higby in the Community Segment talks with the Royalty from the Ohio River Festival. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60987048Sun, 11 Aug 2024 14:19:53 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon...General Hoyer sits down with Randy Cottle, president, and co-founder of Trilogy Innovations. Randy and his group are training the next generation of tech leaders who are helping to grow the booming tech economy in what he calls the “Silicon Mountain” – West Virginia’s counterpart to California’s Silicon Valley.   

The Agricultural Department highlights what the do at the state fair.   

The University of Rio Grande is growing at a time when many colleges and universities are closing. Tom Susman attended a Ribbon Cutting for a new dorm on campus. He talks with President Ryan Smith, Board Chair Robin Fowler, and Quincy Wilson the new football coach.  

Bo Higby in the Community Segment talks with the Royalty from the Ohio River Festival. ]]>1791appalachia,uriogrande,@uriogrande,wvdeptofag,wvng,wvstatefair,wvufalse113fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-at-the-leadership-table-log-homes-ems-crisis-and-west-virginia-grown--60917077General Hoyer sat down with Bray Skinner, a West Virginian veteran of the U.S. Navy and a kayaking and nature enthusiast who has braved waterways all over the globe. Bryar and the General talk about what it means to be a veteran pursuing higher education at Fairmont State using the GI Bill and what the outdoors can teach all of us about leading and trusting others.  

In the Department of Agriculture segment the department discusses the West Virginia Grown Program and how you can by West Virginia food products, including restaurants that have West Virginia ingredients in some of their menu items.  

In the Health Segment Tom Susman talks with Chris Hall of the West Virginia EMS Coalition about the crisis facing emergency ambulance providers in the region. Many squads are stressed and some have even closed.  
 
In the Community segment Bo Higby talks with a log home manufacturer. The company uses many types of lumber, and they are in Appalachia.    ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60917077Sun, 04 Aug 2024 13:43:18 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week’s Appalachia episode has great segments:   At the leadership table this week General Hoyer sat down with Bray Skinner, a West Virginian veteran of the U.S. Navy and a kayaking and nature enthusiast who has braved waterways all over the...General Hoyer sat down with Bray Skinner, a West Virginian veteran of the U.S. Navy and a kayaking and nature enthusiast who has braved waterways all over the globe. Bryar and the General talk about what it means to be a veteran pursuing higher education at Fairmont State using the GI Bill and what the outdoors can teach all of us about leading and trusting others.  

In the Department of Agriculture segment the department discusses the West Virginia Grown Program and how you can by West Virginia food products, including restaurants that have West Virginia ingredients in some of their menu items.  

In the Health Segment Tom Susman talks with Chris Hall of the West Virginia EMS Coalition about the crisis facing emergency ambulance providers in the region. Many squads are stressed and some have even closed.  
 
In the Community segment Bo Higby talks with a log home manufacturer. The company uses many types of lumber, and they are in Appalachia.    ]]>1791fairmontstate,loghomes,wvdeptofag,wvems,wvlegis,wvng,wvufalse112fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-full-interview-with-chef-paul-smith-at-the-leadership-table-with-gen-jim-hoyer--60835945FULL INTERVIEW WITH CHEF PAUL SMITH

This week at the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James Beard Award winner (an award that’s like the Oscars of culinary arts, given for excellence in American cuisine).

In his acceptance speech at the award ceremony, Chef Paul started by saying that he’d utter two words that had never before been said on that national stage: West Virginia. Hear more from him about his remarkable journey that led him back to serve his roots in Appalachian hospitality.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60835945Sun, 28 Jul 2024 13:20:02 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerFULL INTERVIEW WITH CHEF PAUL SMITH This week at the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James...FULL INTERVIEW WITH CHEF PAUL SMITH

This week at the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James Beard Award winner (an award that’s like the Oscars of culinary arts, given for excellence in American cuisine).

In his acceptance speech at the award ceremony, Chef Paul started by saying that he’d utter two words that had never before been said on that national stage: West Virginia. Hear more from him about his remarkable journey that led him back to serve his roots in Appalachian hospitality.]]>1457falsebonushttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-with-chef-paul-smith-ffa-leadership-mountaineer-food-bank-and-4-h--60835860Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James Beard Award winner (an award that’s like the Oscars of culinary arts, given for excellence in American cuisine). In his acceptance speech at the award ceremony, Chef Paul started by saying that he’d utter two words that had never before been said on that national stage: West Virginia.

Hear more from him about his remarkable journey that led him back to serve his roots in Appalachian hospitality.  

In the Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State segment we hear about the FFA and service including work with the Mountaineer Food Bank.  

Bo Higby learns about the importance of 4-H in our region and what it means to young people.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60835860Sun, 28 Jul 2024 13:00:04 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week at the Leadership Table with Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James Beard Award winner (an award that’s...Retired Major General Jim Hoyer is a truly inspirational guest. Chef Paul Smith was the 2023 West Virginian of the Year, and most recently, West Virginia’s very first James Beard Award winner (an award that’s like the Oscars of culinary arts, given for excellence in American cuisine). In his acceptance speech at the award ceremony, Chef Paul started by saying that he’d utter two words that had never before been said on that national stage: West Virginia.

Hear more from him about his remarkable journey that led him back to serve his roots in Appalachian hospitality.  

In the Department of Agriculture’s Rooted in the Mountain State segment we hear about the FFA and service including work with the Mountaineer Food Bank.  

Bo Higby learns about the importance of 4-H in our region and what it means to young people.]]>1791almostheaven,appalachia,chefpaulsmith,ffa,mountaineerfoodbank,wva,wvdeptofagfalse111fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-mid-air-refueling-hemp-bees-and-the-glow-movement--60757560
At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Andrew Stover, an airman in the National Guard who helps refuel other planes while they are both in flight! Andrew is a university student, a volunteer with the Veterans History Project through the Library of Congress, and he’s a new dad!  

He talks about the roles of time management and volunteer work as an up-and-coming leader and shares upcoming opportunities in the Mountain State to help veterans in their quest to continue their service as civilians as they transition from military positions.    

In the West Virginia Department of Agriculture's segment West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt talks about West Virginia’s hemp industry.  He talks about the various uses and various regulatory issues. Hemp is used in clothes, production of CBD Oil and other products.    

Tom Susman talks with the Herns about their thriving honey business. They got in to raising bees and producing honey because of a Christmas gift from their kids. Tom caught up with them at a Farmers Market.  

The Glow Movement is active in the Mid-Ohio Valley to help those who are dealing with addiction. Bo Higby talks with the founder of the movement. Out of loss comes this important organization.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60757560Sun, 21 Jul 2024 14:00:34 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerWelcome to this week’s edition of Appalachia Matters   At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Andrew Stover, an airman in the National Guard who helps refuel other planes while they are both in flight! Andrew is a university student,...
At the Leadership Table with General Hoyer this week is Andrew Stover, an airman in the National Guard who helps refuel other planes while they are both in flight! Andrew is a university student, a volunteer with the Veterans History Project through the Library of Congress, and he’s a new dad!  

He talks about the roles of time management and volunteer work as an up-and-coming leader and shares upcoming opportunities in the Mountain State to help veterans in their quest to continue their service as civilians as they transition from military positions.    

In the West Virginia Department of Agriculture's segment West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt talks about West Virginia’s hemp industry.  He talks about the various uses and various regulatory issues. Hemp is used in clothes, production of CBD Oil and other products.    

Tom Susman talks with the Herns about their thriving honey business. They got in to raising bees and producing honey because of a Christmas gift from their kids. Tom caught up with them at a Farmers Market.  

The Glow Movement is active in the Mid-Ohio Valley to help those who are dealing with addiction. Bo Higby talks with the founder of the movement. Out of loss comes this important organization.]]>1807adddiction,agriculture,appalchia,bees,hemp,honey,leadership,wvng,wvufalse110fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-at-the-leadership-table-bee-monk-flood-protection-vail-furniture--60682526
At the leadership table with General Hoyer this week is Kayla Stein, a Business and Communication Specialist at Trilogy Innovations. Originally from New York, Kayla came here for her education, and she came back to work and live in West Virginia after that. She says she knew that the Mountain State was a place where she could not only be comfortable and supported but also grow in a thriving technology environment — and compete at the national level in the tech communications arena. Kayla urges all young technology leaders to come to West Virginia, which she says is at the forefront of innovation. 

In the Department of Agriculture segment, we learn about a Bee Monk from Wayne County he has bee colonies at the Monastery in Wayne County.  

Tom Susman sits down with a representative of the Ohio DNR to talk about the National Flood Insurance Program and flood management regulations.  

Bo Higby talks with Dave from Vail Furniture in Ripley, the oldest furniture store in West Virginia. It opened before the start of the Civil War.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60682526Sun, 14 Jul 2024 13:01:00 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn this week’s show:   At the leadership table with General Hoyer this week is Kayla Stein, a Business and Communication Specialist at Trilogy Innovations. Originally from New York, Kayla came here for her education, and she came back to work and...
At the leadership table with General Hoyer this week is Kayla Stein, a Business and Communication Specialist at Trilogy Innovations. Originally from New York, Kayla came here for her education, and she came back to work and live in West Virginia after that. She says she knew that the Mountain State was a place where she could not only be comfortable and supported but also grow in a thriving technology environment — and compete at the national level in the tech communications arena. Kayla urges all young technology leaders to come to West Virginia, which she says is at the forefront of innovation. 

In the Department of Agriculture segment, we learn about a Bee Monk from Wayne County he has bee colonies at the Monastery in Wayne County.  

Tom Susman sits down with a representative of the Ohio DNR to talk about the National Flood Insurance Program and flood management regulations.  

Bo Higby talks with Dave from Vail Furniture in Ripley, the oldest furniture store in West Virginia. It opened before the start of the Civil War.]]>1800appalachia,appalachiamatters,fema,odnr,vailfurniture,wvag,wvangfalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cyber-security-sheep-shearing-farmacy-herbalist-and-community-churches--60627729
General Hoyer sat at the Leadership Table with Amond Bailey, a young veteran who came from DC to the Mountain State for college at Marshall and hasn’t looked back. Amond is a Cyber Operations Officer with the West Virginia National Guard and National Leadership Fellow of the Student Veterans of America.  

Tom Susman talks with Jackson County Farmer Eddie Smolder about his sheep shearing exhibition at the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair.  

The Department of Agriculture provides background on their Farmacy Program that encourages residents to eat healthy West Virginia Grown products.  

We will meet a West Virginia Herbalist who learned her craft from her grandfather.

In the Community Segment Bo Higby meets a Community Church Pastor, Appalachia has many independent churches.  ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60627729Sun, 07 Jul 2024 23:56:04 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis week’s Appalachia Matters is a great show packed with fantastic interviews.   General Hoyer sat at the Leadership Table with Amond Bailey, a young veteran who came from DC to the Mountain State for college at Marshall and hasn’t looked back....
General Hoyer sat at the Leadership Table with Amond Bailey, a young veteran who came from DC to the Mountain State for college at Marshall and hasn’t looked back. Amond is a Cyber Operations Officer with the West Virginia National Guard and National Leadership Fellow of the Student Veterans of America.  

Tom Susman talks with Jackson County Farmer Eddie Smolder about his sheep shearing exhibition at the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair.  

The Department of Agriculture provides background on their Farmacy Program that encourages residents to eat healthy West Virginia Grown products.  

We will meet a West Virginia Herbalist who learned her craft from her grandfather.

In the Community Segment Bo Higby meets a Community Church Pastor, Appalachia has many independent churches.  ]]>1800agriculture,farmacy,herbs,hollistic,homecures,wvngfalse18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-taylor-county-programs-ag-department-roles-work-force-and-float-trip-on-the-coal--60480097Special Taylor County Programs, Ag Department Roles, Work Force, and Float Trip on the Coal

This week the Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Bryan Smith, an everyday West Virginian who has been helping to make big positive changes in his Taylor County community one person at a time, ranging from his work leading Project HOP2E (Helping Our People to Eat) and contributing to a local Farmer’s Market, to leading the Adventure Club — which has put an inflatable water park on the Tygart River, rents out tubes and kayaks, holds cancer fundraising events, started a flea market, has taken over and cleaned up the Grafton City Campground, and so much more. 

In our Agricultural Segment, West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt discusses the various roles of the department from regulator to promoter of agriculture.  

Tom Susman covers a recent signing ceremony at Constellium Rolled products in Ravenswood between Constellium and WVU Parkersburg.  The participating rising seniors from high schools in Roane, Wood, Mason, and Jackson County will enter a program that upon completion will earn an associate degree and have the opportunity to be employed by the plant.  

In the final segment Bo Higby talks with organizers of a float trip on the Coal River in Boone County set for the last Saturday in July.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60480097Sun, 23 Jun 2024 15:22:15 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerSpecial Taylor County Programs, Ag Department Roles, Work Force, and Float Trip on the Coal This week the Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Bryan Smith, an everyday West Virginian who has been helping to make big positive changes in his Taylor...Special Taylor County Programs, Ag Department Roles, Work Force, and Float Trip on the Coal

This week the Major General Jim Hoyer talks with Bryan Smith, an everyday West Virginian who has been helping to make big positive changes in his Taylor County community one person at a time, ranging from his work leading Project HOP2E (Helping Our People to Eat) and contributing to a local Farmer’s Market, to leading the Adventure Club — which has put an inflatable water park on the Tygart River, rents out tubes and kayaks, holds cancer fundraising events, started a flea market, has taken over and cleaned up the Grafton City Campground, and so much more. 

In our Agricultural Segment, West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt discusses the various roles of the department from regulator to promoter of agriculture.  

Tom Susman covers a recent signing ceremony at Constellium Rolled products in Ravenswood between Constellium and WVU Parkersburg.  The participating rising seniors from high schools in Roane, Wood, Mason, and Jackson County will enter a program that upon completion will earn an associate degree and have the opportunity to be employed by the plant.  

In the final segment Bo Higby talks with organizers of a float trip on the Coal River in Boone County set for the last Saturday in July.]]>1801constellium,taylorcounty,workforce,wvagriculture,wvng,wvupfalse17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-the-leadership-table-gold-star-moms-and-canning-tips--60408775
Our final segment is on how you can and preserve food for later use and hopefully reduce costs and improve the quality of your food.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60408775Mon, 17 Jun 2024 09:05:00 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn this episode Major General Jim Hoyer interviews Brad Price, we also have segment on a special Gold Star Moms project with the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.  Our final segment is on how you can and preserve food for later use and...
Our final segment is on how you can and preserve food for later use and hopefully reduce costs and improve the quality of your food.]]>1794false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matter-episode-5-leadership-avian-flu-and-ticks--60328947
In our final segment we talk about the rising cost of insurance.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60328947Sun, 09 Jun 2024 14:16:11 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerThis is a packed show with Major General Jim Hoyer talking leadership with Wally Hatfield, West Virginia Ag Commissioner Kent Leonhardt discusses Avian Flu in Dairy Cattle. In our health section we learn about ticks and other needed summer health...
In our final segment we talk about the rising cost of insurance.

]]>1796appalachia,avian,dairy,wv,wvbph,wvngfalse15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/june-2-appalachia-matters--60254937Doctor Lisa Costello who is at the leadership table with retired Major General Jim Hoyer. In our agriculture segment we will learn about a meat producer from southeastern West Virginia and in our health section we learn about a special grade given Holzer Health.

In our final segment we will celebrate the opening of the $35 million dollar expansion at Jackson General Hospital. We will hear from Albert Wright of WVU Medicine and Jackson General CEO Stephanie McCoy.

Appalachia Matters is a weekly radio show highlighting life in Appalachia. Each week we have a segment on leadership from retired Major General Jim Hoyer, features highlighting agriculture in our region, health care updates from Tom Susman and our host Bo Higby each week highlights a story of community interest. The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners.   


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60254937Sun, 02 Jun 2024 15:34:03 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerIn this week’s episode we will hear from Doctor Lisa Costello who is at the leadership table with retired Major General Jim Hoyer. In our agriculture segment we will learn about a meat producer from southeastern West Virginia and in our health section...Doctor Lisa Costello who is at the leadership table with retired Major General Jim Hoyer. In our agriculture segment we will learn about a meat producer from southeastern West Virginia and in our health section we learn about a special grade given Holzer Health.

In our final segment we will celebrate the opening of the $35 million dollar expansion at Jackson General Hospital. We will hear from Albert Wright of WVU Medicine and Jackson General CEO Stephanie McCoy.

Appalachia Matters is a weekly radio show highlighting life in Appalachia. Each week we have a segment on leadership from retired Major General Jim Hoyer, features highlighting agriculture in our region, health care updates from Tom Susman and our host Bo Higby each week highlights a story of community interest. The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners.   


]]>1795false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/appalachia-matters-for-memorial-day--60254928
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60254928Sun, 02 Jun 2024 15:24:33 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAppalachia Matters is a weekly radio show highlighting life in Appalachia. Each week we have a segment on leadership from retired Major General Jim Hoyer, features highlighting agriculture in our region, health care updates from Tom Susman and our...
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>1801wv,wvag,wvemsfalse12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/applachia-matters-episode-1--60254887
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60254887Sun, 02 Jun 2024 15:21:06 +0000Thomas Susman, ProducerAppalachia Matters is a weekly radio show highlighting life in Appalachia. Each week we have a segment on leadership from retired Major General Jim Hoyer, features highlighting agriculture in our region, health care updates from Tom Susman and our...
The show is produced by Vandalia Media Partners. 
]]>1791wv,wvag,wvufalse11full