September is #HungerActionMonth and in this week’s finale of The Mountain Spirit, we’re pulling up a chair with Melonie Effler, known affectionately as "Momma Mel". From her East Tennessee roots to her kitchen ministry, Mel’s story is a reminder that food isn’t just fuel. It’s love, faith, and family. Come sit with us and feel the heart behind every bite.

Kentucky’s own Jordan Allen, who was featured on Season 27 of The Voice, joins our show to share how his Appalachian roots shaped his music and mission. From small-town stages to national spotlight, Jordan’s story is one of grit, grace, and the power of community. Tune in to hear how he’s lifting up the next generation of Appalachian songwriters.

On today's episode of The Mountain Spirit podcast, filmmaker and cultural preservationist Kelley St. Germain shares how storytelling became a mission to protect Appalachian heritage. Kelley is the founder of Germain Media, LLC and Appalachian Memory Keepers. Tune in for a powerful reminder of why these stories matter—and why they must be preserved.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Geraldine Bard, co-founder of Project FLIGHT, a groundbreaking literacy initiative that has placed over 3 million books into the hands of children and families across the globe. From Buffalo to Micronesia, Dr. Bard shares how her mission to promote literacy as a tool for equity, peace, and opportunity has transformed lives and communities. We explore the roots of Project FLIGHT, the power of family engagement, and why literacy is more than just reading—it’s a social justice issue.

In today's episode of The Mountain Spirit Podcast, we sit down with Robin Gabbard, president of Mountain Association. Robin explores her lifelong dedication to Appalachia and her vision for building a new economy in Eastern Kentucky. Join us as she shares stories of resilience, innovation, and community transformation through the Mountain Association’s work in business lending, energy efficiency, and policy advocacy.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tiffany Sturdivant, a former nurse turned powerhouse cultural leader and Executive Director of Appalshop. From her roots in Mississippi community activism to her current work preserving Appalachian voices, Tiffany shares her journey of transformation, resilience, and radical care. She leads with heart and heritage where art, advocacy, and voting rights in the South intersect. She will share what it means to lead with joy, purpose, and a deep love of place.