
The Mountain Spirit, a Christian Appalachian Project podcast, shares inspirational stories of faith, service, and compassion. There are many challenges in Appalachia, but also there is a mountain spirit that embodies resilience and perseverance, underpinned by faith. Join host, Tina Bryson, to hear stories of hope and encouragement that celebrate the best of our shared humanity.
Episode 35 (S6E6): Faith, Sports, and Appalachia w/ Matt Jones
Get ready for an exciting episode as we welcome today's guest, Matt Jones, founder and host of Kentucky Sports Radio. During the heart of March Madness, Matt stops by to share his heart for Appalachia. From humble beginnings in Middlesboro, KY to becoming a sports media figure featured on HBO and ESPN, Matt's journey is extraordinary. Tune in to hear how his Appalachian roots have shaped his identity, faith, and philanthropic work, making him the inspiring figure he is today.
Episode 34 (S6E5): Exploring Appalachian Arts w/ Robert Daniels
Get ready for an electrifying episode as we go behind the scenes with Robert Daniels, the Technical Director at the Mountain Arts Center! With over 20 years of experience, Robert has been the driving force behind countless breathtaking performances. Tune in for an inspiring adventure into the world of live entertainment in Appalachia!
Episode 33 (S6E4): Talking About Home w/ Jeremiah Parsons
This week's guest is Jeremiah Parsons, Executive Director of Tourism for Paintsville, Kentucky. A native of Floyd County, Jeremiah has been involved in tourism since 2002, starting at Jenny Wiley Theatre as Sales and Marketing Director. Jeremiah is passionate about the arts and education, serving as President and Director of Main Street Players in Paintsville, KY. He shares with us the significance of the Historic SIPP Theater in downtown Paintsville and how his job is the best in the world because he gets to "talk about home."
Episode 32 (S6E3): Revolutionizing Public Health w/ Angela Carman
What does it take to create real change in public health? Angela Carman—researcher, innovator, and community advocate—is on a mission to make an impact. With funding from NIH, CDC, and Robert Wood Johnson, she’s revolutionizing how we implement interventions, engage communities, and improve public health systems. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation—because the future of public health starts NOW!
Episode 31 (S6E2): Housing Hope w/ Vonda Poynter
For over 35 years, Vonda has been a driving force in affordable housing and community development, connecting leaders, transforming lives, and strengthening communities across six states. As Fahe’s Senior VP of Membership, she’s not just building networks—she’s building a legacy. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will ignite your own mission for change.
Episode 30 (S6E1): Giving Appalachians A Voice w/ Melissa Helton
In this gripping season premiere, we sit down with Melissa Helton, Literary Arts Director at Hindman Settlement School and editor of Troublesome Rising—a raw and powerful anthology capturing the devastation of the July 2022 floods through the voices of Appalachian writers.