Rural Remix

How have rural and urban economies diverged in recent decades, and what effect has that had on the geography of American politics? In this episode, Daily Yonder reporter Olivia Weeks speaks with historian Keith Orejel and journalist Nick Bowlin about the history of “small-town boosters,” the outsized effect of the Great Recession on rural America, and the lack of corporate accountability in sparsely populated places.

Hours-long lines, faulty vehicle permitting systems, and poorly maintained facilities beg one question: are there too many people visiting national parks?

Who is the rural voter and what does she stand for? In conversation with political scientists Nicholas Jacobs and Chelsea Kaufman, Daily Yonder reporter Olivia Weeks discusses the demographics of the rural electorate. In this episode, learn more about who actually turns out to the polls and the values that motivate their decisions.

Rural Assembly Everywhere virtual event is August 1st, 2024 at 1 pm Eastern. Register now! In a year marked by elections and challenges, it’s essential to shift our focus toward envisioning what it truly means for rural areas to flourish. That’s why this year’s Rural Assembly Everywhere will explore a diverse range of topics, all centered on nurturing ourselves and our rural communities. Hear from rural leaders, organizers, community workers and artists as we explore what it means to nurture a thriving community. REGISTER NOW! Read more about our panels and speakers here!

In this episode of Backroads Ballots, Daily Yonder reporter Olivia Weeks asks what the post-2016 years have taught us about progressive organizing in small-town America. With rural movement builders Annie Contractor and Anthony Flaccavento, they discuss the role of the labor movement in rural life, the “branding problem” facing Democrats, and the mismatch between short-term election cycles and long-term structural change.

Kamala Harris is most likely the new Democratic nominee for president. Does she have what it takes to win rural voters?

Daily Yonder reporter Claire Carlson's recent bat encounter on a camping trip prompted this episode all about the only mammal that flies. Over the past decade, a fungal disease has killed millions of bats in North America. The struggle to contain the disease illustrates how little control we humans have over illness and death, much to our own chagrin.

Are rural communities prone to conspiracy? Not necessarily. Daily Yonder reporter Claire Carlson breaks down this misconception by looking at the notorious Bundy family and the election denial movement.

Lois Keller is an avid baker and a spokesperson for the Kansas Wheat Commission. In this episode, she speaks about how her son’s diagnosis of Celiac disease has been a part of her baking history and all about many unique German bread recipes.  Check out recipes, show notes, and more on our website.

On this episode we are learning all about the art of making biscuits! Appalachian leader Margo Miller speaks about how a middle school competition led to a lifelong passion for biscuits and how she is returning to her roots through crafting and baking.   Check out the recipe, show notes, and more on our website.