Best Folklore On The Rocks Podcasts (2025)

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The Harrison Gang's Last Train Robbery: The West Virginia Heist of 1915 17:05

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10h ago17:05

17:05

In this episode, we tell the dramatic true story of Charles Jefferson Harrison, a respected San Antonio businessman who became one of Appalachia's most elusive train robbers. Caught when an employee tried to deposit some of the loot from a 1915 robbery, Harrison and his partners in crime were tried in Martinsburg, West Virginia in 1916, where the g…

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The Greeno Mine Disaster: Tacoma, Virginia 14:57

7d ago14:57

14:57

On December 14, 1910, a deadly explosion rocked the Greeno Mine in Tacoma, Virginia, claiming 14 lives and leaving a lasting mark on the Appalachian coalfields. Today we tell the story of Irish immigrant Patrick Hagan, who once owned the land on which the mine was located, and the dangerous conditions that led to this tragedy. It’s another one of t…

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The Wild Cast - Casting Lines in the Beehive State 29:52

9d ago29:52

29:52

In this episode, JB will tell you all about fishing in Utah.By Undiscovered Utah

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An Appalachian Preacher’s Fall: Bigamy, Abduction and Deceit 14:18

14d ago14:18

14:18

A preacher with five wives, a kidnapped teenage girl, and a cross-country manhunt. This isn’t fiction, it’s the unbelievable true story of Joseph Herman Johnson, a Primitive Baptist minister whose lies and crimes unraveled in an East Tennessee courtroom in 1927. From bigamy to abduction to a bizarre promise of Hollywood stardom to his victim, this …

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Beyond Bristol: The Legacy of the Johnson City Sessions 12:39

21d ago12:39

12:39

In this episode we explore the lesser-known but historically rich Johnson City Sessions of 1928 and 1929. While the Bristol Sessions are often credited as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” Johnson City played a vital follow-up role in capturing the authentic sounds of Appalachia. Frank Buckley Walker, a Columbia Records talent scout, recorded loca…

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Appalachia’s Iron Lady: The Story of Nannie Kelly Wright 15:50

28d ago15:50

15:50

Nannie Kelly Wright ran an iron furnace at a time when most women weren’t even allowed near one. Born in Kentucky, raised on the Ohio River, and later married into the iron industry, Nannie became one of the few women in American history to manage a furnace operation herself — traveling weekly, overseeing workers, and building a fortune. Once rumor…

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The Lumber King of Appalachia 16:58

1M ago16:58

16:58

William McClellan Ritter didn’t just cut down trees, he built an empire. In this week’s episode, we tell his story, from Pennsylvania farm boy to head of one of the world’s largest lumber companies. He built railroads, ran coal mines, advised the U.S. war effort in World War I and once gifted $3 million to his workers. But that story also includes …

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Lost Treasure and Blind Frogs 27:43

1M ago27:43

27:43

Join JB as he uncovers some of the most captivating lost treasure legends from across Utah. From hidden caches to forgotten fortunes, these stories might just inspire your own hunt for buried wealth.By Undiscovered Utah

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Echoes of Honor - The War Memorial in Charleston 16:17

1M ago16:17

16:17

In this special episode of West Virginia Talk, James and Jerry journey to the heart of Charleston to explore one of the state's most solemn landmarks. Through rich storytelling this episode brings to life the monuments that stand tall and carry the names of the men and women of our state that served in the armed forces. Discover the monument made w…

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Tragedy on the Frontier: The Corbly Family Massacre 13:16

1M ago13:16

13:16

On a quiet Sunday morning in the spring of 1782, Pastor John Corbly and his family were headed for church when he realized he’d forgotten his Bible and turned back alone to get it. That action saved his life when his family was ambushed by Indians. In this episode of the Stories podcast, Steve and Rod tell the chilling true story of the Corbly fami…

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The Story of Gus McCoig, Appalachia's Little Dillinger 22:42

2M ago22:42

22:42

On this episode of the Stories podcast, we tell the dramatic tale of Gus McCoig, a Jefferson County boy who became one of East Tennessee’s most notorious Depression-era outlaws. McCoig’s story starts with his chance encounter with outlaw Clarence Bunch in a jail cell, followed by their escape and his later capture and conviction for crimes he commi…

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Tennessee’s Gilded Getaway: The Rise and Fall of the Tate Springs Hotel 12:30

2M ago12:30

12:30

Step back in time to the golden era of Appalachian luxury as we explore the rise and fall of Tate Springs, a once-famous resort in Bean Station, Tennessee. Known for its healing mineral spring, lush golf course, and elite clientele, including the Rockefellers and Fords, Tate Springs was the South's hidden gem. Discover how this jewel of East Tennes…

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The Thousand Mile Yoyage: The Appalachian Roots of Nashville, Tennessee 19:39

2M ago19:39

19:39

In the winter of 1779, a determined group of Appalachian settlers set out on a thousand-mile journey by river, led by Virginia surveyor John Donelson. Battling disease, starvation, ambushes, and the raw forces of nature, they pushed westward down the Holston River, into the Tennessee River, the Ohio and then up the Cumberland River, all through hos…

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Land, Power and a Little Fish: The Tellico Dam Story 14:26

2M ago14:26

14:26

Today we tell the story of the battle over the Tellico Dam, the last major project of the Tennessee Valley Authority. TVA's ambitious plans for the Tellico project included not only a dam and lake but also the development of a brand-new city to be called Timberlake. However, the project faced fierce resistance from landowners who were being forced …

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The First Tennesseans: William and Lydia Bean 13:44

3M ago13:44

13:44

Nearly twenty years before Tennessee was a state, William Bean built a cabin along the Watagua River and planted roots. In this episode, we tell the story of his journey from longhunter to settler, his friendship with Daniel Boone, and his wife Lydia’s dramatic rescue from execution by Cherokee Beloved Woman Nancy Ward. It’s the story of Tennessee’…

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The Story of Isaac Cline, Appalachia's Weather Man 14:08

3M ago14:08

14:08

This week, Steve and Rod bring you the remarkable story of Isaac Cline, a Tennessee-born son of Appalachia who rose to become one of America’s most respected meteorologists. From his humble beginnings in a two-room log cabin near the Great Smoky Mountains to his fateful role during the Galveston Hurricane of 1900, Cline’s life was marked by groundb…

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Standoff in Jefferson County: The Haunting Case of W. B. Johnson 16:20

3M ago16:20

16:20

In this episode of Stories of Appalachia, we tell the story of a shocking event in January 1927 in Jefferson County, Tennessee. That was when a prominent county businessman named W.B. Johnson turned from respected community member to notorious outlaw. This tale unfolds with a fateful meeting involving Johnson, two women, and a tragic dispute that e…

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Jellico's Darkest Day: The Explosion That Rocked Appalachia 17:53

3M ago17:53

17:53

In this episode, we tell the harrowing story of the Jellico explosion, a catastrophic event that shook the town of Jellico, Tennessee, on September 21, 1906. What began as a normal morning quickly turned into chaos when a shipment of 11 tons of dynamite detonated, leveling the downtown area and leaving the community in ruins. Join Steve Gilly and R…

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Kentucky's Packhorse Librarians 23:06

4M ago23:06

23:06

In this episode, we tell the inspiring story of the packhorse librarians, a group of determined women who brought literacy and hope to the remote hollers of Eastern Kentucky during the Great Depression. As families struggled to survive, these brave librarians on horses (and mules) navigated rugged terrain to deliver books and educational materials …

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Spring Break in Utah 27:19

4M ago27:19

27:19

Tonight JB gives you a lot of information about enjoying Utah during the busy Spring Break season in Utah. Be sure to listen before you start your vacation.By Undiscovered Utah

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The Strange Disappearance of Polly Feltner 10:35

4M ago10:35

10:35

In this episode, we tell the strange tale of Polly Feltner, a young woman from Hyden, Kentucky, who vanished in 1897 under mysterious circumstances. What began as a search for a missing person quickly escalated into charges of murder, a frenzy of suspicion and mob justice, targeting an innocent man. As tensions rose and a near-lynching unfolded, th…

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The Dunkards of Appalachia: A Story of Faith and Survival 16:11

4M ago16:11

16:11

In this episode, we journey back to the mid-1700s to uncover the story of the Schwartzenau Brethren, also known as the Dunkards, who established one of the earliest settlements in the New River Valley of Virginia. Join us as we tell the story of this fascinating religious community, their unique beliefs, and the challenges one family of Dunkards fa…

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Whiskey, Dynamite and Faith: An Appalachian Preacher's Fiery Battle 13:36

4M ago13:36

13:36

In this episode of the podcast, we tell the story of Reverend William Riley Rickman, a steadfast preacher who took on the liquor industry in Pocahontas, Virginia. Join Steve and Rod as they tell you about Rickman's fervent battle against alcohol in that Appalachian coal mining community. Rickman’s tireless efforts resulted in Pocahontas becoming a …

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The Battle of Kings Mountain 18:30

4M ago18:30

18:30

Today, we tell the remarkable story of the Overmountain men, Appalachian frontiersmen from the far western parts of North Carolina and Virginia. As tensions escalated in the South, these settlers took a stand against British forces at Kings Mountain, on the South Carolina/North Carolina border. Their bravery in that decisive battle was instrumental…

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Between a Rock and a Hard Spot 26:02

4M ago26:02

26:02

Tune in to this gripping episode of Undiscovered Utah, where JB unveils the unbelievable tale of adventure turned tragedy—and the extraordinary will to survive against all odds. Hear the remarkable story of Aron Ralston, a true testament to human resilience. Don't miss this jaw-dropping journey of survival!…

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Ballads from the Mountains: The Life and Legacy of Jean Ritchie 19:24

5M ago19:24

19:24

Today we tell the story of Jean Ritchie, the "Mother of Folk." Born in the small town of Viper, Kentucky, Jean captivated audiences worldwide, influencing legends like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash along the way. Join Steve and Rod as they tell the story of her remarkable life, from her roots in the mountains to her role in the folk revival of the mid-…

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Revenge on the Frontier: The Tragic Tale of Old Tassel and the Kirk Family Massacre 18:18

5M ago18:18

18:18

Old Tassel, a prominent figure among the Overhill Cherokee, was a staunch advocate for peace during a period of conflict between them and the settlers moving into East Tennessee. Despite his efforts to forge treaties and maintain peace and harmony between the two groups, the rise of tensions ultimately led to tragedy for both. The killing of the Ki…

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Ale 8 One, Appalachia's Homegrown Soda Legacy 15:16

5M ago15:16

15:16

Discover the fascinating story of Kentucky's unique soft drink, "Ale 8 One," in this episode of Stories of Appalachia. Join Steve and Rod as they tell the history of this Appalachian soda, which has been a staple in Eastern Kentucky since 1926. From its origins in northern European ginger recipes to its modern-day variations like Cherry Ale-8 and A…

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Feud and Fury: The Dark Legacy of Bad Tom Smith 27:30

5M ago27:30

27:30

By request of one of our listeners, this week we tell the story of Bad Tom Smith, a notorious figure at the very heart of the French-Eversole feud in Kentucky. As he grew up an orphan, he was regularly in trouble, until he crossed paths with two powerful rivals, Joseph C. Eversole and B. F. French, an encounter that would shape his life. Be sure to…

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Chief Nimrod Jarrett Smith: How One Cherokee Leader Changed History 13:37

6M ago13:37

13:37

Nimrod Jarrett Smith, born in 1832 near Murphy, North Carolina, was a member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee who played a crucial role in shaping the tribe’s future. His life was marked by his dedication to his people during a time of immense change and challenge. As principal chief of the Eastern Band, he guided them to self-government on West…

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Philippi, West Virginia- The First Land Battle of the Civil War 13:54

6M ago13:54

13:54

At the beginning of the Civil War, the small Appalachian town of Philippi, Virginia, now West Virginia, became the site of the first organized land action of the conflict as the Union made a move into Confederate territory. Despite its strategic importance, the battle is sometimes humorously referred to as the "Philippi Races" due to the swift retr…

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Bloody Harlan: W. B. Jones and the Battle of Evarts 16:59

6M ago16:59

16:59

In the late 1920s and early 30s, the coal fields of Harlan County, Kentucky, became the backdrop for one of the darkest chapters in labor history. Known as Bloody Harlan, this tumultuous time saw miners fighting for justice and fair treatment during a time of economic despair and corporate greed. At the heart of this struggle was William B. Jones, …

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The Spruce Pine New Years Eve Blast 11:23

6M ago11:23

11:23

On New Year's Eve 1959, the quiet town of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, became the stage for a teenage prank that would put the town in newspapers all around the country. Join us as we tell the story of two local teenagers armed with dynamite bought at the town’s hardware store who decided to ring in the new year with a bang—literally. Be sure to su…

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The Frontier Trailblazer: Elisha Wallen, Longhunter 14:25

7M ago14:25

14:25

Elisha Wallen was more than just a man of the frontier—he was a trailblazer who left an mark on the region's history. Today we tell the story of this legendary long hunter, a man who traveled alongside Daniel Boone through Southwest Virginia and into Eastern Kentucky. From his beginnings in Prince George County, Maryland, to his adventures across t…

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The 1902 Quarter House Battle 18:25

7M ago18:25

18:25

Nestled in Mingo Hollow, six miles west of Middlesboro, Kentucky, the Quarter House was no ordinary saloon. Its unique position on the Tennessee state line allowed patrons to evade the law by simply stepping across a painted line on the floor. Built like a fortress with heavy railroad timbers and a log stockade, it became a notorious hotspot for ga…

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The Wild West in Utah 14:27

7M ago14:27

14:27

In this episode JB, and special guest Rook, dive deep into Utah’s Wild West, covering the mining boom, outlaws, law enforcement, Native American relations, and the influence of the railroad, bringing the rugged past of the Utah frontier to life for listeners.By Undiscovered Utah

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The Night of Endless Rain: The Flash Flood of 1924 11:39

7M ago11:39

11:39

On the night of June 13, 1924, what appeared to be a summer thunderstorm in Carter County, Tennessee, transformed into one of the most devastating flash floods in the state's history. Join us as we tell the harrowing story of this natural disaster. Be sure to subscribe to the Stories podcast. You’ll find us wherever you get your favorite podcasts o…

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Sacred Actions 26:13

7M ago26:13

26:13

Sacred Actions is a way of living! It is an essential practice to bring into your daily life. Think of it as a reminder on how to act and be grateful for being on planet earth. Make a list of the things you are grateful for, or simply think about what you like to change in yourself or in your life? Write your goals down. The end of the year brings …

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The Deadliest Show on Earth: The Appalachian Wild West Show Shootout of 1905 11:39

7M ago11:39

11:39

In the summer of 1905, the Wild West came alive in the heart of Appalachia, complete with a saloon, a shootout, and a dramatic train attack. Join us as we tell the wild tale of Texas Bill's Wild West Show, which turned a simple sightseeing trip by their performers into a deadly encounter on the train out of Richwood, West Virginia. This was the kin…

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Victoria Grover: One wrong step 12:52

7M ago12:52

12:52

In this episode of Undiscovered Utah, JB takes listeners through the emotional and physical journey of Victoria Grover’s experience in Southern Utah near the town of Escalante, illustrating her struggle to survive and the bravery of those who saved her.By Undiscovered Utah

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The Himlerville Experiment: Appalachia's Only Miner-Owned Coal Town 12:09

8M ago12:09

12:09

There was once a coal company in Appalachia that was owned not by wealthy investors but by its employees, in a cooperative enterprise. And the houses in the company’s coal camp were owned by the miners as well, most of whom were Hungarian immigrants on the Kentucky side of Tug Fork. Join Steve and Rod as they tell the fascinating history of Himlerv…

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Appalachia's Ginseng King 16:44

8M ago16:44

16:44

Ginseng is a plant with a rich history and high demand in Asia, which brought buyers to Appalachia, home to an American version of this much desired root. This week, Rod and Steve tell the story of a man who made his fortune gathering, processing and selling ginseng in the mountains of North Carolina 150 years ago. Don't miss this episode of Storie…

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Ski Utah 16:09

8M ago16:09

16:09

JB discusses the "Greatest Snow on Earth". Skiing, snow boarding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and tubing adventures all across the state of Utah. If you're a fan of Utah and winter sports, this is the episode for you.By Undiscovered Utah

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The Legend of John Henry, The Steel Drivin' Man 12:08

8M ago12:08

12:08

In this episode, we tell the fascinating tale of John Henry, the legendary steel-driving man of Appalachia. Join Steve and Rod as they explore the story of this American folk hero, a man of strength and determination who is said to have stood against the power of machines during the industrial revolution. From the Big Bend Tunnel in West Virginia t…

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Pop Kramer: The Appalachian Daredevil on Two Wheels 17:09

8M ago17:09

17:09

Harry "Pop" Kramer, was a vaudeville trick cyclist whose story is filled with circus flair, daring feats, and personal tragedy. Born in 1875 in Alexandria, Virginia, Harry's journey from a disciplined farm life to the dazzling world of vaudeville is nothing short of remarkable. Today we tell the story of Pop Kramer, the Appalachian daredevil on two…

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Special Halloween Edition 19:10

8M ago19:10

19:10

Tonight, JB shares stories about Utah that are on the spooky side. They are all true. Are you brave enough to listen?By Undiscovered Utah

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When the Mountains Drowned: The Great Flood of 1916 14:39

8M ago14:39

14:39

In this episode, we revisit the catastrophic summer of 1916, when two hurricanes unleashed unprecedented destruction on the mountains of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, an event with eerie similarities to the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Rod and Steve also tell you of the connection between this event and the tale of…

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Nutty Putty Cave 13:41

8M ago13:41

13:41

In this episode of Undiscovered Utah, JB shares the story of Nutty Putty Cave. ** Listener Discretion Advised **By Undiscovered Utah

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The Moonshine Roots of NASCAR 27:28

9M ago27:28

27:28

This week we explore the fascinating connection between moonshining and NASCAR racing, a tale that combines the rugged spirit of Appalachia with the high-speed world of motorsports. Discover how the need to outrun the law transformed moonshiners into legendary drivers, setting the stage for a sport that captivates millions across the country today,…

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The Story of Martha Hughes Cannon 12:45

9M ago12:45

12:45

In tonight's episode, JB tells the fascinating story of Martha Hughes Cannon. She was a trailblazer in education, politics and had a huge influence in Utah when Utah was just barely a new state in the United States of America.By Undiscovered Utah