About the Project

The Appalachian Way is a project born from a passion for fostering resilient leadership rooted in heritage. The hope for the project is to embark on a deep exploration of leadership in rural Appalachia. At the heart of the project are interviews with various leaders from the region to uncover their unique leadership journeys and the ways in which their Appalachian culture has shaped their leadership style. 

Long-Term Project Goals

The long-term goal for The Appalachian Way is to create a comprehensive resource on leadership in rural Appalachia that is accessible to a wide audience. Once interviews are complete, I will analyze and use the insights I learn to create a series of essays and media posts sharing successful Appalachian leaders' stories and strategies. 

Ultimately, I aim to compile these insights into a book that offers practical tips and inspiration for leaders at any point in their leadership journey. By sharing the stories and insights unlocked during the interviews, I believe we can help individuals reach their full potential as leaders and create a more vibrant and successful Appalachia. 

In the future, I plan to build a more comprehensive and interactive site to serve as a hub for the community of leaders we build throughout this project. Check back often to see the progress!

Who can participate?

The Appalachian Way is open to individuals who share a deep connection to the Appalachian region. Leaders who were born in Appalachia or have lived in Appalachia for a considerable amount of time should consider interviewing. Leadership takes various forms - from community builders and educators to entrepreneurs and advocates.  I believe all types of leaders have insights and experiences that can contribute to our understanding of leadership in rural Appalachia. Through our stories, we can uncover the rich heritage and cultural traditions that shape leadership in this unique context.