episode 132
All About Appalachia
Lauren of Must Love Herbs
Introduction
So happy to welcome the utterly delightful Lauren of Must Love Herbs to the podcast today. Lauren is going to speak to an idea that I don’t broach quite enough in this podcast, which is the fact that the US itself has many distinct subcultures: Appalachia (or - properly said, Appa - LATCH- a) is one of those subcultures with its own geography, heritage, music, accents, and foodways. Lauren is quickly amassing a huge following on Instagram that love her joyful, bright, and sundrenched photos and videos share her ancestor’s knowledge of gardening and herbalism. She also shares the most amazing adorable cakes decorated with the most intricate, skillful, adorable mushrooms - breads covered with edible florals. Lauren’s a true ambassador of Appalachia, coming from generations of Appalacians that have lived on the land for over 200 years.
If you, like me, only carry only a vague idea of what comprises the Appalachian subculture, Lauren will give us all much deeper appreciation of this resilient, strong people through her charming stories and thoughtful discussion.
It’s a cliche an apt one when it comes to Lauren - she truly is a ray of sunshine and I’m so happy to introduce her to you right now!
Highlights
- Who is an Appalachian?
- Difference in Appalachian foodways
- Lauren's father - a musician from Appalachia who *doesn't* like bluegrass
- What's growing in her garden (Market More cucumbers, 500lb cucumbers))
- Medicinal herbs for what ails her 😉
- "Big Daddy" - Lauren's grandfather and garden mentor
- Pros and cons of growing up and staying near family
- "That's a big part of Appalachia - they don't let you struggle alone"
- "It's not my knowledge that I'm sharing, it's my ancestor's knowledge"
- Melvana - a woman who bought the family land in 1900
- A bear that tried to eat her apple pie!
- Why herbalism is a private and personal thing to Lauren
- "Here you anxious people, have some herbs!"
- What's a holler?
- Gender norms for Appalachian women and men
- Is there an Appalachian aesthetic?
- Can you join Appalachia - or can you only leave?
Listen Now
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This Episode's Storied Recipe
Recipe Shared by Lauren of Must Love Herbs
Kilt Lettuce
Fresh varieties of lettuce are topped with a delicious dressing of bacon fat and vinegar - watch out for the popping and snapping when the hot grease "kills" the moisture filled lettuce!
How To Contact Lauren
Website: Mustloveherbs.com
Instagram: @mustloveherbs
Facebook: Must Love Herbs
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