Explore every episode of the podcast Appalachian Treasures and Dreams

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with Amanda Davis, owner of The Dog Wizard serving Russell, Ashland, and the surrounding Tri-State area. Amanda brings nearly two decades of professional dog training experience and a lifelong passion for helping dogs and their owners build stronger, more balanced relationships. Through The Dog Wizard’s proven training methods, she and her team are transforming everything from basic obedience to more complex behavioral challenges like anxiety, aggression, and off-leash control.

We dive into:

• What makes The Dog Wizard’s training approach different
• The most common behavior issues dog owners face (and how to fix them)
• The importance of communication and consistency with your dog
• Real-life success stories from right here in our community
• Advice for anyone thinking about training their dog

Whether you're a lifelong dog owner or just brought home a new puppy, this episode is packed with practical insights, expert advice, and a behind-the-scenes look at a business that’s making a real impact across Eastern Kentucky. 🐾 If you’ve ever wondered how to take your dog from frustrating to fantastic—this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with BJ LeHosit to talk about the energy, growth, and community impact of the Ashland Tennis Center.  From introducing new players to the game of tennis to embracing the explosive rise of pickleball, the center is creating opportunities for people of all ages to get active, connect, and be part of something bigger.  We dive into the differences between tennis and pickleball, how beginners can get started, and why both sports are becoming such a big part of the local community. BJ also shares stories of growth, challenges, and what the future holds for the Ashland Tennis Center.  Whether you’re a lifelong player or just curious about picking up a racket or paddle this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Episode 54

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures & Dreams, we sit down with the executive leadership team from Ramey-Estep / Re-group, a nonprofit organization that has been serving Kentucky communities for more than 80 years.

Founded in 1944, Ramey-Estep has evolved alongside the needs of the region — growing from its early roots in child and family care into a comprehensive provider of behavioral health, recovery, and integrated community services. Today, through Re-group, the organization delivers outpatient therapy, substance-use treatment, residential recovery programs, and whole-person care to individuals and families across the Commonwealth.

The executive team shares the story behind that evolution, what it means to be designated a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, and how their work is expanding access to mental health and recovery services — especially in rural and underserved Appalachian communities. We also talk leadership, workforce challenges, and what the future holds for behavioral health care in our region.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that healing is possible when communities invest in people, relationships, and hope.

🌄 Appalachian Treasures and Dreams: Discovering Travel Insights with Kimberly Greene!** ✈️Join hosts *Ryan and Christie* in this captivating episode of *Appalachian Treasures and Dreams* as they interview travel expert **Kimberly Greene**! Dive into a world of adventure as Kimberly shares her invaluable travel tips, favorite destinations, and the magic of exploring the world's hidden gems.In this inspiring conversation, learn how to make the most of your travels, uncover treasures, and create unforgettable memories.✨ *Tune in for:*

• Expert travel insights from Kimberly Greene
• Recommendations for must-visit spots in the US and beyond.
• Tips for planning your dream getaway
• Stories that capture the heart and soul of travel throughout the world!

Don’t miss this enriching episode filled with inspiration and practical advice. Hit subscribe and let Greene Travel Getaways guide you on your next adventure!

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures & Dreams, we welcome back Marshall Tyson, CEO of United Way of Northeast Kentucky, along with Stephan Harris, Board Vice Chair, and Erika Berry, Resource Development Coordinator. Together, they share exciting updates on UWNEK’s ongoing work in our region—highlighting the Bridge Builders program, partnerships that are making a difference, and the powerful impact of community support. We also dive into what’s been accomplished since Marshall’s last visit and get a preview of what’s ahead for United Way NEKY.

Tune in to hear how UWNEK continues to strengthen our community and how you can get involved in building a brighter future right here at home.

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures & Dreams, we welcome Michelle Dixon Gerlach, the heart and soul behind Willow Valley Farmhouse. Michelle is a certified herbalist, gardener, and storyteller who shares her passion for family farm life, herbal remedies, and farm-fresh recipes with a growing online community.

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with Celeste Kouns, the new director of Visit Ashland, to talk about her vision, what’s ahead for Ashland tourism, and how she plans to build on the city’s momentum. From events and local partnerships to fresh ideas for promoting the region, Celeste brings enthusiasm and insight to her new role. Plus, Christie shares some exciting personal news, and Ryan talks about his recent trip to Washington, D.C. — and what it means for our Appalachian story. Don’t miss this jam-packed episode full of updates, inspiration, and community pride!

In our 50th episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we’re honored to sit down with Shawn Moore, Principal of the Russell Area Technology Center (RATC) in Russell, Kentucky. With a rich background in education, international research, and public service, Shawn brings a global perspective to the local classroom—shaping futures through career and technical education.

We dive into the innovative programs at RATC—from welding and nursing to information technology and marketing—and explore how the center is preparing students for both college and the 21st-century workforce. Shawn shares insights into how partnerships with local industries are helping students earn credentials and job opportunities before graduation.

Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply passionate about the future of our region, this milestone episode offers a powerful glimpse into how technical education is transforming lives right here in eastern Kentucky.

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with Debbie Cosper, Director of the Boyd County Public Library, and Ben Nunley, Public Services Manager, to explore the library’s rich history, its vital role in the community, and the exciting innovations shaping its future. From genealogy resources and homebound services to digital expansion and community outreach, discover how this library continues to be a cornerstone of learning and connection in Eastern Kentucky. We also dive into Debbie and Ben’s personal journeys in public service and the passion that drives their work.

In this vibrant episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with the inspiring Melanie Adkins, founder of Jack and the Bean Coffee Company in Kenova, WV. Melanie shares her journey from being a beloved morning news anchor at WSAZ to creating a coffee shop that not only serves delicious brews but also empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Discover how Jack and the Bean is "serving opportunity with every cup" and making a heartfelt impact in the community. Don't miss this blend of warmth and inspiration! ​

#AppalachianTreasuresAndDreams #JackAndTheBean #MelanieAdkins #Inspiration #Community #Podcast #CoffeeWithACause

Join us in this compelling episode of the Appalachian Treasures and Dreams podcast as we sit down with Tim England, Director of the Ashland-Boyd County-Catlettsburg Emergency Management. Discover the intricate world of emergency management, from strategic planning to real-life responses, and learn about the pivotal events that have shaped the resilience of Boyd County, Kentucky. Tim shares firsthand experiences and sheds light on the coordinated efforts that keep our communities safe in times of crisis. Whether it's natural disasters or unforeseen emergencies, this episode offers a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of safeguarding our region.

 In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with Marshall Tyson, CEO of United Way of Northeast Kentucky, to discuss their upcoming food drive and a special guest who will be making an appearance. If you're a football fan, this is one event you won’t want to miss!

We also take some time to dive into the local real estate market, sharing valuable insights for anyone buying, selling, or currently owning a home. Don’t miss this episode packed with useful information and community highlights!

In this episode of Appalachian Treasures and Dreams, we sit down with Jim Wilcox of Fearless Defense, a seasoned instructor certified to teach concealed carry classes in Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia. Jim shares his expertise on church security, offering vital insights for church security teams to safeguard their congregations. We also dive into personal safety strategies for realtors, a profession where situational awareness can be a lifesaver. Whether you're part of a church security team or a realtor looking to enhance your safety practices, this episode is packed with essential advice and practical tips.

In this episode, we welcome back two familiar faces to Appalachian Treasures and Dreams: Marshall Tyson, CEO of United Way of Northeast Kentucky, and Mike Maynard, Director of Hillcrest Bruce Mission. Marshall provides an update on the United Way's impactful work since his last visit, including the innovative Bridge Building Program. We delve deep into the exciting new partnership between the United Way and Hillcrest Bruce Mission, "United in Mission," exploring how this collaboration will create a stronger, more united Appalachian community. Join us as we discover how these dedicated leaders are making a difference in the lives of those in need.

On this episode, we continue our conversation with Mike Maynard, Executive Director of Hillcrest-Bruce Mission.  We hope you enjoyed the first part and continue to enjoy the remainder of your conversation. 

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sat down with Mike Maynard, Executive Director of The Hillcrest-Bruce Mission.  This is one of many different positions Mike has in the community.  This is something everyone needs to hear.  Mike and The Mission is one of the community's great assets and resources for helping people break the cycle of generation poverty.  This was a long conversation, so this episode is Part 1 of 2.  So still come back next week and hear the conclusion.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down with Rachel Swindler, Coordinator of Bereavement Services for Community Hospice.  We talked about what bereavement services Community Hospice offers and how to access them.   We also talk about grief and loosing a loved one and how way a Bereavement Counselor can help.  So, take some time and listen.  We hope you enjoy it.

Christie and Ryan sat down this episode with Scott Martin, President & CEO, and Scott Rigsby, Chairman of the Board, of the Northeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce (formerly The Ashland Alliance).  We discussed all the changes that happened at the Chamber from the new leadership to the new logo and slogan.  So, take some time to listen and learn about an old friend with a new look.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down with local entrepreneur Diamond Lewis, owner of many local businesses like Ashland Outlet, Sideburns, & Oasis Point.  We discuss               Diamond's start, his ups and downs, and how he got to where he is today.  Take some time to listen and learn what has made him successful and hopefully you'll get something out of               it to inspire your entrepreneur spirit.

This episode we have a conversation with Norma Meek and talk about her career in Education and all her volunteer week she does locally to help better our community.  So, take a moment and click the play button and enjoy learning about a wonderful local lady. 

On this episode we sit down with our local renaissance man, Jeremy Holbrook. A man who wears many hats, father, husband, Executive Director of The Neighborhood in            Ashland, Boyd County Commissioner and archery coach. This was a very inspirational and emotional conversation that you won't want to miss, so take some time to listen            and because we know you will enjoy it.

On this episode, we sit down again with our local Executive Director, Amber Whitley and Jeff Hornyak, Regional Philanthropy Officer from the American Red Cross.  The Red Cross needs all our help locally, especially volunteers.  Amber & Jeff talk about not only how to volunteer, but other ways you can help the Red Cross.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down and talk with former Ashland Mayor and Mayoral candidate Chuck Charles.  We talk about Chuck's past exploits from working in law enforcement in Washington DC to his time as Mayor of Ashland.  We also talk with him about his current run for mayor and what his goals are for the city.  So, take some time and listen in and get the information you need to make an informed decision on Election Day.

On this episode, we sit down with Hunter Boyd, Boyd County's Economic Development Director, and Andrew Steele, Executive Director of Boyd County Tourism and Convention Bureau.  We talk about the past couple years and how Boyd County has gotten to where they are and what is to come in the Future. Especially the upcoming Rock The Country Music Festival, featuring Kid Rock and Jason Aldean.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down city commissioner Josh Blanton and continue our conversations about the changes taking place in Ashland and what the future                   holds both the city and Josh.  Please take some time and listen in.  We think you'll enjoy what you hear. 

On this episode Christie & Ryan site down with Mike Graese, City Manager of Ashland; Steve Cole, City Engineer of Ashland; and Erica Bonner, Ashland's Public Information Officer.   We had a lot of different topics we wanted to get into, but all our conversation was about the renovations taking place on Winchester Avenue and the rest of the downtown area.  This episode is packed with a lot of valuable information, but we will warn you now, it a little length so set aside some time or listen to it in segments.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down with a few friends they graduated with from the high school class.  They talk about what it was like growing up in the 80’s and how it compares to kids today.  Stop in and listen because this one proves to be a lot of fun and I would say a lot of you will get a little out of this

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down with Sen. Robin Webb to talk about her personal, professional, and political life.  We get some of the current local events she is involved in and some of what she has been involved in to support our local community.  So, take some time and listen in.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down to speak with Rod Hieneman from Community Hospice in Ashland, KY.  Rod is the Chief Executive Officer of Community Hospice and talks about their services and his experiences working in hospice care.  It is a very interesting conversation and one everyone should take some time to listen to.  Rod and his staff do a wonderful and difficult job and deserves the recognition for it.  So take some time to listen in.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan side down and talk with Amber Whitley, Executive Director, American Red Cross Tri-State Chapter and Shawn Boggs, Tri-State Chapter Board Member.  We get into everything American Red Cross from blood drives to volunteer opportunity.  Stop in a spend an hour of your week and learn more about the American Red Cross Tri-State Chapter.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan get the microphones turned around on them.  We got a chance to sit down with Dr. Jodelle Yount on her podcast/YouTube channel broadcast and be interviewed by her.  We talk about our podcast what we have going on and a lot of things that our part of our lives.  We hope you enjoy it and come back next week for another exciting episode.

This podcast Christie & Ryan sit down with Amy Compston with Amy for Africa.  She talks about his missionary projects in Africa and her personal story and experiences with their school.  So take some time and listen in and maybe get inspired to help out with their mission.  THIS IS A MUST LISTEN.

On this episode, Christie and Ryan sit down with Elizabeth Monarch, President of the Kentucky Association of Realtors and Broker/Owner of The Monarch Group and also, Christie’s boss.  We talk about what is going on in the state of KY in the real estate industry.  We get into the state of the market, legislative issues, and some other issues in the real estate field.  This is not a long interview and very interesting is you are looking to buy or sell a home or maybe if you are just a homeowner.  So stop in and listen and if you would like some more information, please let us know.

Christie and I are back and this time we have a good one for you.  If you are a big music, theater, and/or comedy this one is for you.  Holly Canfield from the Paramount Arts Center came by and sit down with us to talk about what is going on and to come at the Paramount.  She gets into some of the recent events and talks about what is coming in the first.  So take some time to listen and visit the Paramount’s website to learn how you can get tickets for upcoming events and how to become a PAC Pass member.

We are back from out summer break and this week we sit down with Ellen Keaton, Executive Director of the Boyd County Fair.  Ellen gives us all the information for this year’s Boyd County Fair.  So take some time to listen in and get all the information you need for you trip to the fair.

This week Christie & Ryan sit down with Scott Martin, Director of Operations for the Ashland Alliance.  We get into some what the Alliance is into currently and we also have an update with the progress they are making with the new Sandy’s Gaming & Racing building.  Scott, Christie, and myself received and invitation to tour the facility so we can update everyone on what is happening.  We hope you joy the episode.

On this episode, Christie & Ryan sit down with Scott Campbell, Executive Director of the Ashland Area YMCA.  Scott talks about what brought him to the “Y” and all the updates and changes that are taking place.  Stop in and listen to this one and get more information about one of the jewels of Ashland.

This week, Christie and Ryan, sit down with Greg Jackson and David Latherow to talk about the Phase 2 renovations coming to Putnam Stadium in Ashland.  They get into the funding that has happened and is still needed and what everyone should expect to see next year when they attend a game in the stadium.  Take some time and listen in and we think you will like what you hear.

Here is the latest on what is happening with Revolutionary Racing Kentucky.  Stop in an get an update on the progress they are marking and what is going to be taking place over the next few months.  Christie & Ryan sit down with Shelby & TJ Morrison to bring you the information you have been wondering about.  It was a lot of fun taking with them and we think you will enjoy it also.   

On this episode, Christie & Ryan sit down with Ruby Deerfield & Greg Jackson, a graduate of Ashland Blazer High School and West Point. After leaving the Army, he spent the rest of his career with Ashland Oil/Marathon Petroleum. We discuss all the event and free concerts happening at this year’s Summer Motion 2023 taking place on the riverfront in Ashland.  Take a half hour and listen what will be going and when.  Also, get a little insight into what it takes to make this event happen and how you could help.  We also got a little bonus insight into another project going on locally, but if you want to find out more about that you’ll have to listen.

This week Christie & Ryan sit down with Jamie Garner & Laura Spitler, two parents who have home schooled their children for years.  We talked about their experiences with home schooling and give some advice to help someone who is considering home schooling themselves.

On this episode, Christie & Ryan sit down with Ashley Marcum, a local realtor and real estate investor.  Ashley has started building a successful business buying, renovating, and renting local home.  Stop in and hear how she does it and maybe learn how you maybe able to do the same thing.

In this week’s episode, Christie and Ryan talk with Eric Boos, principal of Holy Family Schools.  Eric talks about the history of Holy Family and what the private Christian school has to offer.  Download the episode and learn more about the Irish. 

Robert Pleasant, the Director of Student Services, stopped in today to talk about some exciting things happening at Ohio University Southern and events they have coming up.  Drop in and listen to learn more about a wonderful institution we have here in our Appalachian area!

Join us for today's special episode.  We dedicated this entire episode to Revitalize Russell.  Listen to the POWERHOUSE women who volunteer and devote a lot of time and energy into improving the city they love!

On this Episode, in the Real Estate segment, we sit down with Judy Robinson from Ross Real Estate Services and Allison Goble from Re/Max Realty Connection to discuss what is going on in the local real estate market.  Along with Christie, they will give you some advice and options from different levels of real estate experience.  And in the Community segment, we sit down with Marshall Tyson, the new CEO of United Way of Northeast Kentucky to see how he is enjoying his new job and what they have going on.

On this episode, in the Real Estate segment, we talk more about Christie’s New Adventure.  Now we talk more about the financing of a renovation or flip.  And in the Community segment, we sit down with Ann Perkins, Executive Director of Safe Harbor of NE KY, Inc. and Brooke Seasor the Director of Resource Development at Ashland Community and Technical College.  We get into what both ladies are doing for the their respective organizations and what they have coming up.

This week, in the Real Estate segment, we talk about downpayment requirements for mortgage and places the money can come from.  And in the Community segment, we speak with Bradley Burck with Cabell Huntington Hospital & St. Mary’s Medical Center Foundations.  He’ll let us know what they have going on and events coming up.

This week, in our Real Estate segment, Christie and Ryan talk more about Christie’s New Adventure with a couple of SPECIAL guests and in the Community Segment we dive into a delicious food conversation with Sam & Joyce Peters from Patter Fam Sauces and cooking school.

On today’s episode, in the Real Estate Segment, Christie & Ryan talk with Mark Hanni from J. Ryan Insurance Group about insuring you home.  And in our Community segment, we talk with Dr. Todd Brand about what is going on lately at Ashland Community & Technical College.