Welcome to another episode of Where the Dogwood Blooms, where we delve into the stories that knit the fabric of our communities together. Today, we're privileged to have Amanda Woolard with us, diving deep into her experience aiding Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Who is Amanda Woolard?

• Her Roots: Amanda hails from Rocky Mount in Eastern North Carolina, where her roots run deep.
• Her Passion: With a degree from NC State University, Amanda has devoted her career to supporting youth through trauma and mental health challenges.
• Her Journey: Though Raleigh, NC, is where she currently resides, her love for Western North Carolina was cultivated during her five-year stint in the picturesque town of Hendersonville.

Amanda's Professional Impact:

• Current Role: She now works with Wake Monarch Academy, a beacon of hope and recovery for students battling substance use disorders.

Beyond Work:

• Amanda treasures her downtime with loved ones, including her furry friend Rocky, revels in the thrill of NC State sports, and finds solace in art and song.

Episode Highlights:

Immediate Response:

• How Amanda quickly organized and executed her relief efforts.
• The logistics of loading supplies and reaching affected areas.

On-the-Ground Experience:

• Amanda's firsthand accounts of the conditions in WNC after the hurricane.
• Emotional and touching stories from her encounters with residents.

Impact and Reflections:

• Discussion on what struck Amanda the most during her supply runs.

• Community resilience and the spirit of togetherness in disaster situations.

Future Plans:

• Amanda's thoughts on continuing her efforts as WNC rebuilds.

• Potential for ongoing support and how listeners can get involved.

Follow Amanda Woolard:

• X (formerly Twitter)

Sponsors:

• Elicit Sports Authority
• NC/TN High Country WX
• Knights of Pythias Cumberland Lodge No. 5

Support Where the Dogwood Blooms: If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us via:

• Venmo
• Cash App

Connect with Where the Dogwood Blooms:

• Website
• Instagram
• X
• TikTok

Contact:

• cassie@wherethedogwoodblooms.com

Tags: #NorthCarolina #Podcast #HurricaneHelene #WNC #Appalachia

BJ Barham, the iconic voice of American Aquarium, joins us on Where the Dogwood Blooms. A native of North Carolina, BJ's music has transcended geographical boundaries, resonating with fans across the nation and earning acclaim from local to legendary publications like Indy Week and Rolling Stone.

Episode Highlights:

• Musical Beginnings: Discover how BJ found his passion for music and what inspired him to pick up a guitar.
• Song Meanings: Dive into the stories and emotions behind some of American Aquarium's most beloved tracks.
• Overcoming Addiction: Explore BJ's personal battle and triumphant recovery from addiction.
• Personal Insights: Get a glimpse into BJ's worldview, where he shares that even celebrities hold onto their right to an opinion.

Follow American Aquarium:

• Website
• X (formerly Twitter)
• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok

Sponsors:

• Elicit Sports Authority
• NC/TN High Country WX
• Knights of Pythias Cumberland Lodge No. 5

Support Where the Dogwood Blooms: If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us via:

• Venmo
• Cash App

Connect with Where the Dogwood Blooms:

• Website
• Instagram
• X
• TikTok

Contact:

• cassie@wherethedogwoodblooms.com

Tags: #NorthCarolina #Podcast #AmericanAquarium #BJBarham #NCMusic