Episodes

  • #8 It Ain't All Doom and Gloom, but it's a lot
    Jul 21 2025

    Dash and Beck explore a variety of themes ranging from personal experiences with food and small-town life to the challenges of academia and mental health. They share stories of grief, loss, and the impact of religion on their lives, while also reflecting on queer identity and community. The discussion touches on parenting choices, the role of libraries, and the influence of controversial figures in pop culture. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of personal growth, community engagement, and the complexities of navigating life as queer individuals.

    Takeaways

    Food rituals play a significant role in personal memories.

    Life in small towns comes with unique challenges and quirks.

    Academia can be a struggle, especially with grading and integrity issues.

    First-generation students often face additional hurdles in education.

    Mental health is crucial for personal growth and well-being.

    Grief and loss are complex experiences that shape our identities.

    Religious trauma can have lasting effects on individuals.

    Cultural reflections on religion reveal diverse experiences.

    Food and family traditions are intertwined with identity.

    Art and activism often intersect in meaningful ways.

    tags:


    food, academia, mental health, grief, religion, queer identity, parenting, literature, community, pop culture


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    53 mins
  • #7 They call me Boytitties
    Jul 14 2025

    Dash and Beck explore various themes including social dynamics, family memories, the experience of Midwestern goodbyes, the lifespan of pets, near-death experiences, and the impact of generational trauma. They share personal anecdotes about their pets, discuss the significance of truth or dare games in their youth, and reflect on how their backgrounds have shaped their perspectives. The conversation highlights the complexities of human-animal relationships and the emotional connections that arise from shared experiences. In this engaging conversation, Dash and Beck explore the complexities of queer identity, family dynamics, and cultural divergence. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences growing up, navigating relationships with their families, and the impact of media representation on their identities. The discussion delves into the role of humor in queer culture and activism, reflecting on historical moments that shaped the community. They also touch on the significance of food and Appalachian culture, particularly the nostalgic tradition of making snow cream. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of empathy and the absurdity of societal norms, creating a rich tapestry of insights and reflections.

    Takeaways

    People are actually listening to... this.

    The Midwestern goodbye can be confusing.

    Pets often have shorter lifespans than we expect.

    Near-death experiences can shape our fears.

    Truth or dare reveals social dynamics among friends.

    Generational trauma impacts life expectancy.

    Language evolves as we grow and change.

    Unconditional love from pets is profound.

    Family memories shape our identities.

    Social dynamics influence our interactions. Navigating queer identity often leads to a divergence from family expectations.

    Cultural differences can create a sense of isolation within families.

    Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping queer identities.

    Humor is a vital aspect of queer culture and resistance.

    Historical activism has shaped the current landscape of queer rights.

    Empathy has diminished in contemporary societal interactions.

    Food traditions, like snow cream, connect us to our roots.

    Personal growth often involves reconciling past experiences with present identities.

    The absurdity of societal norms can be a source of humor and strength.

    Queer culture thrives on creativity and resilience.

    tags:

    Midwestern goodbye, pets, near-death experiences, truth or dare, generational trauma, social dynamics, family memories, life experiences, language evolution, unconditional love, queer identity, family dynamics, cultural divergence, media representation, queer humor, activism, empathy, Appalachian culture, snow cream, personal growth


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    58 mins
  • #6 I hope you got air conditioning
    Jul 7 2025

    Dash and Beck discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal experiences with pets during Independence Day celebrations to the complexities of liberalism and racism in America. They share personal anecdotes about their educational journeys, the importance of community spaces, and the beauty of summer memories, including the magic of lightning bugs. The conversation also touches on the role of allies in anti-racism efforts and the need for support in communities facing crises.

    Donate to support Appalachia flood relief:

    https://www.appalachianky.org/flood/

    https://appvoices.org/helene-relief/

    https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/kentucky-and-appalachia-flood-relief-fund/

    https://www.arh.org/floods

    https://mtnways.org/

    Takeaways

    Pets react differently to fireworks than humans do.

    Local events can be a mix of fun and frustration.

    Social gatherings often reflect community dynamics.

    Online interactions can lead to misunderstandings.

    Liberalism can be complex and often misinterpreted.

    Racism is a pervasive issue that requires active engagement.

    White privilege complicates discussions about class and race.

    Allies play a crucial role in anti-racism efforts.

    Community support is vital during crises and disasters.

    Education shapes our identities and experiences.

    Chapters

    00:00 Fireworks and Furry Friends: Celebrating the Fourth

    04:28 Street Parties and Small Town Shenanigans

    08:17 Online Drama: Navigating Social Media Discourse

    11:55 The Complexities of Liberalism and Class

    15:51 Supporting Communities: Action Beyond Words

    19:26 Navigating Identity: Coming Out and Family Dynamics

    21:58 Education: From Struggles to Success in Grad School

    22:44 The Impact of School Experiences on Identity

    27:03 Creating Community: The Need for Non-Bar Spaces

    31:07 The Role of Creativity in Education

    35:57 Career Aspirations and Friendships

    42:41 Summer Adventures and Fond Memories

    51:03 New Chapter

    tags:


    Independence Day, pets, community events, online drama, liberalism, racism, white privilege, anti-racism, education, personal growth, summer memories, lightning bugs

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    51 mins
  • #5 Politics and The Hereafter
    Jun 30 2025

    Dash and Beck explore a range of topics from personal academic challenges and the impact of loss to reflections on Pride Month and cultural identities. They share stories about family dynamics, the influence of weather on life, and delve into the complexities of the prison industrial complex. The discussion also touches on ghost stories and personal experiences with loss, culminating in a historical overview of the Hatfield-McCoy feud and its implications for Appalachian identity.

    Takeaways

    Navigating academic challenges can be deeply personal and complex.

    Personal loss can significantly impact one's motivation and mental health.

    Pride Month serves as a time for reflection and celebration of identity.

    Cultural identities are shaped by regional differences and personal experiences.

    Family dynamics often reveal generational stories and histories.

    Weather and environment can profoundly affect daily life and mental well-being.

    The prison industrial complex is a significant issue in American society.

    Ghost stories often reflect personal experiences with loss and memory.

    The Hatfield-McCoy feud illustrates the complexities of Appalachian history and identity.

    Community and connection are vital in navigating personal and societal challenges.

    Chapters


    00:00 Pride Month Reflections and Personal Stories

    02:05 Cultural Identities and Regional Differences

    06:01 Family Dynamics and Generational Stories

    08:06 The Impact of Weather and Environment on Life

    11:08 The Prison Industrial Complex and Its Implications

    13:55 Ghost Stories and Personal Experiences with Loss

    16:45 The Hatfield-McCoy Feud: History and Legacy

    01:08:13 New Chapter

    tags:


    academic challenges, personal loss, Pride Month, cultural identities, family dynamics, weather impact, prison industrial complex, ghost stories, Hatfield-McCoy feud


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    45 mins
  • #4 Bible Camp Jailbreak
    Jun 22 2025

    In this engaging conversation, hosts Dash and Beck explore their experiences growing up queer in Central Appalachia, touching on themes of food, driving culture, education, family dynamics, religion, and the impact of poverty. They share humorous anecdotes and personal stories that highlight the complexities of their upbringing, the challenges they faced, and the resilience they developed along the way. The discussion flows naturally from light-hearted banter about food cravings to deeper reflections on their childhood experiences and the societal influences that shaped their identities. In this engaging conversation, Dash and Beck share personal anecdotes about their driving experiences, family dynamics, and the challenges they faced growing up. They reflect on their friendship over the years, the humor found in cultural experiences, and delve into the significance of the pepperoni roll in Appalachian culture. The discussion is filled with laughter, insights, and a deep appreciation for their roots.

    Takeaways

    The conversation begins with a humorous take on food cravings and local dining experiences.

    Driving culture in Central Appalachia is marked by aggression and a sense of urgency.

    Local rivalries and redneck experiences are common themes in small-town life.

    Education plays a significant role in shaping personal identities and overcoming challenges.

    Family dynamics, including adoption, can profoundly impact one's life trajectory.

    Religion often intersects with personal beliefs and identity, leading to conflict and self-discovery.

    Navigating poverty and access to education is a recurring struggle for many in the region.

    Life choices, such as pursuing higher education, can have lasting effects on family relationships.

    Reflections on childhood experiences reveal the complexities of growing up in a unique cultural context.

    Consequences of behavior in school can lead to significant life lessons and personal growth. Dash shares a humorous story about getting a speeding ticket as a teenager.

    Beck recounts a family incident involving a psych hold and a blizzard.

    The friends reflect on their long-lasting friendship and how they've changed over the years.

    They discuss the cultural significance of the pepperoni roll in Appalachian cuisine.

    Dash humorously describes the challenges of growing up in a rural area.

    Beck shares a funny story about a neighbor helping with yard work.

    The conversation touches on the bystander effect and personal responsibility.

    They reflect on their childhood experiences with food and family dynamics.

    Dash and Beck share their thoughts on the importance of community and humor.

    The episode highlights the beauty and complexity of Appalachian culture.

    tags:

    queer culture, Central Appalachia, food, driving, education, family, religion, poverty, personal stories, humor, driving experiences, family dynamics, friendship, cultural reflections, pepperoni roll, Appalachian culture, personal struggles, humor, life changes, anecdotes

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Food Cravings

    02:52 Driving and Aggression in Central Appalachia

    05:41 Local Rivalries and Redneck Experiences

    08:43 Education and Personal Struggles

    11:37 Family Dynamics and Adoption

    14:15 Religion and Personal Beliefs

    17:27 Navigating Poverty and Education

    20:11 Life Choices and Their Impact

    23:10 Reflections on Childhood and School Experiences

    25:56 Trouble and Consequences in School

    33:21 Driving Experiences and Early Mistakes

    37:35 Family Dynamics and Personal Struggles

    40:19 Friendship and Life Changes

    41:22 Cultural Reflections and Humor

    54:01 Nouns of Interest

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    49 mins
  • #3 The Blizzard of '93 Cryptid
    Jun 15 2025

    Dash and Beck explore their shared experiences growing up in rural Appalachia, touching on themes of family dynamics, political ideologies, and the humorous challenges of winter life. They reflect on their childhood memories, dating experiences, and the unique aspects of their queer identities in a conservative environment. The discussion is filled with laughter, personal anecdotes, and a deep sense of community. In this engaging conversation, Dash and Beck reflect on their childhood experiences in Appalachia, sharing nostalgic memories of winter, family, and the unique challenges of growing up queer in a rural setting. They discuss the complexities of gender identity and sexual attraction, as well as the impact of societal norms on their lives. The conversation also touches on the Mothman legend, exploring its significance in Appalachian folklore and culture.

    Key Takeaways

    The importance of local community in rural life.

    Humor can be a coping mechanism for difficult experiences.

    Navigating family dynamics can be complex, especially regarding political beliefs.

    Childhood memories shape our adult identities.

    Dating experiences can vary greatly based on personal circumstances.

    Winter presents unique challenges in rural areas.

    Shared experiences create strong bonds between friends.

    The impact of upbringing on political ideologies.

    Humor often arises from shared cultural references.

    The significance of personal anecdotes in storytelling. The holler culture included unique communication methods like party lines.

    Childhood adventures in the snow fostered community and creativity.

    Winter smells evoke strong memories tied to family and home.

    Growing up queer in Appalachia presented unique challenges and experiences.

    Gender identity and sexual attraction are not the same; they are distinct aspects of identity.

    Trans experiences in sports highlight the complexities of identity and acceptance.

    Nostalgia plays a significant role in shaping our understanding of childhood.

    Family connections, especially with cousins, are deeply valued.

    Cultural norms around gender can create barriers to self-acceptance.

    Folklore, like the Mothman, reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Appalachia.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Local Life

    02:50 Humorous Anecdotes and Shared Experiences

    05:41 Navigating Family Dynamics and Political Ideologies

    11:00 Reflections on Childhood and Growing Up

    16:44 Dating Experiences and Relationships

    21:33 Winter in the Hills: Challenges and Memories

    35:37 Nostalgic Winter Memories

    38:22 Childhood Adventures in the Snow

    41:05 The Smells of Winter and Family

    44:02 Growing Up Queer in Appalachia

    48:02 Gender Identity and Sexual Attraction

    51:00 Trans Experiences in Sports

    53:57 The Mothman Legend and Appalachian Folklore

    tags: queer, rural, Appalachian, family, politics, relationships, winter, humor, childhood, community, Appalachia, winter memories, queer identity, trans experiences, Mothman, childhood adventures, gender identity, nostalgia, family, folklore

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    42 mins
  • Introducing QUEERNECKS
    Jun 11 2025

    Just a few highlights and teasers of the kinds of things your hosts Dash and Beck get up to.

    P1GKsirrtQgJj57a8qPe

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    1 min
  • #1 Bingo 401k and Hoarding Shoes
    Jun 8 2025

    Dash and Beck, (who forgot to introduce themselves in this first episode) the experiences of growing up in a redneck culture, focusing on themes of poverty, resourcefulness, and family dynamics. The speakers share personal stories about their childhoods, including memories of moonshine, food traditions, and the impact of socioeconomic status on their lives. They also delve into cultural identity, particularly the Melungeon heritage, and reflect on the intersection of politics and personal experiences. The discussion highlights the complexities of navigating relationships within families that have differing expectations and values, as well as the lasting effects of trauma and health issues in their communities.

    Some highlights:

    The conversation highlights the unique setup of a redneck podcast.

    Childhood experiences shape perspectives on material scarcity.

    Resourcefulness is a key theme in navigating poverty.

    Growing up in a food desert impacts adult life.

    Family stories about moonshine reveal cultural heritage.

    The Melungeon identity is explored in depth.

    Expectations from family can create tension and conflict.

    Food traditions play a significant role in family dynamics.

    Health issues and trauma are common in these narratives.

    The intersection of culture and politics is complex and nuanced.

    Chapter timestamps:

    00:00 Setting the Scene: Podcast Setup and Personal Spaces

    00:19 Reflections on Childhood and Material Security

    00:39 Navigating Poverty: Micro Economies and Resourcefulness

    01:13 Cultural Connections: Food, Family, and Community

    01:39 Queer Histories: Identity and Growing Up in Appalachia

    02:27 The Impact of Industry: Work and Economic Opportunities

    03:10 Health and Welfare: Navigating Medical Needs

    04:13 Food Traditions: Appalachian Cuisine and Family Recipes

    05:45 Euphemisms and Regional Dialects

    06:23 Food Memories and Family Recipes

    07:23 Childhood Independence and Self-Sufficiency

    09:04 Family Dynamics and Substance Abuse

    09:23 Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

    10:36 Redneck Identity and Cultural Misunderstandings

    12:20 Ancestry and Family Histories

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    42 mins