Mountain Magnolia Show — Episode 63 with Cathryn The Grateful   Today’s episode is one of my favorites — and a milestone — the first time I’ve ever recorded the Mountain Magnolia Show from home. It felt sacred to welcome my friend Cathryn Davis aka Cathryn The Grateful into that space.   Cathryn is not only a filmmaker, activist, minister, and creative visionary — she is one of the people who has done the deepest work to preserve and uplift the story of Black Mountain College, one of the most influential places in our region’s history.   Why Black Mountain College Matters to WNC From 1933–1957, Black Mountain College operated just a few miles from town — a radical experiment in community-centered, collaborative education. It welcomed European refugees fleeing fascism, artists escaping convention, and thinkers hungry for possibility.   This tiny school in the mountains shaped the world:   • Buckminster Fuller built his first geodesic dome here • John Cage staged the first multimedia “Happening” • Merce Cunningham revolutionized modern dance • Josef & Anni Albers shaped modern art & design • The Black Mountain Review launched the Beat poets • Its work program inspired Warren Wilson’s model • Its community ethos helped shape WNC’s creative identity   The ripple effect of Black Mountain College still lives in:  our arts community,  our schools,  our festivals , our creativity, and  our mountain spirit   And in many ways, the community-centered, collaborative heart of WNC today can be traced back to BMC’s presence here.   Fully Awake — the Documentary Cathryn co-created Fully Awake with fellow Asheville native Neeley House — a documentary that gathers student interviews, faculty stories, archival photographs, and rare footage to illuminate BMC’s legacy. It has screened at MoMA, film festivals worldwide, and most beautifully — here at home at LEAF, in the very space students once walked.   Cathryn’s Journey   Her story is as rich as her work: Born on sacred mounds in Macon… raised in Asheville… clown training, theater, debate… a life-changing season in London… Cultural Studies at UNC… and a chance question in a NYC green room that led to 25 years of devotion to Black Mountain College.   Her life continues in service through: • Civic activism & justice work • Sacred ecology & seed sovereignty • Enough Pie (Charleston) — combating gentrification with creativity • Housing advocacy • Spiritual leadership • Movement healing & dance medicine   She opened our episode with a quote she lives by:   “The place God calls you is where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” — Frederick Buechner   Our conversation is filled with heart, wisdom, history, creativity, and the magic of our mountains.    Listen to Episode 63 — “Cathryn the Grateful: Fully Awake at Black Mountain College.”    Learn more: fullyawake.org  

 Reconstitution by Mitch Emoff, Directed By Lucy O'Brian   World Premiere | November 14–16, 2025    Black Mountain Center for the Arts | Black Mountain, NC   “Theatre is a form of knowledge; it should and can also be a means of transforming society.” — Augusto Boal   In this episode of The Mountain Magnolia Show, host Mary Noble Braden talks with playwright Mitch Emoff about his new play Reconstitution, making its world premiere this November at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts.   Show Dates: November 14–16, 2025  Fri & Sat 7:30 PM | Sun Matinee 2 PM Tickets: $20 Adults | $15 Students (ages 11–17)** Visit BlackMountainArts.org for tickets.   About the Play:   On the last day of school, a history teacher’s “experimental lesson” zaps four high-school students into the spirits of America’s Founding Fathers — Franklin, Washington, Patrick Henry, and Madison. In a classroom turned battleground, they debate freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, the three-fifths compromise, and freedom of speech — all while navigating TikToks and classroom cliques.   From Our Conversation:   “All local talents. Many who want to go on after college and go into professional theater. We’ve been blessed with an incredible cast — some from the Black Mountain area, some homeschooled children, and some from Asheville High School, sprinkled all around. It’s been wonderful to watch them bond and become like a family. By the end, everyone’s hugging and sad it’s over.”     Mitch shared how Reconstitution first came to life:   “It’s the first story I ever wrote, back in 2009. I hadn’t even been writing before that, but I knew I had a story in me — about the Founding Fathers coming back in time in their own bodies. Later, my publisher in Chicago, Gittleman and Good Publishers, suggested I adapt it so the Founding Fathers come back as high school students. I thought, that’s brilliant. It opened the door to ask whether our Constitution can adapt to the modern world. It’s really my first work — but the fifth play I’ve written — and the only one that’s been a novel, a screenplay, and now a play.”     About BMCA: The Black Mountain Center for the Arts was incorporated in 1995 and opened in 2000 with the mission to “bring the arts to the people and the people to the arts.”

This week on The Mountain Magnolia Show, we’re celebrating five flavorful years of Cousins Cuban Café in Black Mountain, North Carolina — and the woman whose heart and soul have made it a community treasure: Beatriz “Betty” Martinez-Sperry. From her roots in Miami to the mountains of WNC, Betty brings the warmth of Cuban culture to every plate. Her food tells a story — of family, of migration, of love — and her café has become a gathering place where friendships are formed over café con leche, Cuban sandwiches, and shared laughter. Join us as we talk about: What inspired Betty to open her café in Black Mountain  The power of food as a bridge between cultures  How she infuses tradition with modern flavor (including vegan options!)  And her favorite dish for first-timers — the Mojo Pork Bowl   “Food is a memory. Every flavor tells the story of where we come from and who we love.” ~ Unknown    Celebrate Cousins’ 5-year anniversary — Friday, Oct 17, 5-8 p.m. — with mojitos, appetizers, and community connections!

This week on The Mountain Magnolia Show, I sit down with Jennifer Pickering, the visionary behind LEAF Festival and LEAF Global Arts, as the beloved fall festival celebrates its 30th anniversary at Lake Eden in Black Mountain, North Carolina on October  16-19th, 2025.   Jennifer shares the inspiring story of LEAF’s founding — how a dream of creating a place where families could connect with world cultures blossomed into one of WNC’s most cherished community traditions.   We talked about the festival’s theme this year — “Live Life Like a Festival” — which is also the title of Jennifer’s upcoming book capturing 30 years of heartfelt conversations, global art, and connection.   She reflects on the spirit of resilience and rebuilding that defines this year’s celebration, and shares touching stories like the creation of the Luminary Ceremony, held Saturday night ( Oct 18th) at 7 p.m. — a moment of silence and light honoring those who have passed, reminding us who we walk with and whose footsteps we follow.    Highlights: • The origins of LEAF and its global cultural impact • The beauty and meaning of the Luminary Ceremony • The 2025 Poetry Slam — one of the world’s longest-running slams, hosted by James Navé • Jennifer’s personal reflections on Lake Eden’s magic and community   ~ Learn more & get tickets: https://theleaf.org ~View the lineup: https://theleaf.org/leaf-october-festival/ "Stay curious and treasure those cultural traditions — that’s the sweetness of life.” – Jennifer Pickering   #MountainMagnoliaShow #LEAFFestival #LEAFGlobalArts #Asheville #BlackMountain #WNC #LiveLifeLikeAFestival #CommunityVoices #LocalArts

This week I welcome Eve Stevens—spiritual coach, ordained minister, and priestess—whose journey reminds us that real transformation begins with naming what we want to change, and what we long to create.   Eve’s path carried her from seminary in New York to ministry in Charlotte, and eventually here to the mountains of Western North Carolina. Along the way, she shifted from long hours in the pulpit to blending nutrition, spiritual coaching, and emotional well-being into a holistic practice of healing.   Her words stay with me: “Coaching is making changes in order to heal, and therapy is healing in order to make changes.”   And from her own writing: “Once I learned the names of what I wanted to change, the power to do so found me. Once I learned the names of what I wanted to create, new energy flowed into me.” Eve’s story is an invitation for us all: to pause, to listen, and to honor what we feel by calling it by name. Book a spiritual heath coaching session  @ https://www.anatomyofchange.life #MountainMagnoliaShow #Asheville #BlackMountain #SpiritualCoaching #HealthAndWellness #CommunityVoices

Please join me in welcoming Rich Caisse to the Mountain Magnolia Show!   Rich is an EC teacher and Wrestling Coach at Owen High School. He attended Appalachian State University (1999–2004), where he was a proud member of the wrestling team. After some years in Florida, he and his wife longed for the mountains of Western North Carolina, and in 2011 they returned to WNC to build their life here.   Today, Rich serves as case manager for 17 exceptional children and coaches 25 student athletes on Owen High School’s wrestling team.   Rich shared these powerful words with me: “Beyond the mat and classroom.” That phrase reflects his mission. I’ve seen him firsthand not only coaching athletes, but also showing up for them in the community. After Tropical Storm Helene, Rich and his team worked side by side to help neighbors clear tree debris—all while raising money to fund their tournaments. His drive to support and mentor our youth is truly next-level.   How You Can Support the Team The Owen High School Wrestling Team is gearing up for the 2025–2026 season, and Rich shared a few ways our community can rally behind them:   Fans in the stands! Show up for home matches—your energy makes a huge difference. Donate to the fundraiser. Every contribution, big or small, helps the wrestlers pursue their goals.   https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-owen-high-wrestling-teams-journey   The team’s motto says it all: “Family is how we break it down every day.” And when you see the camaraderie, dedication, and heart in this group—you know it’s true.   Let’s cheer them on, lift them up, and celebrate the spirit of community that Rich and his wrestlers embody.

 Meet Samara Price, owner of Brew Naturals in Black Mountain!    Her journey started with a simple recipe to keep her little one healthy… and today she’s creating amazing elderberry syrups, butters, mixers, and even a knock-your-socks-off barbecue sauce!     From 3-gallon pots in her kitchen to a 40-gallon kettle in her purple cottage on West Street, Samira now uses over 1,000 pounds of elderberries a year — all sourced from local + domestic farms.   Why elderberry?  It’s a native superfood, rich in antioxidants + immune support. Daily use may help keep colds + flus away, and at the first sign of sniffles it can even shorten the duration.   From elderberry lemonade  to peach butter  to craft cocktails , Samira shows us that elderberry isn’t just medicine — it’s delicious, versatile food that brings health + joy to the table. Fun Fact  9 0z of elderberry syrup has 3000 elberries.     Find her at local farmers markets and taste the difference for yourself. Brew Naturals is Black Mountain’s own blend of wellness, creativity, and community.   To sign up for Brew Naturals newsletter and  order elderberry products go to https://www.brewnaturals.com   #BrewNaturals #ElderberryLove #BlackMountainNC #ShopLocal #MountainMagnoliaShow #WNCWellness Come be on The Mountain Magnolia Show where I reveal the heart and soul of our community members here in WNC.  Listen on Spotify – The Mountain Magnolia’s  or tune in to Big Foot 103.9 FM  Sat at 10 AM Wed at 7 PM  Listen Live  

 Happy Saturday, beautiful people!  We’ve got a special treat for you on the Mountain Magnolia Show today!  Please help me welcome the amazing Rhoda Weaver!   Born right here in Asheville, Rhoda grew up singing with her family in church and at gatherings—and she’s carried that passion into a life full of music. You’ll find her lighting up festivals, weddings, churches, and even busking in downtown Asheville.     Rhoda is also the soulful voice behind Rhoda & The Risers, a Black Mountain–based band playing Motown, soul, and funk that will have you dancing in no time. Catch them live at the Black Mountain Blues Festival, Friday, Sept 26th at 4:30 PM—you won’t want to miss it!    Fun fact: Rhoda also runs an airport shuttle business—and rumor has it, she just might sing you a tune along the way.    Rhoda, thank you for sharing your heart and soul with our community. You are a true inspiration.     Check out Rhoda & The Risers on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/t-qEzC94geQ?si=_aETKP3DIodUBuz2  To book Rhoda & The Risers or Her AIrport Shuttle Service call : 828-702-6663   Full interview now streaming! Listen on Spotify – The Mountain Magnolia’s or tune in to Big Foot 103.9 FM Wednesdays at 7 PM Saturdays at 10 AM  

 Movement, Mindfulness & Finding Your Happy Place    This week on the Mountain Magnolia Show, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Christey Carwile, owner of Elemental Pilates in Black Mountain, NC.She is , is the heart and soul behind Elemental Pilates in Black Mountain. We talked about the healing power of movement, how we work out our work, and how she turned a pandemic parking lot Pilates class into a beautiful community studio. From earning her PhD in Anthropology to building a thriving Pilates studio, Christey has lived a life dedicated to both the mind and the body. We talked about:  “Movement is not just about fitness—it’s about working things out of your body so they don’t become pain.” – Christey Carwile  How movement can carry us through grief, stress, and life’s toughest seasons  Why “working it out” is more than just exercise—it’s healing  The journey from teaching in her home to creating a warm, welcoming studio space where the community can thrive Whether you’re new to Pilates or simply need a reminder to get up and move, Christey’s story will inspire you to make space for your body and your joy.   Visit Elemental at 106 WNC Shopping Center Dr, Black Mountain, NC 28711 or on the web at https://www.elemental-pilates.com/about-us

Please welcome Emma Allen, the creator and owner of Everyday Oil, proudly based right here in Black Mountain, NC. Emma started making Everyday Oil for herself years ago—out of necessity. She couldn’t find a product that was effective, high-quality, and fairly priced. So, like any true innovator, she created it. What began as a personal solution soon grew into a beloved, all-purpose skincare staple used by people across the country. Everyday Oil is made from a powerful blend of organic, cold-pressed, plant-based oils. It’s designed to do it all—cleanse, moisturize, balance your skin, and even nourish your hair and cuticles. It’s antimicrobial, healing, and gentle enough for all skin types—including oily and acne-prone skin. Originally formulated as a face oil, Emma quickly discovered how versatile it really was. Today, it’s a minimalist’s dream: one product, endless uses, packed with certified organic, cruelty-free, microbiome-friendly ingredients that are clinically proven to be non-comedogenic. Emma and her small but mighty team here in Black Mountain pour love and integrity into every bottle, with the goal of making Everyday Oil something you can truly rely on—a daily essential rooted in care, simplicity, and intention. One of Emma’s favorite quotes is from spiritual teacher Ram Dass: “You can do it like it’s a great weight on you, or you can do it like a dance.” It’s a reminder that how we move through life is up to us. And that sentiment is woven into the very heart of Everyday Oil—a product made not just for your skin, but for your spirit, too. So whether you’re discovering it for the first time or you’re already a fan, you’re going to love learning more about the inspiring woman behind it all. Follow them on Instagram: @everyday_oil Learn more: everydayoil.com Listen on Spotify – The Mountain Magnolia Show https://open.spotify.com/show/3HmQ9JNaYoGWHgwgbryk0B... Or tune in to Big Foot 103.9 FM Wednesdays at 7 PM Saturdays at 10 AM

Welcome to the Mountain Magnolia Show!   Today, I’m thrilled to introduce someone who’s no stranger to the heart of Black Mountain hospitality — Danielle Topping. Danielle has been the manager at Que Sera Restaurant and Oyster Bar for over a decade. When longtime owners Carl and Janie decided to retire, it was only natural for Danielle to carry forward their legacy. She recently stepped into her new role as owner, and with her at the helm, Que Sera continues to shine as one of Black Mountain’s culinary gems.   Que Sera isn’t just a restaurant — it’s an experience. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or making new ones, you’re almost guaranteed to see a familiar face. The menu highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and seafood delicacies straight from the Atlantic. But more than that, it’s a place that nourishes both body and soul — rooted in community, flavor, and genuine service.   Looking for a casual evening out or something a bit more refined? Que Sera has both — the relaxed Oyster Bar and the elegant dining room are back-to-back, offering a little something for every taste. Sip a cold pint with the always-popular oyster shucker or settle in at a white tablecloth table with attentive service.   Upcoming Event Spotlight Wine Club: Greek Series – July 21 at 6 PM Join us for an evening of exquisite Greek wines. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just beginning your wine journey, there’s a glass waiting for you. Taste 6 hand-picked selections and hear the stories behind each one. $45 – Try & Buy    Hours   Monday: Oyster Bar Only | 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM Tuesday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Follow Que Sera on Facebook https://www.queserarestaurant.com/

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: The Laundry – Black Mountain, NC     Today’s Mountain Magnolia Show is one you won’t want to miss. Please welcome Luna Carwyn, co-owner of The Laundry, alongside her amazing business partners Addie King and Emily Abney.   Luna has called Black Mountain home since she was just 3 years old, and it’s been such a joy to watch her grow into someone giving so much back to this community. I’ve known Luna since her Art Space days with my son—so it’s especially meaningful to see her creating something this special.   Every week, we share a quote that ties into the heart of our episode. This week’s quote says it all: “Sustainability is not about doing less harm, it’s about doing more good.” — Jochen Zeitz   So, what is The Laundry all about? It’s not just a shop—it’s a movement. Located in the heart of downtown Black Mountain, The Laundry is: A refillery with earth-friendly products A coffee bar serving locally roasted goodness A pottery studio filled with handmade beauty   Step inside and you’re transported—imagine a cozy French café infused with the scent of essential oils, thoughtfully curated gifts (from Chanel-inspired robes to artisan cutting boards), and a European-inspired design that’s both elegant and inviting.

In this episode, we sit down with Candace Reilly, Executive Director of the North Carolina Glass Center, to explore how Asheville’s rich creative culture, and the silica-rich mountains, helped shape a thriving hub for glass artists from around the region and beyond. Candace shares what brought her to Western North Carolina over 15 years ago, from being drawn in by the abundance of artists and community to eventually joining the board for the Non-Profit and growing the organization.  We’ll talk about the Glass Center’s beginnings in the River Arts District, the newly opened Black Mountain Studio, and the vital role “experience tourism” has played in their growth. Whether you’re looking to take a 30-minute hands-on class, dive into an 8-week intensive, or browse the gallery featuring over 80 regional artists, this nonprofit organization is a must-visit.  With 6 workstations across both locations, a welcoming team of instructors, and a deep commitment to artist education and affordability, the NC Glass Center makes the art of glassblowing accessible to all. Did you know? Over 80% of the Non-Profit Glass Center’s income comes from tourism, making your visit or donation vital to sustaining WNC’s vibrant art community. Walk-ins welcome Wednesday - Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM at both locations, or book your experience online: ncglasscenter.org/classes Mark your calendar for the Black Mountain Grand Opening Celebration on October 4th! We'll see you there!  

Welcome to the Mountain Magnolia Show, where we celebrate the heart and soul of our community. Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Lori Cozi, Executive Director of the Black Mountain Center for the Arts. Lori joins us to talk about one of the area’s most anticipated events — the 19th annual Art in Bloom, happening this weekend, June 19th through 22nd. If you’ve never experienced this beautiful celebration of creativity, nature, and community, I can’t recommend it enough. Art in Bloom is a rich, multi-day event featuring two gallery exhibits, stunning live floral arrangements, and a local garden tour where you’ll encounter working artists creating in real time. Whether you attend one part or enjoy the whole weekend, your presence directly supports the thriving arts community in Black Mountain.   To view the schedule go to : https://www.blackmountainarts.org/artinbloom   Black Mountain Center for the Arts offers an array of art, music,dance classes, and kids camps. To view classes go to: https://www.blackmountainarts.org/classes  

Join us as Mary Noble Braden sits down with Kim Hughes, co-founder of White Horse Black Mountain and Sacred Self Living, and the Om Girls. Kim shares the inspiring story behind the creation of White Horse Black Mountain alongside her then-partner Bob Hinkle, and her stories behind her Masters in Counseling, and her dedication to helping people ‘individuate’. Dive deep into a rich conversation about spirituality, Carl Jung, the wisdom of Rumi, and the art of serving others. Plus, hear how a transformative Hurricane Helene reshaped Kim’s immediate community—and became a profound blessing in her life. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of vision, healing, and connection on this episode of Mountain Magnolia’s.