Chris Stirewalt on Appalachia

Hardly Working with Brent Orrell

Today, we continue to explore Appalachia with Chris Stirewalt, a senior fellow at AEI. Stirewalt, who grew up in Wheeling, West Virginia, speaks to Brent about the unique culture and values of Appalachia, the role that strong families and institutions play in the region’s success, and potential solutions to the region’s challenges, from its opioid epidemic to educational “brain drain.” He also takes us through much of the history of the region, offering deep insight into the region’s identity. As you’ll hear, Stirewalt is optimistic about Appalachia and confident that the region can overcome its most difficult challenges.

Mentioned in this Episode

More than a Paycheck

Deaths of despair

Anne Case and Angus Deaton

Jay Rockefeller

Robert Byrd

Big White Ghetto by Kevin Williams

Randy Moss

West Virginia Hills by Reverend David King