Success Stories Shaping Rural America. From transforming rural public education to the impact of remote work on rural communities.
About the show
Talking Rural is a Rural Growth Initiative program. Each episode spotlights the people, places, and proven initiatives reshaping rural America — from education reform and workforce development to economic opportunity and community revitalization — telling the success stories that prove rural America's best days can be ahead of it.
Episodes
Discover how Doddridge County, WV, rose from 53rd to 3rd in state education rankings. Through holistic learning, workforce readiness, and community partnerships, they transformed student success and revitalized the area. A must-listen on rural education reform.
We explore the transformative “12 for Life” program in Carroll County, Georgia — a groundbreaking partnership between Southwire and local schools. This innovative initiative provides at-risk high school students with classroom education, on-the-job training, and essential life skills, helping them stay in school and achieve brighter futures. Learn how the program has created a lasting impact on students, their families, and the broader community.
In this insightful session, we explore the economic impact of remote work and what it means for rural communities. Learn how shifting workforce trends are creating new opportunities for small towns, what remote workers are looking for in a community, and how local leaders can position their towns to attract new residents and economic investment. A must-watch for anyone invested in the future of rural America.
What does it take to successfully market a rural community to new residents? In this session, we go behind the scenes of an innovative campaign designed to reverse population decline in Cheraw, SC. Hear from William Mitchell (Timothy + Sinclair) on how the campaign was built and from Rob Wolfe, Cheraw's Town Manager, on his direct engagement with potential residents. A powerful case study for rural leaders looking to grow their communities.
We're always looking for the people and places proving rural America's best days are ahead.
