In this episode, we are joined by Matt Raker, Executive Director of Mountain BizWorks, about the critical role of disaster recovery in fostering economic development in Appalachia. With firsthand insight into the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Matt shares how Mountain BizWorks and local organizations are helping small businesses rebuild, thrive, and embrace sustainable solutions.

We also sit down with Zuri Anuel, Director of the Western Women's Business Center, part of the Carolina Small Business Development Fund. They discuss the significant impact of Hurricane Helene on small businesses in Appalachia, particularly within the BIPOC community, and the multifaceted efforts of local organizations in disaster recovery.

Join us as we discuss the challenges and resilience of Appalachian communities, the innovative approaches to disaster recovery, and the inspiring stories of businesses on their path to recovery.

Find out more here:

• Mountain BizWorks: Learn more about their disaster recovery programs and how they support small businesses at mountainbizworks.org.
• WNC Strong Together: Explore resources for Western North Carolina businesses at wncstrongtogether.org.
• Western Women's Business Center - a program of Carolina Small Business Development Fund.

📣 Podcast Producer: Letisha Bereola (Paradigm Media Group)

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In this episode, we’re joined by Bill Greenleaf, Executive Director of Impact Lending at LOCUS, a Virginia-based CDFI. Bill shares how his passion for environmental sustainability and affordable housing led to the creation of LOCUS’s green lending program.

Discover how LOCUS is driving sustainability by financing solar and energy-efficient projects, empowering small businesses, and fostering community impact. Bill provides actionable insights for community lenders looking to enter the green lending space and highlights the transformative potential of initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act and community solar.

Find out more about Locus.

📣 Podcast Producer: Letisha Bereola (Paradigm Media Group)

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In this episode, we’re joined by Ray Daffner, Interim Program Director, and Pam Porter, Interim CFO of the Green Bank RapidStart Team, to explore the transformative potential of the Green Bank for Rural America. This innovative initiative unlocks public and private financing to drive sustainable energy projects, economic diversification, and resilience in rural communities, with a strong focus on Appalachia.

Ray and Pam share inspiring examples of projects that are revitalizing local economies, creating good jobs, and improving the quality of life—all while preserving the natural beauty of rural America.

Find out more here:

Green Bank for Rural America’s Website

📣 Podcast Producer: Letisha Bereola (Paradigm Media Group)

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In this episode, we’re joined by Donna Gambrell, President and CEO of Appalachian Community Capital (ACC), and a trailblazer in the community development space. Donna provides a deep dive into ACC’s mission as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) intermediary, explaining how the organization channels mission-driven capital to CDFIs that empower small businesses across Appalachia.

Discover how ACC is breaking down structural barriers to access, supporting rural entrepreneurs, and fostering economic growth through innovative initiatives like the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Opportunity Appalachia.

Find out more here:

• Appalachian Community Capital’s Website
• Opportunity Appalachia

📣 Podcast Producer: Letisha Bereola (Paradigm Media Group)

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Join us as we bring you stories straight from the heart of Appalachia—stories of resilience, growth, and transformation. Our mission? To showcase how strategic investments are empowering small businesses and communities to thrive.

Whether you’re an investor looking to create positive change or a business owner ready to grow, this podcast has something for you.

Don’t miss an episode—hit that subscribe button and join us on this journey of impact, growth, and collaboration. Together, we can shape a brighter future for Appalachia.

📣 Podcast Producer: Letisha Bereola (Paradigm Media Group)

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