We recorded these 4 episodes live at our Annual Woods & Wilds Storytelling Event in August of 2024. We want to thank everyone who came out and attended the event. Experience the magic by listening to this latest season of Woods & Wilds: The Podcast.
Episode 1: How Tall is My Tree by Safiya Myers
Safiya Myers kicks us off with a story about her roots.
Born to parents in the Army, Safiya has had many addresses. She understands how to make a place a home. She immerses herself in culture through travel and listening to stories. Safiya believes storytelling is the medicine we need. In her free time, she listens to storytelling podcasts. Safiya’s favorite thing to do is snuggle her super cute daughter.
Episode 2: Without Forgiveness There is No Truth by DeWayne Barton
DeWayne Barton shares his frightening experience as a child in the woods. He takes us on a journey of forgiveness and asks us, “Why hold hate?”
DeWayne is a native of Asheville, NC. He’s a veteran and the author two books of poetry. DeWayne has advanced community and youth development for over 30 years. As a visual and performing artist, his work is grounded in environmental justice and climate resilience. His art has featured at Duke University, Smithsonian Institute’s Museum of African American History & Culture, and the August Wilson Museum. He is co-founder of both Peace Gardens & Market and Green Opportunities. DeWayne is the founder and CEO of Hood Huggers.
Episode 3: Thank You for Opening Your Hearts by Holly Paar
Holly Paar’s story paints a picture of the tree loss in Iceland. She speaks to our need to preserve our innocence. To connect with nature.
Holly Paar has lived WNC for 30 years. She is a painter, musician, poet, filmmaker, photographer, and storyteller. She has premiered two films at the Asheville Fringe Festival. Held art shows. Performed live, both solo and with bands. She’s won poetry slams and generally had a good time. Holly thinks of herself as an “adventure artist.” She’s a druid and the Advancement Director for Dogwood Alliance.
Episode 4: We Need Each Other by Richie Harding
Richie Harding’s story begins in his idyllic youth. Then he shows us how his home has changed because of environmental injustices. He speaks to us of fighting back, solidarity, and interconnection.
Richie majored in computer programming at Hardbarger Junior College of Business. He’s the pastor for New Vision Christian Center. He’s also the CEO of Visionware Recordings and the Executive Director of Gaston Youth. Gaston Youth teaches kids to grow vegetables and appreciate the earth. Richie and his community face pollution from hog farms and wood pellets facilities. His mother worked to protect their community’s water 20 years ago. Richie is proud to follow in her footsteps.
2024 Woods & Wilds: Live Storytelling Event
Dogwood Alliance’s Woods & Wilds is a magical storytelling event. Every year, we come together to share our love and connection to the forest. In 2024, we had amazing live music and an incredible line-up of storytellers. Including activists, community leaders, and performers.
Get a taste of our Season 5 storytellers giving their live performances.
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