To kick off this episode, your host, Mike Smith, explores the intersection of forest, fire, and climate, thinking about how natural disasters shape our opinions on climate. He discusses his personal experience with wildfires and the role of climate change in exacerbating fire risks. He also touches on the history of wildfire suppression and the need for forest management practices.

Next, he welcomes his guest, Dylan Jones of Highland Outdoors, and they discuss the importance of storytelling in raising awareness about the environment and the unique beauty of West Virginia. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for collective action and shared values to address the challenges of climate change. They cover various themes related to climate change and its impact on West Virginia, including the emotional connection to forests, the increased threats of flooding and drought, the need for consensus and engagement across political spectrums, the role of small businesses in addressing climate change, the resurgence of print media, and the importance of central Appalachia in the fight against climate change.