The Mountain Magnolia’s Podcast

What happens when a passion for vintage treasures, local artists, and community all come together under one roof?
In this episode, I sit down with Dana Esposito, co-owner of Black Mountain Variety, to explore the inspiring journey from the beloved Black Mountain Vintage to an expanded community marketplace filled with vintage clothing, handcrafted goods, artwork, jewelry, records, home décor, locally made foods, and products from more than 50 talented local artisans.
In this episode, Dana shares:
- The story behind the move and expansion into their beautiful new location- Why supporting local artists and makers is at the heart of their mission- How vintage fashion promotes sustainability and quality craftsmanship- The value of strong business partnerships and recognizing each other’s unique strengths- How creating a welcoming, thoughtfully designed space encourages connection and community
More than just a store, Black Mountain Variety is a place to gather, discover one-of-a-kind treasures, support local makers, and experience the creativity that makes Black Mountain so special.
Visit Black Mountain Variety106 Sutton AvenueBlack Mountain, NC
Whether you’re searching for the perfect vintage outfit, a unique gift, beautiful artwork, or simply a place to slow down and connect, you’ll find something special waiting for you.
Find Black Mountain Variety online:
IG: @blackmountainvariety
 
Thank you for listening to The Mountain Magnolia's Show, where we reveal the heart and soul of our community—one story at a time.

 This week on The Mountain Magnolia Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ruen Ellis, co-owner of Side B Bar, one of Black Mountain’s newest and most intriguing gathering spaces.
Tucked beneath the historic Monte Vista Hotel at 106 New Bern Avenue, Side B is much more than a bar. It’s a place intentionally designed for connection, conversation, music, and slowing down long enough to enjoy the moment.
As Ruen says, “The best was always saved for the other side of the vinyl.”
Inspired by Japan’s legendary listening bars and informed by sounds, cultures, and experiences gathered from around the world, Side B feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
~Late-night lo-fi love ~Hi-fi sounds ~Global pours~Vibes for all the people of Black Mountain
During our conversation, Ruen shares his incredible journey from South Africa to Australia, Europe, New York, and ultimately Western North Carolina, along with the vision behind creating what many are already calling Black Mountain’s living room.
We also talk about their beautifully curated cocktail menu, including favorites like the smoky Dessert Funk, the refreshing Pink Noise, the Scandinavian-inspired Malmö, the Colombian espresso martini Calles de Cali, the tropical Indigo Drift, and the Japanese-inspired Club Toki-San. Even the non-alcoholic Arashiyama feels like a carefully crafted experience.
What I loved most is the intention behind every detail—from the vinyl records and listening room to the lighting, seating, and atmosphere. Side B is a place where music deserves attention, cocktails are crafted with care, and conversation is still one of life’s greatest pleasures.
If you’ve been curious about Side B or simply love hearing the stories behind the people helping shape our community, I think you’ll really enjoy this conversation.
 SIDE B Bar106 New Bern AvenueBasement of the Historic Monte Vista HotelBlack Mountain, NC 28711
 Hours:Tuesday–Thursday: 5 PM–11 PMFriday–Saturday: 5 PM–1 AMClosed Sunday & Monday
www.sideb-bar.com
So grab a cup of coffee, take a walk around Lake Tomahawk, or settle into your favorite chair and join us as we reveal the heart and soul of another special member of our Western North Carolina community.
Listen now on The Mountain Magnolia Show.
#MountainMagnoliaShow #BlackMountainNC #SideBBar #WesternNorthCarolina #Community #VinylCulture #CocktailCulture #BlackMountainLiving #SupportLocal #WNCLife

In this episode of The Mountain Magnolia Show, Mary Noble sits down with Black Mountain based attorney, advocate, and Buncombe County Commission candidate Anna Stearns.
 
The conversation opens with a powerful quote from Brian Solis:“Community is much more than belonging to something. It’s about doing something together that makes belonging matter.”
 
That quote becomes the heartbeat of this episode as Mary and Anna reflect on what community truly means in Buncombe County, from showing up for neighbors after Hurricane Helene, to rebuilding trust, supporting local families, and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and connected.
 
Together, they explore how our community is beginning to shift away from constant hustle and productivity and back toward human connection. They talk about slowing down, being present with one another, sitting on front porches again, checking on neighbors, sharing stories, and remembering that our value is not only tied to how productive we are.
 
Anna shares her journey from growing up in Buncombe County and becoming a young mother, to building a career rooted in service, law, and advocacy. Together, they discuss Swannanoa recovery efforts, public trust, local leadership, and the importance of reconnecting face to face.
 
Anna also explains what the Buncombe County Commission actually does , from setting county property tax rates and budgets, to supporting public schools, AB Tech, libraries, parks, DSS, public safety, and long-term recovery efforts throughout the county.
 
The episode also highlights the upcoming election, with voting taking place in November and early voting beginning in October.
 
To learn more about Anna Stearns, support her campaign, or get involved, visit Anna For Buncombe
 
At the heart of it all is a conversation about togetherness, kindness, resilience, and the role we each play in caring for our communities.

Opening Day for the Black Mountain Tailgate Market’s 32nd season is Saturday, May 2nd from 9 AM to 12 PM at 130 Montreat Road in Black Mountain , and I could not be more excited!
On this episode of the Mountain Magnolia Show, I had the joy of sitting down with Jacqueline Smith, Market Director, to talk about the heart, history, and community behind this beloved Black Mountain tradition.
The market is so much more than a place to buy fresh produce. It is where neighbors gather, farmers and makers are celebrated, music fills the air, and our community comes together in such a beautiful way.
Jacqueline also shared how the market, now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is helping support local farmers, artisans, musicians, children’s programming, culinary arts, and food access efforts right here in our community.
So grab your basket and come early for first picks of fresh strawberries, snap peas, baked goods, flowers, local meats, eggs, honey, handmade goods, and so much more.
Opening Day: Saturday, May 2ndTime: 9 AM – 12 PMLocation: 130 Montreat Road, Black Mountain
Let’s show up, support local, and celebrate the start of the market’s 32nd season together. 
To support food access for WNC please consider a monthly donation to Nourish Appalachia at tinyurl.com/feedwnc 
 
#MountainMagnoliaShow #BlackMountainTailgateMarket #BlackMountainNC #SupportLocal #FarmersMarket #WNCCommunity #NobleAndCompanyRealty

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about bread, tradition, craftsmanship, and the beauty of building community one loaf at a time.
 
“In a world of instant everything, sourdough reminds us that the best things still take time.” 
 
“Sourdough is like a baby that never grows up.”   -Martine Van Velden 
 
This week on the Mountain Magnolia Show, we welcome Martine Van Velden, owner of Stonewall Bakery, a beloved micro bakery nestled in the heart of Grovemont in Swannanoa, North Carolina.
 
Martine’s love for bread began over 10 years ago when she set out to feed her family the wholesome, nourishing bread she grew up with in the Netherlands—and today, that passion has grown into one of our area’s most treasured local bakeries.
 
At Stonewall Bakery, Martine believes “It’s all in the ingredients.” From locally sourced organic flour from Carolina Ground, to eggs from her chickens, produce from her garden, Dutch chocolate, French Broad cocoa, and even cherries flown in from California—every ingredient is intentionally chosen for quality and flavor.
 
Join me and Martine as we dive into the beautiful art and science behind true sourdough:
 
Why long fermentation makes bread easier to digest
Her meticulous week-long baking process
Why she uses spelt and rye for gentler digestion
How 200 loaves are prepared each week with patience and precision
 
Martine shares what makes her artisanal sourdough so special, and why supporting local food systems and small makers matters so deeply to her.
 
How to Order:
Visit https://stonewallbakery.com
Sign up for texts to receive the weekly menu and place your order.
 
Friday Pickup Locations:
 
Stonewall Bakery Micro Bakery – Grovemont in Swannanoa, NC
Beradu – Black Mountain, NC
Trout Lily – Fairview, NC
 
 
Find Stonewall Bakery at the Black Mountain Tailgate Market:
 
Spring Market: Saturdays 10–2 through end of April
(Behind Noble & Company Realty & The Grange)106  Black Mtn Ave and 120 Broadway 
Summer Market: Saturdays 9–12 beginning May 2
(At the Baptist Church) 130 Montreat Rd
 
 
Martine closes by sharing the one thing that changed her life for the better:
Being part of a community where people support one another in such a beautiful way.
 
 
Bread Making workshop on April 21st
https://www.history.swannanoavalleymuseum.org/wnc-hands-on-workshops/
 
socials
https://www.instagram.com/stonewall_bakery/
 
https://www.facebook.com/share/18SYj9hCca/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Holiday Happenings at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts with John Hall
 
In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with John Hall — associate director at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, and a well-loved actor, director, and arts advocate in our community. Our conversation dives into all of the incredible Holiday Happenings taking place over the next two weeks. These events bring world-class music, storytelling, comedy, and Appalachian traditions to the heart of Black Mountain.
 
Here’s a preview of what’s coming to BMCA:
 
Reasonably Priced Babies — Improv Comedy
Friday, December 12 | 6:30pm and 9pm | $20
Each show is completely unique, created on the spot from audience suggestions. Fresh, original, and always a great time.
 
Kellin Watson & Friends’ Holiday Special (featuring Aaron Price)
Saturday, December 13 | 7:30pm | $25
A beloved local favorite. The stage is transformed into a cozy living-room setting where Kellin and her friends share music and stories. Last year’s show sold out quickly.
 
Tales of Chanukah
Sunday, December 14 | 2pm | $15
Featuring storytellers Catherine Serota, Zane Chait, and Donna Catton-Johnson, with Larry Pearlman as emcee. A warm and uplifting celebration of the Festival of Lights.
 
Christmas in Appalachia — A Family Show
December 19–21 | $15 adults, $10 youth
A singin’, strummin’ holiday experience with Appalachian music, storytelling, and audience participation. Led by musician Travis Stuart, storyteller John Hall, and friends, this show explores holiday traditions and memories from our mountain region.
 
Beyond these performances, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts continues its mission of bringing art to the people and people to the art. Programs include dance classes, art and clay studios, private music lessons, the Junior Appalachian Musicians program, the Swannanoa Valley Community Chorus, and ongoing gallery exhibitions.
 
John’s closing reminder is one to carry with us:
“Life is short and we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who make the journey with us. Be swift to love and make haste to be kind.”
 
Listen to the full episode to hear more about the heart, history, and creativity that make BMCA such a vital part of our community.

Mountain Magnolia Show — Episode 63 with Cathryn The Grateful
 
Today’s episode is one of my favorites — and a milestone — the first time I’ve ever recorded the Mountain Magnolia Show from home. It felt sacred to welcome my friend Cathryn Davis aka Cathryn The Grateful into that space.
 
Cathryn is not only a filmmaker, activist, minister, and creative visionary — she is one of the people who has done the deepest work to preserve and uplift the story of Black Mountain College, one of the most influential places in our region’s history.
 
Why Black Mountain College Matters to WNC
From 1933–1957, Black Mountain College operated just a few miles from town — a radical experiment in community-centered, collaborative education. It welcomed European refugees fleeing fascism, artists escaping convention, and thinkers hungry for possibility.
 
This tiny school in the mountains shaped the world:
 
• Buckminster Fuller built his first geodesic dome here
• John Cage staged the first multimedia “Happening”
• Merce Cunningham revolutionized modern dance
• Josef & Anni Albers shaped modern art & design
• The Black Mountain Review launched the Beat poets
• Its work program inspired Warren Wilson’s model
• Its community ethos helped shape WNC’s creative identity
 
The ripple effect of Black Mountain College still lives in:
 our arts community,  our schools,  our festivals , our creativity, and  our mountain spirit
 
And in many ways, the community-centered, collaborative heart of WNC today can be traced back to BMC’s presence here.
 
Fully Awake — the Documentary
Cathryn co-created Fully Awake with fellow Asheville native Neeley House — a documentary that gathers student interviews, faculty stories, archival photographs, and rare footage to illuminate BMC’s legacy.
It has screened at MoMA, film festivals worldwide, and most beautifully — here at home at LEAF, in the very space students once walked.
 
Cathryn’s Journey
 
Her story is as rich as her work:
Born on sacred mounds in Macon… raised in Asheville… clown training, theater, debate… a life-changing season in London… Cultural Studies at UNC… and a chance question in a NYC green room that led to 25 years of devotion to Black Mountain College.
 
Her life continues in service through:
• Civic activism & justice work
• Sacred ecology & seed sovereignty
• Enough Pie (Charleston) — combating gentrification with creativity
• Housing advocacy
• Spiritual leadership
• Movement healing & dance medicine
 
She opened our episode with a quote she lives by:
 
“The place God calls you is where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” — Frederick Buechner
 
Our conversation is filled with heart, wisdom, history, creativity, and the magic of our mountains.
 
 Listen to Episode 63 — “Cathryn the Grateful: Fully Awake at Black Mountain College.”
 
 Learn more: fullyawake.org
 

 Reconstitution by Mitch Emoff, Directed By Lucy O'Brian
 
World Premiere | November 14–16, 2025
 
 Black Mountain Center for the Arts | Black Mountain, NC
 
“Theatre is a form of knowledge; it should and can also be a means of transforming society.” — Augusto Boal
 
In this episode of The Mountain Magnolia Show, host Mary Noble Braden talks with playwright Mitch Emoff about his new play Reconstitution, making its world premiere this November at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts.
 
Show Dates: November 14–16, 2025
 Fri & Sat 7:30 PM | Sun Matinee 2 PM
Tickets: $20 Adults | $15 Students (ages 11–17)**
Visit BlackMountainArts.org for tickets.
 
About the Play:
 
On the last day of school, a history teacher’s “experimental lesson” zaps four high-school students into the spirits of America’s Founding Fathers — Franklin, Washington, Patrick Henry, and Madison. In a classroom turned battleground, they debate freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, the three-fifths compromise, and freedom of speech — all while navigating TikToks and classroom cliques.
 
From Our Conversation:
 
“All local talents. Many who want to go on after college and go into professional theater. We’ve been blessed with an incredible cast — some from the Black Mountain area, some homeschooled children, and some from Asheville High School, sprinkled all around. It’s been wonderful to watch them bond and become like a family. By the end, everyone’s hugging and sad it’s over.”
 
 
Mitch shared how Reconstitution first came to life:
 
“It’s the first story I ever wrote, back in 2009. I hadn’t even been writing before that, but I knew I had a story in me — about the Founding Fathers coming back in time in their own bodies. Later, my publisher in Chicago, Gittleman and Good Publishers, suggested I adapt it so the Founding Fathers come back as high school students. I thought, that’s brilliant. It opened the door to ask whether our Constitution can adapt to the modern world. It’s really my first work — but the fifth play I’ve written — and the only one that’s been a novel, a screenplay, and now a play.”
 
 
About BMCA:
The Black Mountain Center for the Arts was incorporated in 1995 and opened in 2000 with the mission to “bring the arts to the people and the people to the arts.”

This week on The Mountain Magnolia Show, we’re celebrating five flavorful years of Cousins Cuban Café in Black Mountain, North Carolina — and the woman whose heart and soul have made it a community treasure: Beatriz “Betty” Martinez-Sperry.
From her roots in Miami to the mountains of WNC, Betty brings the warmth of Cuban culture to every plate. Her food tells a story — of family, of migration, of love — and her café has become a gathering place where friendships are formed over café con leche, Cuban sandwiches, and shared laughter.
Join us as we talk about:
What inspired Betty to open her café in Black Mountain
 The power of food as a bridge between cultures
 How she infuses tradition with modern flavor (including vegan options!)
 And her favorite dish for first-timers — the Mojo Pork Bowl
 
“Food is a memory. Every flavor tells the story of where we come from and who we love.” ~ Unknown
 
 Celebrate Cousins’ 5-year anniversary — Friday, Oct 17, 5-8 p.m. — with mojitos, appetizers, and community connections!

This week on The Mountain Magnolia Show, I sit down with Jennifer Pickering, the visionary behind LEAF Festival and LEAF Global Arts, as the beloved fall festival celebrates its 30th anniversary at Lake Eden in Black Mountain, North Carolina on October  16-19th, 2025.
 
Jennifer shares the inspiring story of LEAF’s founding — how a dream of creating a place where families could connect with world cultures blossomed into one of WNC’s most cherished community traditions.
 
We talked about the festival’s theme this year — “Live Life Like a Festival” — which is also the title of Jennifer’s upcoming book capturing 30 years of heartfelt conversations, global art, and connection.
 
She reflects on the spirit of resilience and rebuilding that defines this year’s celebration, and shares touching stories like the creation of the Luminary Ceremony, held Saturday night ( Oct 18th) at 7 p.m. — a moment of silence and light honoring those who have passed, reminding us who we walk with and whose footsteps we follow.
 
 Highlights:
• The origins of LEAF and its global cultural impact
• The beauty and meaning of the Luminary Ceremony
• The 2025 Poetry Slam — one of the world’s longest-running slams, hosted by James Navé
• Jennifer’s personal reflections on Lake Eden’s magic and community
 
~ Learn more & get tickets: https://theleaf.org
~View the lineup: https://theleaf.org/leaf-october-festival/
"Stay curious and treasure those cultural traditions — that’s the sweetness of life.” – Jennifer Pickering
 
#MountainMagnoliaShow #LEAFFestival #LEAFGlobalArts #Asheville #BlackMountain #WNC #LiveLifeLikeAFestival #CommunityVoices #LocalArts