Beth Macy: Journalist, Author, Fighter for the Working Class

About this episode

Beth Macy discusses her journey from journalist to political candidate and the importance of storytelling in addressing the struggles of rural communities.

In this episode, Beth Macy joins Heidi and Joel to discuss her compelling journey from journalist to political candidate. She explores how her books illuminate the struggles of rural communities facing economic and social upheaval, and how storytelling can serve as a catalyst for political change. Beth shares her insights on reconnecting with voters across political divides, the importance of local narratives, and her vision for representing rural America in Congress. Key topics covered: Beth Macy’s background as a journalist and author of Factory Man, Dopesick, and Paper Girl The impact of globalization, NAFTA, and foreign trade policies on rural jobs and communities How the opioid crisis and big tech regulation highlight broader societal failures The personal stories that catalyzed her decision to run for Congress Strategies for bridging political divides through shared values and empathy The challenges and opportunities of campaigning in Virginia’s Sixth District The influence of media, misinformation, and the decline of local journalism The role of the farm bill, small farms, and rural economic policies Beth’s approach to reconnecting with her family across political lines…

People in this episode

Hosts: Heidi, Joel

Guest: Beth Macy

Topics covered

• journalism
• political candidacy
• rural communities
• economic struggles
• storytelling
• political change
• campaigning

Keywords

• Beth Macy
• journalism
• politics
• rural America
• economic policies
• opioid crisis
• local journalism
• campaigning
• political divides
• storytelling

Sponsors

One Country Project

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Factory Man, Dopesick, Paper Girl

Places: Virginia

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