Raff's Brain

Raff's Brain #42: Riffin' with Raff feat. Mike Tolhurst, Buckhannon, WV, & Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum!

• Rob Raffety

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Riffin' with Raff is the interview steam of Raff's Brain podcast. In today's episode, Rob interviews his friend and former colleague, Michael Tolhurst.

Raff's Brain is a show about things that are interesting to me, Rob Raffety.
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SUMMARY
In this episode of Raff's Brain, Rob Raffety sits down with his longtime friend and former colleague, Mike Tolhurst, to discuss Mike’s surprising connection to Rob’s hometown, Buckhannon, West Virginia. The conversation explores Mike’s visits to the area, including his experiences at local landmarks like the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and a historic bed and breakfast. Mike shares how West Virginia became his go-to escape from the D.C. pressure cooker and reflects on its charm, history, and hospitality. From coffee shops and pepperoni rolls to fascinating detours into state history, the episode is a celebration of small-town America and the unexpected connections that make life richer.

OUTLINE

  1. Introduction
    • Rob introduces Mike Tolhurst, a friend, former colleague, and admirer of Buckhannon, West Virginia.
    • Setup: Mike is an “outsider” with an unexpected appreciation for Rob’s hometown.
  2. Mike’s Introduction to Buckhannon
    • How Mike’s wife’s interest in ghost tours led them to the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.
    • Their stay at a historic bed and breakfast in Buckhannon.
  3. Connections to Buckhannon
    • Discovery that Mike’s father had once interviewed for a job at West Virginia Wesleyan College.
    • The alternate history where Mike could have grown up in Buckhannon.
  4. Exploring the Area
    • Mike’s multiple visits to Buckhannon, including day trips, coffee shops, and local attractions.
    • His week-long stay in February 2020, just before the pandemic lockdowns.
  5. West Virginia Highlights
    • Experiences with state staples like Tutors Biscuit World and pepperoni rolls.
    • Interest in West Virginia’s history, including its labor movements and unique educational traditions.
  6. Cultural Insights and Humor
    • Lighthearted debates about Appalachia pronunciation, soda vs. pop, and local rivalries.
    • Rob’s anecdotes about Buckhannon’s Golden Horseshoe Test and local traditions.
  7. Closing Thoughts
    • Mike reflects on the welcoming community and charm of Buckhannon.
    • Teaser for potential future collaborations and return visits to Raff's Brain.