Studs and John briefly discuss coal mining in Appalachia, specifically Blackey, Kentucky. Includes an interview with Joe Begley a coal miner from Blackey.

Blackey, Kentucky resident, Joe Begley, is all for deep mining and totally against strip mining. Rattlesnakes, explained Begley, are those individuals who come in from other states to destroy the land with their strip mining. Begley also talks about the poor and illiterate of Appalachia, some of whom will get Black lung disease from the coal mines.

Jean Ritchie discusses her life, music, experiences, and career. She also discusses folk music. Includes songs performed by Jean Ritchie including "Shady Grove", "None But One", "Sweet Sound in the Wind", "Riddle Song" (sung with Oscar Brand), "See That Rainbow Shine", "Black Waters" (sung with Janis Ian), "Now is the Love of the Day", "Little Lonesome Dove", "Barbry Allen", "Brightest and Best", and "Now Is The Cool of the Day".

Mr. Ridgeway and Studs talk about the energy crisis and the systematic pillaging of the land of the United States by the companies involved in harvesting natural resources. Includes: Two excerpts presented of Joe Begley of Blackey, KY talking about the state of things in Appalachia as gas companies and strip mine operators come in to destroy the land.