Old Gods of Appalachia - Episode 82: "Cold Call" Summary

Release Date: May 22, 2025
Written by: Kim Collins
Performed by: Steve Schell
Music by: Brother Landon Blood and Brother John Charles Dwyer

Introduction

In Episode 82, titled "Cold Call," of the horror-anthology podcast Old Gods of Appalachia, listeners are plunged into a chilling narrative that intertwines family legacy, corporate greed, and supernatural undertones set against the backdrop of central Appalachia's enigmatic landscapes.

Setting the Scene

The story centers around Chip Collins, a resident of Hazell County, Appalachia, whose family owns a long-standing piece of land that houses a sacred family cemetery. The tranquility of Chip's life is disrupted when a representative from the Cumberland Valley Authority (CVA), Vincent Albright, arrives with veiled intentions to acquire the Collins family's property.

The Intrusion

[00:00] The episode begins with Steve Schell addressing listeners about transitioning their support from Patreon to their new subscription service, "The Holler." However, this segment swiftly leads into the main narrative.

[03:31] The horror unfolds as Chip and his friend Gary Jesse encounter Vincent Albright in the woods near Chaplain's Creek. Albright's unnaturally polished appearance and disingenuous demeanor hint at something sinister beneath the surface. Chip narrates the tense exchange:

"His teeth were sharp and unnaturally white, his eyes glacial. It was like staring into a void." (05:15)

Albright introduces himself as a representative of the CVA, expressing a casual interest in discussing Chip's land, which immediately raises red flags given the Collins family's longstanding ownership and the land's significance.

Unsettling Discoveries

Later that day, Chip discovers that Chaplain's Creek, a vital water source on his property, is tainted with a mysterious black sludge, killing aquatic life and emitting a foul odor. This unnatural contamination suggests a deliberate act, possibly linked to the CVA's attempts to seize the land.

"What the hell was that all about?" (11:38) — Chip expresses his frustration and suspicion towards the CVA's motives.

The contamination not only threatens the environment but also disrupts Chip's daily life, from affecting his fishing plans to causing concern for his family's well-being.

Rising Tensions

As days pass, Chip's initial encounter with Albright fades from immediate memory amid daily struggles—car troubles, vet visits, and family obligations. However, the underlying tension remains unresolved until a month later when Albright resurfaces at Chip's doorstep with renewed vigor.

[28:04] The return of Albright marks a significant escalation. His persistence becomes more menacing as he asserts:

"I am very good at my job. I'm a people person. I'm a closer. I secure deals for my employer that no one else could." (28:25)

Chip, now wary and determined to protect his family's legacy, confronts Albright with defiance:

"For starters, you can get the hell off my porch." (28:45)

This confrontation underscores the escalating conflict between individual legacy and corporate encroachment, a recurring theme in the anthology.

Supernatural Undertones

Throughout the episode, subtle supernatural elements hint at deeper, darker forces at play. The eerie disturbances at Chaplain's Creek and Albright's unsettling presence suggest that the land holds ancient secrets, possibly tied to the "Old Gods" that the podcast's title references.

Climactic Encounter

The episode culminates in a tense standoff between Chip and Albright. Despite Chip's resistance, Albright's resolve remains unshaken, hinting at a battle that extends beyond mere land acquisition. The narrative leaves listeners on edge, anticipating further developments and the uncovering of the land's mystical properties.

Conclusion and Foreshadowing

As the episode draws to a close, Steve Schell teases future developments and upcoming live shows, maintaining engagement with the audience. The unresolved tension between Chip and Albright sets the stage for subsequent episodes, promising deeper exploration into the dark forces threatening Appalachia.

Notable Quotes

• "When the walls close in and the light gets swallowed and there ain't no place that feels like home..." (10:26) — Brother Landon Blood sets a haunting mood with lyrical reflections on isolation and fear.

• "I think it's time for that chat at Chip's side." (28:15) — Albright's ominous declaration underscores his unwavering intent.

• "Transactions like this should be as painless as possible. I really believe that. But some people, people like you, Rog, insist on being pains." (28:35) — Albright's dismissive attitude towards Chip's resistance highlights the growing threat.

Themes and Insights

"Cold Call" delves into themes of resilience against corruption, the sanctity of family legacy, and the encroachment of modern corporate forces into sacred lands. The narrative cleverly blends real-world issues with supernatural horror, creating a compelling tale that resonates with listeners familiar with the struggles of preserving heritage against external pressures.

Final Thoughts

Episode 82 of Old Gods of Appalachia masterfully intertwines suspense, horror, and poignant social commentary. As Chip Collins stands firm against the CVA's insidious attempts to claim his family's land, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next installment in this gripping anthology.

For more stories like "Cold Call" and to support the podcast, visit www.oldgodsofappalachia.com/theholler.