The Ozark Podcast Ep. 205 - Curtis Copeland - Creating the Cultural Map of the Ozarks That Upset... Ozarkers
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Why do the Ozarks mean so much to the people here and who actually gets to decide where it begins and ends?
In Part 1 of our conversation with Curtis Copeland (GIS Manager for the City of Branson and co-host of Ozark Folk Chronicles) we unpack the story behind the massive Ozarks map hanging in our studio.
What started as a commission for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival turned into a cultural lightning rod, sparking debate across state lines and igniting thousands of passionate responses online.
This episode isn’t just about geography, it’s about identity, heritage, and why people feel so fiercely protective of this place.
Curtis walks us through how he was tasked with mapping the cultural Ozarks, the committee of historians and folklorists who helped define its boundaries, and why Southern Illinois ended up inside the hashed lines.
We dive into hillbilly stereotypes, gig-making traditions, music passed down through generations, and how a single map went viral after the Ozark Mountain Daredevils shared it from Washington, D.C.
Together with...
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks
Prism Glass Co - Luxury residential glass and mirror installation
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 How did this map come to life?
14:00 Smithsonian Folklife Festival
24:00 Public's reaction to the map
34:00 Ozarkers vs. Ozarkians
38:00 Is Illinois in the Ozarks?
47:00 What Ozarkers thought of the map
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com