When people talk about revitalizing small towns, the conversation often centers on large developments and outside investment. But in Wiggins, Mississippi, change began with a single craft — and a commitment to community.

In this episode of Matter of Fact, we go behind the reporting of the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center story “Southern Turnings carves out a place in Wiggins’ revival.” The episode explores how a small woodturning studio grew into a coffee shop, gift store and gathering space that now plays a key role in breathing new life into downtown Wiggins.

Reporter Ashlyn Joyner joins host Hilawe Tibebe to discuss how Southern Turnings evolved from a personal workshop into a community hub — drawing visitors from across Mississippi and beyond, supporting local events and helping reenergize Pine Avenue. Through the voice of owner Scott Maddox, listeners hear how creativity, persistence and local investment can reshape a rural downtown over time.

The episode also examines the challenges that come with running a small business in a rural community, from workforce shortages to pandemic disruptions, and why Maddox says civic involvement and local awareness remain essential to long-term growth.

Plus, in our What Is True? segment, Media Literacy Coordinator Walker Scott explains how local journalism helps communities verify claims about economic health and revitalization — and why reporting on small, locally owned businesses can challenge oversimplified narratives about rural decline.

At its core, this episode looks at how grassroots efforts, creative spaces and community-driven businesses can serve as catalysts for renewal — showing that meaningful change doesn’t always start with big projects, but with people willing to invest where they live.