My research lies at the intersection of folklore studies, rhetorical studies, and performance studies. In academic and public sector work I advocate a critical folklore studies as a means to examine and to redress social injustice. In so doing I draw upon traditions of rhetorical criticism and social theory, especially to critique anti-democratic behavior and to advance democratic modes of living with others.

Working at these intersections, my research focuses on the constitutive nature of expressive culture. I have a longstanding interest in the ways that comedic performances address, uphold, and criticize social and political anxieties. Occasionally I investigate myths of rhetoric in classical antiquity in order to include voices and concepts excluded from the rhetorical tradition. Much of my current research focuses on the historical and contemporary folklore of New England, including its relation to cultural heritage tourism.

I have published in such journals as the Journal of Folklore Research, Folklore, Journal of American Folklore, Cultural Analysis, Quarterly Journal of Speech, Rhetoric Society Quarterly, Journal of American Culture, Supernatural Studies, Horror Studies, Comedy Studies, Critical Studies in Media Communication, Communication and Critical Cultural Studies, and Communication Education.