BETHEL — Introducing Bethel’s local podcast called, Mahoosuc Messenger, where Liz Repetto and Becca Hoskins share Western Maine weekly adventure events, activities, and opportunities happening in the region.

“We’re providing information about where you can donate money, time, goods, or places where you can connect, make friends, get to know the community better. Or just bring your family to have fun,” explains Hoskins.

“The things we like to talk about or are planning to talk about more are like family-friendly opportunities, places you can bring your kids. I think we’re trying to focus on accessibility, as well. So like a range of things that are free or inexpensive or, the occasional business sale.”

The idea came about one evening in September at The Pollinator Garden where it was encouraged to share ideas for feedback. That’s when Repetto brought up an idea of a local radio station, inspired by WRGY in Rangeley. Hoskins asked the group who listens the radio and of the 10 people there, four people put their hand up. Hoskins shared her idea of wanting to start a podcast, glancing across at Repetto.

“Yes!” exclaimed Repetto.

And so the 10 minute Mahoosuc Messenger Podcast idea was born.

“I’m currently editing Episode Two,” says Hoskins. “So right now there are things that we want that we are talking about in the future, but I think for right now our priority is proof of concept. Can we pull it off for a month? Two months?”

That’s not to say their website isn’t working. On their first day they had more than 100 listeners. In addition, Rangeley Public Radio requested to play their first episode three times that Friday, and throughout the weekend, complimenting the duo on their twist on local news.

“Ernie, the part-time manager at WRGY community radio in Rangeley, was our inspiration and we reached out to him for advice early on,” says Repetto. “Now we communicate regularly and consider him our mentor. He helps us immensely!”

Both Repetto and Hoskins started the podcast because they wanted to give back to the community.

Originally from Salem, Mass, Hoskins says, “I was invited to have to do my internship for my graduate program at the Mahoosuc Land Trust, here in Bethel, and it was meant to be a 10-week internship. And a year and a half later, I’m still here,” she laughs.

“I found right away that this was a community that was very special. Because of how invested so many locals are in supporting one another … I think this is a this is a town where if you ask for help, you’ll get 20 people trying to help you. And so it feels it would it would be selfish to do anything but try to give back.”

Check out the 10-minute podcast here: https://mahoosucmessengerpodcast.com/ as well as on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. You can email the duo at: mahoosucmessenger@gmail.com if you have any ideas/would like to hear anything or have events you would like them to include.

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