UK grad using two podcasts, radio show to inform and inspire those ‘making a difference’

On a typical day for 24-year-old Mario Maitland, when his nine-to-five job is over, his real passion begins.

In addition to a full time job with a rental car company, Maitland has two podcasts, “What’s Next Podcast” and “Kentucky Post-Game Show,” and co-hosts a segment on Radio Lex, “What’s Next Kentucky?”

Originally from Long Island, NY, Maitland was a Wildcats sports fan since childhood. This fandom and his brother playing basketball at Morehead State lead Maitland to attend classes at the University of Kentucky, eventually finding his passion for storytelling in a podcasting class in his final semester.

Matiland kept with the podcast and is now in year two of producing a show aiming to “connect normal individuals with inspiring people who are making a difference.”

The list of people interviewed for his podcasts include music producers, professional athletes like former UK women’s basketball star and WNBA No. 1 overall pick Rhyne Howard, entrepreneurs and more.

“I love just meeting people. I always get that thrill before I go on set, it doesn’t matter who I’m interviewing or talking with, it’s just an excitement,” Maitland said.

“I feel like everyone is making podcasts now… everybody is making content. I feel like that’s how it should be. We should continue to inspire the next generation, the next in line and put positivity out there, that’s the main thing. I think we’re headed in the right direction as long as we put something out that has an impact on other people.”

The challenges Maitland experienced while learning the ins and outs of podcasting — including editing, interviewing skills and time management — are worth the effort when he thinks about the rewards of spreading positivity and inspiring others to share their perspective.

“There’s not a lot that look like me in radio at my age. I wanted to be able to be a voice in my community,” he said. “Social media has created an opportunity for everybody to have their own voice.”

Maitland said he hopes to find sponsorship opportunities and collaborate with local businesses in the near future.

“It takes time and I’m going to be consistent with it. Something good has to come out of it,” he said.

A dream interview for Maitland would be with LeBron James or Kentucky native musical artist Jack Harlow. Maitland aspires to pursue his passion for storytelling with film in addition to hosting podcast and radio shows.

“It’s only going to make the world a better place,” Maitland said.