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Niche to Meet You

Niche to Meet You is a narrative investigative storytelling podcast about little-known niche interests and hobbies, and the meaning folks are finding in them. We are what happens when Mr. Rogers meets This American Life or Revisionist History.

Hosted by Leslie Eiler Thompson, Niche to Meet You isn’t just about the hobbies themselves — it’s about the people behind them. Whether it's medieval armored combat, wild turkey conservation, dog agility, or the artistry of portraying Santa, we explore what compels folks to dedicate themselves to these pursuits.

WPLN is proud to partner with Niche to Meet You. Learn more about the show on its website.

Niche To Meet You: Finding joy in a classic car’s restored radio

Leslie Thompson

May 19, 2025

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Meet Rick Blankenship, a masterful vintage car radio restorer in Mt. Juliet who keeps the classic dials turning while enabling today’s tech, too.

Filed Under: Arts, Culture & Music, WPLN News Tagged With: Auto Industry, Niche to Meet You

Niche To Meet You: Hey, Stick Nation!

WPLN Staff

April 21, 2025

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April is Earth Month, and WPLN News partner Niche to Meet You is taking a look at this annual celebration through the lens of a niche subculture built around the appreciation of … sticks. Yes, sticks.

Filed Under: Arts, Culture & Music, WPLN News Tagged With: environment, mindfulness, Niche to Meet You

Finding connection in the niche: How hobbies can save lives

WPLN Staff

March 17, 2025

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Nashville-based audio storyteller Leslie Eiler Thompson immerses herself in the little-known but deeply loved worlds of niche interests. Her project, Niche to Meet You, explores how these communities offer more than just fun — they provide a lifeline.

Filed Under: Arts, Culture & Music, WPLN News Tagged With: Niche to Meet You

Re-air: This is Nicheville

Mary Mancini

December 23, 2024

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The statistics on loneliness are shocking. The U.S. Surgeon General released a report in 2023 about the importance of social interaction to curb the loneliness and isolation epidemic, which is having startling effects on our physical health. One of the main ways we can interact with others is through our hobbies and niche interests. And […]

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: Leslie Thompson, Niche to Meet You

Your Turn to Talk: Ask the Mayor + Santas!

Mary Mancini

December 19, 2024

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Today, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell joins us to take your calls.

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: ask the mayor, Freddie O'Connell, Leslie Thompson, Niche to Meet You

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