ETX Shine Podcast Network Launches to Expand Local Storytelling
New podcast network will spotlight East Texas voices, stories, and conversations in 2026
ETX Bell in the beginning wanted to create a way to reach various age groups with the information and news in our communities. Our hope from the beginning was to create a a podcast network. That day is now here. ETX Hometown Media has announced the launch of ETX Shine, a new podcast network designed to expand local storytelling across East Texas.
ETX Shine will serve as the podcast production arm of the ETX Bell, offering long-form audio and video conversations that highlight news, community voices, business, faith, sports, culture, and everyday life in the region. The network is scheduled to roll out its first slate of shows in 2026, with content distributed across YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, social media platforms, and embedded on the ETX Bell website.
The idea for ETX Shine grew out of conversations with community leaders in the very beginning about getting news top people in our area. Many of those leaders expressed concern about the loss of hometown newspapers and the growing difficulty of sharing local information through social media. Several communities in the area lost their newspapers in 2018 and 2019, and recent algorithm changes have made it harder for organizations, schools, churches, and businesses to reach residents through traditional social platforms.
ETX Shine aims to be one more way to meet audiences where they are by combining short-form video content with in-depth podcast conversations. In addition to interviews and discussion-based shows, the network plans to produce documentary-style content that preserves local history and highlights stories that may not otherwise be told.
According to ETX Hometown Media, ETX Shine will also act as a content engine for the ETX Bell, extending reporting beyond the printed page and allowing stories to continue through conversation and video. Episodes and clips will often connect directly to newspaper coverage, providing additional context and community insight.
As part of the launch, ETX Shine is now seeking local podcast hosts, influencers, and interview guests interested in participating in upcoming shows. Topics will include news and current events, sports, business, marketing, faith, health, family life, culture, humor, history, and more. Community members do not need prior media experience to be considered.
Those interested in getting involved can learn more through the ETX Shine website or by contacting ETX Hometown Media directly. Additional announcements, including flagship show details and guest opportunities, will be released in the coming months.
