Blether Together Podcast

In no more than 350 words, tell us why you think you/your work should win this award. You may wish to consider factors such as what inspired you, the challenges involved, the impact of the output, and what makes your work stand out?

Blether Together deserves to win the Good News Award because it has created a warm, honest and engaging platform for sharing positive stories from rural Scotland. Produced by the charity Farmstrong Scotland and hosted by Sarah Stephen, the monthly podcast shines a light on the people behind Scottish farming and crofting, telling stories that are rarely heard in mainstream media. As a charity dedicated to improving the physical, mental and social wellbeing of those working in agriculture, Farmstrong uses Blether Together to celebrate the resilience, humour and generosity that exists across rural communities. Rather than focusing solely on the pressures facing the sector, it creates space for conversations about friendship, family, purpose, business and community. Each episode introduces listeners to farmers, crofters, rural business owners and industry voices who speak openly about their experiences and the practical steps they take to look after themselves and those around them. These honest conversations help reduce stigma around mental health, encourage people to seek support and remind listeners that looking after themselves is part of farming well. The podcast has become one of Farmstrong's most effective ways of reaching the farming community. Alongside more than 4,100 people engaging directly through Farmstrong events and over 102,000 website visits, Blether Together has extended the charity's reach far beyond those attending activities in person. With over 13,000 downloads since inception. Blether Together has helped change perceptions of rural Scotland by presenting authentic, positive stories that reflect the diversity, humour and resilience of farming life. Through thoughtful, long-form conversations, it goes beyond headlines to explore the realities of rural life with warmth and optimism. At a time when farming is often portrayed through crisis and challenge, Blether Together offers something different. It celebrates the people at the heart of rural Scotland, inspires conversations that strengthen communities and demonstrates that good news stories can also help improve lives. It is original, uplifting and continues to give a voice to the people who make Scotland's rural communities such remarkable places.