About this episode

This episode discusses an initiative in Portland aimed at connecting youth with the fishing industry.

The other morning on my walk down Commercial Street here in Portland, I was watching the lobster boats unload at the wharf. Diesels were rumbling and seagulls circling, hoping for a morning snack. A busy working harbor before much of the city is awake. A school bus rolled past me with kids’ faces pressed to the windows. A few of them looked out at the fishing boats like it was a totally new sight – and for some – it was. Some of the kids live no more than a few minutes from the harbor. But odds are that many of them have never been on a boat. Never been on the water. Not because they didn't want to, but because they never had the opportunity. Meanwhile, the fishing industry that built this state is in danger of aging out. Including the lobster industry . Last fall, in 2025, Maine lost Virginia “Ginny” Oliver, better known as the lobster lady. She was 101 years young. Ginny had started hauling traps when she was just eight years old. The New Times even did an article on her long career, along with Public Radio and countless magazines and newspapers. She was still lobstering up until the day she passed. Today's episode is all about an organization here in Portland that is trying to…

People in this episode

Host: Mark Winkworth

Guests: Ben Coniff, Miranda Shin

Topics covered

• fishing industry
• youth engagement
• lobster boats
• career opportunities
• community initiatives

Keywords

• lobster industry
• fishing boats
• youth programs
• community engagement
• Maine fishing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lift All Boats

Places: Portland, Maine

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