Inspired by NPR’s “This American Life,” a new radio program called “Athenia” will offer a localized spin on storytelling. Initially envisioned as an online-only podcast with radio broadcasting as a long-term goal, creators Katie Andrews, Nicholas Mallis and Adhiti Bandlamudi were thrilled when WUGA program director Chris Shupe took interest in airing their project right off the bat. This week’s pilot episode, “Hey, Stranger,” will share the narratives of storytellers David Noah and Chris Young, comedian Jake Brannon and student KC Shornima. Once eight full episodes are finalized in April or May, “Athenia” will return to the airwaves as a weekly program. For listeners who miss the live broadcast, the show will be available on radioathenia.com.

7 p.m. · FREE! · radioathenia.com