Keith Shortall, Maine Public Broadcasting Network Journalist Profile

Articles

'Antiques Roadshow' comes to Maine for the first time, drawing thousands

1 week ago | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

It's one of the most popular shows on PBS. Antiques Roadshow, now in its 29th season, continues to shuttle its massive field production unit all over the United States, assessing the value of artifacts and heirlooms discovered in basements, barns and attics and capturing the stories behind them. This week, for the first time, the show visited Maine. Three thousand people converged on the grounds of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay on Wednesday along with their personal treasures.
Antiques Roadshow Preview

Mar 12, 2025 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

The popular PBS program “Antiques Roadshow” is coming to Maine this summer. The long-serving executive producer of the program joins us to share some favorite past discoveries—and what to expect and how to participate when the show is taped in Maine. We’ll also hear from one of the appraisers who is often a part of the program.
The Shifting Role of Social Media

Mar 11, 2025 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

We examine the ever-changing social media landscape. A growing number of social media users are leaving certain platforms for a variety of reasons: to make a political statement, to reduce screen-time, or to preserve mental well being. Some are switching to new platforms, while others are finding new ways to use social media in their daily lives.
Musician Samuel James

Feb 21, 2025 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

Blues artist Samuel James weaves storytelling and Black history into his performances. As a musician, he’s released 7 albums, scored soundtracks, and toured internationally—performing in the Black American folk tradition. James also writes a monthly column, “Racisms” in The Bollard, and a weekly newsletter, “Banned Histories of Race in America” on Substack. His podcast, “99 Years,” explores the creation of the Whitest state in the nation.
President Biden & the Presidential Race

Jul 22, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

Amid intense pressure and turmoil among the Democratic Party, President Biden announces he is stepping aside from the presidential race, and endorsing VP Kamala Harris as the nominee. We discuss the significance of this decision, the repercussions for the Democratic ticket, as well as the impact on the Trump campaign—and on the nation.
Housing Crisis: Homeownership

Jun 26, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

A shortage of available homes and high price tags have made homeownership seem out of reach across the state. We'll discuss the historical and market forces that created this situation, and who is most affected. We'll also hear about new programs offered by the state—as well as by employers—that provide buyers some help in purchasing a home.
Your Vote 2024: Candidate Interviews

Jun 4, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

GOP candidates Ron Russell and Andrew Piantidosi join us to discuss their positions on issues, and why they are running to represent Maine’s 1st Congressional district. Each candidate will join us for half of the show. Panelists:Ron Russell, served for 30 years in the U.S. Army as an Airborne Ranger and a Special Forces qualified Green Beret. He retired in 2006 and initially worked for a small defense contractor, then helped form a small business. He moved back to Maine in June of 2021.
Maine's Cultural History

Jun 3, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

Maine has long inspired artists, writers, innovators and creative types who are drawn to the state's natural beauty and sense of place. We'll explore the cultural history of Maine, and learn about how Maine paintings, sculpture, photography, architecture and other areas have had lasting impact over the decades. Panelist:Earle Shettleworth, who was first appointed to the role in 2004; he has lectured and written extensively on Maine history and architecture
NPR's Peter Breslow

May 2, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

We talk with longtime NPR journalist, Peter Breslow, who is now retired. His new memoir—Outtakes: Stumbling Around the World for NPR— recounts his almost 40 years at the public media organization, where he covered wars, climbed Mount Everest, played underwater hockey—and also spent time producing “All Things Considered” and “Weekend Edition.”Panelist:Peter Breslow, retired senior news producer, National Public Radio; author, Outtakes: Stumbling Around the World for NPR
Maine Court Cases

Apr 30, 2024 | mainepublic.org | Keith Shortall

Which court cases in Maine’s history—both state and federal—have been memorable or significant? We’ll learn what made particular cases interesting, influential, and even, on occasion, funny. We’ll also discuss the recent Supreme Court cases making national news. Panelists:Herb Adams, journalist; adjunct professor of social science, Southern Maine Community College; former state legislatorDmitry Bam, vice dean, provost and professor of law, University of Maine School of Law