WPR Hires New Rural-communities Reporter

Photo courtesy of Wisconsin Public Radio.

Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) has selected Robert Mentzer as its new rural-communities reporter, and he’ll begin work on April 22. Based in Wausau, he’ll focus on the challenges, opportunities and life in the state’s rural communities and small cities, and he’ll cover breaking news and regional stories of statewide importance in north-central Wisconsin.

“We are thrilled to have Rob on board,” said News Director Noah Ovshinsky. “His deep knowledge of the region and experience covering rural Wisconsin will provide great context for listeners across the state.”

Mentzer is already a familiar WPR voice as a frequent guest on the Ideas Network’s Central Time. He’s been a journalist in Wausau and launched the podcast This is Normal – a reporting series on youth mental health. 

Mentzer succeeds Glen Moberg following Moberg’s retirement in February after 15 years of reporting from Wausau.