Visit Mesa, the destination marketing organization for Arizona's third-largest city, launched its new podcast entitled City Limitless® – The Podcast. The first episode features Troy Kotsur, who is born and raised in Mesa, and is the first Deaf male actor to win an Academy Award.

The interview-style, audio- and video-recorded podcast focuses on insightful discussions and entertaining stories that define Mesa's city boundaries and beyond. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of the City Limitless experience – arts, culture, events, entertainment, food, outdoor adventure and more. The podcast is the latest venture by Visit Mesa to further enhance the destination's storytelling platforms.

“We are thrilled to launch this podcast to share with our growing audiences the captivating stories that highlight the incredible talents and diverse backgrounds of the people and places within our region,” said Visit Mesa President and CEO Marc Garcia. “These stories exemplify what it means to live life limitless and inspire others to experience the feeling that anything is possible with a visit to Mesa City Limitless."

Episode one features the inspiring story of Troy Kotsur who grew up in Mesa, Arizona, and faced a challenge not many encounter: navigating life as a Deaf individual. He turned this hurdle into a springboard, leading him to become the first Deaf male actor to win an Academy Award for his supporting role in the film “CODA.” Kotsur returned to Mesa for the screening of his heartfelt short film, “To My Father,” at the 2023 Mesa Film Festival, which depicts his journey to winning the Oscar and his father's inspiring influence on him, despite a tragic accident. The interview explores Kotsur's experience growing up Deaf, the profound impact of his father losing the ability to sign with him and his ascent to the ultimate level of success in Hollywood.

“It's extremely special screening this film in my hometown,” said Troy Kotsur in the first episode of City Limitless – The Podcast. “I am here to celebrate, and there are so many community members that know about my history and my father's history. This is where I grew up.”

Future episodes will spotlight Arizona Film and Digital Media Director Mathew Earl Jones, Professional Bull Riding World Finalist Judd Moritson, coverage of the first TikTok music event “In the Mix” and more.

City Limitless – The Podcast is available on all major podcast streaming services, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as Visit Mesa's YouTube channel and website.

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Learn more about Visit Mesa and its mission to promote the value and vitality of Mesa's visitor economy to create a better community at VisitMesa.com.

CONTACTS:

Zoey Shircel, Communications Manager, Visit Mesa, zoey@visitmesa.com

Kelly Bassett, Vice President, Communications, Visit Mesa, Kelly@visitmesa.com