Podcasts, the latest evolution of radio, offer listeners the ability to access free, downloadable episodes on pretty much every topic imaginable. They’re the perfect way to be entertained and even educated while walking to class, driving, exercising or doing homework. Not sure where to start with the wide world of podcasts? Here are seven of my recommendations—choose any episode and I bet you’ll be hooked!
Radiolab: Listen to this podcast if you’re curious about the natural world around you, but not necessarily a Bio Chem major. No science knowledge required, just sit back and enjoy fascinating stories on topics ranging from social psychology to the nuclear chain of command.
Every Little Thing: Have you ever had a question that is too specific to Google? That’s where Every Little Thing’s question hotline steps in—they research and answer bizarre listener questions such as, how old is Winnie the Pooh? Or is your speed really being monitored by aircraft when you’re driving? Find out the answers to these questions and more on Every Little Thing.
This American Life: A radio classic, This American Life is the perfect place to start if you’re new to podcasts. The subject matter varies widely every week, but you’re sure to learn something new whenever you listen.
The Daily: Interested in keeping up on current events but not sure where to start? Try The Daily, The New York Times’ short podcast (think 15-20 minutes), released every weekday morning. It’ll give you a quick summary of the most important headlines—study up now for the next time your family wants to talk about politics.
Reply All: This podcast examines the weirdest corners of the internet, specifically the portions that overlap with real life. You’ll learn about BitCoin, Pepe the Frog’s surprising evolution from internet meme to racist symbol, and the history of the pop-up ad. One of the hosts even flies to India to track down an annoying telephone scammer—what more could you want from podcast?
Science Vs: Confused about highly-debated subjects such as fracking, gun control or chiropractors? The Science Vs podcast pits fads and opinions against hard facts and science, giving you an interesting overview of some of today’s most complicated issues.
On Being: Krista Tippett, who is speaking at Point Loma’s 2018 Writer’s Symposium by the Sea, hosts an interview style podcast that dives deep into the lives of fascinating people, such as author Brene Brown and Kevin Kelly, the co-founder of WIRED. This Peabody award-winning show is sure to provoke thought and personal breakthroughs.
Brand new to podcasts? You can listen to all of these shows for free using the Apple Podcast app, or on other free platforms such as Overcast, Castro or Spotify.
Katie Kepler