Before 2020, the only podcasts I listened to were focused on true crime. However, once the pandemic hit, the last thing I needed was more content that was depressing or upsetting. Desperately in need of a laugh, I turned to podcasts more focused on pop culture topics, everything from trashy reality TV to celebrity gossip. Although we’re in a new year and the pandemic is (hopefully) on its way to being over, I’m still loving all of the lighter podcasts I discovered in the darkness of last year. Here are some of my favorites (and descriptions from iTunes, to help you guys see if they’re up your alley!).
Keep it! Each week, Ira Madison III, Louis Virtel, and Aida Osman are joined by comedians, journalists, actors, musicians, activists, politicians and more to discuss the latest ways pop culture and entertainment are intersecting with politics and society. Expect accents (is that Catherine Deneuve?!), Oscars trivia, and endless amounts of shade. New episodes drop every Wednesday.
Switched on Pop. Best Arts & Culture podcast Webby 2020 winner about the making and meaning of popular music. Musicologist Nate Sloan & songwriter Charlie Harding pull back the curtain on how pop hits work magic on our ears & our culture. From Vulture and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Ringer Dish. Ringer Dish is the place for all things celebrity. From major celebrity moments like the Met Gala and the Oscars, to the weird habits of the stars you love, to refreshers on the biggest tabloid stories from the last twenty years, Ringer Dish has all the vital details. On Mondays, join a rotating cast of Ringer staffers for deep dives on famous families like the Richies or to learn more about your favorite internet boyfriend (looking at you, Zac Efron). On Wednesdays, catch ‘Jam Session’ with Juliet Litman and Amanda Dobbins for royal family rumors, celebrity real estate, and industry analysis. And on Fridays, listen to ‘Tea Time’ with Liz Kelly, Kate Halliwell, and Amelia Wedemeyer for lightning-fast coverage of pressing celebrity news and gossip.
Everything Iconic with Danny Pellegrino. Everything Iconic with Danny Pellegrino breaks down reality TV and iconic pop culture moments. Special guests deep dive with Danny into the topics we all care about– Real Housewives, romantic comedies, pop music, actresses over 50, and whatever else he wants to talk about.
Two Judgey Girls. Courtney & Mary reside in LA and the Bay, respectively. Though they live 400 miles from each other, their love for reality TV and pop culture never lets the distance get in the way. Join them weekly to discuss the latest shows and gossip with “Two Judgey Girls”.
