I will be the first to admit that I had really no idea what podcasts were until about a couple months ago. Sure, I knew there was some digital audio component to them but never knew there were so many different podcasts covering such a wide range of topics. One of my friends actually got me started on listening to podcasts. She actually also makes her own podcast and loves it. I had no idea just how much goes in behind the scenes in order to get a podcast ready for listeners. You can even find companies who can help create an incredible podcast which she has found so useful! From her podcast talking about her own life to comedians taking jabs at politicians and health-focused episodes, there is a podcast for everyone – I promise. According to Entrepreneur, nearly 68 million Americans listen to podcasts on a monthly basis with 44 percent in the 18-34 years old category. As you might have guessed it, I am now one of them. Here’s a list of my favorite ones so far!
Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations
If you’re looking to dive into the meaning of life and learn from other’s experiences, this is the podcast for you. This is the type of podcast you can have playing in the background at work and still get the idea of what Oprah is talking about with her guests. My favorite part is the real-life stories from world-known personalities and community leaders that become the center of attention during the hour-long episode. It’ll shock you how much you can learn from listening about the mistakes people have made throughout their lives and what it has taught them. This podcast forces you to reflect on times you were unsure about life and how to move forward with grace and positivity – just like her guests have.
My Favorite Murder
Yes, this sounds creepy but if you’re into true crime stories that’ll blow your mind, then add this to your list. The podcast will guide listeners through all sorts of stories capturing the country. The hosts will also read stories listeners send in to them – making this an interactive and entertaining podcast that’ll keep you wanting more and more. Just don’t listen to this before going to bed.
Caliphate
This podcast follows the journey of a New York Times foreign correspondent to uncover the latest on the Islamic State and how people in those affected areas have dealt with and are still dealing with this extremist group. The documentary series truly opened my eyes to the harsh reality many journalists face while doing their job, as they put their lives at risk to truly capture what is going on outside our country. Caliphate is suspenseful, alarming and makes you think about the critical conditions many people live in.
Skimm’d From the Couch
Skimm’d From the Couch is a podcast hosted by the two founders of The Skimm, Danielle Weisberg and Carly Zakin. If you don’t know what The Skimm is, well where have you been? It’s a daily newsletter that is sent to your email every morning recapping world events and easily dissects the top news so you don’t have to spend hours looking through the Twitter feed to figure it out. Each episode of the podcast highlights a female entrepreneur and their journey to get where they are now. From their biggest struggles to what are some of the best and worst advice they’ve ever gotten, this podcast is a great reminder that we are capable of doing it all. Sometimes, it just takes time.
Needless to say, I have jumped on the podcast bandwagon. Best part? You can listen to them in the car, at the office or the gym while on the treadmill. If you’re already a part of the podcast fan club, I’m happy to join you. If not, give it a try and let me know what you think!
