Nine Podcasts to Keep You Informed & Inspired

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Like most of the developed world, I listened to the Serial podcast last fall and became obsessed with the story, checking my phone virtually every 10 minutes on Thursday mornings in anticipation of the next episode being released. While I anxiously await the next season (coming sometime in Fall of this year), I’ve discovered a handful of other podcasts that have kept my commutes and desk time entertaining and enlightening. Here are some of my favorites:

For the Parent

Mom & Dad Are Fighting, Slate’s Parenting Podcast – Slate editors Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois review and debate the latest parenting news. You probably won’t want to listen to this one when the kids are within earshot, but it’s a fun, refreshing take on parenting trends and news. Every week, the hosts share their parenting wins and fails and it’s a good reminder that we’re all just doing the best we can. New episodes are released every other week.

The Longest Shortest Time – Hosted by Hillary Frank, this podcast focuses on one (typically unusual) parenting story with each episode. Think horror stories about pumping at work, a broadway makeup artist that takes her toddler on the road, or bringing up baby in a sorority house. New episodes are released sporadically, but always give you something to think about.

For the Creative

Elise Gets Crafty – blogger/mom/crafter Elise Blaha Cripe talks about the business side of being a creative entrepreneur: building creative routines, dealing with stress/burnout, and tons of other topics. Her episode on Developing a Pinterest Strategy resulted in me spending four hours completely overhauling my Pinterest boards. Proceed with caution.

Magic Lessons with Elizabeth Gilbert – Everyone knows the author of Eat Pray Love. This new podcast debuted in July of this year. Her mission is to is to offer “road maps for the path to creativity, the extra nudge you need when you’re feeling stuck.” She talks to both struggling creatives and guest experts who offer advice and inspiration.

For the Pop Culturist

Slate’s Culture Gabfest – Three Slate culture critics debate the week in culture. Everything from reviewing Magic Mike XXL and Inside Out to discussing the perfect summer “strut” song that fills you with confidence and gives you swagger – something all moms need once in a while.

Trends Like These – Friends Travis McElroy and Brent Black discuss the what’s trending this week: from selfie sticks to Kylie Jenner’s cornrows. Another one you probably won’t listen to with the kiddos around, but I find myself laughing out loud at the conversation most weeks.

For the Detective

Undisclosed, The State v. Adnan Syed – If you loved Serial, you’ll want to listen to this follow up podcast hosted by attorneys Rabia Chaudry, Susan Simpson, and Colin Miller. They dig deeper into the case and discuss new evidence that has come out since Serial aired. If you found yourself yelling questions at your podcast app while listening to Serial, this one is for you. Due to the subject matter, another one you won’t want to put on while the kids are nearby.

For When the Kids are Around

Science Friday – if you listen to public radio, you’ve probably heard this weekly discussion on the latest news in science, technology, health, and the environment hosted by Ira Flatow. A recent episode discussed video games as teaching tools and ice cream. If that doesn’t get your kids thinking science is cool, what will?

How to Do Everything – Another podcast from NPR that gives a humorous take on solving life’s everyday questions. Do you want to learn to enjoy baseball? Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor has some great advice.

All of these podcasts are available free through the itunes podcast app. Do you have any podcasts you love to listen to?

4 COMMENTS

  1. Hey Janet, I am also completely addicted to Serial. We will have to chat about the case next time we see each other!

    I am excited to check out some of these other podcasts. Thanks for this list

    • Thank you, Angela! I am really looking forward to the next season of Serial, but I wonder if it could possibly be as compelling as Adnan Syed’s case? That would be lightning striking twice, right?

  2. I have been loving “Sorta Awesome” lately. It’s a show that discusses a variety of interesting and awesome things from brain types to how to promote peace in your home.

    • Ooo! I’ll have to add that one to my list. I know I could use some more peace at home. Thanks, Christy!

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