With categories from news and science to fiction and arts, there is a podcast out there for everyone. As someone who only started actively listening to podcasts recently, I can firmly say that all it takes is one good podcast to become a frequent listener. They are great to listen to in the morning for your daily news or after classes or work to relax and maybe even laugh a little. I’ve compiled a list of my best recommendations for podcasts spanning several of the most popular categories. Happy listening!
The Daily
“The Daily,” a daily news podcast by The New York Times, covers the biggest news stories of the day. Hosted by Michael BarBaro, “The Daily” uses a mix of soundbites and interviews with journalists who are covering the story to report the news for 20-30 minutes, five days a week. This is a great podcast to start off the day with as you can listen during your morning routine or as you’re drinking your coffee.
Up First
The NPR podcast “Up First” is news for those crunched for time. With reporting and analysis of the three biggest news stories of the day in roughly 10 minutes, this podcast is perfect for a quick overview of the daily news. It’s great for people who want to stay up to date but don’t have the time to spare for a 30-minute news program.
My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstock, hosts of “My Favorite Murder” talk audiences through true murder stories as well as mini-episodes featuring stories from listeners’ hometowns. Every full episode starts with a good amount of non-murder related conversation between the hosts and then goes on to feature two stories with each host taking their turn to tell the tale of one of their favorite murders. While the conversation topics can be grisly, Kilgariff and Hardstock are charismatic and enjoyable to listen to – although a little gossipy-sounding at times. For fans of true crime, this podcast offers a multitude of stories, some of which may be unknown. For those who are a little skeptical of listening to stories of murder, but are interested enough to try, this is a great place to start.
Ologies
“Ologies” is a podcast for people who are curious. Every episode, host Alie Ward interviews an -ologist with her own questions as well as questions submitted from the audience. This podcast has covered everything from oceanology to quantum ontology. If you have an interest or a curiosity about almost anything, there is probably an episode about it. Even if the subject of an episode is one you have never heard of before, the information is fascinating. Some educational podcasts, especially those in the realm of science, can make you feel as though you’re in way over your head, but thanks to the entertaining host and knowledgeable -ologists, this podcast does a good job of keeping the listener on the same page. “Ologies” is the perfect podcast for anyone who wants to learn something new or dive deeper into a topic of interest.
The Two Princes
In the genre of fiction podcasts, “The Two Princes” is one of a kind. Following Prince Rupert as he seeks to break the curse that is destroying his kingdom and meets prince Amir, a prince from another kingdom on his own quest, “The Two Princes” is humorous and heartfelt. The voice actors are phenomenal and the storyline is full of entertaining twists while continuing to be funny and easy to fall into. This podcast is the place to start for someone not too interested in non-fiction podcasts but would like to still join the craze while enjoying a good story.