Have you been listening to any great podcasts lately?
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Around midweek, I often find my inspiration fading
The feeling of wanting to call up my coolest friend to ask what she's been cooking for dinner lately. Which book is tucked inside of her pool bag? How does she organize her recipes? Any ideas for an abundance of zucchini? Has she discovered any great snacking ideas while scrolling through new Instagram accounts?
And then it occurred to me. Not only do I have great friends, but some truly incredible readers as well(!)
So I thought it would be fun to start a new series with the hope of inspiring each other. Every week, something new
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Confession: I fell in love with talk radio listening to Tom Snyder during the '90s. I'll never forget those long nights when I was a young mom finishing her math degree, working on Calculus problems with a newborn sleeping nearby. He was a friendly voice that kept me company.
So when podcasts came along, I couldn't get enough. Over the years, my list started with Dr. Laura, moved to all things NPR, and now includes a little bit of everything.
Confession: It's hard to find uninterrupted time during the day to listen. I'm not much of a multitasker, so the idea of following along with a conversation while trying desperately not to burn the eggs is sometimes too much for me. Never-the-less, high hopes abound and something talk-radio (like) .. is always on
But then
This spring, I developed a new routine. One where I purpose time during my day to go for a walk. I put on my shoes, turn on a podcast, and talk to no one for (at least) an hour. It's the single greatest boost in my day. Afterward, I'm fully restored and good for another 100,000 miles
Here are a few of the podcasts I've been tuning into:
The Tim Ferriss Show – “In this show, I deconstruct world-class performers from eclectic areas (investing, chess, pro sports, etc.), digging deep to find the tools, tactics, and tricks that listeners can use.” ~ Tim Ferriss
A few episodes to try? The Scariest Navy Seal Imaginable and What He Taught Me .. Tony Robbins on Achievement vs. Fulfillment .. Ryan Holiday Shares Useful Lessons on Workaholics Annonymous, Corporate Implosions and More
Planet Money – The economy, explained, with stories and surprises.
A few episodes to try? #784: Meeting the Russians .. #752: Chickens vs. Bald Eagles .. #770 and #771 The Day India's Money Disappeared (Parts I and II)
Balanced Bites – Everything from current topics in health and nutrition to beauty, skincare, healthy mindset, and more
A few episodes to try? #283: Sugar, Carbs, and Food Swaps .. #275: Growing a Business Without Losing Your Mind .. #266: All About Digestion – Gut Microbiome, Antacids, Probiotics .. #157: Low Carb Controversy, Quitting Cardio and Ditching Egg Whites
Invisibilia – Perfect for a day when you’re curious why it is we do the thing we do, and how we can potentially do them better
A few episodes to try? Flip the Script, .. The Secret Emotional Life of Clothes
Good Life Project – Perfect for a day you need to be reminded of your own power
A few episodes to try: The Gratitude Diaries: A Yearlong Experiment in Thanks .. Annoyed or Blessed: It's a Matter of Choice
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Revisionist History – Each week for ten weeks, Malcolm Gladwell goes back and reinterprets something from the past: an event, a person, an idea. Something overlooked. Something misunderstood.
A few episodes to try: The Road to Damascus .. A Good Walk, Spoiled .. The King of Tears
The Fat-Burning Man – After struggling with health and weight issues for years, Abel James discovered that everything he knew about health, fitness, and nutrition was wrong
A few episodes to try: How to Avoid Hidden Gluten, Autoimmune Disease, and Healing Leaky Gut .. Why We Binge on Junk (and What to Do About It)
Food Blogger Pro – A wealth of information for (not only) food bloggers
A few episodes to try: #99: Sponsored Content and Getting Paid What Your Work is Worth .. An Interview with Molly Yeh
ReplayAll – A series devoted to the culture of the web — things like bizarre Instagram accounts, quirky corners of Reddit and unlikely YouTube sensations
A few episodes to try: #19: Underdog .. #7: This Website is For Sale .. #76: Lost in a Cab
What are your go-to podcasts for a mid-day pick-me-up? I'm in need of some inspiration, and I’d love to hear!
ps: For more Midweek Inspiration: What's your signature dish? .. What funny things do you eat when you're home alone .. What to do with all of your end-of-summer tomatoes?
104 Comments
Unbossed!! Literally the only entreprenuership podcast I can listen toooo. Mixing pop-culture with business has to be the most genius way to discuss entreprenuership without feeling like you’ve heard it all before. iTunes…..thank me later.
I haven’t listened to any podcasts as of yet. But by the looks of it and after reading your post they come across as amazing. I will definitely listen to some of these. Bookmarking the page. Thank you so much for sharing it. We all need motivation and I absolutely love the idea of starting a new series.
I have never really been an avid podcast fan but will try some of your recommendations. I also need to get your motivation for walking too!
I hate to admit that I rarely ever listen to podcasts. I can’t remember the last time. Reading is more my thing. Give me an hour or so to read a few articles or start the next great book and I’m good to go. If I do start listening to podcasts, you have mentioned several that I’m interested in learning more about.
I’m a foodie at heart (like you) and love Bon Appetit’s, the Splendid Table, America’s Test Kitchen! If you haven’t yet, “The Barefoot Contessa Speaks Out,” is awesome. Ina Garten’s story of how she went from working in the White House to having her own TV show is great!
Interesting, I have been listening to some parenting podcasts. From your list, I guess I need to hit the button for Replay All to get some quick doses of quirkiness in this world.
I haven’t been listening to any podcasts lately. Food Blogger sound very interesting and will take the time to listen and check out a few more.
The thing I love most about listening to Podcasts is the ability to multi-task while listening. I see several in your lists I want to try and I’m going to save this post to refer back!
I have started getting into podcasts as well. I like the sound of the revolutionist history and planet money as they sound like podcasts I would enjoy listening to. I think on days when I feel low the gratitude podcast would help me gain perspective too x
I have never listened to a podcast before but I know there is a lot of different options out there to listen to. I think you can learn a lot from people on podcasts. I may have to try a few that you mentioned here.
Also great – Hacking Hunger by WFP USA. It shares great stories of refugees receiving aid, new innovative ways to solve global hunger (through an app even!) and more!
I have to admit I’ve never got into podcasts, they seemed to disappear of my radar for a while as well, but they seem to be back in full force of late, I might just need to check them out.
I loved listening to Serial when it came out. We listened to it all the time in my lab switching off with NPR. Recently I’ve been listening to Welcome to Night Vale. Great post though! I’m always on the lookout for interesting podcasts to start.
I have to say I have never been a podcast listener. My husband loves talk radio and podcasts but I can’t get myself into it.
Here in India I do listen to the podcast, its kind of thing,where radio jockey tells you amazing and engrossing stories…Don’t know about much people, but i totally live for it..Podcast are for me..
I haven’t heard of many of these, but I do love podcasts as well. I used to listen to music while riding the metro to work, but now it’s podcasts all day!
I was just telling myself this morning that I should start listening to podcasts! I am trying to find some good parenting and mommy ones!
Wow! I’m just learning about podcasts. The ones from Balanced Bites and Good Life Project sound just up my alley. I’ve been meaning to add a daily walk to my routine, so I just might copy you. Thank you!
I’ve never listened to podcast, most of the time during the day I’m working my 9-5 so that is really not an option but some of these really sound interesting. I do listen to NPR while driving to and from work.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who has never got into them, they seem to be a well-loved thing to listen to.
Confession: I don’t listen to podcasts. I’ve been wanting to because I want to take advantage of my commute time and learn something, but I don’t know why I just don’t start doing it…. I’m gonna challenge myself and start listening on Monday.
Thanks for tips on new podcasts. I am looking forward to giving Revisionist History, Planet Money, and ReplayAll a listen! As an information/story junkie and have about 24 podcasts in my Stitcher feed.
Some current favorites are:
Slate’s XX — and Slate’s Political Gabfest, Culture Gabfest, and Slate Money are all great, and now Trumpcast is just terrifying
Strangers — super compassionate
Reveal — quality in depth reporting
Note to Self — exploring how tech is changing our lives and the host is fantastic
The Read — sassy, smart, and pretty raw at times
99% Invisible — backstory details on all sorts of interesting things
So many good ones!!!
I’ve never listened to a podcast in my life! I just about find the time to read blogs, adding pod casts into the mix isn’t possible right now. Maybe when I have more time I will look this one up!
I love the idea of just walking and listening for an hour. I never make the time for things like that. I haven’t listened to many podcasts, but a couple of blogger friends got me addicted to Missing 411….it’s creepy but really makes you think!
WOW, I really need to up my game in this area. I never thought to even listen to any podcast , as much as I get in a funk towards the middle of the day listening to a podcast never even became a thought. My life is so busy, I really don’t know how I could even fit a podcast in, but I think I will at least try next week,
Now that the kids are starting school soon I will have some more time to enjoy some podcasts so I am always up for some suggestions. So far this week has been great for us. We are ready for a little family getaway this weekend though. Ready for some mountain air and fun!
I haven’t listened to the food blogger pro podcasts yet but now that you’ve said that I’m going to give it a try! I listen to true crime podcasts religiously!!! My favourite murder is my favourite haha. And i just started listening to super soul sundays with Oprah – AMAZING
I’m not much for listening to podcasts. I do however listen to books on tape. I do listen in the car, but I also try to make time just to relax, close my eyes and listen.. When I take a walk – I try to listen to nothing, neighbors always seem to disturb my peace.
I need some inspiration. I am in such a work rut so we are leaving for a vacation trip tomorrow
Pod casts are not my thing. But ebooks and Audiobooks are. I am big Sci-Fi fan so I have been downloading the audiobooks where possible to co-inside with my Star Wars Ebook collection.
Thanks for Sharing.
John M
im starting to listen to podcasts at work. It somehow helped me concentrate more on admin works. Thanks for providing a list! currently checking balanced bites.
I have never listened to a podcast. I am more of a jazz instrumental gal myself. I do want to get back to taking walks with my dogs and family on a regular basis.
I was actually just told to listen to Revisionist History by a lady I met at a conference in DC. I was telling her about me majoring in education(English and history) and she thought it would be a great fit. I know balances bites is about health, but do you know of any good podcasts for vegans?
I started getting into podcast since the time I was preparing for my English exam. This is so inspirational.
I have never listened podcasts but have ready many good thing about them. But after reading your post, I would surely try those referred by you. I will try out those cooking ones specially the vegetarian related stuff.
I’ve tried to get into a few podcasts before, and the only ones that managed to keep my attention were Chris Jericho’s one and a Game of Thrones one, haha.
I have to say I rarely ever listen to podcasts, but these days podcast are becoming a really popular thing. Maybe I will give it a try
I haven’t listened to podcasts in so long! I’ve been to busy with life in general. I think it’s awesome that we have shows to rely on if we need a little inspiration or a little push to get something done. I’d love to listen to your recommendations!
This is a great list of podcasts. I should probably listen to them more while I am working, definitely been wanting to check out the food blogger pro podcast.
I love podcasts. I just started listening to podcast this year and i am hooked. Thanks for the list!
I am all about motivation and positive thinking and will be checking out these podcasts. I love listening to podcasts in the evening so these will be geat for me.
I need to check out some of these podcasts. It would be perfect to listen to while I crochet. I always put on a show but get lost because I am only listening to it.
The only podcast that I have ever listened to was Serial (did that twice) and it was great. I have been looking for another one to hold my interest like that one did, so thank you for these suggestions!
To be honsest I don’t listen to a lot of podcasts. I have listened to the occasional one on game of thrones but I just haven’t enjoyed them all that much. Maybe it’s because I don’t find myself having the time and I admit to also not being much of a multitasker. That’s great you have found some good ones though.
No Such Thing as a Fish – the podcast by the researchers behind the long running UK TV show Q.I. wonderful and informative and at time very very funny. xx
I’m a great big geek. I like Matinee Heroes and The Nerdery. It’s a fun way of staying informed about all the great movies and entertainment I don’t always have time to do research on and get the inside scoop.
I am so excited to find out that Malcom Gladwell does a podcast! I love to listen to podcasts when I do laundry/clean. It makes it almost bearable!
Recently I have been finding it difficult settling in to listen to podcasts. Seems to me like I am busy round the clock these days but would consider listening to some while I take a walk like you suggested instead of listened to music. I usually listen to Dave Ramsey and Business boutique. Would be delighted to listen to the food bloggers pro episode you mentioned above I think I would be needing that ?
My main podcasts are This American Life, Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me (I was a contestant on that show once!), Radiolab, and Young House Love. I put them on when I’m doing housework – it makes chores enjoyable!
Bookmarking this for future reference, right now I have been crazy into audio books and real books. Reading and movies is what my summer is all about 🙂
I used to love podcasts when iPhones first became popular but then I forgot all about them. I’ve recently gotten into a few and fell in love with At Home With and Liz Earle’s Wellbeing. Other than those two, I usually gravitate towards sports oriented podcasts but The Fat Burning Man and Balanced Bites sound like podcasts I need to listen to.
Planet Money sounds like a fabulous podcast! Thanks so much for putting it on radar. 🙂
A podcast that’s both informative and funny, and it teaches me things like how to find interesting stories and be a good reporter. But it’s so genuine and full of great stories that average listeners would enjoy it too.
My favorite episodes are the ones with Jack Hitt, Ben Taub, and Kathryn Schulz, to name a few.
I’ve never listened to a podcast personally but I think I may have to check a few of your suggestions out. Sounds interesting.
Now don’t laugh at me but I don’t listen to Podcasts. I love to watch You Tube as I’m more of a visual person.
The timing of this post couldn’t be better! I just accepted a job with a 1 hour commute each way and will be needing these to pass the time 🙂
How did Unqualified with Anna Faris not make this list? She’s hilarious and her advice is great – I’ve loved all her guests!! Chris Pratt makes lots of appearances too!
I really loved reading this post, thank you for compiling this list! I definitely want to listen to Invisibilia, it sounds intriguing.
Dear Sugar!! Cheryl Strayed (her memoir, Wild, was made into a Reese Witherspoon movie) and Steve Almond have great radio chemistry, and they use what they call “radical empathy” when they answer letters, something we could all use in these difficult times.
i love listening to podcasts! My fave is Stuff You Should Know – super interesting, and also helps me get to sleep at night 🙂
If you aren’t listening to Pod Save America, what are you doing with your life??
Former Obama speechwriters give their take on the political happenings in America, with guest interviews at the end of each episode. It’s funny and informative and made my anti-political boyfriend actually enjoy learning about current events.
They were also able to interview Obama for the last time, and that WILL make you cry.
Also, Pod Save the World is similar in format, but Tommy talks more about foreign policy, which we all should have a basic understanding of.
I listen to Optimal Living Daily… daily. Lol. It’s great because he narrates popular blogs, so there isn’t a lot of fluff. It’s a great on in the category of advice!
The idea behind this post is so good. I agree we all need a little bit of push, a bit of inspiration every day. I haven’t been listening to any podcasts but have been reading ‘And The Mountains Echoed’. Thanks for sharing this post.
I have never really gotten into podcasts, but it is something that I have been thinking about for a while. Maybe because it’s because my daughter always takes my phone and literally have to peel it out of her hands. But I like the idea of an inspirational post each week. Here is to next. xx
Wow, you must really good in listening to these podcasts. The list looks really a lot and I admire you enjoying this. Keep up.
I have never listened to a podcast, but I do know people who love them and swear by them. They can often have such great resources and information.
I did listen to some podcasts but I guess I am a book and TV person I have to engage my eyes too. I will try some of what you’ve suggested though.
I love podcasts! My husband and I listen to them all of the time when we’re on road trips. Have you listened to Making Oprah from WBEZ? It’s pretty incredible all of the twists and turns her career has taken over the years.
I listen to podcasts all the time! What a great list because some of these I’ve never heard of before. Checking them out now.
My Hubby is a big podcast listener (topic:gaming) but I never really understood his enthusiasm towards this kind of media. I think I might not look at the opportunities in this, and the plenty of topic a podcast can cover. There is definitely something out there that’s just right for me, and maybe I’ll find it if I check the above mentioned podcasts. Let’s give it a try! 😉
The only podcast anyone needs is Suprisingly Awesome! The episodes on pigeons, broccoli, and crying are all particularly good
There as so many good ones. I’d have to include Stuff You Learned in History Class and also Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History. He’s an outstanding storyteller + huge history buff. He knows exactly when to talk about general historic events and when to zoom in to the gory and terrible details
Welcome to Nightvale is a radio show from a small town in the desert where every conspiracy theory is true. Listening in to Cecil Baldwin’s soothing voice as the town radio broadcaster just makes everything better. And remember, if you see something, say nothing.
This American Life! Can’t forget about a classic. Each week the show finds a topic and tells a number of different stories on the same theme. I’ve listened to every single episode. x
I’m a podcast listener and really fond of it, Balance Bites is one of my favorite as I love information about health and random topics, its informative, useful not only for me but as a knowledge to my family and friends too.
You know, I’ve never got into listening to podcasts. I tried to listen to some travel ones on the train, but I kept zoning out. Hubby on the other hand listens to them religiously.
You Must Remember This – A well researched narrative podcast on hollywood’s golden age. It’s so good, most other podcasts can’t compare!
Have you ever listened to Beautiful Stories From Anonymous People? A conversation between comedian Chris Gethard and an anonymous person on the phone who has a story to tell. I’m addicted! x
That’s Not Metal music podcast is essential if you have a passing interest in rock music. Hugely passionate, no bs and exceptionally well-researched specials for premium subscribers.
I love the idea of sharing different types of podcasts and though I rarely listen to them I do when I am traveling long distances
That’s some nice ideas that can help me with inspiration! I am personally more inspired by watching YouTube videos to be honest x
I think I’m the only person who doesn’t listen to podcasts. I’m going to go through your suggestions and find one I like! Thanks!
I have been looking for interesting podcasts to listen to and this post was exactly what I needed to find. Thank you for this!
Undisclosed is my favorite. I am cptivated by Adnan’s story, as millions were/are, but it was Season 2 that made me change direction in my life. I am determined to help the Joey Watkins’ of the country.
I love listening to inspiring podcasts. Sometimes it’s parenting, sometimes it’s faith, and sometimes it’s running-related. Just stuff that is encouraging and inspires 🙂
I have start listening to pod casts as well. It’s a great way to keep you entertain and informative. Thanks for sharing.
Sometimes you really do need time for yourself, away from the daily routine, just me time. I do exactly the same, I go out for a run listening to my favourite songs. However you have shared a lovely list of podcasts I will definitely check them out in my future runs.
Recently i started listening to podcast to help me learn the italian language. It is fun and very interesting 🙂
Great recommendations and definitely a great series. I don’t have any podcasts that I am currently listening to so I am grateful for your recommendations!
Never listened to podcasts mainly because i listen to classic rock & blues music and just enjoy a whole album, but always open to try something new 😀 thanks for the write up
I have to admit t hat I haven’t listened to any podcasts lately. In fact, I’ve never listened to one. I’d love to check out some though because I’ve seen some that are recommended all over the net.
My main podcasts are This American Life, Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me (I was a contestant on that show once!), Radiolab, and Young House Love. I put them on when I’m doing housework – it makes chores enjoyable!
I’m a big Gladwell fan and listened to Tom Snyder back in the day too. I love NPR and listen to quiet a few of their Podcasts. That is all I can handle these days as life is so busy and I just can’t do more… I would love to. 🙂
I’ve been getting into podcasts this year. I usually listen to them in the car on my commute to school or work. I’ve been listening to Project Rook, JenellBStewart and I was recently told to listen to Revisionist History.
99% Invisible! It’s technically a design and architecture-themed podcast, but it actually explores the “hidden” stories of all kinds of things, like the NBC theme chimes and the origin of water fountains. The episodes are short — usually 20 minutes long or less — which means there’s no fluff, but they always find fun, creative ways to produce it through music and sound effects
I tried to read podcasts before and ends up sleeping. I guess I need to try some genres and make use of it. I am new to cooking so I guess I will start with food related podcasts this time.
What a good idea! I actually walk the dogs every day but never thought to use the time to listen to something of interest. I am so not a pod cast person so will need to check out some of your suggestions to get me started.
I have actually never listened to a podcast because I never have time to do so. You will usually find me multitasking between at least 3 different things. Taking an hour off to go walking sounds like a great way to relax and make time to listen to a podcast. I would love to listen to some travel inspired ones.
One of my favorite food podcasts is Burnt Toast by the folks at Food52. Great discussion in an understandable and relatable way. I loved the one about first food jobs!
I love these podcast lists, but you guys haven’t posted one of my faves: “Humankind on Public Radio” is the podcast for the national radio show and tells some inspiring stories and tackles serious problems
I haven’t been listening to any podcast lately but I sure would love to given the list of some great ones here.
I’m a huge My Favorite Murder junkie. In fact, my boyfriend bought me tickets to the live show for Christmas of last year. It was so much fun to see them live – Karen and Georgia really are the true-crime obsessed bffs I’ve always wanted and never had. If you’re into true crime/justice, I highly recommend CBC’s Someone Knows Something. Canadian cold case investigations apparently have the kind of real compassion and care that is lacking in American cold case file shows. You don’t feel like you’re violating some poor family’s privacy, instead, you’re watching justice unfold. Love it
Want to hear one of my confessions? I’ve never listened to a PodCast before… ever! It’s something that my friends always talk about but I never really picked it up. Now, you’ve totally inspired me to do so, and I’m not just saying that to say that. I actually want to give it a go now!
I’ve been listening to the “How I Built This” podcast based on your previous recommendation, and I love it. I checked out the ones recommended in this post, and they all seem to be over an hour each! Does anyone have any recommendations for podcasts that are about 30 minutes per episode?