With the rise of television, many anticipated the death of the popularity of radio. Instead, it went digital. Every day, millions of Americans listen to their favorite podcasts. There are thousands of podcasts out there, with their own quirks and personalities. More than likely, there are several that are perfect for you.
How Do You Listen to a Podcast?
The most straightforward way to listen to a podcast is to visit the website directly. When there, find the episode that interests you, and click the play button. You can also download the episode from that site and listen to it on your computer desktop.
If you have a smartphone, you have even more options. Much like on a computer, you can go right to the podcast’s website and stream the podcast directly. The most popular option, though, is using a mobile application available through the App Store on Apple or the Play Store on Android. These apps make it easy for you to find, subscribe, and download the podcasts of your choice.
Now that you know how to tune in, it’s time to find the podcast for you. Luckily, we’ve narrowed down a few that are great starting places for the budding podcast fan!
Anything on the HowStuffWorks Network
Our first entry isn’t so much a singular podcast as it is a group of them. The podcast in the HowStuffWorks network are all worth your time. Interested in everyday science? Check out BrainStuff. How about food and cooking? Anney and Lauren from FoodStuff would be happy to have you!
The podcasts are well produced, and the networks employ hosts that are entertaining and interested in the topics. The two most popular podcasts from the network are Stuff You Should Know and Stuff You Missed in History Class. If you’re going to start with a HowStuffWorks podcast, try one of these two.
If you’re going to start with a HowStuffWorks podcast, try Stuff You Should Know and Stuff You Missed in History Class.
Stuff You Should Know hosts Josh and Chuck talk about nearly any topic you could think of. In the past, they’ve discussed how beer works and Schoolhouse Rock. They pull this off with a laid-back, fun-loving attitude. This has made Stuff You Should Know the network’s flagship podcast and a great place to begin your podcasting journey.
Stuff You Missed in History Class investigates the sections of history that your class may have skipped over or taught wrong. Tracy and Holly discuss any kind of history from Abbott and Costello to the Maccabean Revolt. They always keep it informative, light, and fun.
NPR and This American Life
Many of you have heard of Ira Glass. He has been a radio staple for three decades, more than 20 of those years as the host of This American Life. In that time, the program has won numerous awards and continues to draw millions of listeners.
Ira Glass’s long-running series creates an entertaining and thought-provoking picture as each episode features several acts with guests, music, and interviews.
Each week, Glass investigates a specific topic by telling the stories of those involved. He creates an entertaining and thought-provoking picture as each episode features several acts with guests, music, and interviews. If you want to understand “this American life” more deeply, this is the podcast for you.
More Ear Candy
Freakonomics Radio is a podcast based on the bestselling 2005 book. Launched in 2010, it’s grown into one of the go-to podcasts both online and on the radio. The show takes complex subjects and breaks them down into understandable nuggets, while putting an interesting spin on politics, pop culture, and economics.
If you’re looking for a podcast with history, look no further than Lux Radio Theater. That’s right, the popular radio show that ran from 1934-1955 is now a podcast. The podcast replays the show’s episodes, which pair the age’s hottest stage shows with the biggest stars. Each episode featured stars like John Wayne, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, or Judy Garland. If you’re a fan of classic Hollywood, you won’t want to miss this podcast.
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Whether you’re traveling or at home, podcasts are a great way to kill boredom and keep your mind active. If you’re ready to dive deeper into podcasts, check out the links in Further Reading below.
Further Reading
AgeUK — A beginner’s guide to podcasts for older people
PodTrac — Top Podcasts
Time — The 50 Best Podcasts Right Now
