By Grace Carella ’21
We are over a year into Covid-19’s reign, and with isolation, comes a possible recipe for craziness. Zooms, Google Meets and Online meets have made up a considerable portion of our lives. Our eyes are constantly watching, but our ears… they’ve been a bit lonesome. Podcasts have always been offered through various streaming platforms and apps on the various digital play stores, but have we taken advantage of the endless possibilities? I, for one, have been addicted to podcasts lately, and have listened to hundreds of minutes since the beginning of the Pandemic.
Why podcasts? Unlike videos and scrolling through social media, podcasts only require eardrums, and give your eyes a much needed rest from the blue light of computer screens and cell phones. Here are some of my favorite podcasts that I’ve listened to, and you can find them on almost every streaming platform.
- “Life Kit” by NPR
From learning how to open a bank account, to strategizing how to be a more sustainable and environmentally conscious consumer, “Life Kit” packs valuable and unique information into their 10-45 minute episodes.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Trust Your Gut”
- “ESPN Daily” by ESPN and Pablo Torre
Wake up every morning and tune into your daily dose of sports news, player updates and game scores with ESPN and the lively Pablo Torre. With March Madness underway, Bracketology and game logistics and statistics are popular conversations in the sports world. From game projections to player interviews, every sports fan should plug into at least one of these sub 45 minute podcasts.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “2021 Bracketology with Jay Bilas”
- “Crime Junkie” by audiochuck
Hello to all of my True Crime fans! This is the podcast that you have been waiting to stumble upon. With topics varying from unsolved murders, to the science behind forensic studies, all is discussed and dissected in the glorious 45- 90 minute episodes.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “The “Lonely Hearts” Killers”
- “Stuff You Should Know” by iHeartRadio
I cannot rave enough about this podcast. Topics range far and wide, and offer bad jokes, personal stories, and mini in-podcast games. All around 60 minutes long, “Stuff You Should Know” never fails to entertain.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “How Bruce Lee Worked”
- “The Journal” by The Wall Street Journal and Gimlet
Some of the most important news and stories, all told through the lens of business. With new episodes almost daily, immerse yourself in the daily news, but approach it from a new perspective. These short and sweet 20 minute podcast episodes are a great way to start your mornings, or wind down at night.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Amazon After Bezos”
- “Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard” by Armchair Umbrella
If you love people, hearing other’s stories, or just want some background noise, search no more. Settle in for a fun and intimate time with Dax and his guests, as they dive into personal stories, share victories, and relive losses. We all are looking for some human connections and new voices, so why not give this podcast a shot?
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Lenore Skenazy”
- “You Heard me Write” by Spotify Studios
30 writers take part in a multimedia and multi part project, but the twist is that they know nothing about one another. When all of the pieces are completed, join these artists in a roundtable discussion as they share their final works, discuss their creative process, and learn more about one another.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Kaleidoscope of the Heart”
- “The Daily Stoic” by Daily Stoic
We all have been taught lessons in life, either from parents, friends, teachers or coaches, but where did they learn their lessons from? Stoic thinkers challenge the natural world, and constantly craft ideas on how to improve not only themselves, but those around them. Learn about historic thinkers, hear from famous writers, and motivate yourself to get up, and get out during these 2-120 minute episodes!
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Turning Chaos into Success”
- “Congratulation with Chris D’Elia” by Chris D’Elia
If you have ever had a conversation with me, you know that you will hear at least six unrelated stories before I get to the point. If you’re sick of hearing my voice, why not listen to Chris D’Elia’s instead! Follow Chris as he talks to himself alone in his house about what is going on in his life and the world, and get a good ab workout in at the same time!
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “The Turtleneck Episode”
- “Past Gas by Donut Media” by Studio71
This one is for all of my car lovers out there! Listen in as Donut Media and their hosts take you back in time, and fill your noggins with the history of cars, the automobile industry and the successes and failures of your favorite makes and models. Learn about domestic cars, the evolution of the industry, and even travel to Japan to learn about the ever growing and evolving car markets.
Grace’s Episode Recommendation: “Why The 90’s Was the Decade of SuperCars”
Photo Credit: https://www.radio.com/podcasts/crime-junkie-21201
