6 Podcast Picks

I feel like I am revealing my inner nerd writing this post, but I can no longer deny that I have become totally obsessed with podcasts over the last few months. One of my friends introduced me to Serial, the crime podcast with a cult following (download it here), and while I wait for #SerialSeason2 to begin, I've discovered a few other great podcasts.

I just love listening to podcasts when I'm cooking, getting ready for the day, working out, driving or just want to relax. I find them bizarrely relaxing and so informative.

Here are my top picks:

ONE // Invisibilia

Download it here.

I don't love that this podcast has been dubbed "the new Serial" because it is almost impossible to compare given the differing structures of the podcasts. Each Invisibilia episode explores an unseen force shaping the world today (i.e. expectations, emotions, logic, fear) and each segment stands on its own (unlike Serial). Definitely an intriguing podcast filled with the best kind of little-known facts I love collecting.

TWO // NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour

Download it here.

This is the perfect listen for people like me who don't get too involved in pop culture. I'm not great about keeping up with TV shows, movies or music, so I always feel informed when I listen to this podcast. Basically, each episode features a group of super-intelligent people discussing the latest news in popular culture, which can get surprisingly rowdy at times.

THREE // This American Life

Download it here.

I don't have too much to say about this classic other than that it is the podcast to begin and end all podcasts. This American Life has been around forever (there are over 400 episodes!) and gives an unparalleled glimpse of what it means to be, well, American in every sense of the word and region of the country.

FOUR // 99% Invisible

Download it here.

For any art history, architecture or design aficionados out there, this is for you. 99% Invisible covers architectural design decisions that are so basic we don't even notice them. This has definitely led me to view structures in a different, more appreciative way.

FIVE // Under the Influence from CBC Radio

Download it here.

The. Best. This podcast is centered around how marketing and advertising influence consumers. Under the Influence is completely fascinating, terrifying and eye-opening. The extent of subliminal messaging that consumers experience on a day-to-day basis definitely shocked me.

SIX // Upvoted by Reddit

Download it here.

Upvoted has gotten a lot of attention recently for its coverage of Reddit's most popular topics. The writers of this podcast share the stories of many people whose life has been changed by various Reddit threads— including the tales of a criminal-turned-artist, Jeopardy-winner-turned-screenwriter and gamer-turned-musician. It is unexpectedly inspiring and endlessly interesting.

Recommendations? Send them my way!

xoxo,

Ashley