In a world of endless entertainment options, podcasts stand out as a captivating and versatile medium for storytelling, education, and pure enjoyment. Whether you’re seeking knowledge, laughter, or a thought-provoking escape, there’s a podcast out there waiting to enrich your listening experience. So, put on your headphones, grab a cozy spot, and prepare to be entertained, informed, and inspired by the power of podcasts.
1. “How I Built This” by NPR
NPR’s “How I Built This” stands out as a guiding light of entrepreneurial motivation. Hosted by the engaging Guy Raz, this series delves into the making of successful companies. More than a business show, “How I Built This” uncovers the personal and professional journeys behind thriving ventures. The podcast shows that starting a business is real and tough, revealing the challenges and doubts that come with chasing your dreams.
Episodes span industries and personalities, celebrating both household names and niche innovators. From failures to triumphs, “How I Built This” offers a front-row seat to the mosaic of experiences that define the entrepreneurial landscape.
2. Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
This show invites listeners into the hilarious and endearing world of the iconic comedian and talk show host. Hosted by Conan O’Brien himself, this podcast is a delightful departure from traditional interview formats. O’Brien engages in candid, offbeat conversations with a diverse array of guests, ranging from fellow comedians to Hollywood A-listers.
The show’s charm lies in O’Brien’s self-deprecating humor and genuine curiosity, creating an atmosphere where celebrity walls come down, and authentic connections are forged. The quest for friendship, though tongue-in-cheek, unveils personal stories, laughter-filled anecdotes, and unexpected revelations.
3. Smartless
This is a gem that combines humor and genuine curiosity effortlessly. Hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, the chemistry between these three Hollywood heavyweights is palpable. The premise is intriguing – each episode features a surprise guest, ensuring unscripted and spontaneous conversations. All of the hosts bring their A-game in wit and charm, making every episode a delightful rollercoaster of laughs.
The camaraderie often spills into insightful discussions, creating a perfect balance between comedy and substance. This element of surprise keeps the listener engaged, and the range of guests, from actors to astronauts, adds an exciting unpredictability.
4. Stuff You Should Know
This podcast by iHeartRadio is a powerhouse that transforms learning into a captivating adventure. Hosted by Josh and Chuck, this podcast excels in breaking down complex topics into bite-sized, engaging episodes. The duo’s chemistry is infectious, creating an atmosphere where curiosity thrives. Each episode unfolds like a mini educational journey, offering a deep dive into subjects ranging from history and science to pop culture. The hosts’ conversational style makes even the most intricate subjects accessible, ensuring a blend of entertainment and enlightenment.
The extensive range of topics caters to diverse interests, ensuring there’s always something intriguing on the horizon. With a perfect blend of humor, research, and companionship, “Stuff You Should Know” is a must-listen for those who crave both knowledge and entertainment in a compact, digestible format.
Where to Find These?
Amazon Music
Yes, this app has millions and millions of songs, but more importantly, it has 15 million podcast episodes. You’ll find podcasts that range from comedy and news to educational and politics. This is one of the best podcast apps out there. All of the podcasts mentioned on this list are available on this app, along with plenty of others. But Amazon Music is not just about the podcasts. You get many features like unlimited downloads and skips, ad free music playback, exciting playlists, and more.
This music service comes as a part of the Amazon Prime membership. So you are also getting access to free and fast delivery from Amazon’s website and complete access to Prime Video which is home to movies and TV shows. One of the apps that almost made it to this list was Spotify. But when you do a proper Spotify vs Amazon Music feature-by-feature comparison, the latter comes with several benefits.
Subscription Cost: ₹299/month, ₹599/3 months, and ₹1499/year for the Prime membership
Pocket Casts
This app consistently distinguishes itself. Navigating its extensive podcast library is a seamless experience, thanks to its user-friendly interface and intuitive features. Locating your preferred podcast is easy and the platform has effortless discovery with top charts, featured shows, and thoughtfully curated lists for continual entertainment.
Opting for a membership elevates your listening experience to premium status. This lets you switch between light and dark modes for reduced eye strain. Additionally, the subscription unlocks access to web apps, allowing you to enjoy your favorite podcasts seamlessly on your computer. Pocket Casts’ commitment to simplicity and premium features makes it a standout choice in the crowded podcast platform landscape.
Subscription Cost: ₹4005/year onwards
Conclusion
In the vast landscape of podcasts, these recommendations stand out for their engaging content and diverse subject matter. Whether you’re a news junkie, a science enthusiast, or a true crime buff, there’s a podcast waiting to captivate your ears and expand your horizons. So, plug in your headphones and embark on a journey of discovery through the fascinating world of podcasts.
