Why Won’t You Date Me? (Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Online)
Hosted by Nicole Byer, this zany and raunchy podcast focuses on Byer’s inability to find “the one.” With guests consisting of former flings, fellow comedians and Byer’s closest friends, listeners are sure to find nuggets of romance-related wisdom buried between the laughs.
S-Town (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Online and full text transcript)
A must-listen for any Alabama citizen, this true-life narrative is guided by NPR’s Brian Reed. What begins as an investigation of corrupt law enforcement quickly becomes an intimate dive into the life of one eccentric, brilliant and lonely man.
Dr. Death (Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Online)
A wonderfully engaging example of investigative journalism, Dr. Death uses the story of a charismatic, yet unqualified doctor to expose the fatal flaws of the U.S. healthcare system.
The Adventure Zone (Apple Podcasts and Online)
Never played Dungeons and Dragons? No problem. This D&D podcast hosted by the uniquely humorous McElroy brothers is designed for listeners of all gaming backgrounds; and, more important than the mechanics of tabletop RPGs is the intricately-crafted universe and adventurers within that capture the hearts of the audience.
Hysteria (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify)
A podcast truly by women for women, Hysteria is hosted by comedy writer and political commentator Erin Ryan, along with her bi-coastal collection of gal-pals. These ladies are prepared to deliver their hot takes on news, politics and pop culture, as well as share weekly soapboxes in a segment titled “Hills You’ll Die On.”
Intelligence Squared U.S. Debates (Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Online)
The goal of this non-partisan, non-profit organization-hosted podcast is to address the increasing polarization of politics in the U.S. through debates that encourage critical thinking, facts, reason and civility. For those wanting to learn them a thing or two, this might be a good starting point.
Potterless (Apple Podcasts and Online)
It’s not an exaggeration to say that most folks are well-acquainted with the “Harry Potter” books and movies. However, Potterless host Mike Schubert is far from familiar with the iconic childhood series, a characteristic that becomes the basis of this podcast. Listeners are invited to experience his first delve into the world of magic as he hashes out theories and plot-holes with superfans and friends alike.
Wolf 359 (Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts)
One of the few podcasts on this list that explores the fiction side of the audio platform, Wolf 359 is the clever sci-fi drama we’ve all been craving.
Still Untitled: The Adam Savage Project (Apple Podcasts, Online and YouTube)
After seven years and a couple hundred episodes, this weekly pop culture focused podcast remains untitled, but keeps the charm that hosts Adam Savage, Norman Chan and Will Smith (not that Will Smith) bring to the table when discussing science fiction, news and issues within the maker community.
The Daily (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Online)
The New York Times’ entry into the daily news podcast format is hosted by Michael Barbaro and often brings in various Times writers to discuss the day’s news and events. Hosted five times a week, this podcast is always available when you wake up to break down the most important stories.
This Might Get Weird: Grace Helbig and Mamrie Hart (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify)
Two YouTube-famous thirty-somethings discuss life in Los Angeles with their friends and family. Each episode focuses on stories that the everyday person might find hilarious and absurd, covering topics like Alf, show cats and what it’s like to find love in LA.
Recode Decode (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and full text transcript)
Hosted by Sara Swisher, this weekly interview-based podcast is focused on talking with industry leaders about developments in the world of tech. The show’s guests have included big industry names like Mark Zuckerberg and less well-known figures, like on a recent episode that featured the founders of NYU’s AI Institute.
My Favorite Murder (Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and Online)
If you’re fascinated by true crime, but not necessarily enthused by all the gory details, My Favorite Murder might be the perfect fit for you. Unapologetically goofy co-hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark assume the task of discussing gruesome crimes in the most lighthearted manner possible, ranging from the most well-known cases to hometown stories submitted by listeners. Remember, stay sexy and don’t get murdered.
The Dollop (Apple Podcasts)
Blending history and comedy this podcast takes a dive into a different historical topic each week, the catch being that one of the hosts doesn’t know what that topic will be prior to recording. Hosted by comedians Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds, this podcast is sure to keep you definitely laughing and hopefully learning.
Work.It (Apple Podcast and Online)
This podcast is hosted by Angelica Malin and examines different methods to improve your mood and productivity while at work. The show uses interviews to introduce concepts about how to be happier while giving you a break from your schedule.
