I started listening to podcasts when I began my journey as a commuter student. While I used to listen to my high school playlist on an absolute ancient iPod (yes, I still have an actual separate iPod!), my sister suggested podcasts and downloaded my first one for me. Since then, I’ve become a huge fan. They keep me entertained and focused on a single story, be it true crime-related, pop culture-centered, or all about meditation. Below are my top five podcasts for those who want to give something other than music a listen to.
1. My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff & Georgia Hardstark
Image Courtesy of Castbox.fm
I’m going to give my number one spot to my absolute favorite podcast: My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff & Georgia Hardstark. This podcast focuses around two friends in Los Angeles who, each week, relay true crime cases to the listeners. They lay out the details of every case and often comment on their own thoughts concerning the suspects and situations. They bring a new dynamic to the genre of murder stories, as they don’t forget about the victims. It’s gained a notable following throughout the world, as evidenced by the live episodes they’ve done in several cities, Philadelphia included! If you’re a true crime fan, this is the podcast for you!
2. Gilmore Guys
This one features two male friends who go hardcore down the rabbit hole that is Stars Hollow. Fans of the cult-classic, starring Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham, will find themselves loving Gilmore Guys just as much they do the original series.
3. Meditation Minis with Chel Hamilton
Image Courtesy of iTunes
Meditation Minis episodes are each 15 minutes or less, but whoa, do they pack a lot into that tiny timeframe. I usually save this one for my Friday afternoons and I find it helps me release the stress of having worked all week, while also preparing me to focus on the weekend truly being mine. The host is a hypnotherapist and prepares segments based on topics every human can need help with: struggling to say no, releasing your negative feelings, how to deal with a difficult break-up and much more.
4. Global News Podcast from BBC World Service
These episodes are 30-minute segments compiled two times a day by the BBC, who have 24-hour news services. They present the highlights of the day from around the world. BBC has been my family’s go-to news network for as long as I can remember, and I really enjoy how they have been making it easier and easier to stay connected with and updated on the world.
5. The History Chicks
Image Courtesy of Best History Podcasts
This podcast focuses on the female perspective of history, including hour-long segments containing information on various women, from Jackie O to Lucy Maud Montgomery to Madam C.J. Walker. I had recognized the names from past history classes, but this podcast focuses exclusively on women’s impact. In this day and age where women are becoming increasingly more equal, The History Chicks is a smart and entertaining choice.
There are numerous podcasts available for your entertainment, but here are five I think anyone could find entertaining. Whatever you are a fan of, I guarantee there is a podcast available for you. Check out Spotify or iTunes for options!