Podcasts first became popular in the early 2000s alongside the rise of iPods and MP3 players. Journalist Ben Hammersly was the first to use the term in an article about “amateur radio” for the Guardian.
Fast forward to 2019 when over 90 million Americans listened to at least one podcast monthly.
Being in a generation that grew up with podcasts, I’ve listened to my fair share, and being a journalism major, my interest in podcasting has only increased with time.
This semester, I had the opportunity to take “Storytelling with Sound” at Kent State, a podcasting class with former National Public Radio host, Amanda Rabinowitz. Being in the class has taught me that anyone can make a podcast. You don’t need fancy equipment or a Morgan Freeman level voice. All you need is a digital recording device and something to say.
People make podcasts on everything from pop culture to self help. Into sports? Check out Barstool. Like true crime? Listen to Crime Junkie. There is something for everyone.
If you’re in search of a new listen, here is a list of my favorite podcasts.
News
- The Daily
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This podcast from the New York Times brings listeners one current news story everyday just in time for your morning commute.
- Up First
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Similar to The Daily, NPR’s Up First informs listeners on three breaking news stories every morning.
Entertainment
- Anything Goes
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Emma Chamberlain’s podcast covers everything from her thoughts on coffee to thoughtful advice sessions. If you’re a fan of the YouTuber, you will be a fan of her podcast.
- Call Her Daddy
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Perhaps one of the biggest podcasts of all time, Call Her Daddy shares dating tips and tricks alongside life advice. Host Alex Cooper makes the show with her engaging personality and entertaining stories.
- Office Ladies
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Are you a fan of hit TV show, The Office? Then this podcast is for you. Listen to hosts Jenna Fisher and Angela Kinsey give an in-depth summary of each episode while sharing fun tidbits and personal stories.
Reading
- What Should I Read Next?
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If you’re a bookworm, this show is sure to increase your “to be read” list tenfold. Listen to guests discuss their favorite books and receive recommendations of their own.
- Books in the Freezer
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This podcast discusses all things horror books. If you’re into the scary and supernatural, this show is for you.
Miscellaneous
- Serial
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Serial was the first podcast I was ever truly invested in. It tells a true crime story of a man convicted of killing his girlfriend. The podcast makes you question the legal system and what it takes to get convicted of a crime.
- Stuff Mom Never Told You
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All my feminists out there, this one’s for you. Each week the hosts dive into a different topic related to femininity and what it means to be a woman in the modern world.
If none of these interest you, that’s okay! There’s plenty more where they come from. And even if you spend hours searching for the perfect show that doesn’t seem to exist, you can always start your own. Happy podcasting!