Your ears are itching to listen to something, but you think you’re going to lose it if you have to listen to the same five songs from the top forty again. Your solution? Podcasts.
Podcasts have undoubtedly been the dark horse of digital media. To many, podcasts were just an unused section on a music app. However, in recent years, people have begun to re-harness the medium and rethink audio entertainment. As opposed to radio shows that could only be broadcasted live, the rise of the internet has allowed people to record and distribute their musings, aptly called audio blogging.
This new method of storytelling and delivery meant that people could take their radio shows with them and hit pause and play at their preference. One no longer had to wait for a live recording because the information was accessible and, more often than not, free.
Just like music, podcasts can come in a variety of different genres. By taking one look at the iTunes store or your Spotify app, this is obvious. However, the issue with such an abundance of content is finding the right podcast for you.
1. Start with what you know.
Have you always had an affinity for movies or makeup? Or maybe you’ve always been passionate about social justice and activism. By starting your search with something you’re familiar with, the wide variety of content can become a little more palatable.
In addition, beginning with a topic that is recognizable to you is a great jumping-off point. Through this, you can find content creators who have a unique voice and charismatic attitude that will persuade you to explore the medium even more.
2. Knowing the news is good news.
Let’s be real, it’s the twenty-first century. Now, more than ever, it is important to stay up to date on the political decisions that are being made and affecting peoples’ lives. Luckily, publications such as The Wall Street Journal and the New York Times have made it easy. Taking twenty to thirty minutes of your day to catch up on current events not only helps to keep you in the know but also helps you gain a better understanding of the world around you.
3. Try something new.
Recommendations will serve you well. If you’ve ever been curious about a hobby or interest that a friend of yours has, a great way to gain understanding is through podcasts. Lean into your curiosity!
Podcasts are a great way to learn something new, catch up on news, or escape to a new world. With such a simple concept behind the production, there’s something for everyone. If you don’t find what you want, you can always grab some friends and make your own. Happy listening!