How do you fill the silence in your life? For me, it’s either TV, music, or podcasts.
When I stopped to think about this question, I realized I hardly ever just sit in silence. I’ve always got some sort of spoken word filling the otherwise silent space. My parents always had music playing in the house growing up, so I guess in a way it’s just a habit I picked up and continued myself.
Anyway, I want to to talk about the podcasts I’m listening to right now. It’s probably my favorite way to retain knowledge and learn new things right now. I can do chores, walk, or work and listen to a great story at the same time.
A multi-tasking queen.
Here’s a roundup of some podcasts that will have you thinking about the bigger questions in life and have you laughing (or commiserating) at the same time.
1. Beautiful Stories From Anonymous People
1 phone call. 1 hour. No names. No holds barred. That’s the name of the game in the Beautiful Stories From Anonymous People podcast hosted by comedian Chris Gethard. Anonymous callers talk to Chris for an hour and talk about whatever they like. The only catch is that they cannot reveal identifiable information like their name or names of others in the story, or the name of their location.
This is the podcast that got me into podcasts way back in 2016. I immediately fell in love with Chris’ voice and the ease of the interviews, and obviously, the crazy stories people tell. Chris asks the hard questions all while conducting himself in the most respectful way possible.
But more than that, this podcast proves the idea that sometimes it’s easier to spill your most honest self to a stranger. The anonymity is the icing on the cake.
2. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
You may know Dax Shepard as the husband of Kristen Bell or that guy from Without a Paddle in the early 2000’s. But did you know he hosts one of the most popular podcasts?
I stumbled upon Dax a few weeks ago and was instantly hooked on Armchair Expert. He interviews interesting guests, ranging from actors, scientists, authors, you name it, in an effort to “discover human truths.” Of course he keeps it funny along the way. His background is in acting and improv comedy, but he always manages to get to the heart of the conversation and the person.
If you love pop culture, this is a great option for you in that respect too. His celebrity guests divulge personal, but insightful information that you won’t hear anywhere else.
3. Bitch Sesh: A Real Housewives Breakdown
If you don’t watch The Real Housewives series on Bravo, skip on past this section. If you do, I highly recommend listening to the Bitch Sesh podcast. Bitch Sesh is a weekly recap podcast hosted by actor/comedian/writer Casey Wilson and Danielle Schneider, a.k.a huge housewives fans.
Each week Casey and Danielle break down each new housewives episode and occasionally bring in a guest host that’s equally as invested. If you watch the housewives alone, this podcast is like the recap and group discussion you should be having with friends after and during each episode. It’s lighthearted, honest, and hilarious. Pour a glass of Whispering Angel rosé and put on your She by Sheree joggers and buckle up.
4. Fresh Air
Fresh Air is a radio talk show on NPR hosted by renowned journalist Terry Gross. Fresh Air has been on the airwaves since 1975 bringing some of the best interviews of all time.
Terry is by far my favorite interviewer. Her voice is as captivating as her questions. Her ability to ask hard hitting questions, remain unbiased, and maintain an intimate interview flow is unmatched. Terry reports on current affairs in news, politics, and pop culture everyday.
You can tell that each guest genuinely enjoys talking to Terry and appreciates her time, which makes the talk show all the more enjoyable.
5. Almost 30
Whether or not you’re “almost 30,” this podcast is for anyone navigating change in their life. Friends Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik share personal stories and interview experts in their field to talk about wellness, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and more on Almost 30.
At 27, I often find myself asking questions and going through similar experiences to many of the subjects Krista and Lindsey discuss on this podcast. If you’re going through a career change, this podcast is for you. If you’re experiencing trouble with self-love and confidence, this podcast is for you. Or if you’re just experiencing the uncomfortable nature of growing up and all the challenges life throws at you, this podcast is for you.
Krista and Lindsey act as surrogate big sisters each episode and reassure listeners that you’ve got this, and that everything will be okay in the end.
I’m always on the hunt for a a great podcast. I’d love to know what you’re listening to right now that’s either similar to the ones mentioned in this post or otherwise. Let’s get a conversation going in the comments.