Hey guys, I know we’ve all got a bunch of stuff to do. There are Netflix shows to watch, new albums from our favorite artists to listen to, and on top of that we also have homework. How are we going to balance all of that? There is so much pop culture to consume but not enough time. Here’s the solution: podcasts. These babies give you knowledge, humor, intrigue and more all in your ears while you’re walking or chilling or driving. It’s the perfect solution. You may be wondering where to start in the world of podcasts. I’m here to help! Here is my list of the top 10 best podcasts to listen to.
10. Gilmore Guys
This podcast is for lovers of “Gilmore Girls” and pop culture in general. The premise of the podcast is this: two guys go through each episode of each season of “Gilmore” one by one, critiquing and analyzing the beloved show. The two guys make great observations and their comments are fresh and unique. Some episodes feature actors from the show, or producers and writers and other episodes feature longtime fans of “Gilmore” itself.
9. Serial
This classic podcast centers on NPR’s Sarah Koenig and her investigation into a cold case. The first season focusing on the death of Hae Min Lee and the trial of Adnan Syed, and the second addresses the disappearance and eventual rescue of Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl. Koenig uses firsthand accounts, her own retellings and interviews to spin a complex web that leaves listeners desperate for more.
8. Limetown
This podcast is fictionalized, written about the disappearance of an entire town’s population. In the style of “Serial,” a journalist investigates the town and its inhabitants, starting with little to no information and digging deeper. The audience join the narrator on a mission to find out just what happened in Limetown.
7. How Did This Get Made?
Finally, a podcast that says what we are all thinking. Leave it to comedian/actor Paul Scheer, his wife June Diane Raphael, and comedian Jason Mantzoukas to say it. Each episode focuses on a particularly bad movie. The three hosts and their guest analyze the film, joke about the film, and oftentimes rip it to shreds. However, sometimes the movie surprises. Tune in to find out how these movies got made.
6. Anna Faris is Unqualified
It comes as no surprise that Anna Faris is a perfect human. She wouldn’t want you to say that, but after one episode of this podcast, you can pretty much discover it for yourself.
5. This American Life
When one thinks podcast, they probably think “This American Life.” It makes sense. This podcast is something new and something great even after 23 years. Host Ira Glass engages his audience with mind-blowing revelations, heartwarming tales, and intriguing ideas and doesn’t seem inclined to stop anytime soon.
4. Missing Richard Simmons
We all have an idea of who Richard Simmons is. The flamboyant, hilarious cultural icon is many things to many people. In this podcast, a friend goes in search of Richard after he falls off the grid for a while. In his investigation, he, himself, and his listeners learn more about Richard Simmons then ever expected.
3. 2 Dope Queens
Have you ever listened to someone talk and think “They must be reading my mind!” This podcast does just that. Phoebe Robinson and Jessica Williams cover everything from social issues to just female issues. They both have fantastic senses of humor and fresh perspectives on the world. You feel like you’re one of the gals, chatting away about life and all its obstacles.
2. West Wing Weekly
Another podcast dedicated to television, “West Wing Weekly,” focuses on an episode by episode recap of the classic Sorkin show. Expanding on a discussion of the show, the two hosts interview cast members as well as experts on the show. This 50 minute podcast provides a great mix of information, nostalgia with a pop culture finesse.
