I’ll be honest, when my postdoc first recommended that I should listen to podcasts, I wasn’t convinced.

As an introvert, the last thing I wanted to do was listen to someone chatting in my ears for hours on end. But then she recommended an episode that directly related to my research in developmental biology. I was entranced. Hearing people talk about the subject I was researching in a creative, non-academic outlet was really inspiring. Now I listen to podcasts every day, whether I’m sitting at the microscope in the lab, on my morning/evening commutes, or at home relaxing.

In addition to podcasts about science topics, I’ve discovered shows about society, politics, cooking, and music. Podcasts have become additional resources in many aspects of my life. Here is a list of my top five podcasts.

5. Hidden Brain

From the National Public Radio (NPR), Hidden Brain examines the social phenomena that everyone wonders about. Do humans actually think rationally? Why are we more likely to google difficult questions than talking to other people? Why is the #metoo movement gaining traction now, instead of another time in history? Hosted by Shankar Vedantam, this podcast explores the social science behind human behavior that we experience and witness every day.

Favorite episodes: Alan Alda Wants Us To Have Better Conversations, Why Now?, The Value Of 'Deep Work' In An Age Of Distraction

4. Modern Love

Modern Love is a podcast based on the New York Times series of essays submitted by readers and narrated by famous individuals. Hosted by Meghna Chakrabarti (WBUR Boston Radio) and comments by Modern Love editor Daniel Jones, Modern Love explores all aspects of humanity through the theme of love. This series features stories about all types of love (romantic love, family love, self-love), shares universal challenges (first love, heartbreak, grief, and loss), but also highlights the individuals' experiences. Listening to Modern Love has made me laugh, cry, and reflect on the types of love in my own life.

Favorite episodes: A Heart of Gold, Marry My Husband, A Boyfriend Too Good To Be True

3. The Story Collider

If you love the feel of stand-up comedy, you'll love The Story Collider. This podcast highlights the "true, personal stories about science” as told by scientists themselves in a casual setting. The Story Collider hosts live shows all over the country and broadcast their stories for the wider community to understand the human side of science. Hosted by Erin Barker, this show creates an intimate discussion of how the struggles and joys of life impact scientists and inspire the work that they do.

Favorite episodes: Innovation: Stories about creative ideas, Migration:Stories about journeys home, DNA: Stories about family

2. The Hardcore Self Help Podcast

On The Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff's no-nonsense style doesn't beat around the bush when it comes to mental health. Each episode dives head first into psychological issues while presenting complex ideas in an understandable, compassionate manner. In addition to education, Dr. Duff's suggestions and practices inspire improvement and change in his listeners. While not a replacement for your therapist, this podcast offers advice and tips for an array of psychological topics.

Favorite episodes: Moving, Tolerating Insecurity, Anxiety Procrastination, A Guided Relaxation For The Holidays, 10 Common Thinking Traps

1. Science Vs.

Two words: Wendy Zukerman. As the host of Science Vs., she is the most recognizable voice on Gimlet Media (and not just because of the Australian accent). Wendy’s excitement and passion for scientific journalism is infectious. Each week, Science Vs. investigates a different topic in pop culture and aims to dispel common myths with science. This podcast incorporates humor, wonky sound effects, and compelling storytelling to incite anyone's curiosity for science.