Have you ever wondered what that little purple app on your iPhone was actually for? Or are you just looking to widen your media horizons? Podcasts are new-age radio shows that are quickly becoming one of the most popular forms of entertainment. They have dominated the last year of my life, and I’m looking to share some of my favorites with you.

�1. 2 Dope Queens

Hosted by ‘The Daily Show’ correspondent Jessica Williams and comedian Phoebe Robinson, this podcast variety show talks about everything from romance and hair journeys, to living in New York and Billy Joel. These two dope queens (along with some other amazing comedians) are always hilarious.

2. Serial

Interested in following a week-by-week, real-life murder mystery? Sarah Koenig investigates Adnan Syed’s alleged murder of his high school girlfriend, Hai Lee. It’s gripping and suspenseful and I can’t get enough of it.

3. Here's The Thing With Alec Baldwin

Here’s The Thing is a series of talks and interviews Alec Baldwin has with the world’s top performers, artists, policy makers and sports stars about their lives. They always feel very honest and intimate- as if you’re actually sitting in the room chatting with them.

4. Reply All

Hosted by PJ Vogt and Alex Goldman, Reply All tackles the topic of how people change the internet and how the internet changes people. Every episode is hilarious and the perfect thing to listen to while driving or in the shower.

5. The New York Public Library Podcast

The New York Public Library Podcast features, and I’m quoting their website now, “your favorite writers, artists and thinkers in smart talks and provocative conversations.” This is my favorite podcast to listen to when i’m craving inspiration. It’s especially cinematic to listen to while on the train or in the car during a road trip- makes you feel like you think deep and important thoughts.

6. Women Of The Hour With Lena Dunham

I know Lena Dunham is not always a fan-favorite on the internet, I've read all the #discourse surrounding her, but I do genuinely believe that Women of the Hour is worth note. Alongside other female artists or actors or thinkers, Lena talks about everything from our weird relationship with our bodies to the workforce. It's often thought provoking and lightly funny.

7. Welcome To Night Vale

By now, just about everyone has heard about Welcome To Night Vale. This bimonthly podcast is formatted in the style of radio news updates from the small town of Night Vale. Written by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, this show is known for its obscure and off-beat plot. (They also have a 'Weather' section where they play music from bands no one's heard of. It's pretty good and also how I've found a lot of music that I love).