I do love a podcast.
I tend to stay well away from audiobooks, because it feels like cheating. I don’t know if anyone can relate to that feeling, but having a physical book in your hands, taking the time to read over each word and build up an image of what the characters look like, what their surroundings are like, what their personalities are like through the writing – an audiobook just cannot give you the same feeling.
With a podcast, however, I feel like it’s a chat between two friends. Regardless of what the conversation is about, if it’s a subject you feel particularly connected to, it’s so easy to listen to.
I am incredibly varied when it comes to listening to podcasts and I’ll admit that in the beginning, a true crime podcast was my favourite (and it still is), but I’ve branched out now to other subjects that I have a real interest in.
I’ve tried my best to group them together below, but I really do recommend any of these if you’re looking to something to listen to on your run, when you’re working or just commuting.
True Crime:
I thought I’d start here because it really is everyone’s favourite. There is something very interesting about how the mind of a psychopath works, and there are a lot of podcasts that I would recommend you start off with. I know My Favourite Murder is a popular one, but I personally just can’t get into it – I think it’s the style that it’s made in, and I quite like the tension that’s built up with the ones like:
Sword & Scale – Each episode is entirely different, and predominantly focuses on stories around the US, but includes clips from actual phone calls, and it’s narrated in quite a tense, dark way. There are a LOT of episodes, but worth a listen!
Cold– I’d heard of this story a while back, and knew I’d recognised the names when they were mentioned in the actual story. Do not google it, but it involves a family, and a missing member of that family who still hasn’t been found.
Serial – The story of Adnan Syed is pretty well known now, but this is one podcast I’d listen to again over and over because it’s one of my favourites, and I’m still in two minds over whether I think his imprisonment is just or not.
The Teacher’s Pet – Still an unsolved story of the disappearance of Lynette Dawson, giving you a bit more context on her life and what her family thinks happened to her.
Monster – The Zodiac Killer – You may have heard of the Zodiac killings that ripped through California in the 1960’s and 70’s. The killer still hasn’t been found (and probably won’t be now), but this story left police running around in circles for years.
Educational:
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve developed a big interest in science (I must really get this from my dad), and I find it so fascinating. Again, I have a bit of a morbid fascination with diseases and how they develop, so any podcast related to that is right up my street.
In school, Classical Civilisation (bar drama), was my favourite subject. Part of me wishes I’d studied it at university because I really love history but it would have involved latin and that was my weakness!
Myths & Legends – Not just classical history, but the stories surrounding the most famous individuals of all time, including the likes of Robin Hood, Nordic Gods and magical eras. It’s lovely to listen to if that’s your cup of tea; it certainly is mine!
The History of Rome – This doesn’t need much explanation. A look back at the whole history of Rome and the all the major events around the city at that time.
Getting Curious With Jonathan Van Ness – If you’re anything like me, you’ll love Jonathan from Queer Eye (he’s my favourite). Jonathan is very inquisitive, and is keen to learn about any and every subject, from Islam to period poverty, vaccinations, from trade unionship to medical marijuana; it is a diverse podcast and if you’re keen to learn, it’s a great podcast to listen to.
Let’s Talk About Myths Baby – This is another Greek and Roman mythology podcast (see I’m obsessed). All the gods are connected in some way, and there are some great stories of their origins which this podcast delves into.
This Podcast Will Kill You – if, like me, you’re a bit of a morbid soul with a curiosity for science and all things disease related, this podcast is for you. The presenters, Erin and Erin, talk through some of world’s deadliest diseases, discussing their origins and how they spread so quickly; including the plague, the ebola virus and even HIV/AIDs.
Motherhood/Life:
Finally, as a mum and a woman, I’m naturally drawn towards conversations related to motherhood, life as a woman and life in general. I’m always curious about how other mothers cope with their kids and the tip and tricks they have when it comes to parenting, that I could use now, and in the future with other potential children!
Made by Mammas – You will love Zoe and Georgia’s take on the hardships (and positive parts!) of motherhood, delving into the struggles of the newborn stage, weaning, breastfeeding, sleeping and more. Every episode they have a guest with whom they discuss these subjects and it’s both a great insight for me personally having not dealt with many of the issues such as toileting or food. Definitely worth a listen if you’re a mum!
Happy Mum Happy Baby – Giovanna Fletcher is a fab mum. I follow her on Instagram and love her approach to parenting. It was only natural that I moved onto her podcast for more of her chats about motherhood, where it’s not judgmental, but we’re all just trying to get through it as best as possible with the best outcome.
How To Fail with Elizabeth Day – I haven’t had the chance to read Elizabeth’s book, but I really do enjoy her podcast. If I’m having a down day, this is just the pick me up I need to know that things happen for a reason, and usually, with hard work, you will get the positive outcome you desire. She chats to various guests who discuss their failures and how that has shaped them.
The Fringe of It – if you follow Liv (if you’re not, then why?), you’ll know that she has a podcast with her dear with Charlotte. What I love about this podcast is that you really do feel like you’re in the room with them, having a chat with your friends because all the subjects they touch on are so relevant. I’ve known Liv for a very long time and The Fringe of It is definitely in my top 5 favourite podcasts.
Listen Louder – One of my fab friends, Megs, recently started Listen Louder; a space to talk openly about mental health, with no judgement. She started a podcast alongside it and I’ve always found listening to Megs talk very comforting. By nature, she is so attentive and listening to her podcast you can really hear that. Each episode discusses things like body image, and how your skin can have a great impact on your mental health – definitely worth a listen for the educational side, but also just to know that you are never alone.
