I am a podcast addict. No doubt, I am late to the podcast world. I kept hearing about this whole podcast thing but didn’t really take the time to check it out until recently. Now that I’m hooked I find it’s a fun way for me to eliminate boredom while making dinner, driving in the car, or taking a walk. Granted, I haven’t allowed it to completely encroach on my time listening to audio books, but if I have to really concentrate on something (like say not burning dinner) I find it easier to listen to a podcast. That way if I miss something it’s not the end of the world. It’s not the end of the world if I miss a part of a book either, but you can see it from there. Ha! I’m kidding. I just have to spend a lot more time pushing the repeat button.
Today, I thought I’d share with you some of my favorite podcasts in case you’re looking for something to add to your podcast lineup, or are considering jumping into the podcast pool.
A Few of My Favs!
What Should I Read Next When I first started listening to this podcast I was like a junkie. I’d finish one episode and move on to another with barely a potty break in between. It still surprises me how much I love to read because I wasn’t a fan when I was in high school. Of course, perhaps had they wrapped up my history lessons in an historical romance novel I would have been more intrigued. Anyway, Anne Bogel is the host of this podcast and also writes the blog, Modern Mrs. Darcy, which is also about books. In each episode, Anne talks to one guest (and they vary greatly!) about books. Each guest tells Anne three books they loved, one book they didn’t, and what they’re reading now. From that Anne offers suggestions for books they might consider reading next. Most of the episodes are really fun to listen to with guests ranging from a woman living in her van in Australia to famous authors. The downside of this podcast is it has greatly added to my TBR (to be read) pile. So many books, so little time.
Out of the Ordinary I can’t even tell you how I stumbled upon this podcast. I think I read about it on someone’s blog, but however I got there, I’m so glad I did. Lisa-Jo Baker and Christie Purifoy are two friends who get together every week and talk about what is going on in their lives. They laugh, and occasionally cry, and listening to them is like sitting down for coffee with a couple of friends. Lisa-Jo grew up in South Africa so that always adds an interesting component (and accent) to the discussion. Christie lives in southeastern Pennsylvania in an old Victorian farmhouse, which is where the podcast is recorded. Whether they are planning an Easter egg hunt for the neighbors, or talking about their latest books, it’s always a delightful way to spend an hour. And, it’s never ordinary!
American History Tellers If my high school history teacher reads this he is no doubt currently doubled over in laughter. Of course, I might have paid closer attention in class had he added drama and interesting stories to each lesson. Then again, being a bit more mature probably helps, too. But seriously, America History Tellers is an intriguing and entertaining podcast. First off, the storyteller, Lindsay Graham, doesn’t have a boring monotone voice, which I find especially helpful. And, at least part of each podcast includes a drama on the subject, making it far more captivating.
John and I were on the road this weekend for several hours and listened to a podcast on prohibition and another on the great Spanish flu pandemic in 1918. Did you know that during the flu pandemic New York City made it illegal to sneeze or cough without covering your mouth, punishable by a stiff fine and/or up to a year in prison? There’s one way to deal with overcrowded prisons—fill it with patients! The absolute best thing about the American History Tellers podcast is that there’s NO TEST! If you happen to forget something it’s no big deal. You can either listen again, or move on to learning something else.
If you take some time to listen to any of these podcasts I know you won’t be disappointed. Let me know if you try one and tell me what you think. Happy listening!
Cover photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash