Now that Erin and I drive so much- often up to 3 to 4 hours per day- it’s important that we have audio to occupy ourselves during the drive. I’ve been listening to podcasts mainly, with an audiobook sprinkled in every once in a while. I tend to listen to podcasts that expand my knowledge on a certain subject, or provide entertainment. The podcasting platform lends itself well to this.
Below you will find a list of my most frequent podcasts, as well as a few special finds. I’m always looking for new podcast recommendations. If you have any, please tell me!!
Regular Shows
I subscribe and listen to these shows on a weekly basis. I might not listen to every single one, but I know I’ll be back frequently. These are my favorite shows
My most listened to show by far is the Joe Rogan experience. You may be familiar with the name Joe Rogan either from his stand-up comedy specials on Netflix, or his UFC fighting commentary. He is a Renaissance man jack of all trades kind of dude. My favorite episodes tend to be when he brings in some sort of a scientist and interviews them. Sometimes I enjoy listening to him riff with one of his comedy buddies, but often times these podcasts become a bit boring to listen to as they tend to be less content oriented than his scientific and philosophical podcasts. Even when speaking to somebody much more serious than himself, Joe finds a ways regulate the conversation in a manner that makes it seem light enough while still conveying the importance. He is level headed, and knows how to ask the right questions. Below are some of my all-time favorite Joe Rogan podcasts that I’ve listened to.
Dan Harris, one of the co-hosts for ABC’s good morning America, hosts his own podcast. The podcast revolves around the topic of meditation. He Interviews celebrities, experts, and psychologists regarding meditation and mindfulness and how it impacts both their lives and the lives of the people around them. If you are interested in meditation, this podcast might be something that will keep your interest alive and motivate you to continue your practice.
Tim Ferriss is the author of the best selling book titled “The 4 hour work week”. The idea behind his podcast is that he tries to go out and find someone who is the very best at what they do and then figure out how they’re able to achieve results. He interviews them and then also typically give some kind of a commentary regarding how the information could be pertinent to everyday life. I usually only listen to this show if he is interviewing someone I am interested in hearing about. Otherwise, he is no comedian and actually isn’t that entertaining to listen to. But if I’m interested in whoever he is interviewing, his podcast can be one of the best around.
This is actually a web show that also happens to be recorded and uploaded in audio only version for podcast purposes. There is a live audience and it follows a more typical TV show format. The show is hosted by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Space and science are the main themes of this show. His co-hosts usually consist of another expert in the field and a comedian to help keep the show entertaining. This show tends to be much more entertaining in general than many of the others on this list.
I got introduced to the comedian Duncan Trussell by listening to one of Joe Rogan’s podcasts. When I learned that Duncan Trussell hosted his own podcast, I figured I would check it out. I have only recently started listening to Duncan Trussell’s podcast and I’m enjoying it a lot. His sense of humor is dark and despite what the show may be called it is definitely not family friendly. That being said, this podcast has legitimately gotten me to laugh out loud in my car more than any other podcast. It’s light and humorous, but manages to tackle the most sensitive of topics through deep and open conversation. I consider him a master comedian. He’s just too far out there to become as popular as Joe Rogan.
My Occasionals
I don’t regularly listen to these podcasts, but I will download a show every now and then as a change of pace.
The Model Health Show
Another Tim ferriss type, but more focused on health and fitness specifically. I only listen if I get a specific recommendation. That being said, every show I’ve listened to has been good.
Freakenomics
This show is more of pre-recorded production than the two-people-at-a-mic style podcasting I tend to listen to. I’ve listened to a handful of shows and they have all generally been very good, but the subject matter isn’t always up my alley.
Next Up
Next on my list is PT Pintcast. I know practically nothing about it, other than the subject matter is physical therapy. That’s the fun of podcasts though! There’s really no downside to trying new things if you are stuck in the car anyhow. Podcasts are also a good option for idle activities such as cardio, chopping vegetables, or washing dishes.
Let me know what your favorite podcasts are and why! I’d love to get some fresh recommendations. Thanks for reading!