Heard any good podcasts lately?

I started listening to podcasts a few years ago. I just sort of stumbled upon them as an alternative to reading or watching a show or listening to an audio book.  I can easily get distracted and lose my place while “listening” to books and end up having to rewind. And reading an actual book or watching something on a screen requires planting myself somewhere – which is fine when I’m in the mood to settle in. But for those times I want to be entertained as I go about my day, a podcast is the perfect solution.

With podcasts, it doesn’t matter if my mind or body wanders, and I always find something interesting or learn something new. Podcasts entertain, educate, motivate and make you think – all while affording the listener the ability to multi-task; get in a workout, clean the house or check email. I often listen to podcasts while walking my dog, Louie – laughing out loud and nodding with agreement while ratcheting up the miles.

There are thousands of podcasts to choose from, with more popping up daily, so there really is something for everyone. Also, most are free and easily downloaded by using one of many podcast apps, making them super user friendly. You can subscribe to shows and will be notified when new shows “drop” so you won’t miss thought provoking discussions and fascinating guests.

Have a yearning for political discussion or current events? No shortage of those. Pick your preferred host and hunker down for some fiery discussion. Maybe you want to listen to a celebrity discussing their diet and exercise routine or interviewing other celebrities? Lots of those too.

There are podcasts that teach history, science and business strategies. There are podcasts that cover religion, relationships, parenting and pets. Or maybe you just want a good laugh? I’ve discovered some hilarious offerings from actors and comedians.

Looking for podcast recommendations? I was too – so I asked some fellow fans of the medium to share their favorites – along with descriptions and reviews. I’ve also included some of my personal picks.

So, tune into a podcast and turn up the volume. I’ve listed some popular shows. They are mostly sorted by category, but keep in mind that many cross-over into multiple genres.  Here goes:

Informative, educational or professional development podcasts:

Here’s Where it Gets Interesting with Sharon McMahon: “Interesting interviews, deep dive series on historical moments and people. Stories about our country you’ve likely never heard.” – Cynthia Chandler Ward. This is also one of my all-time favorites.

You Must Remember This: “A podcast about the secret or forgotten history of Hollywood’s first century. Heavily researched non-fiction that has won numerous awards.” – Joan Price

The Drive – Peter Attia: From the author of “Outlive” this physician turned podcaster covers topics related to health, diet, fitness and ultimately, longevity. His guests come from a wide variety of disciplines. I’ve learned a lot of tips on how to live a healthy life – now it’s just a matter of putting them into practice!

A bit of Optimism: “Simon Sinek always offers amazing insight into leadership.” – Lisa Sifuentes

Business Wars: “An excellent business intelligence podcast for unique perspectives and reflections on relevant deals of the day and from history.” – Trevor May

Opinion/news/current event podcasts:

Honestly with Bari Weiss: Probably my all-around favorite podcast. A former writer for the New York Times, Bari is a skilled interviewer and her guests are always interesting. She manages to cover the most pressing issues of our time and I always come away wishing everyone would listen.

Pod Save America: “A political podcast hosted by Jon Favreau, Tommy Victor, Jon Lovett and Dan Pfeiffer. Unabashed partisan – smart and funny with great guests” – Joan Price

The Megyn Kelly Show: If you like political discussion and debate, Megyn delivers. As a self-professed “Independent” she doesn’t pull any punches as she covers current, hot-topic events and issues. “I listen to Megyn Kelley every day. She is smart and funny.” – Peggy Monahan

Comedy/Celebrity Interview podcasts:

Club Random with Bill Maher: “One-on-one hour-long conversations with a wide variety of unexpected guests. There’s a whole big world out there that isn’t about politics and Bill and his guests talk about all of it.”– from clubrandom.com. My view of Bill Maher has changed drastically over the past year. He’s observant and witty and not afraid to say what’s on his mind. This is a new favorite that always makes me laugh.

Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend: Conan has the ability to be funny without being offensive. I think it’s his self-deprecating humor. He’s got a couple of side-kicks that keep the conversation flowing as he interviews both celebrities and regular folks. Another crowd favorite among readers.

Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfuss: Julia, of “Seinfeld” fame, interviews “older and wiser” influential and successful women. Their stories are refreshing departure from the norm in our youth obsessed culture. Guests include Carol Burnett, Sally Field, Diane Von Furstenberg and Jane Fonda.

Help, I sexted my boss: “An absolute knee slapper. It’s outrageous and centers around advice for listeners who write in about social dilemmas. Hosted by two men who couldn’t be more different. One a proper English etiquette coach to royalty and the other, a sports-loving average jock/bachelor who’s a bit rough around the edges. So darn funny.” – Trevor May

Smartless: Hosted by Jason Batemen, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett, the show features a variety of guest interviews and a good dose of comedy. This is another reader favorite. “It’s funny and interesting and not too heavy.” – Nancy Dankle

Literally with Rob Lowe: This popular actor interviews friends and family on wide-ranging topics including sports, music and culture. It’s interesting to experience this 80’s “brat-packer” in a more cerebral role.

Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard: Actor Dax Shepard interviews other celebrities with interesting themes including; “tell us about the time someone took the fall for you.” This is a fun, lighthearted listen. A recent interview with Rebel Wilson was riveting.

Inspirational/Religious/Self Help podcasts:

Unlocking Us with Brene Brown: Social scientist and researcher Brene Brown has written countless bestseller covering things like shame and empathy. This podcast focuses on the “possibilities and costs of living beyond human scale.” Topics cover how we behave on social media and how we show up with each other online and offline. This is an extremely timely podcast and I’m an immediate fan.

Everything Happens with Kate Bowler: Kate wrote a bestseller titled “Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I’ve Loved” when she was diagnosed with stage IV cancer several years ago. In this podcast, she talks with others who’ve gone through tough times and the lessons learned – with a focus on faith. Surprisingly uplifting.

The Mel Robbins Podcast: “Real-life relatable topics, tactical advice, compelling conversations and inspiration” – Cynthia Chandler Ward. This one seems to be very popular and is a new personal favorite as well.

Abiding Together – “Great messages and insights into our true identity as children of God.” – Karen Lewis

DiveDeep: “Educational, inspirational and gives truth to tough and interesting questions about the Catholic faith.” – Debbie Benz

True-Life Story podcasts:

Last Days: Stories about celebrities who died tragically. I haven’t checked this one out yet, but I’m definitely intrigued.

What Was That Like? “Incredible true stories told by real people.” – Allyson Rotramel

I’ll end this column with a caveat. As with all forms of entertainment, preferences vary widely. If any of these suggestions aren’t your cup of tea, it’s easy to press pause and search for something more appealing. The listening options are endless.

If you’d like to share your favorite podcast, just drop me an email and I’ll give it a listen.