I’ve always been more of a reader than a listener and usually pick up a book before I turn on the radio but I’ve come to love the medium of podcasting this last year and wanted to share some of my favorites with you from 2016. I pop them on when I’m driving or working around the house and I love that they’re available whenever I want.
If you’re new to podcasting, don’t be intimidated by the technology. If I can figure it out, I promise it’s not hard. My favorite app is Overcast. I love that I can control the speed at which I listen (some people are slow talkers) and it also organizes all the podcasts I listen to. It’s also easy to keep track of which shows have new episodes since they come to the top of my queue and are automatically downloaded for me. Not having to have wifi to listen makes it even easier to pop them on when I want.
Here’s what’s in my ear for 2016
On Being with Krista Tippett
From the show: On Being takes up the big questions of meaning with scientist and theologians, artists and teachers – some you know and some you don’t know. I love the thoughtful, contemplative theme of this podcast. Tippett has interesting guests that are willing to examine their own beliefs with gentleness and an open mind. I’m always left thinking about something long after the episode is over. This is much more for people who are wanting to ask questions than be reassured of all the answers.
Start with James Martin – Finding God in All Things, her interview with a well known American Jesuit priest.
The Simple Show
From the show: We each have a curated list of things that make life a delight – at the top of our list, it’s books, home and travel. Tsh Oxenrider’s podcast is a continuation of her helpful website, Art of Simple, which offers wisdom about how to “live holistically with your life’s purpose” She recently changed from an interview format to four rotating co-hosts and covers topics from home, family life, travels and simple living. I always find something interesting and useful in each episode and feel like I’m catching up with a friend over coffee.
Start with Episode 27: Big City Simple Living. It’s the old interview format but such an interesting take on how living in a big city like New York can still inspire simple living.
Pantsuit Politics
From the show: A podcast where a woman from the right and woman from the left accessorize the news with a fresh perspective. My husband actually started listening to this one first since he loves all things politics but I quickly added it to my queue as a way to hear from both sides in a nuanced and civil way. There’s no extreme agendas here and these two women work hard to understand each other and not shout over one another. I promise this is not another typical political discussion.
Start with Season 2 Episode 25: How to Talk Politics with your Kids. It’s from before the most recent election but plenty of the tips still are applicable.
Young House Love Has a Podcast
From the show: Deep (and not-so-deep) conversations about home improvement, design and life at home. John and Sherry Petersik’s uber popular Young House Love blog is back as a podcast. I loved their fun and approachable design philosophy when then were regularly blogging and I enjoy listening to their weekly episodes. DIY isn’t my passion but I enjoy hearing others talk about it and their quirky dynamic as a couple makes this a fun listen.
Start with Episode 13: Houses Are Overwhelming, So Where Do I Start? You won’t feel so alone when you hear John and Sherry walking you through their own thinking about DIY design.
The Liturgists
From the show: Making room at the table for the spiritually homeless and frustrated. I haven’t listened to this podcast for long and it isn’t for the faint of heart but the two guys who put this show together and not afraid to tackle the deep or the messy topics of faith. If you think you’re the only one asking those hard questions, you’re not and this podcast will make you feel right at home.
Start with Episode 34-Black and White: Racism in America. This should be required listening for everyone, especially in light of current political conversations.
The Popcast
From the show: A weekly pop culture podcast seeking to education on things that entertain, but do not matter. Friends, if you only try out one podcast in your entire life, it needs to be this one….ok, caveat, you’ll need to have a deep appreciation for all things ridiculous and silly. Jamie and Knox are a delight (with a capital D) and Wednesdays cannot come fast enough so I can listen to each week’s new episode. If you have a guilty pleasure of reading People Magazine behind your copy of Tolstoy then you will not be disappointed.
Start with Episode 160: The Nos of Fall or Episode 170: The New Nos of Christmas. Lighthearted snark that brings to light some of the terrible pop culture phenomenons of the season.
Do you listen to podcasts? Which ones made your 2016 list? I’d love to hear suggestions of what I should add to my list for next year! Leave a comment below.
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[…] Podcast Recommendations for 2016 – In case you need something new to listen to this year, here are some of my favorites. […]