Commuting can be a drag, but a good podcast can transform that time into something enjoyable and even productive. Whether you’re driving, riding the train, or walking, a captivating podcast can make your journey fly by. Here are some engaging podcast picks for your daily commute that will keep you entertained and intrigued throughout your travels.
The Daily by The New York Times
“The Daily” offers a deep dive into one major news story each day, providing context and insights that you might not get from a headline. Hosted by Michael Barbaro, this podcast is known for its high-quality journalism and in-depth interviews. Each episode is around 20 to 30 minutes long, making it perfect for a commute.
Beyond just news, “The Daily” explores the human stories behind the headlines. You’ll hear from the journalists who report the stories, adding a layer of personal experience and expertise. This podcast helps you stay informed and connected to the world around you, making your commute both enlightening and engaging.
Crime Junkie
If you’re a fan of true crime, “Crime Junkie” will quickly become a staple in your podcast rotation. Hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat share gripping stories of unsolved mysteries, serial killers, and creepy cases. Each episode is meticulously researched, providing listeners with a comprehensive look at some of the most fascinating crimes.
What sets “Crime Junkie” apart is the hosts’ ability to tell stories in a way that feels like a conversation with friends. The episodes are engaging and often leave you on the edge of your seat, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of suspense during their commute.
How I Built This
Hosted by Guy Raz, “How I Built This” features interviews with entrepreneurs and innovators who share their journeys of building successful businesses. From the humble beginnings to the challenges faced along the way, these stories are both inspiring and informative. Each episode provides a unique perspective on what it takes to build something from the ground up.
Listening to “How I Built This” during your commute can be incredibly motivating. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or simply love hearing about creative problem-solving, this podcast offers valuable insights and lessons from some of the most successful people in various industries.
TED Radio Hour
The “TED Radio Hour” takes some of the best TED Talks and explores the ideas in greater depth. Hosted by Manoush Zomorodi, each episode revolves around a central theme and features excerpts from TED Talks as well as interviews with the speakers. The result is a rich and thought-provoking experience that can make any commute more intellectually stimulating.
This podcast is perfect for those who enjoy learning about a wide range of topics. From science and technology to art and philosophy, “TED Radio Hour” covers it all. The engaging format and diverse subjects ensure that there’s always something new and interesting to discover.
Armchair Expert
Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” is a delightful mix of humor, vulnerability, and insightful conversations. Dax, along with his co-host Monica Padman, interviews celebrities, authors, and thought leaders, delving into their lives and experiences. The relaxed and candid style of the show makes it feel like you’re listening to a conversation among friends.
What makes “Armchair Expert” stand out is its ability to balance lighthearted banter with deep, meaningful discussions. The wide range of guests ensures that each episode brings something new to the table, making your commute entertaining and thought-provoking.
Stuff You Should Know
“Stuff You Should Know” is a podcast that dives into a variety of topics, explaining how things work and the history behind them. Hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant tackle subjects ranging from historical events to everyday phenomena, making learning fun and accessible. Their easygoing style and natural curiosity make each episode a joy to listen to.
This podcast is perfect for curious minds who love to learn new things. The diverse range of topics ensures that there’s always something interesting to discover, making your commute an opportunity to expand your knowledge in an enjoyable way.
The Joe Rogan Experience
“The Joe Rogan Experience” is one of the most popular podcasts in the world, known for its long-form interviews and wide range of guests. From comedians and musicians to scientists and politicians, Joe Rogan’s show covers a vast array of topics. The open-ended format allows for deep and often unexpected conversations.
Listening to “The Joe Rogan Experience” during your commute can be like sitting in on a fascinating conversation. The diversity of guests and subjects means that there’s always something new to learn, and the in-depth discussions provide plenty of food for thought.
Radiolab
“Radiolab” is a podcast that explores scientific and philosophical questions in a highly engaging way. Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, the show uses storytelling, interviews, and sound design to create an immersive listening experience. Each episode delves into complex topics, breaking them down in a way that is both entertaining and informative.
This podcast is ideal for those who enjoy deep dives into fascinating subjects. Whether you’re interested in science, history, or the human experience, “Radiolab” offers a unique and compelling way to explore the world around you during your commute.
The Moth
“The Moth” features real people telling their own stories live on stage. These stories range from hilarious to heartbreaking, each one offering a glimpse into the storyteller’s life and experiences. The raw, unfiltered nature of the stories makes for a powerful listening experience.
Listening to “The Moth” can make your commute feel more connected to the human experience. The diverse range of stories and the emotional depth they often reach can be both uplifting and thought-provoking, providing a rich and engaging way to pass the time.
My Favorite Murder
For true crime enthusiasts with a sense of humor, “My Favorite Murder” is a perfect fit. Hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark share their favorite murder cases, blending true crime with comedy. Their witty banter and candid discussions about serious topics create a unique and engaging podcast.
“My Favorite Murder” is more than just a true crime show; it’s a community. The hosts’ genuine friendship and the way they interact with their fans add an extra layer of enjoyment. This podcast is great for those who want a mix of suspense, humor, and community during their commute.
Freakonomics Radio
“Freakonomics Radio” explores the hidden side of everything, using economics as a lens to examine everyday phenomena. Hosted by Stephen Dubner, the podcast delves into topics that range from the mundane to the profound, all with a quirky, analytical twist. Each episode is well-researched and offers surprising insights into how the world works.
This podcast is ideal for listeners who enjoy thought-provoking content that challenges conventional wisdom. The engaging storytelling and unique perspectives make it a fascinating way to pass the time on your commute, providing both education and entertainment.
Revisionist History
“Revisionist History,” hosted by Malcolm Gladwell, re-examines events, people, and ideas from the past that have been overlooked or misunderstood. Each episode offers a fresh perspective on historical events, uncovering new insights and challenging established narratives. Gladwell’s engaging storytelling and meticulous research make for a captivating listening experience.
This podcast is perfect for those who love history and enjoy questioning the status quo. “Revisionist History” provides a deeper understanding of familiar topics and introduces listeners to new, often surprising, stories from the past. It’s a great way to make your commute both informative and intriguing.
The Tim Ferriss Show
In “The Tim Ferriss Show,” host Tim Ferriss interviews world-class performers from various fields to uncover the tools, tactics, and routines they use to achieve success. From athletes and entrepreneurs to artists and scientists, the guests share their insights and experiences in detailed, in-depth conversations. Ferriss’s interviewing style is both engaging and informative.
Listening to “The Tim Ferriss Show” during your commute can be incredibly motivating and educational. The practical advice and personal stories shared by the guests provide valuable lessons and inspiration, making it a perfect companion for anyone looking to improve their life and work.
Invisibilia
“Invisibilia” is a podcast about the invisible forces that shape human behavior. Hosted by Alix Spiegel and Hanna Rosin, the show blends narrative storytelling with scientific research to explore topics such as emotions, beliefs, and perceptions. Each episode delves into fascinating aspects of human psychology and the unseen influences that drive our actions.
This podcast is ideal for those who are curious about the intricacies of the human mind and the hidden factors that affect our lives. “Invisibilia” provides a deep and engaging listening experience, making your commute a time for reflection and discovery.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer news, true crime, inspirational stories, or intellectual deep dives, there’s a podcast out there to make your commute more enjoyable. These shows offer a great way to stay entertained, informed, and inspired while on the go. So, plug in your headphones and let these podcasts transform your daily journey into something you look forward to.