Anyone else feel like they’ve hit a podcast drought lately? I was barely two weeks into quarantine when I realized I’d listened to every episode of my favorite shows. It was time for some new material. While I love music, podcasts have been an amazing way to make the most of my free time; I love how they can turn something brainless into an opportunity for personal development or a good laugh. Every week, I try to listen to a wide variety of shows while I’m doing the dishes or laundry at home, running errands, making a long drive to see family, or going for a walk around the neighborhood.
By just listening, I can get my daily dose of quick knowledge, explore random interests, or access wisdom from some of the most successful people of our time.
And since most episodes run for an hour or less, it’s crazy how fast you can plow through tons of episodes across a myriad of topics. If you too have been searching for some new listens, look no further. We’ve rounded up a few of the best new podcasts we’re loving right now. Leave a comment with any that you’re currently hooked on!
featured image: sudio
Unlocking Us – Brené Brown
We all could use a little more Brené Brown in our lives, and it was about time that she came out with a podcast of her own. She’s been a favorite guest on many of the top-ranked shows like The Tim Ferriss Show, On Being with Krista Tippet, and Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard. In her new show, she interviews various subjects from writers to actors to go deep on what it means to be fully human.
Be Well By Kelly – Kelly Leveque
When it comes to all things nutrition, Kelly LeVeque is our go to gal. Tune in for a weekly dose of motivation and health and wellness tips. In her new show, she interviews leaders from the wellness space like Dr. Josh Axe about topics like intermittent fasting, hormones, eating a balanced diet and more.
The Sakara Life Podcast – Sakara Life
I’ve always admired the wellness company Sakara for their plant-based meals, and had no clue they just launched a podcast as well! They are big believers that food is medicine, and take wellness a step further with their wide-ranging episodes that explore the intersection of science and spirituality.
Sugar Calling – The New York Times
Writer Cheryl Strayed knows a thing or two about advice. If you’ve read the book “Tiny Beautiful Things”, or her widely successful New York Times advice column “Dear Sugar”, you know how gifted the woman is with words. In this show, she chats with some of the writers who inspired her along the way like Margaret Atwood, Amy Tan and Judy Blume.
Radio Headspace
If you’re looking for a quick mental reset, Radio Headspace is where it’s at. Every episode is 6 minutes or less, but they’re packed with positivity and help you start the day on the right foot.
Rabbit Hole – The New York Times
Kevin Rose explores how the internet is shaping who we are. He launched this audio series in the middle of quarantine, pointing out that it might be the best time to explore “this strange ecosystem we all now inhabit — and figure out how, and why, it’s changing who we are.”
Code Switch – NPR
This show is hosted by journalists of color and brings you real, brave conversations about race. If you’ve been wanting to listen and learn about how you can join the conversation, this podcast is for you.
image via apple podcasts
The Zane Lowe Interview Series – Apple Music
This podcast explores the lives of different musicians and the stories behind their songs. I haven’t listened to this one myself yet, but the Justin Beiber and Lady Gaga episodes are said to be favorites of this show.
image via npr
Up First – NPR
Up First is a series of short 10 minute “most important news stories” from NPR. If the news has been giving you anxiety, this podcast will keep you informed without getting sucked in.
image via apple podcasts
The Happiness Lab with Laurie Santos
Dr. Laurie Santos is a professor of psychology at Yale university, and is known for her studies on the science of happiness. This podcast is a nice look into the psychology behind the way we think about happiness and how to change our perspective.
Six Feet Apart with Alex Wagner
This new podcast explores different aspects of the pandemic and how those are being affected, from retailers to government agencies, to influencers and sports teams.