Podcasts

Podcasts are so great! Hopefully by 2011 you all know what a podcast is, but if not, it's basically a digital media file -- could be a story, music, radio show, talk show, whatever -- that is downloaded to your mp3 player for on-the-go enjoyment. There are thousands of podcasts available to satiate all your listening desires. If you've never checked them out, I highly recommend it. Here are some of my favorites and suggestions in no particular order:

This American Life
Most weeks This American Life is the most popular podcast in the country, with more than a half million people downloading each episode. It has won all of the major broadcasting awards. There’s a theme to each episode, and a variety of stories on that theme. It’s mostly true stories of everyday people, though not always. There’s lots more to the show, but it’s sort of hard to describe.


Planet Money Money makes the world go around, faster and faster every day. On NPR's Planet Money, you'll meet high rollers, brainy economists and regular folks -- all trying to make sense of our rapidly changing global economy.


Savage LoveCast The intro tune sings, "When you're stuck in a relationship quandary or you're looking for sexual harmony...There's nothing you can't ask on the Savage LoveCast," and they are NOT kidding about that. This is a call-in advice show with Dan Savage, American author, media pundit, and popular sex columnist. Dan's hostility towards social and cultural conservatism is my favorite part. Warning: explicit content


All Songs Considered brings you an eclectic mix of fresh music by emerging and breakout bands and musical icons. You'll inevitably find some new favorites!


StoryCorps is an independent nonprofit whose mission is to provide Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share, and preserve the stories of their lives. They aim to remind one another of our shared humanity, strengthen and build the connections between people, teach the value of listening, and weave into the fabric of our culture the understanding that every life matters. This podcast is always less than 10 minutes so it's perfect for short drives.


Science Friday is a weekly discussion of the latest news in science, technology, health, and the environment hosted by Ira Flatow. Ira interviews scientists, authors, and policymakers, and listeners can call in and ask questions as well.