For a long time, I exclusively listened to music while cooking. And if I’m testing a hardcore recipe that takes a lot of concentration, I’ll most likely turn the music down so I can focus. And sometimes Billy and I will be cooking and testing and instead of listening to anything we just gossip and talk about the latest episode of Real Housewives (the upcoming New York season looks GOOD) so we listen to, well, each other.
But lately, when I’m by myself, I’ve been listening to LOTS of podcasts. I also blame a bit of it on my Sweat with Kayla app where I go on four (40-minute) walks a week with Amelia. I’ve really come to enjoy that time and I cherish it so much. Here are a few podcasts that I’ve been into lately:
1. You Must Remember This. Narrated and written by Karina Longworth. A film critic/writer (I used to read her work in LA Weekly) tells stories about old Hollywood; her most recent season is all about "Dead Blondes." All of her episodes are told from an interesting point of view. The three-part episode on Marilyn Monroe made me really sad. They’re beautifully narrated, filled with tons of facts and research. And it makes me empathize with all of them in ways I hadn’t before. I’m currently on Jayne Mansfield and man, do I wish I could go back in time and help her. Lol.
2. S-Town. You’ve probably heard but Serial/This American Life has a new podcast and it is GOOD. I’m only like three episodes in but the main character, John Macklebee, is fascinating. A lot of people compare it to a Southern Gothic novel and I would agree.
3. Call Your Girlfriend. I listen to it almost religiously on Fridays when I go on morning walks with Amelia. I love it because it’s topical, and yes, it talks about politics but in a sort of funny, dealing-with-it kinda way (I sorta/kinda gave up on Pod Save America bc it bummed me out). And then they talk about other things like Beyonce and bras and dudes. It really feels like a range of topics I speak to my very best friends about.
4. My Favorite Murder. Ok, don’t listen to this while you’re driving all by yourself from Palm Springs to Los Angeles at 11pm at night all hopped up on coffee. It will creep you the eff out! That’s what happened to me so it took me a week or so to dive back in and it’s so fascinating but also SUPER CREEPY!
5. Terribly Funny with Steve Basilone - The idea is simple: a podcast where funny people talk about terrible things. Sounds a bit like a downer but actually it's really funny and interesting and makes me feel oddly comforted.
Other podcasts I listen to on occasion: The Daily, Tall Tales, Fresh Air, Modern Love, Pod Save America, With Friends Like These (the first episode is great!), Missing Richard Simmons (wtf was up with that lame ending?!!?)
What podcasts are you loving/should I try out?!
Mari says
You should try Latinos Who Lunch- two ridiculously funny and smart friends who serve up all the chisme on food, pop culture, and current events from young Latinx perspective. If you enjoy CYG or The Read, you'll love them!
Paula L says
Dear Sugar Radio! DSR and CYG are the two podcasts I cannot miss. The first is like going home to your mom's house for the weekend and getting a massive non-judgemental hug and chat, and the second is like hitting up your bestos for wine and chats. Cheryl Strayed is an incredible, warm-hearted, articulate advice-giver and boy has she LIVED. And Steve Almond is basically her in male form. Start listening now and do the whole back catalogue on those walks!
Autumn says
Some personal faves are Criminal, Radiolab and Crimetown. I love You Must Remember This.
kelli winter says
I have tried so many podcasts to listen to while in the kitchen. I am a baker. I make hand pies. I make all of the dough one batch at a time, by hand. I need entertainment while I do this. This American Life can be good, but I am totally stuck on Spilled Milk. Those guys have ruined me on all other podcasts! It's two folks chatting about a type of food, but it's hilarious! They get off topic constantly and are a great duo. My mom calls the show " giggles & giggles.
Bailey says
Love this post! Two of my favorites- cooking and podcasts! I have been into Nerdette, She-Expores and Women of the Hour. Excited to check out some new ones!
Sarah says
Podcasts are my JAM! I particularly love to listen to The Simple Sophisticate in the mornings to start my day off right. I think my favorite of all time is Stuff You Missed In History Class. Some other really great ones are The Land Of Desire, Awesome Etiquette and Lore.
Jennifer says
Thanks for this list. I'm always looking for podcast recs. You must listen to Lore. It's about urban legends and real life events. Super creepy in a good way!
Nicole says
The Model Health Show! Lots of great info about health and fitness, but in an easy-to-understand kind of way. And Shawn's voice is soothing and his producer Jade (who chats alongside him) is so lovely!
JC says
I hate MFM. The banter is annoying. If you really want a well-done true crime podcast, I recommend In The Dark. My Dad Wrote A Porno is hilariously ridiculous but it's very NSFW. I also love This American Life, Radiolab, Malcolm Gladwell's Revisionist History and More Perfect.
Jacq Lives Here says
I can't do MFM because of the banter either! It was driving me nuts, that I basically had to skip the first 20-40 minutes of each ep to get to the actual start of the podcast...
Chi (shy) says
Listen to the Friendzone! It's marketed as mental health, and well being, BUT you're more than likely going to laugh the ENTIRE time! The hosts are honest, funny and have real conversations, while also recapping Little Women Atlanta. I LOVE it!!!