Podcasts that Inspire Me

I listen to a lot of podcasts. I travel a lot, and sometimes music just doesn't cut it. I want something more immersive. That's where podcasts come in.

Podcasts are great to listen to when doing tasks that don't require much concentration, such as folding and putting away laundry, cleaning, and getting ready for work. My favorite app for podcast listening is the default Podcasts app for iOS. I know a lot of people also swear by Stitcher, but the default app is fine by me.

Whether you're a podcast fan looking for new shows to listen to, or a first-timer who has no idea where to start, here are some podcasts that inspire me.

This American Life

This podcast is one of the first I ever listened to. It's also one of the best. In this podcast, host Ira Glass introduces stories based on a theme, told by people just like you. The storytelling is phenomenal, and it's great to hear so many different life experiences. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone and everyone.

Serial

Brought to you by the producers of This American Life, Serial is another true story podcast, but with a thrilling twist: the first season follows the investigation of a complex murder case. Host Sarah Koenig digs up new evidence in the murder of student Hae Min Lee and the conviction of her ex-boyfriend Adnan Syed. This podcast is not only entertaining, but also raises questions about the U.S. justice system and its procedural integrity. If you love crime dramas, this is the show for you.

Welcome to Night Vale

The Welcome to Night Vale podcast is one of the strangest I have ever listened to. Inspired by the works of author H.P. Lovecraft, this show tells the story of a small desert town called Night Vale, a local radio host named Cecil Palmer, and the bizarre occurrences surrounding the community. I have no idea how else to explain this podcast to you. All I know for certain is that you should listen to it.

Stuff You Should Know

Unlike most podcasts, I only listen to select episodes of this one. Likable hosts Josh and Chuck cover a variety of topics from Amelia Earhart to haunted house attractions. Not all the episodes interest me, but the ones I've listened to have been fantastic. This show is ideal for trivia fans and anyone who wants a more in-depth look at the world around them.

There are several other podcasts I enjoy, but these four are the ones that I listen to the most. They regularly entertain me and ignite the spark of inspiration. If you're looking for podcasts, download these first.

How do you feel about podcasts? Which ones do you like to listen to?