Since "Serial" hit the scene, podcasts have been growing in popularity, after years of remaining just below the "mainstream." Whether or not you've listened to "Serial", you don't want to miss out on the new entertainment sensation that's sweeping the nation, particularly the 20-something audience. Here are some other podcasts to which you should be subscribed.
1. Another Round with Heben and Tracy
Heben and Tracy, of the internet news giant Buzzfeed, drink bourbon and keep it real on "Another Round." With guests like Margaret Cho and Valerie Jarrett (Obama's senior advisor), their tipsy banter includes serious questions about squirrels, social justice, and what the president smells like. If you need to be reminded to love yourself and buy a wallet, look no further.
2. Sword and Scale
For true crime addicts and legal buffs alike, "Sword and Scale" is a tough, gritty podcast that spares no detail. Not for the faint of heart, "Sword and Scale" uses real courtroom recordings and exclusive interviews with witnesses to tell true crime stories you've probably never heard of. Prepare to be captivated.
3. All Killa No Filla
History has never been so fun (and creepy). We've all heard just about every serial killer story there is, but you've probably never heard those stories told by two hilarious British women. The indie production quality of this podcast gives it a live-performance-in-a-bar feel. Trust me, you'll never laugh as hard at serial killer tales as you will with Rachel Fairburn and Kiri Pritchard-McLean.
4. Reply All
Whether you're a tech geek or not, chances are "Reply All" will keep you laughing and learning. PJ Vogt and Alex Goldman talk all things internet and manage to be funny while doing it. Their podcasts are just over 30 minutes — perfect for your morning commute.
5. Lore
Aaron Mahnke, a fiction writer with a passion for the art of storytelling, delves into folklore and the origins of fear in "Lore." This podcast gives you a dash of history and some mild spooky vibes. "Lore" explores global cultures and what unites all human beings — stories.
6. Criminal
"Criminal" is interested in the trends and psychology behind crimes themselves. Some episodes feature a particular crime or criminal, but other episodes focus on a criminal phenomenon. Every episode, however, is fresh and unexpected. Their website also has cool illustrations for every episode.
7. This American Life
"This American Life" is currently #4 on the iTunes Podcast charts. Ira Glass hosts the perfectly quintessential podcast. Every episode has a theme that the show interprets both literally and loosely. If you don't like one episode, just wait until the next week. "This American Life" delivers a wide variety of stories and ideas. Subscribing to this also makes you look astute and mature, which is always a good thing.
