1. Not sure you're into podcasts?

'Serial'

Wait… you haven't heard of it yet? If you're confused, I will briefly explain what is commonly referred to as “the gateway podcast". The first season centers around an investigation of the ghastly manual strangulation of an 18-year-old girl. The most influential individual in this series is Adnan Syed, the ex-boyfriend of the victim, who was convicted of first-degree murder and has been imprisoned for half of his existence, despite the insane lack of evidence convicting him. The mystery will lure anyone – from meek podcast virgins to the most avid listeners – into a real-life story about American justice and truth.

Best Episode: “Season 1, Episode 1: The Alibi"

2. Want to feel intellectually ~deep~?

'Philosophize This!'

Okay. I realize that a historical analysis in Greek thinkers and worldviews might sound like a hum-drum-damper on your drive. I get it. But, this podcast makes a point of applying profound contemplations to today's modern ears. The show's mantra says it all: “Thank you for wanting to know more today than you did yesterday".

Best Episode: “#095 …Are you living in a simulation?"

3. Like variety?

'The Jenna And Julien Podcast'

If you have ever been on YouTube, you have probably seen something from Jenna Marbles or Julien Solomita, known for widely differing videos such as How to trick people into thinking you're good looking and MASSIVE BLUE UFO OVER LOS ANGELES 11-7-15 [HD]. Based in Los Angeles, this adorable couple has taken to a different platform so that their unrestricted dialogues may be heard for hour-long segments. And it justworks. If you are in the mood for something random with a certain je ne sais quoi, look no future than this podcast.

Best Episode: “Podcast #56 – The Importance of Kanye and Unfiltered Voices"

4. Feeling political?

'NPR News Now'

There is no denying it: hearing about current events can be overwhelming. However, the solution should not be opting for easy ignorance and apathy. Here is where “NPR News Now" comes in. As a relatively unbiased source ofinformation about what is happening in the government, the podcast tells you what to know, but not how to think. Next time you are driving, educate yourself as our democracy relies upon you – because it does.

Best Episode: Whatever the latest episode is, they update hourly!

5. Want to melt your brain?

'Invisibilia'

NPR's “Invisibilia", the meaning “all of the invisible things" in Latin, explores the ethereal influences that shape human behavior, like dreams, beliefs, and feelings. All that good psychological junk. Sink your teeth into these long episodes and start cruising.

Best Episode: “Future Self"

6. Need a good chuckle?

'2 Dope Queens'

The title refers to hilarious best friends: Jessica Williams and Phoebe Robinson who are the stars of this podcast. Uniquely, each episode takes place in front of a rowdy audience whilst these funny ladies tag team with their comedian-buddies. Join them for chronicles about race, relationships, and everything in between on your next road trip.

Best Episode: “#41 Never Ghost Abbi Jacobson"

7. Want to be spooked?

'Lore'

Sometimes it suits us to embrace a darker side. This podcast elicits an experience that feels like listening to scary stories around a nighttime campfire. Here you can find haunting episodes about urban legends like werewolves and apparitions for your next fright night drive.

Best Episode: “23 – Rope & Railing"

8. Want two new best friends?

'And That's Why We Drink'

Christine and Em, A.K.A. the two greatest LA millennials you will ever meet. They pour themselves into research on the darker sides of humanity while pouring themselves a drink (wine and milkshakes, respectively)! Even if you are not into the main topics of discussion, (i.e. true crime and paranormal activity), you will fall in love with how each person blossoms in her particular lifestyle. Despite the frightening subject matter, these two make you feel all the warm and fuzzy emotions of being curled up in a blanket while telling scary stories at a sleepover with your besties. Not kidding, I've listened to them gab every single day on the bus ride to my 8 a.m classes.

Best Episode: "39: A Girl Named German and La La Land 1 1/2"