Podcasts are great ways to keep up with the news, or set up a good routine to your day. They're informational, help pass the time, and sometimes can get a good laugh out of you, to the point where they can just be as good as the next greatest TV show. And with the podcasting scene at an all-time high in terms of popularity, it can be intimidating trying to disseminate which podcasts you should listen to. Here are 7 podcasts to get you started:
1. "The Daily"
A sticky note praising "The Daily" host Michael Barbaro for keeping them informed.
Instagram: @xolp
The New York Times' daily podcast is perhaps the best podcast for any podcasting novice. Unlike other podcasts, it doesn't necessarily feature the top headlines for its cover stories. And if it does, it does so that it isn't too overbearing like you would see on traditional television. Each episode unpacks some of the most disputed stories of the day in an impartial manner, which is, after all, what The New York Times is known for.
New episodes premiere Monday-Fridays at 6am ET.
2. "Up First"
An iPad playing NPR's "Up First"
Instagram: @garyseanmullings
Indeed, "The Daily"'s documentary-style approach to cover stories isn't for everyone, and that's where NPR's "Up First" comes in. NPR is an institution in podcasting, and their expertise in the field as well as in journalism comes together in this 15-minute daily rendition of the headlines you need to start your day. Think of it as your morning news on-the-go.
New episodes premiere Monday-Fridays at 6am ET.
3. "TED Radio Hour"
"TED Radio Hour" plays on a car radio
Instagram: @erush520
TED Talks are always inspiring. And NPR recognized this and thus "TED Radio Hour" was born. Each episode revolves around a certain theme or subject and compiles a list of TED Talks that talk about said theme. Every episode I've listened to has not disappointed and host Guy Raz has a compelling way of bringing you into the conversation.
New episodes premiere every Friday.
4. "What's the Tee with RuPaul and Michelle Visage"
RuPaul and Michelle Visage with actor Adewale Agbaje
Instagram: @michellevisage
The "Drag Race" duo have delved into the podcasting game with their fun, watercooler show. Both Ru and Michelle have the power to turn the most mundane topics into some of the most fascinating conversations you'll hear. They're just as fun to listen to as much as they are to watch.
New episodes premiere every Wednesday.
5. "Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard"
Dax Shepard and Monica Padman chat with guest Ben Platt
Instagram: @daxshepard
Actor Dax Shepard would be the last person you may think to have a podcast. But believe it or not, he does and both he and co-host Monica Padman may as well deserve their own late-night talk show. Like RuPaul and Michelle Visage, Shepard and Padman have this ability to have great conversations about virtually any topic, especially with their star-studded guest lineup.
New episodes premiere varyingly each week.
6. "TED Talks Daily"
The TEDx stage in Calgary, Alberta
Instagram: @tedx_official
"TED Talks Daily" is essentially "TED Radio Hour" but in bite-sized format. Everyday, the TED editors handpick an inspiring TED Talk that talk about science, lifestyle, politics, medicine, and everything in between. Regardless of what they post, each episode will inspire you for the day.
New episodes premiere daily.
7. "Today, Explained"
The cover art for Vox's "Today, Explained"
Instagram: @ilikeyourpod
Vox Media has their own daily podcast but instead this podcast premieres at the end of the day. Vox incorporates its more "hip" and contemporary approach to journalism into the audio format with "Today, Explained". Consider this a more "postmodern" approach to "The Daily".
New episodes premiere weeknights.
