It’s 2021… You Need to be Listening to Podcasts.
It’s a radio show! It’s a stand-up set! It’s an interview! No, it’s a podcast; and babe, you need to be listening.
It’s been exactly a year since I first tested the waters of the vast world of podcasting, and to say the least, it’s changed my life. Hearing other people I respect discuss an array of topics from politics to reality TV recaps has changed both the way I view other’s opinions and how I view certain topics. Any educator worth their salt will tell you, listening to others opinions is almost, if not more, important than speaking your own. As a friend, I’ve been told that I’m a good listener. I take the utmost pride in hearing that from people I love and respect. To be honest, I had never received that compliment as often as I did this past year, and I give all the credit to listening to podcasts. It takes a certain strength to listen to others express their opinions while not being able to voice yours in real time. In addition to the incredible dynamic listening “training” tuning into podcasts provides, it also allows the listener to be exposed to an array of topics. One of my favorite reality TV shows, RuPaul’s Drag Race, has countless recap podcast shows hosted by a variety of contestants, drag experts, and comedians. Another one of my most frequently visited categories of podcasts are “self-help” oriented, speaking on subjects such as friendships, journaling, finding peace and inner child work. Whether I’m looking for escapism, self-reflection, or a good laugh, podcasts always provide.
I’m not the type to tell you my opinions are best; do whatever makes you happy! However, here are a few pretty universal genres:
Self-help: The work starts inside, hon. Working on yourself is the best way to attract everything you want for your future. Podcasts in this department come in a range of self-help: listening to others work through problems similar to your own, advice from an older sister, hosted by a licensed therapist, etc. All great, all worth a listen.
Recap Shows: Listening to others re-cap your favorite show is a great way to hear others opinions about the latest plot-twist, newest cast announcement, or hilarious catchphrase from the token “one-liner” producing cast member.
Comedy: Need a pick-me-up on a long commute or after a long day of school? Comedy is the perfect way to 180º your day. Personally, I think comedy podcasts are perfect to listen to in the car or on a run. Makes me forget about the 2 miles I have left!
Interview-based: Podcasts in this genre have introduced me to other great podcasts, instagrams to follow, and new celebrity crushes! Interview-based podcasts are a great way to get an introductory insight into a new celeb or a more in depth conversation with your favorite internet personality. Either way, podcast interviews, especially if guided by a great interviewer, allow a certain kind of connection unparalleled by other forms of media.
Meditation: Can’t sleep? Need to calm down after a stressful day at school or work? Decompressing with your favorite meditation host is the way to go. Personally, I can get into a yoga/meditation session in the morning. Try it out!
Below, I’m sharing my 6 current favorites to get you started on your listening journey. If you’ve already indulged in the luxury of podcasting, feel free to take my recommendations and add them to your library! (All podcasts listed can be found on both Apple Podcasts and Spotify)
Anything Goes- Host: Emma Chamberlain
Looking for big sister advice from one of the internet’s most down-to-earth celebrities? Emma’s got you covered. Uncovering the true emotions behind mental health, young adult struggles, friendships, relationships, and living in the 2020’s. Chances are, you’re not alone; Emma does a fantastic job of showing mental health in an honest, compassionate light. First Listen recommendation: “Advice Session #12”
The Bald and the Beautiful- Co-hosts: Trixie Mattel & Katya Zamo
These 2 larger than life drag queens consistently provide 45 min-1 hour 30 min manic comedy, interviews, and scream-laughing matches, guaranteed to make you hunch over in laughter. With a more serious undertone of all things beauty: the beauty standard, self-love, and finding beauty in everyday life, Trixie & Katya find a way to make everything a laughing matter, in the best way possible. First Listen recommendation: “Believing in Milk & Cookies with Trixie and Katya”
Seek Treatment- Co-hosts: Catherine Cohen & Pat Regan
New York City based comedian best friends Cat & Pat are here to talk to you about “Boys, Sex, F***king, Dating and Love” as they know it. Interviews, anecdotes about life in the city, letters for help, and complaining about self-tapes make this podcast just like sitting in the taxi with your new NYC besties. First Listen recommendation: “This Episode Is My Love Letter to Google” (Letters For Help)
Sibling Rivalry- Co-hosts: Bob the Drag Queen & Monét X Change
My 2nd favorite drag queen duo is here to have the important conversations. When they’re not arguing for 12 minutes over who remembers ____ correctly, (it is called sibling rivalry…), Bob and Monét are discussing current topics like Transracialism, the 2020 Presidential election, and Pride month, to name a few. The combined hilarity and eloquence of these slightly controversial drag queens sparks thought and laughter with every episode. First Listen recommendation: “The One to Listen to First”
Unhinged- Host: Chris Klemens
One of my newest obsessions, Delaware-native Chris Klemens cracks my sh*t UP, every episode, without fail. Out of pocket voicemails, irreverent comedy and superstar guests round out this podcast as one of my go-to’s if I need a good laugh. First Listen recommendation: “Ending the Internet (with Brittany Broski)”
IN HINDZSIGHT- Host: Hindz
The calm cadence of host Hindz of the YouTube channel HINDZSIGHT definitely calms the mind and the spirit. Short soundbites that cover all things spiritual, self-awareness, and things of that nature re-orient your mind to the important things in life. My daily make-up routine perfectly syncs with one of Hindz’ beautiful conversations on mindfulness, definitely worth a listen! First Listen recommendation: “high grade awareness.”
Happy Listening!xoxo, Maddie
**disclaimer: created as of September 18, 2021. Not affiliated with any topics discussed, political opinions, or otherwise polarizing content made previous to and/or after Sept. 18, 2021 on any of above listed podcasts. Recommendation to listen for entertainment only.
