Lazy days of summer often bring on nostalgic childhood memories of reading or listening to stirring stories. Yet for many, time is not on one’s side when it comes to enjoying this pastime. With this said, podcasts are the ideal way to enjoy catching new anecdotes. Whether gearing up for a long car ride for a family vacation or simply needing something to listen to during your daily commute, podcasts are an effortless way to eliminate boredom.
Podcasts truly have something to offer to everyone. Like talk radio, they usually feature a host/hosts discussing a specific subject at hand. Topics can range from today’s news to true crime; from interviewing special guests to profiling famous musicians; from sharing historic moments captured in time, to premiering an audio play, today’s podcasts do it all. Episodes can vary in length, too. Some of the shortest last just five minutes, while others may go on for hours, enabling all to be able to settle into the story.
Since summer is already dwindling down, now is a perfect time to investigate and try out a few. Regardless of whether you are new to the “podcast scene” or already have an arsenal of beloved ones, check out this top five list, sure to entertain, as well as quell the childhood thirst for thrilling stories.
PODCAST #1: “This American Life”- The first podcast to ever win a Pulitzer Prize for Audio Journalism, “This American Life,” is a timeless podcast that offers an entertaining themed experience. Each themed episode features both true and fictional American stories told by a variety of journalists. Hosted by American radio personality Ira Glass, the show has been heard by more than 2 million listeners each week, on over 500 public radio stations in the U.S. Released every Sunday night, each episode will leave listeners entertained, as well as inspired by these remarkable stories from ordinary American citizens.
PODCAST #2: “Serial”- From the creators of “This American Life,” this podcast, hosted by Sarah Koenig, exploded onto the scene with its first season. In season one, Koenig, an American journalist, investigated the true crime case of Adnan Syed, a teen convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend. Each season features one true story, which is then broken down into individual episodes. The current season explores the topic of race and public schools in New York City.
PODCAST #3: “Griefcast with Cariad Lloyd” – Unfortunately, many have experienced some form of loss. Whether it is the loss of someone close, or the loss of a relationship, the pain this loss can bring can be blinding. This pod helps all view the various ways one can handle the overwhelming feelings. In this down-to-earth and surprisingly uplifting podcast, host Cariad Lloyd interviews comedians about grief, loss, and the unique situations that occur because of that time.
PODCAST #4: “Song Exploder” – What is also now featured on Netflix, this podcast explores the origin of famous and beloved songs. Ideal for music fans, each episode is focused on asking famous artists to delve into the specific decisions that went into creating their work. Produced and edited by host and creator Hrishikesh Hirway in Los Angeles, the series features stories from Fleetwood Mac, Billie Eilish, U2, Metallica, Solange, Lorde, Yo-Yo Ma, The Roots, Bon Iver, and more.
PODCAST #5: “Forsyth Magazines Podcast”— We could not end this list without mentioning our very own podcast, appropriately titled, “Forsyth Magazines Podcast.” Headed by our publication’s hard-working publisher, Brooke Eagle, this podcast first aired in January of 2020. It focuses on highlighting all things local—from area small businesses, new as well as established nonprofits, and upcoming community events. Brooke has enjoyed leading this venture, which as of today has aired over 60 episodes. A new one is released every Thursday.
When asked if she had one specific episode that she enjoyed the most, Eagle said it was almost impossible to pick one. “One that comes to mind was Joy Nelson, the founder of LEAD Girls of NC, one of my favorite non-profits.” The devotion behind this nonprofit is what really got to Brooke. “She is so passionate about what she does and it’s the only episode where I got a little emotional while recording.” Tune in to Brooke as she discusses a variety of local businesses and topics on the “Forsyth Magazines Podcast,” available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with a link to listen via their Instagram account @forsythmags.
