Most of us love the time of day when we can quietly sit and be alone with our thoughts. Maybe it’s when your in your car, or early in the morning before everyone wakes up, or even a long hot soak in the tub (our favourite!).
However, some days require a little distraction. Podcasts have turned our mobile devices into the ultimate content delivery system for those times when we want to block out the world. Get ready to laugh, learn, or just zone out. Just don’t drop your phone in the bath!
Here are some of our favourites that are easily available through free podcast apps (like iTunes, Stitcher, or BeyondPod).
TED Radio Hour
This podcast from the popular TED Talks is sure to get you thinking. It covers a large range of topics from genetics to creativity and features some of the most gifted minds in their various fields. You are guaranteed to start looking at the world differently.
Radio Lab
This podcast may be about science, but it’s never dull. The production offers a rich soundscape and creative editing that produces stories that are engaging and fun.
Stuff You Should Know & Stuff You Missed in History Class
Stuff You Should Know and it’s history based sister podcast are charming as they are interesting. Both shows take a casual approach to investigating different topics. The tone is conversational and never stuffy.
This American Life
From Chicago Public Radio, This American Life is one of the most listened to podcast in the world. The unparalleled storytelling and investigation goes deep into peoples lives and, despite the name, across borders.
Song Exploder
Song Exploder is a must for music lovers. Each episode dissects a song one track at a time so you can better understand how music is made.
Wits
This variety show is a product of Minnesota Public Radio and is recorded from live performances. It features comedy, music, games, and celebrity guests. Their dramatic readings of 1 star Amazon reviews are worth the download on their own.
The Thrilling Adventure Hour
This show is self-described as a “new-time podcast in the style of old-time radio.” The show features several serial stories including a space western, a hobo version of Cinderella and a married couple that reluctantly solves supernatural disputes. Always funny and sometimes touching, this show has it all. It also has a star studded roster, including Nathan Fillion, John Hodgman, Emily Blunt, Neil Patrick Harris and a ton of others.