A Giant List of Amazing Podcasts (Part 2)

In my last post, I started to scroll through my podcast feed and outline what I listen to on a regular basis. I didn't realize the list was so long, so I decided to break it up. I've already covered sports and photography topics and started to delve into the grab-bag of otherness. I'll continue that here:

NPR: StoryCorps
Everyone you meet has a story. But how often do you get to hear that story? StoryCorps consolidates extraordinary tales from a cross section of humanity. They're presented in first-person voice and digested to bit-sized chunks (under 7 minutes).

99% Invisible
A weekly story digest with a bent toward design and architecture. When I say "architecture" I mean 20 minutes on what kinds of businesses move into former Pizza Hut locations. And you know exactly what I mean because every Pizza Hut has that look. Which is exactly the point. It's really more about entertaining stories than highly intellectual content, which is how I like it.

Good Job, Brain!
Because we all need more trivia in our lives. Here's a wonderful hour-long (approximately) dose of random facts, questions and interesting looks at the background or context for obscure pieces of knowledge you have tucked away. You're sure to learn something interesting, as well as something you'll never need to know again. Most of all you'll get to enjoy some spirited conversation.

Travel with Rick Seteves
Another public radio aligned podcast, this weekly program whisks you around the globe, taking a look at both well-known and obscure locations (sometimes an obscure part of a well known location). It often features local voices sharing context, history and that brand of knowledge that only comes from actually living in a place. Even if you never plan to travel, it's an entertaining listen. If there's a chance you will set out at some point, this podcast may help you shape the kind of adventure that fits with you passions.

PodCastle
Did you know you can find podcasts that are pure fiction? That's exactly what PodCastle is about (and kudos to them on snatching up such a clever name before anyone else). Billed as "The world's first fantasy audio magazine," You're treated to episodes that share compelling fiction stories. It's like having free brief audiobooks at your fingertips. You can stock up on back episodes for extended listening and look forward to new content on a regular basis.

Escape Pod
Another brilliant name, so you know it must be from literary minds. A weekly science fiction podcast magazine, Escape Pod also highlights short stories geared toward a science fiction audience. This in not a subject I delve into deeply during my personal reading, but I do enjoy in audiobook format. These episodes are exceptionally well produced and really keep me entertained for big chunks of time. I'll often start one in the car and end up finishing it while I make dinner or putter around the house.


As you check these out, keep a couple of things in mind:

1. All these podcasts are being offered to you for FREE. How awesome is that?!?!
2. Think about ways you can support the podcasts you truly enjoy. In some cases you'll likely hear the hosts talk about sponsors who are helping them out. Find a way to utilize these services and be sure to enter the promo code for the podcast you love (if available) so they can get credit. In some cases there may be a way to support the podcast directly, if you prefer that option. 
3. Even if you're not into sharing your dollars, yen or bitcoins you can still help out. Post positive ratings on the iTunes Store (or through whatever mechanism you find these shows). Share your favorite podcasts with friends to help grow the audience. You can even share feedback with the shows directly. In many cases these shows may seem bigger than they actually are. I've had emails/comments read on Photofocus, The Tony Kronheiser Show and a couple Afterbuzz TV podcasts... and in many cases I had nothing intelligent to say!