I’ve always wanted to do a podcast. I have no idea what theme I would produce it on, or how I’d get the time to do it, but I wanted to. Instead, I just listen to them as one of my primary forms of being entertained. Podcasts are great ways to be entertained, challenged, or to just learn. And I use them for all 3.
I have a few I listen to consistently. They may not be the best out there, but they are my favorites. Here they are:
Nerdist – this is the one I’ve listened to the longest. Helmed by Chris Hardwick, it goes from deep, meaningful conversations to outright goofy diatribes. Occasionally, we are even treated to the co-hosts Matt Mira and Jonah Ray, although that’s become a rarity. I enjoy it, only having been bored less than a handful of times. It’s a good listen.
Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History – I love learning history, and learning of the existence of this podcast just reignited that flame. This podcast is easily the most riveting podcast I’ve listened to. Released only every few months, these run often 4 or more hours. Although Dan claims that he is not a professional historian, this podcast certainly proves otherwise.
The Joe Rogan Experience – Yes, the same Joe Rogan from Fear Factor and now commentator for the UFC. I am not “subscribed” to his podcast, instead cherry picking his guests. He releases several times a week and they are often 2+ hours long. Sometimes I skip due to the topic, but mostly because I just don’t have the time. He’s awesome at being able to talk to just about anyone and is not afraid to challenge the ideas of his guests if needed. He’s probably one of the best hosts I’ve heard. Just be ready to skip the first 6 or so minutes… his ads do drag.
Grammar Girl – this one has been a huge help for some of those silly grammar rules. Mignon Fogarty does a great job spelling out (pun intended) some of the more vague rules, as well as the basic rules in writing and grammar. These are quick (10 to 15 minutes) and generally once a week. A great pick for students or anyone wanting to just be better with their grammar.
Waking Up with Sam Harris – Despite the hours of Sam’s diatribes against Trump (I am no fan either, but at some point it becomes tiring), Sam is one of the most articulate and intelligent hosts out there. I found him initially after seeing a debate between him and a religious fundamentalist. His episodes are generally very thought provoking and filled with ways to get you thinking. There’s been a few times he’s disappointed me, but that doesn’t happen often.
Very Bad Wizards – this is a new one thanks to Sam Harris’ episode featuring these guys as the guests. They are fun and engaging so far, with filthy humor… (which is a plus!) I’ve only heard a little bit so far, but it was enough to drop into the rotation.
I’ve Made a Huge Mistake – this one’s up here not only because I know the guy behind it, but because it is a good show. I’ve made the mistake (pun again intended – always intend the pun!) listening to it and suddenly believing I was just having a conversation with one of the hosts: Warren (who I’ve known him for a few years, and his wife even longer).
Honorable mentions:
These are the podcasts I listen to less frequently, but I still keep an eye out for them:
Revolution Health Radio – A good podcast on health and diet. The host, Dr. Chris Kresser can sound dry at times, but the episodes are loaded with good information. I cherry pick these episodes mainly because discussions will go into ailments that I have no real exposure to, so the learning is wasted on me.
Startalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson – He’s usually my favorite guest on a podcast, but I haven’t been able to get into the podcast version of his show as much. I listen periodically, throwing in an episode when I am lacking stuff to listen to.
The Tim Ferriss Show – Tim is a super-achiever. I am working on that. So occasionally I will throw in episodes of this podcast. This is Tim probing hyper-successful people for what they do that makes them successful. Need I say more?
What are some podcasts you like to listen to?
Jeremy C Kester 
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