Who says learning has to end when you leave the classroom. If you haven’t jumped on the podcast train yet, it’s time you did. Listening to podcasts on your commute, while walking to class, or while doing mindless tasks like exercising or cleaning can help you learn something new when you least expected it. All these shows are guaranteed to expand your mind and teach you about a subject you never knew about before. Next time you need to fire up a new podcast, consider one of these 6 best podcasts to learn something new.
99% Invisible
99% Invisible is about all the thought that goes into the things we don’t think about — the unnoticed architecture and design that shape our world. It’s perfect for the questions you might ask yourself while daydreaming — from “What’s the worst smell in the world?” to “Where does stuff that gets lost in the mail go?”
On Being with Krista Tippett
On Being tackles the not-so-simple topic of spirituality by interviewing scientists and theologians, artists and teachers. Her conversations cover what it means to be human, while exploring faith, belief, science, philosophy, art and everything in between. It’s been around for 15 years, so there are plenty of fascinating episodes to catch up on.
Radiolab
Radiolab is a superbly-produced podcast with excellent use of sound, for a truly sensory experience while exploring scientific mysteries. Every episode feels like an adventure into the unknown. Learn about things as simple as colors and complex as space in this show. If it’s something you’ve wondered about it, it’s probably been covered.
Hidden Brain
Hidden Brain helps curious people understand the world – and themselves. Through science and storytelling, the show reveals the patterns that drive human behavior, our choices, and what directs the course of our relationships. It’s fascinating to learn more about how your own brain works and why you do the things you do, like deep fears of losing money or a tendency to romanticize the past.
Happier with Gretchen Rudin
Her book and blog on happiness only scratches the surface on this author’s exploration of the topic. This podcast centers around cultivating happiness through building good habits – and how to avoid bad ones. If you’ve been wondering how you could be happier in your life, or are looking for ways to kick a bad habit, the show offers tangible ways to achieve it all.
Codebreaker
You don’t have to be a techie to enjoy this cast. As a co-production of Tech Insider and Marketplace, it offers smart storytelling on popular tech subjects.
“Codebreaker” asks big questions about technology’s impact on our world. The first season began with three simple words: “Is It Evil?” Ben Johnson, the host, asked that question of internet porn, virality online, and even software updates — diving deeper into these subjects that you likely have before.
Which of these podcasts most interest you? There is such a wide world of shows out there, you’re sure to find something that strikes a fire in you. Happy listening!