A podcast a day keeps the boredom astray...
- Katriya Ross
- Jun 20, 2020
- 6 min read
Updated: Jun 21, 2020
Podcasts are my go-to. They teach me new perspectives, help me unwind or tune in. I used to listen to them daily when commuting. Nowadays they are my not so guilty pleasure when hanging up the washing, cleaning, doing errands or on my daily walks. I hope these enrich your days as much as they have mine.
My Current Top Ten
Multi-award-winning masterpiece. George is one of the greatest minds and innovators of our generation. I've always loved his spoken word and commentary, and somehow he has managed to combine the two in a seamless mesh of storytelling and music. Listening to this feels more like an audio movie, rather than a podcast.
George covers politics, racism, drill music, the Libyan refugee crisis, Grenfell, colonialism, the boundaries of language and more with skilfullful insight and sensitivity. One of the few podcasts that moved me and stuck long after the episode came to an end. Start at series 1, episode 1 and listen in chronological order to follow the storyline.
Get ready to go to therapy. No, really. Esther is an incredibly talented therapist who takes you through real therapy sessions with real couples and family members. Throughout the session she pauses to explain what is happening; why they are reacting in certain ways as well as explaining her own actions in the session.
Incredibly insightful and heartfelt. While the idea sounds quite depressing I found the podcast beautiful and authentic. I've learnt so much, had many revelations of my own and really felt like I was in my own therapy session by listening. Her last series was exploring how couples were dealing with lockdown across the world.
Kara Loeintheil is a master 'thought coach' who uses cognitive behavioural therapy techniques to teach you how to reprogram your mind. This isn't one of those empty motivational videos; Kara gives you practical examples and techniques to use and explains everything in an incredibly helpful and thoughtful way.
She covers everything from anti-racism, imposter syndrome, jealousy, money and beyond. Although this is aimed at women, it really is a universal resource. Kara also gives out free workbooks for each episode so you can practise applying.
One of those, 'this will change your life' podcasts. Can't recommend it enough for any and everyone.
4. Mostly Lit
Mostly Lit, meaning 'mostly literature', is another multi-award-winning podcast. Lead by Londoners Raifa Rafiq, Alex Reads and formerly Derek Owusu. They discuss books, films, culture and current affairs and explore how these all intertwine.
My go-to for book recommendations, from classics to what's new, they break down their reviews in hilarious and relevant commentary. Especially great for becoming more aware of the breadth of talented black British writers who are more often that not overlooked.
5. The High Low
An unexpected gem. The High Low is a weekly podcast discussing 'highbrow' and 'lowbrow' culture between writers Dolly and Pandora. Initially, I thought I would find this podcast difficult to relate to; listening to two seemingly posh, middle class women, but I was pleasantly surprised.
Dolly and Pandora host a brilliantly down to earth, heartwarming show sharing beautiful quality content, while never failing to take the piss out of themselves or take themselves too seriously. Their self awareness, kind and reflective approach make for a lovely listen with some great recommendations of articles and reads I would not otherwise have come across.
Alhough wellbeing is splashed all over social media, being truly vulnerable in all aspects of life is still taboo. Writer and advocate of vulnerable and authentic conversations, Allysa Rochelle, has created a safe space to explore this in all its forms. Each week a special guest joins Rochelle to explore how they have grown from some of their most vulnerable experiences and how these have shaped their wellbeing practise today.
A wide range of topics are covered from fatherhood, white privilege, childlessness, boundaries and hyper masculinity. Enlightening, with many pearls of wisdom and always relatable, in one form or another.
We are all familiar with Russell Brand from his former comedic days and headlines. Who knew underneath it all was a modern day philosopher and monk? I can't help but think that Russel Brand's spiritual enlightenment was for the betterment of society.
With some incredible guests from all walks of life, an underlying theme weaves through the various topics of our need to be connected, community and the importance of a purpose or higher power.
But don't worry, this podcast is not just love ,light and airy fairyness. Brand examines all aspects of society, the media and other factors that play a part in the world we know it, and is intelligent enough to par with some brilliant minds, as well as controversial ones.
The podcast is now on Luminary, however all previous available episodes are still on all free streaming sites, with occasional bonus free episodes.
I like to think of Meet Us After 7 as the 'middle ground' between '3ShotsofTequila' podcast and 'The Receipts' podcast.
Gina, Yusuff and the mysterious Brent (behind the scenes, who usually contributes on the pod) discuss and debate current events, popular culture and more from their unique personal perspective.
I really enjoy the balance of a women's and men's perspectives. This is a great everyday listen and has grown to be a favourite.
9. hey, girl.
Another soothing listen with plenty of wisdom. Writer Alex Elle has centred this podcast on sisterhood and storytelling. Her guests include a variety of women who inspire her, including family, friends and more.
A key focus is wellness and the many forms this transpires such as financial freedom, self care, play and joy.
Amy Houldey is a life coach who has created this podcast focusing on self discovery for curious humans.
A breath of fresh hair from the 'go go go!' hustle culture we find ourselves in. Amy explores the pressures of parenthood, following an acceptable 'successful career' path, 'anti-hustle' culture, understanding and beyond.
Just starting its second series, I can't wait to see all that is to come!
Old Favourites
1. The Receipts
Every woman (and men) need to listen to this if you don't already. Audrey, Milena and Tolly T are the big sisters you wished you had. I've cried countless times with laughter and gone through the motions with their dilemma episodes.
The men's equivalent of The Receipts. Keith, Marv and Tazer discuss everything from UK culture, current affairs and their escapades over the years. Don't listen to this if you don't want to burst out laughing on the tube (or daily exercise) nowadays.
Officially known as Say Your Mind, unofficially known as SYM. Kelechi Okafor speaks on everything from current affairs, society and pop culture. Not one for the faint hearted, Kelechi lays everything bare in the realest way possible while somehow remaining hilarious. My favourite section is where she hands out her 'straw of the week' to the person most deserving to STM.
Jessie Ware and her Mother are a brilliant duo. Going back to table manners they host a meal from their own dinner table for their wide circle of friends, discussing all things food and life. A kind and funny listen, their guests have ranged from Munroe Bergdorf, Jojo, John Legend and Neneh Cherry.
A lovely, calming podcast of storytelling and wisdom. Nneke Julia takes you on her journey 'passing through' various locations on her travels, conversations and stages of life. Occasionally featuring other talented storytellers, I like to listen to this podcast when slowing down and reflecting.
I came across this podcast when I was having trouble sleeping with restless thoughts. In short, this is a wonderfully comforting podcast of bedtime stories for grown ups, where nothing much happens. There is something really special about these stories; host Kathryn Nicolai describes them as 'a soft landing spot for your mind'.
Next on my List
Highly recommended to me by an avid traveller, backpacking friend of me. The Big Travel Podcasts explores various peoples interesting life experiences through travel.
'The Big Travel Podcast finds out what it is about travel that inspires us, makes us laugh, love, cry, and sometimes cringe, yet above all keep travelling'.
What a brilliant varied list! Thank you for sharing 💛