Hey everyone, I'm trying to help a friend who's new to podcasts and wants some solid podcast recommendations. They're open to any genre but want something engaging that will really hook them. What are your must-listen podcasts that you'd suggest to a beginner? I'm looking for shows that are easy to get into but also have enough depth to keep them coming back.
For someone just starting out, I always recommend Serial season 1. It's basically the gateway drug for podcast listeners. The storytelling is so compelling and it really shows what the medium can do. After that, This American Life has great variety episodes that help new listeners figure out what genres they might like.
If they're into comedy, Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend is super accessible. Conan's interview style is hilarious but also genuinely curious, and the episodes are the perfect length. For something different, 99% Invisible about design is fascinating even if you don't think you care about design.
I'd add The Daily from NYT for news. It's daily so there's always new content, episodes are around 20 minutes, and the production is top notch. For true crime beginners, Criminal is great because it's thoughtful and each episode is standalone so no huge commitment.
Don't forget Radiolab! It's been around forever but the way they blend science, philosophy, and storytelling is still magical. The early episodes especially show what audio can do. Also Heavyweight for beautiful human stories that aren't too heavy emotionally.
For tech curious beginners, Reply All back catalog is amazing internet stories. Shame it ended but the old episodes hold up. Stuff You Should Know is also great because they cover literally everything and the hosts have such good chemistry.
The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green is beautiful and thoughtful, each episode reviews different aspects of human experience. Also You're Wrong About for revisiting cultural moments with more nuance. Both are engaging but not overwhelming for new listeners.