The Podcasts We’ve Been Listening to Lately

Rabbit Hole
New York Times tech columnist Kevin Roose delves into the impact the Internet – and all the weird, wonderful and often dark and disturbing corners of it – has on our lives. Only three episodes have been released so far, but the story of Caleb, a young man who spends far too much time on YouTube and seemingly ends up indoctrinated by it, is fascinating.

This seven-part Audible series unravels the effect the tech industry has had on pornography and those involved with it. It sounds like an odd premise for a series – but best-selling writer Jon Ronson, who has a knack for telling the stories of the uncanny, is behind it after all. In his own words, The Butterfly Effect “isn’t judgemental or salacious. It’s human and sweet and strange and lovely.” It’s also true to Ronson’s unique storytelling style – it made me laugh, brought tears to my eyes and of course, challenged the way I think.

This podcast is great for music lovers. Musicians pick songs and piece by piece, tell the story of how they were made. It’s fascinating and so insightful and just shows how personal and unique songwriting is. Guests include Lorde, Solange Knowles, The National and Alt-J. I also love that its edited to cut out all the interviewer’s questions, so that it feels like these musicians are speaking to you one on one in a really intimate way.

Revisionist History by Malcolm Gladwell
Malcolm Gladwell can make even the most mundane things sound interesting. Honestly, I could listen to him for hours. In each episode Gladwell dives into some obscure topic and presents it in a new light. Topics include a psychological analysis of Elvis Presley, the paradox of political satire and the debate over what makes McDonald’s fries taste good.

I Weigh with Jameela Jamil
If you haven’t heard of her before, Jameela Jamil is a huge advocate for body neutrality. She’s recently released a podcast, interviewing performers, activists, leaders and friends about shame, vulnerability and body image. It’s a refreshingly honest look at the way we value each other in society and I always come away having learnt a lot about myself and the world around me.

Hamish & Andy
If you’re in need of a good laugh, look no further than the Hamish & Andy podcast. As the name suggests, it’s hosted by best buddies Hamish Blake and Andy Lee, arguably Australia’s best-known radio and TV comedy duo. It’s recommended you begin at the start of the series, otherwise it might be difficult to understand the format and in-jokes that have developed over time. While it took them a few episodes to find their feet after they transitioned from radio, it’s well worth sticking with!