Podcasts are hidden gems of this time.
Ok maybe they’re not so hidden, but they’re definitely gems.
If you think about it, they’re not much different than old time radio shows. My mom and dad have told stories about listening to radio shows growing up, but it always seemed like such a foreign concept to me until podcasts came around.
Podcasts, like the old radio shows, tell stories, keep you coming back every week, and there’s no visual element to them.
They’re undeniably different from the radio, however, in more ways than one. You have your choice of podcasts to listen to, you can listen on your headphones while making dinner, and the show notes can remind you of things mentioned that you might want to reference later (a book, company, article to read, etc).
I think the best part though, is listening to the sound of someone’s voice as they speak.
I think the best part though, is listening to the sound of someone’s voice as they speak.
You get to hear how they enunciate words in their sentences and listen to the almost melodic way their voice sounds. While I really enjoy reading, there is something special about hearing the way someone talks (rather than writes) about a subject.
I’ve only been listening to podcasts for a few years, but I thought I’d share 4 podcasts to add to your library.
4 podcasts to add to your library
1. Beating 50% (Formerly known as Behind the Scenes)
This is the first podcast I started regularly listening to a few years ago. Produced by Jeremy and Audrey Roloff (you may recognize their names from the tv show Little People Big World), the podcast talks about a wide variety of subjects such as simplifying your life, education, and personal stories about the couple. Check out episode 60 which is a discussion with John Mark Comer about the ruthless elimination of hurry (his book by the same name).
2. Simple Farmhouse Life
I’ve been following Lisa Bass on her blog and youtube channel the last few years, but she recently started a podcast and it is a gem! She makes all things cooking and crafting seem straightforward and tangible which is a lot considering she talks about fermenting foods, cooking with cast iron, and sewing your own clothes. She’s inspired me to try my hand at making kefir too (hello more fermented food!). As sourdough is all the rage right now, check out episode 29 (Sourdough FAQ – Answering all your burning questions!) for a great intro to sourdough.
3. Speaking with Joy
I must admit, I’ve only listened to a few episodes of this podcast, but I discovered Joy Clarkson by reading a book she wrote with her mom and sister (Girls’ Club). Because I enjoyed her writing and personality, I thought I’d listen to her podcast and she is truly a smart, deep, and thoughtful individual. Much of her podcast is about books, art, and music, and how these bring deep joy and gratitude into our lives. The first episode I listened to was episode 40 The Celtic Way (which features her sister, Sarah Clarkson). It’s a refreshing listen and sure to bring a smile to your face.
4. The Good List
I discovered Tsh Oxenreider not by her podcast, but by her blog, The Art of Simple. I enjoyed her concepts and writing so much that I thought I’d check out her blog (and, like I said, I love to hear the voice behind the writing). Tsh talks every week about what is on her good list (hence the name), and often interviews others about their good list. Check out episode 39 about creating seasonal playlists. This is such a fantastic idea and something I’m going to try this year!
These are just 4 podcasts to add to your library, but there are literally hundreds of podcasts out there. If you haven’t listened to any before, I’d highly recommend starting with these episodes!
Maybe you’re like me and you like slowing down through cooking, talking about books and music, or finding gratitude in life everyday. Or maybe you prefer political commentaries or unsolved real-life mysteries.
Whatever it is, I hope you find a chance to start listening to podcasts, taking time away from your screen and using your ears and mind to listen, think, and imagine.
What podcasts are you listening to? Leave me a comment and let me know some of your favorites!
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