Podcasts have become a popular medium for learning and personal development, offering a wealth of knowledge on a variety of topics. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply looking to make productive use of your downtime, educational podcasts can be a fantastic way to expand your knowledge and stay informed. Here are some of the top educational podcasts across different fields to help you broaden your horizons.
1. TED Talks Daily
Description: TED Talks Daily brings the best of TED’s conferences to your earbuds. Each episode features a different speaker covering a wide range of topics, including science, technology, psychology, and culture.
Why Listen: The podcast offers insights from some of the world’s leading thinkers and innovators, providing inspiration and new perspectives on a variety of subjects.
2. Stuff You Should Know
Description: Hosted by Josh Clark and Charles W. “Chuck” Bryant, Stuff You Should Know delves into fascinating topics, from historical events to scientific phenomena, in a conversational and engaging manner.
Why Listen: The podcast provides well-researched, informative content on a diverse range of subjects, making it an excellent resource for curious minds.
3. Freakonomics Radio
Description: Hosted by Stephen Dubner, Freakonomics Radio explores the hidden side of everything, using economics as a lens to understand human behavior and societal issues.
Why Listen: The podcast offers intriguing insights into everyday phenomena and controversial topics, making complex ideas accessible and entertaining.
4. Radiolab
Description: Radiolab, hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, investigates a wide array of topics through a mix of storytelling and scientific inquiry.
Why Listen: Known for its innovative approach to journalism and storytelling, Radiolab explores philosophical and scientific questions in a thought-provoking and engaging manner.
5. The Daily
Description: Produced by The New York Times, The Daily provides a deep dive into major news stories and current events, offering comprehensive analysis and context.
Why Listen: The podcast keeps you informed about global and national news, with insightful reporting and interviews that offer a deeper understanding of current affairs.
6. Science Vs
Description: Hosted by Wendy Zukerman, Science Vs pits facts against popular myths and misconceptions on a variety of topics, from health to technology.
Why Listen: The podcast provides evidence-based analysis of trending topics, helping listeners separate science from pseudoscience and make informed decisions.
7. How I Built This
Description: Hosted by Guy Raz, How I Built This features interviews with entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders who share the stories behind their successful ventures.
Why Listen: The podcast offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a business, making it a great resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in business stories.
8. The EdSurge Podcast
Description: The EdSurge Podcast explores the intersection of technology, education, and the future of learning. Hosted by Jeff Young, it features conversations with educators, entrepreneurs, and technologists.
Why Listen: The podcast provides insights into the latest trends and innovations in education technology, making it a valuable resource for educators and those interested in the future of learning.
9. Stuff You Missed in History Class
Description: Hosted by Tracy V. Wilson and Holly Frey, this podcast explores lesser-known historical events and figures, providing detailed and engaging narratives.
Why Listen: The podcast offers a deep dive into intriguing historical topics that may not be covered in traditional history classes, enriching your understanding of the past.
10. The History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps
Description: Hosted by Peter Adamson, this podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the history of philosophy, covering major thinkers and ideas from ancient times to the present.
Why Listen: The podcast offers an accessible and detailed exploration of philosophical concepts and historical developments, making it ideal for anyone interested in philosophy.
11. The Infinite Monkey Cage
Description: Hosted by physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince, The Infinite Monkey Cage explores scientific topics with humor and expert commentary.
Why Listen: The podcast combines entertainment with scientific insights, featuring discussions with leading scientists and thinkers on a wide range of topics.
12. WorkLife with Adam Grant
Description: Hosted by organizational psychologist Adam Grant, WorkLife explores topics related to work, productivity, and the future of work with a focus on evidence-based strategies.
Why Listen: The podcast provides practical advice and insights into improving work life and organizational culture, making it useful for professionals and leaders.
13. The Art History Babes
Description: Hosted by a group of art historians, The Art History Babes delve into various aspects of art history, theory, and criticism with a conversational approach.
Why Listen: The podcast offers an engaging and accessible exploration of art history, making complex topics enjoyable and understandable.
14. The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish
Description: Hosted by Shane Parrish, The Knowledge Project features conversations with experts and thought leaders on topics related to decision-making, mental models, and personal growth.
Why Listen: The podcast offers valuable insights into improving decision-making and personal development through discussions with knowledgeable guests.
15. The Psychology Podcast
Description: Hosted by psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman, The Psychology Podcast explores topics related to psychology, mental health, and human behavior with leading experts in the field.
Why Listen: The podcast provides in-depth discussions on psychological research and its applications, offering insights into understanding and improving mental health.
16. Pod Save America
Description: Hosted by former Obama staffers Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor, Pod Save America offers commentary on political events and policy issues with a progressive perspective.
Why Listen: The podcast provides insightful analysis and discussions on current political events, helping listeners stay informed and engaged in politics.
17. The Big Think
Description: The Big Think podcast features interviews with prominent thinkers, including scientists, authors, and business leaders, discussing big ideas and contemporary issues.
Why Listen: The podcast offers thought-provoking conversations on a wide range of topics, providing diverse perspectives and innovative ideas.
18. The Moth
Description: The Moth podcast features people from all walks of life sharing true, personal stories live on stage. The stories range from humorous to heart-wrenching and everything in between.
Why Listen: The podcast offers compelling storytelling and a glimpse into diverse experiences and perspectives, providing both entertainment and insight.
19. The Vergecast
Description: Hosted by Nilay Patel, Paul Miller, and Verge editor-in-chief, The Vergecast covers the latest in technology, gadgets, and digital culture.
Why Listen: The podcast provides up-to-date news and analysis on technology trends and innovations, making it ideal for tech enthusiasts.
20. Unorthodox
Description: Hosted by Mark Oppenheimer, Unorthodox explores Jewish culture, religion, and current events with a mix of humor and insight.
Why Listen: The podcast offers engaging discussions on Jewish life and culture, featuring interviews with guests from various backgrounds and perspectives.
