Srsly
The New Stateman podcast where journalists Caroline Crampton and Anna Leszkiewicz have a chat about their favourite parts of pop culture and take it in turns to give each other a new TV show, album, book (and so on) to try out for the first time so they can discuss it together the next week.
What is so special about this podcast is that they are having a sincere discussion about topics that are often trivialised, and it is wonderful to listen to a conversation where pop culture - from Harry Potter to Kanye West - is taken (as the title suggests) seriously.
My Dad Wrote a Porno
When James Morton found out his 60-year-old father had written a soft-core porn novel, he pulled together two of his friends, (Radio 1 presenter Alice Levine and producer James Cooper) and reads it to them chapter by chapter in this hysterical podcast.
It is laugh out loud, tears in your eyes hilarious due to James's dad's (only known by his pen name Rocky Flintstone) unintentional hilarity in his novel 'Belinda Blinked', and the trio's reactions to the sheer ridiculousness is absolutely priceless. Be warned though: you may do yourself an injury trying not to laugh out loud when listening in public.
Welcome to Night Vale
Any X-Files fans out there - this one is for you. The podcast is set like a radio show for the town of Night Vale, where strange things happen. The radio announcer's ominous warnings about life in Night Vale ("It is possible you will see Hooded Figures in the Dog Park. Do not approach them. Do not approach the Dog Park.") begin to take form into a story, and our only advice would be not to listen to this just before bedtime. Just in case.
Wooden Overcoats
Wooden Overcoats is the critically lauded comedy podcast from the Daily Telegraph in which the synopsis reads: "On the overlooked Channel Island of Piffling, obstinate undertaker Rudyard Funn runs his family’s failing funeral parlour. But when new and sexy undertaker Eric Chapman sets up shop across the square and becomes an immediate sensation, Rudyard realises he’ll have to take drastic steps to stay in business. With his frustrated sister Antigone, dogsbody Georgie, and a mouse called Madeleine, will Rudyard ever defeat his charming rival?"
If you love watching TV shows, this is definitely one for while you're on the move!
How Did This Get Made?
The League actor Paul Scheer, actress June Diane Raphael and actor Jason Mantzoukas meet to discuss terrible movies which, in their opinion, should absolutely not have been made. Joyfully ripping the films apart, coming with the 'WTF' moment where they discuss the worst moment in every movie, this is a must-listen for anyone who hate watches terrible films (and let's face it: that is EVERYONE).
This American Life
As the original podcast before it's spinoff Serial went crazy, if you were a fan of the podcasts of podcasts this is not one to be missed. The podcast isn't just about crime, it picks a theme and rolls with it every week, from strange events to pop culture discussions. You'll never have to worry about running out of episodes either, since it is currently on its 580th episode.
TedTalks
If you're a fan of TedTalks, a collection of presentations from the world's smartest people, you're in for a treat for your commute. There is an audio version of the talks you can download for free and listen to those experts in their field teach you all about the most insane stuff and expand your mind and interests. With no episode lasting more than twenty minutes, this will keep your attention and is perfect for those short journeys.
Still Buffering
Join sisters Sydnee McElroy and Rileigh Smirl as they discuss teenage trends from yesteryear and today. With a solid age gap between them, their opinions about parties, Valentine's Day, sex ed (and so on) will give you a nostalgia trip AND an insight into the minds of the crazy kids these days. The podcast is relatively new, with only five episodes so far, so listen now to catch up right from the very start!
Criminal
The creepy yet fascinating podcast which focuses on a new true crime story every episode. With a similar vibe to Serial, told in a storytelling format with a hint of drama, the stories will keep you hooked despite lasting less than twenty minutes a time. If you spent the whole of the Serial podcast waiting to find out what REALLY happened, this is definitely the one for you.
Unexplained
If you are one for swapping spooky tales about missing people, unsolved mysteries and bizarre coincidences, this is the one for you. The bi-weekly podcast only has 2 episodes so far, but the X-Files vibe and the poker faced explanation of these chilling stories will keep you hooked. The first story focuses on the mysterious death of Netta Fornario, an occultist who was seeking ascension - and it will keep you up at night.
What are your favourite podcasts? Tweet us @sofeminineUK!
You might like...
15 TV Shows Every Girl Is Guilty Of Watching
10 Amazing Novels Perfect For Any Harry Potter Fan
10 Crime Thriller Novels Any 'Girl On A Train' Fan Will Love
