Variety Is Spice Of Podcast Life

Reader Vicki Taylor Penny is a big fan of podcasts and once again shares some of her current favorites with us.

‘Wind of Change’

Host: Patrick Radden Keefe

Did the CIA pen the 1990 hit song “Winds of Change” by the Scorpions? It sounds crazy, until it doesn’t. Follow the host into the shadowy world of spy craft, covert operations and its affect on the human psyche.

All the episodes are worth a listen.

‘Son of a Hitman’

Host: Jason Cavanaugh

Some people are just evil. Charles Harrelson is one such person. He also happens to be the actor Woody Harrelson’s father. This 10-part series follows an investigative reporter as he assists the Harrelson family in finding the truth about their father’s past.

Begin with:

Chapter 1: All He Has Done

Chapter 2: Everybody Liked Charlie

Chapter 3: A Mobster, A Murderer, and A Bookie

‘Dodge That Bullet’

Host: Adam Stark

Can Arkansans of different ages and stages in life converse on the tough topics of the day and still remain friends? In each episode, Adam Stark proves it is possible and important to listen with an open mind and without judgment. Raw and lively, with an ever evolving cast of guests, taking the listener on a personal quest to identify their core beliefs. And they review movies, documentaries, and pop culture, to keep it fun.

Try these:

Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls: The Last Dance

Church Talk and Other Ramblings Braveheart

‘Snap Judgment Presents: Spooked’

Host: Glynn Washington

If you enjoy a chilling ghost story, this is for you. The stories are told by the people that experienced the unexplainable. Thrilling, mind-blowing, entertaining, and, of course, terrifying. Not for the faint at heart. Story recommendations:

The Trespassers

Santi

The Watcher

‘Nothing Much Happens’

Host: Kathryn Nicolai

So you took my advice and listened to “Spooked” and now you can’t sleep? This podcast is designed to help you. A story is told, twice. Once at a regular speech rate. The second time, slower. Nicolai is a yoga and meditation teacher with the perfect set of skills to relax the mind and ease you into a calm, peaceful night’s rest.

Recommended episodes:

A Dance In The Park Old Houses

All Day, At Home

‘Ted Talks Daily’

Host: Elise Hu

Think a little deeper or learn something new. A daily talk on a variety of different topics including, “The Real Reason You Procrastinate,” or “10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation.” Each short vignette enlightens and entertains.

Jump in with:

Can We Edit Memories

The Cost of Work Stress

How Boredom Can Lead To Your Most Brilliant Ideas

‘You’re Wrong About’

Hosts: Michael Hobbes & Sarah Marshall Many historical topics we know all about. After all, we lived it! When the spotlight is no longer bright, the hysteria calms down, the details become clearer. Topics range from the serious, like the O.J. Simpson trial or the D.C. Sniper, to the lighter debates, such as did Yoko Ono break up the Beatles.

Try these:

Tonya Harding Part 1 and 2

The Exploding Ford Pinto

Stranger Danger

‘The Bitter Southerner’

Host: Chuck Reece

Beautifully produced and homed in Georgia, it covers the Southern existence, with an honest view of the past, present, and future. The storytelling has the feel of a back porch chat with a tall glass of sweet tea. Order Waffle House, find a comfortable seat, and enjoy!

Suggestions:

The Ways of Waffle House

The Underserved Gift: Okra

What We Talk About When We Talk About How We Talk

‘Outside Podcast’

Host: Christopher Keyes

“The Outside Podcast” is about the challenges that have been faced in the great outdoors. The brave, the foolish, and the in between. The stories are shared by the people involved.

Recommended:

The Only Time It’s OK to Jump Off a Chairlift The Switch in Your Brain That Turns Down Stress Dispatches: The Wrong Way to Fight Off a Bear