Give it a listen: Best podcasts

BY DARIAN SABLON

Although a relatively recent audio phenomenon, podcasts have exploded in popularity. On iTunes alone, the number of available podcasts has jumped from 10,000 in 2008 to over 250,000 by 2013. Every day, more and more people are turning to podcasts as alternatives to what can sometimes feel like a generic music industry. In order to navigate the ever-growing community of creators and free an entertainment, a top four list has been created to act as a guide for readers.

4. “Human Ordinary”

Produced by Sam Loy, “Human Ordinary” is a podcast that, according to its creator, explores “what it means to be human.” Episodes talks about topics ranging from the meat industry and what it’s like to be a vegetarian in a carnivore-centered world to death and how different people deal with having lost a loved one. Although very somber and at times depressing, “Human Ordinary” gives its listeners a chance at introspection and provides new perspectives that challenges one’s beliefs. It’s a great podcast to listen to on a long walk or when feeling especially curious about the world and the people in it. Although episodes are only released once a month, there are 13 episodes available right now for new listeners to dig their teeth into.

Listen here: http://humanordinary.com/

3. “TOFOP”

Hosted by comedian Wil Anderson and actor Charlie Clausen, “TOFOP” is a comedy podcast that invites its listeners to “join them for conversations of little to no consequence.” “TOFOP” is a hilarious experience for anyone willing to listen to random things for an entire hour, including but not limited to time travel, Elon Musk secretly being a villainous mastermind, the dark story behind fast food mascots and Dolph Lundgren. Yet somehow, Wil and Charlie somehow make it work. They have excellent chemistry and bounce off each other easily, most likely a product of having known each other for over a decade. It’s a fun experience for anyone who’s on the search for a new comedy podcast. It’s released weekly, but not on any specific day which leaves the audience guessing.

Listen here: https://www.tofop.com/

2. “The Dollop”

“The Dollop,” created by comedians Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds, takes listeners on a journey through the fascinating, albeit depressing and often morally ambiguous story of the United States of America. The episodes talk about topics such as P.T. Barnum, the Butter Crime of the 1930s and the Missouri Mormon War amongst other things that make the U.S. the country that it is. Giving their comedic take, Dave and Gareth uncover the parts of American history often ignored in textbooks, not only teaching but also giving listeners an amazingly fun experience at the same time. It’s a great listen for  history buffs, but can be enjoyed by anyone. “The Dollop” is released every Tuesday and new fans have a large back catalog to listen to.

Listen here: http://thedollop.libsyn.com/

1. “The Weekly Planet”

With the rising interest in superhero movies and comic books, it can often be overwhelming for fans to sort through. “The Weekly Planet,” however, is a podcast that can help listeners digest the immense amount of pop culture in a fun and entertaining hour. Hosted by James “Mr. Sunday” Clement and Nick Mason, “The Weekly Planet” is the podcast that talks everything pop culture, including comic book movies, TV shows and video games. Mixing funny banter with insightful commentary on a variety of topics, Clement and Mason give their listeners a reason to look forward to Mondays. The best part of the podcast is their friendship, a bond that is evident from listening to the first few minutes. “The Weekly Planet” is an excellent recommendation for anyone with even a mild interest in the world of pop culture.

Listen here: https://omny.fm/shows/the-weekly-planet

Although these four are the only shows that made this list, there are numerous podcasts out there to fit anyone’s specific interests. From more commonly known podcasts like “Welcome to Nightvale” to more obscure ones such as “Do Go On,” podcasts are a great source of entertainment that will surely continue to grow as more people discover this gold mine.

Photo courtesy of TOFOP