Plug In and Zone Out: Podcasts to Make Your Day Better

Whether you're in the mood for gut-busting comedy, mind-bending mysteries, or deep dives into cultural phenomena, there's a podcast out there with your name on it. Podcasts are a great way to pass the time during long summer road trips or, if you live in LA, those dreadful commutes on the 405. We've sifted through the noise to bring you some of the best shows across various genres. Buckle up and get ready to discover your next podcast obsession!

"Serial" revolutionized the podcasting world with its compelling narrative style and investigative journalism. Hosted by Sarah Koenig, each season is a gripping, real-life thriller that explores a single story in-depth. Koenig’s meticulous attention to detail and compelling narrative style have made Serial a must-listen for true crime aficionados.

Comedians Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas are the hilarious trio behind How Did This Get Made?. Their infectious chemistry and sharp wit transform the discussion of terrible movies into comedic gold. Expect outrageous laughs and plenty of WTF moments as they dissect cinema’s biggest flops.

If you're a fan of Bravo TV and all things reality, Watch What Crappens is your go-to podcast. Hosted by Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam, this show offers hilarious commentary on popular reality TV shows like "The Real Housewives" and "Below Deck." Their playful banter and spot-on impersonations make each episode a laugh riot.

For insightful conversations on race, ethnicity, and culture, check out Code Switch by NPR. Hosts Gene Demby and Shereen Marisol Meraji tackle complex issues with clarity and nuance, making it a vital listen for understanding racial dynamics in America. Their engaging discussions are as enlightening as they are accessible.

Kid Fury and Crissle West, known for their sharp wit and no-holds-barred opinions, host The Read. This dynamic duo offers hilarious and unfiltered commentary on pop culture and current events, making each episode a rollercoaster of laughs and candid moments. Their chemistry and humor have earned them a dedicated fanbase.

For music lovers, Song Exploder is a treasure trove. Host Hrishikesh Hirway, a musician himself, brings a unique perspective as artists dissect their songs and share the creative process behind them. His thoughtful interviews provide an intimate glimpse into the artistry behind the music.

Stuff You Should Know, hosted by Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant, is an educational podcast that covers a wide range of topics, from science and history to pop culture and myths. Their easygoing banter and knack for explaining complex concepts make learning fun and accessible. Whether you’re curious about the history of cheese or the science of sleep, there's something for everyone.

True crime enthusiasts will love My Favorite Murder, a podcast where hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark share their favorite murder cases. Blending humor with true crime, the show has built a passionate fan base known as "Murderinos." Their irreverent humor and fascination with macabre tales create a unique and engaging listening experience.

Hosted by the McElroy family – Griffin, Justin, Travis, and their dad Clint – The Adventure Zone combines tabletop role-playing games with storytelling and comedy. Starting with Dungeons & Dragons, the show has expanded to other RPGs, creating rich, character-driven stories. The dynamic between the family members adds a layer of warmth and humor, making every episode a delightful adventure.

For sports enthusiasts, The Lowe Post with Zach Lowe is a must-listen. As a senior writer at ESPN, Lowe brings in-depth analysis and encyclopedic knowledge of the NBA. His engaging style and insightful commentary, along with interviews with players, coaches, and basketball insiders, make this podcast a slam dunk for basketball fans.

Lastly, for book lovers, The Stacks hosted by Traci Thomas is a gem. With her passion for books and cultural discussions, Thomas offers insightful interviews and thoughtful book reviews covering a wide range of topics, from reality TV and celebrity memoirs to politics and race. Her ability to provoke meaningful conversations makes this podcast a must-listen.

Whether you're looking for in-depth analysis, inspiring stories, or a good laugh, there's something on this list for you. Happy podding.