Social media has kept people connected and informed about the ongoing happenings. But, despite its reach, many still find themselves out of the loop regarding hottest trends and discussions. Thankfully, podcasts have emerged as the perfect solution for getting interesting insights on pop culture topics. Whether one’s in the mood for some light-hearted celebrity gossip, an intriguing conversation surrounding a trend, or a fresh perspective on a childhood favorite book, podcasts have got them covered.
Happy Sad Confused
Available on Apple and Spotify
Happy Sad Confused may not fit the typical format of pop culture podcasts, but it certainly deserves a spot on the list. At first glance, it may seem a bit different, but the show delves deep into significant topics such as careers, grief, emotions, and much more. It is an ideal listen for movie geeks who enjoy friendly yet insightful conversations with their favorite celebrities. The podcast carries an informal tone, making it feel as though listeners are overhearing a conversation between long-time friends. Josh Horowitz, a pop-culture nerd himself, excels at covering a range of career-spanning discussions while also providing insights into the guest’s recent projects.
Podcrushed
Available on Apple, Audible, and Spotify
Tagged under the categories of comedy, pop culture, and society, this underrated podcast is a must-listen for celebrity lovers. The podcast takes a unique approach by focusing on the challenges of being a teenager. Each episode features celebrities and famous personalities discussing their own teenage experiences, sharing everything from awkward encounters to embarrassing stories. The hosts, Penn Badgley, Sophie Ansari, and Nava Kavelin, are dedicated to producing funny, heartwarming, and relatable content on their podcast that helps middle schoolers feel at ease in their own skin. Notable guests have included Sebastian Stan, Taylor Tomlinson, Topher Grace, Zachary Quinto, Eddie Redmayne, Demi Lovato, and Ariana Grande.
How Did This Get Made?
Available on Apple, Audible, and Spotify
One must have encountered a movie that definitely should have stayed in the draft stage. Interesting, right? There is a podcast that explores just that. How Did This Get Made? hosted by actors and comedians June Diane Raphael, Paul Scheer, and Jason Mantzoukas, this show takes a humorous look at poorly made films the world could have done without. Featuring guests like Amy Schumer, Seth Rogen, Conan O’Brien, and Charlize Theron, this pop culture podcast needs to be on everyone’s list. It discusses the best of the worst movies ever made, covering genres regardless of box office performance or critic ratings.
Who? Weekly
Available on Apple Spotify
In general, life can simply get busy, and one may miss out on information they might not have known. But fret not! Hosts Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber are there to fill in the gaps. On their podcast, Who? Weekly, listeners can catch up on the latest gossip and news. They cover basic questions like who is who, what they did, and why one should be bothered with the information. The podcast is not only entertaining but also satisfies one’s curiosity about pop culture. Listen to an episode and watch how quickly it becomes a part of one’s routine.
Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend
Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Conan O’Brien has successfully entertained viewers as a late-night show host with his playful style, which keeps everyone engaged in the conversation. He can also be seen delivering lightning-fast comebacks and demonstrating impressive interview skills. In his podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend, he sits down with people close to him, including celebrities, and engages in candid discussions that range from history and science to art, culture, and travel.
Mostly Lit
Available on Apple, Audible, Spotify, and SoundCloud
If one’s looking for a podcast that discusses literature, look no further than Mostly Lit. The hosts, Rafia Rafiq, Alex Reads, and Derek Owusu, explore literary trends, books, and several other cultural topics each week. One just needs to take a cozy seat with a mug of hot beverage and enjoy listening to the hosts engage in sincere and hilarious conversations. They also tackle age-old questions, such as in The Great Gatsby, why Daisy Buchanan chose to be with Tom. The hosts challenge long-held literature opinions, which earns them both praise and critique.
The Sarah Silverman Podcast
Available on Apple, Audible, and Spotify
Right from rollerblades and Space Jam to Seinfeld and socialism, Sarah Silverman talks about it all in her podcast. The smart, outspoken, and witty comedian has her listeners captivated throughout the episode with her engaging narration and responses. During the episode, she even answers listener voicemails, creating a safe space for people to discuss all the off-beat topics they want to engage in. Moreover, the host is candid about her occasional lack of knowledge on certain subjects, inviting listeners to share their questions. Whether one has a query about a breakfast cereal or wants to discuss a nagging question that keeps one awake at 3 am, this is the place to bring it up.
The Read
Available on iTunes, SoundCloud, and Audible
Kid Fury and Crissle West are both entertaining and educating their listeners on their pop culture podcast, The Read. Their honesty and comic timing with stellar chemistry make it difficult for one to get bored when listening to them share their opinions and discuss the latest news in pop culture. The Read offers a refreshing alternative to common podcast formats, as it explores and dissects different topics without making them sound dull to the audience.