Press ‘Play’! — Podcasts Worth Your Time
Some months call for a reset. A new routine. A new playlist. A new story to get lost in...We're Here To Help!
There’s something about finding the right show at the right time that just "clicks"... It can make you think differently, laugh unexpectedly, spiral productively, or completely disappear into someone else’s world for a while.
This month, we have a list of some of our faves, customers' faves, and other recs from friends! It's a little bit of everything, from gripping investigations, and cultural deep dives, to strange-but-true stories, and a of course, a few lighter-listens that feel like a conversation with a smart friend.
Whether you want something intense and immersive or quick and oddly helpful, there’s something here worth pressing play on.
IMPORTANT, CULTURALLY-RELEVANT STORIES
(1) Rabbit Hole
A fascinating deep dive into how the internet, especially social media and algorithm-driven platforms, can slowly radicalize people, particularly young men. It might sound heavy on paper, but it’s completely absorbing and incredibly well told.
(2) 1619
An essential listen for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of Black American history and how it shapes the present. I learned an enormous amount. It’s beautifully produced, moves with real momentum, and still allows space for thoughtful pacing, including a memorable episode exploring racial appropriation through the lens of Yacht Rock.
TRUE CRIME
(1) Root of Evil
An intense exploration of the Black Dahlia case, told through the voices of the alleged killer’s own family members, two younger journalists who uncover their disturbing lineage in real time. It’s dark and, at moments, genuinely unsettling. But it’s also masterfully reported and impossible to turn off. The investigation goes deep, and even after they make a compelling case for the murderer’s identity, a follow-up episode shifts toward something unexpected: confronting inherited trauma and the possibility of breaking cycles of abuse.
(2) Noble
A truly strange one. Hundreds of human bones are discovered scattered in the woods… yet no murder has taken place. That’s all I’ll say.
BETRAYAL/SCAMS/CULTS
(1) The Shrink Next Door
This one has major Stockholm-syndrome energy, layered with Hamptons wealth culture (which is always fascinating to peek inside). The power dynamics, manipulation, and slow unraveling make it completely gripping.
(2) The Teacher's Pet
This one is excellent!!! It follows a decades-old cold case in Australia involving a teacher whose wife mysteriously disappeared. It’s meticulous, haunting, and absolutely a must-listen.
(3) Escaping NXIVM
If you're drawn to stories about self-help and “enlightenment” groups that blur into cult territory, this one dives deep into NXIVM’s inner workings and the psychology that keeps people in. Fascinating and unsettling in equal measure.
DEEP DIVES INTO FAMOUS NEWS STORIES
(1) WeCrashed
For a wild ride through the rise and fall of 'WeWork', this podcast offers, yet another story of unchecked ambition. It's a charismatic leader whose greed and narcissism spiral into something much bigger (and messier) than anyone expected, and totally worth your time!
(2) Slow Burn
Each season takes a deep, thoughtful look at a major moment in U.S. history. From Watergate scandal to the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal to the Los Angeles riots, this one unpacks the nuance, cultural context, and behind-the-scenes details that rarely make it into the headlines. It’s history with depth, tension, and perspective.
LIGHT-HEARTED FUN
(1) Snacks
This fun, surprisingly heartfelt podcast from the team at Delish features celebrities and chefs chatting with editor Joanna Saltz about their favorite snacks, strangest food pairings, go-to comfort foods, and more. Yes, it’s about what’s in the pantry, BUT it’s also about nostalgia, personality, humor, and the memories tied to what we eat. It’s light, warm, and full of those “oh my gosh, I used to love that” moments.
(2) Weirdly Helpful
In each short episode, host Zak Rosen and expert guests offer bite-sized advice that genuinely earns the title “weirdly helpful.” Topics range from modern handshake etiquette to creative ways to quiet your inner critic. Most episodes clock in under 15 minutes, perfect for picking up one practical, slightly unexpected life tip before you’ve even finished getting ready for the day.