The Iglu Guide | Blog
Wrap your headphones around these awesome podcasts right now
What is it about podcasts that make them so addictive? Maybe it’s the ease with which we can just slip into another world, access interesting ideas, meet interesting people and learn interesting things. Whether you’re into storytelling, politics, comedy or true crime, this list will have you covered. Here’s some of the best podcasts available online for you right now.
Stuff you Should Know
A true veteran of the podcast world, Stuff You Should Know (SYSK) has been running for over 10 years and is showing no signs of slowing down any time soon. Tackling a wide range of topics from science and politics through to fashion and conspiracy theories, comedy duo Josh and Chuck bring hours of entertainment and banter to our ears with every episode. If you’ve ever wondered how grass works as a fuel, what the gig economy is all about or whether King Arthur was actually real, this is definitely for you.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Off Menu
It’s no secret that our food choices can define us, and things can get a little judgey out there when it comes to what fills your plate. The idea of listening to a famous guest ordering their dream 3-course meal is more revealing and entertaining than it might sound. What exactly does sparkling water really say about a person? And can you really order ketchup without having any fries? Hosted by comedians James Acaster and Ed Gamble, Off Menu is an epicurean’s digression into storytelling, anecdotes and one-liners. Whether you have a passion for food or you’re in it for the jokes, Off Menu has something tasty in it for everyone to enjoy.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
You’re Wrong About
Each week, American journalists Sarah and Michael take a common historical event or story and turn it completely on its head with an up close and personal perspective. A thought-provoking podcast, You’re Wrong About handles heavy topics using a respectful blend of empathy and humour to examine the disastrous effect the sensationalist media can have on every historical narrative. You’re Wrong About turns all of our assumed knowledge right on its head and helps us to consider the human element that exists behind every headline. Fun, factual and fulfilling, pick a title that appeals to you and get listening.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
The Infinite Monkey Cage
Not your ordinary science podcast, The Infinite Monkey Cage brings together scientific royalty in the human form of Brian Cox, with fresh British comedian Robin Ince. Each show tackles a particular subject matter that can range from the inevitable ‘how might the universe end’ through to the more pressing topic of whether insects will inherit the earth.
The compelling blend of science and comedy ensures that the dialogue stays jargon-free and relevant to all. Helped along by a 4-person discussion panel, The Infinite Monkey Cage manages to stay relevant, accessible, funny and mind-bending all at the same time. Definitely one for the subscribe button.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Trace
If you’re a cold case fan, this podcast should fast-track to your feed. Trace is an investigative podcast that lays bare the imperfect workings of the Australian justice system. Series 1 tackles the murder of Maria James who was stabbed 68 times in her Melbourne bookstore back in 1980. The murder was never solved and was riddled with bungled errors and misinformation. On the day she died, Maria had planned to confront a local priest about the abuse of her son. As a result of this podcast and the subsequent information uncovered, a fresh coronial inquest has recently been launched. Series 2 introduces us to defence barrister-turned-police informer Nicola Gobbo, and what happened to her when her double life was revealed to the world. Nail biting stuff.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts
Hidden Brain
Ever wondered why genders behave differently? Why we never feel like we have got quite enough? Why we choose one product over another or why we all instinctively like to avoid bad news? All this and much, much more is right at your fingertips with Shankar Vedantam’s Hidden Brain series. Committed to taking a really deep dive into human behaviour, Hidden Brain tries to make sense or our psychology and interactions. Connecting the rigours of science to real life, Hidden Brain succeeds in a way that is not only fascinating to listen to but engaging and entertaining along the way.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
My Favourite Murder
Off the charts popular, My Favourite Murder combines our unquenchable thirst for solving serial crime with our ongoing appetite for casual, girl-power, conversational-style companionship. Hosted by lifelong true crime fans, Karen and Georgia, we sit like the silent friend as they voice their private musings on life, the world, and of course their favourite murders. In the process, they help us acknowledge the dangers that many women face while bizarrely having quite a lot of fun along the way. For a feminine comedy twist on the true crime genre, this is podcasting at its best.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
