How to Ease Your Commute: Podcasts

Whether you're going to work or heading off to class, it seems like a lot of us spend a lot of time just sitting. With that, I'm surprised that not many I know have heard of or subscribe to podcasts.

Podcasts are basically radio programs that you subscribe and listen to through your mp3 player. There is a variety of programming; anything from music shows, to entertainment news, and to political shows. They are very easy to setup, and best of all, they're free.

If you have an iPod, all you have to do is go on "Podcasts" tab in iTunes, and then click on the "Podcast Directory" button to access all the shows.

If you don't have an iPod, you can download Juice, which basically does the same thing.

Not sure where to start? Here's what I listen to...

NPR's This American Life
This is my favorite podcast, and if you like documentaries, this will be your favorite too. This is an hour long radio show where, "each week on our program, of course, we choose a theme and bring a variety of different stories on that theme." I look forward to it every week and I always recommend it as the podcast to listen to.

Comedy Central's Stand-Up
This is a video podcast that sporadically updates with small (30 seconds to 7 minutes) clips of stand-up comedians. It's good for when you're waiting for a bus or just really bored. Obviously, it's not so good for when you're driving.



KCRW's Left, Rigth & Center
Another public radio broadcast made into a podcast, Left, Right & Center is a political podcast where 4 commentators (Left: Robert Scheer, Right: Tony Blankley, Center: Matthew Miller, Representing the Independent-progressive blogosphere: Arianna Huffington) talk about the political news that dominates that particular week. There is an interesting dynamic by having a bunch of sides represented. Also, they are amiable with one another, leaving room for some good discussion instead of just fighting. This podcast keeps me updated with what's going on politically.

President's Weekly Radio Address
I may not like the guy, but he's our president, so it's interesting to hear what he has to say. They're short (3 - 5 minutes), but they explain what the president is trying to do and what he's thinking.



What makes podcasts so great is that there is something for everyone. This is just what I listen to, but I'm sure that if you browse the directory, you'll find something that fits your interests.