I really got into podcasts during the pandemic when I was taking long walks and I needed something more stimulating to listen to. It was a perfect pairing; I would start an episode as soon as I step out and only go home after I go through one or two of them. So here are my top podcasts so far, and I’m certain more will be added to the list.

1. Impact Theory by Tom Bilyeu
   This was my most listened to in 2020-2021, mostly due to the wide range of subjects covered by the people Tom interviews on the podcast.
   
   
2. School of Greatness by Lewis Howes
   Similar to Impact Theory, episodes include interviews with incredible people who share their expertise in health, mindset, entrepreneurship, finance, psychology, relationships, etc… Lewis always ends his podcast by asking the guests to share three things that they would want people to know and remember from their area of expertise, and then asks them what is their definition of “greatness” which is always an interesting segment of the episode.
   
   
3. NPR’s Hidden Brain
   Shankar Vedantam is the host of this podcast and half the reason why I listen to it. He uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices and direct our relationships. He interviews professionals well-versed in the matters he’s covering and there’s always something interesting to learn.
   
   
4. Duolingo Spanish Podcast
   Other than being a regular user of Duolingo, I have been even more consistent with listening to the Dueling podcast. This podcast covers so many subjects that you can learn from, be entertained, and work on your Spanish listening skills at the same time. Episodes include customs and traditions from all Spanish speaking countries, real life stories of people who made a difference, and much much more. The reason this podcast works is that the speakers use intermediate Spanish so it’s easier to understand when you’re a learner, and the host chimes in to fill in some gaps in English. You’re never completely lost while you’re listening if you didn’t understand a few sentences.
   
   
5. Modern Love by The New York Times
   The New York Times has the Modern Love column which features “modern love” stories written by everyday people, and they range from all kinds of relationships and loves there are. This podcast features these stories read by someone else, but the authors come in at the end to answer a few questions (and often give updates) on their story, what prompted them write it, and give some more insight beyond the story. This is a very wholesome podcast to listen to, so be prepared to feel inspired, and possibly regain your faith in humanity and love.
   
   Note: If you’d like to take it a step further, make sure to watch “Modern Love” the series which is adapted from these Modern Love stories. There are two seasons (6 episodes each) and it’s hands down one of my favorite things to watch.
   
   
6. Huberman Lab by Dr. Andrew Huberman
   I first got introduced to Dr. Huberman as a guest on one of the other podcasts and I was really drawn to his area of expertise; brain development, brain plasticity, and neural regeneration and repair fields. that he specializes in. Turns out he has his own podcast (and also active on social media). Dr. Huberman discusses science and science-based tools for everyday life as a neuroscientist, and I’m always learning something different from him.