As a journalism major, I am constantly trying to keep up with the news — something easier said than done these days.
I subscribe to a variety of media outlets, such as The New York Times, Washington Post and NPR, in order to receive well-rounded coverage on multiple topics.
Lately, I’ve found the time I generally dedicate to reading the news being eaten up by other things.
It wasn’t long before I found my solution — podcasts.
According to a Forbes article, podcasts have seen a surge in popularity over the past couple of years with at least 112 million Americans listening to these audio stories.
Forbes contributor Jayson DeMers said podcasts have garnered this increased attention because more people are spending their days staring at a mobile screen.
DeMers also cites low production costs and increased internet speeds for helping to accelerate podcast use across the country.
At first, I started listening to a few episodes a week while getting ready in the mornings or driving to school.
Soon enough, I was hooked and played several different newscasts a day as I did homework, cooking and cleaning.
I even began to branch beyond news related audios to comedy and crime stories — sometimes a mix of both.
Here are some of my favorites I’ve found:
“The Daily”
Started by New York Times’ reporter Michael Barbaro, “The Daily” does in-depth analyses of major news topics each episode. Barbaro hosts the 20-minute show with occasional help from several other Times journalists, as well as officials outside the newsroom. New episodes air Monday through Friday around 6 a.m. — a perfect way to start the day.
“Caliphate”
Another win for The Times, “Caliphate” explores the rise and fall of the Islamic State through the reporting of Rukmini Callimachi. Callimachi, who covers terrorism at The Times, tries to unmask and understand ISIS in the 10-part series. She speaks with former members, victims and experts, getting right in the midst of the conflict in Syria and Iraq. At the end, you’re begging to know more.
“Lore”
The tagline for this bi-weekly audio cast says it all, “sometimes the truth is more frightening than fiction,” — trust me, it definitely is when it comes to these stories. Started in 2016, “Lore” focuses on the creatures, places and people that live in the recesses of our worst and wildest nightmares. Each episode explores a different tale, uncovering “the darker side of history.” You might want to keep the lights on after listening in.
“My Favorite Murder”
Hosted by true crime lovers Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, “My Favorite Murder” examines the two’s favorite murder stories throughout history. It might sound dark, by Kilgariff and Hardstark successfully weave humor throughout their bi-weekly episodes for a very enjoyable listen. As a true crime fan, myself, this podcast meets expectations and then promptly surpasses them.
“Getting Curious”
Jonathan Van Ness asks the questions most of us silently wonder in this weekly audio cast. “Getting Curious” doesn’t shy away from any topic, exploring the mechanism behind a triple axel to cutting suicide rates. Van Ness is candid, funny and, above all, addicting. You won’t regret tuning in.
Podcasts have been a great way for me to stay informed while I multitask — all you need to do is just push play.
Olivia Heersink can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @heersinkolivia