These days, with a long commute to my daughter’s school, podcasts are what keep me informed (and awake). I eagerly look forward to dropping her off because I just can’t wait to pick up on an episode I’ve paused. 

I’ve always loved podcasts. In fact, listening to a podcast is what led to my career as a coach, and following the advice of podcasts is what helped me start my business on a budget. Not to mention the two I’ve hosted!

Now, though, I would say my taste in podcasts has evolved. I’m no longer interested in the how-to/advice episodes, and I’m much more interested in episodes that help me think about something differently. I’m also not a fan of interview shows unless the host is incredibly skilled at asking questions, or they contribute significantly to the conversation, because I listen to shows because I like the host, not the guest. 

Despite sharing podcast recommendations with my friends on a regular basis, I can’t believe I haven’t shared them with you yet! There’s a first for everything.

Without any more preamble, here’s the list of what shows have my attention in the podcast world these days.

The Ezra Klein Show

This is my go-to show for anything world-events related, or a critical overview on a heated topic. Ezra is currently doing excellent shows about the horrors in Gaza and Israel, and has done some really helpful shows about American politics. Even as a Canadian, these shows are fascinating and informative. His episodes about hot topics like transgender rights or homelessness are also really interesting. I get the sense I share a lot of the same values as him, so when he is critically assessing a topic I really value his questions. He’s also not afraid to contradict guests or push them on an answer, which I appreciate. And, I’ve gotten some great book recommendations from him and his guests!

If Books Could Kill

If you want to laugh out loud in every episode, but also feel uncomfortable about what you’re listening to, this is the show for you (unless you can’t handle swearing…then this is definitely not for you). Each episode is a critical review of a popular book, where the hosts debunk the premise and fact-check the writing. It’s both horrifying and embarrassing to listen to them rip apart books I’ve read, but it’s making me a much more critical and discerning reader. My absolute favourite episode is about Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus, but I’m not sure there’s a bad episode. Just start somewhere familiar and explore from there.

That’s Not How That Works

This show has really expanded my knowledge of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. I have listened to nearly every episode and each one challenges my thinking and helps me better understand my biases and privilege. I know a person can’t do the work of anti-racism by listening to a podcast, but it’s a jumping-off point for me to keep looking at myself and my work with a critical lens. And just writing this is reminding me to rethink my podcast feed to make sure I’m listening to things from all kinds of people with different lived experiences.

Courage & Spice

Sas Petherick is my mentor, teacher, coach, and supervisor for all things “self-belief”. I got one of my coaching certifications from her, and really trust her work. Sas has been critically assessing the coaching industry and is incredibly thoughtful about what she teaches so it doesn’t perpetuate some of the dangers and harm that can happen in this work. Her podcast is just as thoughtful, though I prefer her solo episodes to the interview episodes because I’m less interested in what the other people have to say. Her episodes are for everyone, not just coaches, so they can help you illuminate your self-belief blind spots. (And if you want to go deeper on this work that’s something we can do together).

And a few honourable mentions to a knitting show called Pardon My Stash, Hurry Slowly (a show I haven’t listened to recently but I loved the first few seasons), and a great feminist and inclusive storytelling show for kids called Girl Tales.

There are dozens more I could rave about, and ones that have come and gone over the years, but we’ll leave it at these favourites for now. I’ll have to check in again next year to see how it has all shifted and evolved!

Let me know what's on your list!