Since their start in the early 2000s, podcasts have become an increasingly popular form of entertainment, with their big break occurring in 2014, when the true crime podcast “Serial,” was born. Since then, podcasts for just about anything you can think of have been released on popular platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible and Wondery.
Just like how the different sounds of music can evoke certain emotions, the content discussed in various podcasts can do the same. So you want to pick the right one for your current headspace. Here is a list of podcasts to match several common moods.
Need a Pick Me Up?
Whether you’re having a bad day or maybe a bad couple of months, there are many podcasts out there to help lift your spirits. If a good laugh is something that tends to boost your mood, check out “Smartless,” hosted by an iconic comedic trio including, Jason Bateman, known for his roles in “Arrested Development” and “Ozark,” Will Arnett, who also starred in “Arrested Development” and has landed many voice acting roles due to his distinctive baritone sound, and Sean Hayes, known for his character in “Will & Grace.” Each episode the hosts take turns inviting a special guest to chat and engage in witty banter. Listen to “Smartless” on Wondery+, Amazon Music or Apple Podcasts.
Get Motivated
Maybe you have reached a slight lull in your life and feel stuck. If you need that extra push to get motivated to get back on your feet, the podcast world certainly has no shortage of individuals who have been where you are and are eager to share their advice. Take it from Scott Smith, who is trained in motivational theory and is always looking towards an exciting future. His podcast “The Daily Boost,” provides listeners with a daily episode that lasts just long enough to finish your morning cup of coffee. The 12 minute briefs talk about everything from setting goals, to unleashing your full potential, and even looking to analyze if you are the catalyst for any of your current life challenges. Check out Smith’s latest advice from any of the platforms listed here.
Another way to work towards increasing your motivation is to get organized first. In “Unstuffed,” Mom Renee Benes takes listeners through her journey of creating a more minimalist lifestyle. Many people benefit from having a clean, organized and decluttered space because it allows the mind to feel more at ease and open; Benes walks you through how to go about this process efficiently. She also emphasizes the importance of ridding of unnecessary limitations you’ve set in your mind, like caring too much about what other people think, and setting intentions. Listen to “Unstuffed” on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or Spotify to find ways to get out of your rut.
“Curiosity Killed the Cat, But Satisfaction Brought it Back”
Co-founder of blog narrative “New Day New Chapter,” Kishore Shintre, wrote about this idiom in an article titled It is the curiosity that killed the cat, but satisfaction brought him back. He explains that the meaning of “curiosity killed the cat” is true in that people should mind their own business. But the second part, “satisfaction brought it back,” is powerful too. Being curious about your own life and searching for answers to your questions can be beneficial to your own wellbeing.
There are many podcasts that serve just this purpose. Such as “The Psychology of Your 20s,” which explores all the confusing and difficult experiences that may come when entering and navigating through your 20s. Mental health advocate and psychology graduate Jemma Sbeg teaches listeners about the science behind many of the universal feelings and challenges 20-year-olds face. Check out Sbeg’s podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to get answers on why and how to deal with the struggles thrown at you in your 20s. Podcasts can serve as a hub of information in a more general sense as well. So if you have a natural love for learning and being in the know, give “Stuff You Should Know” or “You’re Wrong About” a listen. Both can offer valuable knowledge to have in your back pocket or fun facts to present to your friends. Both are available to listen to on most of your favorite podcast platforms.
Embracing Change
Change can be scary and hard to accept. But many people have likely gone through a similar situation, whether it be a break-up, a big move or a career change. For Dr. Maya Shankar, the life changing challenge was finding a new purpose and direction in life after injuring her hand playing the violin. In “A Slight Change of Plans,” Shankar explores the science of change and how to work with it, not against it. Head to Apple Podcasts or Spotify to hear what she has to say.
Independence can be a big adjustment to get used to throughout many different periods in life. For some, this may look like learning how to love being single after getting out of a long-term relationship. Luckily, intuitive self-love advocate Lyss Boss gets into the nitty gritty in her podcast “Date Yourself Instead.” The social media personality provides insight on how to create the best version of you, for you. Head to your favorite mainstream podcast platform to find an episode to start your journey.
Next time you need an activity to match your energy or help you shift your mood, give a podcast a try. You’d be amazed at how much you can learn and relate to just by listening.
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