

There’s a podcast out there for everyone. Seriously. There are even podcasts that review other podcasts. This limitless array of options makes podcasts customizable to one’s own interests, but it can also be overwhelming. To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 podcasts for teens new to the world of auditory storytelling.

Dr. Death

If you think you’ve heard all that the true crime genre has to offer, think again. Dr. Death is not for the faint of heart. However, if you’re up for it, it’s a thrilling true crime podcast that follows Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a neurosurgeon who was sentenced to life in prison for injuring several of his patients and killing two. In addition to following the delusions of Duntsch, Dr. Death explores the way certain institutions work to protect their reputations, even at the expense of others.

My Brother, My Brother and Me

My Brother, My Brother and Me is a weekly advice/comedy podcast. The hosts Justin, Travis and Griffin McElroy answer questions submitted by listeners or posted on Yahoo Answers. Honestly, some questions posted on Yahoo Answers are hilarious on their own. All of the questions brought up on the podcast lead to thoughtful and simultaneously humorous discussions. If you’re ever in need of a laugh, it’s a great podcast to turn to.

Potterless

Don’t get me wrong, I love Harry Potter. My childhood is filled with memories of invisible cloaks and chocolate frogs. However, I also love Potterless, a sometimes harsh critique of the books in podcast form. Mike Schubert, Potterless host, is a 25-year-old man reading the Harry Potter books for the first time. He goes on rants about plot holes and Quidditch to fans as well as giving input on the characters. Potterless provides a pleasant walk down memory lane for all self-proclaimed Potterheads and a breath of fresh air, I would assume, for those who dislike the books. Even if you have spent your entire life under a rock and have not read the Harry Potter series, the podcast provides interesting summaries.

Serial

Serial is a classic true crime podcast and my current obsession. Season one, perhaps the most widely-know season, explores the murder of a teenage girl named Hae Min Lee. Although Hae’s ex-boyfriend, Adnan Syed, was charged with the murder and sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years, he has maintained his innocence. Serial host, Sarah Koenig, does not come to the conclusion that Adnan is or isn’t guilty. She does, however, do her research and explore all perspectives of the case, which is part of what makes Serial so intriguing.

Stuff You Missed in History Class

Whether or not you struggle to stay awake in history class, this podcast won’t disappoint. The hosts, Holly Frey and Tracy Wilson, talk about lesser known historical figures, superstitions and events. For example, I bet you don’t know the origins of cheese. But I bet you want to know more. Check out Stuff you Missed in History Class to learn about everything from cheese to cults.

Ted Talks Daily

If you’ve somehow never watched a Ted Talk before, they are mini lectures given by a diverse range of individuals on a diverse range of topics. The talks also come in podcast form! Episodes include the effects of flying taxis on the way humans travel and how gardening changed one man’s life for good. You’re bound to find one that piques your interest.

The Moth

If you love storytelling, The Moth is for you. Each episode features everyday people who tell stories about their own lives. These stories can be touching, funny and at times even shocking. Overall, the podcast emphasizes the importance of oral tradition and storytelling on humanity’s well-being.

The Sporkful

Who doesn’t love food? it’s a unifier among teens. Each episode of The Sporkful has a guest who will discuss various food-related topics with the host, Dan Pashman. This podcast isn’t for foodies though. It’s for people who like to eat food and who are interested in the role food plays in cultural expression. All in all, The Sporkful is great if you’re not yet sure what type of podcast is best for you. It’s funny, thought-provoking and, best of all, about food.

Welcome to Night Vale

Mysterious hooded figures. Strange lights in the sky. Local weather reports. This podcast provides listeners with updates on the fictional town of Night Vale, where every conspiracy theory is accepted as reality. Similar to the Twilight Zone in its eeriness, Welcome to Night Vale is worth a listen.

Youth Radio

Youth Radio is a network of young journalists and artists that sometimes partners up with NPR or The New York Times. The podcast is great because it features teens and focuses on issues affecting teens. Episodes are centered around political issues paired with teen commentary or personal stories told by individual teens.

Ella Unal is a senior at Springfield High School and is the intern for The Voice, The State Journal-Register’s program for teen writers.
https://www.sj-r.com/news/20181116/commentary-ellas-top-10-best-podcasts-for-teens
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