Generation Now: Engaging Student Podcasts for Today’s 20-Somethings

Podcasts have become a valuable tool for personal growth and entertainment in today's fast-paced world. Amidst the chaos and excitement of student life, podcasts offer access to a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and self-discovery. From career advice and mental health to creativity and life tips, students can explore a wide range of podcast genres with just a pair of earphones and an open mind. These audio companions act as trusted mentors, providing valuable insights, practical recommendations, and thought-provoking dialogues that expand perspectives, nurture interests, and empower students to navigate the challenges of university life while fostering personal growth.

  1. Business-related podcasts:

For those seeking insights into the world of business, here are the 3 highly recommended podcasts- 

The Business Wars podcast is an engrossing and exciting series that dives into the deep rivalries and competitive fights that exist between significant firms and industries. It focuses on a different rivalry each season, such as Coca-Cola versus Pepsi, Nike versus Adidas, or Netflix versus Blockbuster. The podcast takes listeners on a trip through the growth and collapse of these rivalries, showcasing the intense competition, crucial moments, and innovative ways that transformed the business environment through thorough research and entertaining storytelling.

The popular podcast Freakonomics Radio is presented by Stephen J. Dubner, co-author of the best-selling book “Freakonomics.” The podcast takes an innovative approach to uncover the hidden side of everyday life and the world around us, using economics as a lens to analyze varied topics and reveal unexpected links. It digs into a wide range of topics, from economics and social science to psychology, technology, and beyond, through thought-provoking interviews and expert analysis.

“How I Built This” is a famous podcast in which he interviews entrepreneurs and inventors, delving into their inspiring journeys as well as the tales behind their creation of successful companies. Guy Raz’s fascinating interview style reveals the victories, setbacks, and watershed moments that molded these entrepreneurs’ journeys to success. In each episode, he takes listeners on a compelling journey through the origins, struggles, and breakthroughs of well-known firms and organizations. The program features a varied spectrum of companies and the creative minds behind them, from mainstream names like Airbnb, Spanx, and Starbucks to lesser-known startups and social enterprises. Listeners acquire insights into the entrepreneurial attitude, the value of tenacity, and the lessons learned from setbacks and other obstacles. 

  1. Mental health-related podcasts 

Addressing mental health concerns is crucial for overall well-being. Several podcasts stand out in this category: 

  1. Life lessons: 

Hosted by Jay Shetty, a former monk turned motivational speaker and life coach. In his podcast, Jay Shetty shares practical wisdom and deep insights on personal development, relationships, mindfulness, and finding purpose in life. 

Through thought-provoking interviews with renowned thought leaders, celebrities, and experts, Jay Shetty explores a wide range of topics aimed at empowering listeners to live their best lives. He offers guidance on overcoming challenges, cultivating mindfulness, building meaningful relationships, and finding inner fulfillment. Jay Shetty’s podcast combines ancient wisdom from his time as a monk with modern insights, making it accessible and relatable to a broad audience.

Tim Ferriss, an author, entrepreneur, and well-known self-experimenter, hosts the show. His’ podcast deconstructs world-class performers’ techniques, habits, and attitudes in business, sports, entertainment, and personal development. In-depth conversations with famous guests, ranging from top sportsmen and successful businesspeople to acclaimed musicians and significant thought leaders, are featured in each episode. 

He delves into their routines, rituals, and essential behaviors that have contributed to their success, providing listeners with great insights and concrete takeaways. “The Tim Ferriss Show” goes beyond surface-level chats, diving into the guests’ failures, problems, and life lessons. The podcast aims to identify “tactics, routines, and habits” that listeners may use to improve their lives and achieve their goals.

  1. Motivational/Educational podcasts: 

“Dare to Lead with Brené Brown” is a powerful podcast hosted by Brené Brown, a well-known researcher, author, and speaker known for her work on vulnerability, courage, and leadership.  

Brené Brown’s podcast delves into the concepts and practices of effective leadership, emphasizing the significance of vulnerability, empathy, and authenticity. Brené Brown conducts in-depth interviews with leaders from many disciplines to explore their experiences, problems, and techniques for leading with courage and compassion. She discusses subjects such as trust, embracing failure, establishing inclusive cultures, and growing resilience. “Dare to Lead” equips leaders at all levels with practical tools and effective guidance, whether they work in business, education, or another field.

“Stuff You Should Know” is a popular podcast produced by Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant that explores and explains various fascinating topics in an engaging and informative manner. Josh and Chuck dig into science, history, culture, technology, and other topics with their inquisitive and conversational approach.

Each “Stuff You Should Know” episode goes into a particular issue, analyzing it and presenting listeners with interesting facts, background information, and insights. From the secrets of the universe to the history of familiar objects, Josh and Chuck delve into topics that excite their interest and resonate with their audience.

Gregg Clunis hosts an educational and empowering podcast. The podcast attempts to inspire listeners to make tiny, incremental adjustments that lead to substantial positive improvements in their lives, focusing on personal growth and self-improvement.

Gregg Clunis discusses practical strategies, attitude adjustments, and habit-building techniques in short and digestible episodes to help listeners create lasting change. The podcast discusses various themes, including productivity, goal planning, mindfulness, health, and relationships.

“Tiny Leaps, Big Changes” focuses on the importance of taking tiny, attainable steps toward personal growth and encourages listeners to value progress over perfection. 

Julia Galef hosts a thought-provoking podcast in which she investigates the nexus of science, philosophy, and rational thinking. The program covers numerous topics via a rational and evidence-based lens, focusing on critical thinking and skepticism.

“Rationally Speaking” delves into topics such as cognitive biases, scientific skepticism, philosophy of science, ethics, and rational decision-making through expert interviews and lively conversations. Julia Galef challenges her audience to examine their assumptions, challenge their beliefs, and think critically about the world around them.

  1. Comedy/Fun/Entertaining podcasts for relaxation: 

The popular podcast “Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard” is presented by actor and comedian Dax Shepard. Dax has open and informative talks with a diverse spectrum of guests, including celebrities, professionals, and everyday people, in each episode, discussing their life experiences, personal journeys, and lessons learned along the way. 

“Armchair Expert” stands out for its honesty and vulnerability as Dax and his guests discuss life’s highs and lows. The unedited dialogues allow for essential and, at times, surprising insights that resonate with listeners.

The highly renowned podcast “WTF with Marc Maron” is presented by comedian and actor Marc Maron. Known for his blunt and honest style, he conducts long-form, in-depth interviews with a wide range of guests, including other comedians, actors, musicians, and noteworthy personalities from various areas.

Marc Maron creates a private and contemplative space for his guests to discuss their personal tales, creative journeys, and experiences in each episode. Conversations frequently cover issues such as career challenges, personal growth, relationships, and overcoming hardship.

“My Favorite Murder” is a hugely successful true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. In each episode, they delve into true crime stories, exploring infamous cases and unsolved mysteries with a unique blend of wit, empathy, and investigation. 

Karen and Georgia’s chats strive to empower listeners to prioritize their safety and well-being while preserving an interest in true crime. The podcast provides a forum for free dialogue regarding social issues such as crime, justice, and empathy.

“My Favorite Murder” delivers a unique blend of entertainment and education, bringing a fresh perspective on true crime while establishing a supportive community of listeners, whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply appreciate the hosts’ humorous banter.

“The Read” is a famous podcast produced by Kid Fury and Crissle in which they analyze and deconstruct the latest pop culture news, music releases, and social issues with their distinctive blend of wit, comedy, and unflinching honesty. 

  1. Global News update:

“The Daily,” hosted by Michael Barbaro, contains conversations with New York Times journalists and other professionals, providing listeners with complete knowledge of the day’s most important news topics. It takes listeners deep dive into some of the world’s biggest stories, giving in-depth reporting and commentary on a wide range of topics. 

The British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) “BBC Global News Podcast” is a well-known audio program. It gives listeners a comprehensive summary of the day’s major international news articles, covering a wide range of global issues. The podcast provides in-depth reporting and analysis on significant events, politics, economics, culture, and more from a global perspective.

Podcasts have changed the way we get information and entertain ourselves. There is a podcast for every interest and need, from business and mental health to life lessons, motivation, and sheer fun. Listeners can go on a journey of personal growth, enhance their knowledge, and find peace or laughter in the vast and exciting world of podcasting with only a few clicks. So put on your headphones, check out these suggestions, and immerse yourself in the fantastic world of podcasts!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments (

)