I've always been that person with a painfully long commute—so long that I’ve practically lived in my car. Enter podcasts, my saving grace, making traffic jams feel like less of a prison sentence. Thankfully, my drive these days is a quick hop (cue the hallelujah chorus), but that doesn't mean I’ve given up my favorite shows. Over the years, my interests have shifted, but there are a few trusty podcasts that have stuck with me through thick and thin (shoutout to #3 and #4). So, without further ado, here are my Top 5 podcast faves in heavy rotation!
1. Smartless
This comedic interview podcast is hosted by actors Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. Each episode features one of the hosts bringing in a surprise guest, unknown to the other two, leading to spontaneous and often hilarious conversations. Guests come from a variety of fields, including entertainment, politics, and sports, and the trio’s natural chemistry keeps the tone light and engaging. The show is filled with witty banter, personal stories, and insights into the lives and careers of the hosts and their guests, making it a blend of humor and thoughtful discussion. Listeners love it for its relaxed, unscripted feel and the dynamic between the hosts.
2. On with Kara Swisher
Hosted by renowned tech journalist Kara Swisher, this show features in-depth conversations with influential figures in the tech industry, politics, business, and pop culture. Swisher explores pressing issues like technology's impact on society, climate change, AI, media trends, and more. With her sharp, no-nonsense interviewing style, she digs into her guests' insights, often challenging their views while offering her own commentary. The podcast stands out for its thoughtful dialogue, critical analysis, and Swisher’s deep understanding of the subjects at hand. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in tech, culture, and the future of business. I certainly feel smarter after listening!
3. Hollywood Babble-On
This is another comedy podcast hosted by filmmaker Kevin Smith and radio personality Ralph Garman. The show focuses on pop culture, entertainment news, and Hollywood gossip, often with a humorous and irreverent tone. Smith and Garman riff on current events, celebrity scandals, and the latest in film and television, making it a fun and often raunchy take on the entertainment industry. Recurring segments include “The Tinseltown Stiffs,” where they discuss recent celebrity deaths, and “Shout Outs,” where they engage with their fanbase. The chemistry between Smith and Garman, along with their sharp wit, makes it a favorite for listeners looking for a comedic take on Hollywood news. Being a huge fan of Smith’s, I never miss it or any of his local shows when he comes through Chicago. On our recent trip to Los Angeles, we saw him perform (tell stories, which is what he does best) at the famed Comedy Store.
4. WTF with Marc Maron
One of my favorite comedians, Marc Maron, conducts in-depth, often candid interviews with celebrities, comedians, musicians, writers, and other notable public figures. Maron’s style is introspective, personal, and raw, often leading to open and revealing conversations about career struggles, creative processes, personal challenges, and life philosophies. The show has featured a wide range of guests, including Barack Obama, Robin Williams, and musicians like Keith Richards. Maron's unique approach to interviews, blending humor with vulnerability, has made WTF a favorite for those looking for insightful discussions that go beyond surface-level celebrity chatter.
5. Discover Universal
For an inside look at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, this podcast is terrific. Hosted by Universal experts, the show provides tips, secrets, and behind-the-scenes stories about rides, attractions, and experiences at the parks. Each episode explores different aspects of the resorts, from new attractions and seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights to restaurant recommendations and hotel reviews. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a theme park veteran, the podcast helps make the most of a Universal trip by diving into insider knowledge and fan-favorite features.