15 Podcasts That Are Perfect For Long Commutes

Commuting to work can be a physical and emotional struggle even before the day begins. One way to make the grind bearable is to listen to a podcast on your way to work. Thankfully, you can find a podcast on nearly every subject under the sun, from political news to pop culture and even niche topics like couples counseling. There is something for everyone to listen to.

1. The Daily

Image Credit: The New York Times.

Listen to “The Daily” podcast by The New York Times during your commute to stay updated on what’s happening in the world. Political journalist Michael Barbaro and other hosts discuss the biggest stories of our times for about 20 minutes a day, five days a week.

2. Pop Culture Happy Hour

Image Credit: npr.

This daily podcast is the perfect way to stay updated on all the film, television, music, and pop culture news. Plus, the Friday episode runs a little longer than the normal 20-minute episode on the other days.

3. Stuff You Should Know

Image Credit: iHeartMedia, Inc.

Join Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant as they explore diverse topics from psychology to historical events and everything in between. Pop culture-savvy topics backed by solid research will keep you entertained and informed as you wait in traffic.

4. Footballguys The Audible

Footballguys The Audible
Image Credit: Footballguys.

This podcast primarily covers college football and NFL topics, offering insights, analysis, and discussions about the sport. Hosts Sigmund Bloom and Cecil Lammey give detailed information about every matchup and relevant player so you’ll be up to speed for next week’s game.

5. Daily Tech News Show

Image Credit: Daily Tech News Show.

Tune in to this podcast for daily coverage and analysis of the latest technology news and trends. Hosted by veteran tech journalist Tom Merritt, the show features discussions with experts, industry professionals, and fellow journalists to offer insights into the ever-evolving world of technology.

6. Let’s Fix Work

Let's Fix Work
Image Credit: Laurie Ruettimann.

Laurie Ruettimann, a well-known HR influencer, speaker, and author, delves into various aspects of work, leadership, and the ever-evolving workplace landscape. Listen to expert insights, advice, and thought-provoking discussions about all things work. This is a great podcast to listen to on your way to work if you’re in a leadership position at your company.

7. What’s Good Games

Image Credit: What’s Good Games.

Join hosts Andrea Rene and Brittney Brombacher as they discuss the latest news and events in the gaming industry. This includes announcements, releases, controversies, and developments in the video game world.

8. 99% Invisible

Roman Mars 99% Invisible Host
Image Credit: 99% Invisible.

Hosted by Roman Mars, the podcast focuses on design and architecture, exploring the often-overlooked elements that shape our world. The podcast covers topics related to the history, cultural significance, and impact of various architectural elements in our built environment.

9. Serial

Serial
Image Credit: Kenneth C. Zirkel, Own Work – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

This groundbreaking podcast follows a seasonal format, focusing on a different true crime story each season. The story unfolds over multiple episodes, creating a narrative that engages listeners and encourages them to follow the investigation.

10. Up First

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This podcast is tailored for morning listeners, offering a brief but comprehensive summary of the most important news stories. This is perfect for commuters who want to know the latest news but want more than just the bite-size information of daily news bulletins.

11. Fresh Air

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This interview-style podcast is hosted by Terry Gross and a long list of contributors who talk to the most interesting people in the world today. Guests include rappers, filmmakers, scientists, political leaders, and more.

12. The Mindful Minute

Image Credit: Meryl Arnett.

Listen to this podcast for meditation tips, guided sessions, and dharma talks on mindfulness and meditation practices. Each episode follows a specific theme, like dealing with stress, cultivating gratitude, and more.

13. PsuedoPods

PsuedoPods
Image Credit: Escape Artists Inc.

This horror podcast features readings of short horror and dark fiction stories, often by established and up-and-coming authors. Episodes can include interviews with authors, discussions about specific works, and special-themed episodes. The host’s mysterious persona adds a unique touch and helps maintain the show’s dark atmosphere.

14. Consider This

Image Credit: npr.

The podcast delivers the latest national and international news and significant stories, offering a well-rounded view of current events. In addition, the hosts pick a topic every day and provide in-depth analysis and discussions on it.

15. How I Built This

Guy Raz How I Built This
Image Credit: Guy Raz.

Join Guy Raz as he explores the stories behind the creation and growth of successful companies and movements. The podcast features interviews with entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders. Each episode offers an in-depth interview with the founder or key figure behind a successful business or initiative.

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