If you’re currently engrossed in something else, hit pause and download all seven episodes of the S-Town podcast right now. Seriously, you might want to temporarily park the kids in front of a screen, pop in your headphones, and banish any mom guilt because this podcast is that captivating.
In a mere 48 hours, I devoured the entire S-Town series, which might speak volumes about my self-discipline (or lack thereof). During that time, I couldn’t tell you if I took a shower, if my kids were fed, or if the outside world even existed. One listener aptly described it as stepping into a novel — it’s that immersive. Only this tale is based in reality and packed with a potential murder, a brilliant yet eccentric clockmaker harboring secrets, buried treasure, and a jaw-dropping twist that’ll leave you reeling. Trust me, I learned a lot.
Meet John B. McLemore
Meet John B. McLemore, a man disillusioned with Woodstock, Alabama, yet unsure why he hasn’t left. The show’s synopsis paints it well: “he enlists Brian, a producer from This American Life, to delve into the life of a wealthy family’s son who boasts about getting away with murder. But when another death occurs, the quest for answers spirals into a bitter feud, a treasure hunt, and the unraveling of one man’s enigmatic life.” I mean, how can you resist?
And did I mention it’s completely free?
S-Town, short for Shit-Town, was crafted by the same brilliant minds behind Serial and This American Life. After spending roughly seven hours with Brian Reed, I felt like we were best buds. He brings the town to life with such warmth, humor, and relatability that it’s as though I was right alongside him navigating John B. McLemore’s labyrinth or pondering the possible murder while in a tattoo shop.
Having grown up in a small town filled with quirky characters and unsolved mysteries, I was enthralled by how the creators peeled back the layers of culture, socioeconomic status, and race in this Alabama town. I even dreamt about visiting Woodstock — yes, I’m a bit obsessed with this story!
I won’t spoil it by revealing any more details; you need to experience every shocking twist for yourself. At one point, I had to pause just to gather my thoughts because my jaw quite literally dropped. I highly recommend sharing this experience with someone else so you can process the rollercoaster of emotions together — or risk becoming that annoying friend who can’t stop raving about it.
Variety reported that the S-Town podcast shattered records, racking up over 10 million downloads in just four days. Once you start listening, you’ll see why.
If you want to dive deeper into topics related to home insemination, check out this other blog post for more insights on the journey. And for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Cleveland Clinic’s guide on IUI procedures or learn more about couples’ fertility journeys on Make a Mom.
In summary, the S-Town podcast is an engaging, twisty tale that will keep you hooked. You won’t regret diving into this mix of suspense, humor, and real-life drama.