Embarking on a long car ride offers the perfect opportunity for some podcast listening—a chance to be together while maintaining a comfortable silence or sparking discussions about a shared topic. As a family, we embrace our inner nerd, and fortunately, many family-friendly podcasts cater to that vibe. Here’s a curated list of podcasts that you can enjoy with your teen, or even solo if you prefer.
- Serial: If you haven’t tuned into this groundbreaking series yet, what are you waiting for? This gripping exploration of high school dynamics, the legal system, and the nature of memory will captivate older teens, although it does touch on mature themes like sex and drug use. With recent developments in the story, it’s a great excuse to revisit it. Plus, you can delve into various discussions and additional resources surrounding the case.
- This American Life: Often hailed as one of the best podcasts ever, each hour-long episode centers around a specific theme, exploring it through engaging first-person narratives.
- Ask Me Another: This delightful NPR game show has become a family favorite, blending word games, music, and current events. Get ready to shout answers at the windshield—yes, our geeky side shines through!
- Invisibilia: Another compelling NPR offering, this show investigates the unseen forces that drive human behavior. The debut episode, featuring a blind man who uses echolocation to navigate his city, is absolutely mesmerizing.
- Radiolab: A unique science podcast that delves into various topics in unexpected ways. Their episode on colors was particularly enlightening, while another featuring a man intentionally walking through latrines in Africa to cure his allergies was gross yet fascinating.
- Welcome to Night Vale: This quirky radio show set in the mysterious town of Night Vale combines humor and creepiness, akin to a blend of Twin Peaks and Gravity Falls, filled with charming inside jokes.
- The Vinyl Cafe: Hosted by Stuart Maclean, this podcast tells the humorous and heartwarming tales of the fictional Dave and Morley. It’s sure to resonate with younger kids too, and it’s a cherished Canadian classic.
- No Such Thing as a Fish: Join four British researchers from the TV show QI as they share the most intriguing things they’ve learned recently. This podcast is a treasure trove of trivia that might just make your teen the most interesting person in the room.
- Hardcore History: My child describes this podcast as having a history teacher who actually makes history engaging. Dan Carlin presents historical events in a way that will change your perspective, even if history usually puts you to sleep.
- Stuff to Blow Your Mind: This spin-off from the popular How Stuff Works podcast tackles intriguing questions about the world, like why short naps feel refreshing while long ones leave you groggy.
- The Sporkful and Spilled Milk: The Sporkful is dedicated to food enthusiasts, with host Dan Pashman tackling essential culinary questions like what really constitutes a pizza. Spilled Milk, hosted by Molly Wizenberg and Matthew Amster-Burton, offers a lighthearted take on cooking and snacking—perfect for the restaurant lover at heart.
If you’re unsure how to dive into the podcasting world, just ask your child! For additional guidance, check out this helpful video from Ira Glass of This American Life. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
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Summary: Podcasts serve as a wonderful tool for strengthening the relationship between parents and teens. With a variety of genres ranging from storytelling and trivia to insightful discussions on human behavior, these recommended podcasts not only entertain but also offer platforms for meaningful conversations.