10 of the Best Podcasts to Match (And Brighten) Your Current Mood

Lifestyle

Photo by Colleen Eversman @2ndtruth on Instagram

I don’t know about you, but friends, one of my main pastimes in these strange, strange days is escaping into the comforting, distant, insightful sounds of a good podcast. I listen to them with even more frequency than I did before—when I’m getting ready in the morning (changing clothes and brushing my teeth), when I’m cooking or doing dishes (…always), and when I’m unwinding at the end of the day.

Kate recently polled Wit & Delight readers on Instagram to ask what podcasts were matching their mood right now, and folks, the recommendations rolled on in…nearly 200 of them, to be exact. Today we’re sharing the podcasts that were recommended with the most fervor (and the most comments). To see all of the recs, you can check out the post on Instagram.

01

Unlocking Us with Brené Brown


This podcast was far and away the most recommended when Kate put out the ask (and, I mean, the team discussed it on a Zoom meeting yesterday and my therapist mentioned it to me on Tuesday, so…it’s in the zeitgeist). In each episode, Brené talks with experts and celebrities alike and answers listener questions in a format that’s “real, unpolished, honest, and reflects both the magic and the messiness of what it means to be human.”


02

Armchair Expert


In Armchair Expert, host Dax Shepard (and cohost Monica Padman) dive deep in conversations with celebrities and experts to uncover previously untold stories and insightful truths about life. It’s an interview format that creates some of the most vulnerable conversations out there, and it’s highly entertaining, too.


03

Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend


As one commenter wrote, this show is “a mood booster like no other” (I second this sentiment). Conan brings his eccentric, delightful sense of humor to the podcast format and interviews comedians, actors, and entertainers of all varieties. It’s sure to brighten your day, if that’s the kind of thing you’re looking for right now (raises hand).


04

Young House Love Has a Podcast


For the uninitiated, Young House Love is a blog dedicated to sharing in-depth accounts of home decor and DIY projects. It’s been around in this world of online content creation for thirteen (!) years. In 2016, John and Sherry, the Virginia couple behind YHL, started a podcast to share decorating advice, DIY tips, and interviews with experts in an audio format. It’s worth a listen if you’re a fan of approachable home decor!


05

Office Ladies


This is the ultimate podcast for fans of The Office. Co-stars Jenna Fischer (Pam) and Angela Kinsey (Angela) break down an episode of the show each week and share behind-the-scenes stories from production. It’s entertaining and an especially comforting respite at this particular moment in time.


06

Heavyweight


This podcast is moving, funny, and full of humanity. In each episode, host Jonathan Goldstein helps that week’s guest tie the proverbial bow on a past situation they wish they could change. Visits are made to hometowns, awkward yet incredibly endearing phone calls are made, and decades-long grudges or misunderstandings are forgiven. The storytelling is intricate and engaging—it’ll be hard to stop listening once you start.


07

Almost 30


Hosts Krista and Lindsey “brings listeners together—online and offline—to relate, connect, and support each other through transitions.” It’s like listening to two of your best friends from the haven that is your own living room…what could be more comforting than that right now?


08

Bon Appétit Foodcast


As you would expect from Bon Appétit, the key element of this podcast? It’s food. (I know I shocked you there, huh?) The podcast includes interviews with chefs and authors and dives deep into food trends and cooking techniques. The BA team does food pretty damn well, and the podcast reflects their expertise.


09

You’re Wrong About


In each weekly episode, hosts Mike and Sarah dive into a past event or figure that has been miscast in the public eye and try to set the record straight. It’s entertaining and educational in equal parts.


10

Second Life


Hosted by Hillary Kerr, co-founder of Who What Wear, this podcast spotlights successful women who have navigated winding, anything-but-linear career trajectories and come out on top. A few recent guests include Alison Roman, Justina Blakeney, and Kristen Bell.


Alright, your turn! Do you have any podcasts you’ve been turning to lately for comfort? We’d love to know!

BY Jackie Saffert - April 17, 2020

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Steph
April 17, 2020 12:27 pm

I LOVE “You’re Wrong About!”

April 19, 2020 11:11 am

Listened to “You’re Wrong About” on your recommendation and love it. Putting a spotlight on everyday life is important, there is so much to stop, look around and pay attention.

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