Podcast Love

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I am a little bit obsessed with podcasts.

In a world where narrowcasting is becoming the mode, I love the availability, flexibility and adaptability of the podcast. Doing chores? Commuting? It's lovely to listen to interesting voices on command, so I thought I'd list out my favourite ones which are all searchable in iTunes (in no particular order) and would love to hear yours.

Enough Rope - I love the way Andrew Denton interviews people - they seem to open up to him in ways they might not otherwise. A good cross-section of interviewees, too.

KCRW Bookworm - This is an excellent book program hosted by Michael Silverblatt out of the Santa Monica studios of KCRW. I think Silverblatt is a compellingly good and interesting interviewer - he has read all the books of the authors he interviews and has a very cool perspective on narrative. And extra points for the intro music!

BBC Newspod - In case I feel like some world news, I quite enjoy the briskness of the BBC - so authoritative and British!

JapanesePod101.com - I subscribe to this to keep up with my Japanese study - one of the best free language resources on the net. I think they have an Italian pod, as well, which would be well worth having a look at.

Background Briefing - A Radio National gem - very informative look at an issue or country.

All in the Mind - A fascinating look at the brain in all sorts of different modes. I love this one.

Life Matters - A laid back look at all sorst of issues that affect families and people - probably meant for an older age demographic than me, but sometimes I find it very comforting!

Big Ideas - A look at big concepts and issues, such as Ross Garnaut's report on climate change.

Religion Report - The title sort of gives this one away! A very cool look at different aspects of different religions and issues that arise accordingly.

Correspondents' Report - Interviews and discussion with ABC correspondents stationed overseas. Very interesting.

ABC Insiders - My favourite Australian politics podcast. A meaty hour-long broadcast with interviews and debates from all sides. So good.

Rear Vision - Great concept. This podcast looks at a current event, and attempts to offer an historical background to the situation.

Easy French Poetry - This is the most beautifully read podcast of French poetry, which is later explained and analysed (in French) by the Parisian Camille. Swoon!

RN Shuffle - A good mixed bag of the week on Radio National. Good if you want to catch up on news quickly.

Learn to Meditate - I've been listening to this as a way to relax during PhD time. A really nice way to focus.

Lowy Institute Podcast - This is an excellent online resource. It's a podcast of the Wednesday Lowy Lunch recorded weekly with international experts on global affairs.

Sunday Night Safran - As pointed out in the comments, this is a must, and I can't believe I forgot to add it the first time! Father Bob and John Safran make for a hilarious duo, talking about religion, politics and life in general. Very giggleworthy indeed.

These two podcasts are not searchable on iTunes, but are also well-worth listening to:

Open Yale Courses - This is a sensational nerdy resource with about ten first-year courses from Yale University - each with about 24 lessons. Eeee! All the fun of uni without any of the stress.

Agatha Christie Radio Mysteries - Original recordings of the great lady's stories. Amazing!

What are some of your favourite podcasts? I'd love to add more to the list!