Long drives, whether for a road trip or your daily commute, can sometimes feel like a drag. But they don’t have to be! With the right podcasts, your time behind the wheel can be filled with entertainment, knowledge, and even a little inspiration. The world of podcasts is vast, offering everything from true crime mysteries to motivational speeches and thought-provoking discussions. If you’re looking to spice up your drive time with great audio content, here are some of the best podcasts to tune into while on the road.
1. “The Daily” by The New York Times
If you’re someone who likes to stay up-to-date with the latest news, The Daily is the perfect podcast for your drive. Hosted by Michael Barbaro, this 20-minute podcast delivers top news stories, dives into current events, and provides insightful analysis—all in a digestible format. Whether it’s politics, global events, or breaking news, The Daily keeps you informed and entertained. The short length is perfect for a commute, so you can catch up on what’s happening in the world during your drive.
2. “Stuff You Should Know” by iHeartRadio
This is one of the most beloved podcasts out there for good reason. Hosts Josh and Chuck dive into an eclectic range of topics, explaining everything from the history of mayonnaise to how hurricanes form. If you’re curious about how the world works, Stuff You Should Know will certainly satisfy your thirst for knowledge. With each episode running about 40-50 minutes, it’s an ideal pick for a medium-length drive, making it both educational and entertaining.
3. “My Favorite Murder” by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
If you’re a fan of true crime, My Favorite Murder will be your perfect driving companion. Hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark share both famous and lesser-known murder cases, adding their own humor and personal anecdotes along the way. It’s a perfect balance of chilling and funny, making it an enjoyable listen even for those who aren’t usually into true crime. The episodes can run up to an hour or more, so it’s a great option for longer road trips.
4. “Armchair Expert” by Dax Shepard
For those who love in-depth interviews with celebrities and experts, Armchair Expert hosted by Dax Shepard is a must-listen. Dax, along with co-host Monica Padman, interviews people from various walks of life—actors, writers, scientists, and more. The podcast often dives into personal stories, struggles, and successes, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at people’s lives. With episodes that typically last around 60 minutes, it’s great for a long drive where you want to dive into conversations that are both deep and relatable.
5. “The Moth”
If you’re in the mood for compelling storytelling, The Moth offers some of the most fascinating real-life stories told by ordinary people. Every episode features true stories shared live on stage, ranging from funny anecdotes to deeply moving experiences. Whether it’s a heartwarming tale or a humorous mishap, The Moth will transport you to different worlds through its diverse lineup of speakers. It’s ideal for a drive when you want to sit back, relax, and hear some truly captivating stories.
6. “How I Built This” by NPR
For the entrepreneurial spirit or anyone interested in inspiring success stories, How I Built This is a must-listen. Hosted by Guy Raz, this podcast features interviews with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators who share the journeys behind the companies and products they’ve created. From the founders of Patagonia to the creators of Airbnb, How I Built This provides an inside look into how businesses and brands grow from ideas to successful enterprises. It’s a great way to spark inspiration while cruising down the highway.
7. “TED Radio Hour” by NPR
Inspired by the TED Talks format, TED Radio Hour curates some of the most fascinating and inspiring talks from the TED stage. Topics vary widely, ranging from science and technology to creativity and personal development. The episodes feature expert speakers who share their knowledge in digestible chunks, making it easy to learn something new while driving. With episodes that usually last around 50 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a road trip or a longer commute.
8. “The Happiness Lab” by Dr. Laurie Santos
If you’re looking for a podcast to boost your mood, The Happiness Lab hosted by Dr. Laurie Santos is the perfect pick. Based on her popular Yale course on the science of well-being, Dr. Santos delves into practical tips and research-backed strategies to improve happiness and well-being. Whether it’s managing stress, improving relationships, or cultivating positive habits, The Happiness Lab offers tools to make your life more fulfilling. It’s perfect for a reflective drive, allowing you to apply some of the insights to your own life.
9. “Reply All” by Gimlet Media
If you enjoy podcasts with a mix of tech, internet culture, and investigative journalism, Reply All is for you. Hosts PJ Vogt and Alex Goldman cover a wide range of topics, from internet mysteries to tech mishaps, often uncovering hidden stories behind online trends. Whether it’s tracking down internet scams or exploring how digital culture shapes our world, Reply All provides insightful and often funny commentary. The episodes are typically about 30 minutes, making it a great option for quick commutes or when you need something thought-provoking to keep you engaged.
10. “Song Exploder”
Music lovers will appreciate Song Exploder, a podcast where artists break down their songs, explaining the creative process behind the music. Whether it’s a pop hit, indie track, or a movie score, artists reveal the thought, inspiration, and technical details that went into creating their music. If you enjoy discovering the inner workings of your favorite tunes, Song Exploder is an engaging listen that pairs perfectly with any road trip playlist.
In Conclusion
Next time you’re behind the wheel, skip the silence or repetitive radio stations and discover a new podcast to enhance your drive. Whether you want to stay informed, have a good laugh, learn something new, or find inspiration, there’s a podcast that can make your time on the road more enjoyable. With top-quality sound from your car audio system in Utah, press play and transform your drive into an entertaining experience!
