Today I'm sharing my latest obsession: podcasts. I had no idea there were so many good ones out there until recently. Plus, it is a pretty cool way to consume content while you are doing other things, like going on the subway, cooking or walking to work, so these activities get less boring and routinary.
Even though I am a very visual person (I don't like audiobooks very much for instance) this has been a captivating medium for me. You get familiar with other people's stories, learn from their process, obtain amazing references, or simply listen and appreciate the efforts and love put into somebody's work.
Are you loving podcasts and don't know which new ones to hear?
Below a compilation of exceptional shows, from thought-provoking conversations on design to storytelling that strikes your heart.
Design
- Design Matters
Design Matters features wide-ranging conversations with designers, writers, artists, and creative leaders. Not only are the guest and topics always fascinating, but every episode is a masterclass in interview technique, Debbie does her homework well. It is an absolutely delightful listen and I could not recommend it more.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
Or find them on Soundcloud.
- Clever
Designer Amy Devers and Design Milk's Jaime Derringer are having candid and revealing conversations with major creatives who are shaping the world around us through design. The energy that Amy and Jamie bring makes it fun and entertaining, plus they cover various niches, problems and solutions inside of the industry. It is inspiring to hear people's beginnings and how they got to where they are today. To give you an idea, the latest podcast featured none other than the world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind!
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
Or find them on Soundcloud.
- The Observatory
This podcast teams Design Observer founder Jessica Helfand with Pentagram’s Michael Bierut. They are two heavy-hitters of graphic design who are long-time friends and colleagues; two incredibly articulated, open minded, and brilliant people talking about recent issues and controversies, in discussions that are refreshingly expansive. They do get design-nerdy, but there are interesting connections made to the world outside the designer bubble. It is casual, current, and entertaining.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
- 99% invisible
The point of 99% invisible is to talk about architecture and design — good design, that which is unnoticed and almost invisible (hence its name), and how it has an impact on your everyday lives. These aspects of life that aren’t given a second thought, till Mars and his team come along and force you to think about the consideration that goes into making a pleasant experience — especially one that stands the test of time. One of it's particularities is that each episode is rarely over 25 minutes (usually under 15), so it is perfect for when you want short, insightful sound bites.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
Or find them on Soundcloud.
- The Poster Boys
This is one is a very fun podcast in the design landscape. This monthly cast is hosted by Brandon Shaefer and Sam Smith. They talk about all things graphic design, but their two biggest focuses are design history and poster design. Their in-depth coverage of movie poster design is not only insightful, but entertaining for audiences with any interest in design.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
Plus: they compile the graphic art and links mentioned in the podcasts in their Tumblr (where they also have the episodes available for listening). Go and check because there are definitely some beautiful references over there.
- Creative Mornings
CreativeMornings, is conceived as breakfast lecture series for the global creative community. The podcasts brings some of the most remarkable and inspiring archived talks—from hometown heroes to design legends to community leaders—straight to your headphones. One Friday every month, more than 140 cities get together to have coffee and listen to a short talk. Every event is free of charge and open to anyone. Unfortunately, you don't always have the luck to enjoy these events around your home city, so this is a marvelous way to get to hear those wonderful talks.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
Non-Design but equally awesome
Because I believe in a holistic approach to design, a short bonus list of podcasts that are worth listening as well. We must go beyond the design world and remember: who are we designing for? What is it that connects us and makes us human?
- Ted Radio Hour
The TED Radio Hour is a journey through fascinating ideas: astonishing inventions, fresh approaches to old problems, new ways to think and create. Based on Talks given by riveting speakers on the world-renowned TED stage, each show is centered on a common theme. It is a great mix of TED and NPR; introducing new ideas or reconstructions of old ideas with the "back story" of the presenter. Fantastic information for everyone to hear.
You can suscribe to the podcast here.
- Strangers
From Lea Thau, Peabody award-winning producer, comes this outstanding dose of storytelling. This one is on the list precisely because one of the aspects we should strengthen as designers is empathy, and this podcast generates this through brilliant, startling glimpses into stranger's lives. Featuring true stories about the people we meet, the connections we make, the heartbreaks we suffer, the kindnesses we encounter, and those frightful moments of life. This show is quite unique, it is raw and marvelous.
You can suscribe to the podcast on iTunes here.
- Invisibilia
Invisibilia (Latin for invisible things) is about the invisible forces that control human behavior – ideas, beliefs, assumptions and emotions. Co-hosted by Lulu Miller, Hanna Rosin and Alix Spiegel, Invisibilia interweaves narrative storytelling with scientific research. A very interesting podcast for anyone looking for an engaging story, an eclectic grouping of topics and some great insights into the human condition.
You can suscribe to the podcast here.
Which podcasts Are you enjoying lately? I would love to hear your thoughts and recommendations!