All Of It: Best Podcasts to Listen to This Holiday
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Lauren Pacell, Founder of Tink Media and Podcast Curator
Release Date: November 26, 2024
Duration: Approximately 24 minutes
Introduction
In the holiday episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart teams up with podcast industry expert Lauren Pacell to curate the perfect list of podcasts for listeners embarking on long journeys during the Thanksgiving season. The episode, titled "Best Podcast to Listen to this Holiday," delves into a diverse selection of shows that cater to varying tastes, ensuring that every traveler finds something engaging for their trip.
Guest Introduction: Lauren Pacell
Lauren Pacell brings her extensive expertise to the table, discussing current podcast trends and offering personalized recommendations. As the founder of Tink Media and curator of the "Podcast" newsletter, Lauren shares insights from her experience writing for Life Hacker and spotlighting standout podcasts across different genres.
Podcast Recommendations
1. Normal Gossip
Host: Kelsey McKinney
Timestamp Highlight: [04:29]
Lauren introduces Normal Gossip, a podcast that transforms mundane, everyday gossip into compelling storytelling. Hosted by Kelsey McKinney, the show features listener-submitted tales that reflect universal themes of communication and relationships.
Notable Quote:
"It's one of those shows that I think actually probably is so much harder to make than it sounds." - Latif at [04:29]
Clip Summary:
In a recent episode, a listener shares a story about a Halloween costume dilemma involving a handmade Statue of Liberty hat from the mayor's mother. Kelsey skillfully navigates the narrative, encouraging guests to ponder, "What would you do next?" thereby making each episode a choose-your-own-adventure experience.
2. The Competition
Focus: America's Junior Miss Scholarship
Timestamp Highlight: [09:22]
The Competition documents the experiences of teenage girls participating in America's Junior Miss, the nation's most lucrative scholarship competition held in Mobile, Alabama. Hosted by Shima Olier, a former contestant, the podcast offers an intimate look into the lives of these young women, especially in the context of significant societal changes like the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Notable Quote:
"The whole time you're just rooting these girls on with her." - Latif at [10:32]
Clip Summary:
A poignant moment features contestant Selma discussing her upbringing and the pressures faced during rehearsals. The podcast not only highlights the competition but also delves into broader issues of socio-economic diversity and personal resilience.
3. Hysterical
Creator: Dan Taberski
Timestamp Highlight: [13:30]
Dan Taberski's Hysterical is a limited series that intertwines personal narrative with broader societal themes. Starting in 2011, the podcast follows a young woman dealing with a mysterious illness, blending elements of mystery and human interest.
Notable Quote:
"He's a great observer. He makes wonderful observations. It's funny, it's smart, it's kind." - Latif at [14:20]
Clip Summary:
The series explores complex topics like conversion disorders and Havana syndrome, all while maintaining a gentle and inquisitive tone. Taberski's immersive storytelling invites listeners to accompany him on a journey of discovery and empathy.
4. Handsome
Hosts: Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, Mae Martin
Timestamp Highlight: [16:12]
Handsome is a weekly comedic podcast where three distinct comedians share stories from their lives, offering humor and heart in equal measure. The hosts engage in light-hearted conversations about childhood antics, career experiences, and personal anecdotes.
Notable Quote:
"It's just done with such heart. They're absolutely hysterical together." - Latif at [16:20]
Clip Summary:
In a memorable episode, Tig Notaro recounts dressing up as John Travolta for Halloween, leading to unexpected social attention. The podcast blends relatable humor with unique perspectives, making it an ideal companion for evening downtime.
5. Judge John Hodgman
Host: Judge John Hodgman
Timestamp Highlight: [20:34]
A beloved show where Judge John Hodgman mediates quirky and humorous disputes among friends, families, and couples. Each episode presents unconventional problems that require Hodgman's unique brand of wisdom and wit.
Notable Quote:
"They're very, very weird problems, even weirder solutions." - Latif at [22:51]
Clip Summary:
In the episode titled "Mr. Commode's Wild Ride," Hodgman handles a bizarre request from a guest who wishes to have her ashes flushed down a toilet. The show balances absurdity with heartfelt resolutions, making it both funny and endearing.
6. Girl V Horse
Focus: Nicole "Teeny" Teeny's Journey
Timestamp Highlight: [22:56]
Girl V Horse is a compelling narrative podcast that chronicles the journey of Nicole "Teeny" Teeny, a long-distance runner with epilepsy, as she attempts to outrun a horse. The series combines elements of personal struggle, athletic ambition, and scientific exploration.
Notable Quote:
"The sound... It's really immersive and the story is good. It's got absolutely everything." - Latif at [22:56]
Clip Summary:
Listeners experience Teeny's challenges and triumphs firsthand, enriched by high-quality production that captures the essence of her mission. The podcast offers an inspiring tale of perseverance and the human spirit.
Listener Interactions
Throughout the episode, Alison and Lauren invite listeners to share their favorite podcasts and engage in the conversation via calls and texts.
Notable Listener Contributions:
-
Alice from Nyack:
"The podcast that I've heard that I think is absolutely hilarious is 'Were You Raised by Wolves?' The title just cracks me up, particularly because I do use that phrase myself."
Timestamp: [19:12] -
Anonymous Texts:
- "Check out the excellent new series De Novo about a migrant teenager who was deported from the U.S. It's a radio play, but also a podcast."
Timestamp: [12:22] - "I listen to political podcasts during the day when I take a walk...I've been listening lately to Mobituaries with Morocca."
Timestamp: [15:46]
- "Check out the excellent new series De Novo about a migrant teenager who was deported from the U.S. It's a radio play, but also a podcast."
Conclusion
Alison Stewart and Lauren Pacell wrap up the episode by reinforcing the curated podcast list, ensuring that listeners are well-equipped with entertaining and thought-provoking shows for their holiday travels. They tease the next episode, which will explore Thanksgiving topics such as managing family dynamics and preparing the perfect turkey, promising continued engagement and community building.
Closing Remark:
"Thanks so much. We're gonna talk about someone who is an oldie but a goodie, a friend of the show, Judge John Hodgman."
Timestamp: [20:34]
All Of It continues to serve as a vibrant hub for cultural conversations, inviting listeners to explore the vast landscape of podcasting through curated recommendations and engaging discussions.