All Of It: Episode Summary – "Looking for Podcast Suggestions? (2025 Summer Preview)"

Release Date: July 1, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Lauren Pessell, Podcast Curator and Founder of Tink Media

Introduction

In this summer preview episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart engages listeners in a lively discussion centered around podcast recommendations perfect for summer travels. Joined by podcast expert Lauren Pessell, the duo delves into a variety of shows spanning genres from personal finance to family-friendly content, and from political intrigue to entertaining celebrity interviews.

Featured Podcast Recommendations

1. Deadheads

[01:02 – 05:23]

Lauren introduces "Deadheads", a podcast that explores the intricacies of personal finance through the lives of friends Jamie and Rachel, who are grappling with debt. Unlike typical money-focused shows, "Deadheads" adopts a "fun and melodic" tone, making discussions about money both engaging and relatable.

• Lauren Pessell: “If it has to do with money, the tone is absolutely what sets this show apart. It is fun. It, it is breaks the mold.” [01:29]

The hosts employ innovative storytelling techniques, incorporating voice notes and unexpected audio elements that keep listeners intrigued. A notable episode features Jamie visiting TJ Maxx with her mother and grandmother, adding a delightful and surprising twist to the narrative.

• Jamie Feldman (Clip): “true crime investigation into the murder of our bank accounts.” [01:29]

2. What We Spend

[03:30 – 04:45]

Next, Lauren discusses "What We Spend", a podcast that functions as a smart money diary where individuals share their weekly expenditures. The show provides profound insights into the diverse financial struggles faced by real people across the country.

• Lauren Pessell: “People get so honest. I think you're learning what real people are going through in this country and that are very, very different than you.” [03:44]

3. We're Doing the Wiz

[05:23 – 08:37]

"We're Doing the Wiz" from Radiotopia is highlighted as a standout series that merges humor with profound social commentary. The podcast chronicles the experiences of black students being bused into a predominantly white performing arts school, navigating cultural dynamics through theatrical performances.

• Lauren Pessell: “It's also really funny and heartwarming. I mean, anything about kids putting on any sort of theatrical performance is going to be wildly amusing.” [06:17]

A poignant clip from the podcast illustrates the tension and humor inherent in the students' assignments, shedding light on broader themes of race and cultural identity.

• Lauren Pessell (Clip): “I chose D.W. Griffith, the director and writer of the movie Birth of a Nation. The Birth of a Nation, in case. It is also terribly, viciously racist.” [07:41]

Family-Friendly Podcast Recommendations

[08:58 – 10:46]

Alison prompts Lauren to suggest podcasts suitable for family listening during summer road trips. Lauren offers a diverse array of options catering to various age groups and interests:

• "Judge John Hodgman" – Humorous legal disputes.

• "Text Me Back" – Hosted by Lindy West, featuring engaging conversations.

• "Ologies" – Hosted by Alie Ward, this podcast explores different scientific fields in a fun and accessible manner, with a kid-friendly version available.

• "Radio Lab for Kids" – A child-friendly extension of the acclaimed "Radio Lab."

• "Terrestrials" and "Secret Incredibly Fascinating" – Both focus on making typically mundane topics entertaining.

• "Simpsons Taught Me Everything" – Delves into the cultural lessons from "The Simpsons," promoting family bonding over shared media.

• Lauren Pessell: “She interviews all sorts of ologists, scientists, and it's so fun. She even has a kid-friendly version of it, but it's already pretty kid friendly.” [09:19]

Listener Contributions

[10:46 – 12:33]

Listeners contribute their favorite podcasts, expanding the episode's recommendations:

1. Reclaiming by Monica Lewinsky

[10:56 – 11:25]

• Laurie (Ridge, NY): Recommends Monica Lewinsky's "Reclaiming", a podcast focused on overcoming personal reputations, highlighting Lewinsky's articulate storytelling and interviewing prowess.

2. Companion Podcasts for TV Shows

[11:31 – 12:14]

• Gerard (West New York, NJ): Suggests seeking out companion podcasts for favorite TV shows, mentioning "Poker Face", a companion to the show "Natasha Leone", which enhances community engagement among fans.

• Lauren Pessell: “I almost look forward to the podcast as much as I do to the show every week.” [12:14]

3. Additional Recommendations

[12:33 – 15:35]

Listener texts introduce varied podcasts:

• "All Vampires Are Gay" – A lighthearted, treat-like podcast for fans of shows like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."
• "Act Like a Mother" – Focuses on actresses and actors who are also mothers, providing insights into the entertainment industry and motherhood.
• "Sepsis Spectrum" – Explores sepsis as a leading cause of death in hospitals, presented as an informative and critical health documentary.

In-Depth Podcast Spotlights

1. Sergeant Tibbs

[14:09 – 16:08]

Lauren spotlights "Sergeant Tibbs", a poignant documentary from New Hampshire Public Radio. The series narrates the tragic story of a 19-year-old Maine Coon cat who goes missing, unraveling into a tale of community conflict and personal loss.

• Lauren Pessell: “... it's just this, at the end of the day, it's about that, you know, the people in the town end up looking terrible.” [14:27]

A compelling clip highlights the unusual nature of the protest sparked by the cat's disappearance, emphasizing the depth of the community's emotional investment.

• Nancy Solomon (Clip): “... this is not a protest you've seen on the news before. This protest is about someone's pet.” [15:35]

2. Dead End: The Rise and Fall of Gold Bar Bob Menendez

[16:08 – 18:24]

Nancy Solomon introduces her own podcast, "Dead End: The Rise and Fall of Gold Bar Bob Menendez", a second-season follow-up that delves into the political corruption surrounding Senator Bob Menendez. The series combines elements of love, espionage, bribery, and power, offering a deep dive into one of America's prominent political scandals.

• Nancy Solomon: “It's nutritional and fun at the same time.” [16:49]

A sample clip from the podcast teases the dramatic unfolding of events leading to Menendez's downfall.

Celebrity Podcast Recommendation

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

[18:24 – 19:32]

Alison and Lauren discuss "Good Hang", Amy Poehler's acclaimed podcast. Contrary to typical celebrity interviews, "Good Hang" is praised for its authentic and casual conversations, revealing a more genuine side of Poehler and her guests.

• Lauren Pessell: “It's because it's, it feels more casual. It doesn't feel like these people are on a press junket.” [18:40]

The podcast stands out due to its unique editing style and the meaningful connections Poehler fosters with her guests, making it a refreshing listen in the realm of celebrity podcasts.

Final Recommendation

Proxy with Yowei Shaw

[19:32 – 20:11]

Concluding the episode, Lauren recommends "Proxy", hosted by Yowei Shaw of "Invisibilia" fame. The podcast serves as a conduit for individuals seeking to untangle personal problems by connecting them with others who have faced similar challenges, offering relatable insights and empathetic narratives.

• Lauren Pessell: “She's kind of helped acting as a proxy for people that have problems.” [19:49]

Conclusion

Alison Stewart and Lauren Pessell wrap up the episode by underscoring the diversity and richness of podcast offerings available for summer enjoyment. From financial narratives and family-friendly stories to political thrillers and authentic celebrity chats, the episode provides a comprehensive guide for listeners seeking engaging audio content for their summer adventures.

Notable Quotes:

• Lauren Pessell on "Deadheads": “If it has to do with money, the tone is absolutely what sets this show apart.” [01:29]

• Lauren Pessell on "What We Spend": “People get so honest. I think you're learning what real people are going through in this country and that are very, very different than you.” [03:44]

• Lauren Pessell on "We're Doing the Wiz": “Anything about kids putting on any sort of theatrical performance is going to be wildly amusing.” [06:17]

• Lauren Pessell on "Good Hang": “It feels more casual. It doesn't feel like these people are on a press junket.” [18:40]

This episode of All Of It serves as an invaluable resource for podcast enthusiasts and casual listeners alike, offering a curated selection of shows that cater to a wide array of interests and preferences, perfect for enhancing the cultural tapestry of summer days.