10 Essential Pop-Culture Podcasts

## 10 Essential Pop-Culture Podcasts

Podcasts have become a vibrant medium for exploring pop culture, offering listeners a variety of perspectives on everything from movies and music to current events and celebrity gossip. Here’s a curated list of ten essential pop-culture podcasts that you should consider tuning into.

### 1. **Still Processing**

Hosted by Wesley Morris and Jenna Wortham, *Still Processing* delves into cultural phenomena with depth and insight. The hosts discuss a wide range of topics, including TV, movies, and art, often reflecting on how these elements resonate with personal and societal issues. Their engaging conversations make this podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of culture and identity[1][4].

### 2. **Pop Culture Happy Hour**

This NPR podcast is known for its lively discussions about the latest in film, TV, music, and literature. With episodes averaging around 25 minutes, it’s perfect for quick insights into what’s trending in pop culture. The hosts bring a mix of humor and critique to their conversations, making it both entertaining and informative[1][4].

### 3. **The Read**

Hosted by Kid Fury and Crissle, *The Read* offers a humorous take on pop culture and current events. The duo is known for their sharp commentary on celebrity antics while also celebrating the things they love. This podcast is ideal for listeners who enjoy a blend of comedy and critique[1][4].

### 4. **Keep It**

Featuring hosts Ira Madison III, Louis Virtel, and Aida Osman, *Keep It* examines the overlap between politics and pop culture. Each episode includes interviews with celebrities and discussions on current events, providing listeners with thoughtful insights wrapped in humor[3][4].

### 5. **Song Exploder**

In *Song Exploder*, musicians take apart their songs piece by piece, sharing the stories behind the music. This podcast offers a unique look at the creative process and is perfect for music lovers who want to understand the intricacies of songwriting[1][3].

### 6. **Culture Gabfest**

A product of Slate, *Culture Gabfest* features critics discussing the latest in movies, TV shows, and cultural trends. The format is more structured than some other podcasts but still maintains a conversational tone that keeps listeners engaged[4].

### 7. **The Joe Budden Podcast**

This podcast dives deep into music and urban culture, featuring discussions on hip-hop trends, personal stories from the hosts, and interviews with industry insiders. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in contemporary music scenes[2].

### 8. **WTF with Marc Maron**

Marc Maron’s podcast features candid conversations with various celebrities from different fields. Known for its vulnerability and depth, this show often explores the personal stories behind public personas[3].

### 9. **Disgraceland**

Hosted by Jake Brennan, *Disgraceland* combines true crime with music history by exploring the darker side of rock stars' lives. Each episode tells gripping stories about musicians involved in scandals or crimes, making it both entertaining and educational[5].

### 10. **99% Invisible**

Focusing on design and architecture's impact on our daily lives, *99% Invisible* offers insights into how often-overlooked aspects of culture shape our environments. Hosted by Roman Mars, this podcast encourages listeners to appreciate the subtleties of design in everyday life[1].

These podcasts not only entertain but also provoke thought about the cultural landscapes we navigate daily. Whether you're looking for humor, deep dives into music, or critiques of current events, there’s something here for every pop-culture enthusiast.

Citations:

[1] https://resonaterecordings.com/curated-podcast-lists/best-pop-culture-podcasts/

[2] https://www.podpitch.com/blog/top-10-must-listen-pop-culture-podcasts-for-pr-professionals

[3] https://www.audible.com/blog/article-best-pop-culture-podcasts

[4] https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/g32401977/pop-culture-podcasts/

[5] https://www.loveblackgirls.org/post/podcasts-that-satisfy-your-pop-culture-itch

[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/popculturechat/comments/14u6r32/pop_culture_podcasts_that_are_funnyfeel_like/

[7] https://player.fm/featured/pop-culture

[8] https://www.vulture.com/article/best-pop-culture-podcasts.html