After the kids are in bed, it's relaxation time. But I can't relax if my house is a mess. So before I can kick up my feet and turn on the latest episode of Love Island (this season has been crazy, btw) I have to tidy up the common areas, do the dishes, wipe down the surfaces, etc., etc.
Far be it from me to do this in complete silence. I need something to keep me entertained while scraping soggy mac and cheese off plastic plates. Enter podcasts.
I love podcasts. I have a large rotation that I am subscribed to and listen regularly. But the six podcasts below are curated especially for the folks who are cleaning at night, and want to be entertained but not hyped or frightened. Leave the terrifying true crime shows in the light of day where they belong.
1. The Opportunist
This show covers a special category of scammer: someone who seemingly stumbles across a unique opportunity that inspires a maybe otherwise normal person to fall into the scam life. This season is about Peggy Fulford, a financial manager that ended up stealing millions from celebrities, including Dennis Rodman.
2. Stuff You Should Know
I recommend this show all the time. Each episode covers a different topic and the hosts dive deep into said topic with lots of great unbiased research. The topic range is as big as you can imagine. In the past month, they have covered the Maya Civilization, ultra-processed foods, Roe V Wade, and alien contact. Something for everyone!
3. Here's The Thing
KevOnStage is a popular influencer and his cohost That Chick Angel is an actress, comedian, and influencer in her own right. Once a week they talk about pop culture, music, and more. Their recent episode discussing the Mario/Omarion verzuz was particularly hilarious.
4. Real Dictators
Ever wonder how dictators came to be? No? Well, you should still listen to this podcast. It covers dictators from all over the world and details their childhoods, rise to power, and eventual downfall. Idi Amin and Genghis Khan's episodes were incredibly fascinating. Sometimes it seems like we are all just a few oopsie daisies away from being under the thumb of a corrupt and tortuous government.
5. Snap Judgement
True radio magazine-style journalism with amazing stories and storytelling from unexpected places. Think This American Life, but with more seasoning.
6. Criminal
I know what I said earlier about true crime podcasts, but this one is different. It's not the blood and horror genre of true crime. Host Phoebe Judge covers stories like a bourbon heist, the shortcomings of the criminal justice system, and the Stanford Prison Experiment.
What are you listening to these days?