These are the podcasts fueling our creativity, curiosity and connection this year.
At Guardian, we’re big fans of podcasts. Whether it’s a thoughtful long-form interview, laugh-out-loud panel show or something that helps us grow personally or professionally, our team turns to podcasts to unwind and level up. Some of us press play while on the treadmill or in the carpool line, while others listen to make sense of the news or spark new ideas for our work with nonprofits and mission-first organizations.
No matter how or when we listen, podcasts have become a regular part of most of our routines—and in many cases, an unexpected source of encouragement, perspective or joy.
Here are a few shows our team has been loving lately:
- Made for People with Justin Whitmel Earley: This show dives into the connections that shape us—how we build them, sustain them and prioritize them in a distracted world. It’s practical, encouraging and a great listen for anyone looking to be more deliberate about relationships. “I’ve enjoyed this new podcast! It’s about the importance of intentional community for us personally, for our marriages and our families, and it gives practical examples of how to develop deeper, more meaningful relationships.” —Courtney Hurd
- Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life: This podcast features recordings and past messages from the late pastor and author Timothy Keller. Grounded in Scripture and deeply relevant to modern life, each episode offers insight and wisdom. "As a busy working parent, I rarely take time to slow down. I've loved listening to this podcast because it always helps me pause and reflect on deeper topics. Each episode leaves me feeling grounded and encouraged.” —Adrienne Brown
- Wait Wait...Don’t Tell Me! (NPR): Need a way to stay informed and entertained? This fast-paced weekly news quiz blends current events with comedy. The panelists’ banter and unexpected guest appearances make it a go-to for lighthearted learning on the go. “It is a hilarious, news-of-the-day, radio quiz show. It’s a great way to make news fun.” —Laura McGowan
- Be Well by Kelly LeVeque: Hosted by Kelly LeVeque, this health and wellness podcast offers grounded insights into nutrition, fitness and mental well-being. The conversations are science-based, accessible and ideal for anyone looking to tune into personal health while tuning out the noise.“I have gleaned a lot from each episode I have listened to on this podcast! Not only do I find the information about physical and mental health helpful and interesting, I appreciate the different perspectives and ideas that are offered by each guest.” —Taylor Bugh
- Up First (NPR): Short, smart and straight to the point—Up First delivers the day’s top stories in under 15 minutes. It’s ideal for busy mornings when you want to stay informed without a deep dive. Thoughtfully curated and reliably objective, it’s a morning staple. “It’s my go-to for quick, dependable news first thing in the morning. It helps me feel informed without feeling overwhelmed.” —Christine Cape
- The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast: Each season of Candace’s podcast centers around one theme—like purpose, rest or relationships—explored through interviews and reflections grounded in faith. It’s heartfelt, clear-eyed and often leaves you with something practical to apply or reflect on. “I really appreciate the deep dives Candace Cameron Bure does on her podcast—focusing on a single topic for a full season—all with the foundation of a Christian worldview. Sometimes the discussions make me think, sometimes they inspire me to try something new, sometimes they help me better understand those around me.” —Jennifer David
- Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard: This conversational podcast blends depth and humor as actor Dax Shepard explores the messiness of being human. The range of guests—from celebrities to scientists—keeps it fresh, and the thoughtful interviews often touch on themes that resonate in life and leadership. “I love a long-form interview and appreciate the variety of guests, topics, humor and seriousness.” —Anna Hutsell
Whether we’re looking to learn something new, laugh out loud or just feel a little more connected, podcasts have a way of meeting us where we are. We hope something on this list sparks your interest—and maybe even becomes part of your routine, too.
