Being a graphic designer means I spend many hours in a room staring into a bright computer screen and usually away from most social interactions, so I have to keep my mind focused and active.
Although being a huge fan of music, I really enjoy the company of a good podcast playing in the background.
As well as keeping your brain and imagination active and engaged, there's the added bonus of gaining another persons perspective on topics that range from business tips and practice, interviews with comedians, scientists and nutritional experts, film critique and conversations with some of the worlds top stars.
In a study done by Emma Rodero at Pompeu Fabra University, it was found that listeners of podcasts generate more vivid images in their minds and have high levels of emotional involvement in the story. Another study proves that podcasts stimulate mental imagery more intensely and cause listeners to have to pay more attention which is especially helpful when taking a brief with the client.
Since listeners of podcasts are only listening to a story and not seeing it, it causes them to have to use their imagination and build pictures of who and what they are listening to in their head. Therefore, their imaginations are more strong and vivid than those who do not listen to podcasts and also inspiring when trying to generate new ideas.
Below are a few of my favourite podcasts from over the years as well some good episodes to start your podcast listening.
Radiolab
Radiolab is a radio program produced by WNYC, a public radio station in New York City, and broadcast on public radio stations in the United States. The show is nationally syndicated and is available as a podcast. In 2008, live shows were first offered.
Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, the show focuses on topics of a scientific and philosophical nature. The show attempts to approach broad, difficult topics such as "time" and "morality" in an accessible and light-hearted manner and with a distinctive audio production style.
Episode to listen to: The Bus Stop http://www.radiolab.org/story/91948-the-bus-stop/
Distraction Pieces
A podcast created by uk rapper Scroobius Pip where the host interviews a verity of guests from actors such as Simon Peg and Steven Graham Investigative Journalists like Jon Ronson and Graphic Novel authors like Garth Ennis. Even his mum and dad have sat in the interview chair, for what proved to be a must listen episode. Each week we are served a friendly informal chat with a guest of Pips Choice and watch out for the drunk casts which are often hilarious!
Episode to listen to: Rutger Bregman - Distraction Pieces Podcast with Scroobius Pip #190
http://www.scroobiuspip.co.uk/dp-player/?fl=https://embed.acast.com/distractionpieces/rutgerbregman-distractionpiecespodcastwithscroobiuspip-190&dl=https://media.acast.com/distractionpieces/rutgerbregman-distractionpiecespodcastwithscroobiuspip-190
The Empire Film Podcast
I've been a huge fan of film since I was young, just ask my wife about my collection of Empire Magazines that go back to 1996. Another weekly show that as well as news on all the upcoming films and shoes, we get interviews with the films stars, writers, directors, producers and reviews on the weeks cinematic releases.
Episode to listen to: Interview with William Friedkin
https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/special-william-friedkin-podcast/
Duncan Trussell Family Hour
Start chanting your favourite mantra and chug some ayahuasca and prepare to blast through the multiverse with comedian and philosopher Duncan Trussel. Like Bill Hicks before him both ancient and contemporary philosophies are combined with subversive comedy, to create one of the most unusual and entertaining podcasts out there.
Episode to listen to: Jonny Pemberton vs ATnT
http://www.duncantrussell.com/episodes/2018/1/25/johnny-pemberton-vs-att
Dan Carlins Hardcore History
A onetime talk show radio host, Dan Carlin is an amateur historian who has created arguably one the most complete history class's available on the internet. Each episode is around 3hours and goes into breathtaking detail.
Episode to listen to: wrath of the Khans's
https://www.dancarlin.com/product/hardcore-history-43-wrath-of-the-khans-i/
The Joe Rogan Experience
The daddy of modern podcasting, Joe keeps an open mind and an eclectic selection of guests. Conversations range from comedy, current affairs, health, nutrition and MMA. Some of my favourite guests that have featured on the Joe Rogan Experience include: Vice Co Founder Shane Smith, journalist and reporter Graham Hancock, health expert Dr Rhonda Patrick and musicians like Billy Coragan and James Hatfield.
The show is completely off the cuff which mean conversations often lead to interesting places.
Episode to listen to: Joe Rogan Experience #1080 - David Goggins
The Tim Ferris Show
Secrets and tips from some of the business worlds top entrepreneurs. Author of the 4 Hour Work Week and self proclaimed human Guinea Pig Tim Ferris interviews professionals of their chosen field from entrepreneur Richard Brandon, Actor and Former Governer of California Arnold Schwarzenegger and former Navy Seal Jocko Willink. The conversations are often insightful, inspiring and a good reason to go the extra mile!
Episode to listen to: Tim Ferris interviews Arnold Schwarzenegger
To be continued...
