Podcasts that Spark Joy

It seems like everyone has a podcast these days and I’m fully in support of this movement. As much as I love TV, sometime’s it’s nice to ease into the workday with a podcast, and I love listening to a group of friends chat about something they’re passionate about. Podcasts almost feel like a modern day talk show to me (especially the ones with rotating guests). Below are some of our go-to podcasts that we look forward to listening to every week:

Rewatch Podcasts:

Office Ladies

Angela Kinsey + Jenna Fischer started Office Ladies back in 2019 where they re-watched every episode of The Office. They share behind the scenes stories, fun facts, and recap each episode really thoroughly. They really mastered the re-watch format and their dynamic as BFFs is so joyous. Since finishing the re-watch they now upload one off episodes where they deep dive a specific character, or interview someone that worked on the show. It’s the one podcast I listen to as soon as it’s released. I can’t get enough!

That Was Us

I don’t have any intention of rewatching This Is Us, since it won’t ever be as special as the first go round. However, I love Mandy Moore, Sterling Brown and Chris Sullivan so I decided to give their re-watch podcast a go- and when I tell you it’s an IMMEDIATE favorite for me I mean that with my whole heart. They upload their episodes to YouTube and I’ve watched every single one. These three have incredible chemistry and I appreciate their vulnerability. They share personal stories that relate to each episode, and I often times find myself getting emotional while listening. Like Office Ladies they have a solid rewatch format so I don’t even feel like I need to watch the episode prior to listening.

And That’s What You Really Missed

I’m adding this one to the list because I listen to most of the episodes, but a major complaint I have with this Glee re-watch podcast is that they have virtually no structure. Kevin and Jenna are great but I wish they had a producer helping them to properly recap each episode. They often times just talk about the performances and barely touch on plot points. If that doesn’t bother you I still recommend this one for fans of Glee. They have some solid interview episodes and from time to time they have some juicy stories to share about their time on set.

For Entrepreneurs:

How I Built This

I think this is the very first podcast I ever got into. Guy is an impeccable host. He does his research on his guests and makes them feel so comfortable with opening up. He has interviewed some incredible founders that have built big brands, and after listening to an episode I immediately feel reinvigorated to focus on my business. Two of my favorite episodes are Sara Blakey of Spanx and Craig Culver of Culver’s (being a Wisconsin native myself).

Second Life

Hillary is such a joy to listen to and I think her special sauce is that she relates to the gals she’s interviewing without ever making the interview about herself. She’s so gracious and hangs on their every word. Second Life focuses on women who are now in their “second life” and I love hearing this perspective, because I feel like I’m always reinventing myself and it’s a reminder that that is ok, and encouraged.

Interview Style:

Armchair Expert

Dax and Monica are OG podcasters and they are true experts at this point. I don’t listen to all of their podcast variations, but I love their celerity interviews because these two GO DEEP. I’m the type that strongly dislikes small talk- I want to hear your whole life story- and this podcast encourages people to share everything.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Amy just started her podcast and I’m wondering why she wasn’t doing this her whole adult life. She radiates joy and has the best energy. This is another one I watch on Youtube and I don’t think I’ve listened to a podcast with more laughter. This is one I listen to at the top of my day to set the tone. Obviously Amy has so many amazing famous friends so I can’t wait to see who she has on next!

Just for Fun/Lifestyle:

A Beautiful Mess

Emma and Elise are sisters that run the iconic lifestyle blog ABM. I’ve followed them for over a decade and I love that their podcast is an extension of their blog. They talk about their favorite movies, books, recipes, and interior design trends. Its an easy listen and I can’t get enough. They don’t upload as much these days, but I always look forward to new episodes on Mondays.

Books, Beach, & Beyond

This was a new discovery for me this past summer, and its the perfect listen for a book lover like me. The iconic Elin Hilderbrand, and Tim Ehrenberg, interview authors like Emily Henry and Ina Garten (I know!). They only do a handful of episodes each season so it’s easy to catchup on, or just pick and choose which ones catch your eye.

Inside Trader Joe’s

This is a silly little podcast for anyone that loves Trader Joes, like me. I don’t listen to every episode but I never miss one of their grocery list eps where they roundup what’s coming to stores. Often times they tease a product a month or so out, which creates so much anticipation for me, and I’m always on the lookout for new products each week.

Please let me know what your favorite podcast is and why!

xx, Britta