If you’ve never explored the wonderful world of podcasts, get ready to meet your new favorite down-time distraction. Similar to talk radio shows, they generally consist of a host or hosts who discuss subject material, interview guests, tell stories, or some combination thereof. Many have theme or background music, and regular commercials by sponsors, just like radio or TV programs. Podcasts can make excellent audio entertainment while you’re working on mindless tasks, commuting, cleaning, cooking, or doing anything that doesn’t require your full attention. Pop on your headphones whenever you need to dip into someone else’s world.

The best podcasts come in a whole range of genres, from comedy podcasts to storytelling, true crime podcasts and cooking shows, cleaning and organization, interview podcasts, sports, history, and even more. Some of your favorite radio shows like This American Life also have their own podcasts, and news organizations put out podcasts to supplement their written or visual material, too. Length can also vary widely. Short podcasts can be just 10-15 minutes long, while long podcasts can stretch over a couple of hours. Because the medium has grown in popularity over the last decade or so, the field of podcasts can get overwhelming. We’ve waded through and found some of our favorites for both podcast beginners and dedicated listeners who need something new and exciting to add to their queue.