I’m always looking for ways to maximize my time and squeeze the learning opportunities out of every day. One of the best ways I’ve found to do so is by listening to podcasts. I put one on every day while I’m getting ready, and it’s an awesome way to learn and grow without really having to think much about it. These are the three I listen to every morning to get me focused, motivated, and ready for my day:
- NPR’s Up Next
This is the podcast that gets me ready to go out into the world and be a contributing member of society. It’s a short (10 to 20 minutes) run-through of all of the world’s top news — politics, natural disasters, major events, etc. Then, when somebody brings it up in conversation, I know what’s going on and appear to be a well-informed individual. Also, the hosts are completely objective. (Seriously, they must be incredible poker players. I’ve been trying to pin down their political agenda for months.)
2. Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations
I’ve never been super into spiritually or really whimsical, romantic ideas — but I have to admit, this podcast is gold. Oprah drops gems on gems on gems about how to lead a more balanced, happier, successful life. And it’s not just random, far-off thoughts that you’re left to interpret. It’s real, tangible, things you can implement into your daily life. Plus, her voice is really calming and it kinda gets me into a “zen” mood for the day.
3. The Brilliant Idiots
Warning, this one is definitely not for the faint of heart, which is exactly why I love it. Hosted by Charlemagne The God and Andrew Schulz, it’s an edgy, intelligent conversation between the two, and nothing is off limits. Irreverent? Yes. Off-color? Absolutely. But the angles they take are the kind that make you think “woah, I never would have thought of it like that”. I love this podcast because it inspires me to be sharper, feistier, and more thoughtful throughout my day.
