
Smartless, Wiser Than Me, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing–although we don’t like to admit it, we know there are other podcasts out there besides our beloved PWN’s Debut Review (which by the way you can listen to on Apple & Spotify). There are so many options that when you’ve finished the latest episode of PWN’s Debut Review, you might be overwhelmed by which podcast to queue up next. To help you, we asked our PWN Team what they are listening to these days. Here are their answers:
Our Songwriting instructor, Mimi Cross, who wrote PWN’s Debut Review’s theme song, “Don’t Look Away,” said:
“I’ve checked out quite a few podcasts but the only one I return to over and over (unless you count Fresh Air and On Being as podcasts) is PWN’s Debut Review!
Hearing about a writer’s influences, inspiration, and process is always fascinating. Every guest is unique, as is their work, but I can always relate to the thread—or maybe I should say fire!—of creativity that connects us all.”
Aw, thanks Mimi!
Our Personal Essay instructor, Kate Devine, said:
“A few different literary podcasts have been captivating to me lately. The Bleeders recorded one with Allie Rowbottom about her creative process and publishing two books. Otherppl with Brad Listi is a weekly literary podcast featuring in-depth conversations with authors. There are 800 episodes so chances are you can scroll through until you see an author name you recognize and give it a listen. In addition, I’m also a regular listener of Sounds Like A Cult and The Ezra Klein Show. Ezra Klein recently recorded with Jane Hirshfield about the art of noticing, which I also listened to maybe three times. Can you tell I really am captivated by these conversations?”
Our Memoir instructor and book inc Peer Artist Leader, Jennifer Gaites, said:
“I’m always listening to Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. His quick wit makes me laugh out loud (which is embarrassing while I’m walking alone in the park) and I really enjoy his rapport with his podcast team. He has great guests—actors, comedians, writers, and musicians. A few weeks ago, he had Michelle Zauner on. Since we’d read Crying in H Mart last year with our Memoir Incubator group, it was fun to hear their chat. Most recently, I was captivated by his conversation with Julia Louis-Dreyfus. She, of course, is so funny in her own right, and now I want to give her new podcast, Wiser Than Me, a listen!”
Our Children’s Literature instructor and book inc Peer Artist Leader, Michele Prestininzi, said:
“Recently I’ve been captivated by SmartLess with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. The premise is to connect and unite people from all walks of life about shared experiences through dialogue and hilarity. It’s lighthearted and funny and has an easy banter between the hosts. Each week one of the hosts reveals the mystery guest to the other two. Their guests typically hail from the arts, and more often than not, a guest will reveal a nugget of truth that gives you pause. (If you like the band U2, check out Bono.) Each podcast runs about an hour––perfect for a road trip.”
Our outreach instructor and book inc Peer Artist Leader, Jennifer Shields, said:
“I’ve recently checked out and love Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis Dreyfus. She interviews older female trailblazers and has deep conversations. And of course, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing is helpful for any writer navigating the publication process.”
We hope this helps you pick your next podcast. Happy listening!