As we look back at a year that offered equal parts uncertainty and discovery, we’ve compiled a list of shows that caught our attention this year.
Steph, Founder and CEO
Show: 99.9% Invisible
Episode: Articles of Interest
Why you love it:
I relistened to this podcast this year, because I forgot (what feels like) everything from 2020. I love it because it takes a small, relatable thing and uses it to expand on history, tradition, appropriation, our own perceptions of self /others and the cultural signals we use to communicate with our clothing. I have a love-hate relationship with fashion and its participation in waste, so I am always looking for ways to further understand parts of style, and this is a fun way to do so. Oh, and it’s produced amazingly, by a team of predominantly non-cis-white-dudes!
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
I am good at sudoku [puzzles]! I learned how to do them over FaceTime during the peak of the pandemic and since then I’ve been in lurv with them. On a more sincere note, I’ve grown increasingly aware of and got better at acknowledging my resilience, without it feeling like a dark gloom that taints my every day.
Ali, Producer/Editor
Show: Cocaine and Rhinestones
Why you love it:
This podcast accompanied me on many a drive this past year, and gave me so many insights into country musicians and songs that I love (but now realize) I know very little about. While sometimes the host’s long intros make my mind wander off, I thoroughly enjoy the extensively researched and at times jaw dropping stories he tells about the history of country music.
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
I’m a pretty good drummer! I don’t come from a very musical family so learning an instrument was big for me :)
“There’s something about listening to people talk about the things they love that is so fascinating to me.”
Sophie, Operations Manager
Show: The Letterboxd Show
Why you love it:
In 2021 I started using Letterboxd, a social media app for movie lovers, and it completely made me rediscover my passion for movie watching. Letterboxd released the second season of their podcast this year, where they talk to filmmakers, writers and podcasters about their favourite films. I don’t know why, there’s something about listening to people talk about the things they love that is so fascinating to me. Plus, it helps me discover new movies to watch!
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
Apparently watching 275 movies in one year is a thing I can do.
Kanika, Producer/Editor
Show: Popular Front
Why you love it:
I really appreciate the no frills political journalism they do. Along with that, the guests they have on the show are phenomenal, from grassroots Ukrainian journalists to authors writing about football hooligans. Jake Hanrahan, the host, also does a good job interviewing all his guests. A very refreshing news podcast that doesn’t just talk about things from a western point of view, but also from the perspective of people who are impacted by the news they are reporting.
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
I can feel at home anywhere. I moved to a new province and a new city, where I don’t know the language too well but still have been able to grow and find my own little community in a big city.
“It’s one of those shows that you want to give your full attention to, rather than while you’re bustling around the shops.”
Maria, Producer/Editor
Show: Lecker (Kitchen Miniseries)
Kitchens
Kitchens is a documentary series exploring the most important room in the home.
audioboom.com
Why you love it:
It was so well researched with lots of expert voices, but at the same time super intimate with personal stories from loads of different people. It also considered things like disability and gender equality in a totally natural way that contributed to the bigger picture rather than being a footnote. Lucy is totally charming in her delivery and it’s also beautiful audio quality! It’s one of those shows that you want to give your full attention to, rather than while you’re bustling around the shops.
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
I’m a really great, loyal, generous friend. BUT, as I get older and lives change, I really have to actively put effort into my friendships to maintain them.
“I really like people’s faces. I found myself drawing them, missing those of loved ones.”
Olivia, Producer/Editor
Show: Back from Broken
Why you love it:
The podcast talks with people about some of the hardest moments and periods they’ve lived through, and their recovery process. Could be moments like drug addiction, mental health or loss. I find that the conversations are really empathetic. In a year where there are pushes and uttered phrases to ‘get back to normal’ despite a life-altering pandemic, I enjoyed this podcast for examining the space and processes people need.
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
I really like people’s faces. I found myself drawing them, missing those of loved ones — I might be a bit people deprived. But it’s not all sad! I enjoyed paying attention to expressions.
“It’s so affirming to hear such a frank and reflective take on parenthood, womanhood and Blackness.”
Melissa, Marketing Manager
Show: Hope Chest
Why you love it:
The show feels intimate, personal and vulnerable. The host Stacia takes her time and doesn’t rush through the stories she’s telling, and as result — it forces you to be present as well. It’s a show that I am happy to dedicate time to, and not one for me to use as background ambience for chores (although there’s a place for those shows too). It’s so affirming to hear such a frank and reflective take on parenthood, womanhood and Blackness.
What random thing did you discover about yourself this year?
In the early months of the year I spent a lot of time rediscovering the city on very long walks, previously something I never thought I’d have the patience for, particularly in winter. I also found a new love for pickled red onion (I know I’m late).
editaudio is queer and woman-owned full-service podcast production company with a team in the UK, US and Canada. We’ve worked with clients like Google, Tinder and Harper’s Bazaar, and passionate about creating space for more marginalized voices in audio.
Check out our work here.
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