As someone who enjoys learning about various aspects of our world, I’ve found myself drawn to podcasts in recent years whilst going for a walk or on my train commute. I find they’re an excellent medium for gaining new insights and hearing compelling stories.
Here are a few of my favorites that have piqued my interest recently, ranging from global affairs to the lives of Silicon Valley billionaires.
BBC World Service: Global News Podcast
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02nq0gn/episodes/downloads
The BBC World Service is renowned for its international news and analysis, offering a unique perspective on the most pressing global issues. The “Global News Podcast”, broadcast twice daily, running for around 15 – 22 minutes, presents a thorough overview of the latest current news stories and features a balance of reporting, thought-provoking interviews with experts, policy-makers, and global influencers. The well-researched and diverse content makes it an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand our complex world.
“All In Podcast” with the Silicon Valley VC’s
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCESLZhusAkFfsNsApnjF_Cg
Hosted by Chamath Palihapitiya, David Sacks, Jason Calacanis, and David Friedberg, the All In Podcast gives listeners an intimate look into the lives of some of the most influential entrepreneurs and venture capitalists in the technology industry. Each of the hosts are famous in their own right for having invested or founded some of the biggest names in Silican Valley history. Hosted as a YouTube stream, it is also syndicated across Spotify, Apple & Google Podcast platforms. With candid discussions about innovation, investments, and the challenges of building disruptive companies, this podcast is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and technology enthusiasts alike.
An added dimension is that these guys are not shy to offer their comment and opinion on matters, which makes for an entertaining, if at times hectic broadcast. They don’t hold back.
Over the years, they have covered a range of controversial topics sparking lively debates among its hosts and guests. Notable examples include:
- Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Debating the potential risks and benefits of AI’s widespread adoption and the role of regulation in managing these concerns.
- Social Media and Censorship: Exploring the responsibility of social media platforms in managing content and striking a balance between censorship and ensuring a safe environment for users.
- Wealth Inequality and Universal Basic Income: Tackling the contentious issue of wealth inequality in the United States, with discussions on the merits and drawbacks of solutions like universal basic income.
- Gig Economy and Workers’ Rights: Examining the impact of the gig economy on workers’ rights and the responsibility of tech companies like Uber and Lyft in providing fair wages and benefits to their drivers.
- Climate Change and Clean Energy: Addressing the urgent issue of climate change, focusing on the role of the tech industry in driving the transition towards clean energy solutions and sustainable practices.
By engaging with these controversial topics and more, the All In Podcast serves as a thought-provoking platform for discussions and debates, offering listeners valuable insights into the ever-changing landscape of technology, business, and society. Released weekly.
The Lazarus Heist
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w13xtvg9/episodes/downloads
With astonishing breadth and scope, The Lazarus Heist is a riveting podcast series of 10 episodes (Season 1) that tells the incredible story of the North Korean hackers behind the infamous WannaCry ransomware attack and the $81 million Bangladesh Bank heist. This thrilling podcast unravels the intricate web of deception, fraud, and espionage that led to these high-stakes cybercrimes. The sheer breadth of the story is captivating, and the podcast does an excellent job of showcasing the real-world consequences of cyber warfare.
One of the key reasons The Lazarus Heist stands out is its meticulous research and storytelling, which allows the listener to delve deep into the shadowy world of cyber crime. This podcast is an excellent reminder of the importance of staying informed about cybersecurity and the potential risks that come with living in an increasingly digital world.
Dark Net Diaries
Hosted by Jack Rhysider, a former security professional turned full-time podcaster, Dark Net Diaries delves into the fascinating world of hackers, cyber criminals, and the underground web. Each episode features a different true story from the dark corners of the internet, shedding light on the motivations and techniques of those who operate in the shadows.
Rhysider has interviewed a wide range of guests, including cybersecurity professionals, former hackers, law enforcement officials, and even high-profile figures such as Marcus Hutchins (the cybersecurity researcher who helped stop the WannaCry ransomware attack) and Hector Monsegur (the infamous Anonymous hacker turned FBI informant known as Sabu). These firsthand accounts offer a rare glimpse into the minds of hackers and the complexities of the digital world.
Dark Net Diaries has become a key reference for cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts alike, as it offers unmatched insights into the realm of cybercrime. The podcast’s engaging storytelling, top-notch research, and fascinating interviews have earned it a place among my favorites. Dark Net Diaries serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed about cybersecurity and the potential risks that come with living in an increasingly digital world.
“The Journal” by The Wall Street Journal
https://www.wsj.com/podcasts/the-journal
Hosted by Kate Linebaugh and Ryan Knutson, this daily podcast offers a deep dive into significant news stories and events shaping the world of business, finance, and economics. With episodes typically running between 15 to 25 minutes, The Journal provides comprehensive yet digestible insights, perfect for busy listeners looking to stay informed on key developments.
The Journal features interviews with WSJ reporters, experts, and industry insiders, offering valuable context and analysis on a wide range of topics. From corporate acquisitions to regulatory changes, and from market trends to tech innovations, this podcast covers it all, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the factors that drive the global economy.
“Behind the Money” by Financial Times
https://www.ft.com/behind-the-money
“Behind the Money,” a podcast produced by the Financial Times, delves into the world of finance and economics, examining the driving forces and implications behind market trends, investments, and financial news. The podcast offers a unique perspective on the intricate connections between business, politics, and the global economy, weaving a compelling narrative that keeps listeners hooked.
With in-depth interviews featuring industry insiders, experts, and FT journalists, Behind the Money provides insightful analyses and reveals the stories behind the headlines. Whether it’s exploring the rise of sustainable investing or investigating the reasons for an economic downturn, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the financial world.
“Babbage” by The Economist
https://www.economist.com/babbage
As an Economist subscriber, I make it a point to listen to each issue as a podcast, and Babbage is a standout among their offerings. Focusing on the world of science and technology, this podcast is named after Charles Babbage, the 19th-century polymath known as the “father of the computer.” Babbage brings to light the latest innovations, discoveries, and trends shaping our world today.
The podcast presents thought-provoking discussions and insightful analyses, featuring interviews with experts, researchers, and The Economist’s own journalists. Covering a wide range of topics such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and breakthroughs in medical research, Babbage keeps listeners well-informed about the most significant developments in science and technology. It is an essential podcast for anyone looking to stay current with the rapid pace of advancements in these fields.
The Culture Mind 
I really enjoyed reading your blog post about some of the most fascinating podcasts out there. As someone who’s always intrigued by global events, I’m definitely excited about the BBC World Service and would love to check it out. Do you have any specific episodes or topics from this podcast that you found particularly thought-provoking or interesting?
MR. W
http://www.primarytinting.net
Nice Colin! Have you tried pod save the world?