Listening to podcasts as a hobby offers an accessible way to explore diverse topics, relax, and gain new perspectives. Podcasts are free or inexpensive and can be enjoyed anywhere using a smartphone or computer. Start by downloading a podcast app, browsing directories, or exploring charts to find inspiring content. This hobby fosters learning, reduces stress, and enhances mental well-being.

Listening to Podcasts
as a hobby
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Helpful content to get started
The page is curated to inspire and help you get started with listening to podcasts as a hobby.
Overwhelmed? Play a random video or podcast to start getting familiar with listening to podcasts.
We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always use your judgment. Refer to the listed resources for further research.
Videos
Short visual inspiration.
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Podcasts
Play an episode while exploring the page.
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With millions of podcasts available, listeners can access a wide range of viewpoints and opinions, broadening their understanding of the world.
Terms
Basic lingo for orientation.
- Directory: A public or private repository of submitted RSS feeds that allow podcast players to access listed podcasts.
- Podcast App: A software application used to listen to and manage podcasts (e.g., Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts).
- Podcast: An on-demand audio-first form of content, primarily distributed through an RSS feed for listeners to consume through their podcast player of choice.
- RSS Feed: (Really Simple Syndication) A file that allows podcast players to access information about a podcast, including its episodes, descriptions, and artwork.
Term Videos
First Steps
How to break the ice and make a start. One Aha! moment is all you need.
- Download a podcast app; they are free and generally offer the same content, so don’t worry about which one to choose.
- Find your first inspiring podcast either through the app or by using podcast directories, search engines, podcast charts, or podcast awards websites.
First Steps Videos
Products
Essentials to have.
Product Demos
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How-Tos
Step-by-step tutorials.
How-To Videos
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Podcasts can inspire you to start new hobbies.
Books
Get read-y.
Articles
Further reading.
Benefits of Listening to Podcasts
- How Podcasts Can Impact Mental Health? | MyWellbeing
- Podcast Benefits: Why Listening to Podcasts Is Good For Your Brain | Good Housekeeping
- The impact of podcast-based interventions on mental health: A systematic scoping review | PLOS Mental Health
- Why Are Podcasts So Popular? 5 Reasons Why People Love Pods | The Podcast Host
- Why people listen: Motivations and outcomes of podcast listening – PMC
Podcast Lists
History of Podcasting
Video Articles
More video articles
Websites
Go-tos for information.
Podcast Players
- Amazon Music | Podcast
- Apple Podcasts – Web Player
- Listen to your favorite podcasts | YouTube Music
- Spotify – Podcasts
Podcast Directories and Search Engines
- Discover Podcasts Here! | PodSearch
- Discover – Pocket Casts
- Listen Notes: The best podcast search engine
- POD BIBLE | THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PODCASTS
- Podchaser: The #1 Podcast Database & API
- Spotify – All podcast categories
- The Podcast Directory | Popular Podcasts | All Podcasts
Podcast Charts
Podcast awards
Website Previews
More website previews
Movies & TV
Nothing like a good film or a show for inspiration.
Movie and TV Trailers
More movie trailers
Studies suggest that regular listening to spoken-word content, like podcasts, can expand vocabulary and improve language comprehension.
FAQS
Get a clue.
Q: Is listening to podcasts a hobby?
A: Yes, listening to podcasts can absolutely be a hobby. It’s an enjoyable and enriching way to learn, be entertained, and connect with diverse voices and topics.
Q: What are the benefits of listening to podcasts?
A: Podcasts offer diverse benefits: learning new things, entertainment, relaxation, staying informed, and enhancing your listening skills.
Q: Can listening to podcasts improve my mental health?
A: Yes, listening to podcasts can have positive effects on mental health by providing relaxation, reducing stress, and offering educational content that can improve mood and cognitive function.
Q: How do I find podcasts I’ll enjoy?
A: To find the next podcast to listen to, you can:
- Browse podcast directories by genre or categories.
- Browse podcasts charts.
- Browse podcast awards.
Q: How do I get started with listening to podcasts?
A: To get started, download a podcast app like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Pocket Casts. Browse through popular podcasts or search for topics that interest you, and subscribe to shows you enjoy.
Q: Do different podcast apps offer unique podcasts, or do they provide the same content with varying user experiences?
A: While some platforms offer original or exclusive podcasts, most podcast apps offer access to the same podcasts as they typically pull content from the same RSS feeds. The main difference between these apps lies in their user experience, features, and interface.
Q: Are podcasts free?
A: Podcasts apps are free and post podcasts are free to listen to. Some platforms offer paid subscriptions for ad-free listening or exclusive content.
Q: Can I listen to podcasts offline?
A: Yes, most podcast apps allow you to download episodes for offline listening. This is useful for areas with poor internet connectivity or during long trips.
Q: What devices can I use to listen to podcasts?
A: You can listen on smartphones, tablets, computers, smart speakers, and some car audio systems.
FAQ Videos
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Apps
Smart start.
App Trailers
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Courses
Get smart.
Video courses and trailers
More video courses and trailers
Community & Near You
Get together.
Related Videos
Listeners often feel connected to podcast hosts and other fans, creating a sense of belonging and community.
Tips
Additional advice for beginners.
Video Tips
Immersing yourself in engaging audio content can provide a form of escapism, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
Additional Information
Hobby attributes.
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