The Best Educational Podcasts for Curious Minds

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime, and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Hosted by Josh and Chuck, “Stuff You Should Know” delves into an array of fascinating topics, making complex subjects accessible and enjoyable. With an average rating of 4.5, this podcast not only informs but entertains as well. Listen here.

Radiolab is all about curiosity. With a focus on deep questions, hosts Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser utilize investigative journalism to uncover profound insights. Episodes often intertwine science, legal history, and personal stories, all enhanced by innovative sound design. Listeners get a unique auditory experience that makes learning irresistible. This show has also earned a solid average rating of 4.5. Check it out here.

This is what the news should sound like. “The Daily,” hosted by Michael Barbaro, delivers the most significant stories of our time with insightful analysis by the best journalists. Each episode runs for about twenty minutes, making it the perfect companion for a morning commute. With an average rating of 4.5, this podcast ensures that you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed. Find it here.

Exploring the biggest questions of our time, “TED Radio Hour” presents insights from the world's greatest thinkers. With host Manoush Zomorodi at the helm, this podcast encourages introspection and learning about oneself and the larger community. The series entertains with thought-provoking content while maintaining an average rating of 4.5. Listen in here.

Design is an omnipresent element in our lives, often unnoticed until brought to light. “99% Invisible,” hosted by Roman Mars, explores the impact of design and architecture in our daily experiences. With a consistent average rating of 4.5, it stimulates reflection on our surroundings and the unnoticed details that shape our lives. Discover more here.

Hosted by Stephen J. Dubner, “Freakonomics Radio” uncovers the hidden side of everything, tackling intriguing questions like why flying is safer than driving or what drives our choices in relationships. With an average rating of 4.5, the show brings economic principles to life through unexpected perspectives. Listen to it here.

In a world flooded with opinions, “Science Vs” stands out by focusing on fact-based conclusions. Each episode sifts through current fads and popular beliefs to reveal the scientific truth behind them. Covering topics from pandemics to dieting trends, this podcast maintains an average rating of 4.5 and is a critical resource for discerning listeners. Tune in here.

“Hidden Brain,” hosted by Shankar Vedantam, explores the connection between our minds and the world around us. This podcast tackles questions about creativity, relationships, and personal growth, making it a go-to for anyone wanting to understand their own mental processes better. Renowned as a top science podcast in the U.S., it boasts an impressive average rating of 4.5. Explore further here.

This unique show celebrates the quirks of human psychology, examining how our biases and beliefs shape our decisions. “You Are Not So Smart” engages listeners with compelling discussions and insights on self-deception. Its average rating of 4.5 highlights its popularity among fans of psychological exploration. Listen now.

“Planet Money” reveals the connections between everyday topics and the economy, making complex financial concepts approachable and relatable. It invites listeners to engage with the world in smart ways, aiming for an average rating of 4.5. For those seeking a deeper dive, subscriptions to Planet Money+ provide ad-free access and additional content. Discover more here.