I think when some of us hear the word podcast we immediately think of those that deal with technology or those in which a few tech nerds sit around and chat about tech-related topics.
But podcasts are so much more than tech. Though they’ve been around a little while they are still a revolution. They are incredible. They are excellent. You just have to weed through the popular ones sometimes in order to find what you might be looking for.
Sea Kayak Podcasts
I’ve decided that 2014 is going to be the year I start kayaking. Of course I’ve been doing research on kayaks, gear, local rivers and streams, techniques, and so much more. But the one source of both inspiration and information that I’ve enjoyed the most has been a podcast found at Sea Kayak Podcasts dot com.
Talk about non-tech. The site, as far as I can tell, is being administered using Apple’s iWeb application. But it doesn’t really matter. The content is wonderful. I’ve throughly enjoyed catching up on the last few years of episodes during my ride to and from our office over the last several months.
Fresh Air
My love of Terry Gross, host of NPR’s Fresh Air, is [no secret](https://www.google.com/search?q=site:colin.getbarley.com+terry gross&aq=f&oq=site:colin.getbarley.com+terry gross). I listen to nearly all episodes of Fresh Air and certainly every episode hosted by Terry. Why the podcast and not the radio? Because there are absolutely no commercials. Once in a blue moon the episode will open with a sponsor blurb or something but that is few and far between.
The Alton Browncast
Alton may be a nerd but at least his show isn’t about tech. It is about food and cooking and the people that cook food. He answers questions sent in and also accepts call ins. Great show.
Also, of note, is his episode with Giada De Laurentiis. I don’t want to say anything too crass but I can say that my opinion of her changed dramatically after listening to Alton’s excellent interview with her. He really pushes her to answer honestly.
Here’s The Thing
Alec Baldwin talking soothingly into your ear and constantly interrupting his guests. You needn’t know anything else. One tip: I recommend a good whiskey with this one.
If you’re in the market for a podcast that helps you get away from technology for a few minutes at a time perhaps you’ll enjoy one or all of these too. If you have any that you’ve enjoyed please feel free to pass them along to me.