Working from home has become the new norm for many people. While it has its perks, such as no more commute and the ability to work in sweatpants, there are some aspects of office life that some may miss. The hum of office lights, the low chatter of coworkers, and the tap tap tap of a pen hitting the table during a meeting are just a few examples of the background noise that make up the chorus of office life.
If you are struggling to stay focused in the too-quiet or crowded home office, downloading a podcast may be the solution. Many people find that the added background noise helps boost their focus and makes the hours fly faster. By popping on a podcast, you can recreate the energy of a creative, productive environment and decide what your “office” sounds like. Whether it’s something educational, inspirational, or white-noise-worthy, there are plenty of awesome podcasts available to listen to while on the clock.
1. Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations
Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations is a podcast that aims to inspire listeners to become better, more insightful people. Each episode features a celebrity guest who shares their wisdom, including quarterback Tom Brady and Fixer Upper‘s Chip and Joanna Gaines. The show provides valuable insights into various aspects of life, such as reaching peak performance and maintaining a lasting personal and working relationship. Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations is a must-listen for anyone looking to reevaluate their life and gain a fresh perspective.
2. ID10T
ID10T, formerly known as Nerdist, is a weekly podcast hosted by Chris Hardwick that takes listeners on a journey into the world of pop culture. The podcast features major celebrities like Mathew McConaughey, Elizabeth Shue, and Lou Diamond Phillips, who regularly stop by to discuss their shows, favorite fan theories, and current cultural trends. For those looking to stay up-to-date on the latest in pop culture, ID10T is a must-listen podcast.
3. How I Built This
How I Built This is a podcast hosted by Guy Raz that features inspiring stories of successful entrepreneurs. The show delves into the nitty-gritty details of how these business owners started from scratch and built their empires, managing millions of dollars along the way. The guests on the show include renowned names such as Howard Schultz of Starbucks and Rick Steves, who share their secrets to success. By downloading a few episodes of How I Built This, you can gain valuable insights and inspiration to take the next step in building your own businesses.
4. Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Morbid: A True Crime Podcast is hosted by Alaina Urquhart-White, an autopsy technician, and Ash Kell, a hairstylist. The podcast covers a range of topics from kidnappings to serial killers, with a focus on a new creepy case every episode. The hosts balance the heavy topics with light humor, making it a great option for true crime fans who want to avoid getting too freaked out during the workday. Morbid is a must-listen for those who are looking for a murder-themed podcast to accompany them during their tedious tasks.
5. NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert
Listening to music can be a great way to boost productivity at work. According to scientific studies, it can also help reduce stress and anxiety, and even alleviate pain. For those looking for a unique musical experience, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert is a great option. Hosted by Bob Boilen, the show features top musicians like Adele, Passion Pit, and Alicia Keys, performing their favorite songs in an intimate setting. Tune in to All Songs Considered and enjoy the incredible music that Tiny Desk Concert has to offer.
6. The Great Fail
Sometimes, it’s important to remember that failure is a natural part of the journey to success. The Great Fail, a podcast hosted by Debra Chen, offers a space for individuals to commiserate and learn from epic business failures. Each episode unpacks the downfall of companies such as Blockbuster, Tower Records, and American Apparel, providing valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. By examining these failures, listeners can gain a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in the business world.
7. The Read
For those who miss gossiping with their colleagues, The Read hosted by Kid Fury and Crissle is the perfect solution. This weekly podcast delves into the lives of hip-hop and pop culture’s most controversial stars. The duo’s flippant and humorous attitude ensures that no celebrity is safe from their shade and tea, except for Beyoncé. Listeners can also expect surprise celebrity guests on the show. Stay up-to-date on the latest pop gossip by downloading The Read.
8. The Argument
For those who want to stay informed on current events from various perspectives, The Argument podcast by the New York Times is a great resource. Hosted by Jane Coaston, the podcast features lively discussions between guests with opposing views on hotly debated topics such as student loan debt and cancel culture. The conversations are engaging and informative, often providing listeners with a deeper understanding of both sides of the argument. Whether you’re looking to broaden your knowledge or challenge your own beliefs, The Argument is a weekly podcast that offers an enlightening and thought-provoking listening experience.
9. The White Noise Podcast
The White Noise Podcast is a perfect solution for those who need some background noise but don’t want to listen to full-on chatter. This podcast features unique background sounds such as wind and forest noises, dishwasher sounds, bubble wrap popping, mac and cheese stirring, and more. You can choose to play them sequentially or select your own favorite sound to play repeatedly for a calming ASMR experience. The White Noise Podcast is an excellent choice for those who want to focus on their work and get things done.
