Politics for 20-somethings isn’t always the most riveting, popular or stimulating topic. But, this is the time (now, more than ever!) for Millennials and Gen-Z guys and gals to get in the know, stay up to date and truly capture, understand, ponder and take action in present-day politics. Not only will this help you grow into a mature and well-informed adult, but it will be a deciding factor in how our country proceeds and grows in terms of leadership, legislation, policy – the works.Â
But, I know politics can be a little intimidating for people who have never given it much thought, and you may not know where to start. Don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for! Podcasts are such a simple and entertaining way to get your news and stay up to date on what’s happening in US and world politics, news and current events in general. Listen to these podcasts when you’re on your morning walk, having coffee, doing chores or whatever it may be and you’ll realize that a typically mundane 15 minutes can turn into an entertainingly educational productive task that you’ll end up looking forward to.
- “Today, Explained”Â
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“Today, Explained” is Vox’s daily explainer podcast that really just gives you the run-down of the day prior concerning major current events (always national and usually international as well), keeping you informed on the nation’s top stories. The host, Sean Rameswaram, gives you that witty pick-me-up that you need to get through some heavy current events. This podcast will guide you through the most important stories at the end of each day. You can listen to “Today, Explained” on Spotify and their website!
- “The Michelle Obama Podcast”
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This podcast, my new current favorite, is hosted by Michelle Obama as she takes the reins and talks about topics from family to women’s health, White house politics to being a mother and a best friend. Her podcast features the former First Lady in conversations with her husband, friends, colleagues and loved ones about the “relationships in our lives that make us who we are.” The first episode features an open, candid and heart-warming conversation with her husband, former President Barack Obama, and her first season features chats with Conan O’Brien, Valerie Jarrett and more! This is a must-listen in our current political climate for all young people. You can listen to “The Michelle Obama Podcast” on Spotify.
- “Pod Save America”
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“Pod Save America” is an unfiltered, very real and informative conversation about politics hosted by former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer and Tommy Vietor. This podcast does a good job of bringing political satire to the news and helps people figure out what matters and how they can help. This has been a popular podcast for political junkies in their 20s as it is engaging and lets you have a good laugh, while also learning what you need to know about our political climate. Although episodes are on the longer side, they do only come out twice a week so you can pace yourself! You can listen to “Pod Save America” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play or their website.
Granted, this is only an introduction to the podcast world but, I would argue, a much-needed foundation to have in our current political and social climate charged with clashing ideas and questionable issues. Hopefully, this will inspire you to take a listen to these entertaining and informative bits of knowledge and you can start your day or end your evening with a little taste of politics!