Top 10 Best Podcasts for Seniors

Check out our list of the most popular podcasts for seniors to keep your brain stimulated while staying up-to-date on just about any topic.
Relaxes senior woman listening to favorite podcast with big headphones

In case you haven’t heard, podcasts are a great way to learn, listen and get information and entertainment. A podcast is like a radio show that you can listen to whenever you want. Podcasts are pre-recorded shows posted to the internet that you can listen to via iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher and more. You can also subscribe to a podcast so that new episodes are automatically downloaded to your device as they become available.

Just like there are tons of different radio shows out there covering all sorts of topics, there are also thousands of different podcasts covering everything from true crime to business tips to comedy. Finance. Health. Music. Books. Politics. Arts. Mindfulness. Meditation. Sports. Comedy. Fashion. Exercise. Whatever your interest, there’s a podcast for it.

Here’s Senior Assistance Club’s list of the Top 10 Best Podcasts for Seniors. Once you get going, you’ll never look back.

1. Freakonomics Radio

You’ve probably heard of the book, Freakonomics by Steven Dubner and Stephen Levitt. Freakonomics Radio is one of the most popular podcasts for seniors.

It reveals how economics features in just about every part of life, from health to home, from entertainment to leisure pursuits.

2. Guided Meditations

If you’re looking for calm and soothing insights, check out this podcast. You’ll find ways to reduce stress and build your skills in staying calm. Guided Meditations creator Tara Brach is a psychotherapist and student of Buddhist philosophy.

3. Planet Money

The NPR Planet Money podcast focuses on economics, in a down-to-earth way. It’s engaging and diverse, filled with personal stories and challenges. You’ll find out whacky bits on how to raise free-ranging chickens and heart-wrenching stories of immigrants coming to South Florida.

4. The Alton Browncast

Love to cook? Then you’ll want to tune in to The Alton Browncast. A renowned chef and Food Network star, Brown shares recipes, tips, and tricks. Stay up to date on the newest culinary trends. Meet master chefs and get inspired to whip up a storm.

5. 99% Invisible

This creative podcast, 99% Invisible, takes a deep dive into the design world we live in. This show expands your mind as you get to know the world. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll be listening to radio personality Roman Mars, and seeing things with just a little more sparkle.

6. The Handyguys

Is home improvement your fascination? If so, you’ll enjoy The Handyguys podcast, which offers insights into home improvement and DIY projects. If you’re curious, love to fix things, or just like to hear how at-home builders really think—this one is for you.

7. You Must Remember This

Explore the secrets of Hollywood. Find out the good, the bad, and the ugly stories behind the entertainment industry. You Must Remember This has been featured in the New York Times and Entertainment Weekly. If you love the classics, you’ll enjoy this podcast. It’s filled with stories you may never have known before.

8. Stuff You Missed in History Class

This podcast focuses on historical events you might have missed. From cultural events to social transformation–this podcast will give you the context that you may not have realized. Stuff You Missed in History Class explores the little-known features of historical events. You can select episodes for the eras that most interest you, discover world history, and listen to interviews. Check it out if you’re a history buff.

9. This American Life

This podcast focuses on non-fiction stories, human nature, and how real events affect real people. Hosted by Ira Glass, in This American Life, you’ll get a front-row seat to stories in each episode. Some are humorous, some melancholic—but all are riveting. If you love listening to stories about American life, this is the podcast for you.

10. Aging in Full Bloom

Aging in Full Bloom is a podcast for older adults hosted by Lisa Stockdale and is dedicated to all forms of wellness as they relate to aging, including topics like finding the best hearing aids for seniors and choosing the right caregiver. It offers loving and thoughtful advice on growing older and how you can manage it in this changing world. If you’re looking for helpful insights to feel empowered, entertained, and energized, this is the one to listen to.

What’s The Best Podcast for You?

Elderly man on a sofa holding a mobile phone and listening to music on headphones

You’re in charge.

It really depends on what you find fascinating, invigorating, and rejuvenating. Follow your interests and explore all the options that fit the categories you prefer.

Alternatively, stretch your wings. Listen to podcasts about topics you’ve never considered. If you’ve been focusing exclusively on politics, branch out and listen to meditation podcasts. If you’ve been deep into history, explore present-day stories.

By stretching your scope, you’ll learn, grow, and discover new interests. Plus, you’ll have a lot more things to share with friends and family. Staying flexible with your interests is a great way to stay energized.

Assistance Club Summary

The #1 idea: Podcasts offer a great way to learn, grow and stay entertained. They are easy to listen to, available on the internet, and can be listened to anytime anywhere.

If you haven’t started listening to podcasts, a world of fun is waiting for you. If you’re already deep into podcasts branch out— experiment and explore different topics. What’s on your podcast list?