Podcasts are the soundtrack to my life as a stay-at-home mom. A modern-day talk radio, podcasts are my background noise while I’m washing dishes, folding laundry, baking with my kids, or driving around town. Depending on the content, sometimes I listen with one headphone on/one headphone off (so I can still hear the kids!), or I go without and my kids listen to my podcasts much like I remember listening to my dad’s talk radio station as we ran errands on Saturday mornings.
A relatable mom podcast will always keep my interest (fun fact: The Mom Hour was my first introduction to podcasts!), but as much as I love my kids, I of course have interests outside of motherhood. I know I’m not alone! Whether you are listening at home like me, or while spending the day at the office, The Mom Hour team is bringing you our favorite podcast recommendations* that are NOT about motherhood. Read on to find out who we’re listening to and why we love them!
Maintenance Phase with Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbes
Not your typical health and wellness podcast, Maintenance Phase debunks wellness and weight loss advice, deep diving into the truths about wellness fads and health scams.
Why do we listen?
“Mike and Aubrey are hilarious and put a ton of time and energy into the episodes. I feel more aware at the end of every episode.” — Jayme Sherrod, Contributor
We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle
Each week Glennon, along with her wife Abby and sister Amanda, addresses tough topics, from eating disorders to marital problems, job struggles, addiction, or setting boundaries. She gives people permission to feel hard things in hopes that they’ll find freedom.
Why do we listen?
“Glennon, Abby, and Amanda tackle tough topics from reproductive rights to how to find your daily joy. I love how they speak and find their perspectives eye opening and thought provoking.” — Sarah Limberg, Contributor
“It really digs deep into mental health and I always come away with a practical tip, a feeling that I’m not alone, and hope!” — Chaunie Brusie, Contributor
Pantsuit Politics with Sarah Stewart Holland & Beth Silvers
Sarah and Beth give a different approach to the news, prioritizing curiosity over conflict.
Why do we listen?
“Sarah and Beth help me think more deeply about what’s going on in the world and how it relates to my personal values.” — Catie Parrish, Brand Partnerships Manager
Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Celebrity Dax Shepard interviews other celebrities in his down-to-earth podcast that “celebrates the messiness of being human.”
Why do we listen?
“Funny story: I had a real chip on my shoulder about Armchair Expert when it seemed to blow up overnight a few years ago, and I actively didn’t want to add it to my rotation. But an interview with Julia Louis-Dreyfus in the early days of the pandemic sucked me in, and now I listen to almost every episode and I wholeheartedly GET why it’s a wildly popular listening experience.
If you’re new to AE, scroll the vast archives and pick a celebrity you already love and listen to their interview (practically everybody has been on).” — Sarah Powers, Co-host
Your Own Backyard with Chris Lambert
This documentary podcast investigates the disappearance of Cal Poly student, Kristin Smart.
Why do we listen?
“As a true crime podcast fan, it’s hard to narrow down to my favorite one. The storytelling style of this series is so well done and the host’s voice makes it easy to listen to—although the nature of the podcast is still hard to hear. The crime took place in 1996, and the case has finally gone to trial (in part, thanks to this podcast). The podcast now shares weekly trial updates.” — Stacy Bronec, Contributor
Smartless with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes & Will Arnett
In this comedy interview podcast, Jason, Sean and Will engage with a surprise guest, connecting and uniting people from all walks of life.
Why do we listen?
“I almost don’t care who the hosts, Will Arnett, Sean Hayes, and Jason Bateman, are interviewing each week. When they make fun of one another, it just makes me laugh.” — Joanne Ruelos Diaz, Contributor
Best Laid Plans with Sarah Hart-Unger
From planning techniques to organizing philosophies, Sarah Hart-Unger covers everything you need to know about planning and the planning tools she loves.
Why do we listen?
“I love planners and planning, and I feel inspired to try out different methods of planning after listening!” — Joanna Martin, Contributor
Here are a few more Mom Hour team-recommended podcasts to add to your podcast lineup:
If you enjoy pop culture:
If TV shows make you nostalgic:
Pod Meets World (Boy Meets World)
Office Ladies (The Office)
Welcome to Our Show (New Girl)
If you are in the mood for something funny:
If you love a good movie or TV show:
What Women Binge with Melissa Joan Hart
*As we’re all moms, we have to mention that many of these podcasts are not for little ears. Happy listening with headphones!
