The hottest Podcasts Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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The Abundance Agenda: The Best Of 2025

Odds and Ends of History • 469 implied HN points • 29 Dec 25
🎙 Podcasts Episodes Platforms Promotion Production Newsletter
  1. The episode is a year-end roundup that collects four favorite segments from 2025 into one special show.
  2. Listeners are encouraged to share the pod and leave a nice review, with the episode available on major podcast platforms.
  3. Links are provided to newsletters, YouTube, and social profiles so people can follow and connect with the creators.

Bodge-up and Badger

Odds and Ends of History • 335 implied HN points • 12 Jan 26
🎙 Podcasts Energy Climate Infrastructure Urbanism Wildlife Media
  1. The Abundance Agenda has been rebranded, with the podcast continuing under a new name and still available across major platforms.
  2. A village was almost cut off from civilisation for a year because of badgers, and the reason behind it is more infuriating than you'd expect.
  3. There's a hard question about reaching Net Zero when China manufactures most renewable energy technology, and experts are exploring how to reconcile decarbonisation goals with global supply‑chain realities.

Odds and ends

Disaffected Newsletter • 1418 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Content creation Social media Communication Education Personal Growth
  1. Many fans of content creators develop a strong emotional connection and may feel betrayed if they disagree on issues. It's important to recognize this tendency and keep your reactions in check.
  2. Younger generations often struggle with basic writing skills, making it harder for them to communicate clearly. This gap shows how education has changed over time.
  3. Copyright law is often misunderstood, especially with platforms like YouTube enforcing their own rules. Many people don’t realize that fair use allows for commentary and critique without violating copyright.

Upcoming Podcast: What Should I Ask Virologist and Former CDC Director Robert Redfield?

The DisInformation Chronicle • 145 implied HN points • 24 Jan 26
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Public Health Science Politics Books Media
  1. Former CDC director and virologist Robert Redfield will be the podcast guest to talk about his experiences with HIV and COVID, and to discuss his new book on infectious diseases and vaccines.
  2. Listeners are asked to submit questions in the comments, with paid subscribers encouraged to contribute so their questions can be asked on the show.
  3. The interview will be posted on the podcast’s YouTube channel and could attract wider media attention, so subscribing to the channel is recommended.

How The Dossier will stand out in a sea of AI slop

The Dossier • 89 implied HN points • 09 Feb 26
🎙 Podcasts Audio Video Production Distribution Monetization Audience Content Technology
  1. AI is flooding the internet with quickly generated, low-quality content that often looks like human writing, so creators must adapt or get lost in the noise.
  2. Authentic video and audio—especially podcasting—are the clearest ways to prove a real human is behind the work and to stand out from AI-generated “slop.”
  3. Pairing traditional writing with verifiable multimedia keeps journalistic quality while highlighting genuine human insight, turning the AI surge into an opportunity for creators who can prove they’re real.
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DisInformation Chronicle Podcast with NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya

The DisInformation Chronicle • 290 implied HN points • 31 Dec 25
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Health Science Policy Government Research Academia
  1. A new podcast will interview interesting, smart thinkers and plans to release new episodes about twice a month at first.
  2. The first episode features NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya discussing his move from Stanford professor to the government role that manages a huge chunk of biomedical research funding.
  3. Future guests will be announced ahead of time so paid subscribers can suggest questions, and listeners are invited to suggest guests and consider subscribing.

The Abundance Christmas Quiz!

Odds and Ends of History • 469 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
🎙 Podcasts Transport Infrastructure Urbanism Public Transit Christmas
  1. A special Christmas quiz episode focuses on transport, infrastructure and urbanism topics in a festive format.
  2. The quiz is hosted by Only Connect question-writer Stephen Jorgenson-Murray and features panellists CityEd and comedian/author Andrew Hunter Murray.
  3. The episode is part of The Abundance Agenda podcast, available on major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and Substack, with links to hosts' newsletters and a request for listeners to share and leave reviews.

David Senra: Why Founders Rule The World

Danielle Newnham • 19 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Business Education Entertainment Entrepreneurship Storytelling
  1. David Senra hosts a podcast that focuses on the lives and lessons of famous founders. Each episode dives into a biography and teaches valuable lessons from their journeys.
  2. David's childhood was tough, but he found inspiration in books. Those stories helped shape his dreams and aspirations.
  3. He believes that successful founders share traits like self-delusion and obsession, which help them pursue ambitious goals despite challenges.

Open thread and poll: what live interviews and podcasts would you like to see going forward?

Unreported Truths • 10 implied HN points • 13 Mar 26
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Live shows Audience engagement Scheduling
  1. They're thinking about adding live interviews and podcasts and deciding whether to commit to a weekly show or do occasional episodes; if a good guest isn't available they might just do solo riffs.
  2. They want readers to suggest topics and realistic guests, asking for names and ideas while noting some high-profile figures may be unrealistic.
  3. They're weighing production details like a better studio background and appreciate that Substack makes video hosting easy, but they still view writing as their main focus.

The holiday web traffic surge isn't coming this year

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 374 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🎙 Podcasts Media industry Content creation Tech Innovations Audience engagement
  1. This holiday season, many food bloggers are not seeing their usual traffic because AI is taking over recipe searches. Unfortunately, the AI sometimes gives wrong instructions that could ruin dishes.
  2. AI tools have significantly improved the way we can read and transcribe handwritten texts. This could really help historians and researchers digitize old documents much easier and make them searchable.
  3. Podcast companies are experiencing a new wave of deal-making due to the rise in video podcasts. They are looking to monetize through various types of content including audio and video, hoping to get better returns this time.

Hinternet Essay Prize Contest

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 293 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Literature Technology Culture Health
  1. Carlyn Zwarenstein won the 2025 Hinternet Essay Prize for her thoughts on how technology can help achieve lasting peace. She believes new tech can play a role in creating a more peaceful world.
  2. In her work, she explores the subjects of substance and its effects on pain and pleasure. She writes about complex topics in a way that is engaging and thought-provoking.
  3. Carlyn is a science journalist, showing that her writing not only focuses on literature but also on important and timely subjects in science.

Send me questions for the mail bag!

Volts • 1808 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎙 Podcasts
  1. David Roberts is starting a monthly mailbag episode to answer questions from the audience.
  2. Questions can range from energy to politics, philosophy, movies, food, and more.
  3. Audience can submit questions in the thread or email them for the mailbag episode.

Summer Roundup (2024)

polymathematics • 99 implied HN points • 16 Aug 24
🎙 Podcasts Recommendations Interviews Creative Media Projects
  1. Each month, a roundup is shared featuring the best podcasts, readings, and creative projects discovered recently. It's a great way to find new interests.
  2. The summer roundup focuses on personal updates and some engaging new projects, like a physical internet phone book and a digital sidekick prototype.
  3. The author enjoys curating content and interacting with creative individuals, and there's an invitation for readers to recommend their own favorite finds.

HEY! Watch Disaffected on Twitter Sunday Night!

Disaffected Newsletter • 599 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🎙 Podcasts Critique Media Streaming Entertainment Social media
  1. The show 'Disaffected' will be available on Twitter this Sunday at 9 pm Eastern time. People are encouraged to join and chat during the show.
  2. YouTube and Apple blocked a video from 'Disaffected', claiming it was unfairly flagged despite it being a fair use critique. This situation highlights concerns about censorship.
  3. Viewers are urged to support 'Disaffected' and help make the Twitter show a success after their struggles with other platforms.

BIG NEWS TONIGHT!

Disaffected Newsletter • 719 implied HN points • 20 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Broadcasting Live Events Audience engagement
  1. A live show will be happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern time on Rumble. It's a great chance to watch and see how it goes, even if things go wrong.
  2. Viewers are encouraged to bring popcorn and share their thoughts, even if they're critical. It's meant to be a fun and interactive experience.
  3. The newsletter is reader-supported, and there are options to subscribe for more content. Supporting the work helps keep it going.

Charlotte Stavrou: Influencers and Entrepreneurship

Danielle Newnham • 19 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Influencers Entrepreneurship Marketing Content creation Business
  1. Charlotte Stavrou shares how her childhood shaped her determination and drive as an entrepreneur. She believes that personal experiences can greatly influence one's work ethic.
  2. She discusses her recent dyslexia diagnosis and how it helped her feel more complete, as the education system made her feel inadequate before.
  3. Many founders are starting to become influencers now, partly due to the changes brought by COVID-19. Charlotte's agency provides insights on how influencers can better price their services.

Hard Lessons, Charisma, Dad Saves America

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1155 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Self-help Memoir Entertainment Event promotion
  1. Great athletes usually have lower levels of anxiety and are very stable emotionally. This helps them perform better in sports.
  2. Charisma is about influencing others confidently and making them feel comfortable. It's an important trait for success in the workplace.
  3. People who get offended easily might have narcissistic traits. They may feel entitled and use their outrage to gain social advantages.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and thank YOU

Disaffected Newsletter • 1678 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Communication Culture Community
  1. The author is grateful for the support from readers and subscribers, which helps keep the show going. It's clear that your contributions make a big difference.
  2. There's a strong sense of community among the listeners and supporters, where many feel comfortable discussing the challenges of modern society. It’s nice to have a space to share and be understood.
  3. The author wants everyone to focus on love and connection during the holiday season, no matter the challenges we face. Those relationships are what truly matter in tough times.

Cornel West Blows Jake Tapper's Mind

Useful Idiots • 2397 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🎙 Podcasts Political Commentary Interviews
  1. Dr. Cornel West is running for president with the Green Party to spread his progressive message to a wider audience, including challenging Joe Biden and Donald Trump.
  2. Jake Tapper's mind was blown as he heard Cornel West call out 'milquetoast neoliberals' who aid fascism and explain why the militaristic machine needs to be stopped.
  3. Katie and Aaron highlight Trump's response to his indictment, RFK Jr.'s unusual behavior regarding Israel, and the importance of diverse viewpoints in media.

SAVE THE DATE-you're invited

Disaffected Newsletter • 479 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio Shows Live Events Interviews Community
  1. Join a live show recording on May 9 at 7 pm US Eastern time in Discord for subscribers. It will be a discussion with writer Joseph Sciambra.
  2. The show will explore controversial questions about the relationship between child abuse and homosexuality, including causes and correlations.
  3. Paid subscribers can interact during the event and their questions will be included in the episode when it's released.

Learning Not to Trust the All-In Podcast in Ten Minutes

Passing Time • 3816 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Analysis Data interpretation
  1. A major claim about government spending's role in GDP growth was proven incorrect with simple research. It turns out only about 30% of recent GDP growth was due to government spending, not the 85% stated.
  2. The podcast hosts did not provide critical analysis or challenge each other's claims during the discussion, which raises concerns about their credibility.
  3. It's important to verify information from sources you trust, especially when it comes to economic data, to avoid being misled.

A Series of "Parodies," If That's the Right Word, of Podcasts on the Ringer Podcast Network

Freddie deBoer • 2722 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎙 Podcasts Comedy Media Entertainment Culture Sports
  1. Podcasts can be both entertaining and repetitive. It’s easy to notice when hosts keep saying the same phrases or jokes.
  2. Hosts often joke about the pressure to create content and meet audience expectations, feeling like they're stuck in a loop.
  3. There's a lot of fun in playful banter among podcast hosts, showing that behind-the-scenes discussions can be just as amusing as the main content.

Aww yeah. . .Disaffected Episode 165

Disaffected Newsletter • 599 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Criticism Social Issues Cultural Commentary Current Events Humor
  1. The term 'conspiracy theory' is often used today to silence dissenting opinions and fears about safety in the world. It's a way for people to dismiss uncomfortable ideas.
  2. The tragic story of Dagny 'Nex' Benedict highlights the impact of family trauma and abuse on mental health, rather than solely blaming external factors like societal policies.
  3. Current events include controversies over gender policies in places like gyms, a teacher being fired for a rap video, and student concerns about health issues, showcasing various societal tensions.

Disaffected: Episode 159

Disaffected Newsletter • 819 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Society Politics Discussion
  1. Shadow projection happens when people ignore their own flaws and blame others for them. This can be seen in various social issues where individuals deny their own problems.
  2. The show highlights ways society is changing, like how some commercials claim to promote Christian values while pushing different ideological messages. This shows a disconnect in what is being communicated versus the actual values being represented.
  3. There are concerning trends, like towns monitoring employees' personal social media and schools making decisions about kids' identities without informing parents. This raises questions about privacy and parental rights.

A New Free Press Podcast That Will Change How You Think

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1057 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Culture Discussion Interviews
  1. Coleman Hughes is a thoughtful and clear thinker on tough topics like race and politics. His insights, especially in uncertain times, are really valuable.
  2. His podcast 'Conversations with Coleman' features discussions on a variety of important subjects, starting with his first episode that includes a talk about God and criticism of the Free Press.
  3. New episodes of his podcast are released every Monday, available on popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, making it easy to listen regularly.

Split on Film

Cosmographia • 1597 implied HN points • 17 Sep 23
🎙 Podcasts Film
  1. The post is for paid subscribers only, indicating exclusive content for a specific audience.
  2. The author mentions a podcast called Gone to Timbuktu, highlighting a recommendation for listeners who enjoy their content.
  3. The post features images and links, showing visual elements and ways to engage with the content.

Disaffected: Episode 160, Feb 24, 2024

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Analysis Cultural critique Personal Stories
  1. The media is blaming Libs of TikTok for a tragic event involving a non-binary girl, showing how exploitation occurs in society. It's important to see how such narratives can harm communities.
  2. The episode includes a fun segment revisiting humorous stereotypes about liberal white women and features a look at Eric Adams' approach to kids and safety. This mix of humor and politics makes for an entertaining listen.
  3. There's a noticeable trend in TV shows where characters often depict women as strong figures while men are shown as foolish. The discussion seeks to explain why this character dynamic is so common in media today.

My Stationary Bandit Podcast

Bet On It • 55 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
🎙 Podcasts Politics Economics Public Policy Interviews Ideas Culture
  1. The post highlights pioneering podcast episodes, noting an early show with Dwarkesh and a recent one with Isaac LaGrand.
  2. The latest conversation explores fresh, largely novel questions about state capacity, monoculture, and related topics.
  3. Listeners are invited to enjoy the episode, subscribe, and hope for more engaging conversations in the future.