Revolution GrayThere’s a good chance you know someone hooked on a podcast. An estimated 42 million Americans over the age of 12 listen to podcasts on a monthly basis. Still wondering how to listen? Here’s a quick guide on how to get started.
What is a Podcast?
Podcasts were developed in 2004 by Adam Curry, a former MTV video jockey, and Dave Winer, a software developer. Essentially, podcasts are digital files that can be downloaded over the Internet to your mobile device or computer. Typically, podcasts consist of original audio recordings, but they can also feature broadcasts of lectures, performances, or television or radio programs. The best part about podcasts is that you can listen to them on demand and at your own pace. Additionally, subscribing to a podcast ensures you receive the latest episodes directly on your mobile device or computer, making it easy to stay up-to-date with your favorite shows.
You can listen to podcasts everywhere, whether stuck in traffic or walking around town.
You can enjoy listening to podcasts while working out, cleaning the house, or doing your grocery shopping without the hassle of carrying a book or constantly folding and unfolding a newspaper or magazine.
How to Find and Subscribe to a Podcast on iOS (Apple desktops and laptops) on Your PC
To find and subscribe to a podcast on iOS (Apple desktops and laptops), follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Open the Apple Podcasts app, which can be found in the Applications folder or in the Dock.
- Once the app is launched, you will see various tabs at the bottom of the screen, including “Listen Now,” “Library,” and “Browse.”
- Tap on the “Browse” tab to explore different categories and genres of podcasts. If you have a specific podcast in mind, you can use the search bar at the top of the screen to directly search for it.
- Enter the podcast’s name or keywords related to it, and the app will display matching results. Upon finding the desired podcast, tap on its name to access its information page. On this page, you will see details about the podcast, such as the description, host, and available episodes.
- To subscribe to the podcast, tap on the “Subscribe” button, typically located near the top of the page.
Once subscribed, new episodes of the podcast will automatically be downloaded to your device when they become available. Additionally, you can access all of your subscribed podcasts by tapping on the “Library” tab at the bottom of the app.
From there, you can manage your subscriptions, download episodes for offline listening, and create playlists. With these easy steps, you can quickly find and subscribe to your favorite podcasts on iOS devices, allowing you to stay updated and enjoy a wide range of audio content.
How to Find and Subscribe to a Podcast on iOS on Your Mobile Device (iPhone and iPad)
To find and subscribe to a podcast on your mobile device (iPhone and iPad) using iOS, follow these simple instructions:
- Start by locating and launching the Apple Podcasts app on your device’s home screen. Once the app is open, you’ll find five tabs at the bottom of the screen: “Listen Now,” “Library,” “Browse,” “Search,” and “My Podcasts.”
- Tap the “Browse” tab to explore different podcast categories and genres. If you have a particular podcast in mind, you can use the search bar at the top of the screen. Simply enter the podcast’s name or relevant keywords, and the app will display matching results.
- Once you’ve found the desired podcast, tap on its name to access its information page. You’ll find details about the podcast on this page, including the description, host, and available episodes.
- To subscribe, tap the purple “Subscribe” button, which is typically located beneath the podcast’s cover art or description. Upon subscribing, new episodes will be automatically downloaded to your device as they become available.
To access your subscribed podcasts, tap on the “Library” tab at the bottom of the screen. Here, you can manage your subscriptions, download episodes for offline listening, and create playlists. By following these straightforward steps, you can easily find and subscribe to podcasts on your iOS mobile device, allowing you to enjoy a variety of engaging audio content whenever and wherever you want.
How to Find and Subscribe to a Podcast on Android
To find and subscribe to a podcast on Android devices, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Open the Google Podcasts app, which can be found in your app drawer or home screen if you have added a shortcut. Once the app is open, you will see different tabs at the bottom of the screen, such as “For You,” “Discover,” “Activity,” and “Library.”
- Tap the “Discover” tab to explore various podcast categories and recommendations. You can use the search icon at the top of the screen if you already know the podcast name you want to find.
- Enter the podcast’s name or related keywords, and the app will display matching results. Once you find the podcast you’re interested in, tap on its name to access its information page. On this page, you will see details about the podcast, including the description, host, and available episodes.
- To subscribe, tap on the “Subscribe” button, which is usually located near the top of the page. Once subscribed, new episodes will automatically be downloaded to your device when they become available.
- You can access your subscribed podcasts by tapping on the “Library” tab at the bottom of the screen. From there, you can manage your subscriptions, download episodes for offline listening, and create playlists.
Following these simple steps, you can easily find and subscribe to podcasts on your IOS or Android device, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of audio content at your convenience.
Ready to start listening?
Here is a list of podcasts for women 50+ that may be of interest to you:
Mixing Up Midlife is a weekly show for midlifers and empty nesters who want to shake up their middle years one challenge at a time. Each week Terri, a self-described “Boomer by Birth, Millennial at Heart,” and cohost Melissa will be trying out things they’ve always dreamt of doing or have been curious about trying but haven’t had the freedom (or courage) to do. We love listening to Terri and Melissa!
Teatime Midlife Edition
Teatime Midlife Edition is a community for women in the midst of their lives who seek friendship, support, and self-awareness. It aims to bridge the gap during this transformative time and provides a platform for members to share advice, ideas for fun challenges, and engaging conversations over a cup of tea. Join Regina for a delightful and flavorful experience.
Women in the Middle: Loving Life After 50 is hosted by Master Certified Life Coach Suzy Rosenstein. This podcast is for women over 50 who don’t want to let life pass them by. You’ll learn from someone who knows what it’s like to be stuck in a midlife funk and want to change but don’t know what to do.
Hot Flashes and Cool Topics Looking for a fun podcast that covers everything about women in midlife and beyond? Look no further! Tune in to hear insightful interviews with prime time women like Patricia Heaton, Joan Lunden, and Carla Hall on topics ranging from health and wellness to relationships and careers.
Zestful Aging Nicole Christina, a highly experienced psychotherapist of 30 years, hosts a podcast where she interviews prominent guests about their methods of creating a legacy, which is an essential aspect of healthy aging. The show focuses on the idea of contributing to the greater good, which is a recurring theme throughout.
Fit Strong Women Over is a podcast where the cohosts, Jill McCauslin and Chris Brown, interview experts and share their insights about losing weight, keeping it off, working out and becoming fit and strong. Hear from others who are making it work and become inspired and motivated.
The Midlife Momma Podcast is hosted by Pamela Henkelman, a mother of five. She offers guidance to Christian mothers on how to navigate their evolving roles with their adult children, with the ultimate goal of fostering stronger relationships.
A few of my favorite podcasts (some descriptions from iTunes):
The Hidden Brain podcast is a captivating and thought-provoking audio series that delves into the intricacies of human behavior and the unconscious patterns that shape our lives. Hosted by Shankar Vedantam, an esteemed journalist and social science correspondent, the podcast offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden forces that drive our thoughts, actions, and interactions.
Each episode of Hidden Brain takes listeners on a captivating journey, combining scientific research, real-life stories, and insightful interviews with experts in various fields. From psychology and sociology to economics and neuroscience, the podcast draws upon a diverse range of disciplines to unravel the mysteries of the human mind.
One of the key strengths of Hidden Brain lies in its ability to present complex ideas in an accessible and engaging manner. Vedantam’s storytelling prowess and genuine curiosity create an immersive listening experience that captivates both casual listeners and avid enthusiasts of the human sciences.
The podcast explores a wide range of topics, from the influence of social norms and biases to the impact of technology on our behaviors. It sheds light on how our brains perceive and interpret information, why we make certain decisions, and how our environment shapes our thoughts and emotions. With a blend of scientific rigor and relatable narratives, Hidden Brain invites listeners to reflect on their lives and consider the hidden forces that influence their behavior.
Beyond its entertaining and informative qualities, Hidden Brain also serves as a valuable tool for personal growth and understanding. By uncovering the subconscious factors that drive our actions, the podcast empowers listeners to gain a deeper awareness of themselves and others, fostering empathy and facilitating personal development.
Whether you’re seeking to unravel the mysteries of human behavior or simply looking for an intellectually stimulating and entertaining podcast, Hidden Brain is a must-listen. It enlightens, challenges, and inspires, providing valuable insights into the hidden workings of the human mind.
The Moth podcast is a captivating and heartwarming series that celebrates the power of storytelling. Rooted in the age-old tradition of oral storytelling, The Moth brings together a diverse array of people from all walks of life to share their personal narratives on stage.
Each episode of The Moth features a collection of true, first-person stories that are raw, authentic, and deeply moving. From ordinary individuals to renowned artists, the podcast showcases a wide range of voices and experiences, creating a tapestry of human emotions and perspectives.
What sets The Moth apart is its emphasis on the power of storytelling as a means of connection and understanding. The stories shared on the podcast are unscripted and told live, allowing the audience to experience each storyteller’s genuine vulnerability and authenticity. Whether humorous, poignant, or inspiring, these narratives often touch upon universal themes, illuminating the shared human experience.
The podcast covers a vast array of topics, from personal triumphs and failures to tales of love, loss, and resilience. The storytellers transport listeners into their world, capturing their attention with vivid descriptions and captivating narratives. Through their stories, The Moth explores the depths of the human spirit, shedding light on the complexities of our lives and reminding us of our common humanity.
The Moth is not just a podcast; it’s a community. It encourages listeners to engage with the stories, fostering empathy and connection among its audience. The podcast’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity ensures that a multitude of voices and experiences are represented, further amplifying the power of storytelling as a unifying force.
Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt tale to lift your spirits, seek inspiration, or simply appreciate the art of storytelling, The Moth is a podcast that will captivate and resonate with you. It offers a powerful reminder of the shared human experiences that bind us together and reaffirms the transformative power of stories.
There are 24 hours in a day. Seems pretty straightforward. But what do you really know about the hours between 11 pm – 6 am? From graveyard shift jobs to “secret identities,” who we are and what we do at night is often less fully perceived by others, whether by choice or circumstance. Peering into the dusty corners of the night, Nocturne explores these often overlooked and undisclosed slices of life. Under the cover of darkness, our thoughts and feelings can take on strange new shapes, sometimes barely recognizable as our own. And the world’s pulse seems to alter, too, creating a curtain of privacy around our behaviors and even our appearance. Do I truly know you if I only know the daytime you? Find out in Nocturne.
Serial is a podcast from the creators of This American Life, hosted by Sarah Koenig. Serial unfolds one story—a true story—throughout a whole season. The show follows the plot and characters through many surprising twists and turns wherever they lead. Sarah won’t know what happens at the end of the story until she gets there, not long before you get there with her. She’ll bring you the latest chapter each week, so it’s important to listen in, starting with Episode 1. New episodes are released on Thursday mornings.
(my favorite) Snap Judgment (storytelling with a BEAT) mixes real stories with killer beats to produce cinematic, dramatic, kick-ass radio. Snap’s raw, musical brand of storytelling dares listeners to see the world through the eyes of another. WNYC Studios is the producer of leading podcasts, including Radiolab, Freakonomics Radio, Note To Self, Here’s The Thing With Alec Baldwin, and more.
Do you listen to a podcast you enjoy? Please share by leaving a comment!
