I've been listening to podcasts since Apple started rolling them out. I listen mostly while I'm driving, washing dishes, or mowing the lawn. I've always enjoyed listening to podcasts that relate to my work (church leadership, youth ministry, church planting, etc.), but in the last few years, I've stumbled upon a few great podcasts that branch out.
I need to make a quick disclaimer here. I know a lot of my friends are from the church world, and many of you won't be interested in listening to anything with strong language. I totally get that! Some of these podcasts are raw, honest interviews that aren't edited for content.
WTF with Marc Maron Podcast - Marc is a comedian with a self-proclaimed tough upbringing. Now that Marc has been in the comedy industry for a while, he interviews comics, musicians, and other celebrities and is able to cut to some of the reasons that they are the way they are today. I have listened to some outstanding interviews here. If you have a problem with strong language, this one might be a struggle for you. But before you write it off, be open to listening to some of these interviews that give you a peak into the heart and soul of some of the influencers of our culture. After all, most of these people are living in the same harsh world that we are.
The Liturgists Podcast - This one is gonna get me in trouble with some of you. If you aren't a fan of listening to alternate belief systems, then go ahead and keep on scrolling. But if you're like me and have had doubted and struggled with your faith at times, this podcast might be a refreshing look. Michael Gungor and Science Mike McHargue host this one and it is a flat-out brilliant mash-up of an artsy worship leader with a neurological scientist who both came from a Christian background. This has been my absolute favorite podcast to listen to last year. But continue with caution: you won't be able to listen without having to re-hash some long-held beliefs.
Fresh Life Church - Levi Lusko is the Lead Pastor of Fresh Life Church in Montana and he and his family have walked a tough journey through the loss of a child. God has given him a huge platform, so the world watched as he and his wife were so gracious and faithful throughout the whole time. Levi is a passionate man of God who is contagious as he preaches! Love listening to Levi!