Do you ever wonder why so many people seem to have earphones or headphones on all of the time? Is it just to tune out the world? More likely, it’s to tune in to an engaging and enlightening broadcast on an interesting topic. If that’s not a familiar concept to you, then you need an immediate introduction to the world of podcasts.

For those who are not familiar (and don’t be embarrassed), podcasts are the 21st-century version of old fashioned radio shows, only these allow you access to literally an infinite number of topics and broadcasts using your computer, smartphone or tablet. And even if you don’t have wireless earpods or don’t use a smartphone, you can still access the amazing array of offerings through your computer and an inexpensive portable speaker, or even the speaker in your computer. Last year, The New York Times offered a primer into the world of podcasts, and the website The Podcast Host offers introductory lessons on how to listen to a podcast easily on any device. So turn up the sound and find out more here.

And what should you listen to? The options are literally endless. If you’re a public radio junkie, you may want to start with the offerings from NPR, where many of the first and finest podcasts got their start. Or, The New York Times recently published a list of podcasts to distract you from the current events of today. If you’re looking for more “age-appropriate” content, take a look at the list recommended by Independent Age of the top 8 podcasts for older people. Finally, if, like many, you can’t drag yourself away from the latest coronavirus news, then feed your frenzy by listening to Vulture’s top 7 coronavirus podcasts.

And in an effort to create community and share the wisdom, we invite you to submit to agebuzz your list of favorite podcasts. Send those on to [email protected] and we’ll be sure to share the list in an upcoming newsletter as well as on our Facebook page. Looking forward to sharing your favorites!