April 2008

I am in love with public radio, it’s true. I like to know what’s going on. I like to hear thoughtful commentary and analysis. I’m not quite a political junkie, but I have my days. I have been known to argue with the radio on certain topics. (Who are you talking to, Mom? What is “ridiculous“?) And because it’s good to know a few things about a few things I am going to share with you some of my favorite public radio shows.

Lest you think it’s all serious on the public radio circuit, I will direct you first to WNYC’s Soundcheck. The host, John Schaefer, who knows all things music (really, he covers every kind of music out there), did a show on those secret song-loves you may have, that are actually kind of embarrassing. John’s embarrassing song? Ice Ice Baby by Vanilla Ice. Now admit it — you groove a little bit if ever you hear that music play, don’t you? You can listen to the show here.

And now, without further ado, I present to you the following:

Morning Edition & All Things Considered — If you’re at all familiar with NPR, you know at least one of these shows, they bookend the day with basic and informative news coverage and good stories.

The Diane Rehm Show — While she covers all kinds of topics during the week, on Friday Diane gathers two panels of news experts for each hour of her show, one covering national news, and the other covering international news. Really fascinating.

Market Place — Accessible business news. Believe me, I know. I majored in English.

The Writer’s Almanac — Garrison Keillor, of the wonderful radio voice, gives some historical background on the day’s date, and then reads a poem. Good stuff.

On the Media — A program that a news junkie would love. News and criticism about the media and how it reports the news.

This American Life — What has become the quintessential radio documentary series. More often than not, it will keep you in your car long after you’ve pulled into the driveway.

Radio Lab — They only do something like 5 programs a year, but they are really cool and available for pod cast. Seriously. Definitely worth a listen.

Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me! — Once you’ve informed yourself, then yes, this is the NPR news quiz. I’m not joking. It’s really funny. And I have been known to clean my bathroom while shouting out the answers to the “listener limerick challenge” and the like. I know. Go and say it. I am kind of a nerd. But an informed kind of nerd.

Of course, this is not even a smidgen of what is offered by public radio. There is a veritable feast of information available to you on your radio or through the web. If you haven’t already, you should really check it out.

fab image via fader

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