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Podcasts have taken the world by storm, with more and more people tuning in every day. According to a report by Edison Research “Seventy-three percent of the U.S. 12+ population (an estimated 209 million people) have listened to online audio in the last month, up from 68% in 2021. This jump was primarily driven by listeners age 35+, as the number of those age 35+ who listen to online audio monthly increased by 13% year over year. Weekly online audio listening also rose to 67% of the U.S. 12+ population, up from 62% in 2021.”
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which podcasts to listen to, especially for book lovers. In this article, we've compiled a list of 7 must-listen bookish podcasts hosted by influential voices in the book world. From personalized reading recommendations to engaging discussions on race and culture, romance, celebrity memoirs etc. these podcasts offer something for every book lover. So sit back, relax, and discover your next favorite podcast.
Hosted by Anne Bogel, "What Should I Read Next?" is the ultimate podcast for book lovers seeking their next great read. With a focus on personalized reading recommendations, Anne invites guests to discuss their favorite books, their reading preferences, and the books they're currently reading. If you're looking for a bookish conversation and some expert recommendations, this podcast is for you.
Recommended Episode: Ep 358: Book-to-film adaptations and seasonal reading vibes or Ep 296: Backlist and brunch
Thank You For Asking produced by Read More Co. is hosted by Amber Burns and focuses on mental health, wellness, and books with a focus on figuring out life and asking the questions no one else wants to ask! Amber interviews many underrepresented voices and gets people from unique perspectives. Amber's warm and conversational style creates a safe space for vulnerable and honest conversations about important topics. It’s like going to a coffee date with your best friend! If you're looking to improve your mental health and expand your knowledge on wellness topics, check out this podcast.
Recommended Episode: Powered by Purpose with Keri Shahidi or Just Enough Hope With Jayne Allen
Hosted by Traci Thomas, "The Stacks Podcast '' recently celebrated its 5 year anniversary! The podcast features interviews with authors, discussions on race and culture, and book recommendations. The Stacks also host a book club that they discuss throughout the month on the podcast. Traci's honest and thoughtful approach to discussing books and social issues makes this podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in diversity and inclusivity in literature.
293 episodes
19 bonus episodes
88 book club picks
219 guests
3 million downloads
536 books read
Recommended Episode: Ep. 252 Begging to Go to the Library with Mina Kimes or Ep. 172 The Art vs. The Artist with Quentin Tarantino
4 - Long Story Short
Long Story Short" is hosted by Skye and Amanda, and is an engaging and relatable girl-talk podcast on books, personal experiences, and friendship. The hosts' chemistry and witty banter make for an entertaining and informative listen, with book discussions ranging from personal development to love and relationships.
Recommended Episode: Long Story Short, New Year, New Habits feat. Arielle Simone or Long Story Short, Rejection is a Part of Life
5 - Bad on Paper
Bad on Paper" is hosted by Olivia Muenter and Becca Freeman, and features discussions on books and banter with inspiring women, with a monthly book club segment. The hosts have an infectious energy and provide an entertaining and thoughtful perspective on books and pop culture.
Recommended Episode: 2023 Spring Bookstagram Preview or A Romcom Roundup! Books, Movies, Tropes, and more!
Hosted by Comedian, head writer of The Problem with Jon Stewart and Filmmaker, Chelsea Devantez, "Celebrity Book Club" recaps and celebrates memoirs by celebrity women. With hilarious and irreverent commentary, Chelsea and her guests offer a fresh take on the memoir genre.
Recommended Episode: Prince Harry’s Memoir The Spare (with Nikki Glaser) or Michelle Obama’s Memoir Becoming (with Sequoia Holmes)
Hosted by Betty (@bettysbooklist), "Open Book Podcast" features interviews with bookish influencers, with discussions on book recommendations and the latest book world drama. Betty's passion for books shines through in her engaging conversations with fellow book lovers, making this podcast a must-listen for anyone looking to stay up-to-date on the latest in the book world.
Recommended Episode: come with me to the WORLD PREMIERE of Daisy Jones and the Six (ft. Ayman) or Ayman: meet cutes, faded celebs and the scariest movie on earth.
Book podcasts have become a vital part of the online book reading community. Not only do they provide readers with book recommendations and insightful discussions, but they also create a sense of community and connection among book lovers. Through these podcasts, listeners are introduced to new authors, genres, and perspectives that they may not have otherwise discovered. As the podcast industry continues to grow, it's exciting to see more and more bookish influencers creating content for readers to enjoy. So, whether you're a bookworm looking for your next great read or someone who simply loves hearing people talk passionately about books, these seven podcasts are definitely worth checking out.
Sources:
https://www.edisonresearch.com/the-infinite-dial-2022/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CqniE3NrA8e/?hl=en
