This is partly inspired by the thread I saw the other day for Youtube channels and partly because I’m about to finish one of the podcasts in my rotation, so I need a new one! Here’s some things I listen to:
**ピートのふしぎなガレージ**
Good things: Interviews on a wide variety of topics from surfing to cactuses or even smoking meat. Professionally produced so high quality audio.
Not so good: Largely scripted, so not a whole lot of spontaneous Japanese. Half the episodes seem no longer available? Interviewees vary in their clarity of speech (but maybe that’s just good practice).
**「話し方」のハナシ**
Good things: Professional announcer, so audio and pronunciation very clear. Variety of topics on themes of speaking clearly and effective communication, some of which are applicable in any language.
Not so good: The host spends a decent chunk of the time promoting her coaching/training service, but that can be skipped.
**姉弟のくだらない話**
Good things: Unscripted, spontaneous, casual Japanese about utterly everyday topics.
Not so good: Very amateur in the beginning, audio is not nearly as good as many professionally produced podcasts.