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Podcasts for a Creative and Curious Summer

Laptop, paperclips, a summery drink and magazines.

There’s something about summer that invites space — for slower mornings, longer thoughts, and the kind of listening we often rush past during the rest of the year. A good podcast can spark curiosity, provide insight into different experiences, and encourage new ways of thinking. So instead of switching off completely this summer, consider tuning in — to ideas, voices, and stories that inspire.

July 3, 2025

The Great Simplification with Nate Hagens

Hosted by Nate Hagens, this podcast dives into the interconnected systems of energy, economy, ecology, and human behavior. With world-class experts, Hagens explores how our biophysical reality shapes societal dynamics—and what it means for our collective future

Upstream 

Hosted by Della Z Duncan and Robert R. Raymond, Upstream challenges traditional economic narratives from a political economy perspective and is a bold mix of conversational interviews and audio-documentaries. It weaves personal stories, expert insights, and immersive sound design to provoke fresh thinking about equitable, sustainable economies.

Song Exploder 

Each episode features an artist (from indie acts to mainstream names) dissecting a single song—breaking down its layers and sharing the creative process. It’s an intimate peek behind the curtain of music-making, hosted by Hrishikesh Hirway

The Rich Roll Podcast 

Wellness advocate and ultra-endurance athlete Rich Roll engages in deep conversations with influential thinkers across fitness, nutrition, spirituality, and entrepreneurship. Honest and intimate, it’s a weekly catalyst for personal growth and authenticity.

Your Undivided Attention

From the Center for Humane Technology, hosts Tristan Harris and Aza Raskin explore the societal and psychological impact of digital tech—especially AI. Through expert interviews and rigorous analysis, they tackle issues of AI governance, attention economy, and how to shape a more humane digital future.

Lex Fridman Podcast

MIT-based AI researcher Lex Fridman hosts long-form, thoughtful dialogues on science, technology, philosophy, history—even love and power. With guests ranging from scientists to artists, the podcast invites curiosity and deep reflection

Broken Record

A creative collaboration hosted by music legend Rick Rubin, bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell, former New York Times editor Bruce Headlam and executive producer Justin Richmond. Each episode features candid conversations with musicians about inspiration, craft, and life—followed by the song itself. It's a rich, heartfelt journey into musical artistry.