IR Theory

It’s hard to believe that there was a time before podcasts, but this audio medium’s history is relatively recent. 

1.“Talk Radio”

While radio has been around for a long time, it wasn’t until 1993 that Internet Talk Radio allowed listeners to download episodes. The advent of RSS feeds in 1999 paved the way for the connection between iTunes and RSS in 2003, leading to the birth of the first podcast, “IT Conversations by Doug Kaye,” that same year. Fast forward to today, and podcasts have become a global sensation, with an estimated 504.9 million listeners worldwide by 2024, according to Demand Sage.

2. “The Daily”: Your Go-To Source for Daily Political News

As one of The New York Times’ most popular podcasts, “The Daily” has been delivering 20-minute episodes five days a week since 2017. With over 1,760 episodes released as of February 2023, the podcast offers in-depth coverage of crucial political topics, from President Biden’s potential student debt cancellation to the aftermath of the Turkey earthquake. Perfect for those who want to stay informed without reading the newspaper every day, “The Daily” provides a deeper analysis of one story at a time. You can find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

3. Democracy Now!: Independent News Hour for the Inquisitive

A daily podcast hosted by journalists Amy Goodman and Juan González, Democracy Now! has been providing independent news since its launch in 1996. Covering breaking headlines and hosting insightful interviews, this podcast offers a unique perspective. It doesn’t rely on corporate advertising or government funding, making it a truly independent, audience-supported initiative. With coverage on topics like protests in Iran, climate change’s impact on economic crises, and the GOP’s stance on trans rights, Democracy Now! is a go-to source for those seeking a fresh take on world affairs. You can listen to it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

4. The Real Story: In-Depth Discussions from the BBC World Service

Presented by Carrie Gracie, “The Real Story” is a weekly podcast from the BBC World Service. Each episode delves into one topic for about an hour, covering both UK and global news. With a panel format featuring expert discussions, it’s like an audio version of panel news shows on TV. From analyzing President Erdoğan’s future to exploring the popularity of Andrew Tate and misogyny online, “The Real Story” offers a thought-provoking listening experience. You can find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

5. Global Dispatches: Your Passport to International Affairs

Mark Leon Goldberg, editor of “UN Dispatch,” hosts the longest-running independent international affairs podcast, “Global Dispatches.” This critically acclaimed show covers global news and stories that often escape mainstream attention. From Peru’s political violence to Africa’s debt crises, “Global Dispatches” offers a comprehensive look at crucial international issues. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

6. Pod Save the World: Unraveling Foreign Policy for Everyone

For non-experts curious about foreign policy, “Pod Save the World” is the ideal podcast. Co-hosted by Tommy Vietor and Ben Rhodes, this weekly show breaks down complex international news and developments in an accessible way. Covering topics like the war in Ukraine, China’s Covid protests, and Brazil’s presidential election, the podcast provides valuable insights into global affairs. Part of the Crooked Media podcast family, you can listen to both “Pod Save the World” and “Pod Save America” on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

7. On Shifting Ground: Exploring the Chaos of the Modern World

NPR veteran Ray Suarez hosts “On Shifting Ground,” a podcast produced by the World Affairs Council. Diving into the complexity of the modern world, the podcast brings together expert guests to discuss topics such as the Ukraine war, NRA’s influence in Brazil, and misinformation on TikTok. With episodes ranging from under 20 minutes to an hour, “On Shifting Ground” offers in-depth analysis and thought-provoking discussions. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

8. Code Switch: Unraveling the Intersection of Race and Politics

Started as a blog in 2013 and later transformed into a hit podcast in 2016, NPR’s “Code Switch” explores how race impacts various aspects of society, including politics. Hosted by Gene Demby, Karen Grigsby Bates, B.A. Parker, and Lori Lizarraga, the show covers topics like food history, race and healthcare, and American Indian family separations. With an empathetic and humorous approach, “Code Switch” provides a unique perspective on racial issues. This Apple Podcasts’ “Show of the Year” is available on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

9. In the Thick: Exploring Stories Absent from Mainstream News

Presented by the Futuro Media Group, “In the Thick” is hosted by award-winning journalists Maria Hinojosa and Julio Ricardo Varela. The podcast brings to light stories often overlooked by mainstream news, discussing them through the lens of race, identity, and politics. With over 649 episodes covering topics like the 2022 Twin Parks fire in the Bronx, immigration policies, and mass shootings in California, “In the Thick” offers a diverse and enlightening listening experience. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

10. Reveal: Bold Investigations into Critical Political Issues

As the country’s first weekly investigative public radio show and podcast, “Reveal” from The Center for Investigative Reporting is all about fearless reporting. Hosted by journalist Al Letson, the podcast delves into significant topics such as gun reform, white nationalist mobilization, and Bitcoin’s environmental impact. With 200 in-depth episodes, each running about an hour, “Reveal” is a compelling choice for those seeking well-researched, thought-provoking content. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

11. Citations Needed: Unmasking the Media and its Impact on Politics

Hosted by political commentators and media analysts Nima Shirazi and Adam Johnson, “Citations Needed” is a listener-sponsored podcast focused on dissecting media, power, and PR. The podcast explores how the press influences systems of power and government propaganda. With 247 episodes, including main episodes and shorter “News Briefs,” the podcast covers topics like the East Palestine train derailment, media coverage of trans issues, and government-funded TV episodes on drugs. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

12. Throughline: Discovering the Threads of History

If you love history, NPR’s “Throughline” is the perfect podcast for you. Hosted by Ramtin Arablouei and Rund Abdelfatah, this history podcast examines the connection between the past and present by exploring historical events. From civil rights history to domestic and international policy,

“Throughline” offers engaging episodes that provide a new perspective on contemporary issues. With an award-winning episode on Afghanistan’s culture and history, “Throughline” is available on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

13. Drilled: Investigating Climate Change

Hosted by investigative journalist Amy Westervelt, “Drilled” is a true-crime podcast about climate change. Season one uncovers the origins of climate denial and Big Oil’s cover-up of its research findings. Season two, titled “Hot Water,” follows crab fishermen’s lawsuit against Big Oil. Season seven, a collaboration with Earther, investigates how climate denial impacts education in the United States. This highly-researched and captivating podcast delves into one of humanity’s most critical issues. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

14. A Tradition of Violence: Unmasking Deputy Gangs in LA

Journalist Cerise Castle’s investigation into deputy gangs in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department led to the creation of “A Tradition of Violence.” This podcast series uncovers the history of these gangs and their troubling impact on the community. With episodes covering various gangs in the department, TV shows’ glorification of police, and the growing influence of deputy gang violence, the podcast shines a light on the pressing issue of police brutality. Find it on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

15. Policy Matters: Navigating the Political Landscape

• “Policy Matters” goes beyond the surface of political discourse, delving into the intricacies of decision-making and exploring how policies shape the lives of individuals and communities. 
• With seasoned political analysts and policy experts as hosts, each episode presents a well-rounded analysis of current political matters and proposed reforms. 
• From the complexities of healthcare reform to the implications of environmental regulations, the podcast equips listeners with a nuanced understanding of governance’s impact.
• With its informative discussions and thought-provoking insights, “Policy Matters” is an essential resource for those seeking to navigate the political landscape with clarity and knowledge. 
• Whether you’re a seasoned policy wonk or a curious citizen, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you stay informed and engaged. Tune in on platforms like Spotify, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts to embark on an enlightening journey through the realm of politics and policies.

Conclusion

In the ever-changing landscape of global affairs, political podcasts have emerged as an essential medium for staying informed and engaged. From their humble beginnings as Internet Talk Radio to becoming a global phenomenon, podcasts now offer a diverse array of perspectives and insights on critical political issues.

Whether you seek a daily dose of news with “The Daily” or independent journalism with “Democracy Now!”, there’s a political podcast tailored to your interests and preferences. The thought-provoking discussions on “The Real Story” and “Global Dispatches” shed light on often-overlooked international topics, while “Pod Save the World” simplifies complex foreign policy matters.

For those interested in history’s impact on contemporary issues, “Throughline” provides a fascinating exploration. “Drilled” tackles the pressing concern of climate change, while “A Tradition of Violence” exposes the dark side of policing in LA. With “Policy Matters” rounding out the list, you have a diverse range of options to navigate the political landscape and understand how policies shape our world. No matter your background or interests, political podcasts offer a gateway to informed citizenship and a deeper understanding of the complexities shaping our societies. So, tune in, stay engaged, and be part of the ongoing conversation on global affairs through these informative and thought-provoking podcasts.