Now more than ever we lead busier lives and making efficient use of time is very much in vogue. In line with this, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of podcasts – the online cousin of traditional radio.

These audio shows are handy to listen to while commuting, exercising or doing work around the yard and can be both educational and entertaining. Podcasts range from current affairs discussions and investigative projects to lifestyle segments and short stories. With such a huge variety, there is something for everyone, and whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned hand, we’ve got plenty of options below.

Comedy – The 2 Johnnies

After a hard day’s work, if you’re looking for a little pick-me-up, then The 2 Johnnies podcast is for you. This dynamic duo from Cahir are well known for their hilarity and their podcast doesn’t disappoint. Along with their producer Maura Fay, a farmer nonetheless, they expertly work in some well-known characters from their sketches, while also discussing more serious topics, striking a good balance between insightful and comedic. This podcast is available on iTunes.

Farming – The Irish Farmers Journal

Mediums of consuming news are now many and varied. Some prefer to read their news in print, others online and many too like to listen. The Irish Farmers Journal has all bases covered and our weekly podcast, where an array of the week’s top stories can be heard, is more popular now than ever. It’s essential listening for anyone who likes to stay informed on agricultural issues and it can be found on the Irish Farmers Journal website and on Spotify.

Empowerment – The Guilty Feminist

Hosted by Deborah Frances-White - a radio presenter, screenwriter and comedian - this podcast discusses topics that all 21st century feminists agree on. Deborah and her guests confess their insecurities and hypocrisies that underlie their feminist principals. The Guilty Feminist is recorded in front of a live audience and this brings a different dimension to the show. This podcast can be listened to on www.guilyfeminist.com.

Crime – West Cork

Endorsed by Louis Theroux on Twitter, the West Cork podcast has gotten people talking ever since it was released earlier this year on Audible. The 13-part series is produced by journalists Jennifer Forde and Sam Bungey. It centres on the mystery surrounding the murder of French woman Sophie Toscan du Plantier in Schull in 1996. A bonus episode was released during the summer, with the producers answering listeners’ questions.

With new information allegedly having been shared with the producers, new episodes of the podcast in the future have been mooted. This podcast can be listened to on Audible.

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