BTN News: August might not be the busiest month for new podcast releases, but it’s the perfect time to dive into some exceptional shows that have already made waves. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or escaping the summer heat indoors, catching up on these podcasts can make your downtime more enjoyable. Here are four must-listen podcasts, each offering a unique blend of storytelling, social commentary, and historical insights, that are well worth your time.
A Social Phenomenon from Argentina
Even though the last episode of “La Cruda” was released in April 2023, this Argentine podcast remains one of the most listened to in the country. The brainchild of Migue Granados, “La Cruda” is a collection of deeply personal stories told in the first person, and it continues to captivate audiences. The announcement of a new season, which is already being recorded as a videopodcast, has only fueled the anticipation. The universal appeal of these intimate conversations ensures that Spanish-speaking listeners from anywhere can easily catch up on previous episodes during this summer break. The podcast’s impact in Argentina is so profound that it became the first podcast to be declared of Cultural Interest by the Legislature of the City of Buenos Aires. The archives of “La Cruda” include gripping narratives, such as the story of a child hidden during the Holocaust, the journey of a woman who decides to adopt a 14-year-old girl, and an interview with Ingrid Betancourt, the politician who was held captive by the FARC.
Honoring Victims of Feminicide: The Story of Fátima
“10 Mujeres” is a poignant podcast created by Dudas Media, the production company behind “Se Regalan Dudas.” This series delves into the lives, dreams, and stories of 10 women who were tragically murdered due to feminicide. Each episode is a tribute to their memory, giving them back their names and identities, refusing to let them be reduced to mere statistics or case files. The podcast’s commitment to honoring these women’s lives is what makes it stand out. This year, the Ondas Global Podcast Awards recognized the episode dedicated to Fátima Varinia Quintana Gutiérrez, a young girl from Lerma, Estado de México, as the best episode. Fátima attended school daily and loved playing with her brother. She dreamed of becoming a doctor to take care of her father. Yet, her story is just one of the many powerful narratives within this podcast.
Timely Historical Insights in Bite-Sized Episodes
For those who enjoy historical analysis with contemporary relevance, “Hoy en la Historia” by El Orden Mundial offers daily episodes that are both informative and concise. Each episode, ranging from five to seven minutes, focuses on a significant historical event that occurred on that day. For instance, on August 1st, they revisited the Warsaw Uprising of 1944, the largest civilian uprising against Nazi occupation during World War II. Another recent episode, released on July 22nd, examined the signing of the Bretton Woods Agreements, which continue to shape the foundation of the global economy today. These brief yet insightful episodes are a perfect way to stay informed about history’s influence on current events.
In English: The New Journey of Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah’s journey from his childhood in apartheid-era Johannesburg to becoming a global icon in the United States is nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his sharp wit and keen social commentary, Noah gained massive popularity as the host of “The Daily Show” during Donald Trump’s presidency. His memoir, “Born A Crime,” became a bestseller, further solidifying his place in the cultural zeitgeist. After stepping down from “The Daily Show” in late 2022, Noah embarked on a new adventure, launching his podcast “What Now? with Trevor Noah” last year. In this podcast, he blends humor, social analysis, and political commentary, offering his unique perspective on current issues. Noah has already tackled pressing topics, such as the health crisis surrounding Ozempic, and has hosted a diverse range of guests, including singer and actress Janelle Monáe and philanthropist Bill Gates.
In summary, these four podcasts are more than just audio entertainment—they are powerful platforms for storytelling, reflection, and understanding. Whether you’re interested in personal narratives, historical insights, or social commentary, there’s something here to enrich your August listening experience. So, why not take this summer as an opportunity to dive into these compelling shows?
