Podcasts that can change your perspective

I love podcasts. Because most often than not, we are busy doing mundane chores and not all of us are creative enough to make those interesting alone. So, here comes the hero for rescue. Podcasts.

Also, unlike reading. This doesn't require your active effort. Lazy peeps out there, this is for you.

And who doesn't love a distraction from this socially distanced life? If that distraction can have a positive impact on you, you should definitely give it a try, especially if its something that involves your smartphone and/earphones/headphones/even speakers!

I have a list of 10 podcasts that will definitely alter the way you think about certain things. Or at least add to it.

I will link you guys to the free versions of most of them. I will be targetting specific episodes based upon what I heard. Initially, I had a list of 6-7, I did more research (that means heard more audios) for this blog alone.

Let us begin.

My list will go from 10 to 1. 1 being the best.

10. Anxiety is overwhelming. Here's a mindfulness tool that works

~By NPR Life Kit

Where to find it: Google Podcasts (for free)

You don't have to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder in order to listen to this. The author has some genuine tips that will make you conscious about what you think and how you perceive it. What I term this in my words is 'active thinking'. Check out the whole podcast to understand it better.

9. How to know if you're being manipulated in a relationship

~by 7 good minutes, Daily self-improvement podcasts with Clyde Lee Dennis

This one is for the super lazy ones who don't want to spend their 30-60 mins on podcasts.

This is an insight for finding the toxic signs in a relationship or even friendship. It can also act as a check on oneself.

8. Whats its really like to have autism, Ethan Li si

~via Ted Talks Daily

Where to find it: I heard this one on 'Spotify'. Relax it works without a premium as well. (ameero ka app nahi hai)

You might find it on youtube, or audible or even google podcast if you search 'Ted Talks Daily'.

This is a mind opener for most of us who want to understand the neurobiology of autism and its symptoms which comes around with a lot of stigmas. Many of us assume, based on what we see is that an autistic person has a medical problem but the truth is they are born so. They are just different from us. We can't cure autism and it doesn't need to be cured.

Even though shows like 'Good Doctor', movies like 'My Name is Khan' has definitely touched the topic in a short way, there is still large scope for improvement to be done around the prejudice people hold for those around them.

Different is beautiful. That is the takeaway from this podcast. Do listen to learn more. And #bekind

Tedtalk is an amazing platform where I first learned that listening to people speak about themselves or problems, can be interesting. So, those who don't know what these are, first of all, I don't know how you exist. Second of all, please check it out.

7. Rescued By Ritual

~Via Audible's Sincerely, X (TED)

Where to find this: I heard this on Audible. But, you can find these on Ted website as well. Or you can try the free trial of audible and cancel the membership on time.

Sincerely, X; allows people to be anonymous and talk about situations that they won't speak of otherwise.

One such thought-provoking, escape from abuse story, makes you think about what it takes to be courageous. And how do you even measure courage and kindness?

The Speaker has an amazing voice, that being the bonus.

6. Dr. Burnout

~Via Audible and TED Sincerely, X

Another recommendation from the same platform.

This one talks about what happens when those who care for us the most, burn out.

Its classic example about putting on your mask first, before helping others.

The major takeaway for me was that everyone is capable of making mistakes. Some of these mistakes, become irreversible. We can be only as careful as we can get but there are things that go out of our hands as well.

5. Author Amish on ancient Indian secrets, Mythology and creativity

~via The Ranveer Show

Where to find this: Spotify/Youtube

This guy 'Ranveer' is famous on YouTube as the beer biceps. His content in this podcasts is really good. He brings in insightful people and great authors who actually have something to contribute via the talk sessions.

My favourite Indian author, Amish Tripathi, who is known for his works like The Shiva Trilogy, The Ramchandra Series etc. was there as well.

Most often than not, we go for knowledge as well as guidance to western culture, forgetting our land has heroes and sagas dwelling in background.

Amish has some insights on these. What I liked the most about it was the fact that Ranveer's question was to the point and the author admits about things he doesn't know or has to explore.

4. How to stop negative thoughts

~via Sandeep Maheshwari

Where to find this: Youtube. Actually, it is a video content but I use most of his talks as audio, that helps me grasp the context without being distracted by the visuals.

So, this one isn't actually a podcast but was such a close to the home topic, to be not included.

I have been having lots of issues with people, motivational speakers and authors telling me to 'control thoughts', especially the negative ones. I love Robin Sharma but, this one actually came as a question when I read his books.

Sandeep Maheshwari answers these questions. And, I think the topic is misleading. He talks about how thought and thinking are two different aspects, thus making it easier for one to get comfortable with one's thoughts.

A facebook quote saying 'You don't have to control thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you' fits here well.

In a discussion with a friend, she asked me 'how?'. So, this one's for the people going 'how'. Because I haven't mastered these skills and Sandeep Maheshwari is a great guide to look upto.

3. How to sleep better with bedtime rituals

~via Life kit

Where to find it: Already mentioned. See point number, 10. And stop sleeping. hehe!

So, this one provides real pointers and tackles real problems, like does medication help, what about OTC drugs, essential oils etc? These were real questions sent by listeners. And of course, my own sleep schedule isn't something I'm proud of thats why this was one of my favourites. Because I have heard many talks about what to do and most of it were 'get cosy. Reduce screen time etc', and yea, that is right but some myths need to be debunked among people regarding sleep.

My takeaway: Sleep is a complex process, that can't be solved by overthinking. It is personal to everyone and what's best for me, perhaps won't work for you.

2. Dr. Mike On: Covid 19 latest updates and best practices to stay healthy and safe

~via On Purpose by Jay Shetty

Where to find it: Spotify

Jay Shetty is a popular man for positivity and motivation on Facebook and YouTube.

Dr. Mike is a doctor who looks like a supermodel but does an amazing job practising as a doctor. He has a YouTube channel where he tackles topics like supplements, real-life doctor vs reel, mental health, and even tackles the anti-vaccine.

This podcast was mainly about COVID 19, on how to deal with present scenario and 'what to do' for the normal public. He also addresses the issue caused by the media's hyper behaviour for spreading more panic than information.

We live in a difficult world and given the present circumstances, we need someone who has knowledge about the virus and can guide us with real facts, not fake news.

Head to his channel to check out his videos.

1. Kamasutra, Sex and Romance secrets with Seema Anand

~via TRS

Where to find it: Spotify

I came across Seema Anand in a Ted talk named 'the art of seduction'. It is an eye-opener on topics that are generally considered taboo. Okay, before everyone judges me, yes the audio does include topics on sex but that isn't it alone. So keep your limited thoughts away and give this one a try with an open mind.

You might discover more about pleasure, female body (especially for clueless people out there), and much more than that.

So, that is it for this blog. See you next time.

~Lunatica

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