As I mentioned before, I appreciate the insight that Google Analytics shares with me about my website. I’ve noticed that virtually nobody has noticed the links on the footer of my site. Not a huge deal. Except that I like to spread the word on my favorite podcasts. For the most part, they aren’t undiscovered gems. It’s not like I’m introducing you to some tiny band on the verge of superstardom, but if you haven’t given any of these shows a listen, then I highly recommend that you check them out!

Let me know if this post leads you to discover new entertainment and please share any of your favorite shows that I’m missing in the comments section…

industry-related
kcrw’s the business – after a brief recap of the week’s news from the trades (with John Horn of the LATimes), the show features several well-produced pieces topical for those in (show)business. For a while I lamented the departure of Claude Brodesser-Akner, but have grown to love Kim Masters and the switch away from the A Tribe Called Quest opening theme (presumably the show’s namesake) Oddly enough, YouTube doesn’t have a version with lyrics. However, if you don’t own “The Low End Theory,” then you are lacking one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.

kcrw’s the treatment – film critic, Elvis Mitchell, converses for 30 minutes with well known filmmakers and filmmakers that you should know if you didn’t before. Someday, I hope to sit down with Elvis and discuss my work, although he generally hosts writer/directors.

kcrw’s martini shot – comedy writer, Rob Long, spends 3 minutes a week discussing the highs and lows of being a writer in Hollywood.

hollywood babble on with ralph garman & kevin smith – it can get a little raunchy, but it is always hilarious when ralph and kevin discuss the week’s entertainment news and spread their hatred for Chelsea Handler.

the q & a with jeff goldsmith – former editor of “Creative Screenwriting Magazine,” Jeff Goldsmith, sits down with the biggest names in screenwriting to discuss their latest film. The show is recorded  following a screening of said film in front of a live audience.

american cinematographer podcast – a series of one on one conversations with renowned cinematographers.

non-industry-related
this american life – Ira Glass and his army of producers continue to amaze after 16 years of creating the most engaging hour of radio ever imagined. Each week, they explore a different topic/theme and what follows will often make you laugh and sometimes cry. It is truly remarkable storytelling and journalism with a rotating cast of regular contributors like David Sedaris, Mike Birbiglia, and Sarah Vowell.

wnyc’s radio lab – I first discovered this when Ira included part of a larger Radio Lab segment on his show and I wanted to hear it unabridged. It is essentially a science infused version of This American Life. After hearing the show’s brilliance, I downloaded every episode and went through a crazy binge, plowing through the entire library on iTunes in a matter of weeks. Jad and Robert create a highly produced aural experience that is peerless and best consumed with high quality headphones.

wtf with marc maron – Stand up comedian, Marc Maron, begins each show with an uncomfortably candid–and hilarious–monologue that will make you question your own sanity. After serving as his silent therapist, I encourage you to stick around for his interviews with big name comedians, actors, and musicians who open up to Marc in ways that should make any publicist cringe.

the moth podcast – A variety of folks share their personal tales in front of a live audience. Some of the artists are famous, while others are unknowns. In all cases, they run the gamut from comical to profoundly tragic.

the sound of young america – Jessie Thorn started this show back when he was a student at UC-Santa Cruz and has been interviewing bands, comedians, and filmmakers ever since. Even if you don’t know the interviewees, it’s worth a listen.

stuff you should know – josh and chuck use humor and research to explain things that you should have a better understanding of, but never bothered learning. These tidbits are often useful at cocktail parties, so be sure to take notes.

smodcast – Kevin Smith (Clerks, Dogma, etc.), whose films had a huge impact on me in high school when I realized that I want to be a filmmaker for the rest of my life, discusses a wide range of topics with his long-time producing partner and friend, Scott Mosier. This can get a little edgy to say the least, so if you aren’t into their movies, then you may not enjoy.

Author

Dustin Pearlman Dustin Pearlman is a plant-based Cinematographer. Aside from film, he's passionate about the environment, music, and cycling. He's a member of IATSE Local 600 and lives in Los Angeles with his mini-schnauzer Iris.