Mystery, humor, learning—for whole-family entertainment, podcasts to the rescue!

Eleanor Amplified, WHYY in Philadelphia

An old-timey radio show with a high-tech twist, this adventure series follows famous radio reporter Eleanor Amplified as she gets the scoop—and the crafty villains. With incredible sound effects and a lively voice cast, this series for tweens will keep the energy up as the days go by.

Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest, Pinna

Some kids may be open to a little bit of spookiness in their stories, and if so, this eerie series from award-winning author Adam Gibwitz is for them. With real kids' commentary throughout and tips for what to do if it gets too scary or icky, these darker but still kid-friendly fairy tales are sure to enthrall. (Part of the Pinna network; qualifies for the 60-day free trial.)

The Punies, Granity Studios

If you need a podcast for your young sports lover, then this scripted series about a ragtag group of kid athletes is for you. With characters developed by Kobe Bryant and a focus on the importance of teamwork, sporting conduct, and believing in yourself, this positive series is a winner for families. And the musical interludes are so catchy, you might find yourself humming them all day.

Science Friday

Regularly one of the most popular science podcasts out there, "SciFri" (as it's known to its fans) has been informing and entertaining listeners for more than 20 years. For curious science lovers who want to learn about the latest discoveries, Ira Flatow's weekly discussions with experts and listeners are a must-listen.

 Dear Hank and John

Real brothers and vloggers John Green (a young adult novelist) and Hank Green (a YouTuber) co-host a lighthearted advice podcast where they answer questions on everything from random thoughts to deep, emotional topics. The advice they give out is mostly good and always entertaining. Their easy camaraderie and self-deprecating charm make you feel like you're in on their inside jokes (of which there are many). 

Best for: Teens 

GenX 

Offers a number of podcasts ranging from Becoming Mother Nature, Young Ben Franklin, Six Minutes, Pants on Fire, Alien Adventures, The unexplained disappearance of Mars Patel, The Mayan Crystal, Tumble Science Podcasts for Kids, Earth Rangers and the Weirdness 

The Moth

Has been sharing incredible true stories from everyday people. Subscribe to the podcast to hear the best tales based around specific themes like "Stuck!" or to hear full recordings from their live shows around the US.

 TED Talks

The TED Talks podcasts have become perennials. You can count on there being a topic for everyone, like, “Four billion years of evolution in six minutes” and “How I’m bringing queer pride to my rural village.”

The Daily Podcasts from NewYork Times

Overheard from National Geographic

Socially Awkward: 

This excellent biweekly podcast features middle schoolers talking about a popular middle-grade or YA book as well as sharing their favorite book recommendations. Public radio figure Kitty Felde runs the discussion, and each episode includes a passage of that week's book read by a celebrity guest. A funny podcast for teens full of interviews that will surely remind them that they are not the only ones walking around this planet feeling like a complete freak. Best for: Tweens and teens

Book Clubs: 

Where middle schoolers talk about books.

Spooked revels in firsthand accounts of the paranormal, told by souls who have experienced them — and still “can’t believe” what’s happened. Addictively creepy, especially for teens.

Spotify: For stories

Curated from Commons sense podcasts