The 20 Best Podcasts for High School Students

Now that school is back in session, I thought we’d talk about some podcasts for high school students that would make an impact.

Podcasts for high school students are your secret weapon.

But they’re underutilized.

These audio gems are like having a cool, smart friend in your pocket, ready to drop knowledge bombs whenever you want.

I used podcasts throughout college as sadly, I’m a little older than I’d like to admit. So if it works for college kids, podcasts for high school students are a natural piece of the learning puzzle.

In this guide, we’re diving into the world of podcasts tailored for teens.

Whether you’re cramming for a history test, trying to figure out college apps, or just want to impress your friends with random facts, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll explore everything from brain-boosting academic shows to hilarious storytelling podcasts that’ll have you laughing out loud (maybe not during class).

So, grab your headphones and get ready to discover 20 awesome podcasts that’ll make you smarter, more inspired, and maybe even help you survive those long bus rides. That cell phone is essential for a reason.

Academic Podcasts: Boost Your Knowledge

Want to ace your classes without falling asleep in a pile of textbooks? These academic podcasts are here to save the day (and, ideally, your GPA).

History and Social Studies

Stuff You Missed in History Class

Ever wonder why your history teacher never told you about that time a molasses flood destroyed Boston? Or how a pigeon saved hundreds of soldiers in World War I? “Stuff You Missed in History Class” is your ticket to the weird, wild, and downright fascinating stories that didn’t make it into your textbooks.

Why it’s awesome for high schoolers:

• Makes history come alive with engaging storytelling
• Covers topics from ancient civilizations to modern events
• Perfect for supplementing your history classes or acing those pesky pop quizzes

Pro tip: Listen to episodes related to your current history unit for some extra credit-worthy insights!

Language and Writing

Grammar Girl

Comma splices got you down? Semicolons making you sweat? Fear not, because Grammar Girl is here to rescue you from the perils of punctuation and the woes of word choice.

Why it’s great for students:

• Short, bite-sized episodes perfect for quick learning
• Covers common grammar mistakes and how to fix them
• Helps improve your writing skills for essays, college apps, and beyond

Fun fact: The host, Mignon Fogarty, has been dubbed the “verbal vaccine against infectious grammar gaffes.” Talk about a superhero for students!

Science and Technology

The Naked Scientist

Don’t worry, no one’s actually naked (I hope… although it’s not like I’m in the studio). This podcast strips down complex scientific concepts to their bare essentials, making them easy to understand and, dare we say, fun!

Why science nerds (and regular students) will love it:

• Covers a wide range of scientific topics, from biology to physics
• Answers listener questions about the world around us
• Includes interviews with real scientists doing cutting-edge research

What I really like about this podcast is all of the sister podcasts it has. The Naked Scientists is a great starting podcast for high school students, but you can drill down further with Naked Genetics, Naked Neuroscience, Naked Oceans, and Naked Astronomy.

They’re a bit more advanced but still worth getting into.

60 Seconds Science Series by Scientific American

Got a minute? That’s all you need to get your daily dose of scientific discovery with “60 Seconds Science.” It’s like a shot of espresso for your brain, but without the jitters.

Scientific American broke this podcast out into several different niches, so I’m only sharing out the 60 second Earth podcast, but there are others about the mind (my favorite), health, space and tech.

Perfect for:

• Quick knowledge boosts between classes
• Staying up-to-date on the latest scientific breakthroughs
• Impressing your science teacher with random facts

Linguistics and Communication

A Way with Words

This has to be an all-time favorite for me. Any writer, really.

Words are weird, language is wild, and this podcast celebrates all of it. “A Way with Words” dives into the quirks of the English language and explores how we communicate.

Why it’s word-nerd heaven:

• Explores the origins of common phrases and slang
• Discusses regional dialects and language evolution
• Helps expand your vocabulary (hello, SAT prep!). No joke not this one. Your vocabulary will absolutely get larger.

Bonus: Impress your English teacher by casually dropping terms like “eggcorn” or “mondegreen” in class discussions.

Fun Fact: This is recorded at Studio West in San Diego where I used to play a little bit of music. I might have an extra soft spot for this reason, but the podcast is phenomenal listening.

Inspirational and Motivational Podcasts

Need a pep talk to get through that mountain of homework? These podcasts will light a fire under you and keep you motivated to crush your goals.

Personal Growth and Development

TED Talks Daily

It’s like having the world’s most inspiring people giving you a personal pep talk every day.

From technology to psychology, TED Talks Daily serves up ideas that’ll expand your mind and maybe even change your life.

We’ve talked about TED Talks before and for good reason.

Why it’s a must-listen:

• Features diverse speakers and topics
• Introduces you to new ideas and perspectives
• Can spark interests you never knew you had

Pro tip: Use these talks as inspiration for school projects or college application essays!

Tiny Leaps, Big Changes

High school can feel overwhelming, but this podcast reminds you that small steps can lead to major transformations. It’s all about building good habits and making positive changes in your life.

This show hasn’t produced new episodes in 2024, but the massive archive of evergreen content means that it’s still one of the best podcasts for high school students looking to balance out their lives.

Perfect for:

• Developing better study habits
• Managing stress and anxiety
• Setting and achieving personal goals

College Preparation

How to College: First Gen

Calling all first-generation college students (or anyone freaking out about college apps)! This podcast is your personal guide to navigating the wild world of higher education.

Why it’s a game-changer:

• Offers practical advice on the college application process
• Shares real stories from first-gen students
• Provides tips on adjusting to college life

Even if you’re not first-gen, this podcast offers valuable insights into the college experience that can help any high school student prepare for the next big step.

This is another show that hasn’t produced new content lately, but again, the lessons are pretty timeless. If anything they’re more poignant now as tuition continues to explode.

Financial Literacy

How to Money

Let’s face it: adulting is expensive. “How to Money” is here to teach you the financial skills you need to survive and thrive after high school.

It’s really a major oversight of how little financial literacy we teach high schoolers. Our society is doing a real disservice to future generations in that regard.

What you’ll learn:

• Basics of budgeting and saving
• How to avoid common money mistakes
• Tips for paying for college and managing student loans

Check out these other podcasts about financial literacy for more education.

Start listening now, and by graduation, you’ll be the financially savvy friend everyone turns to for advice.

Creative and Entertainment Podcasts

All work and no play makes for a dull high school experience. These podcasts bring the fun while still keeping your brain engaged.

Music and Creativity

Song Exploder

Ever wonder how your favorite songs are made? “Song Exploder” takes you behind the scenes with artists who break down their tracks piece by piece.

Why music lovers will geek out:

• Gain insights into the creative process
• Learn about music production techniques
• Discover new artists and genres

Bonus: This podcast can inspire your own creative projects, whether you’re in band, choir, or just love making music in your bedroom.

Storytelling and Humor

The Mortified Podcast

Prepare to cringe, laugh, and maybe cry a little as adults share their most embarrassing teenage stories. It’s like a support group for surviving adolescence, and trust us, you’re not alone in your awkwardness.

Why it’s hilariously relatable:

• Reminds you that everyone goes through awkward phases
• Offers a good laugh and a sense of connection
• Might inspire you to keep a journal (future you will thank present you)

Psychology and Human Behavior

Hidden Brain

Oof. I do love some of NPR’s Hidden Brain. We’ve talked about it before on the site.

Why do we do the things we do? “Hidden Brain” uses science and storytelling to explore the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior. It’s like having a cool psychologist friend who’s always ready to blow your mind.

What you’ll discover:

• Insights into decision-making and social dynamics
• Explanations for common human quirks and behaviors
• Ideas that can help you understand yourself and others better

Pro tip: This podcast is great for psychology class discussions and can give you a leg up if you’re considering studying behavioral sciences in college.

Current Events with a Twist

Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!

Stay informed about current events while laughing your socks off with this weekly news quiz show. It’s like getting your news from your funniest friend, who’s also surprisingly well-informed.

Why it’s awesome:

• Makes keeping up with the news actually fun
• Helps you remember key events through humor
• Improves your general knowledge (hello, trivia night champion!)

Bonus: Listening to this show will make you sound super smart and witty at the dinner table. Your parents will be impressed, trust us.

General Interest and Fun Podcasts

These podcasts are like the variety pack of the audio world – a little bit of everything to keep your curious mind satisfied.

Everyday Knowledge

Stuff You Should Know

Ever wondered how silly putty works or why we have leap years? “Stuff You Should Know” tackles all those random questions you’ve always had but were too afraid to ask.

Why it’s addictively informative:

• Covers a wide range of topics from science to pop culture
• Explains complex ideas in easy-to-understand ways
• Gives you endless fun facts to share with friends

Warning: May cause sudden outbursts of “Did you know…?” in social situations.

Science and Philosophy

Radiolab

Radiolab is where science meets storytelling, and the result is pure audio gold. It explores big questions about life, the universe, and everything in between.

What makes it mind-blowing:

• Combines scientific inquiry with philosophical ponderings
• Uses innovative sound design to enhance storytelling
• Tackles complex topics in engaging and accessible ways

Perfect for: Those late-night existential crises or when you need a break from studying but still want to feel productive.

Practical Life Skills

How to Do Everything

High school teaches you a lot, but there’s still so much to learn about adulting. “How to Do Everything” is like a crash course in life skills you didn’t even know you needed.

What you might learn:

• How to tie a bow tie (prom skills, anyone?)
• The best way to apologize
• How to survive a bear attack (hopefully you’ll never need this one)

It’s random, it’s useful, and it’s the perfect way to procrastinate while still learning something valuable.

Design and Architecture

99% Invisible

The world around us is full of design choices we rarely notice. “99% Invisible” brings these hidden aspects of design and architecture to light in fascinating ways.

Why it’s eye-opening:

• Makes you notice details in your everyday environment
• Explores the history and reasoning behind common designs
• Can inspire creativity in your own projects and problem-solving

Bonus: This podcast can give you a unique perspective for art classes or inspire ideas for school projects across various subjects. Drafting perhaps…

Student-Centric Podcasts

Sometimes you just need to hear from people who really get what you’re going through. These podcasts are made by and for high school students, tackling the real issues you face every day.

High School Life and Experiences

High School Is Hard

Spoiler alert: high school can be tough. This podcast gets it and isn’t afraid to talk about the challenges, from academic pressure to social drama.

Now it hasn’t been producing new shows since 2021. But let’s be real. High school still sucks in many of the same ways.

Why it’s relatable AF:

• Discusses common high school struggles
• Offers advice from students who’ve been there
• Makes you feel less alone in your high school journey

High School Famous

Ever wonder what it’s like to go viral or become the talk of the school? “High School Famous” explores the ups and downs of teen life in the spotlight.

What you’ll love:

• Real stories from teens who’ve experienced unexpected fame
• Discussions on social media, identity, and high school culture
• Insights into handling attention (good and bad) in the digital age

School Playbook

Think of this as your insider’s guide to navigating high school. A group of seniors shares their experiences, offering advice on everything from choosing classes to dealing with cliques.

Granted, it’s a little pandemic heavy due to when it was produced, but it remains one of the best podcasts for high school students. For high school students by high school students.

Why it’s a must-listen:

• Get tips from students who’ve recently been through it all
• Learn strategies for balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life
• Hear diverse perspectives on common high school experiences

Environmental Science

PlanetGeo Podcast

For the eco-warriors and future environmental scientists out there, PlanetGeo dives into geology and environmental topics that affect our world.

What makes it rock (pun intended):

• Explores current environmental issues and solutions
• Explains geological concepts in easy-to-understand ways
• Can inspire ideas for science fair projects or environmental clubs

Pro tip: This podcast is great for supplementing your earth science or environmental studies classes.

How to Incorporate Podcasts into Your High School Routine

Now that you’ve got a killer playlist of podcasts, let’s talk about how to actually fit them into your busy high school life without sacrificing sleep (because we know you need it).

I mean, I need it now.

Time Management Tips

1. Commute Companion: Turn travel time into learning time by listening during your bus or car rides to school.
2. Workout Wisdom: Pair your exercise routine with a podcast for a double boost of endorphins and knowledge.
3. Chore Champion: Make cleaning your room or doing the dishes less boring by tuning into an interesting episode.
4. Study Break Booster: Use short podcast episodes as rewards between study sessions to stay motivated.
5. Bedtime Brain Food: Wind down with a calming podcast instead of scrolling through social media before bed.

Note-Taking Strategies

1. Voice Memos: Record quick thoughts or reactions to podcast content for later reflection.
2. Mind Mapping: Create visual diagrams connecting ideas from different podcast episodes.
3. Bullet Journaling: Keep a dedicated section in your journal for podcast insights and how they relate to your studies or personal growth.
4. Digital Notes: Use apps like Evernote or OneNote to organize thoughts and quotes from different podcasts by subject or theme.
5. Collaborative Docs: Start a shared document with friends to compile notes and discuss podcast content together.

Discussing Podcast Content with Peers

1. Start a Podcast Club: Like a book club, but for podcasts. Meet regularly to discuss episodes and share insights.
2. Class Presentations: Use podcast content to supplement your presentations or essays with unique perspectives.
3. Social Media Sharing: Post interesting facts or quotes from podcasts on your social media to spark discussions with friends.
4. Lunch Table Topics: Bring up intriguing podcast topics during lunch to engage in meaningful conversations with classmates.
5. Teacher Connections: Share relevant podcast episodes with teachers to potentially earn extra credit or enhance class discussions.

Parents’ Guide: Supporting Your High Schooler’s Podcast Journey

Hey parents, listen up. Here’s how you can support and encourage your teen’s podcast listening habits:

Encouraging Healthy Listening Habits

1. Set a good example by listening to podcasts yourself and sharing interesting tidbits.
2. Help your teen create a balanced podcast playlist that includes both educational and entertaining content.
3. Encourage listening during productive times, like while doing chores or exercising, rather than late at night.
4. Invest in good quality headphones to make listening more enjoyable and protect your teen’s hearing.
5. Respect your teen’s autonomy in choosing podcasts, but be open to discussions about content.

Using Podcasts for High School Students for Family Discussions

1. Listen to episodes together during family dinners or car rides to spark conversations.
2. Create a family podcast playlist where everyone contributes interesting episodes they’ve discovered.
3. Challenge each family member to share one new fact they learned from a podcast each week.
4. Use podcast topics as prompts for family debates or discussions to enhance critical thinking skills.
5. Encourage your teen to teach you something new they’ve learned from a podcast.

Podcast Safety and Content Considerations

1. Discuss the importance of fact-checking and critical thinking when consuming podcast content.
2. Help your teen identify reputable sources and understand potential biases in podcasts.
3. Be aware of age-appropriate content and discuss any mature themes that may come up in certain podcasts.
4. Encourage your teen to balance podcast listening with other forms of learning and entertainment.
5. Talk about the potential impact of excessive audio consumption on mental health and the importance of quiet reflection time.

The Future of Educational Podcasting

As podcasts continue to grow in popularity, the landscape of educational audio content is evolving. Here’s what’s on the horizon for teen-focused podcasts:

Emerging Trends in Teen-Focused Podcasts

1. Interactive Podcasts: Shows that incorporate listener participation through polls, quizzes, or live Q&A sessions.
2. Virtual Reality Integration: Podcasts that offer immersive experiences to complement audio content.
3. Personalized Learning: AI-driven podcast recommendations based on a student’s interests and academic needs.
4. Micro-Learning Podcasts: Ultra-short episodes designed for quick knowledge boosts between classes or activities.
5. Student-Created Content: Platforms that empower high school students to create and share their own podcast episodes.

How Podcasts Complement Traditional Learning

1. Flipped Classroom Model: Teachers assign podcast episodes as homework to prepare for in-class discussions.
2. Cross-Curricular Integration: Podcasts that blend multiple subjects, encouraging holistic learning.
3. Skill-Based Podcasts: Shows focused on developing specific skills like critical thinking, public speaking, or coding.
4. Test Prep Revolution: Interactive podcast series designed to help students prepare for standardized tests.
5. Global Classroom Connections: Podcasts facilitating collaborations between students from different countries and cultures.

Conclusion

Alright, high schoolers and parents, let’s wrap this up with a bow (but not the kind you learned to tie in “How to Do Everything”).

Podcasts for high school students are more than just a way to pass the time or procrastinate on that English essay (though they’re great for that too).

They’re a secret weapon in your educational arsenal, offering a world of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment right at your fingertips.

From diving into the depths of history with “Stuff You Missed in History Class” to getting the lowdown on college life with “How to College: First Gen,” these audio gems can supplement your studies, spark new interests, and maybe even help you figure out what you want to do with your life (no pressure, though).

Remember, the key to making podcasts work for you is finding the right balance.

Mix up your listening with academic shows, fun storytelling podcasts, and everything in between.

Use the time management tips we shared to seamlessly integrate podcast listening into your daily routine without sacrificing your precious sleep or social life.

Parents, your support can make a huge difference. By encouraging healthy listening habits and using podcasts as a springboard for family discussions, you’re not just supporting your teen’s education – you’re opening up new avenues for connection and communication.

So, whether you’re a student looking to boost your grades, a parent wanting to support your teen’s learning, or just someone who loves soaking up random facts to dominate at trivia night, there’s a podcast out there for you. Dive in, explore, and let your curiosity run wild.

Your ears (and your brain) will thank you.

Your next favorite show is just a play button away.

FAQs

1. Q: Are podcasts really an effective learning tool for high school students?
   
   A: Absolutely! Podcasts can enhance learning by providing diverse perspectives, in-depth exploration of topics, and engaging storytelling. They’re particularly effective for auditory learners and can complement traditional studying methods.
   
2. Q: How can I find time to listen to podcasts with my already busy schedule?
   A: Try incorporating podcasts into your existing routine. Listen during your commute, while exercising, or doing chores. Even 15-20 minutes a day can have a noticeable impact.
   
3. Q: Can listening to podcasts help with SAT or ACT preparation?
   A: While not a replacement for dedicated test prep, podcasts can indirectly help by improving your vocabulary, general knowledge, and critical thinking skills. Some podcasts even focus specifically on test preparation strategies.
   
4. Q: Are there any risks associated with teens listening to podcasts? A:
   As with any media, it’s important to be aware of the content. Encourage critical thinking and fact-checking. Some podcasts may contain mature themes, so parental guidance is advised for younger teens.
   
5. Q: How can parents ensure their teens are balancing podcast listening with other activities?
   A: Set guidelines together with your teen just as you might with screen time. Encourage a mix of educational and entertainment podcasts, and make sure podcast listening doesn’t interfere with sleep, homework, or social activities.

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Hey podcast enthusiasts! We’d love to hear about your favorite shows and how you’ve incorporated them into your high school life. Drop a comment below with your top podcast recommendation and how it’s helped you.

Have this article inspired you to start your podcast journey? Share it with your friends and let’s get a podcast revolution going in your school! Don’t forget to tag us and use #HighSchoolPodcastLife.

Question for engagement: If you could create your own podcast for high school students, what would it be about and why?