Bite-Size Podcast For Your Curiosity Break

Bite-size podcasts are slowly becoming the rage now. Traditionally, it was believed that podcast listeners largely prefer longer programs since it allows them the freedom to listen without having to fumble around with their device. However, thanks to technological innovations such as smart speakers, podcast creators are increasingly experimenting with shorter formats and more frequent episodes. In fact, Ashley Lusk, Director of Marketing and Audience Development of WNYC Studios, recently said in an interview that he expects to witness a boom in the 'atomization of audio content’.

In this context, Scientific American’s podcast '60-second science' has been a pioneer of sorts. As the title suggests, it takes just a minute of your day but the time spent is as enriching as it is quick. The podcast covers an extensive range of science-related topics and none of it is pedantic or dull. A smorgasbord of tidbits, you could click on one to understand the effects of technology on our brains or you could listen to the podcast on how scenic sights lead to higher happiness. There are many 'outlier' podcasts too that tackle topics rarely taken up elsewhere. Consider, for instance, the one on how background music may stifle creativity or how you can measure the strength of a person's gaze.

I found it to be a rabbit hole of myriad interests, and it works like a nice pick-me-up for me whenever I need to take a break from work.