Whether you’re looking for a daily news show to stay sharp, a good laugh to brighten your afternoon, or a deep dive into history, health, or retirement, podcasts are one of the best audio companions for the 55+ life.
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In this updated guide, we’ve curated 36 top podcast recommendations tailored for older adults. You’ll find shows that are easy to access, genuinely engaging, and worth your time. We’ve also freshened up this list to remove shows that are no longer active and added some newer favorites the senior community is loving right now.
And yes — we included our own podcast. More on that right below.
🎙️ Start Here: Living Your Senior Life Podcast
Before we dive into the full list, we want to introduce you to our own podcast — Living Your Senior Life, co-hosted right here from our little corner of the 55+ world.
Every episode is built around the topics we cover on this blog: active living, home, health, hobbies, travel, pets, and everything that goes into living your best life after 55. Whether you’re newly retired or have been living this chapter for years, there’s something here for you.
Each week, we dig into a new topic — the kind of conversation you’d have with a neighbor over coffee. We wrap every episode the same way: “Take care of yourself and live your best senior life.” Because that’s what it’s all about.
Find Living Your Senior Life on:
- Spotify
- Apple Podcasts
- iHeart Radio
- Amazon Music
- YouTube
- Or browse all episodes by topic right here on LivingYourSeniorLife.com
Looking for practical tips, helpful conversations, and encouragement for life after 55? We’d love for you to listen to the Living Your Senior Life Podcast. Then come back and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover next!
36 Top Podcasts for Seniors
| If You Enjoy… | Start With These Podcasts |
|---|---|
| 🏡 Retirement & Aging | Living Your Senior Life, Retirement Wisdom, Retirement Reimagined, The Retirement Answer Man, Living to 100 Club |
| ❤️ Health & Wellness | Healthy Aging, Science Vs, Living to 100 Club |
| 🌎 Travel | Travel with Rick Steves |
| 📚 History | History Extra, The Memory Palace, You Must Remember This, 50 Things That Made the Modern Economy |
| 🧠 Learning Something New | Stuff You Should Know, Explain Like I’m 5, TED Radio Hour, TED Talks Daily |
| 😂 Humor | Car Talk, Older and Wider, No Such Thing As A Fish, Excuse My Grandma |
| 💰 Money & Economics | Planet Money, Freakonomics Radio, How I Built This |
| 🔬 Science & Technology | Science Friday, The Economist: Babbage, Radiolab |
| 🎭 Arts & Storytelling | Art Curious, The Moth, Relic Radio |
1. 50 Things That Made the Modern Economy
50 Things That Made the Modern Economy is a BBC World Service podcast hosted by economist Tim Harford. Each episode runs about 20 minutes and tells the story behind a single invention or idea that shaped the modern world — from the barcode to the shipping container to the Pill.
If you love history with an economic twist, this is one of the best podcasts for understanding how we got here. Perfect for baby boomers who enjoy thoughtful, bite-sized listening.
2. 70 Over 70
70 Over 70 is a gem for anyone who believes the best stories belong to people who’ve actually lived a full life. Host Max Linsky interviews 70 people over the age of 70 — celebrities like Norman Lear alongside everyday people — about what they’ve learned, what still surprises them, and how they’re spending the time they have left.
It’s wise, warm, and beautifully produced. A wonderful addition to any senior’s podcast playlist.
3. Aging In Full Bloom
Aging in Full Bloom is dedicated to celebrating the richness of the aging experience. Each episode explores topics that matter most to older adults — from health and wellness to personal growth and lifestyle — with expert advice and inspiring stories woven throughout.
If you’re looking for a podcast that genuinely honors this stage of life rather than just tolerating it, this one delivers.
4. Art Curious
Hosted by former curator Jennifer Dasal, Art Curious digs into the fascinating and often surprising stories behind famous artworks, artists, and art movements. From art heists to hidden meanings in masterpieces, each episode makes art history feel like a page-turner.
A wonderful listen for anyone who loves museums, travel, or simply wants to see the world a little differently.
5. BBC Global News
Your daily briefing from the BBC World Service — comprehensive, impartial, and consistently excellent. BBC Global News covers everything from breaking international news and political developments to cultural stories and scientific discoveries.
A great way to stay informed and ready to talk about what’s happening in the world with family and friends.
6. Car Talk (Best of Car Talk)
Few shows have made people laugh as hard as Car Talk, the legendary NPR program starring brothers Tom and Ray Magliozzi — Click and Clack, the Tappet Brothers. The podcast now releases restored classic episodes twice a week, and in 2025, Ray Magliozzi returned to take new listener calls through Car Talk+ on NPR+.
Even if you’re not a car person, the humor, banter, and storytelling will win you over immediately. A timeless classic.
7. Excuse My Grandma
Excuse My Grandma is hosted by grandmother-granddaughter duo Kim and Grandma Gail — and it’s exactly as delightful as it sounds. They tackle dating, relationships, family dynamics, and modern trends together, with plenty of generational sparring and genuine affection throughout.
If you enjoy a warm, funny, cross-generational conversation, this one is impossible not to love.
8. Explain Like I’m 5
Complex topics, explained simply and entertainingly. Explain Like I’m 5 tackles everything from science and technology to history and culture — making each subject genuinely accessible without talking down to you.
A satisfying listen for curious minds who want to keep learning without wading through jargon.
9. Freakonomics Radio
Hosted by journalist Stephen J. Dubner, Freakonomics Radio explores the quirky, counterintuitive ways that economic thinking applies to everyday life. From human behavior to business trends to surprising social science findings, every episode challenges the way you see the world.
A fan favorite for decades — and still one of the sharpest shows out there.
10. Healthy Aging
Healthy Aging delivers practical, expert-backed guidance on living vibrantly as you get older. Topics range from nutrition and exercise to mental health and lifestyle choices, with interviews featuring health professionals and real people who are doing aging well.
A go-to resource if you want actionable advice — not just inspiration.
11. History Extra
Produced by BBC History Magazine, History Extra is one of the richest history podcasts available. Weekly episodes feature acclaimed historians and authors covering everything from ancient civilizations to modern history — with calm, expert storytelling that feels like a great history class.
Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
12. How I Built This
Host Guy Raz sits down with the founders and innovators behind some of the world’s most recognizable companies and brands. Each episode is an honest, often surprising look at the real journey — the failures, the lucky breaks, the moments of doubt — behind building something great.
Endlessly inspiring, whether you’ve run a business or just love a good entrepreneurial story.
13. Living to 100 Club
Dr. Joseph Casciani hosts this inspiring podcast focused on the science and lifestyle habits behind living a long, healthy life. Episodes feature researchers, health professionals, and people who’ve actually reached the century mark — with practical, uplifting insights on diet, exercise, mental wellness, and purpose.
One of the most genuinely life-affirming shows on this list.
14. No Such Thing As A Fish
The researchers behind the BBC’s long-running trivia show QI share the most fascinating and obscure facts they’ve stumbled upon each week. It’s lively, funny, and packed with the kind of information that makes you want to call someone immediately and say, “Did you know…?”
Perfect for trivia lovers, curious minds, and anyone who enjoys being surprised.
15. Older and Wider
British comedy legends Jenny Eclair and Judith Holder host this hilarious, warm, and surprisingly candid podcast about the joys and indignities of getting older. From family dynamics to societal expectations to things nobody warned you about, they tackle it all with wit and wisdom.
A wonderful companion if you appreciate humor that doesn’t shy away from the truth.
16. Planet Money
NPR’s Planet Money makes economics feel like storytelling — and good storytelling at that. Episodes run roughly 15 to 30 minutes and explore how economic forces shape everything from your grocery bill to global trade policy.
One of the most accessible financial podcasts available, no academic background required.
17. Radiolab
Radiolab blends investigative journalism, science, philosophy, and stunning sound design into something unlike anything else in podcasting. Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Lulu Miller, each episode takes on big, complex questions with genuine curiosity and care.
If you want a podcast that makes you feel like the world is larger and more interesting than you realized, this is it.
18. Relic Radio
Step back into the golden age of radio with Relic Radio, which features classic radio dramas, mysteries, comedies, and adventures from the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. Think The Lone Ranger, old detective serials, and the kind of storytelling that made families gather around the radio.
Pure nostalgia — and surprisingly gripping, even today.
19. Retirement Reimagined
Retirement Reimagined explores innovative, modern approaches to retirement living — covering financial security, travel, hobbies, health, and personal growth. Interviews with retirees who are living full, active lives sit alongside expert advice on making the most of this chapter.
A great listen whether you’re years away from retiring or already deep into it.
20. Retirement Wisdom
Host Joe Casey brings a coaching approach to retirement planning, with practical interviews and candid conversations about what this life transition actually looks and feels like. Topics cover financial planning, purpose, identity, relationships, and wellness — the full picture.
One of the most thoughtful retirement podcasts out there.
21. Science Vs
Hosted by Wendy Zukerman, Science Vs takes trending topics, popular myths, and health headlines and puts them up against actual scientific evidence. Each episode is rigorously researched, engagingly written, and often surprising — especially when the science contradicts what “everyone knows.”
Essential listening for anyone who wants to cut through the noise.
22. Senior Moments
Senior Moments shares the real stories and experiences of seniors from all walks of life — health, relationships, retirement, grief, joy, and everything in between. Hosted with warmth and depth, it’s the kind of podcast that reminds you that the stories worth telling don’t stop at 65.
23. Seniors’ Stories
Each episode of Seniors’ Stories features a heartfelt interview with an older adult sharing their personal journey, wisdom, and unique perspective on life. From tales of resilience to moments of unexpected joy, this podcast honors the voices of our elders in the most genuine way.
A meaningful listen for seniors and for the family members who love them.
24. Stuff You Should Know
Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant have been explaining the world — one topic at a time — for well over a decade, and they’re still going strong. From the history of the guillotine to how sleep works to the science of color, each episode is thoroughly researched and genuinely fun to listen to.
One of the most consistently enjoyable podcasts ever made.
25. TED Radio Hour
Hosted by Manoush Zomorodi, TED Radio Hour takes the best ideas from TED Talks and weaves them into longer, more in-depth audio explorations. Topics span science, creativity, human behavior, the future of work, and so much more.
New episodes release regularly and consistently deliver that rare combination of inspiration and practical insight.
26. TED Talks Daily
If you want a fresh idea delivered to your ears every single day, TED Talks Daily delivers. Each episode features a single TED Talk from a thinker, innovator, or storyteller — covering topics that range from the deeply personal to the globally important.
Short enough for a morning walk, substantial enough to think about all day.
27. The Art of Charm
The Art of Charm focuses on the social and interpersonal skills that make life richer — communication, confidence, connection, and charisma. Expert interviews, practical strategies, and honest conversations make this one of the more unique personal development podcasts available.
Particularly valuable if you’re navigating new social landscapes in retirement.
28. The Daily
The New York Times’ flagship podcast, hosted by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise, delivers in-depth reporting on the day’s most important story in about 20 minutes. It’s not just the news — it’s the context, the human story, and the explanation of why it matters.
One of the most-listened-to podcasts in the world for good reason. A reliable daily habit.
29. The Economist: Babbage
Named for Charles Babbage, widely considered the father of computing, Babbage from The Economist covers the science and technology developments shaping our future. Artificial intelligence, space exploration, climate science, biotechnology — all explained with the clarity and depth you’d expect from The Economist.
30. The Memory Palace
Host Nate DiMeo tells historical stories with the care and craft of a poet. Each episode of The Memory Palace is short, beautifully narrated, and focused on a forgotten or overlooked moment in history — the kind of story that stays with you long after the episode ends.
Genuinely one of the most artful podcasts in existence.
31. The Moth
The Moth features true personal stories told live on stage — no scripts, no notes, no safety net. Every episode is raw, surprising, and deeply human. Stories come from people of all ages and backgrounds, covering love, loss, triumph, failure, and everything that makes a life.
If you can only add one storytelling podcast to your list, make it this one.
32. The Retirement Answer Man
Certified financial planner Roger Whitney (with over 25 years of experience) hosts this practical, no-nonsense guide to building a retirement you’ll actually enjoy. Investment strategies, Social Security, healthcare costs, and lifestyle planning — all covered with genuine care for the people listening.
An invaluable resource for anyone in or approaching retirement.
33. Travel with Rick Steves
Rick Steves has been helping people travel smarter, more deeply, and more meaningfully for decades. His weekly podcast features interviews, cultural insights, and practical tips from destinations across the globe — making it a perfect armchair travel companion whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming.
34. Your Grandparents Did What?
This entertaining podcast uncovers the surprising, sometimes unbelievable stories of past generations — the customs, adventures, innovations, and social trends of the people who came before us. Equal parts funny and fascinating, it’s a great conversation starter with family.
35. You Must Remember This
Film historian Karina Longworth’s You Must Remember This dives deep into the forgotten and hidden history of Hollywood’s golden age. Scandalous secrets, legendary stars, cultural shifts — all told with meticulous research and a captivating narrative voice.
A must-listen for anyone who grew up loving classic movies.
36. Science Friday
Science Friday from NPR has been making science accessible and genuinely exciting since 1991. Host Ira Flatow covers the week’s biggest scientific stories with expert guests, listener call-ins, and a spirit of wonder that makes even complicated topics feel approachable.
A beloved institution — and a perfect Friday listen.
How to Listen to Podcasts
Podcasts are easier to access than ever. Here are the most popular ways to find and enjoy your shows.
Smartphones and Tablets
Both iPhones and Android devices come ready to play podcasts right out of the box. Apple Podcasts is built into every iPhone — just search for any show by name and hit subscribe. Android users can find podcasts through Spotify, iHeart Radio, or Pocket Casts, all of which are free to download.
Once you subscribe to a show, new episodes appear automatically in your library. You can download them to listen offline — great for road trips or walks.
Smart Speakers and Voice-Activated Devices
If you have an Amazon Echo (Alexa) or Google Home device, you can listen hands-free. Just say:
- “Alexa, play The Moth podcast”
- “Hey Google, play TED Radio Hour”
This is especially convenient if you like to listen while cooking, doing chores, or relaxing in your favorite chair.
Streaming Services
Spotify has become one of the largest podcast platforms in the world and is completely free (with optional premium upgrades). iHeart Radio is another excellent free option with a huge library. YouTube now hosts many popular podcasts as well, often with video versions available.
All of these platforms work on your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV.
A Few Tips for Getting Started
If podcasts are new to you, here’s the simplest way to begin: pick one show from this list that sounds interesting, search for it on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and listen to one episode. That’s it. You don’t have to subscribe right away or figure out the whole app — just listen to one episode and see if you like it.
Most podcast apps remember where you stopped, so you can always pause and come back. Episodes stay available for days, weeks, or even years after they’re released, so there’s never any pressure to listen live.
Happy listening — and as we always say: take care of yourself and live your best senior life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are podcasts free to listen to?
Yes! The vast majority of podcasts are completely free. You can access them through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, and many other apps at no cost.
What are the best podcast apps for seniors?
Spotify and Apple Podcasts are the most popular and easiest to use. Amazon Echo (Alexa) is a great hands-free option for those who prefer not to use a phone or tablet.
How long are most podcast episodes?
It varies by show. Some episodes are just 10 to 20 minutes long — great for a walk or a coffee break. Others run an hour or more for deeper listening. Many shows on this list offer shorter episodes specifically designed to fit into a busy day.
Can I listen to podcasts without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Most podcast apps let you download episodes ahead of time so you can listen without an internet connection — perfect for travel.
Are there podcasts made specifically for older adults?
Absolutely — and several are on this list! Shows like Living Your Senior Life, Living to 100 Club, Retirement Wisdom, and Senior Moments are created with the 55+ audience in mind.
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I think that was awesome information for someone who is considering podcasting based on recommendations of others and suggestions.
Hi Adrienne,
Thank you! I’m so glad you found the information helpful. There are so many great podcasts out there, and it’s always nice to have a list of recommendations to explore—especially when you’re trying something new. I hope you or someone you know finds a few favorites to enjoy!