In recent years, the popularity of podcasts has soared. According to statistics compiled by Podcast Insights.com, as of 2019, 51 percent of people in the United States report they have listened to a podcast. Currently, Podcast Insights estimates there are 750,000 podcasts and 30 million episodes available on the internet. Still, some of us remain confused about what podcasts are and why many people prefer listening to podcasts to consuming other types of digital media.
For the uninitiated, podcasts are digital media files, usually audio, but sometimes video, that can be downloaded or streamed on one’s smartphone, iPad or computer. Podcasts tend to feature in-depth reporting on a wide range of topics that many listeners believe they cannot find elsewhere. Another advantage? Podcasts can be heard on demand, in accordance with the listener’s schedule.
Here are some of the top-rated podcasts on topics that may be of interest to individuals in the disabilities community.
Disability Matters
Hosted by Joyce Bender, this podcast focuses primarily on employment issues facing people with disabilities.
The Accessible Stall
Join hosts Kyle Khachadurian and Emily Ladau as they delve into topics of interest to the disabilities community from their diverse perspectives.
Ouch: Disability Talk
Simon Minty, Kate Monaghan and the Ouch team take you to “the place where real disability talk happens” on this BBC podcast.
 Disability Visibility
This podcast, created by disability activist and founder of the Disability Visibility Project, Alice Wong, covers a variety of cultural, political and media-related topics through “a disabled lens.”
Two Disabled Dudes
The hosts of this podcast, Kyle Bryant and Sean Baumstark, have a rare condition called Friedreich’s ataxia that effects their balance and coordination. Despite these challenges, Bryant and Baumstark have become long-distance biking champions. Their podcast is about breaking barriers and fulfilling one’s dreams.
Chronically Chilled
This podcast explores issues related to chronic illness, disabilities and mental health in a discussion-based format.
Assistive Technology Update with Josh Anderson
Get current with the latest assistive technology advances for people with disabilities in this weekly podcast.
Inclusive Education Project Podcast
Special Education and Civil Rights attorneys, Amanda Selogie and Vickie Brett host this weekly podcast about education reform and disability rights.
Disability: A New History
This 10-part series hosted by Peter White and created by the BBC, uncovers the largely forgotten histories of people with disabilities who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Disarming Disability
Hosts Nicole Kelly and Sarah Tuberty speak to experts on a variety of topics of interest to people in the disabilities community. Recent podcasts have focused on being a good advocate, and portrayals of people with disabilities in the media.
Happy listening!
