Podcasts

Ever been curious about the trend of podcasts, but felt unsure about what they are and how they work? If you have a suitable device and an internet connection, then you are ready to go!

Podcasts are something you can listen to, and they are useful for learning about something new, exploring interests or even just for entertainment in general. They’re a great way to keep you actively entertained, get your mind working, and explore new ideas and interests. Best of all, they’re free and you can listen to them at anytime and anywhere.

What is a podcast?

Podcasts are audio programs, like a radio show,  made up of individual episodes, and they can focus on a single subject or explore a wide range of topics. Some podcasts take a deep look into one issue, like an unsolved mystery or a missing person case, while others dive into broader themes such as wellness, offering episodes on everything from nutrition to meditation and mental health.

No matter what you’re interested in, true crime, comedy, personal stories, politics, or news, there’s likely a podcast out there for you. Episodes can be as short as 15 minutes or stretch beyond an hour, and they’re released on different schedules: some come out daily, others weekly or monthly.

What makes podcasts so popular is their flexibility. They’re free, easy to access, and perfect for multitasking, whether you’re commuting, cooking, working in the garden, or just unwinding at home.

What you need to listen to podcasts

Getting started with podcasts is easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

A Device to Listen On

You can use a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. Smartphones are the most popular because you can carry them around and listen anywhere.

Internet Connection

To listen to podcasts, you’ll need internet access – either Wi-Fi or mobile data.

You can also download episodes while you’re connected and listen to them later without the internet, which is handy when travelling or away from Wi-Fi.

A Podcast App or Website

Podcast apps are like libraries filled with free shows. You can also listen through a podcast app’s own website if you prefer using your computer.

Popular podcast listening apps include:

Headphones (Optional)

Headphones make it easier to hear clearly, especially in noisy places or when you’re out and about. They’re also useful at home if others are around and you don’t want to disturb them.

Tip: Downloading vs. streaming

Some apps allow users to download episodes for offline listening, which is useful when internet access is limited. Alternatively, you can stream episodes if you have a reliable internet connection.

How to listen to podcasts on your smartphone

Step one: Download a podcast listening app

If your smartphone doesn’t already have a podcast app, you can start by downloading a podcast app from your device’s app store. Popular podcast apps include Apple Podcasts (for iPhones) and Spotify (works on iPhones and Android phones). If you don’t already have an account, you will need to create one.

Step two: Search for a podcast you want to listen to by either browsing through the categories in the app or use the search function normally located at the bottom of your app’s screen (look for the magnifying glass icon).

Step three: Tap on an episode, press play and away you go!

Tip: Subscribe to podcasts 

When you find a podcast you like, you can ‘subscribe’ or ‘follow’ to automatically receive new episodes as they’re released. Look for the plus (+) symbol, ‘follow’ or ‘subscribe’ button, depending which podcast app you’re using. You can find the new episodes in your Library, at the bottom of the podcast app’s screen.

How to find podcasts to listen to

Once the podcast app is installed, you can search for podcasts on topics you are interested in. You can use the search function (look for the magnifying glass icon) and type in keywords or topics of interest. You can also browse through categories to find shows. Podcast apps often provide personalised recommendations based on listening history, helping you discover new shows that match your interests.

There are many great podcasts in Australia made especially for seniors. They cover topics like health, money, lifestyle, and entertainment. Some are even created by seniors, for seniors. Here are a few you might enjoy:

Seniors Enquiry Line is not involved with the podcasts listed below. Please note that inclusion in this list does not mean that Seniors Enquiry Line endorse these podcasts.

Podcasts made by and for Seniors

  • Life’s Booming – Hosted by James Valentine, this podcast talks about different parts of life as we get older – things like health, travel, relationships, and wellbeing. It’s made by Australian Seniors, for Australian Seniors.

Podcasts about health and wellbeing

  • The Better Ageing Podcast – This show gives tips and advice on dealing with health issues like joint pain, arthritis, and getting around more easily. It also shares helpful information for carers.
  • The Truth About Ageing – This podcast looks at how to take care of yourself, and your loved ones, as you age.

Other interesting podcasts

  • Suddenly Senior – Hosted by Angela Catterns and Ian Rogerson, this fun and light-hearted podcast talks about the ups and downs of getting older, with plenty of laughs along the way.
  • Voices on Ageing – From COTA SA, this podcast shares real stories from older Australians and focuses on staying connected and feeling well.
  • Be Connected Podcast – Dive into the world of technology with host and tech expert, Val Quinn. How does facial recognition work? What is AI and can it make machines more self-aware? How close are we to self-driving cars? Join Val and his guests as they explore these questions and more.
  • Hold the Moment – Dementia Australia’s Hold the Moment podcast shares uplifting stories about people living with dementia and their loved ones.
  • Tune in to Care – Hosted by Wellways Carers Gateway, this podcast features unique stories from carers, gain insights into the wide range of experiences they face, and celebrates the vital role they play in supporting their loved ones and communities.

I hope this has inspired you to check out the wonderful world of podcasts! If you would like any further information, please call the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500.

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