PodControl: Spotify Acquires Gimlet Media, Robocalls on ‘Reply All,’ & ‘Case Closed’ is True Crime Satisfaction

If you’re like me, then you’re a fan of podcasts. However, since everyone and their grandma has one, what should you be checking out? Well, here’s PodControl a list of my recommendations for what to listen to whether you’re driving, working out, or just need something to satisfy your ears.

The biggest news in the podcasting world right now is that Spotify is in talks to buy Gimlet Media, and is speculated to have paid more than $200 million for the acquisition. Gimlet began back in 2014 with the extremely successful “startup” podcast, which found its host, Alex Blumberg, discussing (what else then) starting a company. From there, Gimlet has grown into one of the most profitable and prestigious podcast companies in the marketplace. With sponsors, like Gatorade, and shows, like Homecoming, being acquired by Amazon for television with stars, like Julia Roberts, in the lead role. Keep an eye out for this possible new venture because if this acquisition actually happens, it could change the podcast world forever.

Not surprising, the Gimlet podcast show called Reply All makes my list this week with “Episode #135 Robocalls: Bang Bang.” The episode takes a deep dive into why Robocalls have become so popular in the past decade. Also, some scary awareness is brought to light as we find out that our phones are always tracking our location. The episode ends with a hilarious segment, dragging one of the show’s co-hosts along as they look at the apps they have on their phone. Give it a listen.

If you haven’t listened to this podcast yet, you must give it a listen now. “Episode #27: Kiss, Kiss, Riddle Riddle” is definitely one of the best and something that I recommended to all of my comedy-loving friends who are actually fans now. The riddles for this one are not too hard to parse out, however, it’s the hilarious improv between Adal Rifai, Erin Keif and JPC that make this one of the funniest podcasts ever. In fact, I laughed so hard while driving that I had to pull over to the side of the road in order to recover and refocus. Things discussed: talking through a kiss, off-off Broadway shows, the Mario Bros vs. Wario Bros, and “Wowser” (a non-evil bowser). Trust me, if you need a good laugh, then tune in.

The episode titled “Written in Blood” of Today, Explained is unlike other episodes from this podcast show. Rather than focusing on the news of the day, this episode explores bloodstain pattern analysis. ProPublica’s Pamela Colloff takes you through her journey of understanding and learning the method, and why it’s more speculative than science.

Finally, Case Closed is a true crime podcast that will not leave you without answers. Rather than focus on unsolved cases, Case Closed presents cases that aren’t cold. It’s a great podcast that won’t leave you unsatisfied, questioning and wanting more.

As always… give a new podcast a try!

—Colin Gray