My Top 5 Podcast Suggestions (in 2023)

 I have been a podcast listener for quite few years now and in all these years I have amassed quite a cataglog of podcasts, these span across genres and languages.

In this post I'll suggest my top five recommendations that I really *really* love and the ones I think you should definitely try out. 

1.  No Such Thing As A Fish

Starting the list with my favorite podcast of all time, if you're on the lookout for a podcast that's not just wildly entertaining but also jam-packed with intriguing nuggets of knowledge, then look no further than "No Such Thing As A Fish." I can't recommend it highly enough—like, seriously, it's off the charts in terms of both fun and fascinating facts. If I can recommnd only one podcast to anyone, it'll be No Such Thing As A Fish.

2. 99% Invisible

If you're in the mood for a podcast that's equal parts captivating and mind-bending, "99% Invisible" is a must-listen. Hosted by Roman Mars, it delves into the often-overlooked aspects of our world, revealing fascinating stories and intricacies behind everyday things. It's a great listen for those interested in design and curious about the unnoticed beauty in the world. Check it out to see the world with fresh eyes.

 

3. Twenty Thousand Hertz

For a podcast that's all about the incredible world of sound and audio, "Twenty Thousand Hertz" is a great fit. Hosted by Dallas Taylor, this show delves into the fascinating stories and science behind the sounds we encounter every day. From the iconic 'Netflix THX' sound to the history of ASMR, it's a deep dive into the auditory wonders that shape our world. Whether you're an audio enthusiast or just intrigued by the soundscape around you, "Twenty Thousand Hertz" is a captivating journey into the world of sound, delivered with an engaging and casual style. Give it a listen and prepare to have your ears delighted and your curiosity piqued.

4. The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe

If you're on the hunt for a podcast that seamlessly blends science, skepticism, and humor, "The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe (SGU)" is an excellent choice. Hosted by a group of witty and knowledgeable skeptics, including Dr. Steven Novella, this show is your ticket to navigating the often bewildering world of pseudoscience, debunking myths, and exploring the wonders of scientific discovery. With a casual and approachable tone, they break down complex topics and challenge conventional thinking, all while keeping you entertained. If you're curious about critical thinking, science, and the curious corners of the universe, "SGU" is a fantastic journey into the world of skepticism and reason. Give it a listen and prepare to sharpen your mind while having a great time.

5. The Amelia Project

Of course the list will not be my recommendations if I did not include a audio drama in the mix. "The Amelia Project" is hands down one of my absolute favorite podcasts! It's a brilliantly witty and imaginative series that keeps you hooked from the first episode. If you're into dark humor, clever storytelling, and a dash of mystery, you'll fall head over heels for this show. Seriously, it's a must-listen for anyone who enjoys a captivating and delightfully quirky audio experience. Don't miss it!

Side Note:

If you are wondering where to listen to these or in general any podcasts, I suggest using PocketCasts, the absolutely best podcast client out there available for free on both android and iOS.

A movie I watched 30 times and cried 30 times during. [Amma cheppindi appreciation post]

I can't judge "Amma Cheppindi" as a movie, it isn't, it's a rare piece of brilliance in Telugu Cinema world.Amidst flying cars and over-powerful heroes, this movie is a real treat to watch.

 The movie Amma Cheppindi which means : " Mom said.." literally, would take your heart, squeeze it, twist it, breaks it, fixes it and breaks it some more.

I didn't exaggerate when I titled this post, I for real watched it 30+ times, this movie was just perfect for me when I watched it for the first time in 2010 and it still is today. The movie definitely has it's share of flaws and errors but, for me, every time I watch it, it grows a bit more on me and leaves me teary eyed with a warm feeling filled in my heart. I treasure this movie, I absolutely do.

So, what's so special about this movie you ask? I'm glad you did.

 The movie in general revolves around the life of a mentally differently abled person as a lead. The introduction of a sort-of care-free 20 year old Bose who studies in 3rd standard with kids half his size, his daily routines, his relationship with his mother, everything feels believable.

There are moments where it's depicted as the hero's neighbours and other people, including his dad always had some complaints for his behaviour or they're just rude to him. I like to believe that everyone around him thought that it doesn't matter to him or he is used to that rudeness, but we get to know that he feels real bad about those comments and we see him cry once or twice. This feels relatable to me oddly. I also like to believe, anyone who got judged or commented rudely for their innocent mistakes and for which they feel apologetic too, can relate to this movie somehow.

Also, there are forced upon humour in this movie, which, can harmlessly be ignored when looking at the bigger picture of the movie. Now, the story is set in a way that after a point, you feel kind-of sorry for the hero and at the same time be really mad at other characters for treating him that way.

Of course, Pakistanis tries to bomb Bharat Research Centre in this movie and they do it by using the innocent Bose as a tool. Now, I won't comment on the nations named and all but through this too, you can see Bose being misunderstood and being beaten too once or twice. It makes me connect to the emotion of the film even more.

Now, apart from everything wrong people do with him, we can see Bose being forgiving and being happy for the small things happening to him at present and that according to me, makes him so special and a bigger and better person than the other 'intelligent' people around him.

Finally, when it comes to emotions, the movie hits the right points and on money. I never was able to sit through the movie without crying. I just can't help it, I can control during the normal scenes, like, when Bose fails the exam again, when he gets misunderstood and get beaten at the videogame store, but when the movie reaches the climax, I just can't hold my tears anymore. I won't spoil much here, but, when he says "Nuvvu andarikinna manchi amma vi, I love you amma" , cue the tears, this scene is just so good and emotional , if you won't cry here, you're a monster. Also there's a scene which I just remember so clearly and it is just so pure that it breaks my heart. I don't want to spoil it fully, I will just leave a screenshot here.

That note speaks for itself how nice it is.


Conclusion:
                 
Now, if you speak Telugu you should watch this movie. If you don't speak Telugu and can find subtitles for this movie, you should watch this. There is absolutely no reason why anyone shouldn't watch something as brilliant as this. For me, after some stressful weeks on a Saturday afternoon, when I want sit back and chill with a nice movie, I go to this one, or, If I am feeling distant and low and I need to vent out my pent up emotions, I pick this one. Every time I watch this, it grows more perfect for me.

NOTE: If you speak Telugu and still didn't watch this movie, don't talk to me!



So, that was about it. See you in a future post.

SAYONARA!