A lot of people our age don’t usually reach for a podcast when choosing a type of media to entertain themselves. Usually it’s a movie or book or some social media platform. But Serial is a whole new genre of podcast. It’s truly one of the most interesting types of media I’ve indulged in despite Season 3 (the season I listened to the most) being about the most basic crime of Cleveland, Ohio. Sarah Koenig and her co-host Emmanuel Dzotsi talk about the impacts of racial, wealth, and social class disparity on common crime. They not only talk in-depth about the cases and what led to them but also huge pieces of background information including recorded conversation with many of the perpetrators, lawyers, cops, and witnesses. It’s so cool to see how things connect in a sphere of society where truth and opinions is the center of decision making.
If you’re a lover of true crime I recommend taking a listen to Serial – it’s definitely different but it provides such a great inside look on the criminal justice system and how it still varies in numerous places in the U.S today.
I’m going to be brutally honest for a second. Every time I meet a teenager, they always nag about something ugly about themselves or a beauty feature they just don’t like, and that’s okay. As a teenager I’m sure many of us have struggled with something while being in middle school or high school (or if you are currently in middle school or high school). Puberty hits, our minds change, how we see the world changes. Sometimes when these changes happen there might just be no one to look up too. Sure, your mom might give you some hygiene tips or whatnot but there can be more than just the matter of looking up to parents. A Spotify podcast called Confessions with Anastazia published by Anastazia Dupee, targets teenagers and their struggles as they enter adulthood. Anastazia acts like the “big sister you never had”, helping you learn from your mistakes and understand the world around you. Tips she gives include; mistakes she’s done in the past, how to improve your mental and physical health, healthy habits, and so much more. Her podcast is one of the best ways to lighten up your day and get the jumpstart motivation you might be looking for. You can even look at her YouTube channel (search up Anastazia or confessions by Anastazia) and you can find many motivating and realistic lifestyle videos. The next time you think your stomach is too big from bloating, or you’re just in a bad place. Many lifestyle creators and podcasts like what Anastazia makes might just be the right medicine.
Episode 308 B-Exploring the Legacy of Syosset High School’s WKWZ Radio Station
In this episode of Turn the Page, Jessica hosts an enlightening and heartfelt conversation with Jason Feldman, a sophomore at Syosset High School, who is working on a documentary titled “The Subterranean Penthouse”. As a recent member of the WKWZ radio station, I was genuinely excited to hear Jason’s reflections and insights into the deep-rooted history of WKWZ and how it has impacted the lives of Syosset students over the past fifty years. For anyone passionate about the power of local radio or interested in the hidden histories of their communities, this episode is a must-listen. Jason’s enthusiasm for his project shines through as he shares his goal of preserving and celebrating the station’s legacy. His story begins with his father, an alum of WKWZ, who inspired him to get involved and to start digging into the archives. Jason has combed through logs, yearbooks, and interviewed over thirty past members of the station, all with the hope of piecing together the evolution of WKWZ and how it helped shape its members. Jason’s respect for both the station and its legacy is evident as he discusses mentors like Jack DeMacy and Roy Dippel, whose unwavering support and genuine passion for student success left a lasting impact on the station’s alumni, including big names like Judd Apatow. Hearing Jason describe their impact is inspiring, and it paints WKWZ as more than just a high school radio station; it’s a launchpad for young talent and a training ground for students interested in the media industry. One of the most surprising and memorable anecdotes shared was about the Girls Varsity Basketball team challenging the WKWZ sports staff to a game following a disagreement. Jason’s choice to save the outcome for the documentary builds anticipation and keeps listeners intrigued, capturing the lively, collaborative spirit that seems to characterize WKWZ’s history. It’s clear Jason’s passion for storytelling and documentary filmmaking reflects the values of the station itself. It’s a joy to listen as he shares the meaning behind The Subterranean Penthouse, a title inspired by the station’s nickname back in the 1970s. His dedication to uncovering these stories is inspiring, especially to new members like myself. I am thrilled to be joining a station with such a vibrant legacy and excited to see how Jason’s documentary will reveal the full story of this unique institution. This episode of Turn the Page is a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling and legacy, particularly at the high school level. For current students and alumni alike, Jason’s work promises to offer a unique look at what makes WKWZ not just a station, but a part of Syosset High School’s heart and history.
The Voice Notes with Jordan Theresa Podcast is hosted by Youtube Essayist Jordan Theresa. On youtube she makes videos doing deep dives and analysis on internet trends, media, reality television, politics, and so much more. On her podcast it has a more casual atmosphere even though she talks about similar topics. She shares personal anecdotes about her life and brings on special guests that work in the same field, it creates a candid vibe and allows the listener to relate and connect with the host and guest speakers. Overall this podcast is a great listen if you want to wind down and listen to internet analysis with a lot of personality.
SKOR North – Flagrant Howls is a Sports Lifestyle Podcast that mainly covers the NBA team Minnesota Timberwolves. Phil and Judd are the two main hosts of the podcast and they regularly have guests and other SKOR North members appear on the show. Their unbiased perspectives on sports is refreshing for listeners and their enthusiasm for the Timberwolves is always nice to hear. They are very knowledgeable about basketball and as men who have watched Minnesota sports and just sports in general for decades, they give a lot of good insight to listeners about the NBA. They are very consistent as well; during sports seasons they post more often but even during the summer when sports are somewhat dead, they persistently talk about whatever they can in the sports world. At times, they even play original sports guessing games and trivia during the podcast. I definitely recommend SKOR North – Flagrant Howls to any basketball enthusiast who likes to hear fresh opinions about the NBA.
