For the love of birds and compelling audio narratives, this week's podcast selection offers something for every listener. From the unexpected passion of a celebrated actor to deep investigative journalism, these shows demonstrate the diverse power of the medium.
Get Birding With Sean Bean
On the surface, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds choosing Ned Stark himself, Sean Bean, to host their latest podcast series might seem an unusual pairing. However, it emerges that the acclaimed actor has been a dedicated birder since his childhood years, frequently fitting birdwatching sessions between his demanding acting commitments.
In the inaugural episode, Bean proves to be a warm and genuine host, engaging in a delightful conversation with fellow ornithology enthusiast Guy Garvey from the band Elbow. They share stories about identifying various species while working overseas, the skill of recognising distinct bird songs, and the profoundly meditative pleasure derived from observing these feathered creatures in their natural habitats.
Availability: Widely accessible on major platforms, with new episodes released every fortnight.
Vine: Six Seconds That Changed the World
This special one-off episode from a podcast dedicated to the short-form video platform Vine explores a fascinating hypothetical scenario. It examines how the podcast's previous discussions might have actually contributed to reviving the now-defunct social media site.
The episode features an interview with Evan Henshaw-Plath, one of Twitter's earliest employees, who is currently developing diVine. This new project is envisioned as an anti-artificial intelligence version of Vine, aiming to address the perceived shortcomings of contemporary social media platforms. Intriguingly, Henshaw-Plath credits this very podcast as a source of inspiration for his innovative venture.
Availability: Widely accessible and available now.
Love + Radio: Blood Memory
Nick van der Kolk's critically acclaimed and unconventional interview show takes a surprising turn into the realm of true crime with this expansive new series. The focus is on Michael Thompson, a former member of the notorious prison gang, the Aryan Brotherhood, who has provided court testimony against the organisation.
The series delves into complex questions of identity and truth, probing whether Thompson is genuinely the person he claims to be. This narrative shift adds a layer of suspense and psychological depth to the podcast's established format.
Availability: Widely accessible on podcast platforms, with weekly episode releases.
Valley of Shadows
Produced by Malcolm Gladwell's Pushkin Industries, this captivating investigative series immediately hooks listeners with a compelling mystery. In June 1998, Jon Aujay, an officer with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, vanished in the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert.
The podcast raises troubling questions about the official response, particularly why Aujay's own employer was remarkably swift in calling off the search operation. This prompts speculation about potential concealed information or motives within the department itself.
Availability: Widely accessible, with new episodes released weekly.
Atonement: The John Paulk Story
This powerful and excellently produced oral history podcast from iHeart and Goldhawk tells the story of John Paulk. Alongside his then-wife Anne, Paulk was a prominent figure in the 1990s American "ex-gay" movement, advocating for Christian conversion therapy and claiming to have been "cured" of his homosexuality.
In a remarkable turnaround, Paulk now stands as one of the movement's most vocal critics. His personal testimony guides this frank and moving exploration of faith, identity, and the profound journey towards reconciliation and self-acceptance.
Availability: Widely accessible on podcast platforms, with episodes released weekly.
