Russell Kane Bonds With Hamster: Discover This Week’s Top Podcasts!

Featured Show of the Week

Mischievous Creatures with Russell Kane

“Is this animal a hidden gem or just a tiny terror?” This is the question that comedian Russell Kane poses in a new podcast series that branches out from his popular Evil Genius show. He begins with the seemingly innocuous hamster. To decipher if they’re charming critters or just mini egomaniacs, he’s joined by comedian Laura Smyth and hamster specialist zoologist Jules Howard. Hollie Richardson
Available broadly, with new episodes every week

The Hidden Depths of Music

In its second season, this captivating independent podcast features musician Anthony T Jackson as he explores the intricate musical and cultural roots of popular songs from the 1970s and 1980s. The kickoff episode delves into Donna Summer’s revolutionary disco track “I Feel Love,” produced by Giorgio Moroder and described by Brian Eno as “the sound of the future.” HJD
Available broadly, with new episodes every week

Do Not Disturb

Sherise Blackman, who spent two decades as a flight attendant, turned to writing during the pandemic – a decision that proved fortuitous. Her first audio drama features warmth and bold themes as it follows three Black British women, voiced by Judi Love, Saffron Coomber, and Blackman herself, as they deal with romantic dilemmas, health issues, and explorations of queer relationships. Hannah J Davies
Available on Audible, all episodes available now

Jacqueline Wilson: Our Childhood Architect

“Bog off!” is the familiar catchphrase that greets listeners in this four-part podcast by Cosmopolitan, celebrating the influential author Jacqueline Wilson. Known for her pivotal role in the lives of many millennials, Wilson herself appears on the show, adding a nostalgic flavor as she and host Dani Harmer, famous for playing Tracy Beaker, discuss the impact of Beaker’s character on television. Hollie Richardson
Available broadly, with new episodes every week

Modern Insights from Ancient Times

Classics scholar Mary Beard and The Guardian’s chief culture writer Charlotte Higgins engage in discussions that draw parallels between figures from antiquity and contemporary political leaders. Their opening debate revolves around comparing a Roman emperor to Donald Trump. This series caters primarily to enthusiasts of classical history, but promises to cover more universally appealing topics in future episodes. Alexi Duggins
Available broadly, with new episodes every week