7 Thanksgiving Travel Podcasts

Not feeling in the mood for gratitude? Stressed about your uncle bringing up politics? Still not sure exactly which Thanksgiving dish to whip up to wow everyone?

If so you’re certainly not alone. I don’t have 6 hours of driving to do, but for those of you who do (or if you just want some entertainment while you prep) I have put together 7 podcasts to achieve the perfect state of mind for Thanksgiving.

1. Poulty Slam 2011 – This American Life

This American Life is a treasure, an iconic radio program, perfect for bridging the gap between your urban bubble and the bucolic landscapes of the American countryside. It’s not quite Aaron Copland, but Ira Glass’ voice still belongs in the Smithsonian. This particular episode has it all, and I believe it’s some of the best stories ever told about birds, and by way of birds, us. Note – This episode no longer exists on iTunes so you will have to play it from the TAL app or the mobile site.

2. Dialogue and Exchange – TED Radio Hour

If you had to make a bingo board for Thanksgiving dinner, I think the ‘free’ space could be “Someone says ‘We live in a divided country'”. It seems to be all I hear, and division is really the opposite of a family gathering. But did you know that do what different groups value effect how they communicate with one another? This episode includes some tips for getting past the anger to have a real conversations. Even if your Mom told you to try to avoid politics altogether, give this a listen for some tips for when you’re feeling a little feisty off that third glass of wine.

3. The Big Thanksgiving Dinner – Bon Appétit Foodcast

Hungry yet? If you’re like me the first part of this week is a fast. I drink water and coffee and maybe snack on some healthy stuff. Knowing the gluttony in which I’ll soon be partaking, this practice prepares me. However it made listening to this episode all about new and old Thanksgiving dishes rather… difficult.

4. A.J. Jacobs on Thanks a Thousand – EconTalk

AJ Jacobs, an author and podcast darling (he even had his own short-lived show on Gimlet for a time) joins EconTalk for an episode all about his book and showing gratitude. This episode was touching in a way I hadn’t expected, and made me miss the members of my family I’ll never get to properly thank. Typically this show is dry, but like a properly brined bird, this conversation is anything but.

5. Crantastic – Gastropod

I’m a huge Gastropod fan and the two hosts are veteran feature writers and really take the time to craft an incredible show. This episode is about a topic I didn’t think it was possible to care less about, but after listening I felt wonder at how this little fruit ever made it to the table, and a strange tingle pride for the tenacity and spirit of the American settlers.

6. Shmanners – Conversation

I’m no master conversationalist by any means and I still feel awkward butting into a group. But especially at big dinner parties or even family get-togethers, you may find yourself alone, drink in hand, scanning a room full of small groups wondering “What do I do now?” This episode offers some helpful tips, like making eye contact (but not too much), and having conversation starters on deck if things fizzle out. What are podcasts for is not starting conversation anyway, right?

7. Dina – Heavyweight

You’re returning to your family home, and it’s been too long. Your life has changed significantly, and you just know something your parents do will annoy you, or scare off your new partner, or keep your new baby awake all night. If any anxiety is nagging at you over the Holidays, you’re not alone. In this episode the host turns the focus onto himself and overcomes something with his Mother he should have done years ago, now who can’t relate to that?

Hopefully this gets you safely to your destination with a few more ready-made conversation starters. For even more Thanksgiving themed streams, check out another list of Turkey Day episodes on Discover Pods!