Knowing of my interest in travel, my friend Glen Rylko suggested Peter Greenberg’s Travel Today podcast. Greenberg is a multiple Emmy-winning investigative reporter, producer and travel news journalist. Travel Today is a travel news show recorded from different locations with various local experts. While he hasn’t done a Travel Today this year, I am enjoying working my way through the 400 episodes.

Another favorite podcast is Jill Urchak’s On a Quest Paranormal. A Chicago media veteran, Urchak sets out to learn more about the unknown, unseen and unproven. On a Quest Paranormal is Urchak chatting with regular folks about close encounters, reiki, animal spirits and more. Like me, Urchak is uncertain but curious, and we are all learning together. I had the pleasure of interviewing Urchak about “On a Quest.”

My friend Tommy Else started Checking In to check in with his friends. On the surface, it is Tommy talking to his friends while social distancing. Despite the self-isolation, this actually brings people closer. With his friends from various areas, lifestyles and professions, it is a look at how people are handling this current situation. Checking In might have limited interest outside of Else’s circle of friends, but I mention it as an example for others. It’s a great idea to close the gaps in a time when we need it most. Tommy said, “I started the Checking In podcast to showcase the unique scenarios and varying obstacles people are facing, all on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re all facing the same problem but in different ways. You may relate to some guests’ trials, and others may share some you hadn’t considered. Either way, it’s hopefully a reminder that none of us are alone in this.”

Ed Gonzales and Heather Owens share their love of Funko Pop figures on the Pop Drunk podcast. It’s a humorous romp through the world of Funko Pop collectibles mixed with a little alcohol sampling. You don’t have to be a collector of Funko Pops to enjoy Pop Drunk, but it might make you become one.

I miss live sports, but Running with the Bulls helps fill the void. Journalists Adam Chalifoux and Reed Denver discuss the Chicago Bulls and the NBA. Even without NBA action, these two are not without entertaining content, as you will see in my interview with Chalifoux.

Other podcasts I enjoy are:

Jonathan Brandmeier’s Showcast
National Radio Hall of Famer and Chicago favorite Jonathan Brandmeier is back and as fun as ever.

Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
Long-time television host O’Brien is searching for deep, meaningful friendships, or at least friends for hanging out.

Work in Progress with Sophia Bush
Actress Bush talks to folks who inspire her to learn how they got where they are and where they are going.

Life Is Short with Justin Long
Actor Long is on a mission to find the meaning of life as he talks with friends.

We Didn’t Start the Podcast
Of course, I must have a Billy Joel-related podcast. Cohosts Meg Donahue and Adam Ragusea give an album-by-album recap of Joel’s life and career.

While for now these podcasts entertain me at home, I really look forward to them helping me pass the time and miles on many future road trips as I #ComeBacktoTravel.

— John Wroblewski, online writer