Listening to stories is my favorite way to learn. I pay attention to the ones that linger in my imagination. Which, if you’ve been around me recently, you know it is true about the new Serial podcast Nice White Parents. I could not stop listening. Frequently, I found myself wishing the road ahead extended just a bit further. In my book, that’s the mark of truly good podcast. Is it not?

I admit to having much to learn about how white privilege shows up in public places. As I listened, I found myself recalling stories from my childhood with ‘nice white parents’ who also happened to be public school teachers. Although my context was west coast and suburban, the NYC storylines rang true to me. Gut wrenchingly so. I pray this podcast takes you places you need to go. I know it did for me.

Angela Duckworth’s experience as a public school educator caused her to be curious about achievement. Unable to sort out why some students excelled, and not others, she left education for a career in researching the psychology behind what leads to success. When the audio version of her book Grit: the Power of Passion and Perseverance popped up in my library que, I was delighted to incorporate it into my morning commute. Because it’s a bit of a long haul read, I recommend enjoying it in short spurts.

Podcasts you and I might enjoy if we shared a commute ~ the Sick & hAlarious podcast with Layne (a pastor friend of mine) and Abigail (especially episodes 1 and 6), Unlocking Us by Brene Brown (especially this episode with Austin Channing Brown), and It Was Said, a new podcast by Jon Meacham.

Whether your commute takes you to a home office or involves a trek across town, undoubtedly you’re listening to something interesting. So, please share what you’re curious about and where you’re finding resources. And, if it involves the telling of a good story, I’m especially hoping to hear from you!

May your listening enliven the road ahead,

Shari