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COVID Boosters Are Coming: Here’s What to Know

COVID Boosters Are Coming: Here’s What to Know

Introduction

The amount of people in the United States who have received two doses of the COVID vaccine is high, although it could always be higher. However, while many people assumed that they would be done with the vaccine regiment after the initial two shots, it now seems like more shots are coming for those who wish to combat the virus.

The idea of boosters seemed foreign even just a few months ago but now it sounds like an absolute certainty. If you are one of the millions who took both shots, you will need one more to keep your immune system strong.

COVID booster doses will be available in the United States in September, according to public health experts such as the CDC and Health and Human Services Department. According to a proposal revealed by government agencies, all people in the United States who received a two-dose vaccine will be eligible for an extra Pfizer or Moderna vaccine eight months after their second dosage.

What are COVID boosters? Why are they needed? Most importantly, do you need them?

Why are COVID Boosters Needed?

Essentially, a booster shot is yet another way to keep your strength against the virus strong. When you receive a booster shot, you are allowing your immune system to stay strong as the virus remains around.

The Delta variant has made the coronavirus so much stronger than people predicted. If it weren’t for Delta, the virus would have likely been nearly gone by now. But with the Delta Variant, as well as too many people unvaccinated, the virus is still evident in most of the country. That is why a booster is so smart. It will keep healthy people healthy and will stop the spread of the virus as more and more get vaccinated.

Is There a Difference Between a Booster and Third Shot?

A booster injection is similar to a third vaccination dose in many respects. Not all extra vaccination doses, however, are boosters.

The FDA authorized a third dosage of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for immunocompromised persons in August 2021. This includes persons living with HIV and those undergoing immune-suppressing cancer therapy. The extra dose isn’t a booster for them. Instead, it’s included in their first round of vaccinations.

However, for those who are not immunocompromised, a booster shot really is a lot like just getting a third vaccine injection. However, that doesn’t limit its importance at all.

Who Needs Boosters?

For people who received the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccinations, a booster is suggested at least six months after the second dosage for those who are:

  • 18 to 64 years old and at high risk for severe illness from COVID. That means people with lung disease, cancer, or diabetes are prime candidates for the booster.
  • Anyone 65 or olders
  • Citizens living or working in high-exposure settings. This is people who are healthcare workers, teachers, grocery workers, prisoners, or those who live or work in long-term care facilities.

Like the vaccine shots that came before, the boosters will be covered by insurance or a free program via the government.

 

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Business Career & Education Media Tech & Media

Worker Shortage May Keep a Lid on Job Growth

Worker Shortage May Keep a Lid on Job Growth

Introduction

While some people feel that the coronavirus pandemic is coming to an end and the worst is behind us, there are many signs that the pandemic is surging still. Ultimately, this is causing serious havoc for businesses and people all over the world. Things related to coronavirus are better, there is no doubt about that, but there is still a way to go.

The latest job numbers from the American Labor Department prove that the coronavirus pandemic is still affecting unemployment rate. The impact of the virus as well as a nationwide worker shortage is keeping the jobs market in unsteady shape. People are very unsure of what comes ahead. Many agree that we are definitely not out of the woods yet.

Current Job Numbers

Employers in the United States added just 194,000 jobs in September, a second consecutive sluggish increase and evidence that the epidemic is still wreaking havoc on the economy, with many businesses failing to fill millions of available positions.

According to the data released, the unemployment rate fell from 5.2 percent to 4.8 percent in September of 2021. The unemployment rate declined partly because more individuals found work. However, it also dropped. This is because approximately 180,000 people did not seek work in September, so they were not listed as jobless. In many ways, they were throwing in the towel and giving up their hunt for a job.

The economy’s slow job growth in September fell short of even the meager 336,000 jobs gained in August, and were the fewest since December, when companies actually lost employment.

Delta Variant

The labor market is becoming even more complicated thanks to a resurgence of the coronavirus, the Delta variant.

There was a time when it looked as if the virus was subsiding in America. Then the emergence of the Delta variant complicated everything. The number of cases surged to heights not seen since last year. And that changed how people worked. Thankfully, it seems as if the United States is once again turning a corner on the virus and things are getting better.

With verified new COVID-19 infections dropping, restaurant traffic ticking up marginally, and customers eager to spend, the economy is showing signs of escaping from the drag of the delta strain of the coronavirus.

But when September began, the number of new illnesses remained high. This caused decreased hours at many jobs and a fear from customers and employees to visit businesses.

Additionally, employers are still having difficulty finding workers since many people who lost their employment due to the epidemic have yet to seek work or have decided to move on and find a new career. Many economists have been perplexed by the longevity of that pattern, which has resulted in a record number of job opportunities. The demand for labor is high, so are the number of people looking for new jobs.

Conclusion

Combined, the Delta variant and lacking unemployment numbers are limiting the amount of job growth possible. While many predicted that this current time would find a booming economy, it seems as if the return to normalcy and prosperity has been put on hold for a bit longer.

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Media Tech & Media

Get Apple TV+, These Shows Will Change Your Mind

et Apple TV+, These Shows Will Change Your Mind

When people are fussing about Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and HBOMax, there is something much more attentive and smarter. She is Apple TV+ with a plethora of interesting shows, which you can tune in for some interesting shows. Surprisingly, the news that Jennifer Aniston is getting associated with this channel spread like a fire, and people are barging in, purchasing the subscription on Apple TV+. So, if you consider yourself one of the best Friends fans, this is the right time to tune into this new streaming channel and watch The Morning Show with Jennifer Aniston.

Apple TV+ guarantees high-quality original content, and the shows they offer will make your decision to subscribe with this them even easier. So, if you want to get a glimpse of the shows Apply TV+ is broadcasting, completely read this article.

1.     The Morning Show

The Morning Show is the first TV serials starring Jennifer Aniston after Friends. The show falls under the category of a morning TV news show, and it includes behind the scenes. Besides Jennifer, the show also includes Steve Carell and Reese Witherspoon. Right now, Apple TV+ is broadcasting the second season of the show. If Netflix streamed this show, it would have been received awards to highlight the challenges of workplace sexual harassment.

2.     Ted Lasso

Ted Lasso, a US American football coach, has a unique way to see the harshness of life. He travels a long way to train a ragtag team of footballers. Since he has an optimistic personality, you will find him inspirational. Although this show is made in the US, British people will also find it relatable. This is one of the loveliest shows ever broadcasted on a streaming channel.

3.     Defending Jacob

There is good news for drama-mystery fans as Apple TV+ offers Defending Jacob. Starring Chris Evans, this show portrays the situation of a courtroom, where a family defends their son. Chris Evan’s son is being accused of murdering his classmate. Some scenes in this mini-series are unsettling and emotional, but it is worth watching. The subject matter is incredible and based on William Landay’s bestselling novel.

4.     SEE

After the launch of the Apple TV Plus, the See trailer was introduced to create a fuss among the audience. People went crazy about the show, especially after finding the cast of this Apple TV’s exclusive series. Starring Oscar Nominee, Alfre Woodard, and Jason Momoa, this show depicts an advanced civilization hundreds of years in the future from today. In the series, humans are born without sight, and we can say that Apple did a remarkable job in the science and fiction category.

Conclusion

So, did you found these shows interesting? If yes, then it is time to subscribe to the Apple TV+ and watch some of the amazing shows of all time. Also, you’ll find other amazing shows such as Servant, Truth Be Told, and For All Mankind to blow your mind.

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Media Tech & Media

The Best Streaming Services To Subscribe To

The Best Streaming Services To Subscribe To

It seems like every year there is a new streaming service that comes out. Some people love to sign up for new streaming services, while others like to stick to the ones they know. Either way, there are always new streaming services available. Some people might assume that Netflix is the best option available, but that has changed in recent times. Check out the newest list of all the streaming services available.

HBO Max

HBO has everything included with HBO, plus tons of new shows. You can pay for a version with ads or without depending on your needs and your budget. Friends are also on HBO Max along with tons of other shows that were removed from Netflix.

HBO also has some spinoffs of shows including The Peacemaker, a spinoff of Suicide Squad. HBO also has tons of original programming which are really well-made and have many famous celebrities that you will recognize from other TV shows.

Disney Plus

Disney Plus hasn’t been around for as many years as the other options, but it still has some solid options that make it a great choice for many reasons. Along with Disney shows and movies, Disney owns other properties that are all included with the Disney plus service.

This includes Marcel, Star Wars, and all 10 seasons of The Simpsons. It’s a few dollars cheaper than other streaming services, so it’s a great option if you want some streaming services at a cheaper price point without breaking the bank.

They are also testing the waters for a PPV service. This will include movies that have recently been in theaters.

Hulu

Hulu used to not be a tough competitor because it had significantly fewer shows and movies than Netflix. However, Hulu now has tons of current shows that come out the day after they are released on cable television. This is a great way to keep up with current shows without having to pay for cable.

Hulu also has tons of Hulu original shows which are some of the best shows currently out. Many people are turning to Hulu for interesting shows that aren’t available on Netflix. They have a no ad option that is a little more expensive or you can stick with the ads and save a few dollars every month.

Sling

Sling is one of the lesser-known options, but still a great choice if you are looking for shows currently on cable. They also have many ESPN channels, so it’s a great option if you are a sports fan.

You can also watch NBC, BBC America, CNN, and Cartoon Network. TBS and the Food Network are also included.

Netflix

Of course, Netflix has to be included because it’s one of the most popular choices and stable in most American households. Netflix has tons of original shows from a variety of countries. They also have older movies and shows if you are looking for a certain genre or era of films.

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Health & Home Media Recreation & Leisure Tech & Media

Books That TikTokers Can’t Stop Raving About

15 Books That TikTokers Can't Stop Raving About

TikTok is gaining more and more traction among people of all ages. It’s a great platform for users to showcase some interesting videos. If you use TikTok frequently, you’ve probably come across a few interesting reads through popular accounts. Some of the most popular BookTok genres include thriller, romance, and fantasy. These books are quite interesting and are a must-read if you’re a true reader. Mentioned below are a few books that Tiktokers cannot stop raving about.

1. It Ends with Us

It Ends With Us is a love storybook based on a love triangle that keeps you filled with questions till the end.

2. Then She Was Gone

Then She Was Gone is a New York Times Bestseller, and is based on a story about a mother whose 15-year-old daughter disappeared on vacation. The rollercoaster this novel takes you on is crazy.

3. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

This is a story about an unknown journalist who has to tell the scandalous truth about Hollywood’s biggest stars. The story revolves around why she was chosen to write about this, and the events that happen along the way are incredible.

4. A Court of Thorns and Roses

This book involves a lot of action and fantasy, so you’ll definitely want to keep on reading till you’re finished.

5. One of Us Is Lying

One Of Us Is Lying is a modern play based on The Breakfast Club. This story is also based on a series picked up by NBC and is definitely an interesting read.

6. The Unhoneymooners

This is a New York Times Bestseller Based on two twin sisters and how their personalities change until a big event.

7. Red, White & Royal Blue

If you’re up for a political read regarding international diplomacy that turns into a real romance, then you’ve got to get your hands on this book.

8. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

This story takes you back to 1714 in France about a woman who is forgotten but remembered by one.

9. Verity

Verity is a book about a ghostwriter who gets an offer as a ghostwriter.

10. We Were Liars

We Were Liars is a novel based on a beach story with an entirely shocking ending you can’t miss out on!

11. The Song of Achilles

The song of Achilles is a story that includes action-adventure and romance. Warning: once you get your hands on this book, there’s no putting it back down.

12. Legend

If you’re a Divergent and Hunger Games fan, you must give this book a read!

13. Punk 57

Punk 57 is a story about two pen pals Ryan and Misha. Their story takes you on an interesting journey about their friendship and relationship with each other.

14. Six of Crows

Six Of Crows is a highly recommended crime novel and is based on the Netflix series Shadow And Bone!

15. Malibu Rising

Malibu rising is an interesting story about four famous siblings, and you get to know about their deep and crazy secrets. This definitely makes the book super interesting, which makes you want to continue reading.

Conclusion

Now that you know about the top 15 books that TikToker loves these days, it’s time to update your reading list.

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Media Tech & Media

What Does The FDA Investigating Sunscreen Mean?

What Does The FDA Investigating Sunscreen Mean?

For many people, sunscreen is essential for a day out at the beach or when going out during the day. Some people use it every single day to get proper protection from the sun’s UV rays. As much as sunscreen is a lifesaver at times, the FDA has found some ingredients that consumers should know about. The FDA has found that various sunscreen ingredients could potentially be unsafe and come with a few health risks.

This has got many sunscreen lovers questioning the ability of product they’re using and if they should continue using it. Mentioned below are what the experts have to say about the FDA’s investigation regarding sunscreen. It will guide you on whether you should continue using specific products or not.

Ingredients in Sunscreen May Cause Coral Damage

Sunscreen contains two main types of ingredients, octinoxate and Oxybenzone, which are a threat to coral reefs and marine life. These ingredients can cause excessive coral bleaching. This causes corals to expel algae tissues living within, leaving a whitish stain behind. Some coral may starve without the algae. This can have a negative effect on the rest of the ecosystem, putting coral-dependent species at risk. This is why sunscreens that come with these ingredients are already banned in Hawaii. This explains why you come across these products labeled “reef-safe.” It’s to make sure that the creators are working towards protecting the environment.

The Ingredient Benzene Can Lead to May Health Complications

Benzene is a harmful ingredient found in Johnsons and Johnson products. According to the CDC, it can cause leukemia in cases of long-term exposure. Other than leukemia, it can also cause a weak immune system. According to Johnson and Johnson, exposure to benzene through aerosol sunscreen products is not expected to cause health consequences, according to current tests.

The FDA is still investigating 12 chemical sunscreen ingredients, and out of all of them, Oxybenzone has received the most spotlight. Research indicates that it can mix with your bloodstream and show up in your blood, urine, and breast milk, which can be very dangerous.

Labeling Requirements

The FDA is taking the initiative in labeling requirements for sunscreen so people actually know what they are buying. If a sunscreen mentions SPF 100 on the label, then that means you’re getting 1 percent more coverage than that of SPF 50. The type of formula will also be stated, which will tell its effectiveness on your skin. With proper labeling, you are aware of what’s going on your skin and how effective the sunscreens prove to be.

Final Words

Investigations by the FDA on sunscreen will continue, but up till whatever they have discovered is a good thing to keep track of. If you are a sunscreen lover, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in the products and their effectiveness.

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Health & Home Media Recreation & Leisure Tech & Media

14 Olympic Facts About That You Need To Know

14 Facts About The Olympics That You Need To Know

As the Olympic Games 2021 are finally taking place in Tokyo, it’ll be nice to learn some interesting facts. Some of the facts here are from Ancient Greek games, and others are from modern ones as well. Read further and learn some cool facts as you watch the Olympic Games.

1. Winners Names Imprinted on the Stadium Halls

After winning a medal, all the Olympic winners are honored at the stadium. Not only that, but their names are imprinted on the stadium walls, continuing their legacy.

2. Biting the Medal

Biting the Olympic medal is a tradition that you may have noticed in some of the games. So, you may ask yourself why? Well, this is an old tradition that was done to check if the coins were real, as a gold coin would never leave teeth marks. Most of the Olympic medals are now finished in gold and made of silver.

3. The Naked Athlete

During the ancient Greek games, many athletes would perform naked. It was seen as a symbol of courage, power, and fearlessness.

4. The Symbolic Olympic Rings

Curious as to what the olympic rings symbolize? Well, the colorful rings on the flag symbolize 5 continents and their flag colors.

5. The 1500 Year Old Hiatus

Pierre de Coubertin formed the International Olympic Committee, and it took almost 1593 years before for the Olympics to return. It originally ran from 776 BC to 392 AD.

6. The Medal Format

The ancient Greek Olympics only had only one medal, which was gold. Now, the modern Olympics have three medals; gold, silver, and bronze.

7. The First Paralytic Games

The first Paralympics games took place during the 1960s in Rome. This was initially for war veterans as a form of rehabilitation. The modern Paralympics consist of people with disabilities competing against each other.

8. Marathon Without Shoes

Abebi Bikila was the first African to win a gold medal in the Olympics. Not only did he win, but he won for competing in the marathon race barefoot.

9. Children and Amateurs were a Part of the Olympic Games

Until 1997, young people and amateurs were allowed to compete in the Olympics. However: the rules changed, and only above 16 can compete now.

10. A few Games are Not a Part of the Tug War

There are a few games not included in the modern Olympic Games, such as hot air ballooning, tug if warm plunge for distance, and dueling.

11. Rectangular Medals

The 1900 Paris games were the only Olympics games that offered winners rectangular medals.

12. First Female Participants

The 2012 London Olympic Games were the first ever in which each country sent female athletes.

13. Olympic Torch

The Olympic torch has been taken to save a few times!

14. Recycled Medals

 The Tokyo 2020-21 games are the first in history to give medals made from recycled materials that were being handed out.

The Takeaway

These facts surely may have blown your mind, especially if you’re keeping up with the current Olympic Games being held in Tokyo right now.

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Health & Home Media Recreation & Leisure Tech & Media

Top 10 Tokyo Olympic Events to Watch

Top 10 Tokyo Olympic Events To Watch

The Olympics is a great sports event that everyone looks forward to every four years. Unfortunately, it had to delay this time due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The 2020 games shifted to 2021. All Olympic events are fun and competitive to watch, especially when someone’s representing your country.

Some of the events have been played since the very first Greek Olympic Games, and they are quite interesting to watch. If you’re watching the 2021 Olympic Games Tokyo, then you’re in the right place. Mentioned below is a list of the top 10 Tokyo Olympic Games you must watch.

1. Gymnastics

Gymnastics is a whole new ball game and is one of the unique Olympic events to watch. This sport is quite difficult to participate in, especially after the introduction of the code of points in 2006. This sport involves a lot of creativity and athleticism. The dances are all unique and are very enjoyable to watch.

2. Judo

Judo is a special Japanese-originated game and is also one of the most popular summer Olympic Games. The game includes a burst of athletic actions, and the moves made by each participant are thrilling to watch!

3. Volleyball

Volleyball is a sport of amazing teamwork and communication, and it’s fun to watch this on live TV. The way each player participates and communicates in the field is exciting and interesting to watch. You will be astonished by some of the player’s height that goes upto to 11 feet.

4. Basketball

Basketball is one of the most famous games played at the Olympics. The game gets pretty intense during the last few seconds, and that’s the most interesting part. The fact that players play for their own country and not the NBA is nice to watch for a change.

5. Track and Field

Track Field is the core of the Olympic Games and is the unique sport to watch on TV. The event usually includes javelin, marathon, relay and much more. The adrenaline rush you see on track and field is totally different and makes the event quite competitive.

6. Swimming

Swimming is one of the moist diverse Olympic events to watch. You get to witness different swimming techniques, beautifully done by participants from all over the world. Some of the highest swimming world records have been set between the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

7. Soccer

Soccer is another popular and fun Olympic event you must watch. The athletics kicks and goals are quite exciting to witness.

8. Sport Climbing

Sports climbing is a new addition to the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Participants showcase their excellent athletic skills along with some fancy music. You will get a lot of spider-man vibes by watching the Olympic event.

9. Women’s Weightlifting

The Women’s 76kg weightlifting has won a lot of gold, and it’s quite aspiring to watch!

10. Surfing

Water sports are quite interesting to watch, especially watching Oskana Masters. This year’s surfing event will be e led by Carissa Moore, who is a four-time reigning world champion!

Conclusion

When watching the Tokyo Olympic Games, make sure to keep these top 10 events in mind, and don’t forget to give them a watch.

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Health & Home Media Recreation & Leisure Tech & Media

Best Young Adult Books We Are Obsessed With

Best Young Adult Books We Are Low-Key Obsessed With

There are many young adult books that we are low-key obsessed with, and we want to share them with you. If you are a fan of fantasy and romantic books, then you need to read the following mentioned books.

They Wish They Were Us

This amazing book is an artistic creation of Jessica Goodman. We must say, if you are a fan of thriller stories, then give a read to this book. Its storyline is pretty similar to the popular book “Gone Girl.” You will find everything, from friendship and romance drama.

The story revolves around the secret society in an elite prep school. Plus, it offers you a mystery that involves the murder of a famous girl. Hence, it has everything that you want in a book for young adults.

We Were Liars

This is another ideal choice for teens written by E. Lockhart. This book became popular after a great hype on TikTok. The story starts from an idyllic beach that will inspire you to spend a vacation on the East Coast private island.

However, when you reach the end, it will leave you in shock for days. The book comprises mystery, family secrets, and twists. If you are bored with sci-fiction books, then read this one to bring thrill to your life.

Year One: Chronicles of the One

Nora Roberts is the writer of this novel. This book tells a story that contains fiction and fantasy. It’s a story of the post-apocalyptic world, when both evil and good magic became popular.

Apart from this, you will love the idea of incorporating multiple storylines and characters. All the characters are striving for a better life in a completely new world so that they can survive. If you love Harry Potter and Divergent-type books, then you will like this one as well.

Happy-Go-Lucky

L.H. Cosway is the author of Happy-Go-Lucky, providing you lots of entertainment, thrill, and fun. Every workplace has an employee that no one wants to mess with. It is based on the same idea and revolves around the story of handsome Cameron Grant.

This man doesn’t love to socialize with his fellow workers, which makes everyone curious about him. You will encounter romance and tension in this novel that will force you to read this book in a day.

The Promised Prince

Kortney Keisel is the author of The Promised Prince. This storyline is based on the love story of Renna Degray. She is hopeful of finding her love of life when, out of chance, she meets a handsome man.

Renna tries to control her feelings because he is the Prince of Albion. But she finds it difficult to forget her love, as the Prince makes it hard for them. This novel is the best young adult book that includes all the fantasy and romances a teen wants.

Bottom Line

So, read these young adults’ books one by one to keep yourself entertained and amused. For sure, if you already love adult books, you will like these as well.

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Health & Home Media Recreation & Leisure Tech & Media

15 Binge-Worthy Podcasts for your Summer Trip

15 Binge-Worthy Podcasts for your Summer Trip

As much as we look forward to summer trips, especially road trips, the long hours of travel can drive us insane. But not anymore, thankfully.

Here are top 15 binge-worthy podcasts that will make your summer trips a lot more fun.

1. Ologies

Alie Ward is the host of this podcast and is a science correspondent as well as a writer. She interviews people from all professions and every podcast packs tons of humour, entertainment and information. You will find a range of topics to entertain you every moment of your trip.

2. Accused

Who doesn’t enjoy a spookiness factor in an adventurous trip? We all do and this podcast is sure to satisfy your yearnings for an exciting crime story.

3. The Habitat

This is a giant from the podcast world and you cannot find more binge-worthy podcasts for your trip. These podcasts are the auto diaries of six people that NASA chooses to stimulate life on Mars. Of you want a taste of just how human life would feel on Mars, let this podcast be your guide.

4. The Thing About Pam

This podcast features a nail-biting mystery. The story dates in 2011 when Russ Faria finds his wife stabbed to death on returning home, two days after Christmas. The story makes you sit on the edge in anticipation each moment as the husband faces the murder charge typically and have to prove his innocence while avenging his wife.

5. Ear Hustle

This is a non-fiction podcast featuring the life inside a prison. You will enjoy a range of humorous, funny, intimate and heart warming stories in this one.

6. Uncivil

Uncivil dissects the civil wars are journalists Chenjerai Kumanyika and Jack Hitt take us back to where the division began in America.

7. Travel Tales by AFAR

This podcast is a fun compilation of stories of people who took trips around the world and came home transformed from the journey. Who knows, you might find some inspiration for your trip too.

8. Limetown

This podcast is a narration by Lia Haddock who explores a nerve-wracking mystery in a tiny town of Tennessee.

9. Outside Podcast

This is a weekly podcast that features a world of stories relating to endurance athletes, epic rescues and the science of survival.

10. You’re Wrong About

Two journalists host this podcast, diving deep into people and events of the past, how they were presented or misrepresented to the world.

11. Office Ladies

This podcast is a rewatch ride of the famous sitcom, The Office.

12. To Live And Die In LA

An author and journalist host this podcast and takes you through the mystery disappearance of Adea, a 25 years old actress.

13. Running From Cops

The main character in this podcast dives into the longtime fandome of his famous reality shows ‘COPS’.

14. Dying for Sex

This podcast features a conversation between two best friends about friendships, relationships, sex and even death. You will surely experience and endorphin rush with this one.

15. TED Radio Hour

This podcast is an exploration of the big ideas of TED speakers.