Culture Gabfest

Slate's Culture Gabfest is one of the longest-running cultural criticism podcasts around, and it has earned that longevity. Hosted by critics Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner, the show tackles three cultural topics each week -- usually a mix of highbrow and mainstream. One segment might be about a new Coen Brothers film, the next about a reality TV phenomenon, and the third about a literary controversy. That range is what makes it interesting. The three hosts are sharp and opinionated but never mean-spirited. Metcalf brings a philosophical bent to discussions, Stevens (who is also Slate's film critic) offers the most traditional criticism angle, and Turner grounds things with a journalist's eye for what matters and why. They disagree frequently and productively. You will not find them all piling on with the same take -- genuine debate happens here, and they change each other's minds on air sometimes. With nearly 950 episodes and a 4.4-star rating, Culture Gabfest has been a weekly fixture for well over a decade. Episodes run about an hour and drop every Wednesday. The show also features an endorsement segment at the end where each host recommends something they have been enjoying, which has introduced listeners to books, shows, restaurants, and random cultural artifacts for years. If you want entertainment commentary that treats pop culture seriously without being stuffy about it, this is a smart pick.