Pop Culture Happy Hour

Pop Culture Happy Hour has been NPR's go-to source for entertainment recommendations since 2010, and it shows no signs of slowing down. The show runs four days a week, with hosts Linda Holmes, Glen Weldon, Stephen Thompson, and Aisha Harris rotating through episodes that cover movies, TV, music, books, and video games. Each host brings a distinct perspective — Linda's warmth and literary background, Glen's sharp comic book expertise, Stephen's musical knowledge, and Aisha's film criticism chops — which keeps the conversation lively without ever turning combative. The format is tightly produced at around 25 minutes per episode, making it easy to slot into a lunch break or short commute. A typical week might include a review of whatever just topped the box office, a deep look at a buzzy streaming series, and a recommendation segment where each panelist champions something the others might have missed. The show also brings in rotating guest critics who add fresh takes and broader cultural context. What makes this podcast stand out from the sea of pop culture shows is its genuine enthusiasm. The hosts clearly love what they cover, and disagreements play out as spirited conversations rather than scorched-earth takedowns. NPR's production polish is evident throughout — clean audio, smart editing, and just enough structure to keep things moving. The Pop Culture Happy Hour+ subscription tier offers a sponsor-free feed for listeners who want the pure experience. With well over a decade of episodes in the archive, newcomers have a massive back catalog to explore.