My morning commute is about 1 1/2 hours long. But it’s no straight shot. I walk 15min to the pier and hang out on the Sea Sprig (one of Lamma’s ferries) for 25min. Then I walk 10min to the subway or bus stop and 20 min later I hop off. The journey ends with a short walk to the kindergartens.
My commute isn’t half bad. It gives me time to snooze on the ferry. And it gives me time to enjoy my iPod. I’ve recently discovered the joys of podcasts and news pods in particular.
My daily regiment is:
- NPR news summary
- NPR story of the day
- BBC news
- South China Morning Post news
On a weekly basis I enjoy:
- This American Life
- A Prairie Home Companion – News from Lake Wilbecom, MI
I like the NPR news summary for its brevity. I get the major US and international stories with no fluff.
But the NPR story of the day is an in-depth report. Continually hearing stories on Iraq gets old but my ears perk up when they cover some other story that isn’t so depressing, like who’s grubby mits are trying to claim the North Pole.
If you want a half an hour of brutal honesty coupled with dry humor then the BBC news-pod is for you. My favorite aspect is the reporters drive to get an honest answer out of politicians, especially American politicians. They are relentless. I openly chuckle on the MTR at the way they push and provoke until the heart of the matter is uncovered. “You’re not going to give me that load of garbage again.” It’s great fun and I wish that US reporters would take a hint.
The South China Morning Post covers Hong Kong, China, and international news. If you want the feeling that you’re sitting in a living room with good friends then listen to this daily 1/2-hour newscast. The reporters are Chinese, American, and British. So there’s a great mix of perspective and comedic style. And in the end they tack on a one-minute Mandarin Chinese lesson.
I really wish that Al-Jazzera would translate their podcast into English. Then I’d feel like I was getting a more complete view of the world each day.
And on my commute home from school, on the days I feel particularly worn out, Ira Glass is there for me. This American Life is a solid hour of solid entertainment. My week wouldn’t be complete without it.
And then when I need some fatherly advise I tune into the News of Lake Wobegon, MI. Garrison Keillor’ s smooth, deep voice lulls away any fears with musings of any sort. A Prairie Home Companion leaves no topic uncovered.
So on most days, like when it’s not raining, I look forward to my commute time. My time.
§Commentary
I like what’s on your NPR buffet table, Jenny. My favorite is Ira Glass. But how about adding David Die (sp?) for a daily dose of what’s new, old, hot, cool or in the midst of a revival in music? His interviews with musical performers have often led to additions to my CD collection.
I love those NPR programs too, especially A Prarie Home Companion and This American Life. Ira Glas is really entertaining. Those programs got me through many a lonely time in the old Vermont cabin.
I think Lake Wobegon is in WI.