Big is Good. Little is Better.

J.K. Rowling may have made a mint by writing really long books (followed by even longer ones). Still, if you ask me, there’s a reason that six-word memoirs and four-word film reviews are so popular.

The four podcasts that follow prove that good things really do come in small packages: in two minutes or less, they offer plenty of insight and wit. But be warned: they’re as addictive as potato chips, so you probably won’t be able to take in just one.

1. Sixty-Second Psych. (Audio) What’s that? You really don’t think you need to stay abreast the latest scientific research on brain imaging and nematode worms? Think again. The studies might look mundane on the surface, but they can help us understand who we fall in love with, what inspires us to make changes in ourselves, and why we’re so darn gullible. Add in the sparkling delivery of host Christie Nicholson and the heft of the Scientific American brand, and you’ve got a pretty much flawless podcast. Can’t say enough about this one.


2. New Yorker Animated Cartoons. (Video)New Yorker cartoons have their share of fans, but they also have plenty of haters (here, too). Nonetheless, I think these cartoons are little gems. The commercials are exasperating, but beyond that, it’s well worth the 30-second investment.





3. Ellen In A Minute. (Video) Back in my youth, the Price is Right was the ultimate TV show for a sick day—it wasn’t mentally taxing, but it wasn’t boring, either. I feel like Ellen will be that show for future generations. Sure, you can’t stay home every day to watch the affable host dance her way across the screen, but if you’ve got a minute, you can hit most of the day’s highlights and watch celebs recount a funny story or two.



4. The Onion Radio News. (Audio) The much-beloved parody newspaper translated its signature style from printed page to podcast without a hitch. This Area Woman is impressed.