What are Podcasts?
It is evident that we are living in the golden age of podcasts.
As of 2020, over one million podcasts and over 29 million episodes are online, ready to stream into your earbuds or over your speakers.
Podcasts come in just about every genre, format, and style you can think of, from highly orchestrated shows that sound like mainstream radio programs to conversational podcasts that might remind you of tuning in to intimate gossip, scandalous disclosures and even fictional shows that harken back to traditional, nostalgic, old-school dramas.
For iPhone users:
You can stream and download podcasts, as well as set your favorites to download automatically so you never miss an episode.
You can also skip back in 15-second intervals and forward in 30-second intervals, which can save you time if you do not want to listen to ads.
To save even more time, you can play podcasts at faster speeds if you are one of those people whose brains work at warp speed.
The app also has a “browse” section that lets you discover new and top-rated podcasts by category.
For Android users:
You have also got a free built-in podcast app.
It does everything that Apple Podcasts does, so you can start listening in seconds and subscribe to keep it up.
Google Play also has a browser version: If you want to listen at your computer while slogging through dry tasks at work and save your phone’s battery, that might be a good option for you.
While some of us might think of Spotify as a music service, it added podcast functionality in 2015.
If you already use Spotify for those sweet jams, you can switch between songs and podcast episodes without having to open a new app, which is a convenient feature.
For Castro users:
Castro allows you to auto-queue your top shows, so you never miss an episode, or limit the number of shows that show in your queue, to keep things streamlined.
For others you only dip into occasionally, just add them to your inbox.
Castro also gives you the option to trim silences, adjust the playback speed, enhance voices, and even skip intros to keep that marathon listening session moving.
While you will need to subscribe to access some of the higher-tech features, they might be worth it for dedicated podcast fans.
Subscriptions will run you $26 per year if you decide to level up.
Podcast Channel |
The Mr Brown Show |
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Specialty |
mrbrown (Kin Mun Lee) is the Blogfather of Singapore, satirist, writer, lyricist, traveler, photographer, cyclist, gamer, and podcaster. Interests: anime, xbox, japanese robot toys, iphone, gba and pc gaming, writing about my country, cycling, lord of the ring’s movies, mobile phones, apple macintoshes, ps3, family, children, gaming, hobbies, satire, humour. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
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| Host site: |
Podcast Channel |
Glenn and the Flying Dutchman |
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Specialty |
ONE FM 91.3’s Glenn Ong and The Flying Dutchman with Andre Hoeden and Shaun Tupaz – Bringing you the greatest laughs and latest news this side of the world. A radio veteran of over 20 years, Ong has been described as “foul, politically incorrect but refreshingly candid”, #1 Breakfast Show. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/one-fm-913s-glenn-and-the-flying-dutchman |
| Host site |
https://omny.fm/shows/glenn-ong-and-the-flying-dutchman/playlists/one-fm-91-3s-1-breakfast-show |
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Host site |
http://www.radio-singapore.com/podcasts/one-fm-913s-glenn-and-the-flying-dutchman |
Podcast Channel |
Not Again Podcast |
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Specialty |
Gary Tan is a stand-up comedian based in Singapore. This is the show where Gary tries to figure out life, by talking to people such as artists, musicians, stand-up comics, others over conversation. With various subjects in mind, learning how to navigate life while being funny at the same time. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/not-again-podcast |
| Host site | |
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Host site |
Podcast Channel |
The Pulse |
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Specialty |
The Pulse is CNA’s weekly podcast that takes on anything, from politics to entertainment. It brings together personalities with a view in a funny, irreverent, and insightful chat that takes the pulse of the country on issues that matter. They comment on the latest trends, fads, fashions, assess their value. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/the-pulse-2116352 |
| Host site |
http://www.radio-singapore.com/podcasts/the-pulse4 |
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Host site |
https://www.melisten.sg/podcast/playlist/The-Pulse-10716190 |
Podcast Channel |
Analyze Asia |
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Specialty |
Analyze Asia with Bernard Leong is a weekly podcast dedicated to the pulse of technology, business, and media in Asia. They interview thought leaders, leading industry players and gain their insights to how we perceive and understand the market. He discusses evolution of entrepreneurial ecosystems in SEA, and business trends. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/analyse-asia-with-bernard-leong-2391199 |
| Host site |
https://analyse.asia/category/podcast/ |
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Host site |
https://play.acast.com/s/analyseasia |
Podcast Channel |
Maddy, Andre & Divan In the Morning |
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Specialty |
From 6:00am to 10:00am, the down to earth, intelligent, and energetic trio offers the latest news and informative lifestyle snippets ranging from travel, beauty, parenting. Together with all the great songs in one place and exciting prizes for listeners, Maddy, Andre & Divian are set to brighten up your day. Services: Comedy, humor, Singapore news, Singapore trends, commentary |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/maddy-andre-divian-in-the-morning |
| Host site | |
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Host site |
Podcast Channel |
Podcasts@SMU |
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Specialty |
A premier university in Asia, the Singapore Management University (SMU) is internationally recognized for its world class research and distinguished teaching. This section is an online resource of SMU podcasts that feature research and business insights from SMU faculty on a diverse range of subject matters, featuring SMU’s stellar academics. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
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| Host site | |
| Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/podcastssmu-singapore-management-university-OlHFArw8ZDL/ |
Podcast Channel |
Conversation With |
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Specialty |
“Conversation With” is Channel NewsAsia’s flagship one-on-one interview programme that has run for over 18 years. The primetime interview show focuses on one distinguished personality in each episode. Recent guests include former US President Barack Obama, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, prominent leaders. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/conversation-with-podcast |
| Host site |
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/topic/conversation-with |
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Host site |
https://www.cna.org/news/podcast |
Podcast Channel |
ITPM Podcast |
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Specialty |
The Institute of Trading and Portfolio Management (ITPM) provides industry-leading financial education. Listeners will have access to some of the best minds in the Investment Management industry talking through current and relevant ideas in the financial markets. Expect to expand your investment knowledge and improve your trading performance, market analysis. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
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| Host site | |
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Host site |
https://www.owltail.com/podcast/tbeGP-ITPM-Podcast/best-episodes |
Podcast Channel |
The ABF Podcast |
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Specialty |
Hosted by Adam Bakhtiar and Julie Yoo of Channel NewsAsia’s flagship business bulletin, Asia Business First. The ABF Podcast provides an in-depth look at the business and financial news and trends that matter to you. Financial issues like CPF, investment, market trends, motor trends, cryptocurrency trends, estate planning are analyzed. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/the-abf-podcast |
| Host site |
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/podcasts/the-abf-podcast |
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Host site |
http://www.radio-singapore.com/podcasts/the-abf-podcast |
Podcast Channel |
On the Record |
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Specialty |
On the Record started as 938LIVE’s flagship one-on-one personality-based interview show. Now running more than 60 episodes, it is a hard-hitting and thought-provoking weekly interview with thought leaders across Singapore, on issues ranging from politics, the arts, business, the economy to social causes, featuring business leaders, politicians, artists, NGO leaders. |
| Pricing |
Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/on-the-record-1937003 |
| Host site | https://www.melisten.sg/podcast/playlist/On-The-Record-10716180 |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/on-the-record-cna-k9XxDN02Vyb/ |
Podcast Channel |
Hapapap |
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Specialty |
They are a group of middle-class office workers from Singapore who got together to give their opinionated views. They aim to do big things starting with their very own podcast show. Opinionated and non-expert discussions about everything under the sun involving middle classes, culture. By professional amateurs based in Singapore. Services: Lifestyle, comedy, middle-class, Animated fiction, games |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/hapapap-podcast-opinionated-non-expert-discussions-2507373 |
| Host site | https://hapapap.com/ |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/hapapap-podcast-opinionated-non-expert-tHQfoGiJh4l/ |
Podcast Channel |
Decrypt Asia |
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Specialty |
Decrypt Asia aims to decode and demystify the Asian Blockchain and Cryptocurrency ecosystem by producing educational notes and interviewing investors, entrepreneurs, technologists, and industry insiders on a weekly basis. They are a community of learners, seekers, and doers in a post-Bitcoin world, engaging financial currency trends, changes, digital currency transitions. Services: Trading, business, economics, blockchain investor, technology |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://player.fm/series/decrypt-asia-blockchain-and-cryptocurrency-podcast |
| Host site | https://decrypt.asia/ |
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Host site |
https://soundcloud.com/user-337931810 |
Podcast Channel |
Supernatural Confessions |
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Specialty |
A firm believer in the paranormal world? Grab a snack, make yourself comfortable and strap on for the ride with host and producer Eugene Tay, who has first-hand experience in dealing with the supernatural. He explores the Lion City for strange sightings by interviewing witnesses, narrating paranormal stories. Services: Supernatural, paranormal, haunted buildings, ghost stories, spooky tales |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://www.supernaturalconfessions.com/podcast.html |
| Host site | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9hMmE5ZWI0L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/supernatural-confessions-true-ghost-stories-txWgkp_fvbJ/ |
Podcast Channel |
SG Explained |
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Specialty |
With a melting pot of cultures, you cannot describe Singapore in one word other than unique. Two regular Singaporeans, Rovik and Elliot, deconstruct the nuanced city-state with different agendas in every episode, from finding the best chicken rice to tracing the origin of the Kallang Wave to Singapore’s arts scene. Services: Singapore hawker food, Singapore culture, Singapore dining, Singapore trends, Singapore arts |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://anchor.fm/sg-explained |
| Host site | https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/sg-explained-rovik-robert-elliot-tan-E6Lf-WTQil7/ |
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Host site |
https://player.fm/series/sg-explained |
Podcast Channel |
Yah Lah But |
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Specialty |
This comedic duo from Ministry of Funny, Haresh and Terence, discuss the buzz in Singapore and pop culture with their no-holds-barred approach. No topic is too risque – from spotlighting the infamous cast of Netflix’s Singapore Social, to discussing the “brownface” fiasco that happened last year, to examining the Covid-19 crisis. Services: Singapore trends, Singapore humor, Singapore comedy, Singapore news, Singapore satire |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://ministryoffunny.podbean.com/ |
| Address | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9taW5pc3RyeW9mZnVubnkucG9kYmVhbi5jb20vZmVlZC54bWw= |
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Host site |
https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/yah-lah-but-842290 |
Podcast Channel |
Financially Literate Singapore |
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Specialty |
Looking to manage your finances or trying to figure out what in the world is a good investment? Discover how to navigate through the world of finance as the podcast decodes myths, examines the current stock market climate (which has been badly hit, thanks to Covid-19), giving you money-saving advice. Services: Stocks, finance, market analysis, financial advice, estate planning |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://thefinancialcoconut.libsyn.com/website |
| Host site | https://podtail.com/en/podcast/financially-literate-singapore/ |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/financially-literate-singapore-the-JU8mnKy7LYg/ |
Podcast Channel |
Randomly Relatable SG |
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Specialty |
Delivering three new episodes weekly, Shuraim, Uwais and Sabrina dish on anything and everything under the sun. Including interesting and controversial topics like Tinder dates, lepak spots in Singapore and prostitution. They even had discussions with a transgender and an ex-convict. It is down to earth gossip at its finest. Services: Gossip, culture, controversy, crime, sexual deviance |
| Pricing | https://anchor.fm/randomlyrelatablesg |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/randomly-relatable-sg-shuraim-uwais-and-4LDp_lJzB6-/ |
| Host site | https://www.breaker.audio/randomly-relatable-sg |
Podcast Channel |
Endurance Asia |
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Specialty |
Endurance Asia celebrates everything about endurance sports, from Ultra Marathons to Mountaineering, from Adventure Races to Ironman. They hear from athletes, explorers, and race directors from or based in the Asia Pacific region. Hosted by endurance enthusiasts based in Singapore, they celebrate ordinary people achieving huge feats, stretching physical limits. Services: Sports, endurance sports, marathons, races, mountaineering |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://www.enduranceasia.com/podcasts |
| Host site | http://www.asiatrailmaster.com/endurance-asia-podcast |
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Host site |
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-endurance-asia-podcast-endurance-asia-ncAUqxYCz9I/ |
Podcast Channel |
City Music |
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Specialty |
Beyond gearing you up with musical instruments, City Music makes podcasts. #The CityBois come together every week to explore trending topics – packed with music-making bits. Maximising full usage of the Zoom LiveTrak L-8 interface (an essential for podcasters everywhere), the team gives audio talk-throughs on simplifying your portable recording setup. |
| Pricing | Free |
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Website |
https://audioboom.com/channels/5020991 |
| Host site | https://www.radio.com/podcasts/city-music-singapore-42777 |
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Host site |
https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/city-music-singapore-1071355 |
Podcasts in Singapore
Podcasts – serial online audio recordings first put out in 2004 – are getting more popular because they tend to be more personal and are targeted at audiences, says Dr Tracy Loh, senior lecturer of communication management at the Lee Kong Chian School of Business, Singapore Management University.
“They are the audio versions of blogs. Each episode tends to deal with a specific topic, or a current event and you get to hear the author’s point of view. To a certain extent, it is like listening to a friend.”
Traditional media, on the other hand, tends to cater to the mass market and can lack that personal touch, she adds.
“There is no detailed treatment of a topic and you can’t listen to a particular broadcast as and when you wish to because the schedule is set and controlled by the broadcaster, not the listener.”
ST and BT have 10 series – covering various topics from health to money matters – which are released in weekly, fortnightly or monthly formats. They also get air play during the weekends on SPH Radio station 89.3FM.
While most listeners are from Singapore, the podcasts also attract listeners from Malaysia, the United States, Australia, and Japan.
Stomp editor and content strategist Azhar Kasman, who also leads SPH’s audio strategy, says: “We hope to make podcasts a positive habit among our audience. They have read our stories, seen our photos and watched our videos. Now, they can listen to us while they are driving, commuting, or having their lunch.”
Another local show in the Spotify charts is Malay newspaper Berita Harian’s #NoTapis, which averages about 10,000 listeners a month. It reached No. 3 in July.
A talkshow hosted by Berita Harian reporter Shahida Sarhid and popular television personality Suhaimi Yusof, the episodes feature guests such as veteran singer Ramli Sarip.
Podcasts are an effective way for the newspaper to reach out to the younger audience, says Mr Nazri Hadi Saparin, the supervisor of Berita Harian’s podcasts. Half of their listeners are in their 20s and early 30s.
One local podcast which features a name familiar to music fans is Good Hang, a pop culture podcast helmed by singer Nathan Hartono and his good friend Jon Cancio.
The show was launched in 2015.
Says Hartono: “At the time, we were the only other people we knew who even listened to podcasts regularly. We could also talk for hours on end about nothing. So, when we asked each other ‘Should we do a podcast?’, it all came down to just sitting in front of some mics, pressing record, and hoping for the best.”
The topics are random and cover anything from television and movies to video games and comic books.
Hartono, who has been listening to podcasts regularly, says that he is seeing more people appreciating the “intimacy” found in listening to podcasts.
“It’s a very personal experience. And there is really something for everybody, ranging from educational, to self-improvement, or plain silliness.”
Podcasts complement a more traditional audio-based medium – radio.
SPH Radio, which operates English stations such as Kiss 92 and Mandarin stations such as UFM100.3, offers podcasts on its websites and its app to cater to on-demand audio listeners, says its general manager, Mr Sim Hong Huat.
“Podcasts complement our on-air offerings and are an extension of the station’s brand.”
Sample costs of Podcasts in Singapore:
You just need to find a podcast platform or app that suits you and then sample some of the many thousands of podcasts made around the world
All podcasts are free, and most are available via many different apps.
Editor’s Note:
While every precaution has been made to ensure the accuracy and fairness of this listing, we acknowledge that they may be inaccuracies. Therefore, we urge you to contact the service provider above for the correct information and/or contact us with the correct information.
If you are a service provider and wish to be featured in this listing (MediaOne reviews are read by hundreds of thousands of Singaporeans), please contact us at enquiry@mm.com.sg. There is no charge! Please allow us up to 3 working days to review before adjusting the information or including your entry.
