If you ask Jenn Im, there is a podcast suitable for every occasion. “Podcasts have gotten really versatile. If I’m driving, cleaning the house or just getting ready, I’ll throw on a more conversational or funny podcast,” she says. “But I’m also a really inquisitive person, so I love to learn through my podcasts. Recently, I’ve dug into more of the science-based and conversational variety.”
For Im, a good podcast is an instant portal of knowledge that allows her to deep dive into the worlds of productivity, wellness or any subject that captures her interest. Now, as a new mum, she has a whole new audio genre to explore.” I really enjoy how parental intuition can express itself in almost every subject. There isn’t any particular podcast I listen to entirely about motherhood—but I love any show where the host is a parent.”
Fans of Im will know that the 31-year-old was one of the earliest YouTube creators who made her mark in the fashion world over 10 years ago, while she was still in college. She quickly found success with her original thrifting videos, which slowly evolved into weekly vlogs and lifestyle-focused content. Along the way, her infectious personality and keen sense of style earned her a loyal following of over three million subscribers on YouTube and nearly two million on Instagram.
But with her first child now having arrived, what she’s most interested in is slowing down. “The place I find myself in right now feels extremely pivotal, more than any previous point in my life has,” Im ruminates. “Becoming a mother has been one of the biggest roles I have ever taken on. Entering parenthood felt like a blast into a new dimension—my routine and habits are now entirely different and I’m still trying to settle into this new version of myself. There are a lot of things that I have put on pause, but I do not want to put pressure on my creativity or success just to chase the next career milestone.”
She shares: “The first five years of your child’s life are the most crucial and I have the privilege of time. I want to cherish these special moments with my son and the experience of being a first time mother.” As she sits down to unwind and enjoy her newfound peace with a podcast, Im picks out a curation for Vogue—from all-time favourites to emerging shows.
1 / 8
My all-time favourite podcast episode is...
‘Personalities’ from Ologies. I have always been obsessed with personality tests and inner work, and this episode thoroughly broke down the history of personalities in a very entertaining way.
2 / 8
The best podcast to learn with is...
Huberman Lab. The host, Dr Andrew Huberman, is a neuroscientist and professor at Stanford. I have learnt so much about the science behind the brain and how it controls our emotional response, strength and immune system.
3 / 8
One podcast that teaches me about motherhood is...
Unlocking Us by Brene Brown. Brown has a PhD in philosophy and two teens, and she does an excellent job shedding insight on parenting and the role of motherhood.
4 / 8
When I want something funny...
I turn on The Duncan Trussell Family Hour. I find his witty and quirky takes on cultural events truly hilarious, and have been a fan for nearly 10 years.
5 / 8
For some help with self-love...
Try any podcast episode with Geneen Roth, author and speaker, who focuses on body image and eating habits, or Anne Lamott, the author of Bird by Bird, for wisdom on confidence. Super Soul Conversations with Oprah Winfrey is another favourite of mine.
6 / 8
When I want a motivational kick...
I listen to The Life Coach School. Brooke Castillo’s episode on ‘How To Plan’ taught me the necessity of strategising ahead to allow more time to do the things I want with the people I love.
7 / 8
If you're new to podcasts...
8 / 8
The next podcast on my list...
Where Should We Begin? by Esther Perel, who captures her counselling of real couples while connecting with them and any conflict they’re facing.
