Podcast Radio Hour

BBC Radio 4 Extra explores the world of podcasts and finds the best on offer from the BBC and beyond. From some of the most popular series to lesser-known hidden gems. Sarah Wade and her guest: comedian, actress and podcaster Cariad Lloyd listen in to 'Standard Issue' from the UK and 'Heavyweight' from the USA.

Amanda Litherland speaks to Samira Ahmed and producer Farah Jassat about How I Found My Voice, and to Ros Atkins and Eli Sessions about Texting Keith Olbermann.

How I Found My Voice is the podcast that explores how some of the world's greatest artists and thinkers became such compelling - and unique - communicators. This Intelligence Squared podcast goes behind the celebrity to understand the journeys and inspirations that led to this moment - from writing a childhood diary to that life-changing concert or finding the courage to speak up. Hosted by Samira Ahmed, guests include Rose McGowan, Adam Buxton, Philip Pullman, Katherine Ryan and Benjamin Zephaniah. Produced by Farah Jassat.

Texting Keith Olbermann: One night in 2016, BBC News anchor Ros Atkins was retweeted by the legendary American broadcaster Keith Olbermann. The comment? “Thank God you’re back."

Two years on, despite having never met, Keith and Ros were texting each other almost every day. Keith would send pictures of his dogs, the view from his Manhattan penthouse or the oysters that he was eating. He'd also send details of his latest ratings and thoughts on Ros's show. He even sponsored the match ball at the tiny football club at the end of Ros's road in London.

In Texting Keith Olbermann, Ros Atkins asks Keith what everyone was asking him: why is he doing it? And as Ros's wife realises he's texting Keith more than anyone apart from her, she has the same question for him. Two parallel conversations play out, as we hear funny, fascinating and sometimes awkward explorations of fame, money, death threats, being a TV anchor, and the backstories to some of the most notorious moments of Keith's career. We also find out what happens to this unconventional friendship when they meet in person.

Made for 4 Extra. Hosts Anne-Marie Luff and Sophie Black share their favourite family-focused podcasts.

We review The Longest Shortest Time and speak to its host Andrea Silenzi. Plus we hear some of the kids’ podcast Everything Under The Sun and talk to its creator Molly Oldfield.

Made for 4 Extra. David McGuire joins Amanda Litherland to recommend favourite podcasts, including Swipe Left Swipe Left, and Love + Radio.

Amanda Litherland and Chrystal Genesis recommend some great podcasts made on the African continent. Including Sound Africa's true crime series They Killed Dulcie, Afroqueer, Not Your African Cliché and Afropop Worldwide.