Top 5 Podcast Picks This Week: Books, Relationships, History & Sports
From literary conversations in a pub setting to Viking history lessons and wedding planning advice, this week's podcast selections offer something for every listener. Here are five standout shows to add to your playlist.
1. Book Club In The Pub
Streaming platform: All streaming platforms and YouTube
Genre: Arts and books
For dedicated bibliophiles who enjoy dissecting their latest reads with friends, Book Club In The Pub is an essential addition to your listening library. Set against the warm, inviting backdrop of a traditional pub, this podcast creates a relaxed and intimate atmosphere where celebrated authors delve into their newest works, creative processes, and the themes that inspire them.
In the inaugural episode, host and Sunday Times bestselling author Esmie Jikiemi-Pearson converses with New Zealand novelist Chloe Gong about her gripping dystopian cyberpunk novel Coldwire, which examines the struggle for justice within a virtual reality landscape. Gong, whose debut novel These Violent Delights topped The New York Times Bestseller list when she was just 21, reflects on how her youth influenced the book's perspective and emotional depth, while openly discussing the imposter syndrome that often accompanies early publishing success.
Jikiemi-Pearson's evident passion for literature drives thoughtful discussions about the rapid rise of young adult fantasy and the broader role books play in our lives. If you're seeking engaging, thought-provoking literary conversations accompanied by excellent reading recommendations, settle in and tune into Book Club In The Pub.
2. The Bride's Room
Streaming platform: All streaming platforms and YouTube
Genre: Relationships
When host Aisha Lumumba, known professionally as Authentic Aisha, was planning her 2022 wedding, she searched unsuccessfully for a virtual support group for couples navigating the wedding planning rollercoaster. Her solution was to create The Bride's Room podcast instead.
Every Thursday, Lumumba welcomes a recent bride to discuss everything from vendor nightmares and budgeting stress to family pressure, friendships, and unexpected moments that nearly derailed their big day. This week, 2025 bride Shay Oshinusi joins the conversation to unpack her experience planning both a destination wedding in Portugal and a traditional Nigerian wedding in the UK.
The pair discuss the pressures of simultaneously managing wedding preparations and a house renovation, Oshinusi's proposal story, and her quick decision to book her venue. As a wedding and events planner herself, Oshinusi shares what elements she prioritized for her wedding, including hair and makeup, and emphasizes the importance of planning nuptials that authentically represent you and your partner. For current brides seeking a safe space and firsthand advice, The Bride's Room offers valuable insights.
3. Real Vikings
Streaming platform: All streaming platforms and YouTube
Genre: History
If you were among the millions captivated by the historical drama series Vikings, this new podcast will likely appeal to you. However, the true beauty of Real Vikings is that it requires no prior knowledge of Norse culture—it's a comprehensive resource for learning all things Viking, free from the historical inaccuracies often seen on screen.
This 10-part series is narrated by actor Iain Glen (known for Game Of Thrones and Downton Abbey), whose familiar, dulcet tones guide listeners through true stories of Viking culture in an entertaining docudrama style. With contributions from leading historians, the podcast focuses on figures like Ragnar Lothbrok, Canute, and Harald Hardrada, exploring the reality of Viking influence while myth-busting stereotypes and uncovering lesser-known tales, including a brutal murder on Dorset's Chesil Beach.
Glen's delivery is a feast for the ears, and the immersive sound design of each episode will leave you eager for more. Whether you're a history buff or a curious newcomer, Real Vikings provides an engaging educational experience.
4. NearlyWeds With Molly & Tom
Streaming platform: All streaming platforms and YouTube
Genre: Relationships
Press play on the latest episode of NearlyWeds, and you'll feel as though you've accidentally walked into Molly Smith and Tom Clare's living room. The Love Island couple, who fell for each other in front of the nation, are now taking over from fellow reality stars Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo, planning their wedding for all to hear.
They require no time to get comfortable behind the microphone—their conversation flows effortlessly as they shift from wedding logistics to discussions about feet, farts, and "almond mums." Even if you're not planning your own wedding, their stories about planner stress and the sneaky ways the industry extracts extra cash are both relatable and amusing.
The podcast's segments keep the show moving: 'Til text do us part' features jaw-dropping, cringe-worthy stories, while 'Holding court' offers surprisingly reflective moments that encourage listeners to consider their own responses. Although the video element can be somewhat lost in audio-only format, it remains an easy, enjoyable listen. While they have big shoes to fill, NearlyWeds is messy, refreshingly honest, and perfect company for a walk or commute.
5. What's The Call?
Streaming platform: All streaming platforms
Genre: Sports
What's The Call? is a sports podcast that covers major tennis and sporting events worldwide from a female perspective. Hosted by sports and entertainment strategy consultant Theodora Petalas and Andrea Jimenez, who is completing her PhD in psychology, each episode unpacks the biggest stories in tennis, from the Australian Open to predictions for the season ahead.
Petalas and Jimenez follow tournaments and players both on and off the court to keep listeners informed. Past guests have included sports journalist Tamara Prenn, who discussed post-match drama at the Australian Open, and tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas, who shared his pre-game rituals and rediscovery of competitive joy.
This week, the hosts chat about the Indian Wells Open, with Jimenez providing on-the-ground insights from the tournament. They explore why it was an immersive experience, highlight standout matches, offer predictions, and much more. If you're looking for a female-led sports podcast that delivers sharp analysis and honest opinions, add What's The Call? to your rotation.
