It takes a truly fantastic episode to make it onto the Fifth Umpire’s recommendation list because, as a rule, most things we listen to suck. Boo hoo for us.

However, thankfully, these most definitely don’t… 

No.5

A Millennial Mind – “I Was Wrong: Teaching Girls Bravery Over Perfection”

Where has this podcast been hiding? It’s like a (more valuable) Diary of a CEO. Dear [host] Shivani Pau, tone down the dramatic music at the start and you have a gem on your hands. A star in the making? 

No.4

As the Season Turns – “Found Sound for July”

Sod the ‘D-list-celebs-chatting-about-how-great-they-are’ format, this podcast shows another, more creative way to podcast. Settle down in a comfy chair and breath. Everything’s going to be OK. FYI – this is a show created by a brand, which this reviewer thinks makes it even more impressive.  

No.3

The Rise and Fall of… Oasis – “Bring It On Down… The Fight on The Ferry”

Nice work BBC 6 Music. This works in spite of Steve Lermac [send of sentence]. For anyone who grew up in the 9Ts, this transports you right back to the (glory) days of Britpop with key interviews and contains an acceptable level of references to Bonehead. 

No.2

The Infinite Monkey Cage – “The Wonder of Trees”

This episode is recorded at the Royal Institution and has 2 things which I love: Judi Dench and Trees. ‘Nuff said. 

No.1

99% Invisible – A River Runs Through Los Angeles

Sans Roman Mars but luckily avec actor Gillian Jacobs. It’s kinda fun, quirky and interesting, exactly what you’d expect from 99% Invisible. Lovely stuff.