Podcasts for Life: A Simple Guide to Listening & Learning for Adults 55+

Have you ever heard people talking about podcasts and wondered what all the buzz is about?
Maybe a friend mentioned a great episode… or you’ve seen the word “podcast” pop up on your phone but never clicked it.

If so, you’re not alone.

Many adults 55+ didn’t grow up with podcasts, and trying something new with technology can feel intimidating. But here’s the truth:

Podcasts are one of the easiest — and most enjoyable — ways to learn, stay inspired, and feel connected.
You can listen while walking the dog, cooking dinner, organizing a closet, or relaxing in your favorite chair. And once you learn how to press play, a whole world of stories and ideas opens up.

Let’s take it step by step.

What Is a Podcast?

A podcast is like a radio show you can listen to any time you want.
Think of it as on-demand audio. Instead of tuning in at a certain hour, you choose the topic, the episode, and the moment that works for you.

Podcasts can:

Teach you something new
Entertain you with stories
Inspire you with real-life conversations
Make you laugh
Keep you company during everyday routines

All you need is a smartphone, tablet, computer, or smart speaker.

How to Listen to a Podcast

Below is a simple, beginner-friendly guide you can follow — even if you don’t feel tech-savvy.

📱 On a Smartphone or Tablet

Turn on and unlock your device.
Open a podcast app:
- Apple Podcasts (iPhone/iPad)
- Google Podcasts (Android)
- Spotify (works on both)
Tap the Search icon (usually a magnifying glass).
Type in a topic or the name of a show.
Tap an episode, then press Play.
Adjust volume using the buttons on the side of your device.
Tap Follow or Subscribe to get new episodes automatically.
To listen without internet, tap Download (optional).

💻 On a Computer

Open your internet browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge).
Go to Spotify.com or the website of the podcast you want.
Use the search box to type in a topic.
Click Play on any episode.

🗣️ On a Smart Speaker (Alexa or Google Home)

Just use your voice!

Try saying:

“Alexa, play a podcast about aging well.”
“Hey Google, play the podcast Growing Bolder.”

Use commands like:

“Pause.”
“Volume up.”
“Skip forward.”

It doesn’t get much easier.

Great Podcasts to Try First

Here are some listener-friendly shows that speak directly to the priorities of the Retiring Boldly audience — connection, wellness, purpose, and growth:

🎧 Aging Well Podcast

Helpful conversations on health, wellness, and living vibrantly as we age.

🎧 Growing Bolder

Uplifting stories of older adults doing bold, meaningful things at every stage of life.

🎧 Better Health While Aging

Smart, practical tips on aging wisely, staying healthy, and making confident decisions.

🎧 Women in the Middle

A fun, honest look at midlife, confidence, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.

🎧 The Optimal Aging Podcast

Encouraging guidance on movement, mindset, and staying active no matter your age.

How to Choose a Podcast You’ll Enjoy

Start with an episode that’s 20–40 minutes.
Read the short episode description — it tells you what the show is about.
If you like the host’s voice and style, listen to another episode.
Ask friends, adult children, or a librarian for suggestions — they’re usually full of ideas!

Quick Troubleshooting

No sound?
✔️ Check your device’s volume or unplug earbuds.

App won’t open?
✔️ Close it and reopen, or restart your device.

Can’t find a specific show?
✔️ Try broader search terms like “health,” “friendship,” “retirement,” “wellness,” or “history.”

Start Today

Choose one episode. Press Play.
Let yourself laugh, learn, or feel inspired — all while doing something ordinary like folding laundry or sipping coffee.

You’re never too old to discover something new. And podcasts make it easier than ever.

If you’d like a simple, printable guide with step-by-step instructions, be sure to download my free PDF — it’s perfect for saving, sharing, or posting on your fridge.