I've spent a decent amount of time this fall in the car on a handful of road trips, some with kiddos and some without. While music is my mainstay, I'm also a huge fan of podcasts to pass the time. Whether I'm on the road, cooking, putting together designs in the studio, or washing dishes, here are a few favorites of late:

- The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel - one for the kids (but I'm a fan, too), it's a serialized story about a smart and curious student and his group of friends as they disappear, one at a time

- Sincerely, X - a TED talk given anonymously on air rather than on stage, because the nature of their story requires that their identity be withheld 

- Revisionist History - by Malcolm Gladwell, whose humor and insight is endlessly entertaining and always interesting

- Homecoming - Obsessed. A story told in a way unlike any I've ever heard before. Add Catherine Keener, and I was sold. David Schwimmer is an incredibly talented surprise in this one, too.

- On Being with Krista Tippett - I've been listening to this show for years, often on early-morning drives to flea markets with nothing but NPR and coffee to keep me going. I adore the wisdom, honesty, and heart-driven thought in every single interview.

- Invisibilia - About the forces at work in life that we can't see, I often think for a long time after listening to this one. Fascinating, really.

-Wow in the World - another one for kiddos, but I learn SO much from these. Because my 8 am biology class in college just didn't stick.

- The Lively Show - A favorite for years. I'm totally digging her take on "alignment before action," offering ways to find a happier, more fulfilling life that works for each of us.

- This American Life - because, well, it's awesome.

- Anna Faris is Unqualified - In full disclosure, I've not yet listened to this one, but it's on my list. Keep you posted.