Pick of the week: Cocaine & Rhinestones, and American History Tellers

Cocaine & Rhinestones: The History of Country Music Podcast

Within this decadently titled podcast lies a brilliant encyclopedia of country music, which makes the genre accessible even if you’ve never set foot in a cowboy boot. The tale of why Loretta Lynn was considered controversial enough to ban, why Wynonna Judd is so authentic and Bobbie Gentry’s back story are among the most fascinating episodes. Saddle up for a wild ride packed with unfamiliar stories and knowing asides from host Tyler Mahan Coe. HV

American History Tellers Podcast



Have you wondered what it’s like when the FBI knock on your door? This and more is examined in the deepest dive into the cold war imaginable. Sprawling over 50 years, American History Tellers offers a comprehensive (and undeniably timely) insight into the lesser-known aspects of US-Russian relations. From how jazz helped shape America’s positive image throughout the world to Ronald Reagan’s ramped-up views on “the Evil Empire”, it’s a podcast in which it is easy to get lost. HV

Your picks: a long walk, Spanish soundscapes and parenting tips



Bruce Hopkins Photograph: RNZ/Priscilla Northe/Striped Trees Productions.

The Long Way Home

From Cape Reinga in the far north of New Zealand, Bruce Hopkins is going the long way home to the far south, where he was raised as a fourth-generation Stewart Islander. The ex-crayfisherman, ex-modern dance exponent, and Lord of the Rings actor (he playys Gamling), is walking the length of New Zealand on the 3,000-kilometre Te Araroa trail. The first two podcasts are highly personal. Grandchildren question why: to understand his country, to rise to a physical challenge, to stir their interest, but there’s more. En route, in the salt haze of the west coast surf there are tough memories of fishing boat danger off these same shores. We learn that to assuage the heartbreak of losing his brother two years past, and to seek peace with his father, he’s carrying south a phial of their ashes. Bruce’s catchcry is whenua (the land) whakapapa (the lineage) and whanau (the wider Hopkins family). Expect a fascinating journey, with weekly progress reports of Kiwi encounters and trail insights. Recommended by Geoff Chapple – Te Araroa founder.

Mike Randolph captures the sounds of Malaga’s streets and markets Photograph: HANDOUT

Spain by Mike Randolph



I’m a travel nut but the other travel podcasts can focus too much on the ins and outs of travelling. Here Mike Randolph’s immersive “soundscapes” (audio recordings that capture the street sounds of Malaga) makes you feel like you are travelling with him. It truly gives you a feeling that you have been magically transported to Madrid or Malaga or wherever Mike is travelling. It’s like listening in 3D sound. It is amazing how much you feel like you’re there, like travelling to Spain without having to leave home. Recommend by Adrienne McNicholas

Are We There Yet?

Are We There Yet? by Katy Gosset is a brilliant series on the pitfalls of parenting. The episodes are bitesize and easily digestible, filled with useful advice and commentary from parents. The How to Avoid Dinner Table Dramas episode in particular resonated and provided me with some handy tips to use with our fussy 5-year-old. This refreshing series is relevant for all parents as it describes every day issues experienced by the modern day family without ever being overbearing. Great journalism and the length of the podcasts means busy parents can easily fit them into their schedules. Recommended by Irena Smith

Guardian pick: a story of persistence and dark chocolate

Jo Fairley, founder of Green & Black’s and Sahar Freemantle, founder of Sahar Millinery Photograph: Paul Grace/The Guardian

Meet the Mentors

Meet the Mentor brings together two entrepreneurs – one who is already a success story and one who is just starting off with their business ventures. Here Jo Fairley discusses her dark chocolate company Green & Black’s and advises budding milliner Sahar Freemantle. Together they discuss various elements that can help and hinder new businesses. It’s interesting to hear two business owners, who are selling totally different products, bounce ideas off each other. Recommended by Danielle Stephens.

If you’ve got a podcast that you love, send your recommendations to rowan.slaney@theguardian.com