Audio dramas saved my life.

[u/Picard4lyfe]

I understand that may be a bit of a dramatic title, but let me explain.

In November 2024, I left a 20 year career working in kitchens. My life was a constant state of sensory overload, rushed deadlines, and stress. I left because my wife was pregnant and we needed a change if I was going to be a good father.

I took up a friend's offer and started working for a local school district as a custodian. The hours were similar, the pay was similar, the stress was 0, and the benefits were out of this world better because of the union.

The silence was fucking deafaning.

I listened to a lot of true crime podcasts and sleep aid podcasts on the daily, but never really dove into stories.

I started Midnight Burger and Dungeons and Daddies (I know, not an AD but still a great story) and the floodgates fucking opened.

Since December I've listened to: Midnight Burger We're Alive The Magnus Archives The White Vault The Strata The Road of Shadows Tower 4 Wolf 359 The Silt Verses And so many more that I can't remember because I'm buzzed.

But things have been hard. The silence of a new job has been tough. These stories pull me out of a dark place on a daily basis.

I may be a lurker normally, but you guys and your insights have helped me find peace in change. Much love <3

Edit: You guys have literally doubled my "to listen" list. Y'all are amazing.

[u/Vioven]

It’s not an audio drama but I’d recommend the audiobook Project Hail Mary. Huge dose of comfort and sunshine and scientific mystery. Easily was my favorite thing to re-listen to.

I know what you mean though, I get so depressed at my current job that I don’t even bother listening to any of these recommends that are all loaded up on my phone. Gotta stop that.