Podcasts & Books

Cashing in your AL and going on vacay might seem tempting, but these tips will help your craft a healthy foundation for dealing with burnout in the long run. 

We share tips on how to implement achievable goals, ahead of Reason Season with Rob and Lachlan from Funny Business. 

As part of the Evenings module for Reason Season, these our fave reads to unwind before bed to reap all of those relaxing rewards.

Join us for Reason Season to craft healthy daily habits and routines.

Enter the SBS Emerging Writers' Competition and you could win $5,000.

We've tried to hit a range of genres to please every ear and offer a listen for every mood. 

Autobiographies are a window into the soul and sometimes they are so powerful they can change the reader, so and here are our top picks of the 10 you should read at least once in your life.

Sydney chef Josh Niland is one-of-a-kind and a real national treasure. His book, The Whole Fish Cookbook just won the super-prestigious James Beard Foundation Book of the Year Award. 

The Waste Collective is a podcast that’s been created to dig deeper on the issue of sustainability at music festivals: the science, psychology and ecology behind what needs to happen for festivals to go from low impact, to no impact.

Brace yourself for a trivia night practically made for you.

Kinokuniya is celebrating Free Comic Book Day by giviing a massive 13,000 copies away for free. 

Eyes starting to shrivel up? Might be time to ditch the screens and try something a bit more...analogue. We’ve got some crackerjack new release books in November.

The story of infamous backpacker murderer Ivan Milat.

Things are just getting worse in the Republic of Gilead.

Hate deep house music? Maybe you just never listened to it the right way.

If sleeping has become more chore than snore, it’s time you plugged in to switch off; these are the best slow lit podcast to help you hit the hay.

Like with anything entertainment-related, diving into the podcasting universe can take you on an information overload trip if you don't know where to start. Luckily we’re here to tell you what to plug into your ear holes and what to leave out of your binge-listening sessions as you hide from your extended family this holiday season.

Chris Dawson has been arrested, and it’s all getting very real. 

We've already popped it on our reading list.

Got an entertainment buff you need to please? From retro arcade games to stylish sound systems, we’ve got something that will have them cancelling all their plans for 2019.

Obviously we've included the one about Lyn Dawson ie. the unsolved murder across the news.

"I've listened to too many podcasts" said no one ever.

​Want to skip the queues and snag a private dining room at Sydney’s Chin Chin? How about a year’s free yoga in Brisbane? Maybe a private session at Bass & Flinders mixing you own signature gin? Well, they’re all up for grabs.

All your Sunday inspo wrapped into one handly lil' package.

The team spent an entire year within the criminal courts in Cleveland so you'll get to hear everything that happened on the inside.

All your Sunday inspo wrapped into one handly lil' package.

​We’re kicking off a new Book Club series today, so settle down and get comfy. Maybe pop the kettle on. Every month we’ll be checking out a handful of hyped new releases in the literary world, and September is looking like a bumper month. We’ve got J.K. Rowling’s new thriller, a Homeric saga from Pat Barker, and Lisa Brennan-Jobs’ scathing biography of her late dad, Steve. (You know Steve, right?)

The recent success of shows like Call the Midwife, The Crown and good ol’ Downton Abbey proves that we all love a cheeky bit of historical fiction. Nothing captures the imagination like the secret dramas of the English court or the glitz and the glamour of the 1920’s. While a TV show is all well and good, actually reading a piece of historical fiction just takes things to a whole new level, letting you completely immerse yourself in a whole new world.

Now that the mercury has plummeted through the floor and triggered a mass deficit of electric blankets at Harvey Norman, the only thing left to do is snuggle up with a good book and a hot Milo (that’s one part milk, 6 parts Milo, 9 parts marshmallow). 

It came out two days ago and we’re already hooked.

Ready for it.

Let's be honest, your commute to and from work is unlikely to be an exciting time. You're just getting from point A—B and trying to avoid that guy with the serious coffee breath in the process. Fortunately, our Commuters' Guide To Podcasts is here with your solution, offering you bountiful recommendations to escape the monotony of that dreaded train trip. And all tailored down to the length of your commute.

While there’s no quick fix to turning your life into a Disney movie, there’s something to be said for a good self-help book. Whether you’re struggling with money, motivation, relationships or just keeping your room tidy, here are some of our favourite books to help instantly make your life better: 

Shape, change and challenge your everyday life.

Yep, a new Game of Thrones book is coming.

Fire up those downloads and let the LOLs run wild with the funniest podcasts out.

Let Snoop Dogg catch you up on all things pop culture.

John Green once wrote great books help you understand and they help you feel understood. Naturally, reading is a subjective process, but whether it’s learning how to live your best life, facing adversity to striving for success, here are ten books that will change the way you think.

​All right, you true crime pervs. We’re back for another month of watching shows about real things happening to real people in real time. And there’s plenty on the menu. We’ve got a couple of golden oldies (Man on Wire, Amy) and brand new docos on everything from Nora Ephron to guys collecting coral.

Here’s our round-up of the latest wave of thrillers you won’t be about to put down.

​We’re currently knee deep in awards seasons, but while everyone’s going mental for the latest film to hit the big screen, there’s plenty to watch on the small screen from the comfort of your couch as well. And the best part is, nobody is judging your snack choices at home.

They say truth is stranger than fiction, but those people probably never watched Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone. Nonetheless, there are a stack of excellent docos around right now. Maybe it’s the whole true crime trend, or the fact the world is slowly melting, but people seem to care more about real stuff now. That’ probably a good thing.   

Even though us reading enthusiasts will often agree how good the movie was whilst secretly agreeing with ourselves that the book was better, we could not be excited.

Put down that damn Jodi Picoult novel because we’ve dug up the best Aussie true crime books on the market just in time for Christmas, and Jodi’s latest heartbreaking courtroom drama is going to have to wait. Hours of bookshop research have told us that Australia is home to some pretty insane, real-life murder mysteries, and paired with a hot cup of tea and a few choccie bikkies, they make for a delicious night in this festive season.

As we wave goodbye to another year in television, we look ahead to 2018 and all the Sundays we’ll spend in bed on Netflix, eating packets of Clinkers with the curtains drawn. Some of the most notable revivals of 2017 were Will & Grace, Prison Break, Twin Peaks and That’s So Raven (look it up, that shit happened), and in 2018 we welcome some even juicier revivals on our screens.

If you’re anything like us you’ve no doubt worked your way through every true crime podcast there is by now, and you’re on an endless search to fill the void left by Serial, Shit Town, and Dirty John.

While we struggle through this complete lull in reality TV, we’ve been buoyed by the news today that there’s about to be a tell-all Bachelor book hit the market—and it’s been penned by the most recent Bachelor villain.

If you've not yet gotten into podcasts (seriously, what have you been doing?), this holiday season is the perfect opportunity to come over to the enlightened side. Way less effort than reading a book (read: trashy mag) or watching Netflix (because series binging requires a surprising amount of effort), podcasts also have the added benefit of being insanely entertaining and often educational at the same time—so it's wins all round.

Christmas is officially 7 days away.

Challenge accepted.

You can thank us later.

Ditch that pesky social life and curl up with a good book or unhealthily addictive TV series. After all, Netflix isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle choice.

We are ready. 

It’s true, guys. Triple J just announced that they’re moving the Hottest 100 countdown to a less controversial date.

Ditch that pesky social life and curl up with a good book or unhealthily addictive TV series. After all, Netflix isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle choice.

Goodbye French teachers everywhere.

Ditch that pesky social life and curl up with a good book or unhealthily addictive TV series. After all, Netflix isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle choice.

You’re welcome.

Ditch that pesky social life and curl up with a good book or unhealthily addictive TV series. After all, Netflix isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle choice.

Keep your turntables in full swing by picking up some warm-toned vinyl. Whether you’re a collector, or simply feeling a touch nostalgic, here are Sydney’s 7 best vinyl stores.

We’re well and truly in winter-mode, so it’s the perfect time to ditch that pesky social life and curl up with a good book or unhealthily addictive TV series.

Podcasts are like videos, but for people who like to actually get shit done while learning new things or being entertained. 

Just putting it out there—book clubs are officially cool. And no, we don’t mean discussing Wuthering Heights with a group of middle-aged mums over egg sandwiches. You’ll be pleased to know you won’t even have to put on pants or leave the comforting confines of your bed, for these clubs. Whether you want to delve into an easy page-turner or are keen to expand you mind with a more challenging read, these clubs have got you covered for both books and great post-read convos. Our only regret—that there aren’t enough hours in the day to join all 10.  

Netflix isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifestyle choice.

We’re heading into the cooler months, which means only two things: hot milos and frayed paperbacks. And accidentally dropping your housemate’s copy of Jodi Picoult’s Small Great Things in the bath. So, to save you all time you could otherwise we spending heaping tablespoons of Milo into your mouth mug, we’ve put together a list of this season’s best page-turners.

Here are 10 awesome books coming to life on the big screen in 2017.

Who didn’t have a crush on Heath Ledger when they were 15?

From Newtown, through to Bondi Beach and out to Liverpool, Sydney is covered in glorious street art that makes us swoon.

Serial’s new podcast, S-Town is here, and they’ve released all of the episodes in one drop because they know as well as we do that everything is better when binged. 

Who else is done with adulting?

There’s a whole side to Andy Warhol you never knew existed and it’s about time you found it out.

If anything’s going to tear us away from our UberEats addiction, it’s the allure of a well-known face performing behind the pans. We’re suckers for a good celeb cook book—who knew they could cut veggies like us mere mortals?

Ah summer! You are here and we never, ever, ever want to let you go!

​Summer, the perfect time to head outdoors stay indoors, with remote in hand, keeping cool in the air-conditioning from the comfort of your couch. Amiright?

For stationary geeks like us, shopping for a diary is one of the mightiest of pleasures that comes when the clock strikes the New Year, so we’ve done you a solid and rounded up some of the best out there. Time to show 2018 who’s boss, and organise the hell outta it!

It’s no wonder mojitos are the most popular cocktail of summer, they’re just so darn refreshing. Made with white rum, lime, mint and soda water, they’re crisp and zesty—perfect to see you and your mates through the hottest of summer days.

From Christmas presents under $50 that don’t suck, to luxe AF gifts, this is the only gift guide you need this holiday season.

The silly season in Sydney means one thing— markets

​We owe a lot to podcasts—they make our morning commute bearable, educate us on how not to be murdered, provide loads of comic relief and generally make us better humans. What on earth did we do without them? Listen to the radio? Thank god those days are over (soz Kyle and Jackie O).

Dulwich Hill, a suburb with a strong Greek and Turkish influence. 

Here are our picks for best dressed at this year's Melbourne Cup in Sydney.

Let’s kick this festive season off with a bang, with a free tour from The Rubens.

As we approach the last weekend of July, a celebration is in order! We are moving into the second half of the year, and the second half of winter, which means hibernation is ending and exciting things are starting to happen. 

This weekend, Dear Pluto is popping up at 107 Projects for a mini version of their usual quarterly Pop Up Vintage markets.

Surely there’s something wrong with your life if tidying up is going to make it better. Tidying is a life necessity, a chore, a grind.

We've really taken one for the team this month and included a few bits and pieces that won't break the bank, and WILL see you enjoying a night in on the couch. Stay warm, peeps. And remember, saving is for boring people. 

The list for everything you should have done in our fair city.

We’ve partnered with Bose to bring you the summer playlists from some of Australia’s coolest kids: the sisters behind Sydney fashion label Macgraw, world beating electronica band mates Atlas Bound, and kick ass Judo Black Belt, Diego Barreto.

Success is a mindset; if you want it, you have to work for it.

This month Anna May, our Sydney Senior Content Marketing Executive, shares what’s on her radar.

This month Josh Berg, our Sydney marketing specialist, shares what’s on his radar.

Breakfast in Sydney is something we take seriously here. We also love a pop-up. Here's an event that combines the two of them!

This month Daniel Harris, our Business Development Manager and resident health guy, shares what he’s loving this month. From brogues to a certain show about Vikings to self-improvement books, here’s what’s on his radar.

From some of Australia’s best restaurants and bars that don’t require a reservation, to booking a hotel on a whim (we love Booking.com’s new Booking Now app for this!), The Urban List editors in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have put together the ultimate itineraries in and around our fair cities to help you be spontaneous wherever you go.

You never know what you’re going to find, and that’s half the fun of Newtown. In this quirky part of town lie some of Sydney’s best bars, cafes and restaurants… Not to mention shopping too!

This month Zo Zhou, one of our Sydney Communications Executives shares what she’s lusting after. From a luscious silk tee to leather camera-ware, here’s what’s testing her restraint right now.

This little piggy may have gone to market, but don’t worry, you haven’t been left behind! We’ll have you surrounded with fresh food stalls, vintage finds, and aromatic flavours at these Sydney markets, so you can stock up on the goods before you wee, wee, wee, wee, all the way home.

To make you feel a little better about winter, we have gathered a list of totally cool things to do in Sydney (and take photos of… Take THAT, vacationists!) to make even your jetsetting friends jealous. 

This month Anna May, one of our Sydney Communications Executives and resident Harry Potter nerd, shares what she’s loving. From cosy blankets to luxe jewels and blenders, here’s what’s on her radar.

Each month one member of The Urban List team will be sharing their current obsessions, and—shock—not all of it’s edible! This month, Urban List Content Director, Kim Barnard shares her new favourite everythings: from the best burger, to her new Apple watch, here’s what on her radar.

It may be cooling down but that’s no excuse not to roam. Turkish gozleme plus a whole host of fresh produce, flowers and crafts await at these Sydney markets!

As much we love our digital day jobs, we’re big fans of occasionally ditching the desktop in favour of some old-school pen-and-paper action. But finding a stationery line that’s worth your chicken scratch is a challenge in itself—this is one occasion when Office Works just isn’t going to cut it. 

The year is ending, the holidays are approaching, that sun drenched deck chair is calling and distant Aunt Mildred has sweetly given you a book voucher for Christmas. So which page-turner will you choose?

Whether you’re globetrotting or road tripping, heading to the tropics, the slopes or simply up the coast, we’ve taken the stress and guess work out of packing and done it for you!

From super cool swimmers and lightweight towels, to beach umbrellas and more, we’ve hunted down the best of the best beach bag essentials for summer.

So your office is doing a Kris Kringle, or perhaps you have spent a bit too much on Christmas presents for yourself (because you’re worth it). Either way, these Christmas gift ideas will impress AND leave you with dollars to spare.

These beautiful warm spring days means that weekends indoors are becoming a distant memory. We’ve compiled a list, highlighting the best gourmet goodies, vintage steals and second-hand trinkets our vibrant city has to offer.

If we know anything about you, Listers, it’s that you’re constantly on the lookout for things to do – and boy do we have a treat for you!

What better way to while away a Sunday afternoon with good food, good drinks and good friends? Enter Long Lunch Sundays at Central, The Living Mall Sydney where you can while away a sunny afternoon in style.

Food fanatics and design buffs are already well aware of Cook Republic's Sneh Roy. The winner of Best Australian Blog 2013, Best Lifestyle Blog 2013 and author of the beautiful cookbook Tasty Express, Sneh is a force to be reckoned with.

DJ, fashion designer, Instagram queen, and all-round fun person, GG Magree lets us in on her favourite things to do in Sydney.

The huge number of fantastic restaurants, bars and boutiques opening in Manly has turned this gorgeous beachside suburb into a must-visit destination for Sydneysiders living on “the other side” of the bridge. Here’s where to head out in Manly.

Folks, we can see the light at the end of this long, wintery tunnel, but, until we get there, let's enjoy the best of what Sydney has to offer this month.

Winter is an excuse to eat, drink, and shop yourself silly, so get on out and discover the best that our glistening city has to offer. Here’s a list of what’s new if you’re on the lookout for things to do in Sydney this month!

Some Sydneysiders dread the rain, but for any self-proclaimed bookworm this wintery weather means just one thing: guilt-free nights, curled up on the couch indulging in a literary delight.

Rise early, pack your eco-bags, and prepare to shop! It’s time to go to market… Here is our guide to the best markets in Sydney.

We catch up with style and synth guru Touch Sensitive, aka Michael Di Francesco. A man of many musical and sartorial talents, Michael fills us in on the man behind the Memorymoog. 

In its 61st year the Sydney Film Festival is back in all its visceral glory. We give you the first 32 films to be released, with 180 to be screened in total, including features, animation, documentaries and premieres. Read on for the exciting line up.

Whether you prefer sightseeing or shopping, live music or museums, we’re here to guide you through the places where New Yorkers eat, drink and play—an insider’s guide to the city that never sleeps.  

If you're struggling to find a great gift for your loved one this Valentine's Day, there's no need to fret—we've sourced a collection of fun, beautiful and unique prod