Search Engine

PJ has a gift in turning seemingly random questions/topics into timely, interesting, and frequently heartfelt stories. Awesome content

I listened to Reply All for years and generally enjoy PJ. Is he a little insufferable in an “NPR voice” way? Yes. But I mostly have fun listening to this podcast. That said, this week’s episode about working versus having a family left me cold. To not acknowledge the POV of a mother/primary caretaker felt really shortsighted and frankly exclusionary. This show has always been a little navel gazey, but this episode felt a bit disgusting. I get that PJ was working some personal stuff out that created additional bias, but this is a huge issue in the US that deserves a more thorough approach. I’ll probably listen to future episodes, but this one was a real doozy and made me view the host in a less flattering light. I suggest hosting a follow up episode that explores the struggles of childcare and what having a child means for women in the workforce, even in 2025.

Give it a shot, even if you didn’t like “Reply All.” I didn’t, but Search Engine is in my top 3. I can’t wait for the next episode. It’s intelligent but approachable. Interesting topics. It’s something you can share with people you struggle to find entertainment to enjoy together. It’s fun and casual but still professional and in-depth. If you like to just get the gist of something while you do dishes or walk the dog, this is a good podcast for you. If you like to get all the facts and really think about it, there’s plenty for you to sink your teeth into. I’ve listened to most episodes more than once, just to make sure I absorb it all. I love it so much I pay for it.

You know what they say: “Turn your passion into a job and you’ll never be able to tell if you’re working or not for the rest of your life.”