Wholesome animal chat that will melt your cynicism: best podcasts of the week

This week’s podcast picks include Matt Baker’s ‘Petcast’ featuring celebrity pet stories, Dan Snow’s ‘The Rise of the Maya’ exploring ancient civilization, and ‘The Mangione Trial’ examining ‘pretty privilege’ in a true crime context. Additionally, Megan Rapinoe debuts her show ‘Why Are You Like This?’ highlighting figures who challenge the status quo, and ‘Time Travelling Queers’ re-examines historical figures through a queer lens.

• Matt Baker’s ‘Petcast’ features celebrity interviews about their pets.
• History Hit presents ‘The Rise of the Maya’ with two new episodes.
• ‘The Mangione Trial’ podcast discusses themes like ‘pretty privilege’ related to a high-profile trial.
• Megan Rapinoe hosts ‘Why Are You Like This?’, featuring influential public figures.
• ‘Time Travelling Queers’ explores historical figures with a focus on sexuality and gender.
• All featured podcasts are widely available with weekly episodes.