We are the loneliest planet on Earth. Though we are more connected than ever, many of us feel hollow inside. How come we are so lonely? The always-on culture and increasing use of technology play a part. We are also, increasingly, less engaged with the people who matter in our lives.

Like air, or water, belongingness, love, intimacy and friendship — otherwise known as personal connections — can be a great source of joy in our lives. But where to go for something genuine? Where to find a meaningful interaction, an authentic conversation? Many of us have suspected that all those people on Facebook and all our followers on Twitter, won’t take our call in the middle of a crisis. And most of us understand that it’s impossible to connect with a device — no matter how many times we click and swipe.

But it is possible, and worthwhile, to connect with someone who is speaking to you about something that matters to the two of you, perhaps to thousands of you.

There’s a reason there are 900,000+ podcasts waiting to be downloaded. There’s a reason we can’t wait to hear the next episode. There’s something very humanizing about a true voice speaking into our ears. At a time when much that is wired, mechanized and optimized is aimed at avoiding, or bypassing the human, listening to people with dreams, problems and singular ideas, sounds revolutionary.

Whether you want to stop tossing and turning at night, manage your anxiety, or have an intimate talk with a friend on tough emotional issues, chances are high there’s a podcast on the subject. And while a podcast is not a substitute for a friend or a therapist, the realization that no one has it figured out, that someone else is out there, is surviving (and possibly thriving), can be a lifeline.

Here are 5 podcasts that our team at BurstMarketing found honest and relatable on multiple fronts. There’s no need to struggle silently. These podcasts are helpful reminders that you are not alone.

For insomnia — SLEEP WITH ME
Feeling alone at night? Worries keeping you up? Want someone to tell you a bedtime story? Meet Drew Ackerman, creator and host of Sleep With Me. Drew’s podcast was inspired by late-night comedy radio, which was the only thing that helped him fall asleep. With more than 70 million downloads and 650 episodes, you are sure to catch some zzz with Drew. For starters, his . . . voice is soooo . . . lull ll i i n gg . . , I’m falling aslee. . .

For friendship — CONAN O’BRIEN NEEDS A FRIEND
In need of some friends who make you laugh? After 25 years of being a Late Night TV host and comedy writer, Conan realized that despite thousands of interviews, he has never made a real and lasting friendship with any of his guests. Or so he says. He started a podcast to do just that. Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend is a weekly opportunity for Conan to hang out with the people he enjoys most — such as Dana Carvey, Tina Fey and Will Ferrell — and perhaps find some real friendship along the way. His insightful and intimate interviews on the joys, fears and hard work of comedy actually make you feel like you are pals with his guests, too.

For anxiety — THE HARDCORE SELF HELP PODCAST
You can take you life back from anxiety. Psychologist, and host of The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff is ready to answer your questions about anxiety, depression, relationships, perfectionism, PTSD, eating disorders, and other thorny topics. He goes live each Thursday. So you can bank on a free weekly appointment with Dr. Duff.

For making a major life change — WHAT IT TAKES
Making a major life change can be both exciting and stressful. Often both at the same time. The good news? We’ve all waded through new territory and come out on the other side. That’s what makes What It Takes so relatable. This podcast shares inspired stories of perseverance from some of the most famous visionaries and leaders of all time; people who have faced incredible obstacles and made it.

For honest talk about tough issues — TERRIBLE, THANKS FOR ASKING
You know how when someone asks “How are you doing?” you answer, “Fine,” so everyone can go on with their day? Well, if you’re looking for honest answers, or to dive ferociously into subjects many people won’t touch, thenTerrible, Thanks For Asking might be for you. This is the place where host Nora McInerny asks real people to share their complex feelings — honestly.

As BurstMarketing’s Chief Content Manager, Marisol guides the content strategy for your podcasts and develops engaging narratives that lead to audience growth. With more than twelve years of experience as a writer and producer, Marisol has created award-winning content for e-zines, magazines, videos and podcasts. As a former news reporter, she’s skilled in using storytelling to engage audiences.