Self-realised as a popular go-to for listeners needing that soothing vocal tone and simplicity of concept to calm them into a deep sleep, the Where’s Waldo? Audiobook Podcast is surprisingly effective, and actually offers exactly the content you might expect from such a title.
Given that the original Where’s Waldo? books are largely if not exclusively picture-based, despite the presence of the TV show of the same name, the audiobook had no choice but to be quite literally the musings of a man, softly spoken, as he attempts to seek out Waldo in a plethora of different settings.
Though this may seem quite unusual, it’s strangely enjoyable to listen through – gentle music backing the quiet, nearly whispered observations of our host Andrew, along with the occasional personal reflection or story to help strengthen the connection between speaker and audience.
While episode one, which first emerged two years ago, provided exactly the unedited approach of a man searching for Waldo and recording his attempt, more recent episodes seem somewhat more conceptually unlimited, perhaps brighter and mildly more energetic. They still maintain, however, the essence of the original show, which has come to draw in thousands of monthly listeners. It’s just that now, we’re guided by a twist of character and playful, soothing discussion, to let the show naturally continue to appeal.
In such a fast-paced, attention-seeking world, there’s something effortlessly anxiety reducing about the Where’s Waldo? Audiobook Podcast. Consider Anvil Factory but also Robots, which features additional guest speakers for a more inclusive and unexpected conversational flow, and the more individual storytelling and revelations of About and Season 2, as worthy starting points.
Where’s Waldo at the Anvil Factory (shooting bullets at fire) is also a great example of the evolution of the Where’s Waldo? Audiobook Podcast, and a personal favourite episode. Lo-fi musical warmth and quirky but ever calming randomness ensues, descriptive images and unexpectedly captivating scenes and details, as we hear the ASMR-style musings and microphone bumps of a real-time, intimate audio recording.
Confidently unlike anything else you’re likely to stumble upon, professionally captured but also unconcerned with industry expectation or volume, the Where’s Waldo? Audiobook Podcast is a pleasure to know about, to let fill the space around you, and to tune into whenever the weight of the world gets a little overbearing.
“Sometimes it’s ok to just find contentment in the present moment. That’s where we find true happiness. It’s not in some grand pursuit of purpose, but just in appreciating the little things, the absurdities.”
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