At Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP), we know the commute is often one of the few parts of the day you can consistently make your own. Whether you like to learn something new, dive into a good story, or just have something interesting to listen to on your commute, the right book or podcast can make all the difference. As we move into 2026, our team pulled together the titles we’ve enjoyed this year; podcasts that kept us thinking and books we couldn’t put down. We hope you find a few new favorites for the ride!
Podcasts
Huberman Lab
Host: Dr. Andrew Huberman
Recommended by: Lauren
Huberman discusses science and science-based tools for everyday life. New episodes are released every Monday and Thursday. Lauren feels that with so many perspectives and always something of value, this podcast is a workout for the brain.
Petty Crimes Podcast
Host: Cara Jane O’Sullivan & Griff Stark-Ennis
Recommended by: Mary
A comedy podcast “trying” minor social offenses, from asking for a recommendation then ordering something else to silly disputes over shared space. Funny, relatable, and perfect for a Metro ride; Mary’s favorite episode is about two families fighting over free beach chairs.
The Divided Dial
Host: Katie Thornton
Recommended by: Lauren
The Divided Dial advances media literacy by exposing the outsized influence of a handful of broadcast station owners and examining the enduring importance of radio in the media landscape. In an age dominated by social media and communications monopolies, this series offers valuable insights into the medium that started it all.
Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
Host: Conan O’Brien
Recommended by: Jake
Conan’s weekly podcast features guests from across the entertainment industry, offering conversations that are both thought provoking and humorous. The hour-long format allows for deeper, more meaningful discussions compared to his previous talk show style. Adding to the fun, Conan’s Cohosts, Matt and Sona, bring their own brand of humor, making each episode even more entertaining.
99% Invisible
Host: Roman Mars
Recommended by: Henry
Henry commends their 2024 Book Club breakdown of Robert Caro's The Power Broker (also recommended by Mary). Roman Mars and guest Elliot Kalan take on about 100 pages per episode and have many fascinating guests, including Robert Caro himself. It serves up bite-sized chunks of the 1,200-page biography of New York City’s Parks Commissioner, Robert Moses, and his outsized impact on the city's development over much of the twentieth century.
Honorable Mentions:
Shakespeare Unlimited Folger Shakespeare Library
Codeswitch Gene Denby, B.A. Parker
Breaking Points Krystal Ball, Saagar Enjeti
Books and Audiobooks
Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family
Author: Robert Kolker
Recommended by: Candice
A biography that reads like fiction because it seems unrealistic that so much could happen within one family. Candice thinks it’s great for a commute read and makes the time go by fast by getting lost in their story.
Victoria The Queen
Author: Julia Baird
Recommended by: Jacob
Since the subject matter is thoroughly explored and the book is a biography rather than a narrative, it makes for an ideal read during Metro rides. Jacob can set it aside for a while without needing to refresh his memory, yet the content feels pretty original and offers insights into aspects of Queen Victoria's life that were previously overlooked.
My Next Breath
Author: Jeremy Renner
Recommended by: Lorene
Inspirational story of the actor Jeremy Renner’s remarkable recovery from a near-fatal accident.
Throne of Glass (Series)
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Recommended by: Jen
An eight-book fantasy saga about an 18-year-old assassin who fights for her freedom and ends up battling dark forces threatening her world. Jen feels that the twists and strong characters make it such an immersive escape that is perfect for long stretches of travel. Chloe also recommends this series, especially the audiobooks.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Author: Malcolm X
Recommended by: Michael
Malcolm's autobiography details his childhood, crime years, imprisonment, and conversion to Islam, along with his advocacy for basic human rights on his own terms. For Michael, it exemplifies a man who refused to let anything stop his development.
The Power Broker
Author: Robert Caro
Recommended by: Mary
A monumental biography of Robert Moses, whose influence shaped modern New York. Brilliantly written and meticulously researched. If the five-pound paperback is too much to lug around, Mary recommends the audiobook as an excellent alternative.
Honorable Mentions:
Killed by a Traffic Engineer Wes Marshall
The Hunting Party, The Paris Apartment Lucy Foyle
Closing Thoughts
We hope this list helps you get even more out of your commute. Whether it means learning something new, getting lost in a story, or just finding a podcast that makes the trip go by faster.
At ATP, we’re always looking for ways to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. To learn more about our services and how we can help improve your commute, visit our website or get in touch with our team today!
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners