Estonia's interest in podcasts — or “audio blogging” as it was once called — is growing, too. Aparaadio Podcastifestival, Estonia's first podcast festival, happened in Tartu in November 2020. This event was created by Helena Eglit and Carlotta Põdra with the desire to “physically gather people's favourite programs and presenters in one place and to develop Estonian podcast culture through it.” As Põdra said in an interview with Müürileht, the Estonian podcast ecosystem is still growing. In particular, there is a “lack of podcasts for mental health, well-being and awareness.” By promoting home-grown podcasting, the founders also wanted to contribute to the development of Estonian-language culture.
The festival was held at Aparaaditehas (a former factory of “secret submarine parts” and “non-functioning umbrellas”). Usually housing four restaurants, two galleries, office spaces, the Müürilille flea market, and more, the complex became a stage that transported voices usually heard through headphones out in front of an audience.
Whether you are cooking at home, commuting, exercising, or even sitting on a hammock under the sun, here are some podcasts you can access in Estonian. All kinds of subjects are available, but here are four that you can choose from to get started:
Investeerimisklubi (“The Investment Club” — https://soundcloud.com/investeerimisklubi ):
Investeerimisklubi has given out a lot of regular, free content through their podcast, hosted by Marko Oolo and Markus Roogna. An extension of one of Estonia's investor organizations, they share knowledge on topics including how to prepare an investment portfolio for a child, where minimalism and investment meet, and the first steps to take as a real estate investor.
Trennijutud (“Training stories”— https://soundcloud.com/trennijutud ):
Trennijutud is a health and fitness podcast that started at the end of 2020, and it appears that they will continue into the new year and beyond. The show's host Maris Järva talks with health science and athletics experts and supplies practical advice, ranging from the importance of magnesium in our bodies, to choosing the best possible clothing and gear for your exercise plans.
MULL Podcast ( “Bubble Podcast” https://open.spotify.com/show/2mNIPBFQG8LbeyjrZqLk60 ):
Among the top five most popular podcasts in Estonia, Evelin Veermets hosts this encouraging podcast about entrepreneurship, life, self-development, and goals as related through the experiences of female guests who talk on her program. Past episodes include one with the theme Ole oma otsustega rahul! (“Be at peace with your decisions”).
Written by Vincent Teetsov, Toronto
