There are three reasons to go on “The Bachelor” or “The Bachelorette” — to find love, to get an invite to “Bachelor in Paradise” or to become a full-time social media influencer. This last motivation is what led to the now ubiquitous “Bachelor” contestant-to-podcaster pipeline.
Since the first major "Bachelor" alum podcast premiered in 2017, the market has become saturated with an overwhelming number of similar podcasts on topics including the television show itself, dating in general and even the medical field. The podcasting trend has become so big that the franchise itself had to get in on the action, creating podcasts that feature enticing combinations of the beloved C-list reality stars.
Overwhelmed by the range of choices but want to hear what the alumni of Bachelor Nation have to say? These recommendations are the perfect place to start for every type of podcast listener.
The Trendsetter: “Off the Vine with Kaitlin Bristow”
Former Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristow, who also currently co-hosts “The Bachelorette,” was known for her bold personality and sense of humor on the show, so she was the perfect person to bring the podcasting trend to the "Bachelor" world. Named after her love of wine, the podcast delivers honesty and laughs twice a week as Kaitlyn interviews guests ranging from fellow “Bachelor” contestants to NSYNC star Joey Fatone.
Must-listen episode: “Kaitlyn & Jason: The BIG one (like real BIG)” is a one-of-a-kind episode that gives listeners an inside peek into Kaitlyn’s real-life engagement.
The Most Heart: “Scrubbing in with Becca Tilley and Tanya Rad”
A two-time People’s Choice Award-winning podcast — beating out Oprah with the help of their loyal fanbase — “Scrubbing in with Becca Tilley and Tanya Rad” is a sweet and compelling podcast covering a wide variety of pop culture topics. They occasionally discuss the details of the latest “Grey’s Anatomy” episode — the show’s namesake — and they often host a variety of special guests for interviews.
The greatest strength of the podcast is listening to the hosts chat about their lives. That’s because the hosts, Becca Tilley from Chris Soules’ season and Tanya Rad from Ben Higgins’ season, have such a lovable dynamic. Tilley and Rad, who is also the co-host of "On The Air with Ryan Seacrest," are best friends in real life. Often funny and always relatable, it’s a nice lighthearted podcast that feels like chatting with friends.
Must-listen episode: “Ep. 6 ‘Life Support’” is Becca and Tanya at their best and features them hilariously crafting a text to send to Tanya’s new love interest.
For “Bachelor” Recaps:
“The Ben and Ashley I Almost Famous Podcast”
Former Bachelor Ben Higgins and Ashley Iaconetti — a teary-eyed former contestant who met her husband on “Bachelor in Paradise” — team up to host this show interviewing contestants and recapping the franchise’s latest episodes.
“The Viall Files”
Nick Viall — the two time “The Bachelorette” contestant, one time “Bachelor in Paradise'' contestant and the Bachelor himself — hosts a podcast that discusses both “Bachelor” franchise recaps and listeners' problems. Sprinkling a dose of his signature harsh truths — which he became known for during his stint on “Bachelor in Paradise” — he lends an honest ear to listeners.
“Bachelor Happy Hour”
Becca Kufrin brings her experience as the Bachelorette to the table in this “Bachelor Nation” network podcast. As the official recap show of the franchise, it brings in all the biggest franchise stars for interviews. While this show has a large fan base, it may be held back by its affiliation with the show’s producers – former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay stepped down as co-host merely months after host Chris Harrison’s controversial comments defending contestant Rachel Kirkconnel in light of her offensive posts.
For Current Events: “Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay”
Former Bachelorette Rachel Lindsay has broken new ground in the franchise many times, from being the first Black lead to being one of only three Bachelorettes to marry their picks to being an outspoken advocate. Naturally, the attorney is a brilliant host as she teams up with Van Lathan to discuss important topics such as current events and pop culture centered around the Black community.
Must-listen episode: “Rachel Sounds Off on Chris Harrison’s Problematic ‘Extra’ Interview and Apology” gives a powerful firsthand account of the controversial conversation that led to the end of Chris Harrison’s career as the franchise's host.
Best Unexpected Combination: “Click Bait”
Despite being linked to the franchise itself as an official “Bachelor Nation'' network podcast, “Click Bait” brings both entertainment and candidness to the table. The show features the surprising combination of former Bachelorette and current “The Bachelorette” co-host Tayshia Adams, two time “Bachelor in Paradise” favorite Grocery Story Joe Amabile and current “Bachelor in Paradise” contestant Natasha Parker. The hosts play off of each other well to create a lively show approaching click bait topics and Bachelor news from intriguing angles.
Must-listen episode: “Joe and Natasha React to ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Premiere; Deandra Joins” provides a unique take on the premiere of this year’s “Bachelor in Paradise” season as it’s hosted by two of the season’s stars.
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