HODINKEE Podcasts - Podcast Rankings and reviews

Don’t get me wrong, Steven was a great host and I enjoyed the show occasionally. Now that James has taken over, the vibe is really different. He connects all the guests and you get a sense they’re all really enjoying it. It’s now a must-listen. Bravo.

I tried to like this podcast after listening to a few episodes, but it was just too hard to stay engaged. HODINKEE has had some good video content in the past, but even that has gotten worse, with many hosts and guests sounding unrelatable and egotistical. There are so many better podcasts and bloggers out there who are more relatable and easy to listen to. Another major issue is how bad the audio engineering is on this podcast. They really need to hire somebody who knows how to use compression, because they talk so quietly, to a point where you can't hear them, and then they talk so loud That my speakers in my car crackle. They need someone who knows how to use compression so their highs and lows in volume get more leveled out. That alone made this unbearable to listen to.

My favorite episodes are those with Hodinkee staff only. Interview episodes can be hit or miss, but it is nice when the guest is someone I’ve never heard of and I’m pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable the conversation is. I also really like the inside the industry discussions.

Not sure why HODINKEE radio can’t just be the editors talking watches? I love hearing what the editors think. I have been following HODINKEE closely since 2009. The editors all have their own perspective and brand of taste which I will really enjoy! Seriously love them. When they talk together, their insights are 2nd to none.

The host seems more excited about talking about fashion and media than about watches themselves. Too many episodes are just interviews of fancy people. I don’t mind personality driven episodes, but I’d rather hear long interviews with watch collectors, designers, and makers than with other people in the world of media, fashion, or anything. I also wish they would bring a little more honest criticism to their coverage of watches. They seem so careful not to say anything that might alienate their sponsors or other watch brands, and that is a shame. The watch world would be so much better if we had more media outlets that were willing to take on difficult issues, call out bad watches and bad watch marketing, and speak with a courageous and honest voice.

The first year or so was amazing, now the show seems very repetitive and I’m sensing a creeping political undertone which is grating. Still the show is at its strongest when the whole team is together after watch launches. Maybe they can get back to more of that.