The Competition - Podcast Rankings and reviews

This podcast is incredible journalism and storytelling, especially for anyone who was ever a teenage girl or has one in their life (parents, aunts, uncles, teachers, coaches...). It offers a fascinating look at teen girls today and the experiences that shape them.

Here's why you should listen:

Compelling stories: Shima Oliaee, the host, does an amazing job capturing the behind-the-scenes world of this program and the 50 high school seniors who come in from across the country to be part of it. You'll feel like you're right there!

Relatable and insightful: Explores the challenges and triumphs of being a young woman today

Broad appeal: This podcast is about female empowerment, navigating adolescence, and the pressures faced by young women today.

Balanced perspective: The show features a diverse range of voices and experiences, making it relatable and thought-provoking.

Addictive listening: This is a deep dive into the complexities of growing up while at the same time being humorous, entertaining, and, well, highly addictive. The storytelling is so good, you'll want to binge the whole thing!

Thank me later :)

I have had the privilege of experiencing other podcasts by the writer and presenter Shima Oliaee. This podcast along with the others she has produced have been full of heartwarming messages. Her ability to address human rights while delivering in a sincere and naturally human/vulnerable way is so refreshing. She represents everything beautiful about the future of podcasts.

This is some riveting audio. I listened to the first few episodes with ads and then had to start a Wondery+ trial because I couldn’t stand the suspense. Seriously considering going back to the first ep and listening all over again. Shima is an A++++ storyteller with insight, heart, and compassion. Her producers are terrific, and the competitors are compelling. No spoilers but I was on the edge of my seat as they grappled with a life changing day within a life changing week.

Such a joyful yet heartbreaking show. I do leave each episode with hope. Shima has done a fantastic job showing what it is like to live in America through this competition. These girls are so genuine, vulnerable and so relatable. Thank you for giving them voices. I cannot wait for the final episode and truly for Shima’s next project.