No matter where I go this summer, down the street or across the continent to visit family, I use podcasts as a way to keep up to date with what is going on around the world, and that includes - in the Netherlands. And many of these podcasts are actually in English, produced by the wonderful publicly funded Radio Netherlands.

RN has a long tradition as a broadcaster on regular radio, not to mention streaming live via internet. But I've only come to know them through podcasts, as I listen when I'm on a train or a plane or riding my bike somewhere.

Besides the news, my two favorite programs, which I wanted to recommend to you are Amsterdam Forum and The State We're In.

Amsterdam Forum is a weekly program that lines up diverse guests to talk about topics that not only effect the Netherlands but also people around the world. That said, they do an especially good job on topics relating to the Netherlands.

The State We're In is a program that focuses on human rights around the world. Hosted by a former classmate of mine from the University of Amsterdam, the program covers alot of news you won't often hear about on the big news sites, and they do it with a great amount of care and detail.

Now go forth and subscribe, whether you're already here or planning to come visit, Radio Netherlands podcasts will allow you to tap into the pulse of things that matter in this country.