Listener sentiment
Sidedoor continues to command near-universal listener enthusiasm, with the most recent ratings — extending through summer 2026 — sustaining the same overwhelmingly positive tone noted in prior periods. Host Lizzie Peabody remains the show's most frequently praised asset; reviewers describe her as warm, charming, and effortlessly engaging, with a delivery that works equally well for commuting, winding down at night, or family listening with children. The podcast's core appeal — unearthing unexpected stories from across the Smithsonian's vast collections, spanning history, science, art, and natural wonders — continues to resonate, with many listeners noting that even topics that initially seem niche turn out to be captivating. Several reviewers describe the show as a comfort listen that educates without feeling burdensome, and a recurring theme is that episodes spark curiosity to explore subjects further or plan Smithsonian visits. The only consistent wishlist items are more frequent episode releases and richer show notes with referenced links. A small number of negative reviews from 2022–2023 criticized the show for incorporating social-justice or politically framed narratives, but this sentiment is entirely absent from the most recent ratings, suggesting the current stretch of episodes has landed well across the audience.
Apple4.8 · 313
Summary generated Aug 9, 2026
