Parenthood is often portrayed through milestones.
First words.
First steps.
Birthday parties.
School photos.
But the reality is usually far more complicated.
It’s filled with unexpected challenges, difficult decisions, moments of joy, and questions that rarely have simple answers.
That’s exactly what The Longest Shortest Time has explored since its debut.
Hosted by Hillary Frank, the award-winning podcast shares honest, deeply personal stories about parenthood, family, and reproductive health. What began as one mother’s search for connection has grown into one of the most respected storytelling podcasts in the parenting space.
This month, Blubrry is proud to recognize The Longest Shortest Time as our Podcaster of the Month.
A Podcast Born From Real Life
The story behind the podcast begins with Hillary Frank herself.
After experiencing a difficult childbirth and recovery in 2010, she wanted a place where new parents could share experiences that often went unspoken.
What started as a personal project quickly became something much larger.
Listeners began writing in with their own stories—sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, but always deeply honest.
Over time, those conversations shaped a podcast that became known for exploring the surprising realities of creating, raising, and caring for other human beings.
Conversations That Go Beyond Parenting
Although parenting is the heart of the show, The Longest Shortest Time covers topics that extend far beyond raising children.
Throughout the years, listeners have heard thoughtful conversations about:
- Trans pregnancy
- Infertility and fertility struggles
- Working mom discrimination
- Reproductive health
- Family relationships
- The sex lives of parents
- Perimenopause
The show has also featured conversations with people who chose not to become parents, demonstrating that discussions about family, identity, and reproductive health affect everyone—not just mothers and fathers.
Every episode approaches these subjects with empathy, curiosity, and careful storytelling.
Storytelling That Connects
Some podcasts focus on advice.
Others focus on interviews.
The Longest Shortest Time focuses on stories.
Each episode invites listeners into real experiences that often challenge assumptions and encourage understanding.
Rather than presenting simple answers, the podcast creates space for honest conversations about subjects that many people struggle to discuss openly.
That thoughtful approach has helped build a loyal audience over the years.
Recognized for Its Impact
The podcast’s commitment to meaningful storytelling has earned widespread recognition.
Among its many honors, The Longest Shortest Time was named one of Time’s 100 Best Podcasts of All Time—a reflection of both its editorial quality and its lasting influence on podcasting.
Its success comes not from chasing trends, but from consistently telling stories that resonate on a deeply human level.
A Return With Renewed Purpose
After taking a hiatus, Hillary Frank relaunched the podcast in 2025 with a renewed focus.
The new season continues exploring parenthood and reproductive health while reflecting on the changing social landscape following the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
The result is a podcast that feels just as relevant today as it did when it first launched more than a decade ago.
By continuing to tell stories that are personal, timely, and compassionate, The Longest Shortest Time remains an important voice for listeners navigating family life and the issues surrounding it.
Why It Resonates
What makes The Longest Shortest Time stand out isn’t simply its subject matter.
It’s the honesty.
The podcast doesn’t try to present a perfect version of parenthood.
Instead, it embraces the uncertainty, complexity, and vulnerability that come with raising children and building families.
Those authentic conversations remind listeners that they aren’t alone in their experiences.
Whether someone is a new parent, considering parenthood, or simply interested in thoughtful storytelling, the podcast offers perspectives that are both informative and deeply relatable.
Blubrry’s Podcaster of the Month Spotlight
Blubrry Podcasting is proud to recognize The Longest Shortest Time and Hillary Frank as our Podcaster of the Month.
Through compassionate storytelling and meaningful conversations about parenthood, family, and reproductive health, the podcast continues to create understanding around experiences that often go unheard.
One story at a time.
🎧 Listen to The Longest Shortest Time and discover why honest conversations have made it one of podcasting’s most respected storytelling shows.