The Groove Radio, an independent mixtape podcast created and hosted by New York City-based DJ Suzy Chase, has been named one of The Best Independent Podcasts of 2026 in the Best Music Podcasts category by Ear Worthy. This recognition arrives as the show marks its 20th anniversary, having launched in 2005 as the first mixtape podcast years before algorithmic playlists and music optimization became industry standards.
Ear Worthy highlighted the podcast's distinctive, human-curated approach to music discovery, noting its focus on soul, R&B, and yacht rock playlists. The show provides themed mixtapes and deeper explorations into music that scores life's moments, often featuring guest artists and personal stories. According to the recognition, the podcast aims to deliver good soul music frequently missed on mainstream radio channels.
Over two decades, The Groove Radio has surpassed 8 million lifetime downloads, quietly establishing itself as one of podcasting's earliest pioneers. Its longevity and recognition underscore a growing appreciation for human curation in an increasingly algorithm-driven media landscape. The show's 20th anniversary is being celebrated with a special limited series called TGR Unplugged, which features nine songs paired with nine stories reflecting on how music was discovered before algorithms prioritized optimization over emotional connection.
Listeners can access the podcast through various platforms, including TheGrooveRadio.com, Apple Podcasts, and TuneIn. This recognition from Ear Worthy validates the enduring relevance of personally curated music experiences in a digital age dominated by automated recommendations. The award signals that despite technological advances, there remains significant audience demand for the thoughtful, thematic music programming that The Groove Radio has provided for twenty years.
The implications of this recognition extend beyond a single podcast's achievement. It highlights a potential shift in listener preferences toward more intentional, human-driven content curation across the audio industry. As streaming services increasingly rely on algorithms to predict and shape listening habits, The Groove Radio's success demonstrates an alternative model where expertise, personal narrative, and thematic coherence create value. This could influence how other creators and platforms approach music programming, potentially leading to more diversified discovery methods that balance algorithmic efficiency with human touch.
For the podcasting industry specifically, this award reinforces the viability of independent, niche music programming that builds community through shared musical taste rather than broad algorithmic appeal. The Groove Radio's milestone of 8 million downloads over twenty years shows that sustained, quality content can build substantial audiences without chasing viral trends or optimization metrics. This model offers a blueprint for creators seeking to establish long-term relationships with listeners through consistent, authentic programming.
